I am a gear nerd, but maybe not as nerdy as those guys (like Mittencamper on reddit.com/r/Ultralight/ 😊 ) and I have to say that this is one of the best, if not *the* best, three season hiking gear review that I have seen! And the flow and editing are superb. Props to you, my friend, and thank you!!
Dan Stenziano - I have to admit that, I too, have looked at the KS website, so a video on that would be helpful. I would particularly like your take on the external frame strut option, as I am narrow shouldered, and used to framed packs that transfer weight to the hipbelt.... Thanks!
@@johnwilson6954 currently working on a review of the KS pack. I don't have the external frame stays, but I have heard from another reviewer on youtube as well as someone I met on the trail that they work quite well. I'd guess they would increase the carrying comfort from 20lb to 25, maybe 30.
@@DanStenziano - Thanks for the reply, Dan. That sounds about right, as my pack generally fluctuates between 17-26 pounds with food and water for late spring to early fall. But just as a preference, I like to carry the weight on my hips if possible. I have liked and subscribed, and will be checking out the rest of your videos next. I can't believe your channel hasn't shown up on my "recommended" feed before today!
Agreed, all other gear list videos I've seen ramble for way to long. I've been looking for someone with experience and gives their genuine honest opinion/advice. Props
I've mentioned a couple times now how I keep coming back to your videos at different points in my backpacking journey. Having dialed down my PCT gear it's amusing how close my list is to yours.
I have just come across this PCT gear vid after reading your post-CDT gear list. I have looked at hundreds of gear lists and reviews over the years, and have to say that yours is the most balanced, informative and honest that I have seen. Especially useful to see/hear your comments at the end of each trail too. Very easy to listen to as well. Well done.
I swear by tenacious tape. It is the only thing that I have found to be a quick, cheap and effective way to patch holes in my hammock. I have also used it to patch ribs in down equipment and a big rips in a pair of my ski pants. I even used to temporarily fix a leak I had in a pillow. I, however, don't recommend the clear tape for repairs that will see a lot of use. All of the colored tapes are like ripstop nylon with sticky backing whereas the clear is more of a thick rubber. After two years of use on my ski pants, it cracked and needs to be replaced. But three years of use on my hammock of the ripstop kind and still going strong.
@@DanStenziano I use 1-inch wide or regular gorilla tape for certain heavy-duty repairs like one time my trekking pole broke in half. I usually carry a little bit of duck tape for blisters and custom bandages but I'm gonna start using leukotape for that. I definitely carry a wide variety of tapes with me on backpack trips because I tend to find I use a lot of tape for different applications while backpacking I ripped a hole in one of my shoes once and used gorilla tape to patch it.
I have been ul for over ten years and watched nearly every gear list there is. This is by far the most extensive, well thought out list I have seen. Includes Everything And Is Designed APPROPRIATLY for where it is going. You are so right about people breezing over what they wear, men in general enjoy dropping base weight as a challenge against one another, which is natural to us. The reality is if you compare yourself to other people, you will never be happy, and daily clothing choice is based on that, as were most people spend thousands on the big three and skimp on clothing that will keep them happier as it rubs against their skin.
Gear video! yeesssss! Would like to see a video review of the KS. I saw one in red river gorge in KY this past year and it was like spotting a unicorn in the wild. Chased the guy down to say hi
Lol I know I only saw one other person with a KS all summer. I think I'll do a review on it and go over some of the ordering options because I've heard from multiple people that they considered one but the website scared them off.
Great video. I would highly recommend the nitecore nu25 headlamp. It has a battery pack inside of it. Mine weighs I think 1.18 Oz with a shock cord headband. Highly recommended. You can get one on Amazon for like 37 box totally worth it
If you ran into one of those survivalist guys you could have asked to borrow some Flex-Seal for your tent. They don’t leave home without at least a pint of it. It’s hard to find those guys though, they’re always wearing camo and are seldom seen unless they are shooting or sawing something.
Dan Stenziano : I didn’t even think of that. I was watching a winter camping video a few days ago and a guy carried a steak and a log (for fire - he was worried about not being able to find wood in the forest)! I thought that it was silly, but since they are both consumables they didn’t even count toward the weight of his pack...That’s GENIUS!!!🤯
Good for you for getting your weight down that low. I'll never be able to get in that range haha. I hiked the CDT in 2018 with a base weight of about 21lbs. But I also had 5lbs of camera gear to film my hike 😁
Ken Bothman oh cool! I have never seen those. Now I don’t know whether to go with one of those and keep my current light or just get a usb rechargeable light. I’ll have to read up a little more. Thanks for watching!
It's a mistake to take the straps off your trek poles; used correctly, they will support you and thus transfer weight from yourself and your pack onto your poles.
Halibut 1 it’s not a mistake. I don’t need the straps and it saves weight. Plus I can quickly put my poles under my arm to grab water or my camera etc.
DrugTalk 101 this is correct. Enlightened equipment have told me that their ratings are lower limit. But the quilt is only one component of a sleep system
Nice pack break-down... and thanks for the cheap ripstop pants recommendation! I hadn't heard of those before but love the idea. Picking up a pair at the local ballet school (!) asap.
