I think that if you bug out in an Urban environment, you should look to rooftops. Using a ladder to get ip on a roof, then pull it up. It provides you the high ground and allows you water capture. You can also rest in roof stairwell enclosures. It will allow you to hear someone coming up the stairwell. Thanks for your great videos!
Great comment ! Nelson R. heard stories of young kids sleeping on the roof tops of buildings in Chicago with hot humid summers. Or on the beach of Lake Michigan to stay cool. (First half of the 1900's/before A/C) tjl
I noticed that your egg crate pad is a full body length of 14 folds. I've had these. Reading the (ultra)light hiking/camping booklets, they mention to cut off the bottom portion below the knees, as the knees to feet are not necessarily needing a pad. I would instead consider moving the pad headward from the knees, and then folding the excess at the head for a head pillow or head-shoulder pillow 2 folds long. From vid 9:39, it looks like 10 of 14 is your body size, and 4 folds moved headward would give you a single stack of 6 for the head-neck, or a 3 ply fold 2 folds long for the head and shoulders. The folds could even be 4-3-2-1 folded in a decline from the head and shoulders down to the back.
+John Lord I've been thinking about doing this. I thought that the spare piece could be used as a seat cushion, with attachments for optional reconnecting to the main pad. Thanks for the comment!
On the pad, I've found that I really only need to protect my core when on the ground, so you can probably get away with cutting the pad in half. As long as your shoulders and hips are on the pad, you should be comfortable. I've made two pads out of one this way. Great vid as always. Been following you since the beginning.
wondering if you've been able to test your system in winter yet? do you add more for winter? in MN we get to -45degrees regularly and while those emergency bivvys save space, they just don't cut it... I guess it might help you survive a bit longer lol, but you'll probably die sooner than if you had more. if you do a winter test, I'd really love to see. I've seen & done some winter tests with the SOL ones, but never the Go one you have. Thanks again for a nice video with documents (really appreciate you take the time to do those). ATB
+AL Genaro Seattle is no where near MN weather wise. Heck, we get a dusting of snow on the ground and it becomes a major news story. What works in one area might not work in another. Even our popular mountain areas don't get that cold. Your example perfectly shows why it is so important to know your area and prepare accordingly. -45...ouch that is cold.
Forgot in Seattle. Haha, so true. Yes it is. Been -30 with the wind chill the last few days. My wood stove has been working hard in my poorly insulated shack. Thought about testing out the new underquilt I made for my hammock this weekend, but nope :-P too cold to mess around for fun... I just wish winter could be lighter for me without buying special lightweight equipment. Darn my area lol
This is my first comment. I have been looking at your youtube videos for a few years now. You have the best pedagogical approach, and very good information. Since i live in Sweden i cannot buy all i have seen here and want to have. But i can find alternatives. I also agree with your idea of bugging in. You have been giving me some very good ideas for my getting home bag and my pocket organisers.
+Johan Bertilsson Thank you so much for the comment, Johan!! I'm glad you enjoy my content. That is so cool. Please keep me posted if you ever need help obtaining gear.
Another nice video. So many of these decisions depend on where you are and what season it is. I like your tent option and are also sensitive to length as I am 6'5" tall. I found the SOL emergency bivy and carry that for 3 seasons here in the Southern Illinois area. I also use a synthetic 'lid' from a Sierra Designs sleep system. That lid has an adequate foot box and the rest of the lid is deployable like a blanket. I have see now they are marketing the concept separately as 'alpine blankets'. A good choice to minimize weight & bulk but maximize warmth provided.
Hello, I was watching a few reviews on the trifecta and have been very impressed. I really like the idea of using this as a primary sleeping bag but I had some concerns using it as such. I was wanting your opinion on what I might be able to use this bag. Let me give some background to explain. I live in southeast Texas. It is wet and warm. My financial resources are very limited but I want to do some backpacking a camping. I have been looking at multiple items and wondered what I actually need. It looked to me like I need a sleeping bag, a quality tarp, and a hammock or a tent. The thing about the sleeping bag is that I don't need a hot sleeping bag. It is currently (as an example) 11:15 PM in late October and the weather channel says it is 75. The low for the next week is 55 with most nights not dropping below 65 without a hard rain to drive down the temperature. With my weather, it seems like most of the time, I need a less heat retention than most people would need for a night in the woods. So my thought is to use the trifecta as my primary sleeping bag with still getting to use the tarp option as a light weight, get out of the weather, option for day hikes. I do have a few concerns with using it as such and since you plan to use it as your main stay sleeping bag for your emergency bug out bag, I should ask you. My first concern is durability. I get that the trifecta is more than capable of taking on an emergency role but is it rugged enough to take on a primary use role? My second concern seems silly to ask but I will due to the fact that it will directly impact my sleep. I get that the trifecta will be more noisy than a "traditional" sleeping bag but is it too distracting? I realize that the question is subjective but it is a worry so I will still ask. My third concern is how breathable (and soft) is the material? Obviously, waterproof inhibits breathability but my worry is that while the trifecta might work just fine (once again) in an emergency situation, it might not have the breathability or comfort necessary as the primary sleeping bag. I really like the idea of possibly using a liner and that should help but I am unsure of that as well since I want to be able to utilize the full length (at 6'4") and width of the bag. My fourth concern is how well the trifecta will work in a hammock system. At some point (after saving all I can) I would like to get a hammock system since trees in in southeast Texas are plentiful but dry ground is not. I even have the hammock system picked out. Unfortunately, the Warbonnet Blackbird XLC is a long way off from my budget but I would like to get something that would work with my dream hammock. I guess what it comes down to is, how practical of an idea is this for my situation in your opinion? Would I be better off buying a light sleeping bag or the Trifecta? Thank you in advance for both your time and your honest opinion. In Good Faith, Michael
By far the best and most informative videos I've come across! I've just started prepping, and having 2 children of my own , your videos have helped me out on where and how to start. Great work
Here's a simple pillow idea: just bring along a pillowcase, then turn your jacket inside out and stuff it into the pillowcase. It's comfy, and very lightweight and compact when not in use.
Another EXCELLENT vid/tutorial! Your PDF is awesome - as usual. I really appreciate the amount of thought that you put into the content & research for your channel ... making it one of my favorites - if not the BEST channel. It's crazy how deep my own notes get after watching one of your vids. Thx.
