Growing up in poverty in California my gear consisted of church hand me downs and the occasional Walmart backpack. It definitely gives you a different head space when shopping for gear as an adult
I picked up the little rubber hose gaskets with the metal mesh filter on them (like for garden hoses) and they fit inside the back of a sawyer and can pre filter big stuff before it gets to the actual sawyer filter. Helps keep your filter clean longer if you are pulling from really mucky water
Don't forget bandanas, a buck each. Imusa mug for cook pot. Outdoor Products dry bags, 3 for $8. Regular nylon stuff sacks, 3 for $4. Good, cheap trekking poles, $18 (you can replace several times for what others cost). Haters can hate, but some of us have tight budgets and have to maximize our pennies.
Ill second the 1$ bandannas and 8$ dry sacks, thats where I got both mine and they have held up to over 1 year of abuse already, The Dry Bags are barely heavier than zpacks and less than 1/3 or 1/4 the cost... no brainer.
beeveedee I’m planning a short two day backpacking trip to spread some of my late father’s ashes at one of his favorite spots in Northern California. I don’t want to invest it expensive equipment. Your suggestions really helped. I’m not so much worried about the weight, but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg for just two nights. Thanks again and any other suggestions would be great.
Glad to help. I myself am always on a tight budget! --I found out about the Imusa mugs as cook pots thanks to TH-cam. There's lots of videos about them and how people modify them (the one flaw is the handle that sticks out-clumsy for packing). Here's a video so you can see them: th-cam.com/video/Fe39UFiaykU/w-d-xo.html They can be hard to find as the video alludes to. But seriously, $4 for a pot is a great deal and they are light and work fine. --Walmart has tons of synthetic active wear now at great prices, perfect for hiking. --If you need a backpack, I've looked at this 45L pack and it's honestly not bad, not too heavy, good features, pretty much styled after Osprey packs: tinyurl.com/y7qmwubn --For day hikes, you can't beat $18 for the minimal, UL 28L Atka pack: tinyurl.com/ycphqepx I have this pack. My brother borrowed it on a short hike this summer and liked it. --lightweight Ozark Trail packing cubes: tinyurl.com/y8gvym27 -flashlights, headlamps, knives. There's a TH-camr that likes some of the $4 folding knives sold at Walmart. th-cam.com/video/0_-xBvd6FL8/w-d-xo.html I think if people will give some of this a chance, especially for occasional use, they'll find the quality not bad at all, and a great way to save a lot of money with carefully selected items.
The Frogtogs poncho is my favorite piece of gear- hands down! Poncho for rain that can cover me and my pack, extra layer if I have a chill, blanket for warmth in the summer, tarp to sit on and eat.
I bought a stanly cook set that came with lid and two plastic cups and measurements stamped into the metal. I only use one of the cups and put my burner mini bic piece of scrubby sponge and camp soap inside it and a 150 (I think)gas canister inside . It all fits with the lid on. Very compact. I think I paid like 11 bucks for it.
I got a store brand stainless cook set with two nesting pots. I gave one to my sister. I think it cost $11 on clearance. I got two steel mugs with folding handles for $5 each. Got a stainless mess kit for two on clearance as well, for car camping. Got heet and (clearance) denatured alcohol for my stove. Cotton balls and Vaseline for firestarters... Bic lighters. Oatmeal and instant rice. Cordage, multitool and knife. All my camping stuff doubles as emergency equipment too. They have luci lights too which i love
I've seen a lot of people using this cookset. To me, it's a good option when you don't want to drop serious $ on other brands. It will probably outlast your hiking days, too.
I've been wearing my Target knock-off "under armor" every season for 10 years...still work just as good as the day I got them. I spent maybe 30 bucks for a set (top and bottom), and bought 3 pairs. If you are in a pinch- women's pantyhose also make a great breathable layer- this is actually an old army trick that one of my older friends down at the American Legion (my dad was a Vietnam era veteran) told me back in Boy Scouts. We laughed about it, but then after trying it at a late fall camping trip, I was a convert. In those days, the old cotton long johns were still popular....the pantyhose wicks moisture away from your body and helps keep you warm....like poor man's under armor.
I guess I should clarify that Im not saying that Walmart is the best place to shop. Just sayin these are some options we've used. 🤷🏼♀️ That other guy is Puma, Check out his videos! th-cam.com/channels/j6ABN6TI3yd9oTkcE1fPgQ.html
Better if everybody picks up cheaper gear like this in local b&m stores off the trail and stay the eff outta Wallyworld. You're passing through their neck of the woods, spend a little in their stores. Heaps of small towns have lil combination hardware/sporting stores and they all usually carry these same brands of stuff for a buck more.
There headlamps arnt great but they do sometimes have one that uses a watch style battery that's pretty good, I like to wear a light long sleeve during the summer they carry a cheep light plad or Dickie shirt I use them for work and in the woods you can usually find cheap aluminum cookpots and the sleeping pads expecaly if you want to cut them down are a good and obviously you can buy a bunch of different stuff to make alcohol stoves. From the hardware store I buy gutter nails for tent stakes there hardened aluminum and survivor and masonry string is pretty strong cheep line for multiple different applications. I used to volunteer for a local BSA troop until my buddy's kid brother aged out we would recommend cheeper options to the kids and parents with stuff like that.
I purchased an "Outdoor Products" backpack as a burner backpack for a canyoneering trip that I knew would chew it up to pieces scraping on rocks and all kinds of terrain. It has ended up lasting me over 3 years of continous use as my side-pack for training and weekend hikes. I'm amazing at how well it has held up. I think I paid like $40 for it.
I bought a computer backpack at Walmart about 15 years ago. I biked a lot so it was used to get groceries twice a week, as well as other things, and of course used it for taking my computer to the library. Needless to say I used it often. Then, being on a low budget i ended up using it for my INCH and camping bag. It held up well until last year when one of the zippers came loose. I still use it for overnighters, but now have a 75 liter backpack for the INCH bag. I have videos of both on my channel if you are interested.
