The Gear You WANT vs The Gear You NEED

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  • Опубликовано: 8 июн 2024
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Комментарии • 312

  • @MyLifeOutdoors
    @MyLifeOutdoors  7 месяцев назад +4

    Check out Garage Grown Gear: geni.us/m2tzeVo
    *The Backpacking Gear I use:*
    Zpacks Arc Haul: geni.us/3pBiA
    ZenBivy Light Bed: geni.us/5319bg
    BA ZOOM UL Pad: geni.us/gprgMe
    Duplex Zip Tent: geni.us/Agxnca
    Plex Solo Tent: geni.us/ahG1KjD
    Toaks 650 ML Pot: geni.us/yfCYqCh
    Pocket Rocket Deluxe: geni.us/3MrUHA
    BearVault 450: geni.us/qJ0A
    Hilltop Food Bag: geni.us/nh21IP
    Bogler Trowel: geni.us/evIJfd
    Farpointe Alpha Hoodie: geni.us/EGWb9nd
    Zpacks Rain Jacket: geni.us/7BYPG
    Gossamer Gear Umbrella: geni.us/Sd687
    Nitecore NU25 UL: geni.us/3ThMg
    Nitecore NB10000: geni.us/uVqBML
    Helinox Chair Zero: geni.us/Zremfj

  • @pilzpop
    @pilzpop 10 месяцев назад +380

    A good little tip is to put a little piece of masking tape on every piece of gear you take. When you use it, remove the tape. Anything with tape when you get home should be re-evaluated. Never skimp on safety gear, true for any activity/sport/recreation

    • @ianmartin1947
      @ianmartin1947 10 месяцев назад

      Nice good call

    • @martinerhard8447
      @martinerhard8447 10 месяцев назад +6

      safety gear and conditional gear like e.g. a rainjacket

    • @wolfeadventures
      @wolfeadventures 10 месяцев назад +23

      To many grams of tape.

    • @teemustolt5107
      @teemustolt5107 10 месяцев назад +23

      ​@@wolfeadventuresjust drill holes in the tape!

    • @juhanilaho4967
      @juhanilaho4967 10 месяцев назад

      Excellent tip, thanks!

  • @BackcountryTreks
    @BackcountryTreks 10 месяцев назад +255

    I find it hilarious how many people get upset about a total strangers gear choices. I never knew there were so many “experts” out there.🤣 Great video Steven!🍻

    • @rigorevangelista9875
      @rigorevangelista9875 10 месяцев назад +17

      They should be more concerned about their own weight, and not be burdened by the weight of others 😂

    • @jlinwinter
      @jlinwinter 10 месяцев назад +2

      @@rigorevangelista9875 yah you get this with bike packers who like to spend $3000 to shave 15g from their bike, but don't realize they can get that 15g back by not drinking another beer.

    • @ChristianB-hy7es
      @ChristianB-hy7es 10 месяцев назад +1

      Right? The vast majority of my gear was second hand cheap or free BUT my actual backpack was over 500$ because I am a short king that carry’s ALOT of weight and needed a specific backpack that could managed the weight (I had a MEC backpack straps rip off because I was carrying to heavy of a load once) and be able to adjust accordingly to my short stature. I have never regretted that purchase!

    • @lastspud7030
      @lastspud7030 9 месяцев назад +1

      every one is an expert ... 😅

    • @davidbaer4388
      @davidbaer4388 8 месяцев назад

      @@jlinwinter obviously, you don’t have the proper appreciation for beer!

  • @Illyrian5
    @Illyrian5 10 месяцев назад +78

    Excellent video.
    I think there should be one more category when you go through your gear at the end of a trip - the "my day would suck if I didn't have this and needed it" pile. Here's my context: I use camping gear daily because I am a nanny who relies on transit and I need to be able to carry everything that the kids and I will need that day. Over the years, I've accumulated a collection of small useful things that don't weigh much and I rely on always having them with me. Examples: different types of tape, folding scissors, extra hair elastics, S-clips, 8mL Nalgene of dish soap, nail clippers, small ball of cotton yarn. They are the things that you might need just a little bit of to make your day go smoothly, so it's worth the small amount of extra weight.

    • @__cypher__
      @__cypher__ 10 месяцев назад

      Talk less. Say more

    • @noodlesthe1st
      @noodlesthe1st 9 месяцев назад

      You have to evaluate how much it would suck. I don't even bring a first aid it because I can tough it a day or two to hike out.
      As a nanny I think these items probably do improve your QOL a ton but you're also not hiking 10h with this stuff on your back and if your pack is a couple pounds heavier then that doesn't have the same impact as someone hiking. But if you're looking after kids and don't have a solution to one of these problems then toughing it out isn't really an appropriate solution for you.
      To me the problem with "my day would suck if I didn't have this and needed it" pile is that you can throw an absolute ton of stuff in there for scenarios that *might* happen because you never know but realistically you're better off saving the weight because one sucky night where you learn your lesson to bring that one item isn't worth every hike with more weight.

  • @nedanother9382
    @nedanother9382 10 месяцев назад +6

    As i put my kit together yesterday (unfortunatly life dictated that my hiking season was aug and sept this year) i asked my wife the same question...what do i need? My physics inspired brain said "i have stay warm, fed, and watered" thats the who statement...i dont need to be clean, smell good, or have any of the comfrts of home...cause im not there.
    And you won't stay dry in the rain no matter what you spend...warm only is the goal. How you get there is on you but those three things are what it boils down too. Peace all. Dare to push your comfort zone. Its rewarding not terrible.

