I know the vids about packs, but I would have advised buying your shoes first. Then your shelter, then your sleep system, cook system, food bag, and just about anything else, and buy the pack last. A pack cover is useful if you're hiking in a desert area, or where there's a lot of blowing dust. Helps keep it out of the pack. For rain, though...no.
There is a pack out there for $23 dollars (Amazon), I own one, made by MODASE. Its a foldable travel pack and one owner took it on the AT for 1500 miles. 40-Liters. Cheap zippers but if not overloaded, they last. Been using mine all summet/fall. Highly recommended. If packed correctly and you keep the weight under 20 lbs, works very very well. Not kidding. Everyone I know that has bought one has been surprised. Really is a hidden gem. Comes in black, dk blue, pea green, and purple, when in stock. 18 oz.
I purchased the Crown 2 60 off Backcountry about a month ago. It’s the exact model Dan has, but it was on sale for $139. So far, I love it! I plan on taking it for a weeklong backpacking trip to Yosemite in the Fall. Would definitely recommend! 🤩😁
I have the Granite Gear 38 L and it was super cheap online. I paid about 135.00 and it been a great pack. I could easily go for a week with it. I recently upgraded to the Zpacks Arc Blast 55 mainly because I am older and want my pack weight as low as possible and the money was not an issue. With the additional upgrades the Arc Blast cost almost 400.00. You certainly don't need to spend that kind of money and I agree the 62 would be a great pack. The truth is when I am out on the trail, I don't really think about gear at all. On my last trip I ran into a couple of hikers who owned that pack, and they removed the brain and the plastic frame sheet dropping the pack weight to about 1.6lbs. There is a lot of very good light weight gear that is not super expensive. Backpacking once you have the gear is a very cheap adventure. I hike the Whites all the time and spend very little money, maybe 50.00 bucks over three days. Thanks, Dan, for your efforts.
I bought the Crown2 from Backcountry and the REI Flash 55 to compare the two. I really wanted to like the Crown2 based on the features but the inability to reach my smartwater bottles in the side pockets was a deal breaker for me. The Flash 55 on the other hand has a second smaller pocket for water bottles that is super easy to reach but still has the bigger pockets for tent poles, UL chair etc. So far I am very pleased with the Flash55!!! Great video as usual Dan, thank you!
Having purchased my first proper pack, an Osprey Rook 50, I think people starting off should definitely consider sizing up to a 60-70L pack (60 is probably fine). Unless you've got a lot of disposable income, your first gear is likely going to be twice as heavy and 50% more voluminous than most of the stuff talked about by TH-cam hikers. At least in Australia it's pretty rare to get a good deal on good gear so you really have to splash some cash to get the proper stuff like down sleeping bags and sub 2kg tents (even our own brand Sea2Summit doesn't give us a hometown discount!). Limitation sparks creativity so it isn't necessarily a bad thing to get a small pack but just keep in mind you wont be rocking too many creature comforts with a 45-50L pack and entry level gear.
I bought a deuter because their lifetime warranty no matter how old it is or how it was damaged theyll try to repair it or send u a new one of similar size. Got mine for under 200 during sales throughout the year
Dan, this is a great video on both backpacks. I constantly refer other backpackers to your sight when they ask for help with packs/ gear. Some of the some of the packers I refer come from Appalachian Trail Section Hikers. Looking for new gear.. Etc. Thx for the video. They just keep getting better. You are now on par with Dixie, of Homemade Wanderlust fame. Continue on, Sir.
Would be good to get a review on max weight that a backpack can hold comfortably before it begins to strain the material etc. Litres don't really mean anything to those of us who pack according to pounds or kgs.
Thanks for the review of the XC 60. Got mine on drop to use this season as I used the Osprey Stratos 50. It helped me drop around 2 pounds from base weight. Instead of pack cover also purchased a nylofume bag to line inside. Only negative is reaching water bottles while on trail. I love the HMG gear but not pulling trigger on that purchase yet. I am also eyeing the new(ish) Dan Durston Backpack. Cheers Dan!
Kinda late to the party, but I just got a Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40-60. Also a great bang-for-the-buck pack if you want something that can be used for a wide variety of things and you only lose out on some other minor features that can easily be rectified when compared to other packs.
I have an osprey backpack. I love mine. It’s a tad heavier but it rides very comfortably. Makes my gear feel like I have nothing on my back, and I have back problems. I am a big girl. Tall and heavy set. However that backpack is a small because I’m short waisted. So I def recommend getting fitted before you buy a pack. REI and other outfitters will let you try them out fully loaded with their pack stuffing with 40-60 lbs. I’m so glad I did it that way.
I got the Crown2 x60 (Drop model) last year on sale for $100. Other than a slightly sweatier back than my other packs cause, I love it. A 60+ liter pack at that price which weighs just over 2 lbs. seemed like exactly what I was looking for when I got it. Take care, Danno!
