The Original Ultralight Backpacker

When John Muir stepped into the Yosemite backcountry, biographer Amy Marquis noted he traveled alone, carrying "only a tin cup, a handful of tea, a loaf of bread, and a copy of Emerson." If you can keep your pack load that small, feel free to take along a favorite book. You deserve such a luxury.

For more advice: http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/ultralight+backpacking.html