I found, for beginners, be careful with the liter size. Some backpacks give the main compartment size, other brands list the total volume for all the pockets and extras. Could result in 2 very different capacities listed as "50L" - just something to check into as you compare packs online. Dig in a bit!
The real truth is that, assuming you do love backpacking, you'll end up buying two sets of gear. The first will be mid-to-low quality or not meet your needs perfectly, then second will be gear you actually love to use at a higher price point. Best option: borrow what you can from a friend/rent until you get an idea of what you like!
I see many people doing that. I had 4 stages, Big 5, quality issues became apparent quickly. Then bought a large Kelty, where I noticed the quality difference immediately. This was a very large pack and super heavy but worked. Eventially moved into a smaller Osprey Aether 70. This did me well for a long time, I love that bag to this day, no complaints at all. And then I discovered lighter weight backpacking, went down the rabbit hole, and never got out lol
@@timwarneka5681 I really love my Allmansright Liten 35, probably my most used pack for the majority of my quick, fair weather missions. I also have an HMG Southwest 2400 that I really enjoy with heavier loads. A couple others that I have not used enough are a Palante V2 and Desert pack but are liking them so far. I do need to trim down my closet though.
Dan, can you make a Part 2 to this video? I'd love for you to review all the backpacks that you own. List your likes and dislikes of each individual backpack, best application for each, and any "special" features they may have that you appreciate would be fantastic! Thanks Dan, keep up the great work.
Here's the argument for buying your backpack first: if you don't have a backpack, you can't go backpacking. You are not going to tuck your tent and sleeping bag under your arm and set off down the trail. Not everyone can afford to buy everything at once, which is essentially what Dan is advocating for here. People on a budget (like me) can only afford to buy one thing at a time. So spend money on a backpack and stuff it with an old sleeping bag from the closet and a sheet of poly if it's going to rain. It won't be a glamorous experience like a visit to Dan's gear closet but you will be backpacking.
Agreed. I used to work in the outdoor industry and why I still support brick and mortar stores. Bring as much gear as you own to the store to make sure it will even fit into the pack you're considering purchasing. You also don't need to purchase a $500 backpack right out of the gate. Also renting gear is an option too. It allows you to try multiple options before you buy.
Agree. This is how I started and have been upgrading ever since... In retrospect however, if the gear is garbage it may dissuade new hikers from continuing.. My first few cold nights in Upstate Ohio about did it in for me many years ago but also glad i didn't carry a 10lb bag as well.... :)
Also you need to make sure the shelter and sleep system will fit in the bag. Also to be honest I usually just go camping with a military sleeping bag and two tarps from Walmart for shelter and sleep. I have tents and a bunch of other options but it's what I choose because it's easy and it works every time I've been out even in storms.
Thanks to watching lots of hikingCZcams videos and being 61, I knew I wanted to be light in order to be happy hiking. Chose a 38 liter bag and built around it. Down quilt, light weight tent, mat, cook system, and light, compatible clothing. I have plenty of room for four or five days of food.
One bag I almost never see suggested, and I use and love, is the sierra designs flex capacitor. This is an excellent bag! Its under 200 bucks, very very light, holds a ton of weight and carries it extremely comfortably. It also works for carrying different size loads for different occasions really well due to how it changes sizes. Another bonus of its design is that it also secures things really well since you can literally have the bag hug your stuff once it packed, nothing shifts and moves around keeping it even more comfortable. After switching from an osprey to this guy, I found I really DONT need all the extra pockets and junk, just the felx capacitor and an a liner bag and its perfect.
The 40-60L is my mainstay, too. I am picking up a CTUG 45L for summer camping but the Flex Capacitor is a fantastic, versatile bag that I can use in all 4 seasons.
Gregory Zulu 35 is what I use for long day hikes and/or carrying the wife's stuff. Works great and they come in different sizes so you can pick what your needs are. I have a Deuter 32 Speedlite and also a Deuter 22 AC lite for shorter stuff. I used a Camelbak Peak Bagger in the past but after 20 years it began to rip and the interior water proof coating pealed. The new Camelbaks are not the same size and quality of what I had.
I started with a military Alice pack, and for my heavy loads will still use it. My next pack was an Osprey Exos 48 , and my newest pack is a zpacks robo....I e yet to get this one on the trail but my first loadout with Alice was 45lbs, and now I'm down to 15lbs....
Great video Dan 👍 I went for a large backpacking for when I take my son with me many have said it's way over sized but I like to have to extra space and can still keep my base wight at around 20 lbs even in the winter
Here's what I've learned. 1) 💯 about your shelter and sleep system determining your backpack, you have to work out your own comfort level needs before you can really KNOW what pack size/type actually works for you 2) There is simply no static 'one gear list to rule them all', it totally depends what you do. 3) Therefore I think it's best to have TWO gear lists with yourself that covers all basis... For me it's a 60L pack for 5+ day trips with a freestanding tent for all conditions and food/water carry. And a 36-40L pack for 2-5 day trips with a UL non-freestanding tent with limited food/water carry in more temperate conditions. That covers me for everything I do (in Britain). 4) You get what you pay for, I nearly quit this because a cheap 3F backpack failed on me on one of my first hikes and had a miserable experience, but since forking out for good stuff I absolutely LOVE multi day hiking and backpack trips. Hope this helps ...
True, so many years ago in northern COLD Ohio I nearly quit because I went cheap with the bag and a crappy mat.... I have never went cheap on my pack or sleep system since...
tried them all and still come back to a external frame Jansport, very comfromy and and alot of space (6500) but the best part is it is zippered down the middle so you can access your gear without unpacking the rest of your stuff, shorter hikes I'm using a Blacktail 30 roll top waterproof but nothing beats the external frame pack for comfort
Personally I don't like ultralight packs because the gear I carry isn't super light or small. I like packs that carry loads comfortably without sagging or creating uncomfortable pressure points
You were the first person I heard say buy your pack last back when you first started . Now all the others are talking about it. You were the trailblazer, get it , trailblazer😀. Thanks for another awesome video !