You're totally right Dan, that is a great backpack for the price. Over 600km on mine and going strong. You're not afraid to thrash it around because it didn't cost you a fortune and an argument with your wife. I highly recommend the Drop (Massdrop) version. The brain is detachable and turns into lumbar/fanny pack, however; I took the brain off as soon as I got it and never used it. Trim the straps, take out the plastic frame sheet and replace with a foam sit pad or even the airbeam frame (hard to find now) and you've got yourself a 950 gram or less framed backpack. Pretty amazing for $120. Section Hiker gave it a great review.
I got the crown 2 about 6 months ago for $120 on a sale, and while I am yet to use it for backpacking, I have taken it on a car camping trip with a friend and managed to fit all of the stuff I brought in it, so it is a big win for me.
Love your videos, Dan. I use a 3F UL backpack. It weighs under 3lbs. Its probably not the quality of the Hyperlite (for sure) or the Osprey or the Granite Gear but its only $56 and is very comfortable. I realize there are as many opinions as there are backpackers and this is mine. On another note, I was watching "Kylehateshiking" and he did a vid on you and he wondered why you have a lot of haters. I didn't know you did but my guess is its because you do such a good job in your videos and are so enthusiastic that others get a bit jealous. Again, just my opinion. Keep up the good work!
I think it's a mistake to start with a large backpack. It's the same mistake most of us make, because we will very likely bring tons more. I think 45L is the best volume to start and get discipline in from the get go. I recommend 3FUL gear (from China, if you don't already hate them) which is frameless and relatively budget depending on the model you fancy, and Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor which is framed, can carry from 40-60L, and very budget. I own the cheapest 3FUL backpack (under USD100), and would buy the Flex Capacitor if my size was in stock and shipping didn't cost more than half the price of the backpack itself LOL.
@@purplemonkeys11, I think it might be cheaper to buy them from Aliexpress, but the shipping costs might be different. You can compare them and pick the cheaper option.
Yeah going for Aliexpress and total cost will be 92.58 with tax/shipping included. I hope that the quality will be at least ok. I would hate to wait a month and upon arrival the product is absolute garbage.
@@purplemonkeys11, that's the cheapest model which you're supposed to use a foam folding sleeping pad as the "frame" right? That's an awesome model, especially if you're significantly taller than 170cm. I don't use foam sleeping pads, plus I'm quite small for a guy, so it doesn't fit me properly, but I removed the foam pads from the side pouches and stacked them in the base back net to create a gap. I get problems when the pack isn't fully loaded up, like when my food supply runs down, then I can't pull on the load lifters because they are already fully utilized. I have to fill the pack up more vertically, so I use 2 long velcro straps around the lower and upper sections of the pack to strap the contents in place. Still a great cheap pack.
@@jdshl8423 Great to hear! Yeah, the foam mat frame is actually my biggest concern, through my backpacking trips I couldn't stand a foam pad. I will see how it feels backpacking without one and if worst comes I might find some cheap padding to fill for support. There's someone on Aliexpress saying how the cinch cords were basically useless and it broke for him in his second hike. Hopefully that wont be me lol.
Just returned from a short overnight where I carried the Granite Gear Crown2 38. Really enjoy the smaller size compared to the 60. I am more or less dialed in with my loadouts. Although I don't use the smallest and lightest items, I still have enough space even when I bring extra stuff!
Dan, you're the Man. Another useful video. I have a macpac, a New Zealand made back pack using cordura. It's a beast weighing about 2.4 kg but it's tough. After 5 years am thinking about an upgrade even though everything I have has got lighter. All except me...
If you want a 60L version (which easily compresses to sub-20L), the Massdrop x Granite Gear Crown X60 has the best feature set and is about the same price. It's on Drop.com often, request it if it's out!
Man I almost pulled the trigger on the southwest 3400.... But since I'm a beginner I ended up going with the crown blaze 60... Because I found 2 long term reviews of the hyperlite gear and they both ended up getting beat up and water leakage just like any pack.... Now if hyperlite had a lifetime warranty like osprey I would have got it because the fantasy of having a dry back pack is very alluring.... Subbed!
The Crown 2 is $128 on Amazon right now if you’re flexible on color. If you remove the frame and brain, like your Hyperlight, it’s under two pounds as well. GGC2 is an unbelievable value.
The $128 GG Crown2 60 pack is the old version, different material and very slightly heavier than the $199 new model (which goes on sale for $149 occasionally). I bought it and returned it for the newer version (on sale). The new black version has different side pouches as well so check that out if you're serious about ordering one. My only complaint is that there are no straps/buckles on the bottom for a tent or foam pad to attach. I have added some shock cord loops on the back and brain to aid in bungying extra gear or wet items.
Have the GG Crown 2. Lots of week long carries. Lots of PCT miles. Big fan. Carried 7 days of food for two people in it Last year. Advice. When in excess of 30 pounds...the thin & narrow shoulder straps dig in a bit unless the weight is VERY close to your spine. When the food is packed horizontally along your spine...the thin shoulder straps aren’t pulling back as bad. Also, just purchased the shoulder pads from Zpacks...that should help too.
Most of my backpacks are Osprey, but for a budget UL I went with the 3FUL 40+16. I filled it with UL budget gear and came up with a setup weighing 14.7 lbs for $500, including clothes.