@@DanStenziano Smile...totally true. There's one around the corner from work 😎 I bet they'll be pleasantly surprised to see a 50 year old guy picking up XL ballet pants!
Chris Hoover you can get these dance pants made by body wrappers which work well as wind pants. 3oz, cheap. www.amazon.com/Body-Wrappers-Ripstop-Pants-701/dp/B004BFGEA0 I personally would swap them for a pair of light rain pants for potentially colder sections like the Sierras (or add a rain kilt)
Nice review but I feel a lot of the lightweight gear is in the upper price range...tent at 400 + dollars, pad at 170 dollars and poles at over 100 dollars.
True, but you can work your way down in weight over time. Every year I replace about one heavier item with a lighter item, because that’s what I can afford. That said, the biggest weight savings come from removing things you just don’t need in the first place.
For those of you looking for ultralight gear, I saw a guy who just used a fingertip toothbrush like they make for babies. He also used a stove that didn't need fuel. His Base Weight was in the 5 lb range. I don't think that Dan mentioned his cooking gear anywhere here in this video.
@@DanStenziano I thought that might be why. I commented because I wasn't sure if you had forgotten to mention it, or if you just didn't use any=as you've mentioned now. Beautiful video, by the way. Not many people show much of Oregon on their PCT videos. I'm pretty familiar with a lot of the area around the PCT in several areas, but I'm not sure if the best spots are within hiking distance s a side trip from the trail or not. Hopefully I can do the Oregon section NOBO in another year or so.
k33elly thanks! I agree Oregon doesn’t get enough love from PCT hikers. I really enjoyed it... generally chill, beautiful lakes and forests, a few epic volcanoes.
Great video. I did 500 miles of the PCT in 2016. Advice from someone who has finished a hike is far more valuable than videos of what people think they need before their hike. He went stoveless, which I also did, but next time I would use a very light weight stove. I did not have a charging battery for phone but I did carry a solar charger by Anker. The Sierras are far colder than the desert, and the gear needs differ. This is one of the best done videos of this type. The PDF file he links to is very good and supports his 9 lb base weight. I don't think getting to an exact minimum weight is valid. There are tradeoffs. But it is also my experience that one needs fewer items than one expects.
Chad Brown thanks! I agree there can be diminishing returns lowering your baseweight beyond a certain point. Gotta find balance between weight, function, durability, etc
It is tiny, almost to the point of being impractical lol. I've had it forever so I don't remember where I got it, but this one looks more or less the same: amzn.to/3gmaOar
Tyler Tacy haha well I am somewhat limited in what I can do with one pancake lens and a 2oz tripod. I would not hesitate to bring heavier camera equipment on hikes where mileage isn’t a priority
@@DanStenziano for sure if I ever get to do long distance hikes ill have to re think it. It was my first real backpacking trip and I had to get some Milky way pictures
Tyler Tacy understandable! This past fall I used a Slik travel tripod and a Samyang 12mm f2 on my Sony a5100 to get some pretty decent Milky Way shots and the total weight of that set up was a little over 3lb. Not Natgeo quality but definitely a nice happy medium between image quality and pack weight!
I had to hike with thin gurl leggings since we had the hottest summer in a 100 years in sweden. So, I had no need for sunscreen really. Also they kept ticks away.
I'd say you're likely to be fine anywhere in North America with just the Sawyer. I have used both before as a precaution for some nasty water in New Mexico and Arizona but I've also had nasty water with just sawyer and even just drops and I haven't gotten sick. My understanding is that either will work on its own.
Very good video. How much did back bag weights? How much the tent weights? Check out the firefly head lamp, it’s 1 ounce including two coin size batteries. It is only 1 ounce including two batteries. It gives you 36 hours of use continuously in high mode had 40 lumens. You can get it from Amazon. He’s $35 when I bought it. God bless you.
went on our first hiking of the year and i tried out your suggestion about the thin nylon dress socks and it worked very well, but the shoes i wore didn't work out as much as i thought. do you still go with the thin nylon dress socks on your hiking ?
retrod discodude yep! I’ve been using them for the past 3 months on the CDT. Gold Toe brand seems to be the best I’ve found, most durable. What was the problem with your shoes?
@@DanStenziano well it was my mistake to wear just normal running shoes on this hike , just regular nike shoes which on my next hike i'll probably look into finding some good hiking shoes, i prefer shoes over boots.....and i went out and bought some socks, 2 blue and 2 black thin dress socks so i'm set on that , i watched your video which helped alot on that sock part ..i've watched your video's , so far so good man, i'm in Alberta Canada so we went to Kananaskis country
retrod discodude I love Kananaskis! Can’t wait to go back there some day. You could try Altras, those are my favorite hiking shoes. Either the Superiors or the Lone Peaks
@@DanStenziano oh sweet man so you've been to Kananaskis , it is awesome there. i think i'm going to check out those Lone Peak shoes you mention. anything is better than my every day walking shoes i wore lol, check them out, they got soaked, felt like i was wearing a wooden sho lol facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=477074626450555&set=a.477074589783892&type=3&theater
Israel Sarabia no, my strategy for river crossings is to use very thin socks and breathable shoes so that I can wear them while crossing and they’ll dry relatively quickly afterward, at least out west in the summer. This has the added benefit of giving me more stability when crossing. Then I make sure to always have a dry pair of socks to put on at night in case I show up to camp with wet feet. If I want to walk around camp I’ll just loosen my shoes but usually I hop right in my bag.
