Alternate advice: as a beginner, focus more on getting out than buying gear. Use what you already have and go with friends who are experienced hikers or join a hiking meetup group. TH-cam hiking is about buying stuff rather than exploring. There’s a time for buying gear but I wouldn’t let that come in the way of getting out.
I think that's kind of the situation. Dan talks a lot about starting gear and this video is one specifically about starting or early acquisition gear. He's telling people that when they buy starting gear for their first hike to get things that facilitate comfort outside so people DO enjoy their first hikes with groups or friends. You'd be amazed how many people buy a ton of expensive gear for lightweight camping, go out once, hate it because they bought a ton of uncomfortable gear, and never go again. This is kind of talking about not listening to TH-camrs who say to go with one camp and to buy things you think will be the best for you.
I COMPLETELY agree with this sentiment. But I will add that sometimes certain gear is essential, obviously, and I read this video as advice on what he wished he had focused on instead of needless buys.
when you are over 30 it doesnt work like that. you have enough money to afford stuff, but have no time. so making that free time as comfortable as possible takes priority over fucking around.
An alternative view: Good gear and the right gear keeps you safe and makes your outdoor adventures enjoyable. If you are miserable when you are just getting out there with what you already have, then that might ruin the experience for you or worse.
Gear I should have bought sooner: Trekking poles!! For whatever reason I was worried about looking like an old man with them, but boy do they help in many different situations! Love the videos Dan, Keep it up!
Indeed I also thought they were only for older people but trekking poles are essential. No way I could wade across a river with strong current and water up to my stomach without Trekking poles. They are also useful when you are walking down a mountain and are forced to balance on big stones.
My friends and I are young but we will use sets of trekking poles if we have a full pack, we've used them to help make it through the woods when trying not to ruin our night vision when hiking during new moons.
Hey Dan, I love your videos and have learned a lot from them. I’ve always been a forest/ Outdoor gal, but only recent,y started backpacking 3 years ago. My first trip was with a $50 pack, $30 bag, $20 pad, etc., from amazon and then of course, packed with too much stuff. I not only survived that trip, I was hooked, and quickly started getting “real gear”. Of course I was influenced by the ultralight stuff and have my fair share of those accessories, some useful, some, not so much. It is difficult to justify spending $500+ on major items like the tent and pack, when I love mine, but they are not light. I’m 57, or 58, or 57...can’t recall, but anyway, I would LOVE to see you interview some older female hikers and their views on light vs. comfort, etc. I can’t find many out there. Heck, I may do my own review sometime, but at my age, I worry about the support some of these lighter packs have.
When the Xlite came out, it was the best, and it continued to be for a year or maybe more. Nobody else was making an inflatable pad that good. But then the competition caught up and now there are several inflatables just as good, and a couple that are better. I've got a collection of them now, constantly looking for the "one" that will let me sleep comfortably through the night when I tent camp. The Nemo Tensor wide was the first that got there for me, so I think my days of pad collecting are finally over.
The Sea to Summit Ether Light XT is amazingly comfortable and light as well. I have the long/wide rectangular insulated version, and it's absolutely glorious, but only 1.5 pounds.
Yesssss! The wider sleeping pad! I thought "oh no! It's 6 ounces heavier!" and then when I tested it out in my house, I wasn't falling off and waking up (I'm a side sleeper that tosses and turns). So happy with my new pad, (aside from the fact I didn't realize it wasn't the insulated version, my baaaaaad). Now I just have that extra pad for anybody who wants to go with me and has no gear.
I love going through a busy back country campground to see the variety of old and new tents. Love the old ones. I refuse to replace my 20 year old REI QuarterDome 3p tent. For its size I’m amazed it comes in at 3 pounds. I love that tent and the memories I’ve had using it!
Nemo Tensor insulated! Just wait till you get to camp and get it ready in a minute or less without even having to blow directly in it. Plus it’s really quiet and comfortable. 🤙
+1 on that. I have both the standard and insulated. Much quieter than my Xlite, and they are just a tiny bit thicker on the sides than in the middle which helps keep you "nestled" in the middle of the pad. I haven't woken up in the middle of the night half on and half off the pad, which is a big plus. And I think the finish of the top surface feels really nice - very soft.
Same here for the Sea-To-Summit Ether Lite XT Large. Using the sack pump I can get the thing filled properly with just 6 breaths. I remember blowing up a thick 2-person air mattress with my mouth back when I was young (at festivals, not on hiking trips) and nearly passing out. Quite the change of pace.
The intro is so insightful. Just looked at 2 hiking channels on youtube and both of them had different recommendations yeach year. 2017 - ”this is the best tent and why I don’t use a stove!” 2019 - ”this is why a bivak is better than a tent and why I use a stove” There IS bad gear and good gear (for example when it comes to battery packs) but sometimes it’s just about taste, and your taste may vary from year to year. Sometimes you gotta go through a journey for yourself and try X before you switch to Y
Mors Kochanski recommended the biggest spoon you could get for going into the bush. I got a sterling silver spoon from a set of silverware that had been sold piecemeal secondhand, and this cook spoon looked like it had been barely used. It was long and large. Silver helps knock down bacteria should cleanliness be a factor in the field, but it is a perfect size at 9 inches long, and won't melt in the fire by accident. Excellent spoon though the end is a bit large at 3 1/4 by 2 1/4 inches within the 9 inches overall. It provides utility and function for a lifetime of use.
Rich here- the badder half. For me, just getting into backpacking again at 66 I realize I cant do the 40-50# I did 20 years ago, but also have come to realize I need some comfort for sleeping. So going light on some things like using a North Star Bivy tent allowed me to cut weight, but now everything is the trade-off for something else- dialing in the lightest possible pack with the most comfort for sleeping. The challenge continues! Looking next at a 2# pack instead of the Ospery Silhouette 6#
My primary reason for using a tent is mosquito protection. If you're somewhere with a heavy mosquito population, having somewhere to shelter while you're changing clothes or taking a babywipe bath is a godsend.
I went through a long evolution of different packs and finally settled on the HMG Windrider. For me, the most comfortable lightweight pack that I’ve found. Simplistic and versatile. Love it!
Just bought the same pack and LOVE IT!!! (I am 5 feet tall with a long torso, so I finally sized myself properly AND saved about 2 lbs! Worth every penny.)
I am older now, well into my 60s. I regularity hike the White Mountains of NH and the trails are steep and have no switch back so light gear is important. When I started, I had rubber rain gear and all my gear was heavy. Today even average gear from REI, EMS etc. will do. If your new just get out and do it. See if you like it. There is plenty of time for 400.00 backpacks and 700.00 tents. Yes, I have all that costly gear but at this point I need them. If you are young and fit with no knee injuries you will be fine. You can always just walk back out if things are not good. I have done this a couple of times and never regretted it.