I have the Exos 48 as well and it is a cracking backpack, the most I squeezed in there was about 22 kilos (it was a long section of a thru hike) and it was still comfortable. I have never heard anyone else call the top pouch "the brain" before, that's exactly what I call it myself, usually gets a laugh at camp. I have used on the thru hike of Te Araroa and intend to use it for the PCT as well as my upcoming 3 month hike of my homeland in Scotland. Just to add, the brain section of the Exos I keep detached and inside the bag with various bits and bobs in there, I find it helps stop me filling up the bag with crap I don't need.
What a superb video. Thank you for all your efforts...and enthusiasm. I was struggling to choose between the osprey 48 and 58 but I might just go with the granite gear. Not quite ready for the expensive one yet :(
I still use my Exos 48. best backpack ever. I also have several ultralight options, and also a heavy fjallraven Keb 52, but the exos48 is still my goto for longer hikes. the pack does it all
I got the Crown x60 from Massdrop last year. LOVE it. At the time I picked it up for $120 (less $20 first time customer discount.) Did a 4 day trip 2 weeks ago and it carried great with 30lbs with food and water (2L). Going to use it for a 6 day 60 mile trip this summer (should be 35lbs).
I started w an osprey ag atmos 50. it was an Ebay buy, and I did have some 'heavier' gear so I needed a pack to carry that. As my sleep systems and tent improved, I moved to a ULA Circuit. Its less then half the weight, but BOTH have their pros and cons. I like having options.
Hey Dan, the smaller GraniteGear Crown2 38 is now only $99.95 at Granite Gear, also there is 30% off site wide.Great packs,you also didn’t mention that the lid,frame and hip belt are removable, to be able to make an ultralight frameless.Thanks for the vids!
Thanks D I’m a big fan off your channel I’ve been hiking/camping a lot lately Wanted to get a custom altra light pack, but didn’t have the patience to wait 8 weeks to get it So I got the Opsrey Exco 58 Fully loaded I’m surprised how light weight & how the weight is evenly distributed to make the pack feel light In the past I had a Teton 3700 ultra light But it wasn’t so light weight & brutal a on a 2 day 14m hike I gotta day the Exco 58 is awesome Not to say that I’ll keep upgrading Thanks D
I have 3 big backpacks, first an osprey 130L second backpack is a Karrimor SF 155L and just purchased a Kelty Eagle 128l backpack as I'm a big lad 6'2 and I just like having everything in my pack to hand and for me it's worth the extra effort to carry all my gear
Totally agreed, put your money into your pack and when you get to camp at night, your back won't be sore, and keep you up all night. I love budget gear, just not my backpack. I like my back better. Thanks for the info.
Just a small dyneema bag. No extra lenses. Here’s the camera gear: MAIN CAMERA amzn.to/2UJ6IQi MAIN LENS amzn.to/2sysGVC VLOGGING LENS amzn.to/2TyvS1K ND FILTER amzn.to/2DR26wM ZOOM LENS amzn.to/2XWeOCf GIMBAL amzn.to/2Lm38VK TRAIL MIC amzn.to/2FGD9Gj TALKING HEAD MIC amzn.to/2CrjsPt TRIPOD (FULL SIZE) amzn.to/2u9iQhj TRIPOD (SMALL) amzn.to/2DOaf55 DRONE amzn.to/2Ug7nHu CAMERA CLIP FOR BACKPACK amzn.to/2VjlihB
Good to great backpacks that are comparitively cheap... military surplus. They tend to be heavy, but they tend to be bombproof. They are also full of PALS, ALiCE, and/MOLLE webbing for add on gear/space/organization.
Quick question... not quite related (other than I will be using a granite gear crown 2). How do you attach your inreach mini? I have seen it in many of your videos near your shoulder. Are you just using the carabiner to connect? Just got mine and will be using it next week with the crown2 and wanted to make sure that that carabiner on a backpack strap holds securely.
0:59 As a beginner, novice Hiker I have REPEATEDLY heard, "Buy the pack last," but never really understood why until this video. And inasmuch as I want to eventually get a HMG bag, I know it makes more sense to start with a cheaper, budget option then eventually upgrade later as I become more experienced & dial in my gear.
Beginner backpacker here. I have a HMG backpack and it is worth every cent. Bomb proof, water proof, and light weight. I even pushed its weight limit on a 5 day hike. I wish I had started out with it.
So I am getting ready to get a new backpack. I am eyeing the HLMG 3400 Southwest. Most of my gear is lightweight. I am getting ready to do 4 or 5 days in the Sierra and I will need to carry a bear can. I am currently using the Osprey 58 and I am finding the straps cutting into my shoulders. Do you think the HLMG has comfortable straps? There may be days that I need to carry more than 30 ads due to water or maybe extra food. I want to make sure the backpack can carry extra weight. Thoughts. Love your videos. Love your energy.