Ahmad Haerul Azhury well there are pros and cons to quilts. Compared to mummy bags of similar ratings, they are lighter and usable over a wider temperature range because you can open them up. Quilts save weight by not having insulation on the bottom which in mummy bags will be compressed and less effective. Quilts are also less restrictive feeling than mummies. Of course the downside is that they can be drafty, making them less effective in very cold temps, say under 20*f. At that point a mummy would probably perform better.
Thanks! I used Half mile and Guthook. Most people just use Guthook but it’s still good to have paper too. You could use a bounce box for maps or have someone else mail them to you every few resupplies.
I have used a couple different brands and don't notice much difference. I believed I've used Gold Toe as well as George. I get them at Walmart or Target. These are the specific ones that Phil Werner from Section Hiker recommends and I would imagine they will work just about the same as what I've used: amzn.to/2Ca7FoE
Great ass video. Good stuff, learned some new stuff. And I liked your Lighterpack list. You have what you need and have not been branded. Seems like you have a great kit and all the stuff well researched and not the most expensive. Yes sir buddy, I am subscribing .
Good video. I agree on a lot of stuff, though I carry a little heavier ( read: I cook 😏). I do have to disagree with one thing; hiking pole straps are absolutely needed. If you’re climbing without straps, you’re wasting energy. I’ve thought a lot about poles, and used them for around thirty years now. I’m pretty convinced that most people use them incorrectly, and use them too much. Edit: I see someone else mentioned this, but I’ll leave my comment up. Edit again: Forgot to add, kudos for carrying a compass!! Too many people leave them out.
Victor I understand that the straps are more energy efficient. But they’re not for everyone. I use my poles lightly and do not need the straps. I prefer to be able to easily stow them so I can grab water, camera, snacks etc. I find straps get in the way and haven’t had any trouble climbing. But to each their own. If someone feels like they benefit from straps they should not cut them off.
Dyneema Dreama sun gloves no, I regularly apply sunscreen if I’m in an exposed area. I’ve considered them though. I did use gaiters on my thruhike in ‘17 but forgot to mention them here because I haven’t used since. I used the Altra ones and felt like they were too loose around my ankles and did a poor job of blocking debris
Dyneema Dreama I don’t use TP. I will sometimes use natural materials but usually I just do the “backcountry bidet” followed by hand wash and sanitizer. Keeps things cleaner and is more lnt. As for the trowel, I’ve never felt like I couldn’t get a good 6x6 hole with a trowel shaped rock or just my shoe when the dirt is soft
This video is just the base stuff that I’d have for most of the trail. If going nobo, I’d have some extra stuff in the Sierra (bear can, possibly spikes and axe depending on conditions, and probably a fleece top and tights). Extra underwear can be nice, but now I usually just use running shorts with a liner.
@@DanStenziano Thanks Dan...so I guess you are sending the extra mountain gear to where you would be needing them? Or do you have another method of picking them up?
Rachel Sanders haha it started as a way to save money but I actually ended up liking them. They’re not as comfy as hiking or running socks but they get the job done
@@DanStenziano If it works for you, that's what matters. Just goes to show that you can hike without having to get the most expensive and "perfect" items.
Happy Camper That one only has 500 miles on it. I threw away the one I used in 2017 because my roommates dog literally pooped in it lol... anyway it will look pretty dirty after a whole trail.
Jd Clifford a good point re not wide enough in the midfoot, but for me with a pretty wide foot that was an issue only for the lone peak 3.0 and 3.5. I find the superior 3.0 and 3.5, lone peak 4.0, and Timps are acceptably wide in the midfoot, but footwear is personal of course.
@@DanStenziano Edited my previous comment to put not "tight" in forefoot instead of not "wide," though I can tell you recognized the error. I ordered the Lone Peak 4.0 from Amazon and had to return them. I got the Brooks Cascadia wides and those will do (no blisters), but they are still a little tighter than I'd like. If the forefoot was similar to Altra, they would be perfect. Though I can't comfortably wear double-wide for all brands, I often buy double-wide Nikes for work. So, finding good shoes is always a pain. Merrell mid-ventilators wides are perfect for me, but still looking for that perfect trail runner.
Jd Clifford I’ve also had success with Brooks in the past, and yes if only the toe box was a bit wider. Honestly I’m surprised Altra doesn’t offer a wide option because then they wouldn’t have to worry about pleasing their fans vs having mainstream appeal. You could try the Timps, they felt the widest of any Altra I’ve tried.
