Obviously not tips or advice for everybody! But super ultralight has been something I have greatly enjoyed these past 10 years, and hope you get some interesting out of it as well!
This is all really helpful! Your videos helped me get dialed down to sub-7lbs for a three season kit. I'm still trying to find ways to go lighter all the time. I'm still a ways off from sleeping on a cut-down thinlight, though...
learn to collect food as you go - you can save a lot of weight if you don't have to carry food 😀 edit: I don't save weight on shoes but I wear (not affiliated) Vibram FiveFingers so I can take a few pairs to rotate or wait for a wet one to dry out 😀 having dry/fresh shoes whenever you want them is an amazing luxury and will really effect your experiential mood.
As always, your video is an encyclopedia of trail knowledge. For tent stakes, my suggestion is to take one or two of the stronger stakes if someone isn't completely comfortable with shephard hooks. You should be able to set a rock or log on the stake, but that's the skills part you are discussing
Jupiter, you are an inspiration in the world of hiking. I think that unfolding cards about your personal life struggle in a yt video could really impact on many to get their s*** toghter. Kind of bio in video format. Outdoors can heal I know that myself
I am an ultralight hiker in my 50s, and it’s worth mentioning that going you UL is much easier on your body even if you’re not interested in FKT’s or mega miles. My base weight is usually around 8 pounds in the summer and 10 pounds in the shoulder seasons, and I can really feel the difference in the impact that it has on my body, especially my knees.
One of the things that I have always appreciated about your videos is that you are honest about the trade offs and skills required to go really ultra light. Thanks for all the great content!
i hiked the pct in 2023 with an 11llb pack and received way more judgment than i would've ever imagined for using such a light set up. lots of people were genuinely impressed, curious, complementary, etc. but others would cast judgment and doubt. thanks for advocating for this style of backpacking and making great points. you definitely inspired me to try ultralight and helped me prepare for it. appreciate you!
Jupiter, the 30 tips you discussed in this video regarding ultralight, leading to super ultralight is so highly valuable. Every topic in your dialog is backed and tested by thousands miles. I'm at a 10 lb base and to venture into the single digits could be possible in the best summer conditions. Again, I want to thank you for another incredibly informative video, that few have the experience to put forth.
This is the first time that I've seen anyone speak about super UL without the zealotry. Thanks. I do it happily, but it takes a certain kind of trip in mind and some pretty optimum conditions. August in the Sierra. Big days, no bugs. Only walking and sleeping. Not much weather. No caring about a pretty camp site or hanging around with friends after dark.
I recently watched a video you were mentioned in. One of the commentators said "Everyone wants to be like Jupiter, but Jupiter always says "This may not be for everyone." It made me chuckle. Congrat's on all you've done, Jupiter, you've been an inspiration for many.
I've taken what I could learn from people like yourself and it's helped me to make my activities much more enjoyable. It's often a bike touring or bikepacking thing and over time I started to park the bike at a trailhead or hike out from camp. Even started to integrate a packraft into the long rides. These days it's been learning to snowshoe. With all this, gear changes, especially from season to season in Upstate NY. Always inspiring to learn more from you and from others in the comments!
I’m trying to bring less and less, as well as carry lighter items for what I bring. However, I think I will always be too bougie to ever be this minimalist. Kudos to you for thriving at it!
Thanks for the video. A lot of people talk about ultralight on youtube, but most of them have little experience with it. And virtually no one with these extremes.
I wouldn't consider myself ultralight, but watching your videos like this have really helped me trim down my overall pack weight considerably. I really enjoy how your channel includes your trips, as well as these gear/advice videos. Keep up the great work and thank you for sharing.
The best part of this video is the disclaimer. With this gear in anything but the finest weather you'll regret it. That's why you don't see this in Tasmania ,New Zealand, Scotland etc
True. Sustained driving rain and sleet at 33f will make you wish you had a full featured rain jacket and rain pants as well as substantial gloves and overmitts. There is a time and place for UL and SUL.
As you say its all about tradeoffs. One way is to think about actual minutes used to minutes on the back. Given the time spent sleeping, and the value of a good nights sleep, maybe a slightly heavier inflatable mattress is a good trade.
Another cracking video full of useful stuff. I've been going ultralight since the 1990s and back then had to build my own gear out of necessity as there was very little about. Thank God, dcf and MLD and ZPacks, etc. came along who could sew straight!
People pack so much because they're scared to get it wrong, not realizing they're voluntarily getting it wrong in the opposite direction. The key is to realize that getting it wrong is inevitable, (such is life), and to get comfortable with the process.
Really appreciate this video. I've been working on a kit for one nighter's at that 4.5 ish base weight that fits in a 10L running pack and this is really helpful.
Excellent video as always! I especially appreciate your word of caution in the beginning. I hope ro try a superlight trip this summer when it is safer foe me in my area. Thanks!
My super ultralight life hack was to have a less-than-refined diet over the past year that resulted in weight gain. The extra insulation helps quite a bit with the cold nights and not needing to bring extra layers. Ha ha. Thanks for the actual, good tips. As always.
Thanks for your videos as well! You inspired me to hike the colorado trail this summer and successfully completed it. I was able to do with a tarp and not get wet and dropped my base weight from 25 to under 10lbs. Thank you!
I just made a comment on the video posted by you a month ago on your ultralight gear list pertaining to just using a large a new smartphone as the only power source, not bringing a power bank. Good to see you recommending it here. If the conditions allow not bringing the bank is a very easy way to save weight.
