Hey thank you for watching! These are the kind of tips that first helped me go ultralight, and most of them being absolutely free! Even to this day this is still stuff that I do before each trip, so I hope this is helpful to you as well.
@@gypsygirlhikes It's so situational! You could easily be at half the base weight in summer vs winter. Even in the same season you could have intense weather and bug pressure, or be cowboy camping in the desert. There really shouldn't be one universal number.
Having seen about 90-95% of every video you've made in total, i think this is your best explanatory video and enjoyed it a lot. So well spoken, structured, elegant. I hope you're doing well!
Thank you very much! I try but it sometimes feels like it's hard to please everyone ya know! Either way I guess my thought is always to share info that I personally would want to see, or to have known when I started
I just need to thank you for all your content. More than anyone else. On TH-cam you inspire me to get out more, go lighter, and enjoy the outdoors. Your approach helps me in my 50s to keep up with my teens in the back country. Thank you, looking forward to you 2025 adventures
The older my knees get, the more they thank you for promoting ultralight hiking. I bounce between light weight and ultralight depending on the adventure and am now enjoying nearly every step. Cheers!
As an aging hiker I’ve had to shift to the lightest options I could find over time. I also started weighing everything a few years before that. Now I micromanage my food. The advanced planning and lightweight options allow me to continue doing what I love all while being as comfortable as possible. Great video!
I really liked the video. Thanks for putting out there. While I consider myself an ultralight hiker. My base weight is 12.5 lbs, while not hitting the 10 lbs limit, and most likely never will. I carry items that are essential for me, while others would consider luxury items. For me ultralight is simplicity and looking at the weight to performance ratio. If an item weighs an ounce or two more and preforms excellently in one area and well in different areas. If it can replace another piece or two of gear, I will take it. You are correct replacing gear with skills will lighten your pack considerable. Again, thank you for putting out content. It has all been excellent.
Great advice. That pack you started with reminded me a lot of my first backpacking trip (though mine was just a 3 day trip). I got rid of a lot of things and got a much lighter trekking pole tent before doing a shakedown hike on a section of the PCT. After those 100 miles, I was able to reduce my pack weight about another 10 lbs before a 2 week hike of the JMT. At the end of the JMT I decided to get a nice down quilt, which also allowed me to get a smaller lighter pack, reducing my pack weight even more. Now I feel good with my gear and what I bring depending on where and when I'm hiking. I think it is just a matter of being open to learning. The thing that will lighten your pack the most is knowledge, which weighs nothing.
What surprised me most is how ultralight made things more fun. I enjoy learning tarp configurations, knots, etc. i like no-soaking food the best and easy to try/practice at home. Minor thing I’d amend from the video - i love my compression sack i got for my quilt. It allows me to save a tone of VOLUME which lets me use a smaller frameless pack, and so i add weight from the compression sack, but save weight and add comfort with the frameless pack. A bit counterintuitive but clear case of where adding something with more weight lets you save weight.
I'll take volume savings at the expense of a little weight every time. (Fortunately they usually go together.) When you're scrambling off-trail, a big floppy pack with crap hanging off the outside is a real safety hazard! Big fan of running vest style shoulder straps that really make you one with the pack.
@@csn583 right. A tight low-volume pack means more stability and less energy expenditure trying to balance all this stuff that’s far away from your center of gravity. The compression sack gets that down for my quilt, which is the only high-volume item i carry.
Jupiter, in 2018 I went on my first solo 3 day backpacking trip to the Adirondacks in New York. I purposely hiked out to camp later in the afternoon because there was no way I'd hike back to my car in the dark if I chickened out. I spent roughly $1600 at REI, like you on the AT, I had everything I could possibly need. The pack weighed 42 pounds, my whole body hurt. The only piece I have now is a buff. Because of your UL videos my base weight is 10.2 pounds. Thank you!
I am glad to have been of help!! I think we all go through phases with backpacking, and it's cool in the end you can do it in so many different ways. That initial starting phase can be rough though!
The lightest things to bring with you are skills and confidence! All the research in the world is no replacement for getting out there as often as you can to see what you actually use (or don't), what holds up to your degree of abuse, and what degree of comfort you need to have a good time. I say this as an obsessive gear geek who has far too many times gone by the numbers and been less than satisfied. One tip I can offer is to use your camping stuff and skills in your daily life wherever you can. Shoes and clothes are the obvious example. Use CalTopo/Gaia for local hikes and around home to learn the functions. Eat a freeze dried meal (bought or DIY) at home now and then. Find reasons to put your knot tying skills to use until they're second nature. If you only blow the dust off your gear and skills a couple times per year, you're guaranteed to find literal and figurative holes in them at the worst possible time.
Biggest thing for me was just being open to trying what others were doing on easy weekend overnights. "Not bringing spare clothes to change into? that must be awful", until I tried it and didn't miss them at all. "trekking poles? I'm not 80", and now they're always with me. Still keeping my stove though lol Thanks for all the tips over the years Jupiter
That has been huge for me as well!! I love the short trips, and using them to try new things. I remember when I first bought an ultralight tent, it was awesome, I had been saving money for it for the past year, and really looking forward to it... but I also purchased a cheap flat tarp at the same time to give that a shot too, fully expecting to hate it! Maybe needless to say, since then I have done the vast majority of my hiking with a tarp as it turned out to be way more fun than I initially imagined. You never know what's going to stick until you try
@@JupiterHikesI want to hear more about your tarp use. I have a “light” 4 lb silpoly tent that I love but have been trying other 2lb trekking poles tents. I keep getting frustrated w how claustrophobic they feel and I don’t like them. Im tall 6’ and I like my space! How do you get there w a tarp and decide what to take for your shelter. I like messing w tarps but it feels like a brave choice to go without any mesh for mosquitoes etc. Your advice is so grounded. Thx.