I just bought a really nice backpack from decathlon it's a 60 litr trek 100 backpack and I love it so far. It's lightweight but decent 1,7kg and it feels so much lighter than my old "one size fits all" kind of cheap backpack. It cost me only €70 euro!
Get a few backpacks for different uses. My biggest now, is a Fjällräven Kajka 65L, which is heavy, but have shoulder width adjustment. Absolutely perfect! One day I am wearing a tshirt, another day a few layers plus a warm jacket, so need different width to adjust. Then I have a 38L lighter for climbing, very slim and simple, then a 30 for small trips, a smaller very airy 18L for fast one day climbing tripsand then a very small light 10L for mountain biking. Always always always try them on with load, say ½ of what you need or a little more. Borrow some backpacks from a friend and load it up and try it on a long walk. Ultra light think ones are crap in my view. Today, most packs can be unloaded from all it's extra features. Don't spend a fortune on expensive roll packs inside to organize, just use one or two big black trash bags - light and waterproof. Buy your pack second hand and select a proper brand, and do us all a favour. Cheers.
My backpack is a Osprey Hikelite 32 Liter Backpack. And it fits everything i need comfortably for my torso. Its an inexpensive kit and if i would have paid more for less bulky sleep system products here and there id have more space for things. That being said it has everything i need in pretty good compartments and also space for food on top. I even had space for a solar panel that no one on youtube likes. But i like youtube videos and it charges my phone. It also is responsible for charging my flashlights, headlights, watches, speakers, and lighters. I recommend using a power bank with solar panels. It helps provide consistent output when weather gets spotty temporarily
Width of the pack was essential for me because I'm a giant. Nobody makes them 20" wide so I went with the military large ruck sack. I can use it with my ultralight gear, or my bushcraft gear. It also has a couple large pouches to add on if I need to haul enough to go live in the bush for a month.
A month 🏕️ whoa 🤯 if I had a month there’s manny nature places yet there’s many other places to see lay by the ocean 🌊 going to Scotland to visit sacred magical 🧙🏽♀️ places. There’s many historical sites I want to see in Greece, Egyptian sites pyramids. A few days up Lake Superior but not a month. What do you do?
I've been in the backing/mountaineering game along time (40 years). I totally agree. There's another thing that's never talked about. Clothing size, smaller size clothing can be 1 to 2 times the fabric and weight . Just compare two identical garments, 1 small, 1 xl. It's no joke when you add it all up. Same for sleep systems.
@@DanBecker yea 60 years old by society rules. In those days single sacks with no bells and whistles were the packs of choice, especially for mountaineering and everything went inside, thanx to you and thru hiking ultralite, there back. Zippers add weight,freeze and break. Simplicity in the wild rules. Keep up the good work!.
As far as ultralight goes, splitting your gear between a small group will lighten a load, like a single cook system, a tent that can hold two or three people, first aid gear, water purification etc.
The Vargo "ExoTi™ BOG" 40L backpack with titanium frame looks pretty sweet..! I currently got the Arcteryx "Alpha FL 45", and i think it is really good value for money. The "main configuration" is 30 liter, but it can be expanded to 45 liter if necessary. As it is a frameless backpack, it is not designed for heavy loads, but IMO, it is still ok with 8kg (although some extra padding on the shoulders would be preferable). I have not tried other frameless backpacks though, so take what i say with a grain of salt. It is a minimalistic backpack, with limited attatchment points compared to many other backpacks, so you need to get a little "creative" if you want to strap your tent on the outside of the pack (i use an elastic net with hooks for this purpose).
Bullet proof pack with plenty of features, plus comfort. Just because it will carry 40 lbs doesn't mean you have to. I like my GG Crown 38 and it easily carries 23 lbs comfortably. Kind of my limit going up and down mountains.
Atmos 65 is my 'large pack' also. Works great for cold gear, or longer days when I need more 'stuff'. My go to is my ULA circuit. Both have pros and cons(to me).
I bought three backpacks , over time, each a little larger than the last. Although it seems crazy, I like choosing the “best” for the current outing. Most are military surplus
Hi Dan, I like your no non-sense explanation of all things for hiking, stuff and your experience. I am an avid hiker and have been in the outdoors for 40+ years, I unfortunately have had a few obstacles to tackle, stage 4 cancer, really bad arthritis that attacked my knees. I have not been active in the woods now for 4 years and just had the first (Sept) of two knees fully replaced, I am planning on the second in February which will hopefully allow me to get back into the woods by May/June. I will start off by hiking with small pack and poles of course which I used previously. I have been hiking the northeast MA,NH,ME,VT, NY and included a few 4k footers in the white mountains. I want to get your take on what I have said for progression and also your thoughts or maybe a video on "hot tents" as I am planning on doing winter hiking/camping. The picture is from my last climb up mount Lincoln in the white mountains approx. 4100' I lost all my gear when someone broke into my storage unit which is why I am gearing up again, thanks keep up the good videos 🙂
The Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor is a great first pack. It adjusts from 40-60 liters and is very light. Not ultralight but light. It really helps you dial out your kit.
Do you have one? Can you tell me about the hip belt measurements? Those seem to be very short even for the larger version? I am trying to buy one, but in Europe there are not that many sellers and non i could try it one before i buy it.
Just ordered an Exos 58 for my son who is a scout and going to Philmont this summer. Wanted the extra durability and warranty for him. As for me, I have almost a dozen different backpacking bags from lots of different makers. I’m saving a lot on gas money so might as well get a Zpacks, right? (The answer is “Of course!”)
