I think you packed great for your first trip! There are definitely a lot of things you can take out to save weight! My advice (only bc you asked for it): it’s good to bring too much food & snacks. That’s an important “waste of weight.” You have too many clothes for sure. Even if conditions were different, you could rinse, dry and rewear things. I think most of your extra weight is there. You also have a lot of towels and wipes and hankies and tissues. Pare that down. They add up! You can rinse and reuse. You didn’t need the emergency blanket. Even given the conditions, you have a sleeping bag and clothing, the blanket wasn’t necessary. You didn’t need the sitting pad. The medical kit can probably be halved. See what’s in there and for a short trip like this you can leave duplicate items behind. Also maybe the medications in your toiletry bag are dupes of things in the medical kit. You don’t need a lantern and a headlamp and a flashlight and extra batteries. You also have a flashlight on your phone. I bring a rechargeable headlamp only and none of the other items. I would trade one power bank for a mini solar panel. You don’t need a copy of your passport: you have your wallet and phone and In Reach. You don’t need two whistles. You can use a clothing pack for a pillow rather than bringing an extra one. And finally you’re carrying too much water. You are camping in an area with water so you don’t need to carry a full gallon between the two vessels (I do agree with the Nalgene bottle but hike with it empty in favor of the bladder.) and finally you have too many packing cubes and separate baggies. Those also add up weight wise. Being organized is important but see if you can combine or eliminate some of those extra bags. All that should cut down on weight significantly!
Hi Jen. I followed u way back when you were doing organization videos. I learned so much from you and still use a ton of ur systems. Especially travel. I wanted to thank you for all ur content back then. I stopped watching ur videos after ur channel was more focused on family life (mostly because I couldn't relate... No kids for me). U were recently suggested in my RUclips feed since I am a hiker and camper.... I was so jazzed to see you again. You look great... Looking forward to watching ur travel content. Take care and happy trails!
This was so nice and helpful! And I just wanted to say that I genuinely appreciate you linking all of the items (makes this a wonderful resource video!) I have been a long time viewer and I adore all of your new content ^__^ Happy holidays!
I applaud you for figuring out and managing all the “stuff”. People kid me that I don’t travel light and I sure don’t! Knowing how heavy a 50 lb suitcase is, I admire that you can carry 41lbs on your back!
I am a regular viewer but rarely comment. I want you to know how much I enjoy watching your channel. I love the new direction for your channel. Merry Christmas and all the best for 2022!🇨🇦❤️
This is sooo Jen type of video😊 backpack organised to perfection. I quite enjoy the new content. Are you planning on doing Colorado hiking? This is my dream. All the best😘
Love this! I know you didn’t have any issue with your powerbanks running low, but I’d definitely recommend a solar powered power bank. I have one that I hang on the back of my pack while hiking so it’s charges up and is always full when I need it.
Loved seeing your pack setup, Jen! REI actually sells replacement buckles for the Sea to Summit bags. If you bring in your bag, a green vest should be able to find a new one in case your folding method ever fails you. I can also attest to both Arc'teryx and Icebreaker being brands well worth the price tag! One of my favorite bug repellents is Sawyer Picaridin if you ever get the chance to pick it up. It's a lotion and dries like a dream on the skin. Not tacky or greasy like some other brands. Can't wait to see how you use your gear in the future!
My goodness it must have taken you a long time to put the long list and links together. Always very organised and super kind Jen. I love following you on your different and exciting journeys.❤️
Jen, I think you would make a great scout leader. Perhaps when your kids are a bit older they could join the youngest section and you could volunteer in their group. It is also great to meet like minded people and give your kids an outlet you would enjoy too. My 4 kids boys and girls have gone through/are going through the various sections. They learn survival, social, and fun skills. They can hike for miles, kayak, rock climb, pitch tents, cook basics and made lovely friends. My older boy went to a venture scout ball at age 17 which is like a non alcohol prom in his tucks and the girls all seemed so different to them in nice gowns instead of their muddy hiking clothes. Just an idea for your future consideration. I’ve made my own best friends through volunteering with things my kids got involved in.
When I was younger, much much younger, I did 3 week wilderness backpacking and at least 50% of the stuff you had I didn’t. Of course I had no technology so none of that weight.
We also cooked over an open fire so none of the weighty cooking stuff either. We also caught fish to eat so didn’t have to pack a bunch. We didn’t carry many toiletries, not as many vessels to drink from or even water. And treats were berries! Live on what you find, it saves carrying 40+pounds.