Jd Clifford I found that the brooks were a bit too tight for me and then I went to the lone peak 3.5s and love them. Recently I ordered another pair of them for like half off since the 4.0 are released. Still using my old pair because they got some more miles on them but the tread is almost completely gone on them. I wish the tread didn’t wear down so fast. Everywhere else is holding decently. Some fraying and scuffs but no holes or rips anywhere. Not sure the amount of miles I have on them but it’s a decent amount. When I did the JMT I had brooks 11 and they were almost new when I started and when I finished they were pretty worn out. Much more than I was expecting. I feel like the lone peak 3.5s have held up better
DrugTalk 101 a dcf tent is expensive if you use it a few times a year, but on a 120 day thruhike it’s less than $5 a night. Anyway there are plenty of ultralight and comfortable options for much less
There are plenty of budget tents that are almost as light as DCF. I.e. six moons designs , lighthearted gear etc Or tarp and net bivy like I use I have less than 140$ into. Weighs 17 ounces lot of coverage at 7x9 and versatile.
awsome man .. but jeez so expensive and stupid.. unless your trying to bang out 30 mile days no point ... also i know this is 2 years old but seems like going UL and telling people UL is pretty much only way to have a good mile day or good hike without dying IS NOT TRUE.. UL is so overrated ya u dont want 20lb base weight but anything around 15 and under is fucking fine jesus christ
I am a gear nerd, but maybe not as nerdy as those guys (like Mittencamper on reddit.com/r/Ultralight/ 😊 ) and I have to say that this is one of the best, if not *the* best, three season hiking gear review that I have seen! And the flow and editing are superb. Props to you, my friend, and thank you!!
Dan Stenziano - I have to admit that, I too, have looked at the KS website, so a video on that would be helpful. I would particularly like your take on the external frame strut option, as I am narrow shouldered, and used to framed packs that transfer weight to the hipbelt.... Thanks!
John Wilson wow, thanks! I’m glad you liked it 😀
@@johnwilson6954 currently working on a review of the KS pack. I don't have the external frame stays, but I have heard from another reviewer on youtube as well as someone I met on the trail that they work quite well. I'd guess they would increase the carrying comfort from 20lb to 25, maybe 30.
@@DanStenziano - Thanks for the reply, Dan. That sounds about right, as my pack generally fluctuates between 17-26 pounds with food and water for late spring to early fall. But just as a preference, I like to carry the weight on my hips if possible. I have liked and subscribed, and will be checking out the rest of your videos next. I can't believe your channel hasn't shown up on my "recommended" feed before today!
Agreed, all other gear list videos I've seen ramble for way to long. I've been looking for someone with experience and gives their genuine honest opinion/advice. Props
I love the straps on my trekking poles. You could put lots of force on them poles with virtually no grabbing at all
I've mentioned a couple times now how I keep coming back to your videos at different points in my backpacking journey. Having dialed down my PCT gear it's amusing how close my list is to yours.
I have just come across this PCT gear vid after reading your post-CDT gear list.
I have looked at hundreds of gear lists and reviews over the years, and have to say that yours is the most balanced, informative and honest that I have seen. Especially useful to see/hear your comments at the end of each trail too. Very easy to listen to as well. Well done.
Thanks! Very glad you found it helpful.
I swear by tenacious tape. It is the only thing that I have found to be a quick, cheap and effective way to patch holes in my hammock. I have also used it to patch ribs in down equipment and a big rips in a pair of my ski pants. I even used to temporarily fix a leak I had in a pillow. I, however, don't recommend the clear tape for repairs that will see a lot of use. All of the colored tapes are like ripstop nylon with sticky backing whereas the clear is more of a thick rubber. After two years of use on my ski pants, it cracked and needs to be replaced. But three years of use on my hammock of the ripstop kind and still going strong.
Lone Wolf Outdoors 👍 thank you for chiming in, and for the tip on clear vs colored. Duct tape is definitely not a great solution.
@@DanStenziano I use 1-inch wide or regular gorilla tape for certain heavy-duty repairs like one time my trekking pole broke in half. I usually carry a little bit of duck tape for blisters and custom bandages but I'm gonna start using leukotape for that. I definitely carry a wide variety of tapes with me on backpack trips because I tend to find I use a lot of tape for different applications while backpacking I ripped a hole in one of my shoes once and used gorilla tape to patch it.
Yes! Tenacious tape is God's work. Best thing ever
I patched two pinhole leaks in my prorest 4 or 5 years ago and it's still holding. I use that pad as my seat for kayaking. Its seen A LOT of use.
All of my down coats have some sort of tenacious tape on them lol. Works great.
Is this the guy from Narcos?
yes
Prince Oberyn Martell!!!
@@DanStenziano i knew id' seen you somewhere!
I have been ul for over ten years and watched nearly every gear list there is. This is by far the most extensive, well thought out list I have seen. Includes Everything And Is Designed APPROPRIATLY for where it is going. You are so right about people breezing over what they wear, men in general enjoy dropping base weight as a challenge against one another, which is natural to us. The reality is if you compare yourself to other people, you will never be happy, and daily clothing choice is based on that, as were most people spend thousands on the big three and skimp on clothing that will keep them happier as it rubs against their skin.