Thanks for the logical and very helpful video. I went through the process of making sense of my gear, late last year. I had never paid much heed to this before - but, as I am getting old, I thought it wise to make the effort. Like you, I focused on editing OUT items first. I was amazed at how much weight I saved this way. I did not purchase expensive new gear, as I object to having a couple thousand dollars of stuff on my back. Call me cheap, if you will (I prefer the term "frugal"). 😊 Anyway, after a thorough going over of EVERYTHING, I managed to save over 15 lbs. And that with NO dyneema...and NO goose down. I did take some unusual steps, such as going stoveless, as SOP (I hardly used a stove anyway). I also adopted a bear can as standard, from now on (lots of problems with black bears in this part of the country). In the end, I got my late spring/summer/early fall base weight to about 12.2 lbs (including the bear can). Without the bear can, I would be right on the edge of the ultralight zone. My baseweight for the cooler times of year is around 15.6 lbs, also including the bear can. I consider those numbers to be pretty good, especially since I did not buy any expensive, ultralight gear. I use a 34 litre Osprey pack (3lbs 2 oz)....a DD 3 x 3 metre tarp (about 2 lbs with all of the trimmings)...and a hybrid, multilayer sleep system for the warmer times (only a little over 1 lb.). I don't do much cold weather backpacking anymore, so my synthetic 25 deg. sleeping bag mostly stays at home. Anyway, after several 3- 4 day trips this year, I am VERY pleased with the results of my lightweighting endeavours. I just retired and I am considering a try at one of the long trails (probably either the AT...or the PCT) - if my health holds out. We'll see. Anyway, I can say that, after putting the effort into lightening and simplifying my gear list - backpacking has becone more pleasurable than ever before !
You are so right about all the small things. Spreadsheets may sound ludicrous but, by the time you’ve got to your 63rd row, you can’t help questioning how much stuff you’re carrying. However, for me, the real problem lies with consumables. After all these years, I’m still bringing food home.
Hey, it doesn't hurt to have a bit extra, especially in riskier places. I've had a couple trips where I was just pushing it and I couldn't help but think how sketchy it would be if my itinerary got thrown off by even a day. I think a lot of it is about packing food that is more calorically weight-efficient than packing less calories (which I admit is something I'm still learning too).
Hey dang I should have mentioned food! It's tricky though to get right, and maybe similarly to the gear just being more 'critical' of what you carry is the ticket.
Food is a hard one for me too. I rarely have an appetite while hiking, but I enjoy eating very much at camp. For some reason, I keep bringing too many snacks! I'm slowly finding what snacks I DO like to eat when hiking so it's getting better. I still seem to bring home too many snacks.
I love this one, man. I've been a barefooter since 2015, and getting lighter has made it so enjoyable. I've never missed any of the things i left at home, but i sure do love the experience of a 9 lb load while wearing nothing beyond a tank top and shorts.
LOVE THIS INFO. You nailed it Jupiter - esp that point about research and knowing exactly what the situation requires. Takes the guess work out of packing. My biggest frustration now is the friggin weight of food! Does anyone else love a light base weight and then cringe when you add a week’s worth of food?? It sucks to need calories all the time 😂
Long live Jupiter! Lol, been using all your gear videos to shake down before I do the PCT in the spring. Seriously appreciate having such an amazing resources, always a fun watch, keep it up!
Good stuff dude. Thanks for the info. By the way somewhere on my computer I have a short video clip of you finishing the Corbett 18 mile race back in 2017. I ran the 50 mile that year. I am starting to hike more now, your videos are priceless! Great info dude !
Great video, Jupiter. Most of the time I am not UL but I seldom carry more than 20# with consumables, for a week until resupply. Everything changed when I got everything dialed in but, such is life when you get well into your 60s... Unfortunately I can't stand Dinema, because of the condensation and stuffy feel but I have found the perfect shelter system for me, 10 years ago. I am a verticality challenged older woman. Yep, other than 3 Osprey backpacks, all my gear is not REI, type gear, but Cottage industry, I have 5 items from Six Moon Design ,2 items from ZPacks, 3 items from GoLite ( no longer in business)..3 from Paca...2 items from Katabotic...Tech... well I don't trust it with my life, ie I carry a paper map and flat plate compass. I have a personal beacon, because my children and 90+ Mother require it, but it is 10 oz. I really do not think adds anything to my backpack, peddling or paddling adventures, and it has a $10-15 per month charge, but I guess loved one's peace of mind is priceless. I also have a " Smartphone "... really a waterproof camera and a hand full of change... is easier, but hay my son pays for the service and I just purchase the device of my choice. I guess I have become a grouchy old pop... Thank you again for another great video. Blessings.
I know everyone recommends Enlightened Equipment quilts but I always tell people to just read the Reddit threads comparing EE to Katabatic and UGQ. Yes, EE is more minimal, but the weight is actually almost identical and they are way more drafty. You have to compare, say, the 30 degree Katabatic with the 20 degree EE due to the different rating marketing. That's why people think EE is lighter.
This video & your last one. Reminder (in part) of a 25 year ago book, Extreme Alpinism, Climbing Light, High & Fast, by Mark Twight (who I met years ago). He changed the mindset for a lot of climbers & mountaineers & new products sprouted. In backpacking years ago, Go Light had a serious of products, but the business model faded. You display a variety of vital objects that can be use on treks & long ventures. Myself, though I'm still reminded of when it was a necessity to have mountaineering boots, lite crampons and ice axe, for some of the ventures we did - it wouldn't have been safe otherwise, particularly on icy conditions and in many downhill endeavors. Trek on sir, and stay healthy. Over time, the quality not the quantity of the pursuits, will matter.
Gear Trade is making some of those American brands GGG carries available in Canada. Not as extensive as Garage Groen Gear but a good access point. Graat video as always with reslly solid tips.
I've never liked to carry a backpack on my back. I only went on day trips without a backpack. Then I discovered ultralight backpacking and thought I'd give it a try. I bought some basic gear and managed to cram everything into a 27l lightweight daypack (baseweight 6.5kg). And I found that I was having fun with the lightweight pack. I'm not an ultralight yet, but now I know what I want and I'll get under 4.5kg when I spend more money. Of all the youtober's I like your gear the most and that's what I'm trying to get closer to. It's just a shame that a lot of US cottage brands are not easily obtainable in Europe.
More and more ultralight european brands pop up all the time so that is nice and hopefully helpful to you! And I know some people will shop at garagegrowngear even though they are in the US, because in a single order you can get from a bunch of different brands to avoid multiple customs forms and fees if you were buying from all those brands individually. Anyway glad the videos have been helpful! I've tried a bunch over the years, there is no best way to go about it, all sorts of stuff works great and is fun. Hopefully you find the stuff you're looking for!