This was a great video. I appreciate you sharing everything you bring. You should put an extra spork in your emergency bag, just in case. Cant wait til the next video. 😊
Thank you so much for sharing what you had in. your pack, Jen. I really enjoy these kinds of videos. I'll never forget my first hike ever I was carrying 55 pounds. It was so heavy it almost pulled me off the side of a mountain while trying to climb up a cliff. Never again!! Fortunately I wasn't alone and some kind young men came to my rescue 🙏🏼🙌🏼😀
Jen are you listen to the musuc when you hiking or not love your videos we are so proud of you looks like you enjoyed your like more then ever…love you jen..🥰🥳🥳🥳🧿🧿🧿🙏🙏🙏
So I stumbled upon this video while prepping for a hike and I was like wait..... she looks so familiar. And then I realized I know exactly who you are and I was a long time subscriber to your other channels, but I lost you somewhere in the name change. Glad to see a friendly face! I hope you and your family are doing well.
Drooling over the color of your pack. Your pee cloth matches too. Nice! Headlamp is always a necessity--light or dark. I hope you found Miranda on REI helpful. Dixie at Homemade Wanderlust is another good one. You're bringing all the comforts of home, but I bet as you get more comfy on the trail you'll whittle it down a la Cheryl Strayed in Wild. A word of caution on the bear spray--it should be readily accessible, like on your hip belt. A charging bear will amp up your adrenaline which decreases your dexterity and it won't wait for you to fumble around to grab it from wherever it's stashed. (Ignore this if your bray spray is easily accessible, but from the camera angle it didn't look it.) I too find hip belt pockets difficult to access and use a pouch or a waist bag to hold items I use a lot on the trail like my camera, phone, map, a version of a go girl, hand sanitizer, lip balm, sunblock, etc. so I don't need to remove my pack every time I need something. If you ever get into dehydrating food at home to rehydrate on the trail, I'd like to see! It'd also give you the option to try what you're going to pack...I would not be happy about carrying around food that I didn't like. See ya next time!
Yes I would agree it’s best to clip it right to the shoulder strap but the ranger said they hadn’t seen any bears in awhile just to be aware so I moved it as it was kind of a nuisance in the front. But a welcome nuisance if I had felt I needed it at the ready! 🐻
I got a lot of useful information about packaging. Thanks. But I would ask you if possible to tell (maybe give a link) where you bought the bags where you store your personal things like clothes and cosmetics because I like them very much and they look very useful for different bags.
I'm curious why you don't read on the phone Kindle app? It might drain the phone battery but you have the charger with you. I just wanted to say that fall is so hard to prepare which clothing you need. I fish with my husband and the days I think will be warm turn out to be much cooler on the lake. I've learned that lightweight rain gear works great to block the wind and therefore the cold even when it's not raining.
You look like you are having a wonderful time and I am genuinely thrilled for you. But, is your old content gone for good? Shopping hauls? Home organization? Vlogs? Those were definitely my favorites!
Wow!!!! That is alot of stuff to carry on you. All looks necessary though. Would I do it? Nope. Plus I'm a wuss anyway. Scared of all things in the woods ya know.
I bought a solar charger after we got stuck in Fla after hurricane Irma with no power. We had to keep going out to my parents car and charging our phones. So now when we visit I pack the solar charger and a fan that is USB. Could you put the clothes into a compression bag like for travel so they take up less space? Some of those really flatten them out. I don't hike, but I love ur videos, in case I ever decide to, I'll know what to bring.
I’d like to see at the beginning of the video when you do the recap, what month you traveled in. You kept talking about it being warm and I continuously forgot it wasn’t filmed in December
Back in the day when we used to camp a lot, we used to use the solar phone battery chargers and keep them clipped on the outside of our backpack that way we had a way of recharging our charger.. it would probably help with the weight so you don't have to bring 2 😊
I think you packed great for your first trip! There are definitely a lot of things you can take out to save weight! My advice (only bc you asked for it): it’s good to bring too much food & snacks. That’s an important “waste of weight.” You have too many clothes for sure. Even if conditions were different, you could rinse, dry and rewear things. I think most of your extra weight is there. You also have a lot of towels and wipes and hankies and tissues. Pare that down. They add up! You can rinse and reuse. You didn’t need the emergency blanket. Even given the conditions, you have a sleeping bag and clothing, the blanket wasn’t necessary. You didn’t need the sitting pad. The medical kit can probably be halved. See what’s in there and for a short trip like this you can leave duplicate items behind. Also maybe the medications in your toiletry bag are dupes of things in the medical kit. You don’t need a lantern and a headlamp and a flashlight and extra batteries. You also have a flashlight on your phone. I bring a rechargeable headlamp only and none of the other items. I would trade one power bank for a mini solar panel. You don’t need a copy of your passport: you have your wallet and phone and In Reach. You don’t need two whistles. You can use a clothing pack for a pillow rather than bringing an extra one. And finally you’re carrying too much water. You are camping in an area with water so you don’t need to carry a full gallon between the two vessels (I do agree with the Nalgene bottle but hike with it empty in favor of the bladder.) and finally you have too many packing cubes and separate baggies. Those also add up weight wise. Being organized is important but see if you can combine or eliminate some of those extra bags. All that should cut down on weight significantly!