+mark showers Wow! Thank you SO much, Mark! I try to provide as much information as I can in these type of videos. I'll keep cranking out new content as efficiently as I can.
Another thing to consider instead of the 4 way valve wrench is a Gator grip socket. It has a huge amount of variable wrench options in a single socket that's about the size of a spark plug socket and can save you space and weight, of course you'll need a socket wrench too as well.
just a thought, why not use a thick yoga mat? I saw one at the store marshalls today and honestly I checked it out and it would work as a sleeping pad!
Looks like you landed with a light/compact set up to meet your requirements. Test the aLOKSAK as a pillow. I've used it as a pillow, but its only drawback is noise. That may not be a problem for you. Always good to preflight your gear before you need it. Especially in a disaster scenario. Great as always
Good system. The only thing I would add is that, with the locksack as a pillow, any air-filled pad especially without foam like an inflatable thermarest, will quickly take on the temperature of ambient air. This will make for a very cold pillow if it's cold out. Adding more insulation on top like a thick sweatshirt should be enough to keep your head warm. Good video. :)
Urban prepper, for your pillow prep have you consider the bladder inside a box of wine? They can be washed out, are very durable, inflate and deflate in seconds and can be used as an additional water carrier when needed. They are inexpensive and like the bag in your video can be covered in a jumper or t-shirt for comfort. Keep up the good work. I love the vids
Nice job TUP. I've struggled for years with a good shelter system, and truly have yet to implement one in my gear due to size and weight constrictions. I guess it's something I feel comfortable enough "improvising" when it comes time to implement, but as always, you've provided me with some good food for though! Thanks for another great video!
+Yosef621 I'm working on a dedicated video for this, but I need the weather to get colder up here. I'm still trying to figure out the best way of measuring warmth accurately for the video, besides just saying whether I am cold or not. Any recommendations?
Neat idea with by the tyvek! If you crumple the tyvek and add a lot of creases it becomes "stealthier" by decreasing the sound it makes. Something simple you could do to it to improve opsec. Cheers
+Wandering Beast Thanks for watching, Beast! It's slightly larger than my last design, but slightly lighter too due to the cot replacement. The tent compresses small. In this video it took me several takes on the tent scene, so it probably looked larger than what it will end up being for long term storage.
Jil from LokSak 💜 Awesome video Cliff. I like many of your gear choices. Have you tested the bivi and sleeping bag liner yet? You might find that they're more effective if you're only wearing your undies. Remember your body heats the sleep system, the sleep system doesn't heat you. Thanks for sharing!
I really enjoy watching your videos! I have almost mirrored you style of prepping since I live in an Urban area here in Tulsa, OK. I went out and bought a Kelty Redwing 44 to store everything in. When will you be doing a video showing how you pack everything in, along with the sleeping pad? Thanks for the info, I know a lot of work and planning goes into these vids!
+Jonathan James Thanks for the support, Jonathan! That video will be posted as soon as all of the modules are up. It's definitely like playing Prepping Tetris!
termarest sleeping pad is awesome. now it's my favourite pad. yellow color is crazy. I took brown-green color pad without silver (brown\green termarest is not so warm like silwer\yellow but looks better :-))))
I like the idea of using a liner with a bivi, however I tested it out one night and found that my body heat created a lot of condensation in the bivi bag. I also use the thermarest zlite sol for backcountry camping and really love it!!
I love your videos! Have you looked at the British Army Jungle sleeping bag as a sleep option? Compresses really small and would be a great addition, inexpensive too!
+jamie Outdoors Thanks Jamie! I've looked at them, but I read that they were mainly for 2 seasons. What do you think of them? Worthwhile? They certainly look promising!
You mentioned a review of the Lightheart Duo, but I couldn’t find one on your page. Did you like it? In the market for shelter beyond tarp and sleeping bag and debating a tent? (I’m 6’4 ” and live in New England so have to consider winter)
+TheUrbanPrepper My grandson once fell asleep with his head on an unopenned bag of Doritos. Caution: Doritos may not support those of us with fat heads. ; )
Something to consider about wearing clothes to bed. Most sleep systems I've used worked better the less I had on. Some of that stuff will reflect enough heat and not allow your body heat to heat up the air space in your bivy. Maybe do a sleep test with and without being fully dressed? I definitely recommend the wool cap on the head though. Also, consider the much loved "woobie" as a nice edition to your "what you sleep in" strategy. Super lightweight, super comfy, and most of all the ultimate "blankey" lol...
+The random Masked guy I can fit my small family of 4 in this tent. Next year or the year after I will need to get a slightly larger tent, once the kids are bigger.
Hey Man, you do a great job with your videos. They are put together very well, explained very well, and are concise as to not waste the viewers time. Also, how you do your videos in segments of a complete system is a terrific idea. One question: living in Seattle, your climate is a bit wet and can get cold. I am concerned about your bivy/liner system. Do you feel that would be enough in the cold and snowy times, or do you have an alternate setup for that type of situation? Great tent though. I live on the East Coast in Nova Scotia. Though your tent and closed cell matt would be great, I don't think someone here could make it through the night with just the bivy and liner and fare well through the night. Just a question. I don't mean to take anything away from your system. Cheers. Be well.
+joe cardio Joe what you wanna do is look at the items on their web page, get the technical specs -- weight and temperature ratings, in particular. Then you can make a reasonably safe assumption about what is necessary for the environment you live in. The colder the environment, the more weight you have to sacrifice for this shelter component. Sounds to me like you would need a good lightweight, cold weather sleeping bag for Nova Scotia. Good luck!
+HonoluluTita I don't have a store link. You support me by watching my videos and participating in the comment section though! Thanks for thinking about me about this. I appreciate it. ~Cliff
+16.5toHeaven I'm not sure. I was driving on the freeway and it just blew. I don't think I hit anything. The two front tires needed to be replaced. Thankfully I was driving in the slow lane when it happened and was able to take care of everything safely.
TheUrbanPrepper Just glad everything's fine. I checked my spare after I saw that post, and realized I didn't replace it yet, been nearly a year now. Stuffed the tire space with all sorts of gear and thought I had a spare ready to go, lol.