It's crazy how easy it is to shed weight. My first big hike was the R2R. I live on the East Coast so we trained on the AT. My first trip, I carried 45# before water. By the time I did three days in the Grand Canyon, I was down to 23#. I still had everything (and a little more) that I needed. I even carried a DLSR and Lens, that I probably won't take again.
Hey, I didn't know GGG sells sport caps (10:16)! I always break mine, and it's getting very hard to find bottles of water with them at the stores around me. So that's awesome (as is the video in general :)). And no, the Amazon caps do not work well at all.
Leave the puffy behind… ooh, that one hits. I don’t know if I could regardless of trail or weather. Maybe I need to think more deeply about this one haha! It’s only 5.5oz so I justify it by weight and also “what if” weather scenarios. Good one for me to consider. Thanks Jupiter.
Jupiter, do you have any videos on what you would bring for a day hike? I only ever do day hikes here in Ireland 🇮🇪 I want to hike the west highland way in Scotland 🏴 it’s probably gonna take 7 days. Any tips from going from a day hiker to attempting at hike that’s 96 miles 😊
It is a video I've been meaning to film for a long time now! Was just thinking about it a week ago again, but now that it's winter I'll go for it and make it by spring! I think in general if you do day hikes often you already have the clothes, probably already have a flashlight and battery bank, your phone. You probably already have shoes and socks you like and are somewhat versed in taking care of your feet. From there the big things you'd need would be a backpack, sleeping bag, tent and pad. Maybe you could borrow from a friend? Find used online? I made two videos last winter all about budget gear that might be worth checking out. The first of the two talks about improvising, finding gear for free, or very discounted. While the second video talks about all of my favorite cheap options. My general advice though would be if possible to get out on a short overnight trip near home to try out your gear, as that can be a lot kinder than jumping right into something bigger. Then to have fun! Take it slow and plan to take it slow as you could always go faster while out there, but if you've only allotted yourself a brief time it can be stressful.
I'm very interested in ultralight hiking. One thing that worries me, though, is being warm in the winter if camping. I've seen some ultras say to just be cold and deal with it. I don't think that is an intelligent move. That would be my only problem. I get cold easily. What would you suggest? Great video! I need to check out Garage Grown Gear!
In true winter it would be very difficult to go ultralight and be happy. In the other three seasons however and ultralight is great! Winter would be tricky though and I don't have much experience with that. Basic things to consider though; boiled water in a nalgene placed in your sleeping bag to warm it up. Neoprene socks to keep feet dry and warm. Inflatable pad with a foam pad under it. In the end a lot of things in this video still apply but in different ways. Going on short trips near home and seeing what works! Have the safety net of home and the possibility to bail if gear isn't working out. Being critical of what works and what doesn't. If you live in the southern states then winter ultralight is no problem! But I don't think that is your question.
Thanks for your great videos. Like you, I've lowered my weight massively over the past five years. Learning what I can leave behind after each yearly hike. Moved downed the ladder, from tent, sleeping bag + pad, pack clothes (last big change). My current set up is not really ultra ultra light but my base weight is pretty good at around 5kg (with a super solid pack capable of carrying 30kg comfortably (Seek Outside Divide). I need this pack since I carry all my food with for 14 days adding 10 kg sometimes more. I'm considering not cooking for supper (lunch and breakfast I cold soak) so maybe that's my next change. Just wondering how you clean/sterilize your cold soaking container? I also thought about adopting Skurka's system of water purification - only chlorine dioxide and chucking the filter (I totally hate this job too). I guess, I could use chlorine dioxide to also purify the container but need to time this right and also have to carry that liter of sterilization water during the day (or leave it night but then forgo the cold soaking for breakfast). Also, I'm worried that in some areas I may not find really clear water to drink and without a filter it would be gross to drink (even if sterile). What do you do for clean water and also for sterilizing your cold soaking container? Thanks again!
Great video, as usual! I have to say, I have a really hard time watching that shot of you holding your backpack off the edge of the cliff. I've seen it in some of your other videos and I almost have to close my eyes. I know I'm off topic, this was really good information. Cheers!
Tarps fascinate me. When you use a tarp do you ever put a bug net over your head? I can imagine that might be weird or not really comfortable. Can you do a video on your tarp experiences, tips and tricks. A case for when you use it vs when you would not etc. Thx.
When using a tarp I always carry a bug headnet as a 'just in case' item and at 1oz it's worth it given the lack of protection a tarp offers. In general though if a trip is expected to be seriously buggy, like appalachian trail in May I would probably just rather use a tent instead. There are however some little things I do on trips where I have the tarp even though I know there will be bugs. I camp away from water as that's where they breed, and it's amazing how they just go away the further from a lake you get. I camp in a place with a slight breeze as that helps to blow them away. I camp in spots at higher elevation as they seem to prefer valleys since that's where water pools. These three things and I've generally been fine! In the end that is one of it's limiting factors, and where planning for different seasons can be important, and how you could save a lot of weight given different conditions!
My 900ml pot and 220g canister stove kit combined are as heavy as my frameless pack 😪 It’s really so stupid, too, because those meals that you would hydrate (ramen, instant mashed potatoes, oatmeal) are very middle of the pack (no pun intended) in terms of caloric density. At this point, I might just keep a smaller pot and canister to only heat water for maté and also for a hot water bottle on the coldest nights. If there’s gas left over before a resupply, then I can treat myself to a hot meal. Thank you for the inspiration to think about what is truly needed on trail!
I'd appreciate more tips on how to do research. I usually use the National Weather Service for forecasts, but it often seems little better than a guess. Especially with rain. At this point, I pretty much always bring a rain jacket. Temperatures can also be highly subjective to where exactly you are on the mountain. If it drops overnight to 32 degrees versus the expected 39 degrees, I do feel that's significant enough to, well, feel. Besides also dealing with stuff freezing. Anyways, would love more tips on how to research. Thanks for all your info over the years.
A Frisbee is a multi use item: Plate, rain hat, bear deterrent etc. 😅 Whilst I don't think I'll ever be "ultralight", I have got my base weight down from about 25 pounds on my first trip, to about 13-14 pounds currently. Videos like this are very useful for all backpackers, even if they don't want to go as far as being "ultralight". I appreciate all of your excellent videos over the years.
I am intrigued by using a quilt versus a bag with full zip that will open to a quilt. With my bag 90 per cent of the time it is a quilt but I can zip up if cold, which I thought would be more efficient for heat retention (and way easier to deploy in the middle of the night) than the way quilts attach to a pad. When that quilt is attached to a pad, that is exactly what I am avoiding, having to wriggle in and out of a sausage skin. Maybe I should give a quilt with attachment straps a go and really find out which is better for me.