Do you have an opinion on the Gossamer Gear Mariposa vs. any of the HMG Packs? I need to carry a heavy load (zpacks triplex) and I hear a lot of good thing about the Mariposa pack, but wish it were dyneema.
a side question. what is the reason some small (around 15 litres) hiking backpacks are of the reverse triangular shape (bottom is narrower than the top)? thanks
Wow beautiful LaCross!! We are from Rice Lake and Cumberland WI. Love this video!!! We now live in Norris Lake, TN. So Dan, REI measured me and I need a xsmall size 16 backpack and maximum I will carry is 25 lbs.. what would you recommend? Thanks!! Nancy
Excellent an informative Dan. I have a ULA OHM 2. but I'm here to tell you one of the best little backpacks that I still use for a weekender is the Walmart brand 47 liter El cheapo pack coming in at $35.99 HOT DAMN!! My dear is all dialed down pretty tight. And I can pack that baby at seventeen or eighteen pounds for 3 night trip. I agree the more pockets you have the more crap you take along. I agree definitely get that sleep system before the pack. ✌️💜
I went to La Crosse for college, beautiful city with great hiking. What is your favorite spot in Wisconsin to backpack? I am thinking of going to the national forest up north!
The bone on the back of your neck that you measure your bag from is the seventh cervical vertebrae. Its the last bone before your "neck ends and your back starts". (Physical Therapist Assistant)
I just purchased the crown 2 last week. My 3FUL frameless was killing my shoulders whenever I had to pack a lot of water. Doesn't help when my shoulders were higher than the load lifters.
A pack that is too short for your torso is brutal on your shoulders. I used to work at REI and sold packs to lots of people who had chosen a pack online that was way too short and they were so happy to purchase one that actually fit and was comfortable fully loaded.
I can certainly understand not remembering what's in which pocket. In my normal EDC I use a pack with a lot of pockets and I had to develop the muscle memory to remember what was where, now it's not a problem. If you're always using the same gear in the same spots the memory will develop. Good luck on the trail and everywhere else too.
used the crown2 on my thru hike of the AT last year. the adjustable hip belt is the best feature. especially when you lose 25 pounds on the trail lol
Very cool! Would you have used it again?
@@DanBecker that's a big yes.
Dan Becker my husband is looking into a Kelty backpack do you know anything about them?
@@DanBecker it's the pack I have and I love it. I think it's light enough and sturdier than some dynema
I have the 38L version my scale shows it at 31.2 ounces. I’ve had for a couple years and it’s my go to. Highly recommend it.
I know the vids about packs, but I would have advised buying your shoes first. Then your shelter, then your sleep system, cook system, food bag, and just about anything else, and buy the pack last. A pack cover is useful if you're hiking in a desert area, or where there's a lot of blowing dust. Helps keep it out of the pack. For rain, though...no.
One thing you forgot to mention is that sometimes you can find gently used gear for much less than the price of brand new.
where ? on ebay? im looking for gently used
Fb market
There is a pack out there for $23 dollars (Amazon), I own one, made by MODASE. Its a foldable travel pack and one owner took it on the AT for 1500 miles. 40-Liters. Cheap zippers but if not overloaded, they last. Been using mine all summet/fall. Highly recommended. If packed correctly and you keep the weight under 20 lbs, works very very well. Not kidding. Everyone I know that has bought one has been surprised. Really is a hidden gem. Comes in black, dk blue, pea green, and purple, when in stock. 18 oz.
Wow! I’ll check it out!
Pea green?😳thats a first but i like it! 🤗😂😂
I picked up a Crown2, dropped my back weight by about 1/3, LOVE it!
I purchased the Crown 2 60 off Backcountry about a month ago. It’s the exact model Dan has, but it was on sale for $139. So far, I love it! I plan on taking it for a weeklong backpacking trip to Yosemite in the Fall. Would definitely recommend! 🤩😁
I have the Granite Gear 38 L and it was super cheap online. I paid about 135.00 and it been a great pack. I could easily go for a week with it. I recently upgraded to the Zpacks Arc Blast 55 mainly because I am older and want my pack weight as low as possible and the money was not an issue. With the additional upgrades the Arc Blast cost almost 400.00. You certainly don't need to spend that kind of money and I agree the 62 would be a great pack. The truth is when I am out on the trail, I don't really think about gear at all. On my last trip I ran into a couple of hikers who owned that pack, and they removed the brain and the plastic frame sheet dropping the pack weight to about 1.6lbs. There is a lot of very good light weight gear that is not super expensive. Backpacking once you have the gear is a very cheap adventure. I hike the Whites all the time and spend very little money, maybe 50.00 bucks over three days. Thanks, Dan, for your efforts.
I bought the Crown2 from Backcountry and the REI Flash 55 to compare the two. I really wanted to like the Crown2 based on the features but the inability to reach my smartwater bottles in the side pockets was a deal breaker for me. The Flash 55 on the other hand has a second smaller pocket for water bottles that is super easy to reach but still has the bigger pockets for tent poles, UL chair etc. So far I am very pleased with the Flash55!!! Great video as usual Dan, thank you!