  • @morganjones133
    @morganjones133 10 месяцев назад +27

    I like to get home and have 3 piles, “Used”, “Not Used” and also “Would have helped keep me safe if it all went to shit” as an example, I often don’t use my first aid kit, the small bit tenacious tape in case my tent fails, the 4 water purification tablets in case my filter fails or the SOL emergency Bivy ( which I only take on day hikes). Wouldn’t leave home without them though. There are other examples in my pack, not a lot, but there should be pile for “didn’t use it but shouldn’t leave it behind” GPS with sos button and whistle also fall into this category

    • @noodlesthe1st
      @noodlesthe1st 9 месяцев назад

      The reason I don't carry a first aid kit and carry a trauma kit instead is because a small cut isn't a big deal and I can improvise something for a larger cut even but an arterial bleed and I'll be dead before I'm off the phone with 911.
      Unless temps are freezing at night what are the odds of the filter suddenly failing (keep it in your sleeping bag anyway then) and what are the odds of needing to overnight from a day hike because a rescue can't get out to you especially if you have a gps with SOS. Carry what makes you feel safe but also evaluate what you would do in a situation in which you don't have that item.

  • @gman963
    @gman963 10 месяцев назад +72

    I agree with the necessity list with one exception: I would add light source to it. I've never camped without having a light, but it probably wouldn't be a fun time. Might be an interesting experiment.

    • @nedanother9382
      @nedanother9382 10 месяцев назад +16

      Thats funny, i figured for my old ass, i can barely get to "dark time" any more. We decided if you hiking above tree line you dont have to wait till dark. Only pee time do i find a need for light. And its less than an ounce if you doo it right. Let there be light
      Edit: the light is less than an ounce....not the pee. I should write for the news

    • @skippylippy547
      @skippylippy547 10 месяцев назад +1

      @@nedanother9382 I don't need a light to pee.

    • @TheJohnreeves
      @TheJohnreeves 10 месяцев назад +2

      ​@@skippylippy547you just have to keep your empty water bottle in the tent.

    • @skippylippy547
      @skippylippy547 10 месяцев назад +2

      @@TheJohnreeves
      I understand what you mean by having an empty bottle in the tent.
      I've never been able to pee in a bottle in a small one-man tent without peeing all over myself. 🤪
      So I get up and pee outside.

    • @dannynye1731
      @dannynye1731 10 месяцев назад +1

      The trick is to know your gear and pack it consistently. I’ve only carried a candle since 1978. The same year that I gave up tents

  • @richardmbarrelmaker
    @richardmbarrelmaker 10 месяцев назад +68

    Excellent video, the 'need' versus 'want' debate is wider than just backpacking

    • @pattibrown1809
      @pattibrown1809 10 месяцев назад +1

      For sure!

    • @MaeckesPlanB
      @MaeckesPlanB 10 месяцев назад +1

      "Excellent video"
      Yeah, true, if this is your first video you're watching regarding backpacking. It all has been said before. There's nothing new to learn.

  • @mwaynem
    @mwaynem 8 месяцев назад +1

    Decades ago Ray Jardine wrote an article on how to backpack light. He had just completed the Adirondack trail. One thing that stood out was all gear that he made himself for pennies on the dollar. Ray is no fool he is one of the most accomplished climbers to ever climb in Yosemite. You don't do that with cheap gear and live. So if he cut corners to save weight he didn't throw safety out the door. He was pointing out the hypocrisy in the backpacking industry. Alot depends on the climate and terrain as to what is necessary and what you you can get by without. I like that you always look for a balance between needs and comfort. Thanks for sharing.

  • @craigrobertson6082
    @craigrobertson6082 10 месяцев назад +8

    Good info. To me there are three truths about backpacking. 1. Mors Kochanski said the more knowledge you have, the less gear you need...so never stop learning. 2. Any fool can be uncomfortable...learn what you need and what works for you, never mind the 'fashionable' stuff. 3. Scientifically you can only carry about 30% of your body weight for any prolonged period...so start there with the weight and scale it up or down with your needs and the conditions.

    • @pirogenpaddler660
      @pirogenpaddler660 10 месяцев назад +2

      Ad point 3: So just gain some body weight and heavy gear isn't a problem to worry about anymore... Easy. 😅

  • @niceguy191
    @niceguy191 10 месяцев назад +12

    It's taken me years to get my pack (all in) to be under 50lbs and I'm super happy about that! There are some factors like gear you bring because of the areas you go or the people you're with that will affect what's important to take and what's not. The areas we frequent can get to freezing at night even in the summer, so you end up needing a few extra bits to stay warm and more fuel to heat up food and a heavier sleeping system, but it's worth it to enjoy those areas.

    • @Squirrel200
      @Squirrel200 10 месяцев назад +1

      100% right on 🍻🍻 60+ and What kept me alive before I'm gonna keep using If it ain't broke don't fix it And why the ______ Spend thousands of dollars To be part of the Ultralight club. If I was walking the pacific coast trail then #1 I would need money #2 lighter game will be more convenient but not necessary! My sleep system is the military system it's big and heavy but I sleep warm And the whole night.🎉🎉🎉 191 Glad to see someone else with common sense God bless you and yours🙏 ps In the military in the pack is not light ! they just tell you to Suck it up and toughen up "butter cup".

