I’m a firm believer in buying a smaller pack. It forces you to make better weight/size choices, and keeps you from packing more than you need because, hey, there’s more room.
Excellent video and logic. Good info without all the extra talk. Love the hydration kit. I just saw it on another video thinking she made it and figured a way to do it but for 15.00 I might just buy it. Sometimes it's just about "better than what you had versus best of the best etc". Doing what you can to be able to make the trip and not just gear swapping because it's a new year...
Great choices! After watching, I know I'm doing okay since my choices are the same or similar to yours. However, I'm 61, so NOT inclined to give up my chair! lol The one switch I haven't made yet is going to an ultra lite backpack, but I'm not thru or section hiking, just hanging out for long weekends, so it's not a priority. If anyone is wondering, the Durston X-Mid Pro 2 tent is my go to choice. I also have the X-Mid 1, but the two person pro is much more room for almost the same weight and size.
Good video! That Gregory is a great pack; they make very good packs and tend to be light in their class of packs (always look for a pack in Sierra; they have AMAZING deals on those). I've got some very light packs (to include a Durston Kakwa 55) but honestly, I keep coming back to my Gregory Zulu 40/55. You'll enjoy that EE quilt, but I'd actually recommend ADDING a Zenbivy Sheet. You can use silicone magentic cable ties to attach it to the Sheet, which will eliminate the draft and let you stick your hands up over your head if you want. You can also get a Zenbivy pillow cover which clips to the Sheet to keep everything in place, and you can stick whatever pillow you'd like into it (or your clothes or whatever). It's a pretty great system. You can save a bunch of money by buying the Light version instead of the UL which isn't all that much lighter. It isn't a bulky item so you probably won't even notice it's in the pack, but you'll absolutely benefit from the better sleep and no drafts. Also, if you don't want to lay on the pad, you can get a full length Sheet. I'll stick a link to the ties I use down below. Water: I love water bladders, but you're right about the downfalls. I went to a Hydrapak Flux bottle (collapsible). I dislike smart water bottles because they generate waste and you really can't clean them. The Hydrapak bottles (many anyway) use a 42mm top, which also means you can screw a filter directly into them. I carry two, and always have one with filter, and the other with a tube like you have. For filters, I've recently found the Pure Clear filter (from a Brit company). They filter everything the Sawyer/Platypus/Hydrapak/Katadyn will but ALSO filter viruses AND will clean up the taste, and this is a 42mm filter system as well, so you can just drop it right into a bottle. For you, and your Arc Haul, I'd recommend the Ultra Flask style with the short tube and bite valve which is designed to work in the front pocket of your pack. ;) a.co/d/072jTaWJ
Crazy! 40 lbs is quite a lot to be lugging around. My packed weight I started out with was around 32/33 lbs with food and water but recently downsized to 24/25 lbs with food and water. I think my comfort limit would be 20 lbs all inclusive since I don’t want to go ultralight.
Great update. You're definitely going to like the lighter setup. I would recommend to recheck how you use your quilt. Experiencing drafts means that you're not using it correctly 😉
I like your style. Chair, ya, I had one very very briefly.. Pain to set up and sunk into the ground.. Couldn't get rid of it fast enough. Coffee cup, HECK YA,! Keep up the good work.
Exciting! I sometimes wonder if I love gear more than actual backpacking! 🤣. If you have the shoulder strap water bottle you aren’t really going to need the straw thingy. I love the Zpacks shoulder strap water bottle holder. You can put a full liter in there but if it’s to tall you can get the slightly smaller Smart Water bottle that comes with a sport cap and just refill it along the way with your other bottles. The other funny thing is I see people get a quilt but then add a liner? Just stick with a sleeping bag at that point. I may try a quilt at some point but really love crawling into a good sleeping bag and getting cozy. Have fun on your hikes and thanks for sharing your load out! Awesome gear!
On my last trip I took the shoulder water pocket off and hung my camera there so it’s an option in case I’m hiking with my camera! I totally hear you on the quilt thing! I’m not sure what I prefer just yet but I think I would have added the sleeping bag liner regardless for the ability to wash it and the weirdness of not loving the sleeping bag material! Thanks man! Appreciate you watching and sharing your thoughts! Always love hearing what people prefer! There’s no one size fits all and most of this is newer stuff so still figuring out what works best for certain trips! (They aren’t all the same ahha)
This is great! Looks like some good swaps there. I'm sure it feels a lot better too. Question for you: do you carry a repair kit of any sort? Tenacious tape, sewing kit, etc? Also, have you changed what you take in terms of clothing? Thanks!