Not being able to reach the water bottles with it on is the one constant I have in the negative column for this pack. Agree
Having purchased my first proper pack, an Osprey Rook 50, I think people starting off should definitely consider sizing up to a 60-70L pack (60 is probably fine). Unless you've got a lot of disposable income, your first gear is likely going to be twice as heavy and 50% more voluminous than most of the stuff talked about by TH-cam hikers. At least in Australia it's pretty rare to get a good deal on good gear so you really have to splash some cash to get the proper stuff like down sleeping bags and sub 2kg tents (even our own brand Sea2Summit doesn't give us a hometown discount!). Limitation sparks creativity so it isn't necessarily a bad thing to get a small pack but just keep in mind you wont be rocking too many creature comforts with a 45-50L pack and entry level gear.
as a tour guide here in Australia and hike with people who may be buying their first gear, this is invaluable advice! ^^
The rook 50 is garbage
I bought a deuter because their lifetime warranty no matter how old it is or how it was damaged theyll try to repair it or send u a new one of similar size. Got mine for under 200 during sales throughout the year
Dan, this is a great video on both backpacks.
I constantly refer other backpackers to your sight when they ask for help with packs/ gear. Some of the some of the packers I refer come from Appalachian Trail Section Hikers. Looking for new gear.. Etc.
Thx for the video. They just keep getting better. You are now on par with Dixie, of Homemade Wanderlust fame.
Continue on, Sir.
Would be good to get a review on max weight that a backpack can hold comfortably before it begins to strain the material etc. Litres don't really mean anything to those of us who pack according to pounds or kgs.
Thanks for the review of the XC 60. Got mine on drop to use this season as I used the Osprey Stratos 50. It helped me drop around 2 pounds from base weight. Instead of pack cover also purchased a nylofume bag to line inside. Only negative is reaching water bottles while on trail. I love the HMG gear but not pulling trigger on that purchase yet. I am also eyeing the new(ish) Dan Durston Backpack. Cheers Dan!
Kinda late to the party, but I just got a Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 40-60. Also a great bang-for-the-buck pack if you want something that can be used for a wide variety of things and you only lose out on some other minor features that can easily be rectified when compared to other packs.
fc defenitely more comfortable than crown
Started with a atmos 65 then to a levity 45 and now a 2400 southwest ,, got my gear pretty light weight ,, I love that pack
The Exos 58 looks like a nice pack for the weight and great starter backpack.
take a drink every time he says “Back Pack” 😜🤪🍻🍻🍻🍻🍻
I can't physically drink that much 😂
Maybe if I was still in my 20's.
Am 13 but ok
I just woke up from a 10 month coma after reading this comment and watching 3 minutes of the video
I have an osprey backpack. I love mine. It’s a tad heavier but it rides very comfortably. Makes my gear feel like I have nothing on my back, and I have back problems. I am a big girl. Tall and heavy set. However that backpack is a small because I’m short waisted. So I def recommend getting fitted before you buy a pack. REI and other outfitters will let you try them out fully loaded with their pack stuffing with 40-60 lbs. I’m so glad I did it that way.
What type Osprey and liters?
My Granite Gear Lutsen 35 is one of my favorite packs. Very comfortable.
You are absolutely the BEST gear reviewer in this genre! I have watched LOTS of your videos and you give great advice. Thanks for all you do.
I almost went with the Crown 2, but opted for the Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor. Its awesome 👌 and currently on sale for $140ish
This helps. I probably need to look at a t0 and not a 50. Will have many 4-5 days b4 re supplying.
I got the Crown2 x60 (Drop model) last year on sale for $100. Other than a slightly sweatier back than my other packs cause, I love it. A 60+ liter pack at that price which weighs just over 2 lbs. seemed like exactly what I was looking for when I got it. Take care, Danno!
got it last week, its my first backpack (granite gear crown). going to do my first backpacking trip next week.
is it 300$ now?
Just getting into back packing and overnighting. Great videos👍🏼👍🏼
You're totally right Dan, that is a great backpack for the price. Over 600km on mine and going strong. You're not afraid to thrash it around because it didn't cost you a fortune and an argument with your wife. I highly recommend the Drop (Massdrop) version. The brain is detachable and turns into lumbar/fanny pack, however; I took the brain off as soon as I got it and never used it. Trim the straps, take out the plastic frame sheet and replace with a foam sit pad or even the airbeam frame (hard to find now) and you've got yourself a 950 gram or less framed backpack. Pretty amazing for $120. Section Hiker gave it a great review.
I got the drop XC version also and got a nylofume liner from garage gear to line it. I replaced my Osprey Stratos 50. Very happy so far.
I got the crown 2 about 6 months ago for $120 on a sale, and while I am yet to use it for backpacking, I have taken it on a car camping trip with a friend and managed to fit all of the stuff I brought in it, so it is a big win for me.
I live in California and almost all good backpacking sites require bear canisters. This makes it difficult to get by with less than 50 liters.
Another great budget backpack is the Gregory stout and amber packs
I second this. My pack is an amber and it serves me well
Heyo, La Crosse WI, shoutout! I live here and just ordered the Granite Gear Drop X60 on my quest for a lighter pack weight overall. Awesome videos!