Great video, as usual, Cliff. A couple of questions: 1) Do you, or have you in the past, included or tested any of the lightweight Mylar blankets and bags that are often included in commercial survival kits? 2) Do you include your vehicle, or vehicles in general, as part of your shelter plan? I'm thinking in particular, under circumstances where you might want the extra security a closed vehicle might provide, or protection from weather extremes that a tent or field expedient shelter might not protect you from so well. Always look forward to your videos.
+Whoozerdaddy Great questions! I definitely think that you should leverage your vehicle with your BOB and GHB (e.g., Prepping Circles video). I think a vehicle would be the perfect place to store heavier items like a wool blanket and extra water. I think there could definitely be circumstances when sleeping in your vehicle would be much better than in a tent. Condensation will need to be something to keep in mind. I have tested the fancier mylar style blankets like the Bivvy's you've seen in my videos. I don't think I've slept outside with ONLY a survival kit style mylar blanket. We actually use them more for insulation, like on windows, during power outages and extreme cold weather. They work great for that! It would be fun to do more testing on this subject to see how the various models compare with each other!
TheUrbanPrepper I remember when the Space Blanket came out, many years ago. I had one for probably 15 years until I literally wore it out. That Mylar is great stuff. Totally agree on the wool army blanket, too. They have been a staple of warmth in my family for over half a century. I always have one in the car for the exact reasons you mention. They're warm, even when wet, dense so they don't blow around in a breeze and extremely fire resistant. Thanks for the reply!
+Whoozerdaddy Great history! Mrs. UP absolutely LOVES our ugly, scratchy, used military wool blanket. She always wants it with us when we are going to be outside in the cold.
TheUrbanPrepper I was watching this video again and I was wondering if you are using the same type of set up for your family? Your wife and son. I know that you have stuff set up for them. I am setting up a family kit and am still working on it. Thanks! -Jerome
Great video ! For the Wool Blanket do a video on the Blanket Pin that is multi use ! The Blanket Pin can be packed with your Fire Kit ! Just picked up a Poncho/Tarp that is Rip-Stop Nylon, Grommets and Double-Sided Snaps And when combined with those MSR Aluminium "T" Stakes (you showed) and 100 feet of Para Cord then you have emergency Shelter for the Day Pack ! The only con is that the Ponch/Tarp says "Made in China" ! Thank you for the video ! tjl
Have you thought of putting a wool blanket in your Loksak and squeezing the air out then sealing it. It wouldn't help with weight but it should help with real estate.
Ah, thanks for the philosophy at the beginning of the video! It always puts your gear choices into context, and really helps me to understand how and why you're implementing your kit. Do you keep a brush or anything like that on hand to clean out your tent, or does the tent have a porch-like vestibule to keep things covered but outside the inner part of the tent? From camping, I know that if I don't keep my shoes outside the tent, I track in all kinds of crud.
+Whitfield Parham Hmmm... I include a brush when we go family camping, but I never thought about including one in my BOB. Do you have a specific brush recommendation? I wonder if there is something that could be multi-purpose. The tent does have a vestibule, but I didn't really show it in this video. This is definitely something I'll need to think about more. Thanks for the comment as always, Whitfield!
You're welcome, broseph! I don't have any recommendations particularly, since we just used a cheap dollar store brush and dustbin combo. You could probably get by with some bandanas tied tightly against the end of a stick.
+Whitfield Parham I'll definitely think about this idea more! Perhaps it would just be best to have it on hand nearby (e.g., vehicle) to save on size and weight.
All good tips and how to's again.I recently had a self inflating sleeping pad puncture and deflate due to a tiny stick. So that shiny egg carton style is perfect.Also - I like keeping a spare set of clothes in a cloth sack or camo pillow case then I can use it as a pillow for me if im not feeling well, l or a guest thats not use to Roughing it.
Your video is well laid out, especially if you watch the concept video about shelter before hand. What would be nice is to see all your families gear in the tent with you. As reference for tent size and such. But either way, kudos on such well laid out videos.
haha. that's crazy. I stayd in this hotel that's somewhere in front on him in mid april.. I member that back ground.. and on his right hand side should be the needle.?
+R.A.S. Tactical All of the information for the items is included in the PDF link. The camo ultralight tent was ~$315. Definitely had to save up a little, but I'm really happy with the size, weight, quality and functionality.
+R.A.S. Tactical Cool. Yeah, ultralight gear is always expensive. The tent is the most expensive item in my BOB by far. The LightHeart Duo tent is one of the roomiest 3 season, fully enclosed 2 person tents on the market (55" x 100"). I can fit my entire small family inside with backpacks, which is what I was in the need for.Eventually, as the kid get older (and bigger!) I'll need to upgrade to a larger tent. Right now this one works for me.
Really Awesome video, always enjoy seeing your gear choices. About the Thermarest Z-Mat, i think you should look into a company called Exped, they make really amazing and compact air mattresses, they have 2 different types, The Synmat, and The Downmat, (I think you can figure out why their called that). I personally use the Synmat 9LW (Longer and Wider). Completely stored its slightly bigger than the SOL Escape Bivy, I think you would find these products excellent for your bug out bag.
Have a two person self supporting tent from REI with cheap aluminium stakes. Saw a TH-cam video on a US Marine two person tent in camo. A little heavy, but good for car camping. Have some of those quality "T" stakes and may combine with a large tarp if separated from the Two-person tent. Thank you for the video ! tjl
+Tim Lipinski Thanks for watching, Tim! I definitely had a hard time finding something camo but lightweight. Tents can really cut into your overall BOB weight.