Went to Wally World today. Everything like you said. Socks $1.50 pair. Polyester and spandex. The Tees were all $3. Out of Frog Toggs. of course it was raining in LA. Probably last time till fall. Sawyers were there just like you said. THANK for keeping me from being BRANDED. Great video. Just like y'all said. Oh also got a No-See-Um Head Net by UST for $1.50
I used the coleman pocket stove for 4 years.... always did great, I dropped it on a rock and it still worked, also I bought a blue tarp for 5 bucks that lasted me 3 years as well,
WOW! Found cuddle duds today in black. I am 5' 9" & weigh 175 the xxlg fit just fine. They were on sale for $7:00 for each piece. Thanks for this video.
Between the video and the comments, this is a goldmine of useful info. Especially for someone who is just starting out and is on a budget. Thanks for all of it.
Neemor thank you making your video 'family friendly'. You stick to the point and don't have to add in a bunch of useless words that offends many and adds nothing to anything. Thank you for being the person you are and I say thank you to your family as well because that says a lot about how your family must be as well. Stay safe and keep sharing.
2010 AT thru hiker named Skittles (SOBO) purchased his entire kit from the Mart. Can't go ultralight but he was young and you can't argue with success. Cheap, too.
The Athletic Works microgrid fleece jackets work surprisingly well when hiking for $9. I've also bought sawyer filters, frog toggs raingear, Victorinox knives and stanley ss cooksets at Walmart. I've stopped at Walmarts for oil and filers and done an oil change in the parking lot on my bikes. Walmart recycles the oil for you. Walmart is basically everywhere and has good prices. I have other stores price match Walmart. Lets face it everyone needs all the financial help they can get these days and Walmart is a tool to achieve that. Just like any of the other tools in our packs. Let's face it much of what we carry or wear are consumables. Socks, shorts, shirts consumables. I'm really enjoying the $18 dollar G4Free pack you recommended. I've been using it as my EDC and it's really a great little pack I don't have to worry about like the more expensive dyneema/cuben packs. I just broke one of the elastic shock cords today removing a thermarest and sandals from it. Don't get me wrong I love me some Palante, Zpacks, Bedrock and other pricey gear but some of the other consumables are close enough in weight and durability and are a lot cheaper. Keep up the videos.
I also got stuff sacks, cordage, the ozark trails folding sleeping pad. You can get running shorts and performance fabric tops at Goodwill very commonly, if you are looking to save money and dont wang to go to walmart. You can sometimes find other backpacking bits and bobs at goodwill.
I saw an Ozark Trail 12 Person 2 Room Instant Cabin Tent with Screen Room. It's not exactly ultralight. It's about 50 lbs, but comes with a rollerbag. Perfect for the AT.
I found a 4 person tent that weighed 10 lbs. With group backpacking trips we would split up the weight among our group & it was the best dang tent we used. BTW it cost me $20. It worked just as good as my new $200 tent.
Thank you!!!!! These are great tips especially for a beginner. It hard to not get sticker shock at rei when buying gear. I will totally pay up for the big 3 and shoes but why do I need a $22 spork????
Thank you guys for this!! I always say , "the name doesn't matter if the material/ingredients are the same" so many swear by $Name brands but off brands are just as good!!
Polycro in the paint dept is super cheap at Walmart. The also sell button down Wrangler brand synthetic plaid shirts, better ventilation than t shirts.
kudos for not being afraid to wear women's clothes! it was actually really refreshing to see. I am a woman and half my wardrobe is men's clothes. some people care way too much about silly stuff. good for you guys for not being one of those people! :)
Thanks for the video guys. I’m aware of most of the stuff you mentioned but am interested in the “cuddlebuds” thanks for sharing. Walmart has tons of budget friendly backpacking gear from Stanley cook pots to clothing etc. one particular item I recommend is a “poncho/tarp”. It can-usually only be found on the online Walmart store but it is really cheap and serves as a ground sheet for sleeping gear and rain cover for yourself and your backpack if you are hiking in the rain.
if you don't want to buy a roll of reflectix to make pot/cup cozies. Walmart can typically buy a car sun reflector that is same or similar material fairly cheap. heat retention for making a simple cozy really is impressive. might be worth looking into
I like the idea of doing a little searching for gear outside the normal channels. I've always thought it a little ironic that we strive for minimalist out door experiences with some times outrageously priced gear...
Off the top of my head, I’ve bought and used Mountain House meals (great price), a compass, a tick key, a Sawyer Squeeze and knee compression sleeves...not to mention food resupplies.
I recently purchased 3 Russell moisture wicking shirts for a dollar a shirt at Walmart. The were left over from the summer and were advertising them on the rack at regular price. Download the Walmart app and and scan the tags, I always find good deals this way. Great video..
they also usually carry swiss army knives something like the SAK bantam camper, tinkerer, or for the ultralight guys the SAK classic should all serve a backpacker well.
I have a beater 2 person 4 season tent that I bought there it's held up well for us car and motorcycle camping, they still sell them for like 40$, its not a true 4 season but it's got us through some knarly rain up in British Columbia
you should do a full Walmart review of their camping gear ,starting with the big three , then giving us a final price, ideally for some one to begin their gear collection, we know it wont be ultralight, but everyone needs a tent, backpack, and sleeping gear.from some where
Cuddle duds are the best! At end of season, can always pick up clearance base layers and polyester shirts, both long and short sleeve. Highly recommend the Cuddle duds tho!
Excellent! I live in Alaska and often pickup clearance sale items at the end of winter. Swiss Gear Puffy $10 for example. My base layer is also from Walmart $5 Dristar synthetic T, Russel tops and bottoms. For hiking at -20 F, I like the Wrangler synthetic pants that are fleece lined...I hike in these every day all winter long in Alaska.
Wrangler cargo pants with the 4 way stretch. They're $20 and are just as awfully close to being just as comfortable to a pair of nylon/elastic hiking pants I got at Eddie Bauer that retailed for $50 or more. I had to return one pair because of a bad seam, but I have two pairs that have lasted me daily wear doing construction for four months now.