Personally after having travelled for a few years now, the best advice i can give you is focus on tbe size of the backpack, you're most definitely gonna think bigger is better or somehow gonna end up getting a deal on a bigger backpack, but somwhere down the road you'll notice that it's too big for your needs so you just stuff it sith stuff you never end up wearing/using for the sake of not taking a fluffy empty backpack or you end up taking a a fluffy empty backpack! For a 64kg/178cm guy, i had a 70L backpack that was a gift from my mom (Because she thought the more expensive the better a backpack is) so eventually i had to give up on it and look for a smaller one, i find a 50L the best size for backpacking, obviously you'll have straps to attack your tent, sleeping bag and stuff to not put them inside and in extreme cases if you buy something from somewhere on your trip, i usually take my Estpack schoolbag with me, bring it out stuff things in it and wear in in the front !! Love & from a Moroccan solo traveler !! 🥾🌲🪨⛰️🌳🍁🐌🏕️
I rock a larger pack that way i don’t have to pack very effectively and can pack whatever i want. Old school Kelty Redcloud 6500/90 Liter. It was upgrade from external Kelty Tioga which is still a solid workhorse sherpa style you can pack in a small pony with it!!!!
Ever try an uberlight setup with the Osprey Daylite Daypack (13L)? Could be a nice challenge lol. I've been wanting to try an extremely minimalist loadout for camping/dayhiking.
After 30yrs, I find that I really hate pockets. Oh, one or two small on the outside is fine for a phone, a lip balm, a pocket snack. The rest, I want in the main pouch organized by need in a waterproof stuff sack.
Hi DB! Always interesting and entertaining content. Oh yeah, informative too. You know, I was i knew this three years ago when I bought an ultralight pack, bc, I bought a 55L and truly a 40L would be enough. I will be downsizing this year. Thanks 😊 You are so right.
For how long of trips? I have been looking at the north face terra 55 for 2 month trip im taking next year in Europe and im scared its going to be to small
I had a really hard time finding the perfect backpack for me because I am a landscape photographer and need to carry lots of camera gear as well as backpacking gear. In the end I went with the shimoda action x50 and I absolutely love it.
Hey how has your experience been with the x50? I'm thinking of doing backpacking, currently I have shimodas exlore v2 30l that I bought for overseas travel.
dan , i gto a o=sprey atmos 50 ag and its missing the front straps for a sleeping pad , you got any ideas what i can do to sort of gimmie somthing on it to ack like the pad straps ?
hello! I'm trying to figure out whats the best size bag for my gf and I, she doesnt want her own so it would be the one to carry stuff for both of us! It will be for mainly day hikes! nothing longer than a day, specifically were going to yellowstone and would like to know the perfect size for 2 people for day hikes. thank you!
i used to smoke by dudes that were carrying the internal frame mountain packs, especially up hills , external frames arent techy or cool but they work, also with straps you can configure gear to the frame to leave you space where you need it, and youll need it
So I have a 55L backpack for my first overnight hike but I can’t fit everything inside. Now I’m figuring out how to strap stuff to the outside of the pack.
Fully agree about shelter/sleep system prior to backpack. I went from tent to hammock and it changed everything. With that said though.. prob not many people who watch this channel have yet to buy a bag. But if you help 1 person. Its worth it
Also, smaller bags without an external frame are going to be felt with a lighter load. Support and focus on a good frame is more important in my opinion.
I needed a bigger capacity backpack when I got my dog. Even with her carrying some of her stuff, I bring more stuff for her to be comfortable and. Totally worth the weight.
Beginning any sport is going to cost some money, but with a tent and sleeping system you can save a lot of motel money by car camping instead. That saved money can go toward quality gear. Gather all the stuff you have, old or otherwise, take it to a shop with experienced sales people and try many different brands. Remember that lightweight does not always translate into comfortable. Framed pack with hipbelt is the way to go for beginners. Transferring the weight to the hips was Mr. Kelty's innovation in the 50s and it revolutionized backpacking. Do not discount the external framed packs, they let you walk more upright and are easy to organize. I've packed for 32 years (with external and internal) and would never rest even 10 lbs on my shoulders only, too painful. Put extra weight (to mimic food and water) into the packs in the store and walk around to see how it feels. Mail ordering from a mom and pop shop is great but make sure you can send it back if it does not work for you. I worked as a backpack store for 2 years and had to buy my first pack (Trailwise) from another store to get one that fit me. Space, weight, cost, size etc. are important but comfort is the goal.
I was organizing everything a few days ago on a tarp out on the lawn and as nice as my 40L rucksack is, when I try to put a weeks worth of gear in it, I just can't. I need 60L minimum. And external carry points
I have a Dana Designs that has treated me well for hundreds of miles over many years, but I'm looking into something lighter while planning for my first thru hike.
I've been looking for a good backpack for a long time, I need 100L as I have 5 children who can't carry all their stuff so my backpack becomes heavy and big. But one problem is that I'm quite short 169 cm. Är inte så förtjust i topp matade väskor.vad skulle du rekommendera?
I am constantly telling people to go up in torso lenth if they have doubts. Many don't listen and complain when they can't get their hips to carry any weight. Fully loaded, your load lifter straps should go upwards from your shoulders to the frame. Fwiw, I used to work at REI in the last century and have hiked thousands of miles. I carry a frameless pack, and have been, since 2005. I had to figure out what I needed to carry and what I could do without, first. 🤐
I bought sixmoon designs fusion65 for 120$. I was very excited about the prize and devastated when the prize got up to almost 300$ with shipping to Finland. Its an excellent pack. Totally worth of living on a shoestring for a couple weeks lol
I researched over and over again. Went and tried on a bunch of packs. Some of the top rated packs were very uncomfortable. Ended up with a pack nobody online really talks about, the osprey aether. It’s just fit me best, and I’ve never regretted it. So try them on with weight in them.