The Human Gear spoon/fork combo works great but it collects food in the joint where it slides together. When hiking in areas with limited water having to waste water to wash pots and utensils is a negative. I've since switched to a Toaks titanium long spoon and I no longer have to worry about disassembling and cleaning the spoon. All of my prepackaged meals get transferred to freezer bags and I wipe my spoon down with a wet wipe. This makes for a simple and lighter trash pile I have to carry out too.
I just got myself a Granite Gear Blaze 60 pack. It weighs 3 lbs and is rated to carry up to 50 lbs. At 30% off that GG is offering right now, I couldn't pass it up. Lighter than my Osprey Atmos 50, that I sold, and a bit more volume. I'm liking the change! I also just got an insulated wide/long sleep pad. It's heavier but it's so much more comfortable than the cheaper one I'd been using. It's a great time to buy camping/hiking gear right now!
@@komalley35 look into the Warbonnet bridge hammock. I don't have one, but my understanding is they lay more like a bed. If you contact them with questions they are quick to reply. I do have two Blackbird XLC's and I am happy with them and other gear I have bought from them. Good quality products.
Military surplus wet weather poncho, get a Woobie also. 45 degree sleeping bag in half the space, and a little lighter. Multi use also, quick shade on those hot days, etc.
Great video with some on point info. Just bought the HyperLite 2400 pack-lightweight and simple. Your plastic spoon and fork, sad story -plastic falls on ground, foot connects with it and you are eating everything as finger food for the rest of the trip- nope sticking with titanium long handle spoon. Tent verses hammock, my tent is lighter then my hammock and don’t have to worry about not having trees. Thanks for the videos, keep them coming to entertain us.
Hi Dan, I love this video. First I am not a "Backpacker." I have backpacked in Michigan including Isle Royal when I was much younger, I am 78 now. So I day hike and motorcycle camp. One question if someone starts with a tent and finds it comfortable will the average person try a hammock? I started with tents and actually, I still have two. But about two years ago sleeping in a small tent became uncomfortable. I don't crawl and bend as well as I use to. So changing to hammock saved camping for me. BTW I totally agree about the wider pad. I had a similar experience. As to hammock camping: First getting a campsite with two appropriate trees is not a given even in Michigan not to mention going west through the plains. I had to devise a kind of lean-to shelter that attaches my tarp to the bike. Second It does take a bit of practice to get it right the one thing I wish I had done sooner is to buy an under-quilt. Thanks for all your great videos.
I decided a while ago that while hammock camping is fun, my take on them is Hammock = more comfortable, less convenient, tent less comfortable, more convenient. I've done both and enjoyed both. But I opt more for the tent nowadays. Also, with that sleeping pad I found it to be very tough to sleep on and very noisy. Then a hiker told me the trick was to not fill it with as much air as possible, you have to have some give to it. So I tried that, and it was more comfortable and especially quieter. I even slept in my back yard to test out different air amounts.
Amen on the spoon. And I would add, a spoon is so much better than a spork. Sporks just don’t get deep into those corners of the bag to get those last morsels.
I got to admit it Dan, you got us all figured out. TH-cam has certainly influenced (manipulated) us all in our equipment selections. When you were describing yourself, you were describing me.
Really good points man! I have always been a tent guy. Dome style free standing one man tents to be exact. Started out years ago with a simple coleman one man. Weatherproofed it and it worked great for years. Then i went to a seirra designs clip flashlight older gen. Worked great but i couldn't sit up very well. Then bought a military acu digital camo ORC one man tent. Great little tent too for years but still not enough room and condensated quite a bit. Now i bought the big agnes copper spur hv ul 1 in olive 2019 version. Lightweight, super fast pitch, waterproof, tons of room, packs fairly small. Any tent will work but spend the extra money and get what you know is good and would work for you the first time around and save yourself the hassel. Its worth it! Stay safe! Hike on!
This video should have been out 3 years ago when I started out 😆 has sea to summit ultralight and Neo air slight and finally the Nemo Tensor non insulated, never look back since. Thanks for sharing and your natural humour !
I love my hammock but looking forward to getting on the trail with my godson and a tent is really the only way to go. Tenting isn’t bad with the right equipment and then use the hammock when with the guys. Really looking forward to getting the HMG 4400 soon too. Can’t wait to get back on the trails!!!!! Thank you
The Zpacks Arc Haul NOT the blast is the best on the market IMO! I think you will love the Haul much better than your blast Dan and even the HMG as well!
I'm pretty much just getting started but one mistake I think I made already is getting a 3/4 length sleeping mat. I gave it a test and it's both comfortable and really lightweight, but I didn't realise the role they play in keeping you warm too. Although one guy recommended putting one of those light silver foil mats underneath so that might help.
Really like this video. Especially the moments you talk about other TH-cam hiker channels. After all, hiking is such an individual experience. I think you do a great job of pointing this out. Continue on, sir
I have a lot of super nice tent camping gear but once I bought a nice lay flat hammock and tarp setup I'm not tent camping much anymore! Thanks for the video Dan!
Talk to any service member and ask them what they do with the long and narrow MRE meal bags and use the standard spoon.... (pssst) we cut the bag from the side (lengthwise). No more food on our fingers.
I lucked out and found DB's channel before I bought too much stuff. I have a nemo tensor, UGQ quilt, Big Agnes UL tent, but my backpack is a bit heavy (Gregory 65L something or other). Of course I haven't hiked anywhere with all this new equipment and lock down messing up my plans. But I have some really nice backyard camping equipment!
“The” lightweight backpack that can also carry heavier gear is the Osprey Exos! We just got back from the Grand Canyon and had to carry a resupply down to a drop point. All 3 of us have the EXOS and with the resupply we carried weights in the upper 50 lb range. The Exos handled it like a champ. I’m eying the Hyperlite but am not ready to ditch the proven Exos yet. Also agree with you on a wider sleeping pad. A UGQ quilt, a silk liner, an Outdoor Vitals pillow, and the Thermarest NeoAir Xlite Reg/Wide Sleep Pad make for a great sleep system. I’m a huge fan of freestanding tents due to I love camping above tree line at high alpine lakes. The Marmot Tungsten UL 1p works for me. It’s bomb proof, affordable, and light enough for me! Good conversation...
I did a lot of backpacking without these, but now the gear I should have bought sooner: trekking poles, down puffy jacket, small pocket knife, trail runners, buff, inflatable ground pad (no more foam pads for me).