I know a lot of people are whining about Walmart but they are in a lot of trail towns so you have to look at them as an option. My Walmart started carrying the small cans of Nido whole fat powdered milk and they also have the individually wrapped Tilamook cheeses at a good price. Lots of knors, Idahoan mashed potatoes and dry soups too. Nido is great with oatmeal, noodles, mashed potatoes, cocoa. Keeps a little meat on you scrawny through hikers. I prefer the men's clothes at Walmart but I'm 6'3". Great tips.
Awesome! This type of video would make a great series for inexpensive lightweight gear. Sleep system & pad, shelter, cooking, food, hygene, clothing, water, electronics, pack, etc. Gear that won't break your bank but works well and still is light.
I used a chopped and modified Wmart Montpelier Pack that I got on clearance for my first two seasons going ultralight. Found a Big Agnes style tent and closed cell foam pad there as well. Rounded it out with a Costco down quilt. Got started for under two hundred. Didn't invest a lot because I was not sure long hikes would become my jam. That was hundreds of miles ago! I've since graduated to some lighter, more specialized gear, but if I did not have the means I'd still use that original kit without complaint.
Great video my man! I really do hate gear snobs. Like just today I was watching a video about the "Deuce of Spades" and was thinking to myself, "why in the hell would anyone pay $20 for a bent, 6" piece of aluminum gutter?"
One thing is for sure, Walmart has up there game when it comes to camping and hiking gear. At least my local Walmart store has and they now carry the Klymit brand of camping and hiking gear. I was able to buy a Klymit sleeping pillow that is pretty darn comfortable for it's size. And it comes in a nice little poly type storage bag and only weighs 3.2 ounces. I also picked up a "Slumberjack Dallas Divide" 65 liter backpack in the clearance section for only $29.99. Which is less than the regular retail price of some $85 dollars. The camping and hiking area had a lot of different types of gear that was also on clearance. I was able to pick up a Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system. For only $14.57 which again is like half the regular price. I also picked up a foldable puring type saw in the garden section for $12.00 dollars. And it is way better than the one in the camping and hiking gear area. That was like some $17 dollars and the saw blade looked like it could snap off when you need it the most. One other thing I picked up was a "Ozark Trail" Mummy bag that was on clearance for $11.99 and again was half the regular price. One thing I don't suggest buying from your local Walmart store is the sleeping pads. The two different types that my local Walmart store sells. Are the roll up foam pad, and the closed cell foam type that folds up. In my opinion the roll up foam pads are a hassle to roll up when you are out on the trail. And they are quite heavy compared to the closed cell foldable foam pads. But even the closed cell foam foldable pads are very uncomfortable. And for some $20 dollars I would think there are better options for the same price range.
Thanks for the tips! My tips is, you can get the best of both worlds by shopping at second-hand stores like savers or goodwill. Me and my wife have found brands like Patagonia, Nike, north face, under armour for cheaper than the Walmart stuff. Anyway, thanks for the video!
Philip H the Goodwill bins can be even better if you can deal with the process. I have found mountain hard wear, outdoor research, big agnes, Eddie Bauer, etc. Searching there, found a mountaineering tent last time, all by the pound
If you live in a region in which hiking is huge, Goodwill can be a good move because of how they process and redistribute items. Otherwise, don't count on finding anything that good there. And by good I mean better than Nike, North Face and Under Armour, which are generally in pretty bad shape by the time they make it to Goodwill or are not really suitable for the purpose. There IS decent NF stuff, but the stuff at Goodwill will be the heavier stuff you wouldn't want to hump across miles in a pack.
Aaron Hartje our goodwill is overly priced.... for the donated items that are initially free to them and then place a higher-than-Walmart price on their stuff
I didn't read all the comments, but Walmart carries a 3 pack of dry bags for around $10. Three different sizes. I have had my set for about 18 months and about 200 miles and they are still holding up well.
I'll add Walmart is the best place to get the Uco Switch utensil set. It is $4.97 (which is about $3 cheaper than Amazon) and gives a fork, knife, spoon, and long utensil. It weighs in right at an ounce, so while not the lightest you can buy, well worth the weight for the utility. Some stores also carry the Uco Sporks (if you don't need the long handle of the Switch) which are $1.97 for plastic and $9.97 for titanium. I'll also second the women's shorts. They're my all time favorite athletic shorts because some of the longer ones have pockets and are about $10 a pair. Another super random thing I have that can be bought there is a Mead Five Star pencil case designed to go in a binder. It is made of ripstop nylon and has a couple of pockets while being almost completely flat. I keep my first aid kit in it and store it in the bladder pouch of my pack so I always know right where it is and can direct someone else to it easily if need be.
How many sawyer mini's do you need to buy...unless they freeze or you fail to back wash them, they will last forever...they filter 100,000 gallons of water, i doubt I could drink that much water in 30 years.
I have some Starter brand shorts I got at Walmart 18 years ago when I started running and I still have them. They've outlasted many other pairs of name brand, much more expensive shorts.
off topic...how do you like that UD 15 pack? I have a race vest and thought about getting the fast pack 25 and gutting it to get it down lighter for summer trips.
A few things to quickly point out. 1. That mustache is AWESOME !!!! 2. I love my sawyer filter. I carry it in my day back for day hikes. If i'm doing a multi day trip than I bring my katadyn pump. Great video & nice work !!!
the wold needs more videos like this! You don't need to spend a fortune to get out on the trail! There's obviously no replacement for quality but if you cant afford quality its good to know what you can get for your dollar!
#1 thing I never forget to pack is underwear and socks. I grew up in a swampy, and humid place, and I’ve hiked through many miles of… well I wouldn’t call it ground, mud, or water, it’s like all 3 mixed into one… but nonetheless my feet and undies got wet. Always gotta keep atleast two pairs of both in my bag.