I have never before used the attachment points, but yeah that would definitely help with the potential for drafts! Instead I get a quilt which is slightly larger. So instead of a regular size I get a wide. It's cozier, and I can better prevent drafts this way. Both the straps and slightly larger would be great to retain the warmth!
Friendly reminder that hiking is supposed to be fun. If cold soaking makes you want to kys just bring the damn stove. Going ultralight is cool but you're still a "real" hiker if you don't want or can't afford to be. I have had many a nice night drinking hot apple cider sunset while watching the sunset on the shores of Lake Superior before curling up in my pre-owned REI mummy bag inside my "cheap" nylon Durston.That said. Loved the tips! Making it anywhere with a 70lb pack is honestly kind of a wonky achievement. I don't think I could've made it to the car. 😅
hey thanks for the video Jupiter ! I'll take the oportunity to ask here, but does anyone comes from europe ? I'm from Switzerland and I can't realy find a nice website like garage grown gear nearby with ultralight focused gear. thanks !
One of the heavy items in my pack is my first aid kit. I've never used it, but it gives me comfort (partly because I take my kids with me). Any thoughts on this?
How heavy? It is a good responsible thing to have a complete first aid kit. Not only for surviving, but also to be more comfortable in case of injury and being able to continue. I used both my first aid and repair kit (on bike tours) more often to help others than to help myself😅
Tent + backpack + inflatable sleeping pad + sleeping bag = the big 4. Small budget (around 380 euros) - backpack : Naturehike UL - tent : Naturehike cloud up 2 - down sleeping bag (a no-name one on Ali) - inflatable sleeping pad (MT500 decathlon) 1,1kg + 1,8kg + 1,2kg + 0,7kg... already 4,8kg with the best values (weight/price) items. And you have nothing else than the "big 4". It isn't easy to stay below 4,5kg just with these 4 items. Only if you put big $/€/£ on them, you can save hundreds of grams here and there. (NB : some people can sleep on foam pad - save money and limit weight - but few of us are part of them)
Really appreciated that these tips were universal and not gender based. A lot of ultralight content I have seen is made by men geared towards men so thanks for being inclusive :)
Hi Juniper, Can you do a series where you take out absolute beginner views on ultralight trips. There isn't anything like that on youtube. Great niche. Thanks
Thanks for the excellent videos! You’ve been super helpful and confidence inspiring over the years. You ever check out Timmermade? I just got a 20 degree false bottom bag (Serpentes) @ 16oz and a rain jacket @ 3.2oz. Killer UL.
I can't for the life of me get below 15 lbs, but that's a comfortable 15 including 2 pillows and a cover sheet for my sleeping pad. I have enough trouble getting to sleep at home, so I'm taking any advantage on the trail.
@@JupiterHikes I'm here for it lol do you have a vid on setting up a tarp that goes into stuff like hey the wind is blowing this way, it is or isn't raining, anticipating if the direction of rain or wind will change, etc.? That seems like the hardest thing to think when I start to consider tarp-ing
Have you conferred for your age and height you might be 20 lbs overweight? Not a criticism in any way. Secondly people who use quilts are in danger of being unsafe in cold rain and wind. They offer no benefit
At 81 I try to keep my backing weight low but not "gram weenie low". I like the comfort of a good pack on the trail and the comfort of a good sleeping bag and mattress. EX. TENT-> Tarptent NOTCH LI Dyneema solo tent, SLEEP SYSTEM-> BAG - Western Mountaineering Megalite overstuffed to 20 F. AIR MATTRESS - REI Flash insulated 3 season R 3.2 PACK-> Osprey EXOS 58 COOKSET-> Trail Designs Sidewinder Caldera Cone with matching 3 cup anodized aluminum pot and ESBIT tablet fuel W/ custom tab holder. But yeah, "Small items matter"! "Ounces make pounds." HOWSOMEVER... I demand a pack with a frame AND a good hip belt. And I want my hiking poles with straps B/C, as a former XC ski patroller snd racer I know how to properly use the straps to keep my workload down. But NO titanium pots/cups please. My last 'longer" backpack was when I was 74 and did the Grand Canyon, North Rim to South Rim in 4 interesting, moderately paced days.
Hey thank you for watching! These are the kind of tips that first helped me go ultralight, and most of them being absolutely free! Even to this day this is still stuff that I do before each trip, so I hope this is helpful to you as well.
Great video Jupiter , I just purchased the zpacks pivot solo tent to help lighten my pack weight! I put up a first look video on it on my page.
I love these videos you make , I love all the tips , thank you ! I almost have all my gear!
Thank you for being a creator. I've learned tons from you. Not down to 10 lbs yet but getting there at 13 for winter! Not bad.
You should sign up and give a Ted talk presentation
@@gypsygirlhikes It's so situational! You could easily be at half the base weight in summer vs winter. Even in the same season you could have intense weather and bug pressure, or be cowboy camping in the desert. There really shouldn't be one universal number.
Having seen about 90-95% of every video you've made in total, i think this is your best explanatory video and enjoyed it a lot. So well spoken, structured, elegant. I hope you're doing well!
Thank you very much! I try but it sometimes feels like it's hard to please everyone ya know! Either way I guess my thought is always to share info that I personally would want to see, or to have known when I started
I just need to thank you for all your content. More than anyone else. On TH-cam you inspire me to get out more, go lighter, and enjoy the outdoors. Your approach helps me in my 50s to keep up with my teens in the back country. Thank you, looking forward to you 2025 adventures
The older my knees get, the more they thank you for promoting ultralight hiking.
I bounce between light weight and ultralight depending on the adventure and am now enjoying nearly every step.
Cheers!
As an aging hiker I’ve had to shift to the lightest options I could find over time. I also started weighing everything a few years before that. Now I micromanage my food. The advanced planning and lightweight options allow me to continue doing what I love all while being as comfortable as possible. Great video!