It feels so much better! I do carry a few repair items in my ditty bag and yes! I used to take new clothes for everyday and now I just pack 1 of everything expect socks . I bring 2
Hi! Im curious about tips for backcountry camping with my dog. How do you keep your dogs from getting muddy feet etc on your sleeping bag? And also i worry about my dog damaging my tent if she jumps on the mesh while trying to get out to a sound during the night. I think I would leave the door open and then have her leash attached to my wrist so that it would for sure wake me up when she slipped out. I live in Ireland so there aren't any snakes to worry about coming in the open door, but we do have impressive slugs.
Can you do a post on training for hiking alone and with dogs? Like what do your dogs require? Even setting up a camp, I am a visual learner so it helps more in understanding a system. Maybe even how you pack all those goodies into your bag.
@@ALMAPAGAN if you go to my page I have a packing video and a gear video for the pups! But can definitely do some about hiking and camping alone! And if those 2 don’t cover what you’re looking for let me know :)
@@FMcMtl this was not a full packing video! However I have one on my page! I haven’t made a video about food yet but I’m working on it :) depends on where I’m going for bug spray but it would be in my ditty bag with my toiletries!
People with ultralight base weights don't impress me, as you're all just what I refer to as 'fair weather hikers' who never venture very far from running/flowing water sources and food drops every 50-100km. If I hiked where you hike, I would take a 7L Polish Bread Bag satchel containing everything I need to survive and have a base weight of 10lbs (5kg). Over the years, I've tried to find people who can join me on my multi-week hikes across unforgiving terrain and through tough weather systems, and the only other people I've found with the right skills and equipment are other guys who have also served in the military, and one guy who previously worked for the Australian SES (state emergency service). Every time I come across these ultralight wankers, they're kitted out with flimsy shit that constantly breaks, yet it cost them an entire paycheck.
... Completely different types of hikers ,, Supported or Unsupported .......Todays ultra light hikers are typically long distance hikers that are on trail systems with towns or gear resupply locations every 3-5 days ,, even then ill or un- prepared for unexpected mishaps that can happen in the backcountry ,, i.e.- injury to self or others ,, extreme weather changes ,, problems with trail or terrain that forces rerouting , so more time needed ,, (which means more food , water , fuel and additional clothing for temps not planned for or gear like microspikes /ice axe not planned for ,, etc. ) ... I agree ,, big difference between trail hikers wearing a backpack and Backpackers out on an extended adventure with what you carry with you ...
Hey there. For your pack did you get the pouches added to the hip belt? They look huge on the website but not so much on your pack, if they are the pouches. Thanks and happy trails.🤘🏻🥾⛰️
I did get them added as well as a shoulder pouch! They’re called belt pouch on the website! They’re a must have in my book! Here’s the link: zpacks.com/products/belt-pouch?aff=199
I did not ! I have had so many pairs! Chaco chillos, to these which were super cheap at a random gear store but they broke on my last trip! So I just bought a pair of tevas! Ever changing 😂
I really like my Xero sandals as camp shoes. They are super light, but still have traction and protection for my feet. Great upgrades.
I’m a firm believer in buying a smaller pack. It forces you to make better weight/size choices, and keeps you from packing more than you need because, hey, there’s more room.
Very good point!
1:20 Backpack
5:20 Tent
7:15 Sleeping Bag
8:35 Sleeping Pad
9:55 Rain Cover/Pack Liner
11:11 Seating
12:07 Water Solutions
14:17 Bathroom Duty
15:52 Headlamp
15:28 First Aid Kit
16:18 Sleeping Bag Liner
17:20 Trail Rag
17:40 Food Cozy
17:51 Journal
18:13 Food Bag
18:35 Frogg Toggs, Pillow, cook step up, Sawyer Squeeze, ditty bag, Kula Cloth
19:57 Garmin GPS
20:40 Mug
20:46 Camp Shoes
You are an inspiration! Smaller packs are best, and these are some good tips!
Smaller packs are a game changer for sure
Love seeing all the swaps
Excellent video and logic. Good info without all the extra talk. Love the hydration kit. I just saw it on another video thinking she made it and figured a way to do it but for 15.00 I might just buy it. Sometimes it's just about "better than what you had versus best of the best etc". Doing what you can to be able to make the trip and not just gear swapping because it's a new year...
