Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear: Ultralight Backpacking Gear with a Purpose

Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear is a Michigan-based brand creating ultralight, durable backpacking gear for serious hikers. From customizable backpacks to fanny packs and shoulder pouches, their handcrafted gear is built to withstand the backcountry.

Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear: Ultralight Backpacking Gear with a Purpose
The CTUG SwitchPack is a favorite among thru-hikers—lightweight, weather-resistant, and perfect for keeping essentials close at hand.

If you’re looking for ultralight backpacking gear that’s tough, thoughtfully designed, and built to handle serious miles, Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear (CTUG) is a brand worth knowing. This small, Michigan-based company is run by a team of avid backpackers who understand what it takes to create reliable gear for the backcountry.

 Back view of a hiker wearing a colorful Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear backpack while walking through a green forest trail.
Chicken Tramper’s colorful ultralight backpack in action on a lush forest trail—durable, functional, and made for big miles.

About Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear

Chicken Tramper was founded by a group of passionate thru-hikers who wanted to create ultralight gear that could withstand the wear and tear of long-distance hiking without sacrificing comfort. They specialize in handcrafting durable, minimalist gear using high-quality materials like Dyneema and X-Pac. From backpacks and pouches to fanny packs and accessories, each product is meticulously designed and rigorously tested on the trail.

What Makes Chicken Tramper Stand Out?

  • Handcrafted Quality: Every item is made in Michigan by a small team of backpacking enthusiasts.
  • Customization Options: Personalize your gear with custom colors, add-ons, and features.
  • Sustainability Focus: CTUG is committed to using durable materials that extend the lifespan of their products, reducing waste over time.
  • Community Driven: The brand is highly involved in the hiking community, frequently collaborating with hikers for gear feedback and testing.
 Close-up of the Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear Hiker Hairbrush with wooden bristles and included black carry pouch on a wooden surface.
The Chicken Tramper Hiker Hairbrush—compact, durable, and perfect for taming trail hair without weighing down your pack.

1. Ultralight Backpacks
CTUG’s ultralight backpacks are designed to be minimalist yet functional, with options for both frameless and framed setups. They’re made with X-Pac and Dyneema to keep weight low while ensuring durability on long-distance hikes.

2. Fanny Packs
The Chicken Tramper fanny pack is a favorite among thru-hikers for its practicality and versatility. Available in various colors and sizes, it’s perfect for carrying snacks, small cameras, and other essentials without adding bulk.

3. Shoulder Strap Pouches
Stay organized on the go with CTUG’s shoulder strap pouches. These compact, weather-resistant pouches attach easily to your backpack straps, keeping items like a phone, GPS, or snacks within easy reach.

4. Hiker Hairbrush
A quirky yet functional offering, the Hiker Hairbrush is a compact brush designed specifically for long hair. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and a favorite for hikers who want to keep their hair tangle-free on the trail. The Hiker Hairbrush is one of our picks for Best Gear of 2025!

5. Custom Gear Options
CTUG offers custom gear builds, allowing hikers to choose colors, materials, and features tailored to their needs. This is a fantastic option for those seeking a truly unique piece of gear that matches their hiking style.

Why Choose Chicken Tramper?

If you’re looking for ultralight gear that’s thoughtfully designed, ethically made, and proven to withstand the rigors of the backcountry, Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear is a brand to consider. Their focus on durable materials, handcrafted quality, and community connection makes them a standout in the world of cottage backpacking gear.

 Austin and Nathan, co-founders of Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear, smiling in hiking gear near a scenic river.
Austin and Nathan, the founders of Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear, bring trail-tested experience and genuine passion to every product they design.

Explore Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear and find your next go-to piece of ultralight backpacking equipment!


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