I have been looking for a lightweight backpack that can carry a heavier load for awhile now. My current bag is a 70L osprey aether that weighs almost 5lbs. The only lightweight bags that I can find that carries a heavier load that doesn't break the bank are: ULA Catalyst 75L. Max weight: 40lbs SD Flex Capacitor 60L. Max weight 50lbs Exped Lightning 60L. Max weight 52lbs
Great vid. It's part of the learning process. Sometimes you don't know what you need - and sometimes not even what's actually out there - until you have a bad experience. PADS: With sleep pads, you think the 20" is a standard go-to width based on the fact that just about all YT thru-hikers are skinny little bastards who often look bigger on the screen. I'm very broad across the shoulders. I'm definitely down with the 25" wide pads. Of course, I have to bratwurst myself into a standard sleeping bag, so I'm thinking of shifting to a wide (55") quilt. But for pads, I'll admit I've pretty much been at the mercy of what they're unloading at the REI garage sales. I'm not spending $160 on a friggin balloon. But because of those sales I've now got four pads ranging from R-3.2 to R-5.2 that I bought for about $60, total, including the price of the $5 patch kit I used to fix them all. And three of them are 25" wide. The one that isn't? That first one. :) TENTS: Right now I'm waiting on the new REI Flash Air 2P hybrid tent (1lb., 15 oz., $240 with member discount during current sale). It will be my third on this odyssey. With my solo backpacker tent, I learned that I don't mind trekking pole-supported shelters, but that a 1P is barely bigger than a sleep pad and the vestibules usually rarely fit more than boots. With the free-standing 2P one that I took up Mount Whitney, I learned that when the mesh doesn't start until 2/3 of the way up the walls, you're not getting enough ventilation when you camp at 10,000 feet and still have a few hours of sunlight to deal with. I'm currently looking to sell both of those. Hopefully I won't find enough wrong with the REI to want to replace IT in a couple of years. UTENSIL: I did the long titanium spoon thing, but you learn very quickly whether you can stand having something that long and awkward when you can find something more easily packable. I switched to the GoBites Duo in this vid. For those who are concerned, it not only unfolds longer than those titanium spoons, but the strength does not suffer by virtue of it being a two-piecer. Take care.
But if you only use it for sleep you aren’t “living” in it. Lol I’ve actually lived in a tent before in the mount hood forest for half a year. Apparently there is a law saying you have to move amp spots every 14 days. I over stayed my welcome and forest service found me and gave me a fine. 😂
I love my titanium 750ml pot and long handle spork, but I've changed to a 900ml non-stick pot and long handle plastic spoon. Why? Easy cleaning. Everything gets washed out with a little water, 2 drops of dish washing liquid, and vigorous shaking with the lid on. And folding/collapsible cutlery are just horrible because food gets stuck in the connections and require scrubbing.
I've taken a hammock out before we a nicer place to sit and relax, but never as my primary shelter. Mainly because I often end up above the tree line. Seems nice though.
+1 for the wider sleeping pad ... I also had the Neo X Lite. man, wide pads and even sleeping COTS!! If I knew about sleeping cots earlier! I'd be so much more comfy! (I'm a motorcycle tourer so I can be a little heavier, but not too heavy still) .
I just finished the PCT and found that a large amount of hikers regretted this pack did not due well with heavy loads at all, straps were biggest complaint. I used a lite4f same issues total weight during hike 28 pounds with water and food. And light yes but never carried well. Least complaints on trail were ospreys owner, probably due to not spending a fortune on there packs ha ha. In reality they carry heavy loads better. Oh ya seriously a lot of failures on this pack also stitching strap breakage. My suffered same issues.
That’s some true stuff you got going.. I completely agree with you. The kids, the kids and a tent. I really appreciated your channel and I feel exactly like you. Big up from Sweden 🇸🇪
First backpacking gear video that I can completely agree with, except that, when I started doing longer hikes in the early '90s, EVERYTHING was heavy! I bought the Gregory Shasta pack at 5 lb. 12 oz. because it was the lightest one that they had which would carry all my gear (MSR Whisperlite and stainless cookset, First Need water filter, 7 lb. two person tent, etc. My first piece of "ultralight" kit was MSR's titanium spoon, with cutouts to fit all the Whisperlite fittings. For a ti spoon, it's still pretty heavy, but I still carry it, handle bent, so it fits in my Evernew 1300ml titanium pot, which I use with my homemade alcohol stove. Next, I ditched my custom Limmer 6 lb. boots in favor of light boots, then low top hikers, then trail runners, and, lately, minimalist zero drop shoes, frameless pack, etc. I might be a little light on the pack side of things for an AT section hike as I begin to add back in a few comfort items (bigger tarp is on wish list, DCF, of course, and, maybe a longer hammock, with a bigger bug net, etc.). I might just have to go back to a frame pack, especially since I usually carry a small guitar. It never ends...🙄
The best gear guide is personal experience That takes lots of dirt time, long miles and nights and nights under canvas. So there will always developments in gear. Then how much can you afford versus the weight of the gear and how much are you prepared to spend. So you now wishes are only a result of buying gear that was good at the time you purchased
Yep 👍 I’ve got 4 backpacks and 4 tents 🤦♂️🤣 funny thing is the My Trail 50 that I bought 2nd after my big Osprey is still the pack I use 90% of the time. And not just backpacking but traveling and as a day pack . And 3 sets of trekking poles .
As someone who’s half of their family lives in Wisconsin & grew up in Oostburg & Sheboygan, I love your content, would love to meet you one day Dan, God bless you sir
The most frustrating thing for me is buying a new shiny thing, trying it out and then I end up switching back to my old one. Things I wish I bought sooner... my pack (better padding on the straps) and better fitting shoes. Everyone has unique body shapes so certain things are better fitting and more comfortable than others.
Jeroen Wienk That’s the best solution if you intend to finish the double portion Mountain House (or other brand meal). I usually wind up with about a third left to go with the coffee in the morning. No food poisoning so far. That resealable package won’t work for storage if you cut it off. Just a different option.
The intro is me spot on... just subbed and excited to be part of the crew Dan. This video popped up on my recommended and I’m stoked to have stumbled upon someone that I can relate to. I started out a “gear whore” based off of reviews and research as well. I would spend countless hours each night after work just watching reviews and this was back in 2012 mind you, and I always found myself asking the question prior to any gear purchase of whether I should save up and get the latest and greatest or settle for a piece of gear that is within my budget. It helped me in finding the right piece of gear for any situation or even mission specific. I’ll be watching more! Great informational video!