That’s where I am also. It’s critical not to stress knees once you’re over 40
I really liked the video. Thanks for putting out there. While I consider myself an ultralight hiker. My base weight is 12.5 lbs, while not hitting the 10 lbs limit, and most likely never will. I carry items that are essential for me, while others would consider luxury items. For me ultralight is simplicity and looking at the weight to performance ratio. If an item weighs an ounce or two more and preforms excellently in one area and well in different areas. If it can replace another piece or two of gear, I will take it. You are correct replacing gear with skills will lighten your pack considerable. Again, thank you for putting out content. It has all been excellent.
Great advice. That pack you started with reminded me a lot of my first backpacking trip (though mine was just a 3 day trip). I got rid of a lot of things and got a much lighter trekking pole tent before doing a shakedown hike on a section of the PCT. After those 100 miles, I was able to reduce my pack weight about another 10 lbs before a 2 week hike of the JMT. At the end of the JMT I decided to get a nice down quilt, which also allowed me to get a smaller lighter pack, reducing my pack weight even more. Now I feel good with my gear and what I bring depending on where and when I'm hiking. I think it is just a matter of being open to learning. The thing that will lighten your pack the most is knowledge, which weighs nothing.
What surprised me most is how ultralight made things more fun. I enjoy learning tarp configurations, knots, etc. i like no-soaking food the best and easy to try/practice at home. Minor thing I’d amend from the video - i love my compression sack i got for my quilt. It allows me to save a tone of VOLUME which lets me use a smaller frameless pack, and so i add weight from the compression sack, but save weight and add comfort with the frameless pack. A bit counterintuitive but clear case of where adding something with more weight lets you save weight.
Incredible little trick there! A great example of the creativity that can make backpacking gear so fun to mess around with!
I'll take volume savings at the expense of a little weight every time. (Fortunately they usually go together.) When you're scrambling off-trail, a big floppy pack with crap hanging off the outside is a real safety hazard! Big fan of running vest style shoulder straps that really make you one with the pack.
@@csn583 right. A tight low-volume pack means more stability and less energy expenditure trying to balance all this stuff that’s far away from your center of gravity. The compression sack gets that down for my quilt, which is the only high-volume item i carry.
Jupiter, in 2018 I went on my first solo 3 day backpacking trip to the Adirondacks in New York. I purposely hiked out to camp later in the afternoon because there was no way I'd hike back to my car in the dark if I chickened out. I spent roughly $1600 at REI, like you on the AT, I had everything I could possibly need. The pack weighed 42 pounds, my whole body hurt. The only piece I have now is a buff. Because of your UL videos my base weight is 10.2 pounds. Thank you!
I am glad to have been of help!! I think we all go through phases with backpacking, and it's cool in the end you can do it in so many different ways. That initial starting phase can be rough though!
The same about me)). Hello from Russia @@JupiterHikes
This was great. Thanks for taking the time to make this video
Great video Jupiter, always excited for videos like this.
The lightest things to bring with you are skills and confidence! All the research in the world is no replacement for getting out there as often as you can to see what you actually use (or don't), what holds up to your degree of abuse, and what degree of comfort you need to have a good time. I say this as an obsessive gear geek who has far too many times gone by the numbers and been less than satisfied.
One tip I can offer is to use your camping stuff and skills in your daily life wherever you can. Shoes and clothes are the obvious example. Use CalTopo/Gaia for local hikes and around home to learn the functions. Eat a freeze dried meal (bought or DIY) at home now and then. Find reasons to put your knot tying skills to use until they're second nature.
If you only blow the dust off your gear and skills a couple times per year, you're guaranteed to find literal and figurative holes in them at the worst possible time.
you are one of the people that got me on the right track going ultralight. thank-you!
Biggest thing for me was just being open to trying what others were doing on easy weekend overnights. "Not bringing spare clothes to change into? that must be awful", until I tried it and didn't miss them at all. "trekking poles? I'm not 80", and now they're always with me. Still keeping my stove though lol
Thanks for all the tips over the years Jupiter
That has been huge for me as well!! I love the short trips, and using them to try new things. I remember when I first bought an ultralight tent, it was awesome, I had been saving money for it for the past year, and really looking forward to it... but I also purchased a cheap flat tarp at the same time to give that a shot too, fully expecting to hate it! Maybe needless to say, since then I have done the vast majority of my hiking with a tarp as it turned out to be way more fun than I initially imagined. You never know what's going to stick until you try
@@JupiterHikesI want to hear more about your tarp use. I have a “light” 4 lb silpoly tent that I love but have been trying other 2lb trekking poles tents. I keep getting frustrated w how claustrophobic they feel and I don’t like them. Im tall 6’ and I like my space! How do you get there w a tarp and decide what to take for your shelter. I like messing w tarps but it feels like a brave choice to go without any mesh for mosquitoes etc. Your advice is so grounded. Thx.
Thanks!
Thanks for the logical and very helpful video. I went through the process of making sense of my gear, late last year. I had never paid much heed to this before - but, as I am getting old, I thought it wise to make the effort. Like you, I focused on editing OUT items first. I was amazed at how much weight I saved this way. I did not purchase expensive new gear, as I object to having a couple thousand dollars of stuff on my back. Call me cheap, if you will (I prefer the term "frugal"). 😊
Anyway, after a thorough going over of EVERYTHING, I managed to save over 15 lbs. And that with NO dyneema...and NO goose down. I did take some unusual steps, such as going stoveless, as SOP (I hardly used a stove anyway). I also adopted a bear can as standard, from now on (lots of problems with black bears in this part of the country).
In the end, I got my late spring/summer/early fall base weight to about 12.2 lbs (including the bear can). Without the bear can, I would be right on the edge of the ultralight zone. My baseweight for the cooler times of year is around 15.6 lbs, also including the bear can. I consider those numbers to be pretty good, especially since I did not buy any expensive, ultralight gear. I use a 34 litre Osprey pack (3lbs 2 oz)....a DD 3 x 3 metre tarp (about 2 lbs with all of the trimmings)...and a hybrid, multilayer sleep system for the warmer times (only a little over 1 lb.). I don't do much cold weather backpacking anymore, so my synthetic 25 deg. sleeping bag mostly stays at home.
Anyway, after several 3- 4 day trips this year, I am VERY pleased with the results of my lightweighting endeavours. I just retired and I am considering a try at one of the long trails (probably either the AT...or the PCT) - if my health holds out. We'll see. Anyway, I can say that, after putting the effort into lightening and simplifying my gear list - backpacking has becone more pleasurable than ever before !
Thus is where I am in the process of editing, not wanting to spend a ton of time, using what I have plus a bear can bc we have bears in eastern PA.