  • @SecurityCraftsman
    @SecurityCraftsman 10 месяцев назад +4

    I love the mindset on this one. I just came back from the Boy Scouts of America National Jamobree, which was 10 days of camping. As I was unpacking my duffle the other day, I was noticing a few things. I had 3 long sleeve jackets/pullovers that I had never used, a pair of rubber boots, a bunch of rope, 3 pairs of pants, and 1 pair of shorts. None of it I touched. there were a bunch of other things as well. I think I'm going to really start noting what I didn't use since I'm mostly to the point anymore. There's nothing I don't seem to have as I've geared up over the years but plenty I don't need.

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад +2

      I’m the worst at this when I’m not backpacking. My wife makes fun of how “prepared” I am.

  • @danielfegley2735
    @danielfegley2735 10 месяцев назад +1

    Well done I appreciate the change and honesty

  • @whistlepigoutdoors
    @whistlepigoutdoors 10 месяцев назад +5

    Great reminder. I started doing the same thing after each trip. I go through my gear and try to eliminate things I don't use. There are still some items that I have carried for many trips that I am just not ready to give up. The older I get, the less I want to carry.

  • @WalkingDevon
    @WalkingDevon 10 месяцев назад +2

    Great advice. As you mentioned, I've learned a lot just by going "did I use this?" when I got home. Over the years this becomes easier to remember as you pack, I take very little with me now and I'm so grateful to not carry stuff that I don't need anymore.

  • @mephisto8101
    @mephisto8101 10 месяцев назад +2

    I have an google sheet list for my kayaking gear. When I prepare for a trip, I can consider all items with their respective weight.
    There is stuff I absolutely need for each trip, there is stuff I want to try out or test. And there is "mission critical" stuff, which might never getting used, but can lead to a cancellation of the trip. Certain kind of meds, safety gear, repair kit, emergency dry cloths.
    Because it is an online sheet and offline available on the phone, I can write on it even during the trip.
    And doing a short recap and lessons learned leads to a much faster learning curve.

  • @hyperboreanforeskin
    @hyperboreanforeskin 10 месяцев назад +2

    ive done the ultra heavy, cheap miltary surplus camping. brought a bunch of extras, stuck in the 2 is 1, 1 is none mindset. once i became more experienced, i realized if you are 3 days or less from civilization, you technically need nothing but the clothes on your back. youll be miserable, but youll survive. now add the bear minimum, (tarp, quilt, pad, food and water) and youll be comfortable and be able to hike longer see more and enjoy it more.

  • @ukeleleladysadie86
    @ukeleleladysadie86 9 месяцев назад +1

    I need a packing list and video of the family camp trip! I pack my whole car for a weekend camp trip with my 2 kids and husband!

  • @theamazingjay161
    @theamazingjay161 10 месяцев назад

    The retrospective after a hike is so obvious, yet mindblowing! Definetly going to do that and separate gear that I used from balast I just carried around.

  • @Staypuff777
    @Staypuff777 10 месяцев назад +1

    Great idea about going through what you used and did not use. Makes so much sense but I have never formally done it.

  • @mendyviola
    @mendyviola 10 месяцев назад +1

    I do the same thing: the used/not used pile. Two categories of things I always take even if I don’t use them is a first aid kit and some basic tools & repair items.

  • @capedmarauder
    @capedmarauder 10 месяцев назад +1

    Another great clip :) I also camp with my children and so I end up with a combination of 'UL' stuff that I've bought and then more surplus/military type stuff that I don't mind them dragging through a forest :) That said, I've ended up with the same mix on my solo hikes - some stuff 'milspec' and durable, and other stuff the coolest, 1g gadget from Japan. One thing I've started doing to improve my kit list is I make little videos while I'm hiking with notes about "Left hip pouch is irritating me, sleeping mat too short" etc. which (when I play them back!) helps on my later trips.

  • @paulreineck8589
    @paulreineck8589 10 месяцев назад

    This is something that I have done for mountaineering but don't do as much for regular backpacking. It's a good reminder to continue to dial in the system.

  • @Jarrych83
    @Jarrych83 10 месяцев назад

    I'm only doing a little camping each year and hoping to get backpacking with my now 7 year old in the next year or two. She's getting very comfortable hiking a couple miles with rolling hills and enjoyed car camping trips with nice stuff, but not much extra. I think a great example of this is our tent. It's a stormbreak 3 and, with footprint, fly, and stakes, is probably around 7 lbs. But the fly and footprint are fast-pitch friendly and has a bunch of extra options built in. For two people, if we keep the rest of the weight down pretty well, it won't be too bad split between two packs. We have reasonably light sleeping bags and cookware to balance things out and won't be planning high mile days, that's for sure. So for getting into it, it's definitely about finding a good balance based on your intentions/goals and making sure the bases are covered, then going from there

  • @rebawek8466
    @rebawek8466 10 месяцев назад +2

    Love doing business with Garage Grown Gear AND appreciate you addressing mindset - bottom line, let’s get out on the trail!

  • @jjhikespa3600
    @jjhikespa3600 10 месяцев назад

    I love camping because I can take exactly what my family needs. I have a child with special needs who is sensitive to temperature changes and noise among others things and I have spent years trying to figure out the right set up for us. My camping gear list probably would include more “luxuries” than most but since we go camping on our vacation time, my priorities are fun, safety and creating lasting family memories. We are working toward a month long car trip similar to yours. I look forward to more car camping videos. I would be very interested to see what made your list and how you packed it all up for your family. Thanks!