I actually had to re-supply my entire gear inventory at Walmart in Perrisberg after my pack was stolen at the hostel. Ended up spending about a hundred bucks on: a pack (2lbs), sawyer, frog togs, red accordion cup, cat can for an alcohol stove, smart water, tent stakes, deet, food. Solid deal. Still have the pack.
That sucks that someone stole all your gear. I've heard some pretty good things about the packs they sell there. They definitely aren't trendy or good looking, but I hear they're really durable.
Picked up some mittens recently (worn in the PCT Border to Lake Morena video) from Walmart. That store is the devil, of course. But shout out to Wally World for always being there, open 24 hours usually, when we forget something right before a hike. We don’t have a great selection of outdoors stuff in San Diego but have been to a couple in other states with really good gear.
Was out doing a section hike on the AT last year and it suddenly turned much colder than I had planned on but it was too late in the season to find a fleece sweater or anything so I bought a cheap fleece blanket and cut a strip off it to use as a wrap/ extra blanket/ wind skirt/ extra pillow. Worked so well I almost felt bad about kicking it out of my gear when I got finished.
Foldable water bottles & best price on waterproofing spray are two things I cam think of. Not sure on the quality of the water bottles.I have not used them yet. Find out in a week n half.
i bought my light weight sleeping bag from walmart. Its really small, but its only good for summer months. Perfect for sleeping in 55-60 degree weather, but I would never use it lower than 50 degrees.
So in scouts we hike in, set up camp and then do day hikes. For those I love the nylon package day pack at 3 ounces. It holds your ten essentials and lunch easily. And I still use the $10 plastic Buck knife at 1.5 oz for a full sized pocket knife. Wicked sharp and pretty disposable. Funny the best clothes are women's. Lol.
Goodwill has lots of good stuff for very cheap; anything brand name I own is from resale shops. I've bought some good stuff with the tags still attached. The trick is stopping in on a regular basis.
Wait! What? The China made stuff WM sells is just as good as the China made stuff the premium brands sell? Now, that just doesn't make any sense 🙄 I just bought an Ozark Trail H2O proof roll top duffle for $10, the SAME EXACT bag (save for the color) is sold by a "premium" company called "Held," for $60. I'd post pics of the ads if I could. Great tips Btw, thanks.
My body responds well to Gatorade. I use it for training and trips. I found a really cheap giant container of the powder at Walmart in my favorite flavor that is hard to find.
Super cool! I knew that Walmart had a bunch of useful stuff, but you even showed me things that I didn't know about. I'm totally going to go and look more closely now.
Growing up in poverty in California my gear consisted of church hand me downs and the occasional Walmart backpack. It definitely gives you a different head space when shopping for gear as an adult
I picked up the little rubber hose gaskets with the metal mesh filter on them (like for garden hoses) and they fit inside the back of a sawyer and can pre filter big stuff before it gets to the actual sawyer filter. Helps keep your filter clean longer if you are pulling from really mucky water
This was such an efficient video. Most of the time on a list video like this I fast forward through useless rambling, not the case here. Nice
Ultralight video :)
Don't forget bandanas, a buck each. Imusa mug for cook pot. Outdoor Products dry bags, 3 for $8. Regular nylon stuff sacks, 3 for $4. Good, cheap trekking poles, $18 (you can replace several times for what others cost). Haters can hate, but some of us have tight budgets and have to maximize our pennies.
Ill second the 1$ bandannas and 8$ dry sacks, thats where I got both mine and they have held up to over 1 year of abuse already, The Dry Bags are barely heavier than zpacks and less than 1/3 or 1/4 the cost... no brainer.
beeveedee I’m planning a short two day backpacking trip to spread some of my late father’s ashes at one of his favorite spots in Northern California. I don’t want to invest it expensive equipment. Your suggestions really helped. I’m not so much worried about the weight, but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg for just two nights. Thanks again and any other suggestions would be great.
Glad to help. I myself am always on a tight budget!
--I found out about the Imusa mugs as cook pots thanks to TH-cam. There's lots of videos about them and how people modify them (the one flaw is the handle that sticks out-clumsy for packing). Here's a video so you can see them: th-cam.com/video/Fe39UFiaykU/w-d-xo.html They can be hard to find as the video alludes to. But seriously, $4 for a pot is a great deal and they are light and work fine.
--Walmart has tons of synthetic active wear now at great prices, perfect for hiking.
--If you need a backpack, I've looked at this 45L pack and it's honestly not bad, not too heavy, good features, pretty much styled after Osprey packs: tinyurl.com/y7qmwubn
--For day hikes, you can't beat $18 for the minimal, UL 28L Atka pack: tinyurl.com/ycphqepx I have this pack. My brother borrowed it on a short hike this summer and liked it.
--lightweight Ozark Trail packing cubes: tinyurl.com/y8gvym27
-flashlights, headlamps, knives. There's a TH-camr that likes some of the $4 folding knives sold at Walmart. th-cam.com/video/0_-xBvd6FL8/w-d-xo.html
I think if people will give some of this a chance, especially for occasional use, they'll find the quality not bad at all, and a great way to save a lot of money with carefully selected items.
Haven’t looked lately but always found the bandannas at Walmart had polyester. I can usually find 100% cotton ones at Dollar General.
Michele Zurick rei rents gear too
The Frogtogs poncho is my favorite piece of gear- hands down! Poncho for rain that can cover me and my pack, extra layer if I have a chill, blanket for warmth in the summer, tarp to sit on and eat.
I love mine! I just wish it were a different color because it looks very out of place if I'm not actively hiking lol. But $10, can't say no
I bought a stanly cook set that came with lid and two plastic cups and measurements stamped into the metal. I only use one of the cups and put my burner mini bic piece of scrubby sponge and camp soap inside it and a 150 (I think)gas canister inside . It all fits with the lid on. Very compact. I think I paid like 11 bucks for it.
I use the same pot, but I replace the green cups with a 16 oz great value styrofoam cup. Good for a few uses and nests in there perfectly.