What sleep system are you using?
Outstanding episode man, beautifully elaborated and presented this episode! Bravo 👏
You are so right about all the small things. Spreadsheets may sound ludicrous but, by the time you’ve got to your 63rd row, you can’t help questioning how much stuff you’re carrying. However, for me, the real problem lies with consumables. After all these years, I’m still bringing food home.
Hey, it doesn't hurt to have a bit extra, especially in riskier places. I've had a couple trips where I was just pushing it and I couldn't help but think how sketchy it would be if my itinerary got thrown off by even a day. I think a lot of it is about packing food that is more calorically weight-efficient than packing less calories (which I admit is something I'm still learning too).
Hey dang I should have mentioned food! It's tricky though to get right, and maybe similarly to the gear just being more 'critical' of what you carry is the ticket.
@@JupiterHikes A whole other video, look forward to watching it!
Food is a hard one for me too. I rarely have an appetite while hiking, but I enjoy eating very much at camp. For some reason, I keep bringing too many snacks! I'm slowly finding what snacks I DO like to eat when hiking so it's getting better. I still seem to bring home too many snacks.
Your tips are always welcomed 👍🏾
I love this one, man. I've been a barefooter since 2015, and getting lighter has made it so enjoyable. I've never missed any of the things i left at home, but i sure do love the experience of a 9 lb load while wearing nothing beyond a tank top and shorts.
Thank you for all the knowledge you leave us with. Every ounce counts!
LOVE THIS INFO. You nailed it Jupiter - esp that point about research and knowing exactly what the situation requires. Takes the guess work out of packing.
My biggest frustration now is the friggin weight of food! Does anyone else love a light base weight and then cringe when you add a week’s worth of food?? It sucks to need calories all the time 😂
In my opinion you are number one!!! Jupiter and Rambo are related. Love your channel. Love your spirit! Merry Xmas.
Long live Jupiter! Lol, been using all your gear videos to shake down before I do the PCT in the spring. Seriously appreciate having such an amazing resources, always a fun watch, keep it up!
Great video! I've been ultralight for years & it's always a struggle convincing people it's easy to go ultralight. Hopefully this video helps!
Good stuff dude. Thanks for the info. By the way somewhere on my computer I have a short video clip of you finishing the Corbett 18 mile race back in 2017. I ran the 50 mile that year. I am starting to hike more now, your videos are priceless! Great info dude !
I did the corbett 50k if I am remembering right! A lot of fun in that one!
My bad . 50k
Always good, Jupiter, thanks.
This is such a great video. I’ve seen you on the suggested videos for a while but this one is what got me to subscribe. Also McAfee Knob 😊😊
Great video, Jupiter. Most of the time I am not UL but I seldom carry more than 20# with consumables, for a week until resupply. Everything changed when I got everything dialed in but, such is life when you get well into your 60s... Unfortunately I can't stand Dinema, because of the condensation and stuffy feel but I have found the perfect shelter system for me, 10 years ago. I am a verticality challenged older woman. Yep, other than 3 Osprey backpacks, all my gear is not REI, type gear, but Cottage industry, I have 5 items from Six Moon Design ,2 items from ZPacks, 3 items from GoLite ( no longer in business)..3 from Paca...2 items from Katabotic...Tech... well I don't trust it with my life, ie I carry a paper map and flat plate compass. I have a personal beacon, because my children and 90+ Mother require it, but it is 10 oz. I really do not think adds anything to my backpack, peddling or paddling adventures, and it has a $10-15 per month charge, but I guess loved one's peace of mind is priceless. I also have a " Smartphone "... really a waterproof camera and a hand full of change... is easier, but hay my son pays for the service and I just purchase the device of my choice. I guess I have become a grouchy old pop... Thank you again for another great video. Blessings.
Comment 4 algorithm and great content as always. Knowledge is power, amen! Czech Republic PCTer from 2020
I know everyone recommends Enlightened Equipment quilts but I always tell people to just read the Reddit threads comparing EE to Katabatic and UGQ. Yes, EE is more minimal, but the weight is actually almost identical and they are way more drafty. You have to compare, say, the 30 degree Katabatic with the 20 degree EE due to the different rating marketing. That's why people think EE is lighter.
This video & your last one. Reminder (in part) of a 25 year ago book, Extreme Alpinism, Climbing Light, High & Fast, by Mark Twight (who I met years ago). He changed the mindset for a lot of climbers & mountaineers & new products sprouted. In backpacking years ago, Go Light had a serious of products, but the business model faded. You display a variety of vital objects that can be use on treks & long ventures. Myself, though I'm still reminded of when it was a necessity to have mountaineering boots, lite crampons and ice axe, for some of the ventures we did - it wouldn't have been safe otherwise, particularly on icy conditions and in many downhill endeavors. Trek on sir, and stay healthy. Over time, the quality not the quantity of the pursuits, will matter.
Gear Trade is making some of those American brands GGG carries available in Canada. Not as extensive as Garage Groen Gear but a good access point. Graat video as always with reslly solid tips.
Great video! As my old Scoutmaster used to say "ounces equal pounds and pounds equal pain"
Great info/tips. Thanks for sharing.
I've never liked to carry a backpack on my back. I only went on day trips without a backpack. Then I discovered ultralight backpacking and thought I'd give it a try. I bought some basic gear and managed to cram everything into a 27l lightweight daypack (baseweight 6.5kg). And I found that I was having fun with the lightweight pack. I'm not an ultralight yet, but now I know what I want and I'll get under 4.5kg when I spend more money.
Of all the youtober's I like your gear the most and that's what I'm trying to get closer to. It's just a shame that a lot of US cottage brands are not easily obtainable in Europe.
More and more ultralight european brands pop up all the time so that is nice and hopefully helpful to you! And I know some people will shop at garagegrowngear even though they are in the US, because in a single order you can get from a bunch of different brands to avoid multiple customs forms and fees if you were buying from all those brands individually.
Anyway glad the videos have been helpful! I've tried a bunch over the years, there is no best way to go about it, all sorts of stuff works great and is fun. Hopefully you find the stuff you're looking for!
It's crazy how easy it is to shed weight. My first big hike was the R2R. I live on the East Coast so we trained on the AT. My first trip, I carried 45# before water. By the time I did three days in the Grand Canyon, I was down to 23#. I still had everything (and a little more) that I needed. I even carried a DLSR and Lens, that I probably won't take again.