  • @trailsandbeers
    @trailsandbeers 7 месяцев назад

    For me the camping part of a trip is just staying dry and not dying while taking sleep breaks, I have a bivy, tarp-poncho and sleeping bag that weigh combined 2.2lb, and I use a 20 liter pack. The only comfort I need is a small light pack for easy hiking.
    The advantage is that I mostly hike in Europe and the Swiss Alps and am never more than 48 hours from passing through somewhere to buy food and I can usually get water easily in the mountains with just the Salomon soft flask filter so carry minimal food, no cooking gear and only 1/2 -1 liter water max.
    I do take poles, head torch, shit kit, first aid kit, camera gear, wallet, phone, keys, chargers but is not too heavy and fits in a small pack.

  • @Choccytube
    @Choccytube 10 месяцев назад +1

    I would just add one thing that I do, and that is I start my checklist before I go, I get the bag packed, take everything out and ask "do I really NEED this", then whittle down my pack until I have what I need, this saves more weight than any light gear I purchase. I light source is also essential, even if you start your hike early morning.

  • @eric55406
    @eric55406 10 месяцев назад +1

    Per your suggestions, I just bought some stuff from Garage Grown Gear and can attest they do a great job; fast shipping and great customer service. I will be ordering from them again when I'm ready to upgrade some of my items.

  • @davidfuentes3594
    @davidfuentes3594 9 месяцев назад

    Excellent channel, provides very good information. Now, it depends on what you need and where you're going, as well as how long you're planning to stay - that's what you'll need for your trip. For example, I'm from Costa Rica, and here, most of the mountains are of a very high level. There isn't much paramo; the majority of them involve ascents of over 5 kilometers over muddy terrain with a lot of vegetation around and obstacles on the way. Additionally, it's very likely to rain at any time of the year, so going with the lightest gear is important because what goes up must come down, and coming down can be more dangerous than the ascent. Greetings, pura vida!

  • @skippylippy547
    @skippylippy547 10 месяцев назад +2

    Great video.
    I'm with you. Shed the weight, enjoy the walk outdoors.

  • @lastspud7030
    @lastspud7030 9 месяцев назад +3

    As a "mountain leader" this is the one bit of advice that I would give to any of the guys I take out into the hills.
    I love a new bit of kit but after two trips it comes out of my backpack, but I keep handy. If after two more trips I havent needed it. It gets put away in a storage box once a year I go through the box and either sell the stuff i dont need or donate it to someone who wants it.
    in the group of peopel i walk with we are constantly swapping kit

  • @margaretwandel5660
    @margaretwandel5660 10 месяцев назад +2

    My father, an experienced backpacker, never carried a tent. His sleep system was a sleeping bag, no pad. His favorite packs were Adirondek basket packs. So what you need versus want has changed over the decades.

  • @nai8498
    @nai8498 3 месяца назад

    i love your pace of speech and the intonation you use it makes listening really engaging

  • @GeckoHiker
    @GeckoHiker 10 месяцев назад +1

    I am an ultra-lightweight backpacker who doesn't even use a "backpack". There is no needed gear. All you need is a way to have shelter, get potable water, and create fire. A lot of stuff is just nice to have. My nice-to-haves are protection and a way to charge my cellphone. And maybe a frozen beer for the first night out. My cellphone is weighted down with e-books.

  • @BradyPatterson
    @BradyPatterson 10 месяцев назад

    This was a much needed video in the midst of everyone trying to sell stuff. Everyone does pretty much everything slightly different so reminding people that "you do you" is a solid recommendation.

  • @Oldsparkey
    @Oldsparkey 10 месяцев назад +1

    In the past I did the same as you did but I made 3 piles. I managed to get a system that works for me. Will not say how many years it took to get to this stage since gear is always improving. I still do all three after a trip but the third pile is normally empty.
    Pile 1. Items used all the time.
    Pile 2. Items used now and then.
    Pile 3 , Items not used but taken. Pile 3 was put into storage. Piles 1 and 2 taken on the next trip and again all three steps taken when I got back home. Over time I have managed to get my total weight to 10.41 pounds , Clothing is 3.7 pounds of that and my base weight is 6.71 pounds.
    A short example that helped me cut the base weight. Here in Florida I can get by with light weight clothing and none of the heavy stuff. I hammock camp so the hammock doubles as my chair , lounger and bed. A small titanium wood burning stove , fuel is everywhere. A titanium pot for ( hot water ) cooking freezer bag method.

  • @RandallFPS
    @RandallFPS 10 месяцев назад

    Dude your videos are so awesome. Informative without peppering us with too much. Love it love it love it.

  • @ropersix
    @ropersix 10 месяцев назад +2

    A couple of years ago, I bought an expensive titanium mug, thinking I could use it on my stove (when all I want is coffee). Turns out, because of the double wall, that doesn't work (at least not efficiently enough). And after using it as just a mug for a few trips, I decided I liked by very old, very cheap plastic cup better (because of its sturdier handle). And it's only 1oz heavier. So while I will continue to try and lighten my load, I will also keep in mind that sometimes, the old cheap thing is just fine.

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад

      Sometimes it is!

    • @DNGR369
      @DNGR369 9 месяцев назад +1

      Don't forget to keep green and reduce your use of single-use or short-life materials like petroleum plastics. Double walled I think is more for the camp site rather than on a trail. I personally prefer using vessels that improve the contents inside and TI is a flavourless material which is cool. Happy trails!