Just ordered mine from Drop yesterday...excited to try it out!
Love your videos, Dan. I use a 3F UL backpack. It weighs under 3lbs. Its probably not the quality of the Hyperlite (for sure) or the Osprey or the Granite Gear but its only $56 and is very comfortable. I realize there are as many opinions as there are backpackers and this is mine. On another note, I was watching "Kylehateshiking" and he did a vid on you and he wondered why you have a lot of haters. I didn't know you did but my guess is its because you do such a good job in your videos and are so enthusiastic that others get a bit jealous. Again, just my opinion. Keep up the good work!
Great video! I decided to give the hyperlite a go, and thanks to your code I saved $50!
You’re gonna love it!
I think it's a mistake to start with a large backpack. It's the same mistake most of us make, because we will very likely bring tons more. I think 45L is the best volume to start and get discipline in from the get go.
I recommend 3FUL gear (from China, if you don't already hate them) which is frameless and relatively budget depending on the model you fancy, and Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor which is framed, can carry from 40-60L, and very budget. I own the cheapest 3FUL backpack (under USD100), and would buy the Flex Capacitor if my size was in stock and shipping didn't cost more than half the price of the backpack itself LOL.
Just searched them up on amazon and they are literally identical to the Hyperlite lmao. But thanks for the comment, I was looking for a starter pack.
@@purplemonkeys11, I think it might be cheaper to buy them from Aliexpress, but the shipping costs might be different. You can compare them and pick the cheaper option.
Yeah going for Aliexpress and total cost will be 92.58 with tax/shipping included. I hope that the quality will be at least ok. I would hate to wait a month and upon arrival the product is absolute garbage.
@@purplemonkeys11, that's the cheapest model which you're supposed to use a foam folding sleeping pad as the "frame" right? That's an awesome model, especially if you're significantly taller than 170cm. I don't use foam sleeping pads, plus I'm quite small for a guy, so it doesn't fit me properly, but I removed the foam pads from the side pouches and stacked them in the base back net to create a gap. I get problems when the pack isn't fully loaded up, like when my food supply runs down, then I can't pull on the load lifters because they are already fully utilized. I have to fill the pack up more vertically, so I use 2 long velcro straps around the lower and upper sections of the pack to strap the contents in place. Still a great cheap pack.
@@jdshl8423 Great to hear! Yeah, the foam mat frame is actually my biggest concern, through my backpacking trips I couldn't stand a foam pad. I will see how it feels backpacking without one and if worst comes I might find some cheap padding to fill for support. There's someone on Aliexpress saying how the cinch cords were basically useless and it broke for him in his second hike. Hopefully that wont be me lol.
I totally agree where you recommend spending your money on. Makes for a better trip overall.
Just returned from a short overnight where I carried the Granite Gear Crown2 38. Really enjoy the smaller size compared to the 60. I am more or less dialed in with my loadouts. Although I don't use the smallest and lightest items, I still have enough space even when I bring extra stuff!
Dan, you're the Man. Another useful video. I have a macpac, a New Zealand made back pack using cordura. It's a beast weighing about 2.4 kg but it's tough. After 5 years am thinking about an upgrade even though everything I have has got lighter. All except me...
If you want a 60L version (which easily compresses to sub-20L), the Massdrop x Granite Gear Crown X60 has the best feature set and is about the same price. It's on Drop.com often, request it if it's out!
Man I almost pulled the trigger on the southwest 3400....
But since I'm a beginner I ended up going with the crown blaze 60...
Because I found 2 long term reviews of the hyperlite gear and they both ended up getting beat up and water leakage just like any pack....
Now if hyperlite had a lifetime warranty like osprey I would have got it because the fantasy of having a dry back pack is very alluring....
Subbed!
I have a 5 lbs heavy duty 1000D Cordura backpack and I love it.
The Crown 2 is $128 on Amazon right now if you’re flexible on color. If you remove the frame and brain, like your Hyperlight, it’s under two pounds as well. GGC2 is an unbelievable value.
The $128 GG Crown2 60 pack is the old version, different material and very slightly heavier than the $199 new model (which goes on sale for $149 occasionally). I bought it and returned it for the newer version (on sale). The new black version has different side pouches as well so check that out if you're serious about ordering one. My only complaint is that there are no straps/buckles on the bottom for a tent or foam pad to attach. I have added some shock cord loops on the back and brain to aid in bungying extra gear or wet items.
Have the GG Crown 2. Lots of week long carries. Lots of PCT miles. Big fan. Carried 7 days of food for two people in it Last year. Advice. When in excess of 30 pounds...the thin & narrow shoulder straps dig in a bit unless the weight is VERY close to your spine. When the food is packed horizontally along your spine...the thin shoulder straps aren’t pulling back as bad. Also, just purchased the shoulder pads from Zpacks...that should help too.
Most of my backpacks are Osprey, but for a budget UL I went with the 3FUL 40+16. I filled it with UL budget gear and came up with a setup weighing 14.7 lbs for $500, including clothes.