I always enjoy JupiterHikes videos.
Great advices as always Jupiter!
Thanks for this video. I’m glad I found your channel.
Hey, I didn't know GGG sells sport caps (10:16)! I always break mine, and it's getting very hard to find bottles of water with them at the stores around me. So that's awesome (as is the video in general :)). And no, the Amazon caps do not work well at all.
Glad that you're doing well jupe
Leave the puffy behind… ooh, that one hits. I don’t know if I could regardless of trail or weather. Maybe I need to think more deeply about this one haha!
It’s only 5.5oz so I justify it by weight and also “what if” weather scenarios. Good one for me to consider. Thanks Jupiter.
Jupiter, do you have any videos on what you would bring for a day hike? I only ever do day hikes here in Ireland 🇮🇪 I want to hike the west highland way in Scotland 🏴 it’s probably gonna take 7 days. Any tips from going from a day hiker to attempting at hike that’s 96 miles 😊
It is a video I've been meaning to film for a long time now! Was just thinking about it a week ago again, but now that it's winter I'll go for it and make it by spring!
I think in general if you do day hikes often you already have the clothes, probably already have a flashlight and battery bank, your phone. You probably already have shoes and socks you like and are somewhat versed in taking care of your feet.
From there the big things you'd need would be a backpack, sleeping bag, tent and pad. Maybe you could borrow from a friend? Find used online? I made two videos last winter all about budget gear that might be worth checking out. The first of the two talks about improvising, finding gear for free, or very discounted. While the second video talks about all of my favorite cheap options.
My general advice though would be if possible to get out on a short overnight trip near home to try out your gear, as that can be a lot kinder than jumping right into something bigger. Then to have fun! Take it slow and plan to take it slow as you could always go faster while out there, but if you've only allotted yourself a brief time it can be stressful.
I'm very interested in ultralight hiking. One thing that worries me, though, is being warm in the winter if camping. I've seen some ultras say to just be cold and deal with it. I don't think that is an intelligent move. That would be my only problem. I get cold easily. What would you suggest? Great video! I need to check out Garage Grown Gear!
In true winter it would be very difficult to go ultralight and be happy. In the other three seasons however and ultralight is great! Winter would be tricky though and I don't have much experience with that.
Basic things to consider though; boiled water in a nalgene placed in your sleeping bag to warm it up. Neoprene socks to keep feet dry and warm. Inflatable pad with a foam pad under it. In the end a lot of things in this video still apply but in different ways. Going on short trips near home and seeing what works! Have the safety net of home and the possibility to bail if gear isn't working out. Being critical of what works and what doesn't.
If you live in the southern states then winter ultralight is no problem! But I don't think that is your question.
Thanks for your great videos. Like you, I've lowered my weight massively over the past five years. Learning what I can leave behind after each yearly hike. Moved downed the ladder, from tent, sleeping bag + pad, pack clothes (last big change). My current set up is not really ultra ultra light but my base weight is pretty good at around 5kg (with a super solid pack capable of carrying 30kg comfortably (Seek Outside Divide). I need this pack since I carry all my food with for 14 days adding 10 kg sometimes more. I'm considering not cooking for supper (lunch and breakfast I cold soak) so maybe that's my next change. Just wondering how you clean/sterilize your cold soaking container? I also thought about adopting Skurka's system of water purification - only chlorine dioxide and chucking the filter (I totally hate this job too). I guess, I could use chlorine dioxide to also purify the container but need to time this right and also have to carry that liter of sterilization water during the day (or leave it night but then forgo the cold soaking for breakfast). Also, I'm worried that in some areas I may not find really clear water to drink and without a filter it would be gross to drink (even if sterile). What do you do for clean water and also for sterilizing your cold soaking container? Thanks again!
Simply the best hiking content on youtube. Excellent, thank you.
Great video, as usual! I have to say, I have a really hard time watching that shot of you holding your backpack off the edge of the cliff. I've seen it in some of your other videos and I almost have to close my eyes. I know I'm off topic, this was really good information. Cheers!
Tarps fascinate me. When you use a tarp do you ever put a bug net over your head? I can imagine that might be weird or not really comfortable. Can you do a video on your tarp experiences, tips and tricks. A case for when you use it vs when you would not etc. Thx.
When using a tarp I always carry a bug headnet as a 'just in case' item and at 1oz it's worth it given the lack of protection a tarp offers. In general though if a trip is expected to be seriously buggy, like appalachian trail in May I would probably just rather use a tent instead.
There are however some little things I do on trips where I have the tarp even though I know there will be bugs. I camp away from water as that's where they breed, and it's amazing how they just go away the further from a lake you get. I camp in a place with a slight breeze as that helps to blow them away. I camp in spots at higher elevation as they seem to prefer valleys since that's where water pools. These three things and I've generally been fine!
In the end that is one of it's limiting factors, and where planning for different seasons can be important, and how you could save a lot of weight given different conditions!
@@JupiterHikesThx for all those tips! It’s definitely a use case scenario.
My 900ml pot and 220g canister stove kit combined are as heavy as my frameless pack 😪 It’s really so stupid, too, because those meals that you would hydrate (ramen, instant mashed potatoes, oatmeal) are very middle of the pack (no pun intended) in terms of caloric density. At this point, I might just keep a smaller pot and canister to only heat water for maté and also for a hot water bottle on the coldest nights. If there’s gas left over before a resupply, then I can treat myself to a hot meal. Thank you for the inspiration to think about what is truly needed on trail!
Great video!
I'd appreciate more tips on how to do research. I usually use the National Weather Service for forecasts, but it often seems little better than a guess. Especially with rain. At this point, I pretty much always bring a rain jacket. Temperatures can also be highly subjective to where exactly you are on the mountain. If it drops overnight to 32 degrees versus the expected 39 degrees, I do feel that's significant enough to, well, feel. Besides also dealing with stuff freezing. Anyways, would love more tips on how to research. Thanks for all your info over the years.
Save the following for a canoe trip; saw , cast iron pan , and camp chair. Garage Grown Gear is a great place to get started if you have the money.
A Frisbee is a multi use item: Plate, rain hat, bear deterrent etc. 😅
Whilst I don't think I'll ever be "ultralight", I have got my base weight down from about 25 pounds on my first trip, to about 13-14 pounds currently. Videos like this are very useful for all backpackers, even if they don't want to go as far as being "ultralight". I appreciate all of your excellent videos over the years.