I really REALLY enjoyed this video and all of your others. Hands down, the best hiking advice. If there is a teeny weenie negative? I always kind of think I have wasted 60+ years. Over 70 now and making up a little for that. BTW I find your light weight, ultra-light, SUL advice valuable in so many ways and in other areas as well. Thanks for all you do and all you share w/ us. ULTRA appreciated. 🙂
I turned 70 six months ago and feel that I was twice as fit half a lifetime ago so a light pack is essential now. It's true that I wonder what I could have done back then if kit had been as good then as it is now but, actually, the adventures were pretty great back then. I feel that SUL is out of reach not because I live in Scotland but because I prefer climbing to summits over hiking long trails. Near SUL is definitely possible on something like the SUW in softer seasons. I'd love to see an SUL set up for Munro bagging. Anyone have any ideas?
I think Ray Jardine & Mike Clelland would especially appreciate this one! :D My addition would be to repackage any personal products that you do need to bring! (Even the "travel size" containers are usually way bigger than what you need to carry.) For example, I find that 6mL eye dropper vials are a great size for Dr. Bronner's soap and AquaMira's part A & B (make sure it's opaque for the AM!) A 15mL bottle is nice for hand sani. Sunscreen fits well in a 30 or 60mL bottle. I also like toothbrush tablets instead of a travel tube.
Mike has emailed with me a couple times, I think he would have appreciated even more if I had made one of these tips to go buy his book 😉 which is a great book and people should buy it! Nice guy and definitely a huge inspiration early on
I've found that lightening up has encouraged me to hike slower instead of rushing to get the hike over with. With a lighter load I have energy to look around, relish all my senses, tune into my breath and movement, think more clearly, be more relaxed and meditative, etc. I don't want to rush that at all, no way.
This is very impressive. I would have totally done it this way when I was young if it was possible and a known thing. I used to sleep without any mattress or foam under me as a young dude, in a $20 pup tent, cycling trips and road trips in the NE and in Europe. I was fine right on the floor of the tent lol. Now I suffered with closed cell foam pads for a decade and a half, then swtiched to lightweight air mattresses 3 years ago - at age 57 it is a necessity. I use a Dyneema tent now but I would like to try a tarp only, on desert treks maybe. Trying to get my wife to let us to Tahoe rim trail this year.
Ah yes - up through my 40s I could sleep on a closed-cell foam pad. It wasn't comfortable, and I was pretty stiff when I woke up, but I did sleep and the stiffness went away after moving around for a bit. Then came my 50s, and sleeping on a closed-cell foam pad is miserable to the point that I get almost no sleep. If I'm not sleeping, it gets harder & harder to make smart decisions. If I have to sleep on the ground, I use a Zenbivy mattress. But usually I'm in a hammock, cocooned between down quilts, feeling the breeze rock me to sleep. **bliss**
Thanks for your videos! Your videos were a big reason I could do the PCT on a 5.25lbs base weight this year. I did use a poncho tarp and it seemed perfect to me, but I got lucky and only had 1 day of real rain within 80 days of hiking (I unfortunately had to quiet at the OR/WA border).
My struggle is that I don't want to hike in highseason just to have better weather... because I go hiking to get away from people & spend time in nature mostly by myself😅 Sure, I could go hike the Tour du Montblanc in July instead of September and leave the puffy at home, but then I would have 3-5 times as many other people on an already busy trail. So I'm going in September 🤷 but thanks for all the tips, most of them are very helpful for me personally!
i walked accross all europe, like 5k km and didnt use tarp or anything against rain, but i check weather forcast on my phone everyday, so if i knew rain is coming i would find some ruins or anything i can hide from rain under and sleep like that, trip was 6 months in autumn winter and never even once got wet, always managed to dodge all rains, wait them out, there is always smthing to hide under in most environments, was really super light, only sifnificant object i was carrying was sleeping blanket
Killer video friend! You covered a lot of unspoken tips, like the acceptable level of discomfort chosen, being particular in weather windows and how realistic needs based off of experience > the subconscious fears some (will still) pack (even with their level of experience). If you’re looking to go LIGHT, this is it, the mindset..
I thought I was doing well to get my baseweight down to 12lb (including camera equipment)! I already have a Zpacks tent, backpack, and charger; and I don't carry a knife anymore. I think where I could shave off some pounds is in my clothing. I carry an ultralight puffy AND tights. I'll look for a fleece and some wind pants in my travels. Interesting cook system! These tips will help, thanks Jupiter!
My girlfriend has made a few backpacks, which are all highly customized to what she wants, and no other company offers! She's also made a shelter, and some other things. But really think about how simple ultralight gear can be. You can make that! And it's fun to do once you get the hang of it. A good resource for learning is LearnMYOG on RUclips, who also has a website with patterns and further detailed instruction. Then also the reddit MYOG page is great.
I see so many benefits of living a minimalist lifestyle in general 😊 You live a very minimalist lifestyle while on the trail. Do you prefer to maintain a minimalist lifestyle when you're not hiking, or do you feel the need for more because of your lifestyle on the trail? Thanks
The AZT was my first thru hike. I was at around an 11 lb. baseweight, but it almost makes me want to do the AZT again because I think it’s the ideal trail to experiment with going SUL.
Beyond SUL (with respect to base weight) is being SUL with food by having nutrient dense and caloricly dense food. No soaking with pouches of fish, nuts and seeds, olive oil, accomplishes that. Even more extreme but beneficial is training the body in a fasted state and hiking fasted. Might be slower, but can go farther and last longer without resupply. Also good practice in case you run out of food and accidentally starve. I can go a long time without food so long as I have salt and water.
@ that’s i regularly measure my blood glucose and blood ketone levels, and slowly eased into becoming ketone-adapted and fat-adapted, per the research in Phinney and Volek. Technically, I’ve been ‘hypoglycemic’ per standard measures many times, but in fact, i felt just fine b/c the standard research on this topic is wholly adequate when dealing with people who are fat adapted and ketone adapted. It’s a next-level strategy for hikers who really want to be prepared for starvation, as it will inevitably happen. I’ve been there, and it’s awful. But at that time, i was addicted to sugar, carbs and caffeine. Now I’m not addicted to anything and know i can survive just fine for weeks, if not months, on just water and salt.