Hammocks are the best.... IF..... you are willing to put in the time to learn to hang them properly and dial in the right length/width/sag for you. AND IF.... you know you can hang where you're going. If there aren't good trees around, you'll be much more comfortable in a tent, IMO.
Very Good Dan! I have gone through most of these phases over the years with gear. I'm now back to being a little over ultralight for comfort and a couple of luxury items. I still like my hammock, but someday I'll do a little tent camping again.
If you want a pack built to last try a pack by Warrior assault systems a British company that build decent packs.Also older Blackhawk packs heavy but bombproof
I wish...this video existed years ago! But it's trial and error for each hiker to figure out what their preferences are and what works best for them. Oh, and Nemo tensor insulated 25" all the way!!
Interesting take on the hammock vs the tent. For us West Coast/Sierra hikers the hammock isn't really an option. Way too many areas in the Sierra where finding two tree's is an issue, particularly over 10500'. Also, love my Toaks long handle titanium spoon. Just slide into the side of my bear canister (i think something else us Sierra hikers have to deal with these days). Just 19g and probably longer than your snap together wooden option. Loved your thoughts on the backpack. What do you think about the GossamerGear Mariposa???
Funny how the camera gear all adds up. Gear evolution is a funny thing...so much stuff I don't know what to do with it. I'm finally dialed in and right back into my 30yo spectra pack. I started in a tent and tried the hammock...not for me. Cute spoon. My fav is an old long disposable wendy's spoon. Great vid.
I find the living space under a tarp to be more freeing than the living space of a tent, but after 3 years of hammocking I am now in the market for a superlight tent, because there aren't always trees!
Can you release more videos along the lines of “your gear is fine the way it is get out and have fun”. My wallet hates you 😂. Great video Dan :). I got myself a Sierra designs sweet suite 3 the other day 50% off. Can’t wait to get out there once some restrictions lift!
Great video ! My gear is always evolving and I appreciate videos that touch on experience and the reasons why you use the gear you have . Happy Hiking !
Hallo, I m looking for an ultralight tarp to use it instead of a tent.I usually go camping in the summer season, so i need it for sun protection mainly. I ve check the sea to summit escapist and the sea to summit jungle tarp but i dont know which is the best for me.Have you any thoughts?
Very nice! Like the observations. If you were to get a two person lightweight tent for tall people (6’2”) plus their gear and two 25” wide pads (Nemo Tensor), what would you lean towards? $300-500 range. Curious. Thx.
Just push food down into bottom of mre once cooked then tear bag in half then no need for long spoon.....Are there any items you wish you never bought?
There is a hobby in gear itself. It is fun but don’t let it ruin the point of enjoying the outdoors! Get out have fun with friends with the gear you need! Dont go out with junk, but get basics then learn from there
thanks again Dan Becker! I'm about to order a HMG 3400 Southwest backpack as my first backpack I'm actually purchasing and not getting handed down to me. Lets go backpack tho!! plan a trip for your followers and post a vid!!
LOVE my 3400 Southwest. For me it was "I can't afford a backpack for weekend trips and another for 2 week trips...and come hell or high water I am going to do the JMT and I will need to carry a bear canister..." Basically I wanted a single backpack that would do everything. While obviously that is not possible, weeks and weeks of research led me to the Southwest and I have been very pleased and have 0 regrets. On a quick weekend trip, I can cinch it down enough that it doesn't feel like I am totally in overkill mode. And when my son and I attempt the River to River next month, I know it will have no problem with an 8 day load out if I want. And yah...I am also looking into a wider pad - and I TOTALLY agree on the hammock point - even the TH-cam rabbit hole darn you Sug why do you have to be so charismatic?? Love my hammock, but definitely wish I had held off on it and gotten a top notch tent first. For just out and enjoying nature, there is nothing better than chilling in a hammock. However, for me, while backpacking the efficiency, simplicity and speed of a tent (now a tarp) can't be beat. Period. Use my hammock regularly and love it, but if I am going 'serious backpacking' I would be hard pressed to come up with a compelling reason to take it over my tarp.
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Does that only apply to new subscribers? I don't remember getting a cookie when I subscribed
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I have been a subscriber for a while, am I grandfathered into the cookie thing?
*chomp chomp chomp om nom chomp*
Are these “medicated” cookies?
I wish I had bought LESS gear sooner. I went all out buying gear before I had experience to know what I liked and what worked for me.
I predict Mr. & ms becker gonna throw down for a thru-hike
Same here 😂✌️
Exactly the best advice I heard that I ignored was go hike then buy the gear .
Alternate advice: as a beginner, focus more on getting out than buying gear. Use what you already have and go with friends who are experienced hikers or join a hiking meetup group. TH-cam hiking is about buying stuff rather than exploring. There’s a time for buying gear but I wouldn’t let that come in the way of getting out.
Yep! Bloody American consumerism
I think that's kind of the situation. Dan talks a lot about starting gear and this video is one specifically about starting or early acquisition gear. He's telling people that when they buy starting gear for their first hike to get things that facilitate comfort outside so people DO enjoy their first hikes with groups or friends. You'd be amazed how many people buy a ton of expensive gear for lightweight camping, go out once, hate it because they bought a ton of uncomfortable gear, and never go again. This is kind of talking about not listening to TH-camrs who say to go with one camp and to buy things you think will be the best for you.
I COMPLETELY agree with this sentiment. But I will add that sometimes certain gear is essential, obviously, and I read this video as advice on what he wished he had focused on instead of needless buys.
when you are over 30 it doesnt work like that. you have enough money to afford stuff, but have no time. so making that free time as comfortable as possible takes priority over fucking around.
An alternative view: Good gear and the right gear keeps you safe and makes your outdoor adventures enjoyable. If you are miserable when you are just getting out there with what you already have, then that might ruin the experience for you or worse.
Gear I should have bought sooner: Trekking poles!! For whatever reason I was worried about looking like an old man with them, but boy do they help in many different situations! Love the videos Dan, Keep it up!
Matt Bundt - LOL - I bought a Tarptent (uses hiking poles) to cover the fact I needed hiking poles - Doctors recommendation as I've gotten older
Stan Locke haha, love it!
So true
Indeed I also thought they were only for older people but trekking poles are essential. No way I could wade across a river with strong current and water up to my stomach without Trekking poles. They are also useful when you are walking down a mountain and are forced to balance on big stones.
My friends and I are young but we will use sets of trekking poles if we have a full pack, we've used them to help make it through the woods when trying not to ruin our night vision when hiking during new moons.