Good for you! Interesting, because the aether always comes up in reviews and searches and I’ve seen good reviews about it. Getting me the women’s version of it 🙂
Big cushioned cofortable hip belt it's THA KEY... the name of the game... tha real f... McCoy... in back packing... A good and effective distribution in 3 spots (shoulders and hip) for carrying just any weighth not only absorbs those 3 or 4 pounds that an UL backpack don't have, but also provides confort in the trial. So cofort it's the priority in backpacks... For tha things that goes INSIDE it is that we should choose betwing UL or Light weight, and maybe all those luxury items on each people's preference... Sooo... Gregory, Osprey, Granite, etc... Dan did you ever tried a Seek Outside backpack...? Would be nice to see a review from you of that brand... Cheers...
@@uglymoulin6639 You will fall in love with the stone glacier brand it stand for so much and gear is amazing. i also have there M5 kit and its amazing.
@@professionalantichristhate528 stone glacier is like putting on aback brace that fells amzing and once you have the fit right it feel like a feather and amazing at carrying 50+ lbs in gear. my training setup is around 50lbs and thats alomst half my body weight and it feels amazing.
Nothing wrong with that. I rocked my high Sierra 65 for like 5 years. It wouldn't die and I ended up just getting bored and wanted to try something else.
I tried an Ozark Trail Eagle 40 liter and it was not the right size for my torso. I adjusted it to the max but it still felt short for my torso and I'm only 5' 9" . The quality for the price was very good though.
Okay, y'all help me out. We're going on our first hike. My wife and I are not in great shape but not in bad shape. Round is still a shape right? We're in our early 50's. I want to start off on what most people would probably do just carrying a 1/2 liter bottle of water for. BUT!! I want to carry a full load out for an overnight 15-20 mile trip. Just link me to a good video please. Thank you, Scott and Lynda
Im actually trying to figure this out now. I’m wanting to reduce my pack weight and I have just got a semi free standing tent and just upgraded to a UGQ 20 quilt that I love. Now deciding on a backpack. I have a Osprey pack I love it’s 4.5 pounds. I’ve looked at hyperlite just not sure. I think I would like the mesh pocket that is the whole length of the pack. I do have back problems so hip-belt is a must I would think so that one reason for reducing my pack weight. Other than that I’m not sure of the rest.
I have the Levity 45 and love it. It only weighs around 2 lbs. I packed gear including food for a 4 day canoe trip in it and still weighed in around 20 lbs.
For me its a catch 22. If you buy a cheap pack to test the waters the pack itself may make the trip hell and you say I hate this. Yet a more expensive pack is more comfortable ad thus you are comfortable and continuing backpacking. Like everything theres no simple answer.
Most will say get the atmos. The atmos felt like it was leaning backwards and sagging no matter how it was adjusted. The aether fit me perfectly. Moral of the story try on packs if you can.
I just don’t agree with anything influencers peddle about backpack choices. The hyper focus on size and weight is kinda ridiculous. Also, buying a bag JUST big enough to hold what you have is terrible advice. Flexibility is more important. If your bag limits what you can take, then you’re also limited on the types of hikes you can do.
I found, for beginners, be careful with the liter size. Some backpacks give the main compartment size, other brands list the total volume for all the pockets and extras. Could result in 2 very different capacities listed as "50L" - just something to check into as you compare packs online. Dig in a bit!
The real truth is that, assuming you do love backpacking, you'll end up buying two sets of gear. The first will be mid-to-low quality or not meet your needs perfectly, then second will be gear you actually love to use at a higher price point. Best option: borrow what you can from a friend/rent until you get an idea of what you like!
I see many people doing that. I had 4 stages, Big 5, quality issues became apparent quickly. Then bought a large Kelty, where I noticed the quality difference immediately. This was a very large pack and super heavy but worked. Eventially moved into a smaller Osprey Aether 70. This did me well for a long time, I love that bag to this day, no complaints at all. And then I discovered lighter weight backpacking, went down the rabbit hole, and never got out lol
@@gilbertmedina1837 Just headed down that rabbit hole myself. Do you have a different favorite (lighter) pack now, Gilbert?
@@timwarneka5681 I really love my Allmansright Liten 35, probably my most used pack for the majority of my quick, fair weather missions. I also have an HMG Southwest 2400 that I really enjoy with heavier loads. A couple others that I have not used enough are a Palante V2 and Desert pack but are liking them so far. I do need to trim down my closet though.
@@gilbertmedina1837 Thanks, Gilbert. I've got a long way to go to learn about packing smaller packs (I have an Kelty Tioga 5500).
Dan, can you make a Part 2 to this video? I'd love for you to review all the backpacks that you own. List your likes and dislikes of each individual backpack, best application for each, and any "special" features they may have that you appreciate would be fantastic! Thanks Dan, keep up the great work.
Here's the argument for buying your backpack first: if you don't have a backpack, you can't go backpacking. You are not going to tuck your tent and sleeping bag under your arm and set off down the trail. Not everyone can afford to buy everything at once, which is essentially what Dan is advocating for here. People on a budget (like me) can only afford to buy one thing at a time. So spend money on a backpack and stuff it with an old sleeping bag from the closet and a sheet of poly if it's going to rain. It won't be a glamorous experience like a visit to Dan's gear closet but you will be backpacking.
Agreed, everyone has to start somewhere. As a bonus, you can figure out if backpacking is something you actually like and will continue to do
Agreed. I used to work in the outdoor industry and why I still support brick and mortar stores. Bring as much gear as you own to the store to make sure it will even fit into the pack you're considering purchasing. You also don't need to purchase a $500 backpack right out of the gate. Also renting gear is an option too. It allows you to try multiple options before you buy.
Agree. This is how I started and have been upgrading ever since... In retrospect however, if the gear is garbage it may dissuade new hikers from continuing.. My first few cold nights in Upstate Ohio about did it in for me many years ago but also glad i didn't carry a 10lb bag as well.... :)
Also you need to make sure the shelter and sleep system will fit in the bag. Also to be honest I usually just go camping with a military sleeping bag and two tarps from Walmart for shelter and sleep. I have tents and a bunch of other options but it's what I choose because it's easy and it works every time I've been out even in storms.