  • @YeoYolo
    @YeoYolo 4 месяца назад

    I like being a pack rat... and my 17mile hike into the woods had some sholder discomfort, but nothing a small break every hour would help. I did take to much, but i also like the freedom of having 150ft of paracord to bushcraft with or a hatchet/machete to harvest wood or carve with.

  • @DubTDub
    @DubTDub 9 месяцев назад +1

    Always great videos, always great recommendations!! 👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻👍🏻

  • @Muhlenburger
    @Muhlenburger 10 месяцев назад +1

    I’m onboard with Garage Grown Gear, a great company!

  • @Eunegin23
    @Eunegin23 7 месяцев назад

    Thank you! That's advice for life, not just for hiking.
    The first 20 years I packed too much and brought stuff I never used. Took a while to get everything adjusted...
    And: there's a cultural factor (European-American family here...).

  • @monicakim9143
    @monicakim9143 5 месяцев назад

    I often take notes on my trips. I log the food i ate each day, temps, and gear notes.
    I am not an ultra lighter by any means but I do normally bring many extras into the woods and that has helped me really reduce my pack weight even without purchasing ultralight gear.
    Also love GGG!

  • @cassidychaplin272
    @cassidychaplin272 10 месяцев назад +1

    This is such a good mindset to have around purchasing things in general too. I always ask myself: do I NEED this, do I need this, or do I want this? And when it comes to splurge buys, I buy it if I can't stop thinking about it for a while and I have the cash saved up. Never with a credit card.

  • @bohunker1
    @bohunker1 10 месяцев назад +2

    Order of priority in wilderness survival: Shelter, heat (warmth), water, food

  • @ryimscaith1593
    @ryimscaith1593 9 месяцев назад

    I agree with the constant re-planning. I've done that myself over the years, and as a hiker/camper/survivalist/prepper, I went in stages.
    My Get Home bag weighs 1.2 lbs. It sits in my car for emergencies, and is only taken out once a year for inspection.
    My Bug Out bag weighs 10 lbs. Again, only taken out once a year for inspection.
    My Hiking Bag only weighs 3.7 lbs. I don't need a lot for a day hike, though the kit is packed for 72 hrs worth.
    My Camping Gear weighs in a 58.3 lbs. Most of the main mass is the UP-2 Tent and tent stove, but, I admit, at 51 years old, I take a lot of comfort items. I am NOT going camping without coffee.
    My SHTF Gear weighs in at 62.9 lbs. A bit of the camping comfort gear is replaced by survival gear ... okay, by a LOT of survival gear. With this pack I can survive anywhere, any season, for any length of time. It makes allowances to either travel constantly, or build and farm.
    I know I went a little off topic there, but my main point IS your topic. You have to balance between Need/Want in any of them. I've seen Bug Out bags that weigh more than my SHFT bag, and campers that have well over 100 lbs of gear (walking in, not with campers or ATVs). It also comes down to what you can carry, and how mobile you're going to be. I used to carry a 60 lbs pack with another 20 lbs of gear when in the military and would cover 20 miles in a day. These days, that would kill me, lol. Though I'm betting I could still cover 15 miles with my SHFT gear if Ihad to, though 10 seems more reasonable to me. I usually only cover 5 miles when camping.

  • @davidhyde9310
    @davidhyde9310 10 месяцев назад

    I can say I agree...you CAN find light gear without breaking the bank. My current base wt. is 10.4 to 11.1 lbs, depending on which tarp shelter I take. That is without using (or even owning, for that matter) one single item made from DCF, or Ultra fabric...and without a goose down anything. Period. In fact, the MOST expensive item I have, currently, is the 25 litre Osprey pack I just bought...which was priced at $125 (I only paid $100, on sale, though).
    I have been backpacking for decades...and I have long since learned what to leave behind. The hard way. As well, I have now figured out a few tweaks to my gear, which allowed me to go from about 16.5 lbs...to the number mentioned above.
    It CAN be done - but you have to learn by experience (usually)...and give up "packing your fears".

  • @wongobongo
    @wongobongo 10 месяцев назад

    This is a good way to approach your everyday carry as well.

  • @jamesantonywhitehead2814
    @jamesantonywhitehead2814 10 месяцев назад +3

    Great to watch an informative, decision making video...
    I have a similar issue with my friends cheap vs new expensive equipment (waiting 3-5 years for the price to come down) purchased a supermarket tent for £35 where 5 years ago it was £150 I use it twice a year..
    Also the idea of solo camping vs cooperating group..

  • @canadianehbignorth7325
    @canadianehbignorth7325 2 месяца назад

    My packs almost always 30-35lbs... but I only hike so that I can then camp. lol. I want the chair, the hammock, eggs in the mornings, the whole bit. I'll turn a 35km hike into a 5day ordeal. I spent 13days doing a one way 162km canoe trip that people have raced "their and back" in something like 36hours. lol It's the little pleasures. Enjoy it while you can.

  • @andrewb4984
    @andrewb4984 10 месяцев назад

    Another insightful and well thought out video. Your content continues to be top notch!

  • @TracySwenson
    @TracySwenson 10 месяцев назад +1

    It is a difficulty for me to leave the 'Just in Case' behind. I like the process of coming back and separating into what I didn't need pile. I'll give 'er a try. But I am 30-35 pounds nearly all the time for a 3-4 night trip. And the main stays of my gear are new so I'm stuck with it for a few years. Thx...