Hey Dan, I love your videos and have learned a lot from them. I’ve always been a forest/
Outdoor gal, but only recent,y started backpacking 3 years ago. My first trip was with a $50 pack, $30 bag, $20 pad, etc., from amazon and then of course, packed with too much stuff. I not only survived that trip, I was hooked, and quickly started getting “real gear”. Of course I was influenced by the ultralight stuff and have my fair share of those accessories, some useful, some, not so much. It is difficult to justify spending $500+ on major items like the tent and pack, when I love mine, but they are not light. I’m 57, or 58, or 57...can’t recall, but anyway, I would LOVE to see you interview some older female hikers and their views on light vs. comfort, etc. I can’t find many out there. Heck, I may do my own review sometime, but at my age, I worry about the support some of these lighter packs have.
When the Xlite came out, it was the best, and it continued to be for a year or maybe more. Nobody else was making an inflatable pad that good. But then the competition caught up and now there are several inflatables just as good, and a couple that are better. I've got a collection of them now, constantly looking for the "one" that will let me sleep comfortably through the night when I tent camp. The Nemo Tensor wide was the first that got there for me, so I think my days of pad collecting are finally over.
Nemo Tensor is a winner
The Sea to Summit Ether Light XT is amazingly comfortable and light as well. I have the long/wide rectangular insulated version, and it's absolutely glorious, but only 1.5 pounds.
Yesssss! The wider sleeping pad! I thought "oh no! It's 6 ounces heavier!" and then when I tested it out in my house, I wasn't falling off and waking up (I'm a side sleeper that tosses and turns). So happy with my new pad, (aside from the fact I didn't realize it wasn't the insulated version, my baaaaaad). Now I just have that extra pad for anybody who wants to go with me and has no gear.
🙌🙌
I love going through a busy back country campground to see the variety of old and new tents. Love the old ones. I refuse to replace my 20 year old REI QuarterDome 3p tent. For its size I’m amazed it comes in at 3 pounds. I love that tent and the memories I’ve had using it!
Nemo Tensor insulated! Just wait till you get to camp and get it ready in a minute or less without even having to blow directly in it. Plus it’s really quiet and comfortable. 🤙
+1 on that. I have both the standard and insulated. Much quieter than my Xlite, and they are just a tiny bit thicker on the sides than in the middle which helps keep you "nestled" in the middle of the pad. I haven't woken up in the middle of the night half on and half off the pad, which is a big plus. And I think the finish of the top surface feels really nice - very soft.
Tensor all the way. Thumbs-up.
Just got one and I’m so happy with it!
Ben Hancock such a great pad 👌
Same here for the Sea-To-Summit Ether Lite XT Large. Using the sack pump I can get the thing filled properly with just 6 breaths. I remember blowing up a thick 2-person air mattress with my mouth back when I was young (at festivals, not on hiking trips) and nearly passing out. Quite the change of pace.
The intro is so insightful. Just looked at 2 hiking channels on youtube and both of them had different recommendations yeach year.
2017 - ”this is the best tent and why I don’t use a stove!” 2019 - ”this is why a bivak is better than a tent and why I use a stove”
There IS bad gear and good gear (for example when it comes to battery packs) but sometimes it’s just about taste, and your taste may vary from year to year.
Sometimes you gotta go through a journey for yourself and try X before you switch to Y
Mors Kochanski recommended the biggest spoon you could get for going into the bush. I got a sterling silver spoon from a set of silverware that had been sold piecemeal secondhand, and this cook spoon looked like it had been barely used. It was long and large. Silver helps knock down bacteria should cleanliness be a factor in the field, but it is a perfect size at 9 inches long, and won't melt in the fire by accident. Excellent spoon though the end is a bit large at 3 1/4 by 2 1/4 inches within the 9 inches overall. It provides utility and function for a lifetime of use.
Rich here- the badder half. For me, just getting into backpacking again at 66 I realize I cant do the 40-50# I did 20 years ago, but also have come to realize I need some comfort for sleeping. So going light on some things like using a North Star Bivy tent allowed me to cut weight, but now everything is the trade-off for something else- dialing in the lightest possible pack with the most comfort for sleeping. The challenge continues! Looking next at a 2# pack instead of the Ospery Silhouette 6#
My primary reason for using a tent is mosquito protection. If you're somewhere with a heavy mosquito population, having somewhere to shelter while you're changing clothes or taking a babywipe bath is a godsend.
I went through a long evolution of different packs and finally settled on the HMG Windrider. For me, the most comfortable lightweight pack that I’ve found. Simplistic and versatile. Love it!
Just bought the same pack and LOVE IT!!! (I am 5 feet tall with a long torso, so I finally sized myself properly AND saved about 2 lbs! Worth every penny.)
Love the “I’m going to take a paper bag, some dental floss and I’m gonna whittle a tent” HA!
Lean to with pine bows and logs 🤷♂️. Bam. Leaves for insulation. And toilet paper.
I am older now, well into my 60s. I regularity hike the White Mountains of NH and the trails are steep and have no switch back so light gear is important. When I started, I had rubber rain gear and all my gear was heavy. Today even average gear from REI, EMS etc. will do. If your new just get out and do it. See if you like it. There is plenty of time for 400.00 backpacks and 700.00 tents. Yes, I have all that costly gear but at this point I need them. If you are young and fit with no knee injuries you will be fine. You can always just walk back out if things are not good. I have done this a couple of times and never regretted it.
Quilts and Long Spoons have been the biggest game changers for me.
The Human Gear spoon/fork combo works great but it collects food in the joint where it slides together. When hiking in areas with limited water having to waste water to wash pots and utensils is a negative. I've since switched to a Toaks titanium long spoon and I no longer have to worry about disassembling and cleaning the spoon. All of my prepackaged meals get transferred to freezer bags and I wipe my spoon down with a wet wipe. This makes for a simple and lighter trash pile I have to carry out too.
I just got myself a Granite Gear Blaze 60 pack. It weighs 3 lbs and is rated to carry up to 50 lbs. At 30% off that GG is offering right now, I couldn't pass it up. Lighter than my Osprey Atmos 50, that I sold, and a bit more volume. I'm liking the change! I also just got an insulated wide/long sleep pad. It's heavier but it's so much more comfortable than the cheaper one I'd been using. It's a great time to buy camping/hiking gear right now!
I love love love the idea of a hammock. Hate sleeping in them though. As a stomach sleeper just cannot get comfortable.
What about a suspended bed system instead? That way you'll be off the ground and probably flat enough for stomach sleeping?
@@brianwilson8088 I've assumed they would be too heavy. Never actually looked into it though. Thanks.