I'm not moving into a keto diet type thing, but I am beginning to let myself experience being hungry. It's interesting how I've gone from knee jerk reaction to being hungry then gorging myself, to knowing that I'm hungry, but so what, and carried on.
@@peterjohnson6273 yeah, well nobody is asking you to go keto. But if you let yourself be hungry long enough, and get used to it, eventually your body will go into ketosis and then suppress the hunger hormones that activate your brain into thinking “I’m hungry!”. I further found that most of what i considered to be ‘hunger’ in the past was not REAL hunger, ie, not a biological NEED for food, but a CRAVING, akin to a drug addiction, that was a symptom of a problem. Sugar and carbs create cravings and blood sugar spikes and dips, whereas fatty food leads to satiety and stable blood sugar levels. This has all been well studied. Fatty foods and nuts and seeds (which have good fat) are best (ie., most ultralight, meaning most calories and nutrients per gram) for thru hiking.
Thanks Jupiter. I agree that research/planning/weather/experience etc is the most important aspect. I wonder if an umbrella could also be used as part of a shelter
@@JupiterHikes I sure remember Evan on the PCT a couple of years back doing it all the time. And he stayed very dry. You made some very nice comments to and about him and his tarp methods.
Your backpacking style reminds me of orchids that are so specialized that they may only attract one pollinator species, much like the bee orchids in europe that attract male bees because the flowers look and smell like female bees. Of course, that makes them very 'fragile' too, just like how you're kind of on the edge of what is possible versus what could make you absolutely miserable or worse. It's kind of beautiful.
Hell yeah! nerdy sul advice. I think if you want to be that lightweight and minimal there is a bit of a different philosophy. It doesn't really matter whether your baseweight is 8, 6 or 4 lbs. At that point your pack is really light anyways. So then it starts to be about minimalism. How little do I need instead of how much can I have while still maintaining an ultralight kit. If that makes sense. There's a great freedom that comes with it. And so much pride, which I try to hide from the others of course. But yes, I am the coolest mf out there if I only have a 30l pack. I used to try to go as light and minimal as possible. Then I got interested in a more classic lightweight kit. What would it really be like to have a 15lbs basweight with all of the little luxuries? Can't be too bad, since that's how most other people are doing it right? Found out that a 15lbs pack is allright. Yes, it works. And you are well prepared for all kinds of conditions. But also you DO feel the weight with pretty much every step. And being so prepared makes it kind of boring to be honest. So now I think I'll go back to the ul side of things. Or sul. Trying to go as light as possible. Have some fun and some II suffering. Lol. Thanks for the video. Always interesting to hear from someone with years and 1000s of miles of experience
A well-priced (likely half the cost of a specialist hiking version), "ultralight" umbrella is the Doppler Zero Pocket Umbrella at 99g. Comes in lots of colours and does fit in your pocket.
One thing you didn't mention is that you can just make everything edible and it doesn't count towards base weight. Instead of a foam sleeping pad, try using wafer. Replace your tarp with large strips of kombu seaweed. And replace all your stakes with candy canes. This way everything is technically consumables and you can brag that your base weight is way lower.
@@MB4msc You can use the same 1,0 dyneema on your poncho/tarp floor thats already used on UL tents. I have used the lighter 0,75 dyneema and even that has holded up fine.
Yea dude I get the idea of super ultra light but I just can’t do it. Got my base weight to 9 with a duplex and that’s as far as I’m willing to go. Great video man , confirmed to me that I’ll never be in that category.
Always done heavy ruck sacks. But I’ve been getting into lightweight. Im almost down below 10 pounds with my gear but my sleeping bag is holding me back I don’t have the money for one of these expensive quilts any suggestions for a budget lightweight option Also love the Chanel man keep it up
I use a full sized heavy poncho. It's a perfectly good tarp or hammock or rain jacket. Takes care of a lot of business. The extremely lightweight materials are what screws up ponchos.
If you aren’t comfortable with what you carry, it just doesn’t matter what your pack weight is. I can’t say I’ve ever bragged on my base weight, I have bragged on my experiences. Still, it’s good information to absorb.
the next step is Omega Hyperlight Don't take this seriously I was just playing around with how someone might get stupid about ultralight. It might be fun to try it as a short trip though tips and tricks: hike in the summer hike at night, sleep during the day to minimize the need for insulation and sun protection bring no food, eat during "resupply", you can go three days without eating without significant health issues, that's 90 miles minimum that require no food if food carries go beyond 90 miles drink olive oil from a ziplock. or peanut butter if you are weak. don't filter, take the risk. carry no water. most water carries are less than 30 miles, you can go one day without water without significant health issues. study the map beforehand so you don't need to bring navigation with you use leaves as toilet paper, use a stick as a trowel (but you had better actually dig a proper cat hole or I will find you) sleep in all of your clothes (if necessary) no phone, if you need to make a call borrow someone else's gear list: minimal set of clothes some form of insulation some form of rain protection Sos emergency bivy functions as dual shelter and sleeping bag tiny compass (yes even now you should have one) ultralight flashlight and whatever minimal batteries you need, keep it 30 lumens or less credit card to pay for resupply dcf bag to put stuff in Leave everything else at home. Yes I mean everything. if you don't count worn weight I'll bet this could be less than half a pound Is this light enough yet?
The Six Moon Gatewood Cape works better than lighter poncho tarps, and I do use mine for some short trips, but even in that case the lightest tarp plus the lightest rain gear is going to be a similar weight or less.