I got a store brand stainless cook set with two nesting pots. I gave one to my sister. I think it cost $11 on clearance. I got two steel mugs with folding handles for $5 each. Got a stainless mess kit for two on clearance as well, for car camping. Got heet and (clearance) denatured alcohol for my stove. Cotton balls and Vaseline for firestarters... Bic lighters. Oatmeal and instant rice. Cordage, multitool and knife.
All my camping stuff doubles as emergency equipment too. They have luci lights too which i love
I've seen a lot of people using this cookset. To me, it's a good option when you don't want to drop serious $ on other brands. It will probably outlast your hiking days, too.
Also, batteries, a relatively nice handheld flashlight, tent stakes that are light and sturdy. Really they've got everything
And permethrin, and deet, and eeeeverything!
Headlamps (~$10-20), synthetic underwear (~$10/3 pair), Full-zip fleece ($10), and stuff sacks ($10/3). (I love CuddlDuds, too.)
I've been wearing my Target knock-off "under armor" every season for 10 years...still work just as good as the day I got them. I spent maybe 30 bucks for a set (top and bottom), and bought 3 pairs. If you are in a pinch- women's pantyhose also make a great breathable layer- this is actually an old army trick that one of my older friends down at the American Legion (my dad was a Vietnam era veteran) told me back in Boy Scouts. We laughed about it, but then after trying it at a late fall camping trip, I was a convert. In those days, the old cotton long johns were still popular....the pantyhose wicks moisture away from your body and helps keep you warm....like poor man's under armor.
I guess I should clarify that Im not saying that Walmart is the best place to shop. Just sayin these are some options we've used. 🤷🏼♀️
That other guy is Puma, Check out his videos! th-cam.com/channels/j6ABN6TI3yd9oTkcE1fPgQ.html
5x7 silnylon tarp for ground sheet for your tent!
Thanks for letting folks know where they can save some money to get out on the trail!
Better if everybody picks up cheaper gear like this in local b&m stores off the trail and stay the eff outta Wallyworld. You're passing through their neck of the woods, spend a little in their stores. Heaps of small towns have lil combination hardware/sporting stores and they all usually carry these same brands of stuff for a buck more.
There headlamps arnt great but they do sometimes have one that uses a watch style battery that's pretty good, I like to wear a light long sleeve during the summer they carry a cheep light plad or Dickie shirt I use them for work and in the woods you can usually find cheap aluminum cookpots and the sleeping pads expecaly if you want to cut them down are a good and obviously you can buy a bunch of different stuff to make alcohol stoves.
From the hardware store I buy gutter nails for tent stakes there hardened aluminum and survivor and masonry string is pretty strong cheep line for multiple different applications. I used to volunteer for a local BSA troop until my buddy's kid brother aged out we would recommend cheeper options to the kids and parents with stuff like that.
THey have those $1 ones that you can buy and keep in case of emergency.
I purchased an "Outdoor Products" backpack as a burner backpack for a canyoneering trip that I knew would chew it up to pieces scraping on rocks and all kinds of terrain. It has ended up lasting me over 3 years of continous use as my side-pack for training and weekend hikes. I'm amazing at how well it has held up. I think I paid like $40 for it.
eNdo - Visual Alchemy - And all Outdoor Products packs are guaranteed for life!
I bought a computer backpack at Walmart about 15 years ago. I biked a lot so it was used to get groceries twice a week, as well as other things, and of course used it for taking my computer to the library. Needless to say I used it often.
Then, being on a low budget i ended up using it for my INCH and camping bag. It held up well until
last year when one of the zippers came loose. I still use it for overnighters, but now have a 75 liter backpack for the INCH bag.
I have videos of both on my channel if you are interested.
Who can make a Walmart cheap gear video entertaining and super useful?! Neemor, that's who. Thanks!
My wife and I both have trekking poles from there that have stood up for hundreds of miles...
Anderson Adventures Very satisfying ...
Anderson Adventures Very satisfying
Went to Wally World today. Everything like you said. Socks $1.50 pair. Polyester and spandex. The Tees were all $3. Out of Frog Toggs. of course it was raining in LA. Probably last time till fall. Sawyers were there just like you said. THANK for keeping me from being BRANDED. Great video. Just like y'all said. Oh also got a No-See-Um Head Net by UST for $1.50
I used the coleman pocket stove for 4 years.... always did great, I dropped it on a rock and it still worked, also I bought a blue tarp for 5 bucks that lasted me 3 years as well,
You guys are real. I've been looking for hiker channels like yours. Most just review crazy expensive gear
WOW! Found cuddle duds today in black. I am 5' 9" & weigh 175 the xxlg fit just fine. They were on sale for $7:00 for each piece. Thanks for this video.
In September Walmart had clearance on outdoor camping stuff. I picked up some zlite sleeping pads for 5.00.
Between the video and the comments, this is a goldmine of useful info. Especially for someone who is just starting out and is on a budget. Thanks for all of it.
I’m glad it was helpful!
When I started backpacking I bought some Russell men’s base layer. Very inexpensive but hey if you’re not sure how much going to use it.
Neemor thank you making your video 'family friendly'. You stick to the point and don't have to add in a bunch of useless words that offends many and adds nothing to anything. Thank you for being the person you are and I say thank you to your family as well because that says a lot about how your family must be as well. Stay safe and keep sharing.
Thanks Bobby, I'm glad you enjoy the videos!
i roll with the camp utensils at walmart. they’re 88 cents and it’s a good spoon to have as a backup.
They carry Tenacious Tape as well, which I used to fix my 60 dollar Patagonia shorts.
Here in TN I like hiking with pants. Mostly because of ticks, bugs and brush. I use lightweight athletic pants with a stretch waist.
Nice!
2010 AT thru hiker named Skittles (SOBO) purchased his entire kit from the Mart. Can't go ultralight but he was young and you can't argue with success. Cheap, too.