@@komalley35 look into the Warbonnet bridge hammock. I don't have one, but my understanding is they lay more like a bed. If you contact them with questions they are quick to reply. I do have two Blackbird XLC's and I am happy with them and other gear I have bought from them. Good quality products.
Military surplus wet weather poncho, get a Woobie also.
45 degree sleeping bag in half the space, and a little lighter. Multi use also, quick shade on those hot days, etc.
As someone who has recently started backpacking, your videos have been a massive help in pointing me in the right direction! Keep up the great work!
Great video with some on point info. Just bought the HyperLite 2400 pack-lightweight and simple. Your plastic spoon and fork, sad story -plastic falls on ground, foot connects with it and you are eating everything as finger food for the rest of the trip- nope sticking with titanium long handle spoon. Tent verses hammock, my tent is lighter then my hammock and don’t have to worry about not having trees. Thanks for the videos, keep them coming to entertain us.
Hi Dan, I love this video. First I am not a "Backpacker." I have backpacked in Michigan including Isle Royal when I was much younger, I am 78 now. So I day hike and motorcycle camp.
One question if someone starts with a tent and finds it comfortable will the average person try a hammock? I started with tents and actually, I still have two. But about two years ago sleeping in a small tent became uncomfortable. I don't crawl and bend as well as I use to. So changing to hammock saved camping for me.
BTW I totally agree about the wider pad. I had a similar experience.
As to hammock camping: First getting a campsite with two appropriate trees is not a given even in Michigan not to mention going west through the plains. I had to devise a kind of lean-to shelter that attaches my tarp to the bike. Second It does take a bit of practice to get it right the one thing I wish I had done sooner is to buy an under-quilt.
Thanks for all your great videos.
I decided a while ago that while hammock camping is fun, my take on them is Hammock = more comfortable, less convenient, tent less comfortable, more convenient. I've done both and enjoyed both. But I opt more for the tent nowadays. Also, with that sleeping pad I found it to be very tough to sleep on and very noisy. Then a hiker told me the trick was to not fill it with as much air as possible, you have to have some give to it. So I tried that, and it was more comfortable and especially quieter. I even slept in my back yard to test out different air amounts.
Amen on the spoon. And I would add, a spoon is so much better than a spork. Sporks just don’t get deep into those corners of the bag to get those last morsels.
I got to admit it Dan, you got us all figured out. TH-cam has certainly influenced (manipulated) us all in our equipment selections. When you were describing yourself, you were describing me.
Really good points man! I have always been a tent guy. Dome style free standing one man tents to be exact. Started out years ago with a simple coleman one man. Weatherproofed it and it worked great for years. Then i went to a seirra designs clip flashlight older gen. Worked great but i couldn't sit up very well. Then bought a military acu digital camo ORC one man tent. Great little tent too for years but still not enough room and condensated quite a bit. Now i bought the big agnes copper spur hv ul 1 in olive 2019 version. Lightweight, super fast pitch, waterproof, tons of room, packs fairly small. Any tent will work but spend the extra money and get what you know is good and would work for you the first time around and save yourself the hassel. Its worth it! Stay safe! Hike on!
I sleep exclusively in hammocks 10 feet off the ground. Sometimes 15ft depending on terrain.
This is a good video. I love the relaxed mentality toward backpacking and the fact your videos aren’t complete product product dumps. “Sales”....
This video should have been out 3 years ago when I started out 😆 has sea to summit ultralight and Neo air slight and finally the Nemo Tensor non insulated, never look back since. Thanks for sharing and your natural humour !
I love my hammock but looking forward to getting on the trail with my godson and a tent is really the only way to go. Tenting isn’t bad with the right equipment and then use the hammock when with the guys. Really looking forward to getting the HMG 4400 soon too. Can’t wait to get back on the trails!!!!! Thank you
The Zpacks Arc Haul NOT the blast is the best on the market IMO! I think you will love the Haul much better than your blast Dan and even the HMG as well!
I'm pretty much just getting started but one mistake I think I made already is getting a 3/4 length sleeping mat. I gave it a test and it's both comfortable and really lightweight, but I didn't realise the role they play in keeping you warm too. Although one guy recommended putting one of those light silver foil mats underneath so that might help.
Really like this video. Especially the moments you talk about other TH-cam hiker channels. After all, hiking is such an individual experience. I think you do a great job of pointing this out. Continue on, sir
I have a lot of super nice tent camping gear but once I bought a nice lay flat hammock and tarp setup I'm not tent camping much anymore! Thanks for the video Dan!
Talk to any service member and ask them what they do with the long and narrow MRE meal bags and use the standard spoon.... (pssst) we cut the bag from the side (lengthwise). No more food on our fingers.
I lucked out and found DB's channel before I bought too much stuff. I have a nemo tensor, UGQ quilt, Big Agnes UL tent, but my backpack is a bit heavy (Gregory 65L something or other). Of course I haven't hiked anywhere with all this new equipment and lock down messing up my plans. But I have some really nice backyard camping equipment!
“The” lightweight backpack that can also carry heavier gear is the Osprey Exos! We just got back from the Grand Canyon and had to carry a resupply down to a drop point. All 3 of us have the EXOS and with the resupply we carried weights in the upper 50 lb range. The Exos handled it like a champ. I’m eying the Hyperlite but am not ready to ditch the proven Exos yet. Also agree with you on a wider sleeping pad. A UGQ quilt, a silk liner, an Outdoor Vitals pillow, and the Thermarest NeoAir Xlite Reg/Wide Sleep Pad make for a great sleep system. I’m a huge fan of freestanding tents due to I love camping above tree line at high alpine lakes. The Marmot Tungsten UL 1p works for me. It’s bomb proof, affordable, and light enough for me! Good conversation...
Do a video on you hiking backpacking storage solutions. AKA the closet behind you.
That video exists!
th-cam.com/video/JnE2H48o43A/w-d-xo.html
I agree with you about the spoon. A long spoon is one of my prized gear items! Wish I'd bought trekking poles sooner.
I am ultralight and love it! But you are spot on with the wide sleeping pad. I must have spent a years wage on sleeping pads to figure that out.
I did a lot of backpacking without these, but now the gear I should have bought sooner: trekking poles, down puffy jacket, small pocket knife, trail runners, buff, inflatable ground pad (no more foam pads for me).
I have been looking for a lightweight backpack that can carry a heavier load for awhile now. My current bag is a 70L osprey aether that weighs almost 5lbs.
The only lightweight bags that I can find that carries a heavier load that doesn't break the bank are:
ULA Catalyst 75L. Max weight: 40lbs
SD Flex Capacitor 60L. Max weight 50lbs
Exped Lightning 60L. Max weight 52lbs
Great vid.