Useful advice!
Hi Jen. I followed u way back when you were doing organization videos. I learned so much from you and still use a ton of ur systems. Especially travel. I wanted to thank you for all ur content back then. I stopped watching ur videos after ur channel was more focused on family life (mostly because I couldn't relate... No kids for me). U were recently suggested in my RUclips feed since I am a hiker and camper.... I was so jazzed to see you again. You look great... Looking forward to watching ur travel content. Take care and happy trails!
This was so nice and helpful! And I just wanted to say that I genuinely appreciate you linking all of the items (makes this a wonderful resource video!) I have been a long time viewer and I adore all of your new content ^__^ Happy holidays!
I applaud you for figuring out and managing all the “stuff”. People kid me that I don’t travel light and I sure don’t! Knowing how heavy a 50 lb suitcase is, I admire that you can carry 41lbs on your back!
I am a regular viewer but rarely comment. I want you to know how much I enjoy watching your channel. I love the new direction for your channel. Merry Christmas and all the best for 2022!🇨🇦❤️
You look great and truly happy !!!! You go girl!!!!
I don't hike, backpack or camp but yet thoroughly enjoyed this video. Lol. 😁
😁😁
Thanks for putting this list together. Much appreciated!
This is sooo Jen type of video😊 backpack organised to perfection. I quite enjoy the new content. Are you planning on doing Colorado hiking? This is my dream. All the best😘
I’m so glad you’re getting into nature and back into backpacking! Wonderful x
Love this! I know you didn’t have any issue with your powerbanks running low, but I’d definitely recommend a solar powered power bank. I have one that I hang on the back of my pack while hiking so it’s charges up and is always full when I need it.
Loved seeing your pack setup, Jen! REI actually sells replacement buckles for the Sea to Summit bags. If you bring in your bag, a green vest should be able to find a new one in case your folding method ever fails you. I can also attest to both Arc'teryx and Icebreaker being brands well worth the price tag! One of my favorite bug repellents is Sawyer Picaridin if you ever get the chance to pick it up. It's a lotion and dries like a dream on the skin. Not tacky or greasy like some other brands. Can't wait to see how you use your gear in the future!
Good to know, thanks!
My goodness it must have taken you a long time to put the long list and links together. Always very organised and super kind Jen. I love following you on your different and exciting journeys.❤️
Jen, I think you would make a great scout leader. Perhaps when your kids are a bit older they could join the youngest section and you could volunteer in their group. It is also great to meet like minded people and give your kids an outlet you would enjoy too. My 4 kids boys and girls have gone through/are going through the various sections. They learn survival, social, and fun skills. They can hike for miles, kayak, rock climb, pitch tents, cook basics and made lovely friends. My older boy went to a venture scout ball at age 17 which is like a non alcohol prom in his tucks and the girls all seemed so different to them in nice gowns instead of their muddy hiking clothes. Just an idea for your future consideration. I’ve made my own best friends through volunteering with things my kids got involved in.
I love all of your gear choices! I also have a similar setup. I look forward to future backpacking videos. Happy hiking!
I wish I looked cute camping. You’re adorable, Jen! ❤️
Thanks ☺️
Dang, all kitted up. 👍
So thorough 😁
When I was younger, much much younger, I did 3 week wilderness backpacking and at least 50% of the stuff you had I didn’t. Of course I had no technology so none of that weight.
We also cooked over an open fire so none of the weighty cooking stuff either. We also caught fish to eat so didn’t have to pack a bunch. We didn’t carry many toiletries, not as many vessels to drink from or even water. And treats were berries! Live on what you find, it saves carrying 40+pounds.
I bought one of those osprey water hose magnets for my camelback and it makes a huge difference. Love a good gear vid! 🏕
Love this!
i absolutely love this kind of videos ! i love nature and Im a camper :-)
This was a great video. I appreciate you sharing everything you bring. You should put an extra spork in your emergency bag, just in case. Cant wait til the next video. 😊
Awesome jen! Hope you have many more adventures! Will you be doing a children’s gift haul this year? Love them! Happy holidays!
I want a pair of those collapsable poles. Great gear and great trip.
