The ‘Headlamp Killer’ Everyone Is Talking About

Do you really need a headlamp for backpacking… or is there a better option? In this video, I test a tiny ultralight mini flashlight against one of the most popular backpacking headlamps, the *Nitecore NU25*, to see if a headlamp is truly essential, or if this small light can actually replace it. Headlamps have been standard backpacking gear for decades, but they’re not perfect. They can be uncomfortable, overkill for camp chores, and heavier than many backpackers realize. On this trip, I tried backpacking without relying on a headlamp and used a minimalist mini flashlight instead to see how it performed for real-world tasks like setting up camp, cooking, organizing gear, and moving around at night. This video isn’t about hype or gimmicks—it’s about *real backpacking use*. I’ll walk through: When a headlamp actually makes sense When it might be unnecessary The pros and cons of headlamps vs mini flashlights Ultralight considerations for backpackers and fastpackers What I’ll personally carry going forward If you’re building an ultralight backpacking kit*, rethinking your gear, or just curious whether a headlamp is overrated, this video will help you decide what works best for *your style of backpacking. 🔗 Gear Mentioned in This Video Mini Flashlight (Affiliate): 👉 [https://amzn.to/3YSM92m](https://amzn.to/3YSM92m) Nitecore NU25 Headlamp (Affiliate): 👉 [https://amzn.to/4aE42Jr](https://amzn.to/4aE42Jr) 🎒 START BACKPACKING WITHOUT OVERTHINKING IT If you’re new to backpacking, or just tired of trying to piece everything together....start here: 👉 FREE Beginner Backpacking Starter Kit Simple, practical tools to help you plan your first trip and actually get out there https://yourtrailbuddy.com/planninggu... 👉 My Personal Gear Lists See exactly what I use and how I build my setups (budget → lightweight → ultralight) https://yourtrailbuddy.com/mygearlists 👉 The Complete Beginner Backpacking System ($19) A step-by-step system that shows you exactly how to plan, pack, and make good decisions on the trail, without wasting money or overcomplicating things Includes: ✔ 152-page guide ✔ First Trip System (planning + quick start) ✔ Beginner Gear System ✔ Trail Food System ✔ Backpacking Field Guide (real problems + solutions) https://yourtrailbuddy.com/thecomplet... 💡 You can absolutely learn everything for free here on the channel. This just puts it all in one place, in the right order, so it actually makes sense. ⚠️ Some links are affiliate links, which help support the channel at no extra cost to you. I only share gear I actually test and use. This content is for informational and educational purposes only. Outdoor activities involve inherent risks. Always assess your own abilities and conditions before making decisions in the backcountry. #backpacking #ultralightbackpacking #headlamp #campinggear #backpackinggear #ultralightgear #hikinggear #campinglight #backpackinglight #nitecorenu25 #headlampvsflashlight #minimalistbackpacking #thruhiking #fastpacking #yourtrailbuddy