It's part of the learning process. Sometimes you don't know what you need - and sometimes not even what's actually out there - until you have a bad experience.
PADS: With sleep pads, you think the 20" is a standard go-to width based on the fact that just about all YT thru-hikers are skinny little bastards who often look bigger on the screen. I'm very broad across the shoulders. I'm definitely down with the 25" wide pads. Of course, I have to bratwurst myself into a standard sleeping bag, so I'm thinking of shifting to a wide (55") quilt. But for pads, I'll admit I've pretty much been at the mercy of what they're unloading at the REI garage sales. I'm not spending $160 on a friggin balloon. But because of those sales I've now got four pads ranging from R-3.2 to R-5.2 that I bought for about $60, total, including the price of the $5 patch kit I used to fix them all. And three of them are 25" wide. The one that isn't? That first one. :)
TENTS: Right now I'm waiting on the new REI Flash Air 2P hybrid tent (1lb., 15 oz., $240 with member discount during current sale). It will be my third on this odyssey. With my solo backpacker tent, I learned that I don't mind trekking pole-supported shelters, but that a 1P is barely bigger than a sleep pad and the vestibules usually rarely fit more than boots. With the free-standing 2P one that I took up Mount Whitney, I learned that when the mesh doesn't start until 2/3 of the way up the walls, you're not getting enough ventilation when you camp at 10,000 feet and still have a few hours of sunlight to deal with. I'm currently looking to sell both of those. Hopefully I won't find enough wrong with the REI to want to replace IT in a couple of years.
UTENSIL: I did the long titanium spoon thing, but you learn very quickly whether you can stand having something that long and awkward when you can find something more easily packable. I switched to the GoBites Duo in this vid. For those who are concerned, it not only unfolds longer than those titanium spoons, but the strength does not suffer by virtue of it being a two-piecer.
Take care.
Lol “living space of a tent.” I can’t agree with you more.
But if you only use it for sleep you aren’t “living” in it. Lol I’ve actually lived in a tent before in the mount hood forest for half a year. Apparently there is a law saying you have to move amp spots every 14 days. I over stayed my welcome and forest service found me and gave me a fine. 😂
For the spoon issue: You can cut the bag down to a bowl after making your food.
As a new backpacker, this video is really useful!
If you like that utensil, it's the GoBites Duo. It weighs next to nothing and I think it still runs only $6.95.
I love my titanium 750ml pot and long handle spork, but I've changed to a 900ml non-stick pot and long handle plastic spoon. Why? Easy cleaning. Everything gets washed out with a little water, 2 drops of dish washing liquid, and vigorous shaking with the lid on. And folding/collapsible cutlery are just horrible because food gets stuck in the connections and require scrubbing.
Pro Tip: roll the dehydrated meal bags down, towards the inside (so you don't get food all over) and you can easily reach the bottom.
I've taken a hammock out before we a nicer place to sit and relax, but never as my primary shelter. Mainly because I often end up above the tree line. Seems nice though.
+1 for the wider sleeping pad ... I also had the Neo X Lite. man, wide pads and even sleeping COTS!! If I knew about sleeping cots earlier! I'd be so much more comfy! (I'm a motorcycle tourer so I can be a little heavier, but not too heavy still) .
I just finished the PCT and found that a large amount of hikers regretted this pack did not due well with heavy loads at all, straps were biggest complaint. I used a lite4f same issues total weight during hike 28 pounds with water and food. And light yes but never carried well. Least complaints on trail were ospreys owner, probably due to not spending a fortune on there packs ha ha. In reality they carry heavy loads better. Oh ya seriously a lot of failures on this pack also stitching strap breakage. My suffered same issues.
That’s some true stuff you got going.. I completely agree with you. The kids, the kids and a tent. I really appreciated your channel and I feel exactly like you. Big up from Sweden 🇸🇪
First backpacking gear video that I can completely agree with, except that, when I started doing longer hikes in the early '90s, EVERYTHING was heavy! I bought the Gregory Shasta pack at 5 lb. 12 oz. because it was the lightest one that they had which would carry all my gear (MSR Whisperlite and stainless cookset, First Need water filter, 7 lb. two person tent, etc. My first piece of "ultralight" kit was MSR's titanium spoon, with cutouts to fit all the Whisperlite fittings. For a ti spoon, it's still pretty heavy, but I still carry it, handle bent, so it fits in my Evernew 1300ml titanium pot, which I use with my homemade alcohol stove. Next, I ditched my custom Limmer 6 lb. boots in favor of light boots, then low top hikers, then trail runners, and, lately, minimalist zero drop shoes, frameless pack, etc. I might be a little light on the pack side of things for an AT section hike as I begin to add back in a few comfort items (bigger tarp is on wish list, DCF, of course, and, maybe a longer hammock, with a bigger bug net, etc.). I might just have to go back to a frame pack, especially since I usually carry a small guitar.
It never ends...🙄
The best gear guide is personal experience
That takes lots of dirt time, long miles and nights and nights under canvas.
So there will always developments in gear.
Then how much can you afford versus the weight of the gear and how much are you prepared to spend.
So you now wishes are only a result of buying gear that was good at the time you purchased
Take a look at the Granite Gear Blaze 60. 3lbs, 60L, 50 lbs load capacity and you can get it for $200 on sale. Beast of a pack
Yep 👍 I’ve got 4 backpacks and 4 tents 🤦♂️🤣 funny thing is the My Trail 50 that I bought 2nd after my big Osprey is still the pack I use 90% of the time. And not just backpacking but traveling and as a day pack . And 3 sets of trekking poles .
0:03 "I love hiking and backpacking gear hehe" I felt that
As someone who’s half of their family lives in Wisconsin & grew up in Oostburg & Sheboygan, I love your content, would love to meet you one day Dan, God bless you sir
The most frustrating thing for me is buying a new shiny thing, trying it out and then I end up switching back to my old one. Things I wish I bought sooner... my pack (better padding on the straps) and better fitting shoes. Everyone has unique body shapes so certain things are better fitting and more comfortable than others.
In regards to the spoon problem. I always have a knife on me. I just cut the top off the dehydrated food pack and use my regular spork :).
Jeroen Wienk That’s the best solution if you intend to finish the double portion Mountain House (or other brand meal). I usually wind up with about a third left to go with the coffee in the morning. No food poisoning so far. That resealable package won’t work for storage if you cut it off. Just a different option.
When I eat bagged food my spoon is too short also so I just take a knife, cut the bag shorter as I eat, and I don't need the long backward spoon.