I haven't tried one but always kinda figured I'd be too tall for a gatewood! Then add on that my larger 7x9 tarp and many rain jackets are lighter than it... And again I think I'll leave the poncho tarp behind.
Sir, you offer excellent videos & copious explanation re your lightweight gear. Impressive. I think about forest and desert "users" (humans) in the Western US, that are out for a week, weekend or a few days, some would go longer, like you. I've been in the Sierras, Tetons, Wind Rivers and many ranges in the West - July - Aug - and mosquito (protection) is required, tent (sealed) & head net often. Into Sept. cooler weather, bugs abate. In the desert, at times, gnats can be prominent . Often if I was off trail, & if scrambling scree fields, boulders, hard snow, it was safer to have a light mountaineering boot and ice axe. Also some sort of knife, good tweezers; sliver, burr or spine (cactus).It's an art what you are doing, testing and then using viable light weight gear for mountains and desert. I'm certain many benefit from it - but please personal safety is always paramount, don't damage feet, ankles, knees with inadequate foot gear. And over time, the quality of the experience (not the quantity) will be so much more dominant in your travel planning.
I am a seamstress. So am planning on making my own wind pants, etc. and I like my current pack so much, that I am planning on saving the tiny bit of frame that is in it to make my own design. Or I may make one totally with no frame. We shall see once this one wears out. I have already made my own pack bags. But I use three. Food bag, diddy bag. And I like to put my stove and cookpot in one. ( don’t care for cold dinner. Ok with cold coffee and breakfasts , but want a warm dinner. ). I think I am going to make my own rain jacket and seam seal it as well. I have an idea of what I want, and cannot find one like that. At least not in the weight range I need. I have not decided what to do about tent. Don’t like my current big Agnes. Not bad quality, but zippers are always getting caught up, it’s a bummer to set up in rain or wind, and I would like to get my weight down. I know I want a two person trekking pole tent. But the expense is so outrageous. I wish there were patterns for trekking pole tents out there. I can seam seal it myself.
On Rain jackets: Look into dyneema rain jackets, waterproof however not breathable. I believe you can get down to three ounces with a dyneema rain jacket.
To go super ultralight, you just need to wear your tent like a cape and your quilt like an apron. That way, when you weigh your pack for base weight, it’s gonna be sub 5 pounds.
Winter is tough as conditions are so harsh in some places. Last winter for instance I lived in a place where it was -20 degrees for a couple weeks. Then in other places winter is pretty mild and you could easily do it with a sub 10lb kit. So that variance makes a blanket statement on what is ultralight difficult, and ultimately I'm not sure I'd be concerning myself as much with a number outside of the three seasons as the risk is so much higher. Do what makes the most sense to your safety, but in the same way you could apply the UL principals of being critical with gear and what is truly needed. Mountaineers on multi day, fast, expeditions would be a good place to maybe look further
I like enlightened equipment, usually using the enigma with down insulation, 950fp, and generally 7D/10D combo for fabrics. The temp rating depends on the trip but most often I use a 30. Zpacks I think makes a slightly lighter quilt which is comparably warm, but EE has more fun options
Obviously not tips or advice for everybody! But super ultralight has been something I have greatly enjoyed these past 10 years, and hope you get some interesting out of it as well!
This is all really helpful! Your videos helped me get dialed down to sub-7lbs for a three season kit. I'm still trying to find ways to go lighter all the time. I'm still a ways off from sleeping on a cut-down thinlight, though...
learn to collect food as you go - you can save a lot of weight if you don't have to carry food 😀
edit: I don't save weight on shoes but I wear (not affiliated) Vibram FiveFingers so I can take a few pairs to rotate or wait for a wet one to dry out 😀 having dry/fresh shoes whenever you want them is an amazing luxury and will really effect your experiential mood.
That sleeping pad always amazes me. But, is Jupiter a side sleeper? Makes a difference, I believe
As always, your video is an encyclopedia of trail knowledge. For tent stakes, my suggestion is to take one or two of the stronger stakes if someone isn't completely comfortable with shephard hooks. You should be able to set a rock or log on the stake, but that's the skills part you are discussing
Jupiter, you are an inspiration in the world of hiking. I think that unfolding cards about your personal life struggle in a yt video could really impact on many to get their s*** toghter. Kind of bio in video format. Outdoors can heal I know that myself
I am an ultralight hiker in my 50s, and it’s worth mentioning that going you UL is much easier on your body even if you’re not interested in FKT’s or mega miles. My base weight is usually around 8 pounds in the summer and 10 pounds in the shoulder seasons, and I can really feel the difference in the impact that it has on my body, especially my knees.
Watching your videos has my base weight down from 55lbs to 12.
My knees thank you.
GahhhhhDamn
Wow... what were you carrying? Anvils? :o
One of the things that I have always appreciated about your videos is that you are honest about the trade offs and skills required to go really ultra light. Thanks for all the great content!
i hiked the pct in 2023 with an 11llb pack and received way more judgment than i would've ever imagined for using such a light set up. lots of people were genuinely impressed, curious, complementary, etc. but others would cast judgment and doubt. thanks for advocating for this style of backpacking and making great points. you definitely inspired me to try ultralight and helped me prepare for it. appreciate you!
Jupiter, the 30 tips you discussed in this video regarding ultralight, leading to super ultralight is so highly valuable. Every topic in your dialog is backed and tested by thousands miles. I'm at a 10 lb base and to venture into the single digits could be possible in the best summer conditions. Again, I want to thank you for another incredibly informative video, that few have the experience to put forth.
Love that you’re not really plugging products to buy, but more of a framework for a different kind of backpacking. So helpful and refreshing!
You always present different perspectives on planning gear. Your enthusiasm is contagious. Always good, Jupiter. Thanks.
I have learned something new from every one of your videos. The calm, considered presentation is beautifully refined.