Totally agree, I’m a big believer in making small tweaks for big results 🫶
I like the concept and execution of this video! Very original and thorough
Truly appreciate it 🥰
Great choices! After watching, I know I'm doing okay since my choices are the same or similar to yours. However, I'm 61, so NOT inclined to give up my chair! lol The one switch I haven't made yet is going to an ultra lite backpack, but I'm not thru or section hiking, just hanging out for long weekends, so it's not a priority. If anyone is wondering, the Durston X-Mid Pro 2 tent is my go to choice. I also have the X-Mid 1, but the two person pro is much more room for almost the same weight and size.
Good video! That Gregory is a great pack; they make very good packs and tend to be light in their class of packs (always look for a pack in Sierra; they have AMAZING deals on those). I've got some very light packs (to include a Durston Kakwa 55) but honestly, I keep coming back to my Gregory Zulu 40/55.
You'll enjoy that EE quilt, but I'd actually recommend ADDING a Zenbivy Sheet. You can use silicone magentic cable ties to attach it to the Sheet, which will eliminate the draft and let you stick your hands up over your head if you want. You can also get a Zenbivy pillow cover which clips to the Sheet to keep everything in place, and you can stick whatever pillow you'd like into it (or your clothes or whatever). It's a pretty great system. You can save a bunch of money by buying the Light version instead of the UL which isn't all that much lighter. It isn't a bulky item so you probably won't even notice it's in the pack, but you'll absolutely benefit from the better sleep and no drafts. Also, if you don't want to lay on the pad, you can get a full length Sheet. I'll stick a link to the ties I use down below.
Water: I love water bladders, but you're right about the downfalls. I went to a Hydrapak Flux bottle (collapsible). I dislike smart water bottles because they generate waste and you really can't clean them. The Hydrapak bottles (many anyway) use a 42mm top, which also means you can screw a filter directly into them. I carry two, and always have one with filter, and the other with a tube like you have. For filters, I've recently found the Pure Clear filter (from a Brit company). They filter everything the Sawyer/Platypus/Hydrapak/Katadyn will but ALSO filter viruses AND will clean up the taste, and this is a 42mm filter system as well, so you can just drop it right into a bottle. For you, and your Arc Haul, I'd recommend the Ultra Flask style with the short tube and bite valve which is designed to work in the front pocket of your pack. ;)
a.co/d/072jTaWJ
Awesome video! Not often you see someone show the full transition!
Thanks! Truly appreciate it
Great video and nice gear loadout. There should definitely be more likes on this video. Keep up the great work
Much appreciated!
Thanks! Greetings from The Netherlands
Ahhh welcome!!! 🤗
Crazy! 40 lbs is quite a lot to be lugging around. My packed weight I started out with was around 32/33 lbs with food and water but recently downsized to 24/25 lbs with food and water. I think my comfort limit would be 20 lbs all inclusive since I don’t want to go ultralight.
Great update. You're definitely going to like the lighter setup.
I would recommend to recheck how you use your quilt. Experiencing drafts means that you're not using it correctly 😉
I should have said I allow the air on purpose! I love being able to allow a breeze in 😂 but in the colder weather I will button in tightly 🙃
Good stuff!!
🫶🫶🫶
Seems like some great choices!!🤙
Thanks! There’s a lot to make 😂
I like your style. Chair, ya, I had one very very briefly.. Pain to set up and sunk into the ground.. Couldn't get rid of it fast enough.
Coffee cup, HECK YA,! Keep up the good work.
Haha so true! Love the coffee cup! Thanks friend! Truly appreciate the feedback and interaction 🥰
Thanks for sharing your food bag!
I’m obsessed 😍
Exciting! I sometimes wonder if I love gear more than actual backpacking! 🤣. If you have the shoulder strap water bottle you aren’t really going to need the straw thingy. I love the Zpacks shoulder strap water bottle holder. You can put a full liter in there but if it’s to tall you can get the slightly smaller Smart Water bottle that comes with a sport cap and just refill it along the way with your other bottles. The other funny thing is I see people get a quilt but then add a liner? Just stick with a sleeping bag at that point. I may try a quilt at some point but really love crawling into a good sleeping bag and getting cozy. Have fun on your hikes and thanks for sharing your load out! Awesome gear!
On my last trip I took the shoulder water pocket off and hung my camera there so it’s an option in case I’m hiking with my camera!
I totally hear you on the quilt thing! I’m not sure what I prefer just yet but I think I would have added the sleeping bag liner regardless for the ability to wash it and the weirdness of not loving the sleeping bag material!