The intro is me spot on... just subbed and excited to be part of the crew Dan. This video popped up on my recommended and I’m stoked to have stumbled upon someone that I can relate to. I started out a “gear whore” based off of reviews and research as well. I would spend countless hours each night after work just watching reviews and this was back in 2012 mind you, and I always found myself asking the question prior to any gear purchase of whether I should save up and get the latest and greatest or settle for a piece of gear that is within my budget. It helped me in finding the right piece of gear for any situation or even mission specific. I’ll be watching more! Great informational video!
Hammocks are the best.... IF..... you are willing to put in the time to learn to hang them properly and dial in the right length/width/sag for you. AND IF.... you know you can hang where you're going. If there aren't good trees around, you'll be much more comfortable in a tent, IMO.
So with you on the sleeping pad... I hate my 20" wide pad and just got the Nemo Tensor 25 and love it
Very Good Dan! I have gone through most of these phases over the years with gear. I'm now back to being a little over ultralight for comfort and a couple of luxury items. I still like my hammock, but someday I'll do a little tent camping again.
Would you able to make a video on how you carry all you camera gear on your hyperlite pack?
Oh man! I have that spoon/fork combo and never thought about it connecting the other way!
If you want a pack built to last try a pack by Warrior assault systems a British company that build decent packs.Also older Blackhawk packs heavy but bombproof
I wish...this video existed years ago! But it's trial and error for each hiker to figure out what their preferences are and what works best for them. Oh, and Nemo tensor insulated 25" all the way!!
Interesting take on the hammock vs the tent. For us West Coast/Sierra hikers the hammock isn't really an option. Way too many areas in the Sierra where finding two tree's is an issue, particularly over 10500'. Also, love my Toaks long handle titanium spoon. Just slide into the side of my bear canister (i think something else us Sierra hikers have to deal with these days). Just 19g and probably longer than your snap together wooden option. Loved your thoughts on the backpack. What do you think about the GossamerGear Mariposa???
To each person their own. I absolutely loathe sleeping on the ground. The last time I had to sleep on the ground, I was miserable.
Funny how the camera gear all adds up. Gear evolution is a funny thing...so much stuff I don't know what to do with it. I'm finally dialed in and right back into my 30yo spectra pack. I started in a tent and tried the hammock...not for me. Cute spoon. My fav is an old long disposable wendy's spoon. Great vid.
I find the living space under a tarp to be more freeing than the living space of a tent, but after 3 years of hammocking I am now in the market for a superlight tent, because there aren't always trees!
Just picked up the Nemo Wide pad Thanks for the tip most comfortable night sleep in the back country yet
It’s my favorite by far! Glad it worked out for you too!
"I'm going to whittle a tent" is the most under-rated Dan Becker quote of all time.
I hated the NeoAir XLite, it's narrow and too loud. Ended up with the Big Agnes Q-core SLX. It's thick, quiet, and has high sides so I don't roll off!
Can you release more videos along the lines of “your gear is fine the way it is get out and have fun”. My wallet hates you 😂. Great video Dan :). I got myself a Sierra designs sweet suite 3 the other day 50% off. Can’t wait to get out there once some restrictions lift!
Actually... I’m doing a video next week on that 😮😉🙌
SO if you had a choice between Tent or Hammock "no kids" which do you prefer hands down.
My wife heard your opening comments in the background, and she commented ok so it’s not only you....Lol thanks
I switched to a hammock because of back pain. I have a near 3" pad, but I still hurt. I would like to sleep well in a tent, but it hurts.
Great video ! My gear is always evolving and I appreciate videos that touch on experience and the reasons why you use the gear you have . Happy Hiking !
Hallo, I m looking for an ultralight tarp to use it instead of a tent.I usually go camping in the summer season, so i need it for sun protection mainly. I ve check the sea to summit escapist and the sea to summit jungle tarp but i dont know which is the best for me.Have you any thoughts?
Most of these ultralight packs didn't come with a internal frame which would really help in high altitude multi day trips
Wide pad is still on my list. I also like that human gear spoon/fork. Have a great week.
Very nice! Like the observations. If you were to get a two person lightweight tent for tall people (6’2”) plus their gear and two 25” wide pads (Nemo Tensor), what would you lean towards? $300-500 range. Curious. Thx.
Check out the Tarptent Double Rainbow. It will fit 2 - 25 in wide pads. It weighs 42 oz and costs $299.
Just push food down into bottom of mre once cooked then tear bag in half then no need for long spoon.....Are there any items you wish you never bought?
Thx Dan! I just ordered the long spoon ... thingy
There is a hobby in gear itself. It is fun but don’t let it ruin the point of enjoying the outdoors! Get out have fun with friends with the gear you need! Dont go out with junk, but get basics then learn from there
thanks again Dan Becker! I'm about to order a HMG 3400 Southwest backpack as my first backpack I'm actually purchasing and not getting handed down to me. Lets go backpack tho!! plan a trip for your followers and post a vid!!
This is the story of my hiking life! LOL Do you still love the HyperLite BP?
Just got my first down quilt set, so much more room in my bag now vs. Synthetics
Thanks for your interesting videos. Good advice! I just do occasional hikes. The other guys in the group do tougher hikes and keep shopping for gear.
Keep churning them out Dan, I took your advice before I bought anything and my experiences have been very good because of it.
I have that spoon/fork and really like it.
Yeah, going to a 25 inch wide pad made all the difference!
LOVE my 3400 Southwest. For me it was "I can't afford a backpack for weekend trips and another for 2 week trips...and come hell or high water I am going to do the JMT and I will need to carry a bear canister..." Basically I wanted a single backpack that would do everything. While obviously that is not possible, weeks and weeks of research led me to the Southwest and I have been very pleased and have 0 regrets. On a quick weekend trip, I can cinch it down enough that it doesn't feel like I am totally in overkill mode. And when my son and I attempt the River to River next month, I know it will have no problem with an 8 day load out if I want.
And yah...I am also looking into a wider pad - and I TOTALLY agree on the hammock point - even the TH-cam rabbit hole darn you Sug why do you have to be so charismatic?? Love my hammock, but definitely wish I had held off on it and gotten a top notch tent first. For just out and enjoying nature, there is nothing better than chilling in a hammock. However, for me, while backpacking the efficiency, simplicity and speed of a tent (now a tarp) can't be beat. Period. Use my hammock regularly and love it, but if I am going 'serious backpacking' I would be hard pressed to come up with a compelling reason to take it over my tarp.
Have the HMG windrider.. and I love it.
Did you ever try a SMD flight 40 pack? I'm thinking of getting something else and wondering how you rate it compared to your favourite pack.