When venturing into the wild, a lightweight haversack is key, but first, let’s discuss the materials they are made from. While high-quality leather looks and feels great, it’s generally too heavy for a lightweight haversack. Polyester is light and affordable but often lacks the robustness needed for bushcraft. The top materials for lightweight bushcraft haversacks are:
1. Waxed Canvas
- Pros: Extremely durable, develops a rugged patina over time, and is highly water-resistant. It’s tough enough for the most challenging conditions.
- Cons: The heaviest of the three materials and not very breathable.
2. Oilcloth
- Pros: Lightweight, excellent water resistance, and easy to clean. Perfect for keeping your gear dry.
- Cons: Slightly less durable than waxed canvas and potentially flammable.
3. Nylon
- Pros: Lightweight, strong, and flame-resistant. Cordura 500D is a heavier-duty variant that’s exceptionally durable and water-resistant.
- Cons: Less water-resistant than waxed canvas or oilcloth unless treated. Can melt and drip under high heat, posing burn risks.
For minimalist bushcraft haversack, consider these lightweight options:
- Helikon-Tex Bushcraft Satchel
- Material: Cordura 500D (heavy-duty nylon)
- Weight: 1.06 lb (500g)
- Features: Multiple pockets and compartments, large main pocket with a heavy-duty zipper, side attachments for tools, and a solid shoulder strap with quick-release buckles.
- Price: $59 – $73
- Campcraft Outdoors XL Haversack
- Material: Waxed canvas
- Weight: 0.85 lb (390g)
- Features: Adjustable shoulder strap, extra-large single pouch, heavy-duty stitching, hand waxed for water resistance.
- Price: Around $45
- FJÄLLRÄVEN Greenland Shoulder Bag
- Material: G-1000 (poly-cotton, waterproof, and weather-resistant)
- Weight: 0.64 lb (290g)
- Features: Large main compartment, smaller sub-compartments for organization. Wax supplied by the company for added waterproofing.
- Price: Around $135
For oilcloth haversacks, visit Etsy. The main advantage of oilcloth haversacks is how lightweight they are. Some are in the range of 6-12 ounces! Happy hunting. For classes on survival and bushcraft, go to my shop tab, click on the class you want to attend, pick the date that works for you and go to the checkout. “I’ll see you in the wild!”