One tip I learned as a Boy Scout is that you can save weight in your backpack by packing multi-purpose tools. For example, why bring the knife that’s part of your slick backpacking utensil set when you’ll also be bringing a pocket knife? What kind of food, for that matter, will you be eating that even requires cutting (unless you’ll be carrying steaks with you).

You can take this tip even further and even eliminate the fork from your mess kit. A spoon can do most anything a fork can, but a fork is no good for eating soup. If you’re more comfortable spearing your food, you can always pick up a spoon-fork combo (or “spork”). Plastic cutlery can help you save weight but make sure whatever you bring is durable.

I probably don’t have to tell you that when backpacking two things are at a premium: space and weight. This trick saves a little of both (and every little bit counts!).

First off, estimate how much toilet paper you’ll need for your trip based on the number of days you’ll be out. The actual amount you bring is really a personal decision but realize you probably don’t need an entire roll for a two night trip.

Now, remove the cardboard roll and squash your toilet paper flat. Now your toilet paper takes up less space since it’s compressed, weighs less without the cardboard roller, and its protected from moisture by the zip lock bag. Perfect!