Thanks man! Appreciate you watching and sharing your thoughts! Always love hearing what people prefer! There’s no one size fits all and most of this is newer stuff so still figuring out what works best for certain trips! (They aren’t all the same ahha)
Great updates 👍🏻
Glad you think so too!
This is great! Looks like some good swaps there. I'm sure it feels a lot better too. Question for you: do you carry a repair kit of any sort? Tenacious tape, sewing kit, etc? Also, have you changed what you take in terms of clothing? Thanks!
It feels so much better! I do carry a few repair items in my ditty bag and yes! I used to take new clothes for everyday and now I just pack 1 of everything expect socks . I bring 2
Hi! Im curious about tips for backcountry camping with my dog. How do you keep your dogs from getting muddy feet etc on your sleeping bag? And also i worry about my dog damaging my tent if she jumps on the mesh while trying to get out to a sound during the night. I think I would leave the door open and then have her leash attached to my wrist so that it would for sure wake me up when she slipped out. I live in Ireland so there aren't any snakes to worry about coming in the open door, but we do have impressive slugs.
outdoor vitals sleeping pad cannot be beat!
Which one do you like?
@@messagesfromthemountain the 3 inch pad.
Can you do a post on training for hiking alone and with dogs? Like what do your dogs require? Even setting up a camp, I am a visual learner so it helps more in understanding a system. Maybe even how you pack all those goodies into your bag.
@@ALMAPAGAN if you go to my page I have a packing video and a gear video for the pups! But can definitely do some about hiking and camping alone! And if those 2 don’t cover what you’re looking for let me know :)
@@messagesfromthemountain Thank you I will go and check them out.
🏕️
So you went Thru-hiker style ;) Very good gear but you probably had to sell your kidney hahahaha (joke). The duplex is my dream tent "someday".
Definitely went that direction seeing as my first thru hike is upcoming 🥹 it’s been a game changer
Ok, but u don't bring clothes and food? What about mosquito spray? Also can you show the cooking kit outside of the bag.
@@FMcMtl this was not a full packing video! However I have one on my page! I haven’t made a video about food yet but I’m working on it :) depends on where I’m going for bug spray but it would be in my ditty bag with my toiletries!
@@FMcMtl sure can do a whole video about food and cooking set up
People with ultralight base weights don't impress me, as you're all just what I refer to as 'fair weather hikers' who never venture very far from running/flowing water sources and food drops every 50-100km. If I hiked where you hike, I would take a 7L Polish Bread Bag satchel containing everything I need to survive and have a base weight of 10lbs (5kg). Over the years, I've tried to find people who can join me on my multi-week hikes across unforgiving terrain and through tough weather systems, and the only other people I've found with the right skills and equipment are other guys who have also served in the military, and one guy who previously worked for the Australian SES (state emergency service). Every time I come across these ultralight wankers, they're kitted out with flimsy shit that constantly breaks, yet it cost them an entire paycheck.
... Completely different types of hikers ,, Supported or Unsupported .......Todays ultra light hikers are typically long distance hikers that are on trail systems with towns or gear resupply locations every 3-5 days ,, even then ill or un- prepared for unexpected mishaps that can happen in the backcountry ,, i.e.- injury to self or others ,, extreme weather changes ,, problems with trail or terrain that forces rerouting , so more time needed ,, (which means more food , water , fuel and additional clothing for temps not planned for or gear like microspikes /ice axe not planned for ,, etc. ) ... I agree ,, big difference between trail hikers wearing a backpack and Backpackers out on an extended adventure with what you carry with you ...
flimsy shit, thats it.perfect , oh and they always have SOS gear in case they mess up. Mommy Phone.
Why is it always the guys who carry heavy old gear are such absolute douchebags?
why is it always the guys who carry old heavy bulky gear are such d-bags?
Hey there. For your pack did you get the pouches added to the hip belt? They look huge on the website but not so much on your pack, if they are the pouches. Thanks and happy trails.🤘🏻🥾⛰️
I did get them added as well as a shoulder pouch! They’re called belt pouch on the website! They’re a must have in my book! Here’s the link: zpacks.com/products/belt-pouch?aff=199
Hi did you share your camp shoes? Couldnt find them on the list so jw 🫶
I did not ! I have had so many pairs! Chaco chillos, to these which were super cheap at a random gear store but they broke on my last trip! So I just bought a pair of tevas! Ever changing 😂
@kenziefromkansas haha that's right, all in the flow of things ✨️ I also just got some Tevas super cheap at a discount shop, they'll work for now 🌈