Gear video! yeesssss! Would like to see a video review of the KS. I saw one in red river gorge in KY this past year and it was like spotting a unicorn in the wild. Chased the guy down to say hi
Lol I know I only saw one other person with a KS all summer. I think I'll do a review on it and go over some of the ordering options because I've heard from multiple people that they considered one but the website scared them off.
@@DanStenziano Even I am intimidated by that site and I think about gear all the time lol
+1 on the unicorn sighting lol. Saw Dan this summer in NorCal and had to stop and chat about his KS.
Great video. I would highly recommend the nitecore nu25 headlamp. It has a battery pack inside of it. Mine weighs I think 1.18 Oz with a shock cord headband. Highly recommended. You can get one on Amazon for like 37 box totally worth it
I like the silicone release paper for leuko tape. That stuff is really hard to peel off it’s roll!
If you ran into one of those survivalist guys you could have asked to borrow some Flex-Seal for your tent. They don’t leave home without at least a pint of it.
It’s hard to find those guys though, they’re always wearing camo and are seldom seen unless they are shooting or sawing something.
Nathan Sharp I always carry a pint or two but it’s a consumable so I don’t have to show it in this video
Dan Stenziano : I didn’t even think of that. I was watching a winter camping video a few days ago and a guy carried a steak and a log (for fire - he was worried about not being able to find wood in the forest)! I thought that it was silly, but since they are both consumables they didn’t even count toward the weight of his pack...That’s GENIUS!!!🤯
Nathan Sharp 😂
Good for you for getting your weight down that low. I'll never be able to get in that range haha. I hiked the CDT in 2018 with a base weight of about 21lbs. But I also had 5lbs of camera gear to film my hike 😁
Seeking Lost haha now that’s dedication for a thruhike!
the batteries with the micro usb port built in are really cool, also lighter (7g vrs 12g for a AAA) I've enjoyed your videos well and thanks!
Ken Bothman oh cool! I have never seen those. Now I don’t know whether to go with one of those and keep my current light or just get a usb rechargeable light. I’ll have to read up a little more. Thanks for watching!
Great video, thanks for sharing your pack info.. You can also back flush your filter with the smart water bottle sip cap.
flashman V thanks, that’s a good tip. I’ll have to find one and try it vs the adaptor
It's a mistake to take the straps off your trek poles; used correctly, they will support you and thus transfer weight from yourself and your pack onto your poles.
Halibut 1 it’s not a mistake. I don’t need the straps and it saves weight. Plus I can quickly put my poles under my arm to grab water or my camera etc.
Spitch Grizwald welcome to team no straps
So can your hands.
Temp ratings listed are the very bottom (the serviceability temp) saying you’ll survive at this temp but the comfort temp is not usually listed
DrugTalk 101 this is correct. Enlightened equipment have told me that their ratings are lower limit. But the quilt is only one component of a sleep system
Nice pack break-down... and thanks for the cheap ripstop pants recommendation! I hadn't heard of those before but love the idea. Picking up a pair at the local ballet school (!) asap.
Paul Schortemeyer Lol I hope you’re not joking about the ballet school
@@DanStenziano Smile...totally true. There's one around the corner from work 😎 I bet they'll be pleasantly surprised to see a 50 year old guy picking up XL ballet pants!
Paul Schortemeyer 😂
I was distracted when you talked about the pants. Can you retroactively fill me in
Chris Hoover you can get these dance pants made by body wrappers which work well as wind pants. 3oz, cheap.
www.amazon.com/Body-Wrappers-Ripstop-Pants-701/dp/B004BFGEA0
I personally would swap them for a pair of light rain pants for potentially colder sections like the Sierras (or add a rain kilt)
yea i got a question, whats the name of your mustache? i'd like to follow it on instagram
TheOurGlass also Dan
Excellent...I MEAN EXCELLENT VID, and funny comments. Me gusta.
I liked the way you gave the gear list. Good explanations on your choices. I subed ✌
You exude the hiker vibe. I think that’s so cool! Lol awesome video! I got a lot of great ideas! Thanks!
Nice review but I feel a lot of the lightweight gear is in the upper price range...tent at 400 + dollars, pad at 170 dollars and poles at over 100 dollars.
True, but you can work your way down in weight over time. Every year I replace about one heavier item with a lighter item, because that’s what I can afford. That said, the biggest weight savings come from removing things you just don’t need in the first place.
Thanks for the great review. I'm trying to get toward ultra light. I'm down to 15 pounds. I appeciate you sharing.