Taking your situation into consideration, I think you got a nice system. Some item related 'feedback'.- Ground tarp is a good thing to have, this one seems a bit noisy though? wouldn't a contractor bag do the same but offer more options? .... .....- Nice tent, light weight too 1.3kg is like nothing, especially for the real-estate it seems to offer. Not to sure if a tent would be suitable for my personal situation, but being a tent camper I understand the benefits from one especially if you are with family (and coming from the windy/rainy country of The Netherlands I understand how it has some added benefit over a tarp, in certain 'climatic zones') ... ....- The clothing / liner / bivvy seems to be a good choice too. Does the bivvy have a double zipper on it? If so you may want to change the liner to have an open bottom as well, that way you can keep your shoes on while sleeping. I am still so in 'doubt' about my choices on this, going back and forth between the same two items you go between. Either the bulky wool, or the emergency bivvy/liner combo. So I am looking forward to your mods to the wool blanket, perhaps it's something for me too. (personally I can not stand wool, so my idea was to use bed linen sown on to reduce the itch, and perhaps stuff it as well by sewing squares and stuffing those with synthetic material; It could also double as a winter landscape cloak due to the linen being white). Still though 'BULK'! :( .... ....- Lastly the pad, dang hard choice, like I mentioned on the design video, you got me to doubt my original choice of using a self inflatable matrass (had a 1/2 or 3/4 size in mind). Especially due to the durability aspect of it (and the fact that these kinds of matrasses need to be 'stored' freely with the airvent opened instead of roled up (as that makes it lose it's self-inflatability). But seeing this pad ... hmm definitely not something that's suitable for me. More then likely I will need to go with a closed cell foam rolled up pad, but modified (cut to size, and foldable to reduce size even more) ... ...- Pillow seems to be genius, for my camping gear I have a smaller compressible one, but I would consider it to bulky for a bugoutbag. This loksac bag seems to be a good compromise though, especially seeing how it multifunctional over a dedicated inflatable pillow. Also, having a bunch of these sac's for waterproofing certain gear means that it's unlikely that loss of one (due to w/e reason) will be the end of a good night sleep.
My own (theoretical) system right now:- Sleep under: Reusable space blanket used in a tarp setup (from 10c's of survival) ... ... - Ground 'tarp': contractor bag (can be stuffed with leafs in colder situations, or even slept in while stuffed) ... ... - Sleep in: the bivvy/liner combo; though with a 51/49 over the wool blanket (the blanket seems much more versatile) ... ... - Sleep on: likely going to be a heavily modified closed cell pad ... ... - Head on: a loksac, seems like a no brainer now, tbh...
+Danielsgamingchanne1 Me too. I just don't trust their durability. I was seriously debating on using the Thermarest NeoAir All-Season, but the price was just too high for a BOB.
I think that if you bug out in an Urban environment, you should look to rooftops. Using a ladder to get ip on a roof, then pull it up. It provides you the high ground and allows you water capture. You can also rest in roof stairwell enclosures. It will allow you to hear someone coming up the stairwell. Thanks for your great videos!
+Nelson Reyes great idea, but not super practical for those living in Seattle.
+Mike L Very true. I was speaking from my part of the country in South Florida.
Nelson Reyes ; You think as I do!
Nelson Reyes ; central, coastal Florida, here!
Great comment ! Nelson R. heard stories of young kids sleeping on the roof tops of buildings in Chicago with hot humid summers. Or on the beach of Lake Michigan to stay cool. (First half of the 1900's/before A/C) tjl
And my research for camping pillows had just ended.
How simple! And it has multiple uses!
Your videos always offer good ideas. Keep it up!
Have you ever looked at a military poncho liner, also known as a "Wooby"? They are super warm and can be stuffed rather tightly.
Like this reco! < 5" diameter rolled and 1.7 lb. Not much bulk, lightweight and keeps in a lot of heat. Mil spec and effective.
You know I'm blown away by how connected we all are even though we are all so far apart 😊 just a thought lol great video
I am continuously impressed by your well researched and creative solutions to these complex problems
How can you even fit all this in a single bag...
Preps bro
kid prepper is quite the helper...so cute. Enjoy your channel.
I noticed that your egg crate pad is a full body length of 14 folds. I've had these. Reading the (ultra)light hiking/camping booklets, they mention to cut off the bottom portion below the knees, as the knees to feet are not necessarily needing a pad. I would instead consider moving the pad headward from the knees, and then folding the excess at the head for a head pillow or head-shoulder pillow 2 folds long. From vid 9:39, it looks like 10 of 14 is your body size, and 4 folds moved headward would give you a single stack of 6 for the head-neck, or a 3 ply fold 2 folds long for the head and shoulders. The folds could even be 4-3-2-1 folded in a decline from the head and shoulders down to the back.
+John Lord I've been thinking about doing this. I thought that the spare piece could be used as a seat cushion, with attachments for optional reconnecting to the main pad. Thanks for the comment!
On the pad, I've found that I really only need to protect my core when on the ground, so you can probably get away with cutting the pad in half. As long as your shoulders and hips are on the pad, you should be comfortable. I've made two pads out of one this way. Great vid as always. Been following you since the beginning.
Genius idea for the pillow!
+kelley crum Thanks! That is my favorite item on this module. So simple.
Thank you for putting so much time into sharing your experience, especially the PDFs ! Greatly appreciated.
+Charles Roberts You are very welcome! Thanks for watching. I'm glad you enjoy the PDF's.
wondering if you've been able to test your system in winter yet? do you add more for winter? in MN we get to -45degrees regularly and while those emergency bivvys save space, they just don't cut it... I guess it might help you survive a bit longer lol, but you'll probably die sooner than if you had more. if you do a winter test, I'd really love to see. I've seen & done some winter tests with the SOL ones, but never the Go one you have. Thanks again for a nice video with documents (really appreciate you take the time to do those). ATB
+AL Genaro Seattle is no where near MN weather wise. Heck, we get a dusting of snow on the ground and it becomes a major news story. What works in one area might not work in another. Even our popular mountain areas don't get that cold. Your example perfectly shows why it is so important to know your area and prepare accordingly. -45...ouch that is cold.
Forgot in Seattle. Haha, so true. Yes it is. Been -30 with the wind chill the last few days. My wood stove has been working hard in my poorly insulated shack. Thought about testing out the new underquilt I made for my hammock this weekend, but nope :-P too cold to mess around for fun... I just wish winter could be lighter for me without buying special lightweight equipment. Darn my area lol
AL Genaro Maybe you need to invent some lightweight cold weather gear, make your fortune that way :)
+Mike L I'll just stay fat so I'm allowed to carry heavier packs without anyone being upset it isn't the right percentage :-P
This is my first comment. I have been looking at your youtube videos for a few years now. You have the best pedagogical approach, and very good information. Since i live in Sweden i cannot buy all i have seen here and want to have. But i can find alternatives. I also agree with your idea of bugging in. You have been giving me some very good ideas for my getting home bag and my pocket organisers.