@@ifilmalways7122 'Upstate Ohio" :-) (I'm from Northeast Ohio ... never heard it described as this.) Thanks for the comment.
Thanks to watching lots of hikingCZcams videos and being 61, I knew I wanted to be light in order to be happy hiking. Chose a 38 liter bag and built around it. Down quilt, light weight tent, mat, cook system, and light, compatible clothing. I have plenty of room for four or five days of food.
One bag I almost never see suggested, and I use and love, is the sierra designs flex capacitor. This is an excellent bag! Its under 200 bucks, very very light, holds a ton of weight and carries it extremely comfortably. It also works for carrying different size loads for different occasions really well due to how it changes sizes. Another bonus of its design is that it also secures things really well since you can literally have the bag hug your stuff once it packed, nothing shifts and moves around keeping it even more comfortable. After switching from an osprey to this guy, I found I really DONT need all the extra pockets and junk, just the felx capacitor and an a liner bag and its perfect.
The 40-60L is my mainstay, too. I am picking up a CTUG 45L for summer camping but the Flex Capacitor is a fantastic, versatile bag that I can use in all 4 seasons.
Gregory Zulu 35 is what I use for long day hikes and/or carrying the wife's stuff. Works great and they come in different sizes so you can pick what your needs are. I have a Deuter 32 Speedlite and also a Deuter 22 AC lite for shorter stuff. I used a Camelbak Peak Bagger in the past but after 20 years it began to rip and the interior water proof coating pealed. The new Camelbaks are not the same size and quality of what I had.
Here i am watching this video AFTER buying a new backpack.
😳🤣
Gawd dammit Becker !!! I bought my backpack yesterday lol
I absolutely love my Osprey day lite plus for my 1/2 day hikes! It’s light but built strong
Yes they are!!!
I started with a military Alice pack, and for my heavy loads will still use it. My next pack was an Osprey Exos 48 , and my newest pack is a zpacks robo....I e yet to get this one on the trail but my first loadout with Alice was 45lbs, and now I'm down to 15lbs....
Great video Dan 👍 I went for a large backpacking for when I take my son with me many have said it's way over sized but I like to have to extra space and can still keep my base wight at around 20 lbs even in the winter
Thanks for this vid man. Really great and really helpful (like all the others)
Here's what I've learned. 1) 💯 about your shelter and sleep system determining your backpack, you have to work out your own comfort level needs before you can really KNOW what pack size/type actually works for you 2) There is simply no static 'one gear list to rule them all', it totally depends what you do. 3) Therefore I think it's best to have TWO gear lists with yourself that covers all basis... For me it's a 60L pack for 5+ day trips with a freestanding tent for all conditions and food/water carry. And a 36-40L pack for 2-5 day trips with a UL non-freestanding tent with limited food/water carry in more temperate conditions. That covers me for everything I do (in Britain). 4) You get what you pay for, I nearly quit this because a cheap 3F backpack failed on me on one of my first hikes and had a miserable experience, but since forking out for good stuff I absolutely LOVE multi day hiking and backpack trips. Hope this helps ...
Great advice!
True, so many years ago in northern COLD Ohio I nearly quit because I went cheap with the bag and a crappy mat.... I have never went cheap on my pack or sleep system since...
tried them all and still come back to a external frame Jansport, very comfromy and and alot of space (6500) but the best part is it is zippered down the middle so you can access your gear without unpacking the rest of your stuff, shorter hikes I'm using a Blacktail 30 roll top waterproof but nothing beats the external frame pack for comfort
Thanks Dan! I like ones with more organization. I'm looking at a Gregory Diva 60
Personally I don't like ultralight packs because the gear I carry isn't super light or small. I like packs that carry loads comfortably without sagging or creating uncomfortable pressure points
Good info Dan I have the Osprey Aether 70 AG I carry the tent for my wife and I a little more room and can handle the weight.
Awesome video brother! Thank you
Thanks Dan great video as usual.
You were the first person I heard say buy your pack last back when you first started . Now all the others are talking about it. You were the trailblazer, get it , trailblazer😀. Thanks for another awesome video !
I just bought a really nice backpack from decathlon it's a 60 litr trek 100 backpack and I love it so far. It's lightweight but decent 1,7kg and it feels so much lighter than my old "one size fits all" kind of cheap backpack. It cost me only €70 euro!
Get a few backpacks for different uses. My biggest now, is a Fjällräven Kajka 65L, which is heavy, but have shoulder width adjustment. Absolutely perfect! One day I am wearing a tshirt, another day a few layers plus a warm jacket, so need different width to adjust. Then I have a 38L lighter for climbing, very slim and simple, then a 30 for small trips, a smaller very airy 18L for fast one day climbing tripsand then a very small light 10L for mountain biking.
Always always always try them on with load, say ½ of what you need or a little more.
Borrow some backpacks from a friend and load it up and try it on a long walk.
Ultra light think ones are crap in my view. Today, most packs can be unloaded from all it's extra features.
Don't spend a fortune on expensive roll packs inside to organize, just use one or two big black trash bags - light and waterproof.
Buy your pack second hand and select a proper brand, and do us all a favour.
Cheers.
I was told for correct sizing, the top half of the hipbelt should almost fold over the hip bone, to keep it in place well.
My backpack is a Osprey Hikelite 32 Liter Backpack.
And it fits everything i need comfortably for my torso. Its an inexpensive kit and if i would have paid more for less bulky sleep system products here and there id have more space for things. That being said it has everything i need in pretty good compartments and also space for food on top. I even had space for a solar panel that no one on youtube likes. But i like youtube videos and it charges my phone. It also is responsible for charging my flashlights, headlights, watches, speakers, and lighters. I recommend using a power bank with solar panels. It helps provide consistent output when weather gets spotty temporarily
Width of the pack was essential for me because I'm a giant. Nobody makes them 20" wide so I went with the military large ruck sack. I can use it with my ultralight gear, or my bushcraft gear. It also has a couple large pouches to add on if I need to haul enough to go live in the bush for a month.