The Athletic Works microgrid fleece jackets work surprisingly well when hiking for $9. I've also bought sawyer filters, frog toggs raingear, Victorinox knives and stanley ss cooksets at Walmart. I've stopped at Walmarts for oil and filers and done an oil change in the parking lot on my bikes. Walmart recycles the oil for you. Walmart is basically everywhere and has good prices. I have other stores price match Walmart. Lets face it everyone needs all the financial help they can get these days and Walmart is a tool to achieve that. Just like any of the other tools in our packs. Let's face it much of what we carry or wear are consumables. Socks, shorts, shirts consumables. I'm really enjoying the $18 dollar G4Free pack you recommended. I've been using it as my EDC and it's really a great little pack I don't have to worry about like the more expensive dyneema/cuben packs. I just broke one of the elastic shock cords today removing a thermarest and sandals from it. Don't get me wrong I love me some Palante, Zpacks, Bedrock and other pricey gear but some of the other consumables are close enough in weight and durability and are a lot cheaper. Keep up the videos.
I also got stuff sacks, cordage, the ozark trails folding sleeping pad. You can get running shorts and performance fabric tops at Goodwill very commonly, if you are looking to save money and dont wang to go to walmart. You can sometimes find other backpacking bits and bobs at goodwill.
Stanley Cook pot 10.00!! Comes to two cups (I don't use them), also purchased a cup - $4.99. awesome pot
Those two were pretty much made for each other.
Now if only Walmart sold a single walled stainless steel water bottle that fit the Stanley pot.
I often pick up water treatment tabs at Walmart, sometimes on clearance. You can also find some super light camp shoes.
I saw an Ozark Trail 12 Person 2 Room Instant Cabin Tent with Screen Room.
It's not exactly ultralight. It's about 50 lbs, but comes with a rollerbag.
Perfect for the AT.
lol!!!
Thomas Zabel I think Harbor Freight has off-road tires for those 😉
Make sure you get the matching set of bowling balls to toss in your pack while you're at it. :D
I have a Ozark trail tent. Left it out in the rain one night in my yard to test it. Next morning full of water. Ozark trail is optimal weather gear.
I found a 4 person tent that weighed 10 lbs. With group backpacking trips we would split up the weight among our group & it was the best dang tent we used. BTW it cost me $20. It worked just as good as my new $200 tent.
The “ozark trail” brand headlamps work great. As good or better than the more expensive brands.
Adjustable back covers are only 3.98 and worked well for my friend on our section of the at. Also roll top food storage bags come in a 3 pack for $5
Thank you!!!!! These are great tips especially for a beginner. It hard to not get sticker shock at rei when buying gear. I will totally pay up for the big 3 and shoes but why do I need a $22 spork????
Honest question: why purchase all the women's clothing?
Is there nothing meeting requirements of function/build/cost in the mens department?
Thank you guys for this!! I always say , "the name doesn't matter if the material/ingredients are the same" so many swear by $Name brands but off brands are just as good!!
Polycro in the paint dept is super cheap at Walmart. The also sell button down Wrangler brand synthetic plaid shirts, better ventilation than t shirts.
Love this video! There are also great ultralight daypacks that don't break the bank, and their freeze dried meals are cheaper than anywhere!
For the summer time on the AT, I bought a cheap $25ish +40F sleeping bag. Lighter that a loaf of bread and compacts half that size.
If its red then I got the same one. Its a great summer bag. Very compact and comfortable.
I don't think I've picked anything up at Walmart but I rock a 32 Degree base layer top/bottom that I got from Costco on the cheap.
Watch Costco in the late summer/fall for light weight merino tops in the women's wear.
kudos for not being afraid to wear women's clothes! it was actually really refreshing to see. I am a woman and half my wardrobe is men's clothes. some people care way too much about silly stuff. good for you guys for not being one of those people! :)
Thanks for the video guys. I’m aware of most of the stuff you mentioned but am interested in the “cuddlebuds” thanks for sharing.
Walmart has tons of budget friendly backpacking gear from Stanley cook pots to clothing etc. one particular item I recommend is a “poncho/tarp”. It can-usually only be found on the online Walmart store but it is really cheap and serves as a ground sheet for sleeping gear and rain cover for yourself and your backpack if you are hiking in the rain.
if you don't want to buy a roll of reflectix to make pot/cup cozies. Walmart can typically buy a car sun reflector that is same or similar material fairly cheap. heat retention for making a simple cozy really is impressive. might be worth looking into
Is that jacket still available anywhere? I like the looks of that red with yellow zippers, but can't find them online.
Nice to see budget gear vid, that's actually budget gear! Rock on brotha, you have a new subscriber!
I like the idea of doing a little searching for gear outside the normal channels. I've always thought it a little ironic that we strive for minimalist out door experiences with some times outrageously priced gear...
Off the top of my head, I’ve bought and used Mountain House meals (great price), a compass, a tick key, a Sawyer Squeeze and knee compression sleeves...not to mention food resupplies.
Where do you guys get your hiking tampons
I recently purchased 3 Russell moisture wicking shirts for a dollar a shirt at Walmart. The were left over from the summer and were advertising them on the rack at regular price. Download the Walmart app and and scan the tags, I always find good deals this way. Great video..
Collapsible two piece spoon/spork/knife combo for like $4. When combined it’s a long handled spoon and the whole thing weighs an ounce.
Regarding the Cuddleduds, what's your waist size? Do you carry rain pants when you're hiking or do you just throw these on?
I don't carry rain pants. I just use my shorts.
they also usually carry swiss army knives something like the SAK bantam camper, tinkerer, or for the ultralight guys the SAK classic should all serve a backpacker well.
I have a beater 2 person 4 season tent that I bought there it's held up well for us car and motorcycle camping, they still sell them for like 40$, its not a true 4 season but it's got us through some knarly rain up in British Columbia
you should do a full Walmart review of their camping gear ,starting with the big three , then giving us a final price, ideally for some one to begin their gear collection, we know it wont be ultralight, but everyone needs a tent, backpack, and sleeping gear.from some where
Cuddle duds are the best! At end of season, can always pick up clearance base layers and polyester shirts, both long and short sleeve. Highly recommend the Cuddle duds tho!