+Johan Bertilsson Thank you so much for the comment, Johan!! I'm glad you enjoy my content. That is so cool. Please keep me posted if you ever need help obtaining gear.
I also experience difficulties purchasing many of the items of here in Europe. so many brands are just not available for us over here.
Another nice video. So many of these decisions depend on where you are and what season it is. I like your tent option and are also sensitive to length as I am 6'5" tall. I found the SOL emergency bivy and carry that for 3 seasons here in the Southern Illinois area. I also use a synthetic 'lid' from a Sierra Designs sleep system. That lid has an adequate foot box and the rest of the lid is deployable like a blanket. I have see now they are marketing the concept separately as 'alpine blankets'. A good choice to minimize weight & bulk but maximize warmth provided.
You have some of the most informative, detailed videos related to prepping on TH-cam. Great info and great videos!
+Witz End Thank you so much! I try to cram a lot of information in them. Hopefully my verbose is useful. :)
Hello,
I was watching a few reviews on the trifecta and have been very impressed. I really like the idea of using this as a primary sleeping bag but I had some concerns using it as such. I was wanting your opinion on what I might be able to use this bag. Let me give some background to explain.
I live in southeast Texas. It is wet and warm. My financial resources are very limited but I want to do some backpacking a camping. I have been looking at multiple items and wondered what I actually need. It looked to me like I need a sleeping bag, a quality tarp, and a hammock or a tent. The thing about the sleeping bag is that I don't need a hot sleeping bag. It is currently (as an example) 11:15 PM in late October and the weather channel says it is 75. The low for the next week is 55 with most nights not dropping below 65 without a hard rain to drive down the temperature. With my weather, it seems like most of the time, I need a less heat retention than most people would need for a night in the woods.
So my thought is to use the trifecta as my primary sleeping bag with still getting to use the tarp option as a light weight, get out of the weather, option for day hikes.
I do have a few concerns with using it as such and since you plan to use it as your main stay sleeping bag for your emergency bug out bag, I should ask you.
My first concern is durability. I get that the trifecta is more than capable of taking on an emergency role but is it rugged enough to take on a primary use role?
My second concern seems silly to ask but I will due to the fact that it will directly impact my sleep. I get that the trifecta will be more noisy than a "traditional" sleeping bag but is it too distracting? I realize that the question is subjective but it is a worry so I will still ask.
My third concern is how breathable (and soft) is the material? Obviously, waterproof inhibits breathability but my worry is that while the trifecta might work just fine (once again) in an emergency situation, it might not have the breathability or comfort necessary as the primary sleeping bag. I really like the idea of possibly using a liner and that should help but I am unsure of that as well since I want to be able to utilize the full length (at 6'4") and width of the bag.
My fourth concern is how well the trifecta will work in a hammock system. At some point (after saving all I can) I would like to get a hammock system since trees in in southeast Texas are plentiful but dry ground is not. I even have the hammock system picked out. Unfortunately, the Warbonnet Blackbird XLC is a long way off from my budget but I would like to get something that would work with my dream hammock.
I guess what it comes down to is, how practical of an idea is this for my situation in your opinion? Would I be better off buying a light sleeping bag or the Trifecta?
Thank you in advance for both your time and your honest opinion.
In Good Faith,
Michael
+Sparrow Flying thanks for the info
excellent pillow idea! Wrap in fleece jacket or make a fleece stuff sack/pillow case for it
+HardcoreFourSix Thanks! The fleece cover sure would be nice!
How well has the tent held up?
By far the best and most informative videos I've come across! I've just started prepping, and having 2 children of my own , your videos have helped me out on where and how to start. Great work
Jerry That is so kind for you to say! I'm glad that my videos have been useful to you in your own Preparedness measures.
Wow! I love it! Very well thought through and very applicable with a Bug Out Bag, just great! Thanks for this :)
+Joe Betts Thanks a bunch for watching, Joe!
that's a great idea with the lock bag a good space saver that's thinking out of the bag/box
Here's a simple pillow idea: just bring along a pillowcase, then turn your jacket inside out and stuff it into the pillowcase. It's comfy, and very lightweight and compact when not in use.
Jon Acheson but then you can't wear the jacket
No one does these videos better than you! Great coverage and info!
Another EXCELLENT vid/tutorial! Your PDF is awesome - as usual. I really appreciate the amount of thought that you put into the content & research for your channel ... making it one of my favorites - if not the BEST channel. It's crazy how deep my own notes get after watching one of your vids. Thx.
+mark showers Wow! Thank you SO much, Mark! I try to provide as much information as I can in these type of videos. I'll keep cranking out new content as efficiently as I can.
Those moving blankets, they make great ponchos for warmth. You get them at u-haul.
Another thing to consider instead of the 4 way valve wrench is a Gator grip socket. It has a huge amount of variable wrench options in a single socket that's about the size of a spark plug socket and can save you space and weight, of course you'll need a socket wrench too as well.
+traderjoes I included one previously, although I've upgraded to something else in my new Tools Module (coming soon).
Excellent job, nice set up for a shelter and the info as well, keep the good work!!!!!
just a thought, why not use a thick yoga mat? I saw one at the store marshalls today and honestly I checked it out and it would work as a sleeping pad!
Great vid, very practicle seems to be a very comfortable layout. Pdfs are always a plus! Thx
I like this king of set up videos for your bob nice work well done my friend
Looks like you landed with a light/compact set up to meet your requirements. Test the aLOKSAK as a pillow. I've used it as a pillow, but its only drawback is noise. That may not be a problem for you. Always good to preflight your gear before you need it. Especially in a disaster scenario. Great as always
+CampfireTalk I'm a pretty deep sleeper. It would probably drive my wife bonkers though. :)
When next version? I have been doing this for ten months!
Good system. The only thing I would add is that, with the locksack as a pillow, any air-filled pad especially without foam like an inflatable thermarest, will quickly take on the temperature of ambient air. This will make for a very cold pillow if it's cold out. Adding more insulation on top like a thick sweatshirt should be enough to keep your head warm. Good video. :)
+D P Good tips! I was thinking of using the pillow on the foam pad, in combination with a shirt on the Loksak.