  • @gregmortonoutdoors
    @gregmortonoutdoors 10 месяцев назад

    Thanks for mentioning the SMD Lunar Solo. That's my go to 1P tent and IMO, it's the best for cost to weight ratio. I ran into several people that had the GG The One when I hiked the AT and at least 60% of them didn't like the tent.
    People shouldn't get too wrapped around base weight. I recommend checking your pack weight will all consumables, 4 days of food, and 2L of water. That is more realistically what your trail weight will be and how it feels/rides is what matters.

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад

      GG has great affordable packs…I agree the Lunar Solo is the best affordable tent out there.

  • @highdesertdrew1844
    @highdesertdrew1844 8 месяцев назад

    Having a system to eliminate unused/unneeded gear is really important. Unlike trying to remember, I just keep checklists. I try to keep a bag/bags packed, so if the opportunity to go comes up, I'm gone. Sometimes when I am getting ready for a really big trip, I have a tendency to take a bunch of garbage I don't need and end up never using. I find that having my bag packed at least a week ahead of time, and a printout of my checklist right there gives me the peace of mind to know I'm packed, and not have to worry about the good idea fairy showing up at 10pm the night before I leave to screw up my plans.

  • @gefginn3699
    @gefginn3699 10 месяцев назад +1

    Great post my friend. Stay strong, free and healthy.

  • @arc3944
    @arc3944 10 месяцев назад +1

    Ok I feel I can weigh in on this because I have quite the unusual kit that might add a new perspective to backpacking. For gear I have a steel water bottle from s’well my backpack is a 16 L trail running backpack from Columbia I carry my knives two folders and a fixed blade I don’t carry much food (because I tend to find foods that pack down well) I sleep on a decathlon foam mat and I have one change of clothes toiletries and a first aid kit. In the end it weighs less than 5kg usually but I don’t really stress about weight
    Edit: and I wear a north face windbreaker (and a hoodie if its sub ten degrees)

  • @danadess
    @danadess 10 месяцев назад +2

    May surprise some of you, but I can’t count the number of times I’ve wished I had a bear canister, especially when surrounded by short trees or pines where I couldn’t easily hang a bag. Several times I’ve had to pass over awesome camp sites and was forced to hike extra miles just to reach a shelter or a place where I could put my food. Just goes to show that needed gear differs for everyone.

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад

      Not surprised at all. Did you see this video about bear hangs? ruclips.net/video/zVyDzDtU5-U/видео.html

  • @TheSiemek
    @TheSiemek 10 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you for adding info about the weight in kilograms!
    As usual the video is great and real made me think about my choices.

  • @uga.d4173
    @uga.d4173 10 месяцев назад

    Very thoughtful video!

  • @chrisvmazer9692
    @chrisvmazer9692 10 месяцев назад

    Very interesting video (and thank you for including kg), I was on a hike a few days ago and noticed that I carried a few things that I didn't use

  • @tomtimmons5334
    @tomtimmons5334 10 месяцев назад

    I always enjoy your content. Thank You.

  • @murpesx
    @murpesx 10 месяцев назад +2

    I was a little skeptical of that lightweight Melly alternative, but man, you have that thing on in almost every video. It must be really well made, definitely field tested!

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад +2

      I love it. It’s not for everyone but I’m planning on picking up another one because I love it so much

  • @kristianronne
    @kristianronne 10 месяцев назад

    Thanks for a great video, and thanks to all of you that are commenting with further advice... #sharingiscaring What are the black boxes that you pack into your car... looks awesome. Any tips from my European friends on this??

  • @robertjackson1407
    @robertjackson1407 10 месяцев назад

    Thank you 😊

  • @peterisaksson9915
    @peterisaksson9915 10 месяцев назад

    Great vid!

  • @MikeIsCannonFodder
    @MikeIsCannonFodder 7 месяцев назад

    If you have something you used last trip but not this trip, do you do best 2 out of 3 or do you generally treat the latest trip as most accurate?

  • @lhtd
    @lhtd 9 месяцев назад

    this advise is so worthy also for everydary life

  • @NealBenson
    @NealBenson 10 месяцев назад

    Thanks for the video

  • @Mr.DsBackyard
    @Mr.DsBackyard 9 месяцев назад

    Great video 👍

  • @tomsitzman3952
    @tomsitzman3952 10 месяцев назад +3

    You said a lot in a few words. My moto is Everything I carry has to serve 2 or more uses. Bulk is a problem on a kayak or bike trip. The equipment you take are not the Tools you need to just survive, But the tools you need to live like a nomad. A nomad carries only what they need to live a comfortable life for years on end. Pick the equipment that will solve the problems for the planned trip. The best tent, stove, sleep system for one trip may be the wrong solution for a different trip. No matter how well you plan your gear list for the time of year, the trip objectives, there will always be something that was never used. The unused raincoat or worse leaving the raincoat home when no rain was in the forecast, and it was five days of unending rain.

    • @wendyandwalter40
      @wendyandwalter40 10 месяцев назад +1

      Agreed on all except multifunction items. In general, multifunction items represent less effective versions of the real deal. I'd rather find the best deal on the most effective item for it's weight than be stuck with a poor replica that does multiple things badly. There are some exceptions, examples of well crafted tools that multi task... But they're limited.

    • @tomsitzman3952
      @tomsitzman3952 9 месяцев назад +1

      Fifty plus years guiding trips and family trips by bike, foot, kayak and canoe have taught me to Think like a nomad. It is all about living a life of balance l of mind body spirit.