You are amazing and I'm truly enjoying your videos. XOXO
Wow, so interesting!!! Thanks Jen.....Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas! 🎄
Thank you so much for sharing what you had in. your pack, Jen. I really enjoy these kinds of videos. I'll never forget my first hike ever I was carrying 55 pounds. It was so heavy it almost pulled me off the side of a mountain while trying to climb up a cliff. Never again!! Fortunately I wasn't alone and some kind young men came to my rescue 🙏🏼🙌🏼😀
Wow! So happy you got some help 🥾
Jen are you listen to the musuc when you hiking or not love your videos we are so proud of you looks like you enjoyed your like more then ever…love you jen..🥰🥳🥳🥳🧿🧿🧿🙏🙏🙏
I usually don’t listen to anything while hiking but I needed a distraction to push through some tough spots so I turned on my audiobook
So I stumbled upon this video while prepping for a hike and I was like wait..... she looks so familiar. And then I realized I know exactly who you are and I was a long time subscriber to your other channels, but I lost you somewhere in the name change. Glad to see a friendly face! I hope you and your family are doing well.
Drooling over the color of your pack. Your pee cloth matches too. Nice! Headlamp is always a necessity--light or dark. I hope you found Miranda on REI helpful. Dixie at Homemade Wanderlust is another good one. You're bringing all the comforts of home, but I bet as you get more comfy on the trail you'll whittle it down a la Cheryl Strayed in Wild. A word of caution on the bear spray--it should be readily accessible, like on your hip belt. A charging bear will amp up your adrenaline which decreases your dexterity and it won't wait for you to fumble around to grab it from wherever it's stashed. (Ignore this if your bray spray is easily accessible, but from the camera angle it didn't look it.) I too find hip belt pockets difficult to access and use a pouch or a waist bag to hold items I use a lot on the trail like my camera, phone, map, a version of a go girl, hand sanitizer, lip balm, sunblock, etc. so I don't need to remove my pack every time I need something. If you ever get into dehydrating food at home to rehydrate on the trail, I'd like to see! It'd also give you the option to try what you're going to pack...I would not be happy about carrying around food that I didn't like. See ya next time!
Yes I would agree it’s best to clip it right to the shoulder strap but the ranger said they hadn’t seen any bears in awhile just to be aware so I moved it as it was kind of a nuisance in the front. But a welcome nuisance if I had felt I needed it at the ready! 🐻
I got a lot of useful information about packaging. Thanks. But I would ask you if possible to tell (maybe give a link) where you bought the bags where you store your personal things like clothes and cosmetics because I like them very much and they look very useful for different bags.
I'm curious why you don't read on the phone Kindle app? It might drain the phone battery but you have the charger with you. I just wanted to say that fall is so hard to prepare which clothing you need. I fish with my husband and the days I think will be warm turn out to be much cooler on the lake. I've learned that lightweight rain gear works great to block the wind and therefore the cold even when it's not raining.
I don’t like reading for long periods on an iPhone screen, it does weird things to my eyes
Love the background @ the
Beginning 🌲🏕…M❄️M of 5
You look like you are having a wonderful time and I am genuinely thrilled for you. But, is your old content gone for good? Shopping hauls? Home organization? Vlogs? Those were definitely my favorites!
It’s hard to predict an unknown future. But all 11+ years of that content from this channel is still there 😁
Wow!!!! That is alot of stuff to carry on you. All looks necessary though. Would I do it? Nope. Plus I'm a wuss anyway. Scared of all things in the woods ya know.
😊❤
I bought a solar charger after we got stuck in Fla after hurricane Irma with no power. We had to keep going out to my parents car and charging our phones. So now when we visit I pack the solar charger and a fan that is USB. Could you put the clothes into a compression bag like for travel so they take up less space? Some of those really flatten them out. I don't hike, but I love ur videos, in case I ever decide to, I'll know what to bring.
I’d like to see at the beginning of the video when you do the recap, what month you traveled in. You kept talking about it being warm and I continuously forgot it wasn’t filmed in December
I can add something like that in future videos. Otherwise it’s always noted in the description ☺️
❤️❤️❤️
What about packing a flare ?
Back in the day when we used to camp a lot, we used to use the solar phone battery chargers and keep them clipped on the outside of our backpack that way we had a way of recharging our charger.. it would probably help with the weight so you don't have to bring 2 😊
Ooh, brilliant! I’ll look into that, thanks
1st 🙋🏻♀️
🥳
Honestly don't think you over packed. But I'm not experienced 🤷🏼♀️
Easter Eggs
Definitely missing original house life fancy videos. This whole out in the sticks things is just unwatchable.
A pee rag is just...ugh.
It’s designed specifically for that purpose & is a much more hiking/earth friendly alternative than packing in & out tissue IMO
I have so many questions 🙋♀️