Sounds good. :)
Urban prepper, for your pillow prep have you consider the bladder inside a box of wine? They can be washed out, are very durable, inflate and deflate in seconds and can be used as an additional water carrier when needed. They are inexpensive and like the bag in your video can be covered in a jumper or t-shirt for comfort.
Keep up the good work. I love the vids
Nice job TUP. I've struggled for years with a good shelter system, and truly have yet to implement one in my gear due to size and weight constrictions. I guess it's something I feel comfortable enough "improvising" when it comes time to implement, but as always, you've provided me with some good food for though! Thanks for another great video!
+Cyclops Triceratops It's definitely a tough topic to settle on. Food for thought is all I hope for. Everyone should have different setups.
How low a temp do you think you would be comfortable with the liner/bivy combo? Thanks for all you do.
+Yosef621 I'm working on a dedicated video for this, but I need the weather to get colder up here. I'm still trying to figure out the best way of measuring warmth accurately for the video, besides just saying whether I am cold or not. Any recommendations?
Neat idea with by the tyvek! If you crumple the tyvek and add a lot of creases it becomes "stealthier" by decreasing the sound it makes. Something simple you could do to it to improve opsec. Cheers
Trekology pillow, better than a bag. Worth it.
Good one, Cliff. Some neat products you shared. How was the overnight?
Like the shirt. Love the tent.
nice to see your upping your shelter mod, is it all still fitting into the small pack?
+Wandering Beast Thanks for watching, Beast! It's slightly larger than my last design, but slightly lighter too due to the cot replacement. The tent compresses small. In this video it took me several takes on the tent scene, so it probably looked larger than what it will end up being for long term storage.
What's the planned weight for all modules of your Bug Out Bag 3.0?
nice t-shirt :)
+Tactical+ Haha... Thanks. :)
Do you also pack fresh lobster and a 5 star masseuse too? Nice video
Hey, I just want to say your organization and downloadable info is awesome and super helpful. I appreciate your hard work and research.
Genious setup dude. You did some good research.
Thanks a bunch, David!
Im runnin a vango zenith 100.
Jil from LokSak 💜
Awesome video Cliff. I like many of your gear choices. Have you tested the bivi and sleeping bag liner yet? You might find that they're more effective if you're only wearing your undies. Remember your body heats the sleep system, the sleep system doesn't heat you.
Thanks for sharing!
OH8STN I use the same liner and SOL bivi in conjunction with an Agesmax down sleeping bag and found it very comfortable as low as -2c.
I really enjoy watching your videos! I have almost mirrored you style of prepping since I live in an Urban area here in Tulsa, OK. I went out and bought a Kelty Redwing 44 to store everything in. When will you be doing a video showing how you pack everything in, along with the sleeping pad? Thanks for the info, I know a lot of work and planning goes into these vids!
+Jonathan James Thanks for the support, Jonathan! That video will be posted as soon as all of the modules are up. It's definitely like playing Prepping Tetris!
I have been dying to see how you pack everything in your bag. Is the video up? I would love to watch it.
termarest sleeping pad is awesome. now it's my favourite pad. yellow color is crazy. I took brown-green color pad without silver (brown\green termarest is not so warm like silwer\yellow but looks better :-))))
+Tactical+ I really like the pad too. I figured I could get away with the bright color as long as it was setup in the camo tent.
I like the idea of using a liner with a bivi, however I tested it out one night and found that my body heat created a lot of condensation in the bivi bag. I also use the thermarest zlite sol for backcountry camping and really love it!!
Did you use the escape bivvy? It is breathable.
I think it might be the emergency bivi. I also added a zipper to it for easy in and out.
I love your videos! Have you looked at the British Army Jungle sleeping bag as a sleep option? Compresses really small and would be a great addition, inexpensive too!
+jamie Outdoors Thanks Jamie! I've looked at them, but I read that they were mainly for 2 seasons. What do you think of them? Worthwhile? They certainly look promising!
I, too, have been concerned about compressed bags stored in a BOB losing their loft. Going with a bivy and liner instead of a bag is a great idea!
Great video. However, is the tent big enough for family? or does each family member carry their own tent?
You mentioned a review of the Lightheart Duo, but I couldn’t find one on your page. Did you like it? In the market for shelter beyond tarp and sleeping bag and debating a tent? (I’m 6’4 ” and live in New England so have to consider winter)
I like your pillow idea.
+Tom Olofsson Thanks Tom! Simple, multi-purpose, fairly inexpensive and durable. I like it!
+TheUrbanPrepper My grandson once fell asleep with his head on an unopenned bag of Doritos. Caution: Doritos may not support those of us with fat heads. ; )
How do you fit sleeping pads for your whole family in the bag?
Something to consider about wearing clothes to bed. Most sleep systems I've used worked better the less I had on. Some of that stuff will reflect enough heat and not allow your body heat to heat up the air space in your bivy. Maybe do a sleep test with and without being fully dressed? I definitely recommend the wool cap on the head though. Also, consider the much loved "woobie" as a nice edition to your "what you sleep in" strategy. Super lightweight, super comfy, and most of all the ultimate "blankey" lol...
+Texas Dirtdart woobie = poncho liner...forgot that part
Hi Cliff. Do you have emergency kits built for your wife and kid prepper?
Hey great vid but I wanna ask how are u going to fit four of these in ur kit because ur a party of four
+The random Masked guy I can fit my small family of 4 in this tent. Next year or the year after I will need to get a slightly larger tent, once the kids are bigger.
Fantastic info, and a great choice on the tent. (review coming up?)
+Adam Bates Thanks Adam! Yep, I'm working on a review. The segments shown in this video were part of that review in progress.
@@TheUrbanPrepper I combed through your videos and I didn't see it. I suspect something happened to it (catastrophic failure)?
Hey Man, you do a great job with your videos. They are put together very well, explained very well, and are concise as to not waste the viewers time. Also, how you do your videos in segments of a complete system is a terrific idea. One question: living in Seattle, your climate is a bit wet and can get cold. I am concerned about your bivy/liner system. Do you feel that would be enough in the cold and snowy times, or do you have an alternate setup for that type of situation? Great tent though. I live on the East Coast in Nova Scotia. Though your tent and closed cell matt would be great, I don't think someone here could make it through the night with just the bivy and liner and fare well through the night. Just a question. I don't mean to take anything away from your system. Cheers. Be well.