  • @michalbike9305
    @michalbike9305 9 месяцев назад

    Biggest challenge is cheap and lightweight backpack which you can take with you to the cabin of the plane. 33 - 40 litres. (And test in nearest shop)

  • @randybrooks6836
    @randybrooks6836 10 месяцев назад +2

    3.44 into the video, and I will say, I agree 100%, but….. and there’s that “but”. A low “base weight” cost a freaking fortune these days. It’s extremely difficult for new hikers to balance base weight vs longevity. My first attempt at the AT was at a base weight of 32 pounds. I didn’t know… I planned a 125 mile hike, and made it 42 miles. A “1 pound tent” is above most new hikers budget, simply because they have no idea if they will even want to do it a second time. By the time you fall in love with it all. You have amassed a fortune in useless gear. “Cottage industry gear” = expensive. It’s a learning curve that most do not understand (and how would they). Just saying…. Your videos are one of the most informative out there, and I wish you continued success!!

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад

      It’s true. UL is only expensive if you already have thousands of dollars worth of perfectly good but heavy gear. It doesn’t cost more persay its just spending the money again feels expensive .

  • @andrewgreen9417
    @andrewgreen9417 9 месяцев назад +1

    I'm currently rethinking camping I'm a army vet and my gear was more like 40lb pack and 75lb kit my youngest is now joining my oldest 5 and 8 in cub scouting and its a major and welcome reset for my methods car to get there folding wagon to site wash\ and sometimes shower facilities. Still working out chair but I use cots and pads for my boys and I and tent with a covered fly over the front for gear. I'm out of my element a. Bit and out of date on gear. What are things you bring that keep your kids camping. And any suggestions to bribe reluctant non camper to join you in nature.

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  9 месяцев назад

      Rethinking older gear can be difficult. Here is a video of a car camping set up I recently put together. Some of this stuff is expensive but its maximizing comfort while still being portable. ruclips.net/video/21rKlJSlGYc/видео.html
      Here is a video I did last year about helping reluctant hikers enjoy camping more: ruclips.net/video/5y5mNFkbdtw/видео.html

  • @joekrusec9066
    @joekrusec9066 10 месяцев назад

    When I was a lad in the early 80’s, my friends and I “needed” to take a getto blaster, and 8 spare D size batteries, hiking. Needless to say no one ever wanted to be the one to carry it😂

  • @Lorito78
    @Lorito78 8 месяцев назад

    "Do I really need this?" is a question everyone should ask oneself every now and then in general ;)

  • @tgilbs
    @tgilbs 10 месяцев назад

    I am a bit of a gear junkie and it's fun to try out new stuff to make backpacking more comfortable. Some of the changes are marginal, while others make a big difference. I bought a lighter pack, so I could bring more comfort items, like a backpacking chair? I bring things I definitely don't need, like a kit to watercolor or simple games, but it makes it more fun so it is worth the extra weight. Deodorant? No. Extra clothes?? I'll be stinky for three days, it'll be fine! I can't get around bringing a bear can and I don't want to spend $600-800 on a super light weight one, so I've just accepted the fact that I will be probably always be carrying 25-30 pounds on trail!

  • @kamilk6807
    @kamilk6807 10 месяцев назад

    thank you for KG conversions

  • @Olyphoto7
    @Olyphoto7 10 месяцев назад

    If you can find it, there’s a great video on lightweight backpacking from Lynn Wheldon (sorry if I misspelled). This video was produced back in the 1990’s when going lightweight required lots of creativity or lots of dollars, the same as today however, we have way more gadgets than were available back then. Most basic gear items are much lighter than the basic ones from that era. My lightest load for a five day trip was 37 pounds, food, water, and everything else. Even with the most basic gear today, a loaded pack could easily weigh less than 30 pounds without breaking the bank.
    Great video Steve, I appreciate and can relate to your messaging.

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад +1

      I’m curious to see the Lynn Wheldob video. Do you have a link?

    • @Olyphoto7
      @Olyphoto7 10 месяцев назад

      @@MyLifeOutdoors I have it on VHS. As far as I know it’s out of production. I will do some research as time permits and let you know what I find out.

    • @Olyphoto7
      @Olyphoto7 10 месяцев назад

      @@MyLifeOutdoors I found it !
      ruclips.net/video/hYxAYj8c5zc/видео.html

  • @greg2141
    @greg2141 10 месяцев назад

    Thanks for the video bro!

  • @BrokenCurtain
    @BrokenCurtain 6 месяцев назад

    The dealing-in process you described could be a bit problematic.
    For example, I'm sure I'd use my portable espresso maker on every trip, but would I need it? Probably not.
    On the other hand, something like a battery pack can come in handy in an emergency situation. And items like band-aids etc. never get used until they're needed.

  • @marianazelada1884
    @marianazelada1884 9 месяцев назад +1

    Great video!!! what is the quilt shown at min 2:56?

  • @thisoldrelic
    @thisoldrelic 10 месяцев назад

    What kind of containers do you use for car camping? I have this want vs. Need with my wife whenever we go camping. The last want vs. Need was blow up kayaks and bikes. We were visiting my parents and I thought we didn't need either. I have a couple of bikes at my parents house to use when we are down there and I didn't think we would use the kayaks. We'll, I talked her out of the bikes and didn't use the kayaks. Primarily because we bought a paddle board when we were down there and had fun with that the entire time. But I still had to lug it all back.

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад

      The ones shown in this video are by Front Runner: geni.us/mymM they are great! I love them.

  • @johnmclean7852
    @johnmclean7852 10 месяцев назад

    How much of your pack out is variable ( don’t know a better term )? Sunscreen vs. Bug spray, water filter vs. Extra water….