You bro I just want to let you know your my favorite RUclipsr you make the best content and give the best lessons keep doing what your
Doing ❤
This is the first time that I've seen anyone speak about super UL without the zealotry. Thanks.
I do it happily, but it takes a certain kind of trip in mind and some pretty optimum conditions. August in the Sierra. Big days, no bugs. Only walking and sleeping. Not much weather. No caring about a pretty camp site or hanging around with friends after dark.
I recently watched a video you were mentioned in. One of the commentators said "Everyone wants to be like Jupiter, but Jupiter always says "This may not be for everyone." It made me chuckle. Congrat's on all you've done, Jupiter, you've been an inspiration for many.
I've taken what I could learn from people like yourself and it's helped me to make my activities much more enjoyable. It's often a bike touring or bikepacking thing and over time I started to park the bike at a trailhead or hike out from camp. Even started to integrate a packraft into the long rides. These days it's been learning to snowshoe. With all this, gear changes, especially from season to season in Upstate NY. Always inspiring to learn more from you and from others in the comments!
LOVE how you intelligently represent this perspective. Not for everyone but DEFINITELY an effective option for some. Keep going Jupiter!
I’m trying to bring less and less, as well as carry lighter items for what I bring. However, I think I will always be too bougie to ever be this minimalist. Kudos to you for thriving at it!
Thanks for the video. A lot of people talk about ultralight on youtube, but most of them have little experience with it. And virtually no one with these extremes.
Man, this is getting me pumped to get back out there!
I wouldn't consider myself ultralight, but watching your videos like this have really helped me trim down my overall pack weight considerably. I really enjoy how your channel includes your trips, as well as these gear/advice videos. Keep up the great work and thank you for sharing.
you helped me get to 8.5 lbs over the years, - biggest obstacle my XL clothing size
That's tough but hey we are who we are and even more impressive when we do it! I wear mostly large but often XL too
The best part of this video is the disclaimer. With this gear in anything but the finest weather you'll regret it. That's why you don't see this in Tasmania ,New Zealand, Scotland etc
100% agree. I’ve been stuck in multi day long snowstorms in the high sierras. If I would have just had a tarp and a fleece I wouldn’t be here now
True. Sustained driving rain and sleet at 33f will make you wish you had a full featured rain jacket and rain pants as well as substantial gloves and overmitts. There is a time and place for UL and SUL.
Best video on backpack tips Ive ever watched
As you say its all about tradeoffs. One way is to think about actual minutes used to minutes on the back. Given the time spent sleeping, and the value of a good nights sleep, maybe a slightly heavier inflatable mattress is a good trade.
Take these tips and then take your time on trail. Gold medal in life
Another cracking video full of useful stuff. I've been going ultralight since the 1990s and back then had to build my own gear out of necessity as there was very little about. Thank God, dcf and MLD and ZPacks, etc. came along who could sew straight!
People pack so much because they're scared to get it wrong, not realizing they're voluntarily getting it wrong in the opposite direction. The key is to realize that getting it wrong is inevitable, (such is life), and to get comfortable with the process.
Really appreciate this video. I've been working on a kit for one nighter's at that 4.5 ish base weight that fits in a 10L running pack and this is really helpful.
Excellent video as always! I especially appreciate your word of caution in the beginning. I hope ro try a superlight trip this summer when it is safer foe me in my area. Thanks!
Good to hear you talk again about SUL!!👍
My super ultralight life hack was to have a less-than-refined diet over the past year that resulted in weight gain. The extra insulation helps quite a bit with the cold nights and not needing to bring extra layers. Ha ha. Thanks for the actual, good tips. As always.
Thanks for your videos as well! You inspired me to hike the colorado trail this summer and successfully completed it. I was able to do with a tarp and not get wet and dropped my base weight from 25 to under 10lbs. Thank you!
I just made a comment on the video posted by you a month ago on your ultralight gear list pertaining to just using a large a new smartphone as the only power source, not bringing a power bank. Good to see you recommending it here. If the conditions allow not bringing the bank is a very easy way to save weight.
I really REALLY enjoyed this video and all of your others. Hands down, the best hiking advice. If there is a teeny weenie negative? I always kind of think I have wasted 60+ years. Over 70 now and making up a little for that. BTW I find your light weight, ultra-light, SUL advice valuable in so many ways and in other areas as well. Thanks for all you do and all you share w/ us. ULTRA appreciated. 🙂
I turned 70 six months ago and feel that I was twice as fit half a lifetime ago so a light pack is essential now. It's true that I wonder what I could have done back then if kit had been as good then as it is now but, actually, the adventures were pretty great back then. I feel that SUL is out of reach not because I live in Scotland but because I prefer climbing to summits over hiking long trails. Near SUL is definitely possible on something like the SUW in softer seasons. I'd love to see an SUL set up for Munro bagging. Anyone have any ideas?
👍🐿👍thank you for sharing your passion brother. Happy holidays. Stay safe y'all.
Excellent tips, especially MYOG! I've made a few things and love those items the most. Cheers!
I think Ray Jardine & Mike Clelland would especially appreciate this one! :D
My addition would be to repackage any personal products that you do need to bring! (Even the "travel size" containers are usually way bigger than what you need to carry.)
For example, I find that 6mL eye dropper vials are a great size for Dr. Bronner's soap and AquaMira's part A & B (make sure it's opaque for the AM!)
A 15mL bottle is nice for hand sani.
Sunscreen fits well in a 30 or 60mL bottle.
I also like toothbrush tablets instead of a travel tube.
I feel you got it exactly right about Ray and Mike.!