+joe cardio Joe what you wanna do is look at the items on their web page, get the technical specs -- weight and temperature ratings, in particular. Then you can make a reasonably safe assumption about what is necessary for the environment you live in. The colder the environment, the more weight you have to sacrifice for this shelter component. Sounds to me like you would need a good lightweight, cold weather sleeping bag for Nova Scotia. Good luck!
nice set up
Video idea for you. How about bug out/ bug in decision matrix or flow chart?
Do you have an Amazon store link so I can support you while I shop? I couldn't find one. Thanks.
+HonoluluTita I don't have a store link. You support me by watching my videos and participating in the comment section though! Thanks for thinking about me about this. I appreciate it. ~Cliff
Really enjoying your channel. Thanks for all your tips.
Maybe include earplugs because all that tyvek and other materials make a lot of noise.
Another great video!!! Thanks from Puyallup!!
Thank you for the video and including metric!
great video i am also building a b.o.b and i was really looking for good shelter so thank you!!!
love your video's keep up the good work!!!
+I Will show you how Great i am M L You are very welcome!
thx
I meant the sleeping mats and the liner how are u going to fit for egg Mars in your bob
great shelter system atb John
just how did you pop ur tire? looked like the whole thing ripped open
+16.5toHeaven I'm not sure. I was driving on the freeway and it just blew. I don't think I hit anything. The two front tires needed to be replaced. Thankfully I was driving in the slow lane when it happened and was able to take care of everything safely.
TheUrbanPrepper Just glad everything's fine. I checked my spare after I saw that post, and realized I didn't replace it yet, been nearly a year now. Stuffed the tire space with all sorts of gear and thought I had a spare ready to go, lol.
Great video, theurbanprepper!
+M97 Thanks a bunch for watching!
I enjoyed the video. Thank you!
Great video, as usual, Cliff. A couple of questions: 1) Do you, or have you in the past, included or tested any of the lightweight Mylar blankets and bags that are often included in commercial survival kits? 2) Do you include your vehicle, or vehicles in general, as part of your shelter plan? I'm thinking in particular, under circumstances where you might want the extra security a closed vehicle might provide, or protection from weather extremes that a tent or field expedient shelter might not protect you from so well. Always look forward to your videos.
+Whoozerdaddy Great questions! I definitely think that you should leverage your vehicle with your BOB and GHB (e.g., Prepping Circles video). I think a vehicle would be the perfect place to store heavier items like a wool blanket and extra water. I think there could definitely be circumstances when sleeping in your vehicle would be much better than in a tent. Condensation will need to be something to keep in mind. I have tested the fancier mylar style blankets like the Bivvy's you've seen in my videos. I don't think I've slept outside with ONLY a survival kit style mylar blanket. We actually use them more for insulation, like on windows, during power outages and extreme cold weather. They work great for that! It would be fun to do more testing on this subject to see how the various models compare with each other!
TheUrbanPrepper I remember when the Space Blanket came out, many years ago. I had one for probably 15 years until I literally wore it out. That Mylar is great stuff. Totally agree on the wool army blanket, too. They have been a staple of warmth in my family for over half a century. I always have one in the car for the exact reasons you mention. They're warm, even when wet, dense so they don't blow around in a breeze and extremely fire resistant. Thanks for the reply!
+Whoozerdaddy Great history! Mrs. UP absolutely LOVES our ugly, scratchy, used military wool blanket. She always wants it with us when we are going to be outside in the cold.
+TheUrbanPrepper Have you checked out the Boreal Shirt by Lester River Bushcraft ? They are made from new military wool blankets.
Great video as always. Thanks for the ideas.
-Jerome
+Jerome Katie (NKy Gear Check) Thanks for watching, Jerome!
TheUrbanPrepper I was watching this video again and I was wondering if you are using the same type of set up for your family? Your wife and son. I know that you have stuff set up for them.
I am setting up a family kit and am still working on it. Thanks!
-Jerome
Great video ! For the Wool Blanket do a video on the Blanket Pin that is multi use ! The Blanket Pin can be packed with your Fire Kit ! Just picked up a Poncho/Tarp that is Rip-Stop Nylon, Grommets and Double-Sided Snaps And when combined with those MSR Aluminium "T" Stakes (you showed) and 100 feet of Para Cord then you have emergency Shelter for the Day Pack ! The only con is that the Ponch/Tarp says "Made in China" ! Thank you for the video ! tjl
Went to their website. Seems they don’t offer that model anymore.
Have you thought of putting a wool blanket in your Loksak and squeezing the air out then sealing it. It wouldn't help with weight but it should help with real estate.
can you do a comparison between the 2GO and the SOL bivvy? I see that the SOL is smaller but Is one warmer than the other?
I can look into it. Good idea!
Ah, thanks for the philosophy at the beginning of the video! It always puts your gear choices into context, and really helps me to understand how and why you're implementing your kit.
Do you keep a brush or anything like that on hand to clean out your tent, or does the tent have a porch-like vestibule to keep things covered but outside the inner part of the tent? From camping, I know that if I don't keep my shoes outside the tent, I track in all kinds of crud.
+Whitfield Parham Hmmm... I include a brush when we go family camping, but I never thought about including one in my BOB. Do you have a specific brush recommendation? I wonder if there is something that could be multi-purpose. The tent does have a vestibule, but I didn't really show it in this video. This is definitely something I'll need to think about more. Thanks for the comment as always, Whitfield!
You're welcome, broseph!
I don't have any recommendations particularly, since we just used a cheap dollar store brush and dustbin combo. You could probably get by with some bandanas tied tightly against the end of a stick.
+Whitfield Parham I'll definitely think about this idea more! Perhaps it would just be best to have it on hand nearby (e.g., vehicle) to save on size and weight.
All good tips and how to's again.I recently had a self inflating sleeping pad puncture and deflate due to a tiny stick. So that shiny egg carton style is perfect.Also - I like keeping a spare set of clothes in a cloth sack or camo pillow case then I can use it as a pillow for me if im not feeling well, l or a guest thats not use to Roughing it.
+PREPFORIT I like the idea of the camo pillow case!
Did you say "Jill from LokSak"?