Yellow bottle HEET for alcohol stoves. I also got an Ozark Trail Down sleeping back a while back but don't think they make that one anymore.
Excellent! I live in Alaska and often pickup clearance sale items at the end of winter. Swiss Gear Puffy $10 for example. My base layer is also from Walmart $5 Dristar synthetic T, Russel tops and bottoms. For hiking at -20 F, I like the Wrangler synthetic pants that are fleece lined...I hike in these every day all winter long in Alaska.
Wrangler cargo pants with the 4 way stretch. They're $20 and are just as awfully close to being just as comfortable to a pair of nylon/elastic hiking pants I got at Eddie Bauer that retailed for $50 or more. I had to return one pair because of a bad seam, but I have two pairs that have lasted me daily wear doing construction for four months now.
I know a lot of people are whining about Walmart but they are in a lot of trail towns so you have to look at them as an option. My Walmart started carrying the small cans of Nido whole fat powdered milk and they also have the individually wrapped Tilamook cheeses at a good price. Lots of knors, Idahoan mashed potatoes and dry soups too. Nido is great with oatmeal, noodles, mashed potatoes, cocoa. Keeps a little meat on you scrawny through hikers. I prefer the men's clothes at Walmart but I'm 6'3". Great tips.
Awesome! This type of video would make a great series for inexpensive lightweight gear. Sleep system & pad, shelter, cooking, food, hygene, clothing, water, electronics, pack, etc. Gear that won't break your bank but works well and still is light.
also i think you can get some liquid silicone to waterproof your shoes there as well as shoe goo
I used a chopped and modified Wmart Montpelier Pack that I got on clearance for my first two seasons going ultralight. Found a Big Agnes style tent and closed cell foam pad there as well. Rounded it out with a Costco down quilt. Got started for under two hundred. Didn't invest a lot because I was not sure long hikes would become my jam. That was hundreds of miles ago! I've since graduated to some lighter, more specialized gear, but if I did not have the means I'd still use that original kit without complaint.
What about the big three? I’m looking for something that’s not real heavy but does not cost $700
Great video my man! I really do hate gear snobs. Like just today I was watching a video about the "Deuce of Spades" and was thinking to myself, "why in the hell would anyone pay $20 for a bent, 6" piece of aluminum gutter?"
picked up this sick double chest holster , you can find them in the womans section. i find B cups work great for my knife,wallet,bear spray.
One thing is for sure, Walmart has up there game when it comes to camping and hiking gear.
At least my local Walmart store has and they now carry the Klymit brand of camping and hiking gear. I was able to buy a Klymit sleeping pillow that is pretty darn comfortable for it's size. And it comes in a nice little poly type storage bag and only weighs 3.2 ounces.
I also picked up a "Slumberjack Dallas Divide" 65 liter backpack in the clearance section for only $29.99. Which is less than the regular retail price of some $85 dollars. The camping and hiking area had a lot of different types of gear that was also on clearance. I was able to pick up a Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system. For only $14.57 which again is like half the regular price.
I also picked up a foldable puring type saw in the garden section for $12.00 dollars. And it is way better than the one in the camping and hiking gear area. That was like some $17 dollars and the saw blade looked like it could snap off when you need it the most.
One other thing I picked up was a "Ozark Trail" Mummy bag that was on clearance for $11.99 and again was half the regular price.
One thing I don't suggest buying from your local Walmart store is the sleeping pads. The two different types that my local Walmart store sells. Are the roll up foam pad, and the closed cell foam type that folds up. In my opinion the roll up foam pads are a hassle to roll up when you are out on the trail. And they are quite heavy compared to the closed cell foldable foam pads.
But even the closed cell foam foldable pads are very uncomfortable. And for some $20 dollars I would think there are better options for the same price range.
Thanks for the tips!
My tips is, you can get the best of both worlds by shopping at second-hand stores like savers or goodwill. Me and my wife have found brands like Patagonia, Nike, north face, under armour for cheaper than the Walmart stuff.
Anyway, thanks for the video!
Philip H the Goodwill bins can be even better if you can deal with the process. I have found mountain hard wear, outdoor research, big agnes, Eddie Bauer, etc. Searching there, found a mountaineering tent last time, all by the pound
Depends on where you live. I've never had much luck at my Goodwill stores for outdoor wear. If you live near hiking aeas, you'll have better luck.
Kevin McCall that's likely very true, I go in and around Portland, OR so there is a lot
If you live in a region in which hiking is huge, Goodwill can be a good move because of how they process and redistribute items. Otherwise, don't count on finding anything that good there. And by good I mean better than Nike, North Face and Under Armour, which are generally in pretty bad shape by the time they make it to Goodwill or are not really suitable for the purpose. There IS decent NF stuff, but the stuff at Goodwill will be the heavier stuff you wouldn't want to hump across miles in a pack.
Aaron Hartje our goodwill is overly priced.... for the donated items that are initially free to them and then place a higher-than-Walmart price on their stuff
I've used to Frogg Toggs. Rain poncho like that in cold cold weather. It still helps keep you warm.
Window seal polycro for UL DIY tent footprint/ground tarp. Trash compactor bags for pack liners.
Thanks for another video! What are those pouches on your shoulder straps? They look handy. Did they come with the bag or did you add them?
Love the channel!! I picked up trekking poles for $10 in the close out bin. Needed for many UL tents and tarp setups along with walking.
On a trip I broke my graphite poles. Walmart came to the rescue and the aluminum poles have lasted much longer than expected.
Thanks Russ!
That's awesome. I've never tried trekking poles from Walmart 🤙🏼
I didn't read all the comments, but Walmart carries a 3 pack of dry bags for around $10. Three different sizes. I have had my set for about 18 months and about 200 miles and they are still holding up well.