Mike has emailed with me a couple times, I think he would have appreciated even more if I had made one of these tips to go buy his book 😉 which is a great book and people should buy it! Nice guy and definitely a huge inspiration early on
I read the NOLS mountaineering weather book. What I learned is to never trust a cloud
I've found that lightening up has encouraged me to hike slower instead of rushing to get the hike over with. With a lighter load I have energy to look around, relish all my senses, tune into my breath and movement, think more clearly, be more relaxed and meditative, etc. I don't want to rush that at all, no way.
This is very impressive. I would have totally done it this way when I was young if it was possible and a known thing. I used to sleep without any mattress or foam under me as a young dude, in a $20 pup tent, cycling trips and road trips in the NE and in Europe. I was fine right on the floor of the tent lol. Now I suffered with closed cell foam pads for a decade and a half, then swtiched to lightweight air mattresses 3 years ago - at age 57 it is a necessity. I use a Dyneema tent now but I would like to try a tarp only, on desert treks maybe. Trying to get my wife to let us to Tahoe rim trail this year.
Ah yes - up through my 40s I could sleep on a closed-cell foam pad. It wasn't comfortable, and I was pretty stiff when I woke up, but I did sleep and the stiffness went away after moving around for a bit.
Then came my 50s, and sleeping on a closed-cell foam pad is miserable to the point that I get almost no sleep. If I'm not sleeping, it gets harder & harder to make smart decisions. If I have to sleep on the ground, I use a Zenbivy mattress. But usually I'm in a hammock, cocooned between down quilts, feeling the breeze rock me to sleep. **bliss**
Thanks for your videos! Your videos were a big reason I could do the PCT on a 5.25lbs base weight this year. I did use a poncho tarp and it seemed perfect to me, but I got lucky and only had 1 day of real rain within 80 days of hiking (I unfortunately had to quiet at the OR/WA border).
The exact video I needed. I'm trying to go super ultralight on the tahoe rim trail in the winter.
1:57 one of my favorite parts of the SDTCT!
My struggle is that I don't want to hike in highseason just to have better weather... because I go hiking to get away from people & spend time in nature mostly by myself😅 Sure, I could go hike the Tour du Montblanc in July instead of September and leave the puffy at home, but then I would have 3-5 times as many other people on an already busy trail. So I'm going in September 🤷 but thanks for all the tips, most of them are very helpful for me personally!
Great tips! Especially the poncho tarp review! Someday I’d like to do a tarp, but I’m afraid of waking with a snake beside me.
Inspiring! Learned a lot. Thanks
i walked accross all europe, like 5k km and didnt use tarp or anything against rain, but i check weather forcast on my phone everyday, so if i knew rain is coming i would find some ruins or anything i can hide from rain under and sleep like that, trip was 6 months in autumn winter and never even once got wet, always managed to dodge all rains, wait them out, there is always smthing to hide under in most environments, was really super light, only sifnificant object i was carrying was sleeping blanket
I love these kind of videos. It's inspiring
Killer video friend! You covered a lot of unspoken tips, like the acceptable level of discomfort chosen, being particular in weather windows and how realistic needs based off of experience > the subconscious fears some (will still) pack (even with their level of experience). If you’re looking to go LIGHT, this is it, the mindset..
I love this !
Great stuff! Well done. Always love your tips. Crow✌️
Amazing tips!
take everything but the advice lightly. lots of great info in a short amount of time!
Montbell makes a 3.2oz umbrella if anyone is looking for alternatives to GG or 6MD
Thank you. It is helpful.
I thought I was doing well to get my baseweight down to 12lb (including camera equipment)! I already have a Zpacks tent, backpack, and charger; and I don't carry a knife anymore. I think where I could shave off some pounds is in my clothing. I carry an ultralight puffy AND tights. I'll look for a fleece and some wind pants in my travels. Interesting cook system! These tips will help, thanks Jupiter!
Was really interested in your MYOG remarks. Can you do a video on what you've made and what sewing machine you use, etc?
Thanks for all your videos!
My girlfriend has made a few backpacks, which are all highly customized to what she wants, and no other company offers! She's also made a shelter, and some other things. But really think about how simple ultralight gear can be. You can make that! And it's fun to do once you get the hang of it.
A good resource for learning is LearnMYOG on RUclips, who also has a website with patterns and further detailed instruction. Then also the reddit MYOG page is great.
I would love some myog-videos/tutorials! :)
I see so many benefits of living a minimalist lifestyle in general 😊 You live a very minimalist lifestyle while on the trail. Do you prefer to maintain a minimalist lifestyle when you're not hiking, or do you feel the need for more because of your lifestyle on the trail? Thanks
I definitely feel the need for less in my normal life too! Which is great as that helps me in a big way to be able to financially do these trips
The AZT was my first thru hike. I was at around an 11 lb. baseweight, but it almost makes me want to do the AZT again because I think it’s the ideal trail to experiment with going SUL.
Beyond SUL (with respect to base weight) is being SUL with food by having nutrient dense and caloricly dense food. No soaking with pouches of fish, nuts and seeds, olive oil, accomplishes that. Even more extreme but beneficial is training the body in a fasted state and hiking fasted. Might be slower, but can go farther and last longer without resupply. Also good practice in case you run out of food and accidentally starve. I can go a long time without food so long as I have salt and water.
Okay if you're not hypoglycemic!
@ that’s i regularly measure my blood glucose and blood ketone levels, and slowly eased into becoming ketone-adapted and fat-adapted, per the research in Phinney and Volek. Technically, I’ve been ‘hypoglycemic’ per standard measures many times, but in fact, i felt just fine b/c the standard research on this topic is wholly adequate when dealing with people who are fat adapted and ketone adapted. It’s a next-level strategy for hikers who really want to be prepared for starvation, as it will inevitably happen. I’ve been there, and it’s awful. But at that time, i was addicted to sugar, carbs and caffeine. Now I’m not addicted to anything and know i can survive just fine for weeks, if not months, on just water and salt.
