When you need to transport heavy gear across snow, you have two main options: carry it on your back or pull it on a sled. Each has advantages depending on terrain and conditions.
Backpacks are the traditional method and work best on varied terrain with hills, tight trails, and areas where maneuverability is needed. Your hands stay free for balance, pole use, and navigation.
Advantages: Better on uneven terrain, uphills and downhills, tight trails through trees, and when you need maximum maneuverability.
Disadvantages: Limited capacity, all weight on your body, more fatiguing over long distances with heavy loads.
Sleds allow you to haul significantly more weight with less physical strain. They work best on flat to gently rolling terrain with adequate snow cover.
Purpose-built pulk sleds have rigid poles that attach to a hip belt or harness, allowing you to control the sled on downhills. They track well and are designed for backcountry use.
A children's plastic sled or toboggan can be adapted with a rope harness for hauling gear. While not as refined as commercial pulks, they can be very effective and much less expensive.
DIY Sled Tips: Use a sturdy plastic sled (not a flimsy snow saucer). Drill holes in the front for rope attachment. Create a simple harness that connects to your waist belt. Load heavy items low and toward the front. Secure everything with a cargo net or straps — you don't want gear scattered if the sled tips.
Lean slightly forward and use a steady pace. On downhills, rigid poles help prevent the sled from running into you. On uphills, shorter steps maintain traction. Wide turns prevent the sled from cutting corners and going off-trail.
Whether using a pack or sled, keep weight centered and balanced. In a sled, heavy items should be low and forward. In a pack, heavy items go close to your back between shoulders and hips. Consider splitting your load between a lighter daypack and a sled for the best of both approaches.