I have the Exos 48 as well and it is a cracking backpack, the most I squeezed in there was about 22 kilos (it was a long section of a thru hike) and it was still comfortable. I have never heard anyone else call the top pouch "the brain" before, that's exactly what I call it myself, usually gets a laugh at camp. I have used on the thru hike of Te Araroa and intend to use it for the PCT as well as my upcoming 3 month hike of my homeland in Scotland.
Just to add, the brain section of the Exos I keep detached and inside the bag with various bits and bobs in there, I find it helps stop me filling up the bag with crap I don't need.
What a superb video. Thank you for all your efforts...and enthusiasm. I was struggling to choose between the osprey 48 and 58 but I might just go with the granite gear. Not quite ready for the expensive one yet :(
I still use my Exos 48. best backpack ever. I also have several ultralight options, and also a heavy fjallraven Keb 52, but the exos48 is still my goto for longer hikes. the pack does it all
The roll top bag, what’s the specific name for a bag with the one shared space as the main compartment
Dan I love your videos please please don’t stop you are awesome
I just got my granite gear crown 2 . I feel like I made a good choice. So far, I’m loving it.
This backpack, this backpack… This backpack, this backpack… This backpack, this backpack… This backpack, this backpack… you’re killing me, smalls! 🤣🤣🤣
I got the Crown x60 from Massdrop last year. LOVE it. At the time I picked it up for $120 (less $20 first time customer discount.) Did a 4 day trip 2 weeks ago and it carried great with 30lbs with food and water (2L). Going to use it for a 6 day 60 mile trip this summer (should be 35lbs).
I've used my Granite Gear v2 Crown 60 for a yr and a half...love it. Usually leave the brain at home. Sometimes leave the framesheet home also...
I recently purchased the GG Blaze 60... weighs 3lbs and holds up to 50lbs. Its extremely comfortable and I'd recommend it to anyone.
Thank you for the review, great channel!
I really like Osprey as a brand, I'll check out what the have
Awesome video Dan! Looking at the Exos 48 now as a replacement for my 11 yr old Gregory 70 L.
I started w an osprey ag atmos 50. it was an Ebay buy, and I did have some 'heavier' gear so I needed a pack to carry that. As my sleep systems and tent improved, I moved to a ULA Circuit. Its less then half the weight, but BOTH have their pros and cons. I like having options.
Hey Dan, the smaller GraniteGear Crown2 38 is now only $99.95 at Granite Gear, also there is 30% off site wide.Great packs,you also didn’t mention that the lid,frame and hip belt are removable, to be able to make an ultralight frameless.Thanks for the vids!
Thanks D
I’m a big fan off your channel
I’ve been hiking/camping a lot lately
Wanted to get a custom altra light pack, but didn’t have the patience to wait 8 weeks to get it
So I got the Opsrey Exco 58
Fully loaded I’m surprised how light weight & how the weight is evenly distributed to make the pack feel light
In the past I had a Teton 3700 ultra light
But it wasn’t so light weight & brutal a on a 2 day 14m hike
I gotta day the Exco 58 is awesome
Not to say that I’ll keep upgrading
Thanks D
Picked up the Crown2 a couple of months ago and just starting to break it in. Very happy so far.
Which one would you choose between the Silverback 55L Backpack from Gossamer Gear and the Windrider 2400 55L from Hyperlite Mountain Gear.
Thanks Dan don’t know how I missed this one.
I'd love to see a comparison between the Granite Gear and Bergans Helium V5 55.
I have 3 big backpacks, first an osprey 130L second backpack is a Karrimor SF 155L and just purchased a Kelty Eagle 128l backpack as I'm a big lad 6'2 and I just like having everything in my pack to hand and for me it's worth the extra effort to carry all my gear
Totally agreed, put your money into your pack and when you get to camp at night, your back won't be sore, and keep you up all night. I love budget gear, just not my backpack. I like my back better. Thanks for the info.
I second that. my number 2 is my sleeping pad. that makes alllll the difference.(to me)
Dan, how do you carry your camera gear in bags like these? Do you use a camera cube insert? If so, any recommendations?
CAMERA CLIP FOR BACKPACK amzn.to/2VjlihB
@@DanBeckersweet! How about inside the bag for spare lenses? Or do you just bring 1 lens and stick it on the camera with the camera clip at all times?
Just a small dyneema bag. No extra lenses.
Here’s the camera gear:
MAIN CAMERA amzn.to/2UJ6IQi
MAIN LENS amzn.to/2sysGVC
VLOGGING LENS amzn.to/2TyvS1K
ND FILTER amzn.to/2DR26wM
ZOOM LENS amzn.to/2XWeOCf
GIMBAL amzn.to/2Lm38VK
TRAIL MIC amzn.to/2FGD9Gj
TALKING HEAD MIC amzn.to/2CrjsPt
TRIPOD (FULL SIZE) amzn.to/2u9iQhj
TRIPOD (SMALL) amzn.to/2DOaf55
DRONE amzn.to/2Ug7nHu
CAMERA CLIP FOR BACKPACK amzn.to/2VjlihB
Love hearing the birds chirp in the background
Good to great backpacks that are comparitively cheap... military surplus. They tend to be heavy, but they tend to be bombproof. They are also full of PALS, ALiCE, and/MOLLE webbing for add on gear/space/organization.