😍
Your video is well laid out, especially if you watch the concept video about shelter before hand. What would be nice is to see all your families gear in the tent with you. As reference for tent size and such. But either way, kudos on such well laid out videos.
Mission Dictates llioikkooomkkkklokkkkimkkik
haha. that's crazy. I stayd in this hotel that's somewhere in front on him in mid april.. I member that back ground.. and on his right hand side should be the needle.?
how much was that camo tent?
+R.A.S. Tactical All of the information for the items is included in the PDF link. The camo ultralight tent was ~$315. Definitely had to save up a little, but I'm really happy with the size, weight, quality and functionality.
TheUrbanPrepper good god that's alot! And yea I just downloaded the pdf
+R.A.S. Tactical Cool. Yeah, ultralight gear is always expensive. The tent is the most expensive item in my BOB by far. The LightHeart Duo tent is one of the roomiest 3 season, fully enclosed 2 person tents on the market (55" x 100"). I can fit my entire small family inside with backpacks, which is what I was in the need for.Eventually, as the kid get older (and bigger!) I'll need to upgrade to a larger tent. Right now this one works for me.
Intrepido yea for real ;-)
***** won't be nearly as good as a tent :-)
Great vid! thanks!!!
Really Awesome video, always enjoy seeing your gear choices. About the Thermarest Z-Mat, i think you should look into a company called Exped, they make really amazing and compact air mattresses, they have 2 different types, The Synmat, and The Downmat, (I think you can figure out why their called that). I personally use the Synmat 9LW (Longer and Wider). Completely stored its slightly bigger than the SOL Escape Bivy, I think you would find these products excellent for your bug out bag.
I meant how are u going to fit four liners and egg mats in a bob since u have 4 people in ur family
Make a head hole in the heavy military blanket and wear it as a poncho instead of carrying it..perhaps! ?
Links to products in description would help a lot. Cheers.
Have a two person self supporting tent from REI with cheap aluminium stakes. Saw a TH-cam video on a US Marine two person tent in camo. A little heavy, but good for car camping. Have some of those quality "T" stakes and may combine with a large tarp if separated from the Two-person tent. Thank you for the video ! tjl
+Tim Lipinski Thanks for watching, Tim! I definitely had a hard time finding something camo but lightweight. Tents can really cut into your overall BOB weight.
Hey, maybe you can use the LokSak to carry your shirt. Then once you need it as a pillow whip out the shirt and put it over the inflated bag.
+Jason McDaniel Good idea!
Taking your situation into consideration, I think you got a nice system. Some item related 'feedback'.- Ground tarp is a good thing to have, this one seems a bit noisy though? wouldn't a contractor bag do the same but offer more options? .... .....- Nice tent, light weight too 1.3kg is like nothing, especially for the real-estate it seems to offer. Not to sure if a tent would be suitable for my personal situation, but being a tent camper I understand the benefits from one especially if you are with family (and coming from the windy/rainy country of The Netherlands I understand how it has some added benefit over a tarp, in certain 'climatic zones') ... ....- The clothing / liner / bivvy seems to be a good choice too. Does the bivvy have a double zipper on it? If so you may want to change the liner to have an open bottom as well, that way you can keep your shoes on while sleeping. I am still so in 'doubt' about my choices on this, going back and forth between the same two items you go between. Either the bulky wool, or the emergency bivvy/liner combo. So I am looking forward to your mods to the wool blanket, perhaps it's something for me too. (personally I can not stand wool, so my idea was to use bed linen sown on to reduce the itch, and perhaps stuff it as well by sewing squares and stuffing those with synthetic material; It could also double as a winter landscape cloak due to the linen being white). Still though 'BULK'! :( .... ....- Lastly the pad, dang hard choice, like I mentioned on the design video, you got me to doubt my original choice of using a self inflatable matrass (had a 1/2 or 3/4 size in mind). Especially due to the durability aspect of it (and the fact that these kinds of matrasses need to be 'stored' freely with the airvent opened instead of roled up (as that makes it lose it's self-inflatability). But seeing this pad ... hmm definitely not something that's suitable for me. More then likely I will need to go with a closed cell foam rolled up pad, but modified (cut to size, and foldable to reduce size even more) ... ...- Pillow seems to be genius, for my camping gear I have a smaller compressible one, but I would consider it to bulky for a bugoutbag. This loksac bag seems to be a good compromise though, especially seeing how it multifunctional over a dedicated inflatable pillow. Also, having a bunch of these sac's for waterproofing certain gear means that it's unlikely that loss of one (due to w/e reason) will be the end of a good night sleep.
My own (theoretical) system right now:- Sleep under: Reusable space blanket used in a tarp setup (from 10c's of survival) ... ... - Ground 'tarp': contractor bag (can be stuffed with leafs in colder situations, or even slept in while stuffed) ... ... - Sleep in: the bivvy/liner combo; though with a 51/49 over the wool blanket (the blanket seems much more versatile) ... ... - Sleep on: likely going to be a heavily modified closed cell pad ... ... - Head on: a loksac, seems like a no brainer now, tbh...
I really like the tryfecta my review of it will be up in about a week
Nice! I'd love to watch it.
Do you have a link?
+BigJ8k For the PDF? It is in the Description box.
Does anyone have any ideas for a lightweight shelter I can sleep in, but isn't like a bivvys shown here as I can't find any were I live (Australia).
+James Martin Have you looked into one person tents? (if that's what you are referring to)
Don't forget a sponge for the moisture that will inevitably find its way into the tent (if you don't already have it covered).
+05generic Good tip! I have one in my cooking module. I wonder if I should transfer it over?
+TheUrbanPrepper Can you squeeze in a second for dedicated use? It will get kinda funky.
great video mate very interesting
me personally i would rather a roll up mattress as it is easier to store
bu thats just me
+Danielsgamingchanne1 Me too. I just don't trust their durability. I was seriously debating on using the Thermarest NeoAir All-Season, but the price was just too high for a BOB.
+TheUrbanPrepper oh really dont they last to long? That sucks
If you wash the tyvak it won't be so loud.
+Ken Lynn Yep. I did that for my last one, but still need to for this one. Thanks for reminding me!
Looks like good items. But I don't see how you and your family, and your gear will fit in that tent.