I'll add Walmart is the best place to get the Uco Switch utensil set. It is $4.97 (which is about $3 cheaper than Amazon) and gives a fork, knife, spoon, and long utensil. It weighs in right at an ounce, so while not the lightest you can buy, well worth the weight for the utility. Some stores also carry the Uco Sporks (if you don't need the long handle of the Switch) which are $1.97 for plastic and $9.97 for titanium.
I'll also second the women's shorts. They're my all time favorite athletic shorts because some of the longer ones have pockets and are about $10 a pair.
Another super random thing I have that can be bought there is a Mead Five Star pencil case designed to go in a binder. It is made of ripstop nylon and has a couple of pockets while being almost completely flat. I keep my first aid kit in it and store it in the bladder pouch of my pack so I always know right where it is and can direct someone else to it easily if need be.
Is the smart water because it fits the sawyer?
Yup.
I always but a bag of there spicy trail mix..huge bag for $5.99 lasts 4 or 5 days depending how many others are dipping into your bag.
How many sawyer mini's do you need to buy...unless they freeze or you fail to back wash them, they will last forever...they filter 100,000 gallons of water, i doubt I could drink that much water in 30 years.
I just bought a new one for each big hike
I have some Starter brand shorts I got at Walmart 18 years ago when I started running and I still have them. They've outlasted many other pairs of name brand, much more expensive shorts.
Russel L2 is a decent lightweight base layer. It feels good and does not seem to pil like some fancier brands
You should do more videos like this! :)
off topic...how do you like that UD 15 pack? I have a race vest and thought about getting the fast pack 25 and gutting it to get it down lighter for summer trips.
+Scott Lawson I like it a lot! I wouldn't want to put too much weight in it, but it could totally work for some shorter summer stuff!
A few things to quickly point out.
1. That mustache is AWESOME !!!!
2. I love my sawyer filter. I carry it in my day back for day hikes. If i'm doing a multi day trip than I bring my katadyn pump.
Great video & nice work !!!
Thanks Koda! Glad you enjoyed it!
Hey man the pleasure is all mine. Thank you & keep up the awesome work !!!
Couldn't agree more on the running shorts and base layers. Great video!
the wold needs more videos like this! You don't need to spend a fortune to get out on the trail! There's obviously no replacement for quality but if you cant afford quality its good to know what you can get for your dollar!
Hiking poles, $18 for a pair. Probably wouldn't attack the CDT with them, but for day hikes and weekends, they're fine.
#1 thing I never forget to pack is underwear and socks. I grew up in a swampy, and humid place, and I’ve hiked through many miles of… well I wouldn’t call it ground, mud, or water, it’s like all 3 mixed into one… but nonetheless my feet and undies got wet. Always gotta keep atleast two pairs of both in my bag.
I bought my terming poles from Walmart for $15 LOL. I love them so much. No complaints. Have been using for several months
I actually had to re-supply my entire gear inventory at Walmart in Perrisberg after my pack was stolen at the hostel. Ended up spending about a hundred bucks on: a pack (2lbs), sawyer, frog togs, red accordion cup, cat can for an alcohol stove, smart water, tent stakes, deet, food. Solid deal. Still have the pack.
That sucks that someone stole all your gear.
I've heard some pretty good things about the packs they sell there. They definitely aren't trendy or good looking, but I hear they're really durable.
Not entirely sure but I heard the Wal-Mart stores will be carry cooler stuff like KLYMIT SLEEPING GEAR ETC..
I always carry a blue walmart tarp for my groundcloth. It's kinda heavy but it's cheap and no holes ever. It's only 5x6 I'm short
Picked up some mittens recently (worn in the PCT Border to Lake Morena video) from Walmart. That store is the devil, of course. But shout out to Wally World for always being there, open 24 hours usually, when we forget something right before a hike. We don’t have a great selection of outdoors stuff in San Diego but have been to a couple in other states with really good gear.
Ya, i'm all about that sympathy for the devil
Was out doing a section hike on the AT last year and it suddenly turned much colder than I had planned on but it was too late in the season to find a fleece sweater or anything so I bought a cheap fleece blanket and cut a strip off it to use as a wrap/ extra blanket/ wind skirt/ extra pillow. Worked so well I almost felt bad about kicking it out of my gear when I got finished.
Did you just say you prefer George walmart socks over darn tough socks?
Foldable water bottles & best price on waterproofing spray are two things I cam think of. Not sure on the quality of the water bottles.I have not used them yet. Find out in a week n half.
i bought my light weight sleeping bag from walmart. Its really small, but its only good for summer months. Perfect for sleeping in 55-60 degree weather, but I would never use it lower than 50 degrees.
Cool. I've never tried a Walmart sleeping bag.
So in scouts we hike in, set up camp and then do day hikes. For those I love the nylon package day pack at 3 ounces. It holds your ten essentials and lunch easily. And I still use the $10 plastic Buck knife at 1.5 oz for a full sized pocket knife. Wicked sharp and pretty disposable. Funny the best clothes are women's. Lol.
Goodwill has lots of good stuff for very cheap; anything brand name I own is from resale shops. I've bought some good stuff with the tags still attached. The trick is stopping in on a regular basis.
Wait! What? The China made stuff WM sells is just as good as the China made stuff the premium brands sell? Now, that just doesn't make any sense 🙄 I just bought an Ozark Trail H2O proof roll top duffle for $10, the SAME EXACT bag (save for the color) is sold by a "premium" company called "Held," for $60. I'd post pics of the ads if I could. Great tips Btw, thanks.
I haven't used them, but Walmart has some ul stakes for pretty cheap. I also have some 1 oz fleece gloves from there.
My body responds well to Gatorade. I use it for training and trips. I found a really cheap giant container of the powder at Walmart in my favorite flavor that is hard to find.
I don't want to know the process you went through to find out what your favorite flavor of Walmart is...
Super cool! I knew that Walmart had a bunch of useful stuff, but you even showed me things that I didn't know about. I'm totally going to go and look more closely now.
Quick and to the point video. Faster than Walmart's famous checkout lines. Thanks for the great ideas.