What do you think of the Gossamer Mariposa 60 backpack? How does it compare to these two?
Quick question... not quite related (other than I will be using a granite gear crown 2). How do you attach your inreach mini? I have seen it in many of your videos near your shoulder. Are you just using the carabiner to connect? Just got mine and will be using it next week with the crown2 and wanted to make sure that that carabiner on a backpack strap holds securely.
0:59 As a beginner, novice Hiker I have REPEATEDLY heard, "Buy the pack last," but never really understood why until this video. And inasmuch as I want to eventually get a HMG bag, I know it makes more sense to start with a cheaper, budget option then eventually upgrade later as I become more experienced & dial in my gear.
Beginner backpacker here. I have a HMG backpack and it is worth every cent. Bomb proof, water proof, and light weight. I even pushed its weight limit on a 5 day hike. I wish I had started out with it.
The top measurement point is C7.
Been using the crown 2 for about a year now love it so much
So I am getting ready to get a new backpack. I am eyeing the HLMG 3400 Southwest. Most of my gear is lightweight. I am getting ready to do 4 or 5 days in the Sierra and I will need to carry a bear can. I am currently using the Osprey 58 and I am finding the straps cutting into my shoulders. Do you think the HLMG has comfortable straps? There may be days that I need to carry more than 30 ads due to water or maybe extra food. I want to make sure the backpack can carry extra weight. Thoughts. Love your videos. Love your energy.
Hey Dan,
I am looking real hard at the Granite Gear Blaze 60. Have you tried that one out? Thanks.
I purchased a GG Crown2 this year and really like it!
Do you have an opinion on the Gossamer Gear Mariposa vs. any of the HMG Packs? I need to carry a heavy load (zpacks triplex) and I hear a lot of good thing about the Mariposa pack, but wish it were dyneema.
a side question. what is the reason some small (around 15 litres) hiking backpacks are of the reverse triangular shape (bottom is narrower than the top)? thanks
Wow beautiful LaCross!! We are from Rice Lake and Cumberland WI. Love this video!!! We now live in Norris Lake, TN. So Dan, REI measured me and I need a xsmall size 16 backpack and maximum I will carry is 25 lbs.. what would you recommend? Thanks!! Nancy
Your videos are awesome!
Hey Dan, do you know any ultralight hiking/backpacking pack (made of xpac, dyneema etc) that has a laptop compartment.. :)
I’ll stick with my HMG Windrider 3400 55L for long hikes and my ULA Photon 35L for day hikes/peak bagging. 🤙🏼🌲✌🏼
I'm camping with my buddies in Viroqua July 4th weekend. Looking forward to it!
How come you didn’t go for the atlas athlete backpack?
Never heard of it!
I've been looking for a new pack and just purchased the crown 2 thanks to your review, so excited.
Excellent an informative Dan. I have a ULA OHM 2. but I'm here to tell you one of the best little backpacks that I still use for a weekender is the Walmart brand 47 liter El cheapo pack coming in at $35.99 HOT DAMN!! My dear is all dialed down pretty tight. And I can pack that baby at seventeen or eighteen pounds for 3 night trip. I agree the more pockets you have the more crap you take along. I agree definitely get that sleep system before the pack. ✌️💜
What about zpacks 38l
Backpack backpack backpack
I went to La Crosse for college, beautiful city with great hiking. What is your favorite spot in Wisconsin to backpack? I am thinking of going to the national forest up north!
The bone on the back of your neck that you measure your bag from is the seventh cervical vertebrae. Its the last bone before your "neck ends and your back starts". (Physical Therapist Assistant)
Granite Gear 38
Wiiiild how expensive that granite bag is here in the UK
The coupon code doesn't seem to work... maybe I waited too long to use it?
I've have been looking at the Crown 2 for some time. Thanks for the video
I just purchased the crown 2 last week. My 3FUL frameless was killing my shoulders whenever I had to pack a lot of water. Doesn't help when my shoulders were higher than the load lifters.
A pack that is too short for your torso is brutal on your shoulders. I used to work at REI and sold packs to lots of people who had chosen a pack online that was way too short and they were so happy to purchase one that actually fit and was comfortable fully loaded.
@@danielkutcher5704 So I have learned. I bought the 3F UL before I understood the importance of torso length in selecting a pack.
Wow nice n informative video. I created a video on same topic but differently presented with other necessary information.
Ulead Crest.
I can certainly understand not remembering what's in which pocket. In my normal EDC I use a pack with a lot of pockets and I had to develop the muscle memory to remember what was where, now it's not a problem. If you're always using the same gear in the same spots the memory will develop. Good luck on the trail and everywhere else too.
Dan has kids often when he hikes. They ruin your sense of 'same spots'.
I use the Massdrop exclusive, the granite gear Crown x, it's awesome!
You had me in the title saying “backpack” I hope your having a great time out in the woods. Great tips my friend 👍👍
That’s so cool that your in Wisconsin!!