A month 🏕️ whoa 🤯 if I had a month there’s manny nature places yet there’s many other places to see lay by the ocean 🌊 going to Scotland to visit sacred magical 🧙🏽♀️ places. There’s many historical sites I want to see in Greece, Egyptian sites pyramids. A few days up Lake Superior but not a month. What do you do?
What you said about buying the shelter and sleep system frist is the best bit of information I have gotten.
I've collected a number of backpacks over time...each has a purpose. Good overview and set of things to consider!
The flash 45/55l from REI are great affordable, lightweight options. I have used both. Prefer the 55 because it has a roll top closure.
My 5th purchase. Deuter 50l and was fitted by REI. Works great!
I've been in the backing/mountaineering game along time (40 years). I totally agree. There's another thing that's never talked about. Clothing size, smaller size clothing can be 1 to 2 times the fabric and weight . Just compare two identical garments, 1 small, 1 xl. It's no joke when you add it all up. Same for sleep systems.
Wow 40 years!!
@@DanBecker yea 60 years old by society rules. In those days single sacks with no bells and whistles were the packs of choice, especially for mountaineering and everything went inside, thanx to you and thru hiking ultralite, there back. Zippers add weight,freeze and break. Simplicity in the wild rules. Keep up the good work!.
As far as ultralight goes, splitting your gear between a small group will lighten a load, like a single cook system, a tent that can hold two or three people, first aid gear, water purification etc.
Absolutely true
Enjoyed that
If you want specific locations for the torso measurements it's from the Iliac crest to the C7 vertebrae.
The Vargo "ExoTi™ BOG" 40L backpack with titanium frame looks pretty sweet..! I currently got the Arcteryx "Alpha FL 45", and i think it is really good value for money. The "main configuration" is 30 liter, but it can be expanded to 45 liter if necessary. As it is a frameless backpack, it is not designed for heavy loads, but IMO, it is still ok with 8kg (although some extra padding on the shoulders would be preferable). I have not tried other frameless backpacks though, so take what i say with a grain of salt. It is a minimalistic backpack, with limited attatchment points compared to many other backpacks, so you need to get a little "creative" if you want to strap your tent on the outside of the pack (i use an elastic net with hooks for this purpose).
I'm torn between the Osprey atmos AG 65 and the REI flash 55 I am a weekend camper so usually only 1-3 days of supplies needed
I have the osprey atmos ag 65. Had it for 3 years and never looked back!
Bullet proof pack with plenty of features, plus comfort. Just because it will carry 40 lbs doesn't mean you have to. I like my GG Crown 38 and it easily carries 23 lbs comfortably. Kind of my limit going up and down mountains.
Me too. I love my Ag 65. I bought a granite Gear to shave some weight and I hate it.
Had the same pack for a while and it's awesome besides the birds that ripped through the mesh
Atmos 65 is my 'large pack' also. Works great for cold gear, or longer days when I need more 'stuff'. My go to is my ULA circuit. Both have pros and cons(to me).
I bought three backpacks , over time, each a little larger than the last. Although it seems crazy, I like choosing the “best” for the current outing.
Most are military surplus
Hi Dan, I like your no non-sense explanation of all things for hiking, stuff and your experience. I am an avid hiker and have been in the outdoors for 40+ years, I unfortunately have had a few obstacles to tackle, stage 4 cancer, really bad arthritis that attacked my knees. I have not been active in the woods now for 4 years and just had the first (Sept) of two knees fully replaced, I am planning on the second in February which will hopefully allow me to get back into the woods by May/June. I will start off by hiking with small pack and poles of course which I used previously. I have been hiking the northeast MA,NH,ME,VT, NY and included a few 4k footers in the white mountains. I want to get your take on what I have said for progression and also your thoughts or maybe a video on "hot tents" as I am planning on doing winter hiking/camping. The picture is from my last climb up mount Lincoln in the white mountains approx. 4100' I lost all my gear when someone broke into my storage unit which is why I am gearing up again, thanks keep up the good videos 🙂
The Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor is a great first pack. It adjusts from 40-60 liters and is very light. Not ultralight but light. It really helps you dial out your kit.
Do you have one? Can you tell me about the hip belt measurements? Those seem to be very short even for the larger version? I am trying to buy one, but in Europe there are not that many sellers and non i could try it one before i buy it.
Also not cheap at £150 roughly
@@leemclaren2518 it’s really cheap compared to most. Easy to find on sale
@@Tbonesjones79 I'll keep an eye on it.
Just ordered an Exos 58 for my son who is a scout and going to Philmont this summer. Wanted the extra durability and warranty for him. As for me, I have almost a dozen different backpacking bags from lots of different makers. I’m saving a lot on gas money so might as well get a Zpacks, right? (The answer is “Of course!”)
I am getting the ULA Catalyst. Comfortable and durable. 3 lbs.
Good choice, I have the Circuit, sometimes I wish I had went with the Catalyst especially for winter hiking.
I have the Osprey Aether 65 and I love it! A little spendy but worth every penny.
Personally after having travelled for a few years now, the best advice i can give you is focus on tbe size of the backpack, you're most definitely gonna think bigger is better or somehow gonna end up getting a deal on a bigger backpack, but somwhere down the road you'll notice that it's too big for your needs so you just stuff it sith stuff you never end up wearing/using for the sake of not taking a fluffy empty backpack or you end up taking a a fluffy empty backpack!
