LighterPack has been the default gear list tool for backpackers, but it's not the only option. Whether you want more features, better mobile experience, or community integration, there's an alternative for you.
1. MyPacks (Best Overall)
Best for: Hikers who want organization, community, and trip integration
MyPacks is the most complete gear management platform available. Unlike LighterPack's simple list approach, MyPacks offers:
- Compartment-based organization – Organize gear by where it goes in your pack
- Community features – Browse public lists, follow hikers, save inspiration
- Trip logging – Connect gear lists to actual hikes
- Interactive maps – See where you and the community have hiked
- Modern design – Beautiful, responsive interface
Pricing: Free tier available, Pro for advanced features
Why choose MyPacks over LighterPack: If you want more than a spreadsheet – community, organization, and trip tracking – MyPacks delivers.
2. Gear Skeptic
Best for: Simple online spreadsheet
Another lightweight option similar to LighterPack with basic list functionality.
Pros: Free, simple
Cons: Limited features, no community
3. Google Sheets / Excel
Best for: Complete customization
Many hikers just use spreadsheets. You have full control over formatting and calculations.
Pros: Free, fully customizable, works offline
Cons: Manual setup, no community, no visual features, no mobile app
4. Notion / Airtable
Best for: Hikers who love databases
Use database tools to build your own gear system with custom fields, views, and relations.
Pros: Extremely flexible, can include images and links
Cons: Significant setup time, no hiking-specific features
5. Pen and Paper
Best for: Minimalists and traditionalists
Sometimes the simplest solution works. Write your list, weigh your items, done.
Pros: No technology needed, works anywhere
Cons: Hard to update, no calculations, can't share
Feature Comparison
| Feature | MyPacks | LighterPack | Spreadsheet | Notion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compartments | ✅ | ❌ | Manual | Manual |
| Community | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Trip Tracking | ✅ | ❌ | Manual | Manual |
| Mobile App | ✅ Web | ✅ Web | ⚠️ | ✅ |
| Images | ✅ | ❌ | Manual | ✅ |
| Free | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Learning Curve | Low | Low | Medium | High |
Our Recommendation
If you're looking for a LighterPack alternative, MyPacks is the clear upgrade. You get everything LighterPack offers plus:
- Compartment organization that matches your actual pack
- A community of hikers to learn from
- Trip logging to track what works
- A modern, visual interface
LighterPack solved the gear list problem in 2015. MyPacks solves it for 2026.