If you've spent any time in backpacking forums, you've seen LighterPack links everywhere. It's been the default gear list tool for years. But is it still the best option in 2026? Let's compare MyPacks vs LighterPack feature by feature.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | MyPacks | LighterPack |
|---|---|---|
| Compartment Organization | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Multiple Pack Lists | ✅ Unlimited | ✅ Yes |
| Community Sharing | ✅ Full social features | ⚠️ Link sharing only |
| Trip Planning | ✅ Built-in | ❌ No |
| Hike Logging | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Interactive Maps | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Mobile Experience | ✅ Responsive design | ⚠️ Basic mobile |
| Gear Images | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Price Tracking | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Free Tier | ✅ Generous | ✅ Free |
Where LighterPack Falls Short
No Compartment Organization
LighterPack gives you categories, but it doesn't understand how your pack actually works. Where does your stove go? What's in your hip belt pockets? What about your shoulder strap pouches?
MyPacks lets you organize gear by compartment – main pack, brain lid, hip belt, shoulder straps, and external pockets. This mirrors how you actually pack and makes it easier to find things on trail.
No Community Features
LighterPack is essentially a spreadsheet with a shareable link. There's no way to:
- Discover other hikers' setups
- Follow experienced backpackers
- Get inspiration from community packs
- See what gear is trending
MyPacks has a full community where you can browse public gear lists, follow hikers, save lists to your wishlist, and get inspired by what others are carrying.
No Trip Integration
Your gear list exists in isolation on LighterPack. But gear choices depend on the trip – a weekend overnighter needs different things than a two-week thru-hike.
MyPacks connects gear to trips. Log your hikes, attach your packing list, and build a history of what worked and what didn't.
Dated Interface
LighterPack was built years ago and it shows. The interface is functional but uninspiring. No images, minimal visual hierarchy, and a mobile experience that feels like an afterthought.
MyPacks was designed for 2026 with a modern, responsive interface that looks great on any device.
What LighterPack Does Well
To be fair, LighterPack has its strengths:
- Completely free – No paywalls for basic features
- Fast and simple – Minimal learning curve
- Established – Widely recognized in the community
- Chart visualizations – Good weight breakdown charts
Why Hikers Are Switching to MyPacks
1. Better Organization
The compartment system in MyPacks changes how you think about packing. Instead of a flat list, you see your gear as it actually sits in your pack.
2. Community Discovery
Find hikers doing similar trips. See what gear people use on the PCT. Get inspired by ultralight setups. MyPacks is a social platform, not just a spreadsheet.
3. Trip Logging
Track every hike with photos, notes, and the gear list you used. Over time, you build a personal database of what works.
4. Visual Gear Library
Add images to your gear. See your kit at a glance. MyPacks feels like browsing your actual gear closet.
5. Integrated Experience
Gear lists, trip planning, hike logging, and community – all in one place. No more bouncing between apps and spreadsheets.
The Bottom Line
LighterPack is a solid free tool that does one thing: gear lists. If that's all you need, it works.
But if you want compartment organization, community features, trip integration, and a modern experience, MyPacks is the clear choice.
Ready to upgrade your gear list game? Try MyPacks free and see the difference.