I'm not moving into a keto diet type thing, but I am beginning to let myself experience being hungry. It's interesting how I've gone from knee jerk reaction to being hungry then gorging myself, to knowing that I'm hungry, but so what, and carried on.
@@peterjohnson6273 yeah, well nobody is asking you to go keto. But if you let yourself be hungry long enough, and get used to it, eventually your body will go into ketosis and then suppress the hunger hormones that activate your brain into thinking “I’m hungry!”. I further found that most of what i considered to be ‘hunger’ in the past was not REAL hunger, ie, not a biological NEED for food, but a CRAVING, akin to a drug addiction, that was a symptom of a problem. Sugar and carbs create cravings and blood sugar spikes and dips, whereas fatty food leads to satiety and stable blood sugar levels. This has all been well studied. Fatty foods and nuts and seeds (which have good fat) are best (ie., most ultralight, meaning most calories and nutrients per gram) for thru hiking.
Thanks Jupiter. I agree that research/planning/weather/experience etc is the most important aspect. I wonder if an umbrella could also be used as part of a shelter
Sure can! I've used them alongside a tarp. But I will say if there is any wind then this method can be a bit annoying
@@JupiterHikes I sure remember Evan on the PCT a couple of years back doing it all the time. And he stayed very dry. You made some very nice comments to and about him and his tarp methods.
Your backpacking style reminds me of orchids that are so specialized that they may only attract one pollinator species, much like the bee orchids in europe that attract male bees because the flowers look and smell like female bees. Of course, that makes them very 'fragile' too, just like how you're kind of on the edge of what is possible versus what could make you absolutely miserable or worse. It's kind of beautiful.
Hell yeah! nerdy sul advice. I think if you want to be that lightweight and minimal there is a bit of a different philosophy. It doesn't really matter whether your baseweight is 8, 6 or 4 lbs. At that point your pack is really light anyways. So then it starts to be about minimalism. How little do I need instead of how much can I have while still maintaining an ultralight kit. If that makes sense. There's a great freedom that comes with it. And so much pride, which I try to hide from the others of course. But yes, I am the coolest mf out there if I only have a 30l pack. I used to try to go as light and minimal as possible. Then I got interested in a more classic lightweight kit. What would it really be like to have a 15lbs basweight with all of the little luxuries? Can't be too bad, since that's how most other people are doing it right? Found out that a 15lbs pack is allright. Yes, it works. And you are well prepared for all kinds of conditions. But also you DO feel the weight with pretty much every step. And being so prepared makes it kind of boring to be honest. So now I think I'll go back to the ul side of things. Or sul. Trying to go as light as possible. Have some fun and some II suffering. Lol. Thanks for the video. Always interesting to hear from someone with years and 1000s of miles of experience
A well-priced (likely half the cost of a specialist hiking version), "ultralight" umbrella is the Doppler Zero Pocket Umbrella at 99g. Comes in lots of colours and does fit in your pocket.
One thing you didn't mention is that you can just make everything edible and it doesn't count towards base weight. Instead of a foam sleeping pad, try using wafer. Replace your tarp with large strips of kombu seaweed. And replace all your stakes with candy canes. This way everything is technically consumables and you can brag that your base weight is way lower.
Great video. Thanks for sharing 👍
Poncho tarps aren't great but using poncho as a tarp floor has worked for me wonderfully. I don't understand why more SUL hikers wont do this.
good idea!
The ground and movement from the body lying on top of the poncho tarp may make holes or tears of the poncho used as a groundsheet.
@@MB4msc You can use the same 1,0 dyneema on your poncho/tarp floor thats already used on UL tents. I have used the lighter 0,75 dyneema and even that has holded up fine.
Yea dude I get the idea of super ultra light but I just can’t do it. Got my base weight to 9 with a duplex and that’s as far as I’m willing to go. Great video man , confirmed to me that I’ll never be in that category.
Always done heavy ruck sacks. But I’ve been getting into lightweight. Im almost down below 10 pounds with my gear but my sleeping bag is holding me back I don’t have the money for one of these expensive quilts any suggestions for a budget lightweight option Also love the Chanel man keep it up
I use a full sized heavy poncho. It's a perfectly good tarp or hammock or rain jacket. Takes care of a lot of business. The extremely lightweight materials are what screws up ponchos.
"Today on Naked and Afraid we're going extreme light weight hiking". Haha
I do have a couple friends who've been on naked and afraid, but it's not for me personally! They enjoyed the experience though
How about a waist pack overnight or multi day trip.
That would be fun! I've thought about it for sure, maybe this year I can give it a try
@ that would be awesome. The owner of gossamer gear used a 3L pack to do a multi day but I believe he was supported with food carrys
If you aren’t comfortable with what you carry, it just doesn’t matter what your pack weight is. I can’t say I’ve ever bragged on my base weight, I have bragged on my experiences. Still, it’s good information to absorb.
Great video 🙂👍
Finding something else Lighter later than something you already bought. It’s such a terrible feeling. 😭💀
😔😔 Ain't that the truth . . .
Tip: lose body fat. If you’re at an unhealthy weight, having a 5lb backpacking base weight won’t help much if you’re 20+ lbs overweight.
Exactly, physical fitness will be more important. But it's easier to spend money on UL stuff vs getting in excellent shape.
Thank you for motivation (music its just wow thanks)
THX, great advice😍
That advice on the Poncho Tarp surprised me.