Excellent information, thanks for taking the time 🤗
Deb Campos - Nature Lover no problem 🙂 hope it was helpful
For those of you looking for ultralight gear, I saw a guy who just used a fingertip toothbrush like they make for babies. He also used a stove that didn't need fuel. His Base Weight was in the 5 lb range. I don't think that Dan mentioned his cooking gear anywhere here in this video.
k33elly that would be because I don’t carry cooking gear 🙃
@@DanStenziano I thought that might be why. I commented because I wasn't sure if you had forgotten to mention it, or if you just didn't use any=as you've mentioned now. Beautiful video, by the way. Not many people show much of Oregon on their PCT videos. I'm pretty familiar with a lot of the area around the PCT in several areas, but I'm not sure if the best spots are within hiking distance s a side trip from the trail or not. Hopefully I can do the Oregon section NOBO in another year or so.
k33elly thanks! I agree Oregon doesn’t get enough love from PCT hikers. I really enjoyed it... generally chill, beautiful lakes and forests, a few epic volcanoes.
Awesome video and thank you. By the way dude you resemble a lot of the famous Agent Javier Peña actor - Pedro Pascal. Keep up the good work.
Asanka Meththa lol you’re actually the second person to tell me that this week so I’m starting to believe it!
You know that the gate to Hollywood just opened...lol
Asanka Meththa 😂
Your voice is so relaxing. Good video!
Great video. I did 500 miles of the PCT in 2016. Advice from someone who has finished a hike is far more valuable than videos of what people think they need before their hike. He went stoveless, which I also did, but next time I would use a very light weight stove. I did not have a charging battery for phone but I did carry a solar charger by Anker. The Sierras are far colder than the desert, and the gear needs differ. This is one of the best done videos of this type. The PDF file he links to is very good and supports his 9 lb base weight. I don't think getting to an exact minimum weight is valid. There are tradeoffs. But it is also my experience that one needs fewer items than one expects.
Chad Brown thanks! I agree there can be diminishing returns lowering your baseweight beyond a certain point. Gotta find balance between weight, function, durability, etc
@3:30... 23oz/stake??? times 8 equals 11.5 pounds just for tent stakes? That is commitment.
John Thomson lol POINT 3 ounces per stake
@@DanStenziano Got it. I was thinking at that weight, you wouldn't even need to push then into the ground!
Solid gear list. Curious about that camera tripod -- that thing's TINY! Do you recall where you got it?
It is tiny, almost to the point of being impractical lol. I've had it forever so I don't remember where I got it, but this one looks more or less the same: amzn.to/3gmaOar
Very thorough. Well done and thank you.
Thanks for the very thorough video.
damn! my camera gear was as much as your base weight! for my Yosemite trip
Tyler Tacy haha well I am somewhat limited in what I can do with one pancake lens and a 2oz tripod. I would not hesitate to bring heavier camera equipment on hikes where mileage isn’t a priority
@@DanStenziano for sure if I ever get to do long distance hikes ill have to re think it. It was my first real backpacking trip and I had to get some Milky way pictures
Tyler Tacy understandable! This past fall I used a Slik travel tripod and a Samyang 12mm f2 on my Sony a5100 to get some pretty decent Milky Way shots and the total weight of that set up was a little over 3lb. Not Natgeo quality but definitely a nice happy medium between image quality and pack weight!
@@DanStenziano 3lbs seems nice😂 that was the weight of my tripod
Sun sun hats are godly. I did not need any sun screen or my buff, so I sent those home.
Sun hats*
ChuckNoctis I still keep the sunscreen for my legs and hands but generally don’t need it for my face with this hat
I had to hike with thin gurl leggings since we had the hottest summer in a 100 years in sweden. So, I had no need for sunscreen really. Also they kept ticks away.
Love the no-nonsense presentation of your gear, new subcriber here :D keep it up
Is there an oberyn Martell comment yet?
nice gear video! yes, helpful 👍🏼 thanks
Is there anywhere you would use the Sawyer squeeze filter and some sort of purifier like aquatabs? Or is just the filter really necessary...? Thx!
I'd say you're likely to be fine anywhere in North America with just the Sawyer. I have used both before as a precaution for some nasty water in New Mexico and Arizona but I've also had nasty water with just sawyer and even just drops and I haven't gotten sick. My understanding is that either will work on its own.
He uses soap for toothpaste. What a guy 👏
Dr. Bronners is awesome
Very good video. How much did back bag weights? How much the tent weights? Check out the firefly head lamp, it’s 1 ounce including two coin size batteries. It is only 1 ounce including two batteries. It gives you 36 hours of use continuously in high mode had 40 lumens. You can get it from Amazon. He’s $35 when I bought it. God bless you.
TainoXtreme the pack weighs 13.4oz empty and the tent weighs 15oz. I’ll have to check out that light! Thanks for watching 🙂
The Body Wrappers Dance Warm-up Pants - do they come in men’s sizes?
Daniel Yacykewych they are unisex. I’m 5’8” 140lb and small fits me
went on our first hiking of the year and i tried out your suggestion about the thin nylon dress socks and it worked very well, but the shoes i wore didn't work out as much as i thought. do you still go with the thin nylon dress socks on your hiking ?
retrod discodude yep! I’ve been using them for the past 3 months on the CDT. Gold Toe brand seems to be the best I’ve found, most durable. What was the problem with your shoes?