For a 64kg/178cm guy, i had a 70L backpack that was a gift from my mom (Because she thought the more expensive the better a backpack is) so eventually i had to give up on it and look for a smaller one, i find a 50L the best size for backpacking, obviously you'll have straps to attack your tent, sleeping bag and stuff to not put them inside and in extreme cases if you buy something from somewhere on your trip, i usually take my Estpack schoolbag with me, bring it out stuff things in it and wear in in the front !!
Love & from a Moroccan solo traveler !! 🥾🌲🪨⛰️🌳🍁🐌🏕️
Ps: Backpack suggestions are welcome, budget is 200usd max
I rock a larger pack that way i don’t have to pack very effectively and can pack whatever i want. Old school Kelty Redcloud 6500/90 Liter. It was upgrade from external Kelty Tioga which is still a solid workhorse sherpa style you can pack in a small pony with it!!!!
Large packs are terrific yet some weigh eight pounds or more...others? Not so much. Consider weight if you go large. Your knees will thank you.
@@geraldhenrickson7472 jesus christ which pack weighs 8 pounds? the heaviest i have tried is my osprey aether 85L
Ozark trail has a great backpack like a 65 liter that can carry up to 40 pounds comfortably.
Ever try an uberlight setup with the Osprey Daylite Daypack (13L)? Could be a nice challenge lol. I've been wanting to try an extremely minimalist loadout for camping/dayhiking.
After 30yrs, I find that I really hate pockets. Oh, one or two small on the outside is fine for a phone, a lip balm, a pocket snack. The rest, I want in the main pouch organized by need in a waterproof stuff sack.
Hi DB!
Always interesting and entertaining content. Oh yeah, informative too. You know, I was i knew this three years ago when I bought an ultralight pack, bc, I bought a 55L and truly a 40L would be enough. I will be downsizing this year. Thanks 😊
You are so right.
For how long of trips? I have been looking at the north face terra 55 for 2 month trip im taking next year in Europe and im scared its going to be to small
Whats a good budget backpack that will pack a 10lb tent stove and 10lb hot tent?
Wish I watched this before I bought my stuff such a great video and such an amazing CZcamsr, super good quality videos, super helpful
I had a really hard time finding the perfect backpack for me because I am a landscape photographer and need to carry lots of camera gear as well as backpacking gear. In the end I went with the shimoda action x50 and I absolutely love it.
Thanks for sharing I do photography not big Cameras yet 🎥 📸
Hey how has your experience been with the x50? I'm thinking of doing backpacking, currently I have shimodas exlore v2 30l that I bought for overseas travel.
dan , i gto a o=sprey atmos 50 ag and its missing the front straps for a sleeping pad , you got any ideas what i can do to sort of gimmie somthing on it
to ack like the pad straps ?
call osprey and they will sort you out
hello! I'm trying to figure out whats the best size bag for my gf and I, she doesnt want her own so it would be the one to carry stuff for both of us! It will be for mainly day hikes! nothing longer than a day, specifically were going to yellowstone and would like to know the perfect size for 2 people for day hikes. thank you!
i used to smoke by dudes that were carrying the internal frame mountain packs, especially up hills , external frames arent techy or cool but they work, also with straps you can configure gear to the frame to leave you space where you need it, and youll need it
I would say whether you're carrying a bear canister will also impact what size bag you need.
Your bear spray isn't supposed to be in your bag of that's what your are doing.
I wasn't talking about bear spray.
So I have a 55L backpack for my first overnight hike but I can’t fit everything inside. Now I’m figuring out how to strap stuff to the outside of the pack.
Fully agree about shelter/sleep system prior to backpack. I went from tent to hammock and it changed everything. With that said though.. prob not many people who watch this channel have yet to buy a bag. But if you help 1 person. Its worth it
What changed from having to pack for a tent compared to hammock packing
@@jordynelder3614 Age. Shoulders couldn't seem to deal with the ground as well. I love both but is what it is.
Also, smaller bags without an external frame are going to be felt with a lighter load. Support and focus on a good frame is more important in my opinion.
I needed a bigger capacity backpack when I got my dog. Even with her carrying some of her stuff, I bring more stuff for her to be comfortable and. Totally worth the weight.
That dog food gets heavy I used to haul my German shepherds food for our first 3 trips I just got him a jacket so our next trip will be easier
Beginning any sport is going to cost some money, but with a tent and sleeping system you can save a lot of motel money by car camping instead. That saved money can go toward quality gear. Gather all the stuff you have, old or otherwise, take it to a shop with experienced sales people and try many different brands. Remember that lightweight does not always translate into comfortable. Framed pack with hipbelt is the way to go for beginners. Transferring the weight to the hips was Mr. Kelty's innovation in the 50s and it revolutionized backpacking. Do not discount the external framed packs, they let you walk more upright and are easy to organize. I've packed for 32 years (with external and internal) and would never rest even 10 lbs on my shoulders only, too painful. Put extra weight (to mimic food and water) into the packs in the store and walk around to see how it feels. Mail ordering from a mom and pop shop is great but make sure you can send it back if it does not work for you. I worked as a backpack store for 2 years and had to buy my first pack (Trailwise) from another store to get one that fit me. Space, weight, cost, size etc. are important but comfort is the goal.
I was organizing everything a few days ago on a tarp out on the lawn and as nice as my 40L rucksack is, when I try to put a weeks worth of gear in it, I just can't. I need 60L minimum. And external carry points
Great content man. Subscribed! Has anybody ever told you that you look like Jim Halperts older brother?
I have a Dana Designs that has treated me well for hundreds of miles over many years, but I'm looking into something lighter while planning for my first thru hike.
I started with a bugout bag before I even got into camping. I had no idea what I was doing. Started with the biggest bag I could find. Yikes lol.
Have you tested the outdoor vitals shadow light.? I’ve seen it and it looks a good bit of kit.
I have it but have not tested it yet. I will soon once the weather warms up since I have the lower capacity one.