Rockfront rain hoodie is another great rain jacket; more durable than frogg toggs and way cheaper than Visp but same weight.
the next step is Omega Hyperlight
Don't take this seriously I was just playing around with how someone might get stupid about ultralight. It might be fun to try it as a short trip though
tips and tricks:
hike in the summer
hike at night, sleep during the day to minimize the need for insulation and sun protection
bring no food, eat during "resupply", you can go three days without eating without significant health issues, that's 90 miles minimum that require no food
if food carries go beyond 90 miles drink olive oil from a ziplock. or peanut butter if you are weak.
don't filter, take the risk. carry no water. most water carries are less than 30 miles, you can go one day without water without significant health issues.
study the map beforehand so you don't need to bring navigation with you
use leaves as toilet paper, use a stick as a trowel (but you had better actually dig a proper cat hole or I will find you)
sleep in all of your clothes (if necessary)
no phone, if you need to make a call borrow someone else's
gear list:
minimal set of clothes
some form of insulation
some form of rain protection
Sos emergency bivy functions as dual shelter and sleeping bag
tiny compass (yes even now you should have one)
ultralight flashlight and whatever minimal batteries you need, keep it 30 lumens or less
credit card to pay for resupply
dcf bag to put stuff in
Leave everything else at home. Yes I mean everything.
if you don't count worn weight I'll bet this could be less than half a pound
Is this light enough yet?
The Six Moon Gatewood Cape works better than lighter poncho tarps, and I do use mine for some short trips, but even in that case the lightest tarp plus the lightest rain gear is going to be a similar weight or less.
I haven't tried one but always kinda figured I'd be too tall for a gatewood! Then add on that my larger 7x9 tarp and many rain jackets are lighter than it... And again I think I'll leave the poncho tarp behind.
Sir, you offer excellent videos & copious explanation re your lightweight gear. Impressive. I think about forest and desert "users" (humans) in the Western US, that are out for a week, weekend or a few days, some would go longer, like you. I've been in the Sierras, Tetons, Wind Rivers and many ranges in the West - July - Aug - and mosquito (protection) is required, tent (sealed) & head net often. Into Sept. cooler weather, bugs abate. In the desert, at times, gnats can be prominent . Often if I was off trail, & if scrambling scree fields, boulders, hard snow, it was safer to have a light mountaineering boot and ice axe. Also some sort of knife, good tweezers; sliver, burr or spine (cactus).It's an art what you are doing, testing and then using viable light weight gear for mountains and desert. I'm certain many benefit from it - but please personal safety is always paramount, don't damage feet, ankles, knees with inadequate foot gear. And over time, the quality of the experience (not the quantity) will be so much more dominant in your travel planning.
Hey! odd question, but what is that purple hoodie you wear in the intro? looks sweet!!!
It's a melanzana wind stopper fleece jacket
I am a seamstress. So am planning on making my own wind pants, etc. and I like my current pack so much, that I am planning on saving the tiny bit of frame that is in it to make my own design. Or I may make one totally with no frame. We shall see once this one wears out. I have already made my own pack bags. But I use three. Food bag, diddy bag. And I like to put my stove and cookpot in one. ( don’t care for cold dinner. Ok with cold coffee and breakfasts , but want a warm dinner. ). I think I am going to make my own rain jacket and seam seal it as well. I have an idea of what I want, and cannot find one like that. At least not in the weight range I need. I have not decided what to do about tent. Don’t like my current big Agnes. Not bad quality, but zippers are always getting caught up, it’s a bummer to set up in rain or wind, and I would like to get my weight down. I know I want a two person trekking pole tent. But the expense is so outrageous. I wish there were patterns for trekking pole tents out there. I can seam seal it myself.
Bro great advice, you should bring back the handpainted post cards for Patreon Members.
Going ultralight makes me ultra happy on trail, God bless.
Alot of it has to do with confidence personally I'm all for it
Is there a resource for learning to make our own gear? Thank you. Canyon
Learnmyog on RUclips is great, focused on backpacking gear tutorials and has a website with patterns and detailed instruction to go along with videos
On Rain jackets: Look into dyneema rain jackets, waterproof however not breathable. I believe you can get down to three ounces with a dyneema rain jacket.
I've done a 6 and a half pound base weight gear load. I could likely get under 5 and a half however I would have to not bring my phone or cook system.
MYOG!
To go super ultralight, you just need to wear your tent like a cape and your quilt like an apron. That way, when you weigh your pack for base weight, it’s gonna be sub 5 pounds.
And I am only 12 years old.
I'm at about 12 lbs. I could cold soak to save a little more. But , I don't think I can risk going lower with less back up warmth.
My best was 11 lbs base for 3 days. Not super but was a whole lot better than the 35-40 lbs of my buddies. they were amazed. Only ate pemmican
I am sitting at 3.50 oz😂.Not kidding.
All those ancient Icemen we find were just ultralight backpackers weren’t they.
What would you consider an ultralight weight for winter hiking and camping?
Winter is tough as conditions are so harsh in some places. Last winter for instance I lived in a place where it was -20 degrees for a couple weeks. Then in other places winter is pretty mild and you could easily do it with a sub 10lb kit. So that variance makes a blanket statement on what is ultralight difficult, and ultimately I'm not sure I'd be concerning myself as much with a number outside of the three seasons as the risk is so much higher. Do what makes the most sense to your safety, but in the same way you could apply the UL principals of being critical with gear and what is truly needed. Mountaineers on multi day, fast, expeditions would be a good place to maybe look further
Joe sighting at 6:35!
What quilt or bag might you suggest?
Oh, you think you get a quilt at these weights? Lol fool....
Just kidding
He's got the Enlightened Equipment Enigma listed in the description.
I have found Hammock Gear quilts to be light and reasonably priced
I like enlightened equipment, usually using the enigma with down insulation, 950fp, and generally 7D/10D combo for fabrics. The temp rating depends on the trip but most often I use a 30.
Zpacks I think makes a slightly lighter quilt which is comparably warm, but EE has more fun options