@@DanStenziano well it was my mistake to wear just normal running shoes on this hike , just regular nike shoes which on my next hike i'll probably look into finding some good hiking shoes, i prefer shoes over boots.....and i went out and bought some socks, 2 blue and 2 black thin dress socks so i'm set on that , i watched your video which helped alot on that sock part ..i've watched your video's , so far so good man, i'm in Alberta Canada so we went to Kananaskis country
retrod discodude I love Kananaskis! Can’t wait to go back there some day. You could try Altras, those are my favorite hiking shoes. Either the Superiors or the Lone Peaks
@@DanStenziano oh sweet man so you've been to Kananaskis , it is awesome there. i think i'm going to check out those Lone Peak shoes you mention. anything is better than my every day walking shoes i wore lol,
check them out, they got soaked, felt like i was wearing a wooden sho lol facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=477074626450555&set=a.477074589783892&type=3&theater
ever think of reviewing a Walmart pack, i hear they're top shelf
where can i get a walmart pack
thank you for sharing!
Do you carry sandals for camp or river crossings?
Israel Sarabia no, my strategy for river crossings is to use very thin socks and breathable shoes so that I can wear them while crossing and they’ll dry relatively quickly afterward, at least out west in the summer. This has the added benefit of giving me more stability when crossing. Then I make sure to always have a dry pair of socks to put on at night in case I show up to camp with wet feet. If I want to walk around camp I’ll just loosen my shoes but usually I hop right in my bag.
Great content and pack list, thanks.
why do you prefer quilts compared to sleeping bags?
Ahmad Haerul Azhury well there are pros and cons to quilts. Compared to mummy bags of similar ratings, they are lighter and usable over a wider temperature range because you can open them up. Quilts save weight by not having insulation on the bottom which in mummy bags will be compressed and less effective. Quilts are also less restrictive feeling than mummies. Of course the downside is that they can be drafty, making them less effective in very cold temps, say under 20*f. At that point a mummy would probably perform better.
Did he say his tent stakes were 23 ounces or .3 ounces a piece? 3:31
Aurtisan Miner .3 oz. I think this is the 4th or 5th time someone has commented this 😂 I would like to see these mythical 23 oz stakes
Dan Stenziano Solid gold stakes! I wasnt sure if you meant 23 grams or I was just hearing it wrong. Lol
Nice content! I am wondering what was your strategy for maps and which one did you used?
Thanks! I used Half mile and Guthook. Most people just use Guthook but it’s still good to have paper too. You could use a bounce box for maps or have someone else mail them to you every few resupplies.
Were the socks Gold Toe nylon, what is the model as i would like to order online.
I have used a couple different brands and don't notice much difference. I believed I've used Gold Toe as well as George. I get them at Walmart or Target. These are the specific ones that Phil Werner from Section Hiker recommends and I would imagine they will work just about the same as what I've used: amzn.to/2Ca7FoE
Great video!
Great ass video. Good stuff, learned some new stuff. And I liked your Lighterpack list. You have what you need and have not been branded. Seems like you have a great kit and all the stuff well researched and not the most expensive. Yes sir buddy, I am subscribing .
YERMO Adan thanks! I do think the tent is too pricey haha, but I suppose it’s not so bad to splurge one of your most important items.
How long did one pair of shoes last you?
ChuckNoctis 5-800 miles or 3-5 weeks
Good video. I agree on a lot of stuff, though I carry a little heavier ( read: I cook 😏). I do have to disagree with one thing; hiking pole straps are absolutely needed. If you’re climbing without straps, you’re wasting energy. I’ve thought a lot about poles, and used them for around thirty years now. I’m pretty convinced that most people use them incorrectly, and use them too much. Edit: I see someone else mentioned this, but I’ll leave my comment up. Edit again: Forgot to add, kudos for carrying a compass!! Too many people leave them out.
Victor I understand that the straps are more energy efficient. But they’re not for everyone. I use my poles lightly and do not need the straps. I prefer to be able to easily stow them so I can grab water, camera, snacks etc. I find straps get in the way and haven’t had any trouble climbing. But to each their own. If someone feels like they benefit from straps they should not cut them off.
Good video. Thanks.
what size is your opsack bag?
Jessica Lantos 12x20, holds about 5 days for me or more early in a hike
Do you wear sun gloves? gaiters?
Dyneema Dreama sun gloves no, I regularly apply sunscreen if I’m in an exposed area. I’ve considered them though.
I did use gaiters on my thruhike in ‘17 but forgot to mention them here because I haven’t used since. I used the Altra ones and felt like they were too loose around my ankles and did a poor job of blocking debris
@@DanStenziano thanks for the quick reply. What about TP and trowel? Didn't see those listed.
Dyneema Dreama I don’t use TP. I will sometimes use natural materials but usually I just do the “backcountry bidet” followed by hand wash and sanitizer. Keeps things cleaner and is more lnt.