Maybe not that ring shaped one for half of those uses!
@csn583 😂 Yeah, I meant the disc shaped ones. The ring style ones are ultralight though!
I am intrigued by using a quilt versus a bag with full zip that will open to a quilt. With my bag 90 per cent of the time it is a quilt but I can zip up if cold, which I thought would be more efficient for heat retention (and way easier to deploy in the middle of the night) than the way quilts attach to a pad. When that quilt is attached to a pad, that is exactly what I am avoiding, having to wriggle in and out of a sausage skin. Maybe I should give a quilt with attachment straps a go and really find out which is better for me.
I have never before used the attachment points, but yeah that would definitely help with the potential for drafts! Instead I get a quilt which is slightly larger. So instead of a regular size I get a wide. It's cozier, and I can better prevent drafts this way. Both the straps and slightly larger would be great to retain the warmth!
Friendly reminder that hiking is supposed to be fun. If cold soaking makes you want to kys just bring the damn stove. Going ultralight is cool but you're still a "real" hiker if you don't want or can't afford to be. I have had many a nice night drinking hot apple cider sunset while watching the sunset on the shores of Lake Superior before curling up in my pre-owned REI mummy bag inside my "cheap" nylon Durston.That said. Loved the tips! Making it anywhere with a 70lb pack is honestly kind of a wonky achievement. I don't think I could've made it to the car. 😅
hey thanks for the video Jupiter ! I'll take the oportunity to ask here, but does anyone comes from europe ? I'm from Switzerland and I can't realy find a nice website like garage grown gear nearby with ultralight focused gear. thanks !
One of the heavy items in my pack is my first aid kit. I've never used it, but it gives me comfort (partly because I take my kids with me). Any thoughts on this?
How heavy? It is a good responsible thing to have a complete first aid kit. Not only for surviving, but also to be more comfortable in case of injury and being able to continue. I used both my first aid and repair kit (on bike tours) more often to help others than to help myself😅
Tent + backpack + inflatable sleeping pad + sleeping bag = the big 4.
Small budget (around 380 euros)
- backpack : Naturehike UL
- tent : Naturehike cloud up 2
- down sleeping bag (a no-name one on Ali)
- inflatable sleeping pad (MT500 decathlon)
1,1kg + 1,8kg + 1,2kg + 0,7kg... already 4,8kg with the best values (weight/price) items. And you have nothing else than the "big 4".
It isn't easy to stay below 4,5kg just with these 4 items. Only if you put big $/€/£ on them, you can save hundreds of grams here and there. (NB : some people can sleep on foam pad - save money and limit weight - but few of us are part of them)
Really appreciated that these tips were universal and not gender based. A lot of ultralight content I have seen is made by men geared towards men so thanks for being inclusive :)
Hi Juniper, Can you do a series where you take out absolute beginner views on ultralight trips. There isn't anything like that on youtube. Great niche. Thanks
I helped my friend with this perspective. Minimum the extra items you pack, maximize the space for good food!
Good job
This is a reflective presentation to camera that can be watched several times 😃
Thanks for the excellent videos! You’ve been super helpful and confidence inspiring over the years.
You ever check out Timmermade? I just got a 20 degree false bottom bag (Serpentes) @ 16oz and a rain jacket @ 3.2oz. Killer UL.
Yeah timmermade makes some really cool stuff!! Definitely the SUL paradise of clothing
Giving likes as always. Keep the great content coming! What is that hoodie you are wearing in the video?
It is a melanzana high loft fleece!
@@JupiterHikes Looks good. I have a similar ultra warm high loft Senchi one.
Xmid babyyy!
I shaved my back and boom ...ultralight.
I can't for the life of me get below 15 lbs, but that's a comfortable 15 including 2 pillows and a cover sheet for my sleeping pad. I have enough trouble getting to sleep at home, so I'm taking any advantage on the trail.
Does 10 lb base weight include food and water?
No
Following up the chair and tent video with this one is gonna give r/ultralightjerk whiplash
Wait until they see the next one :)
@@JupiterHikes I'm here for it lol
do you have a vid on setting up a tarp that goes into stuff like hey the wind is blowing this way, it is or isn't raining, anticipating if the direction of rain or wind will change, etc.? That seems like the hardest thing to think when I start to consider tarp-ing
What's the big floppy, wide-brimmed hat I see you wearing in the desert in this video?
Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat! It's great
What are these nice breathable collared shirts you’re wearing?
Good video but two things I would never do is cold soaking and leaving my pillow at home 😅
Bear canisters are very heavy
No frisbee, my dog frisbee is my no spill plate with the edge curled up.
In the 1970s, we were lucky to get a pack under 40lbs.
The way my wife goes ultra-light is by having me carry the pack
😂😂😂
I guess I COULD leave all 54lbs of Oatmeal at home...but THAT AIN'T gonna happen! :)
You have obviously never hiked in Iceland 😂
There is no way you can plan for the weather and you need ALL your clothes 😅
Z Packs
It looks like you're wearing pajamas. It's pretty douchey.
Have you conferred for your age and height you might be 20 lbs overweight? Not a criticism in any way. Secondly people who use quilts are in danger of being unsafe in cold rain and wind. They offer no benefit
At 81 I try to keep my backing weight low but not "gram weenie low". I like the comfort of a good pack on the trail and the comfort of a good sleeping bag and mattress.
EX. TENT-> Tarptent NOTCH LI Dyneema solo tent, SLEEP SYSTEM-> BAG - Western Mountaineering Megalite overstuffed to 20 F. AIR MATTRESS - REI Flash insulated 3 season R 3.2 PACK-> Osprey EXOS 58
COOKSET-> Trail Designs Sidewinder Caldera Cone with matching 3 cup anodized aluminum pot and ESBIT tablet fuel W/ custom tab holder.
But yeah, "Small items matter"! "Ounces make pounds." HOWSOMEVER... I demand a pack with a frame AND a good hip belt. And I want my hiking poles with straps B/C, as a former XC ski patroller snd racer I know how to properly use the straps to keep my workload down. But NO titanium pots/cups please.
My last 'longer" backpack was when I was 74 and did the Grand Canyon, North Rim to South Rim in 4 interesting, moderately paced days.