  • @deborahshields729
    @deborahshields729 10 месяцев назад +1

    After every trip, while driving home, the passenger takes detailed notes in discussion with the driver, about what we would do differently next time, ranging from Gear to food, location, and so on.

  • @misterawesome5723
    @misterawesome5723 10 месяцев назад +1

    This dude top g.

  • @Harry-Giles
    @Harry-Giles 10 месяцев назад

    Another gem of a video.

  • @Rosenlnk1
    @Rosenlnk1 10 месяцев назад

    I’m a “newbie”….having just accumulated ALL THE STUFF I “think” I need to do my first trip so I hear ya! Whew…..sooo much stuff to take along to support our “creature comforts” while refusing to sleep under a tarp on the ground with all the creepy crawlies……

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад

      It will be interesting to see what you used and what you didn’t. Best of luck and have fun!

  • @user-in3ms3es1d
    @user-in3ms3es1d 10 месяцев назад

    The act of dialing down my gear is an adventure all by itself. As much as my hiking and camping 😂

  • @backpacker3421
    @backpacker3421 10 месяцев назад +3

    I know from experience that unless the trail is very technical or I need to log high mile days, I'm extremely comfortable with a base weight up to 16 lbs (depending on how long I'm out - over 4 days, and I'll shave weight to make room for the extra food).
    So, I look at the trail, determine if I think I need to go lighter than my 16lb luxury packout, and start dropping items - I have a prioritized list.
    I also have two other default pack lists. One is 9.5 lbs for super technical trail or lots of steep climbs. One is 13.1 lbs for less technical, but maybe needing high mileage days.
    But I love my 16lb packout - I take a pillow, a backpacking frying pan, etc etc and my time in camp is SO much nicer for it, and I eat a LOT better.
    For me, that was the dialing in process. Not coming up with one ideal gear load. Coming up with a litany that allows me to customize my load to the trail and the experience I want to have.

  • @lakorai2
    @lakorai2 10 месяцев назад

    Get an x-mid for a great budget UL tent

  • @chrishamilton2527
    @chrishamilton2527 10 месяцев назад +1

    It took me a few thousand years to ‘learn’ to go lighter. It sorta got to be mandatory to have a 22kg rucksack - after all, if it’s not heavy then it ain’t quality.
    Thank goodness I’m over that now; aching / sore joints made me reevaluate my gear. I spent a kings ransom (& a heap of time researching) getting replacement gear - most of which I love (been through a heap of tents / tarps, cook systems and footwear). I finally got sorted when I realised that certain things can benefit by seasonal duplication; lightweight for summer and heavier for winter. Moving away from trusty 11kg canvas tent with steel poles was a ‘wow’ moment as was going from a jamb packed 120 litre Bergen to a 50litre Atom Pack. Transformational.

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад +1

      Yeah…this whole month I’ve been carrying my 35lb 3 year old in a 7lb kid carrier plus a handful of gear…it’s been wearing on my joints. Reminds me when every trip I carried that much weight. Glad those days are over.

    • @chrishamilton2527
      @chrishamilton2527 10 месяцев назад

      @@MyLifeOutdoors he ain’t heavy, he’s my son!

  • @TheTrailDancer
    @TheTrailDancer 10 месяцев назад +1

    Great video bro! As usual! :)

  • @stevemullin1195
    @stevemullin1195 10 месяцев назад

    I don't hike but I do bike tour so I also have space limitations like you do for hiking. I'm finding I want to take all my gear with me like I would for a month long tour when I'm only doing a 1-2 day overnight trip. But I do need to figure out where to store my gear between the 4 bags I'm carrying on my bike. I'm planning a trip next May from Vancouver to SF to meet-up with the AIDS lifecycle ride....which means I have to haul a suitcase for all my gear as they haul it for me on our ride back to LA. I'm using a rollable wheeled 120L duffle bag for this trip which will reside on my bikes rear rack on the month long ride down the coast. Plus it helps when I'm planning on taking amtrak up to Vancouver to start my ride.

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад

      The easiest it’s ever been for me to ditch gear was when I did a 1 night trip 1 day after a 5 night trip. I was so tired of carrying all that gear I stripped my pack down to bare minimum. When times goes by you forget how heavy stuff feels.

  • @MySide
    @MySide 10 месяцев назад

    Another banger!

  • @chrismoore600
    @chrismoore600 10 месяцев назад

    Steve I love your channel even if I don't always agree with somethings. Gear is a personal choice. I'm just a weekend warrior so cost is more important to me over weight. But I do appreciate you for your knowledge and skills. I guess what I'm saying is you just need to present you and ignore to trolls. Thanks for all you do. Cheers

    • @MyLifeOutdoors
      @MyLifeOutdoors  10 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks. I do good ignoring the trolls most days…but sometimes it’s too tempting to respond. 😂. Thanks for watching and supporting the channel.

  • @spidermadness
    @spidermadness 10 месяцев назад

    Афигенное видео, спасибо!

  • @jimshen0308
    @jimshen0308 9 месяцев назад +1

    This is the video we want and we need

  • @Toocurplants
    @Toocurplants 2 месяца назад

    yeah, things you need vary from person to person. So you defo need to think if YOU really need this. You might consider tools and solutions that serve you or your group

  • @countrygirl63baker64
    @countrygirl63baker64 10 месяцев назад

    😊 exactly, and if you wait until there is a sale, you can get the big 3 on sale if you are not too picky.😊