As for the trowel, I’ve never felt like I couldn’t get a good 6x6 hole with a trowel shaped rock or just my shoe when the dirt is soft
@@DanStenziano not sure i cud wipe my ass with leaves. Luv baby wipes!
So you have no extra sleep gear right? And only one pair of underwear? If so that is serious business. What about spikes and ice axe for snow passes?
This video is just the base stuff that I’d have for most of the trail. If going nobo, I’d have some extra stuff in the Sierra (bear can, possibly spikes and axe depending on conditions, and probably a fleece top and tights). Extra underwear can be nice, but now I usually just use running shorts with a liner.
@@DanStenziano Thanks Dan...so I guess you are sending the extra mountain gear to where you would be needing them? Or do you have another method of picking them up?
@@jitatmaanand2782 yeah I would send that stuff to Kennedy Meadows south and get rid of it when it was okay to do so, probably around Tahoe.
@@DanStenziano Nice one Dan...,Love your style...free and easy with a meditative vibe...happy hiking
thx dan
Good vid
Wait, I'm in disbelief that he uses black dress socks.
Rachel Sanders haha it started as a way to save money but I actually ended up liking them. They’re not as comfy as hiking or running socks but they get the job done
@@DanStenziano If it works for you, that's what matters. Just goes to show that you can hike without having to get the most expensive and "perfect" items.
I can’t believe how white that hat still is. Does it wash out nicely?
Happy Camper That one only has 500 miles on it. I threw away the one I used in 2017 because my roommates dog literally pooped in it lol... anyway it will look pretty dirty after a whole trail.
Nice.
So what was that base weight again?
Erica Whalen 9lb in the pack and fanny pack. 12 including clothing and other worn items. See gear list in description for full breakdown
Great video. People with wide feet should also avoid Altra. It won't be tight in the forefoot, but midfoot will definitely be too tight of a fit.
Jd Clifford a good point re not wide enough in the midfoot, but for me with a pretty wide foot that was an issue only for the lone peak 3.0 and 3.5. I find the superior 3.0 and 3.5, lone peak 4.0, and Timps are acceptably wide in the midfoot, but footwear is personal of course.
@@DanStenziano Edited my previous comment to put not "tight" in forefoot instead of not "wide," though I can tell you recognized the error. I ordered the Lone Peak 4.0 from Amazon and had to return them. I got the Brooks Cascadia wides and those will do (no blisters), but they are still a little tighter than I'd like. If the forefoot was similar to Altra, they would be perfect. Though I can't comfortably wear double-wide for all brands, I often buy double-wide Nikes for work. So, finding good shoes is always a pain. Merrell mid-ventilators wides are perfect for me, but still looking for that perfect trail runner.
Jd Clifford I’ve also had success with Brooks in the past, and yes if only the toe box was a bit wider. Honestly I’m surprised Altra doesn’t offer a wide option because then they wouldn’t have to worry about pleasing their fans vs having mainstream appeal. You could try the Timps, they felt the widest of any Altra I’ve tried.
@@DanStenziano Thanks Dan, I'll definitely have to look into those
Jd Clifford I found that the brooks were a bit too tight for me and then I went to the lone peak 3.5s and love them. Recently I ordered another pair of them for like half off since the 4.0 are released. Still using my old pair because they got some more miles on them but the tread is almost completely gone on them. I wish the tread didn’t wear down so fast. Everywhere else is holding decently. Some fraying and scuffs but no holes or rips anywhere. Not sure the amount of miles I have on them but it’s a decent amount. When I did the JMT I had brooks 11 and they were almost new when I started and when I finished they were pretty worn out. Much more than I was expecting. I feel like the lone peak 3.5s have held up better
Those stakes weigh 23 ounces each gd
Remembered seeing but not understanding this comment after someone else just commented the same thing...
.3 (point 3) oz/stake, not 23 lol
Tents are so damn much for ultra light only the rich are comfortable, me 5yr old soccer to have an adventure...
DrugTalk 101 a dcf tent is expensive if you use it a few times a year, but on a 120 day thruhike it’s less than $5 a night. Anyway there are plenty of ultralight and comfortable options for much less
There are plenty of budget tents that are almost as light as DCF. I.e. six moons designs , lighthearted gear etc Or tarp and net bivy like I use I have less than 140$ into. Weighs 17 ounces lot of coverage at 7x9 and versatile.
Do you have a link to this gear list that can be read?
Christopher Zaleski yes! The gear list is the first link at the top of the description (lighterpack)
@@DanStenziano Thank you!
I wont say too much about this video. :-P
kessler003 Dan “I won’t say too much about this” stenziano
@@DanStenziano lol
awsome man .. but jeez so expensive and stupid.. unless your trying to bang out 30 mile days no point ... also i know this is 2 years old but seems like going UL and telling people UL is pretty much only way to have a good mile day or good hike without dying IS NOT TRUE.. UL is so overrated ya u dont want 20lb base weight but anything around 15 and under is fucking fine jesus christ
Lol yeah 15 and under is fine. And you can certainly go much cheaper. I mean this is just what I did. Hike your own hike as they say.