I've been looking for a good backpack for a long time, I need 100L as I have 5 children who can't carry all their stuff so my backpack becomes heavy and big. But one problem is that I'm quite short 169 cm. Är inte så förtjust i topp matade väskor.vad skulle du rekommendera?
I'm literally watching this before I research what kinda ruck sack I want. 🙏🏼🥶😆
I am constantly telling people to go up in torso lenth if they have doubts. Many don't listen and complain when they can't get their hips to carry any weight. Fully loaded, your load lifter straps should go upwards from your shoulders to the frame. Fwiw, I used to work at REI in the last century and have hiked thousands of miles. I carry a frameless pack, and have been, since 2005. I had to figure out what I needed to carry and what I could do without, first. 🤐
I bought sixmoon designs fusion65 for 120$. I was very excited about the prize and devastated when the prize got up to almost 300$ with shipping to Finland. Its an excellent pack. Totally worth of living on a shoestring for a couple weeks lol
First thing with your backpack is to put a trash compactor bag inside
Good advice. I cant tell you how many packs ive bought then disliked by the end of the week due to not looking at them enough
I researched over and over again. Went and tried on a bunch of packs. Some of the top rated packs were very uncomfortable. Ended up with a pack nobody online really talks about, the osprey aether. It’s just fit me best, and I’ve never regretted it. So try them on with weight in them.
Good for you! Interesting, because the aether always comes up in reviews and searches and I’ve seen good reviews about it. Getting me the women’s version of it 🙂
Классное видео
Big cushioned cofortable hip belt it's THA KEY... the name of the game... tha real f... McCoy... in back packing... A good and effective distribution in 3 spots (shoulders and hip) for carrying just any weighth not only absorbs those 3 or 4 pounds that an UL backpack don't have, but also provides confort in the trial. So cofort it's the priority in backpacks... For tha things that goes INSIDE it is that we should choose betwing UL or Light weight, and maybe all those luxury items on each people's preference... Sooo... Gregory, Osprey, Granite, etc...
Dan did you ever tried a Seek Outside backpack...? Would be nice to see a review from you of that brand... Cheers...
I haven't! But I'd like to.
I went old school and went with external frame and won't go back. Way easier on my back.
Look at stone glacier backpacks if you want the best out there. I have there xcurve frame with a sky 5900.
I will thank you.
I'm using the alps camander now. It is a BIG frame but I have to carry for others.
Got one of the Savotta Jakkaris. Very expensive but light as air once its on your back
@@uglymoulin6639 You will fall in love with the stone glacier brand it stand for so much and gear is amazing. i also have there M5 kit and its amazing.
@@professionalantichristhate528 stone glacier is like putting on aback brace that fells amzing and once you have the fit right it feel like a feather and amazing at carrying 50+ lbs in gear. my training setup is around 50lbs and thats alomst half my body weight and it feels amazing.
my backpack 60l was under 50$ and has been a great pack
Still rocking my Ozark Trail 65 liter pack. After cutting all straps and ditching the brain I got it down to about 2.5 lbs....lighter than an Osprey.
I have 3 backpacks. The first one I bought was the Ozark Trail 65. My favorite.
@@clayp520 people give Ozark Trail a bad rap..i admit most of their stuff is crap but the packs are not bad at all.
Nothing wrong with that. I rocked my high Sierra 65 for like 5 years. It wouldn't die and I ended up just getting bored and wanted to try something else.
@@ohiovetoutdoors got well over 500 miles on it....no wear at all. Went through 2 pairs of Altra Timps in that same time...
I tried an Ozark Trail Eagle 40 liter and it was not the right size for my torso. I adjusted it to the max but it still felt short for my torso and I'm only 5' 9" . The quality for the price was very good though.
well can't get the picture to you for some reason
Okay, y'all help me out. We're going on our first hike. My wife and I are not in great shape but not in bad shape. Round is still a shape right? We're in our early 50's.
I want to start off on what most people would probably do just carrying a 1/2 liter bottle of water for. BUT!!
I want to carry a full load out for an overnight 15-20 mile trip. Just link me to a good video please.
Thank you, Scott and Lynda
Please review Dan durston’s gear!!! His 1p and 2p tents are excellent and he made a pack too.
I second that. His two person trekking pole tent is on my wish list
Got the 2p. Hadnt seen the bag.
@@williamallen9955 backpack is available on Amazon at the moment. 40L pack.
@@Tgauchsin i went and looked it up after seeing your comment. Think ill just wait for Drop to get the new shipment in. Thanks though.
Is it wrong that I've been rockin' the REI Flash 65 since it won Backpacker Magazine's Editor's Choice in '09!? 😲
I'm a short person with long torso👌🏽 confirm
I really like the REI Flash 55 (2Lbs) ( my 7th pack)
3:18 You said the H-word on a backpacking CZcams channel. Bold move, respect!
Im actually trying to figure this out now. I’m wanting to reduce my pack weight and I have just got a semi free standing tent and just upgraded to a UGQ 20 quilt that I love. Now deciding on a backpack. I have a Osprey pack I love it’s 4.5 pounds. I’ve looked at hyperlite just not sure. I think I would like the mesh pocket that is the whole length of the pack. I do have back problems so hip-belt is a must I would think so that one reason for reducing my pack weight. Other than that I’m not sure of the rest.
Hyperlite also makes a backpack called the Junction that has the mesh. It's essentially the only difference
@@DanBecker I’m about to check that one out. Thanks
What’s the difference in the hyperlite southwest vs waymark Thru 40
I've never used a waymark pack but I've heard they are great
@@DanBecker thank you for your help.
Can i use a womens backpack if it fits my frame,is there realy any big diff. other than color?
Osprey does sell a lightweight pack now. I like to know where all my stuff is lol.
I have the Levity 45 and love it. It only weighs around 2 lbs. I packed gear including food for a 4 day canoe trip in it and still weighed in around 20 lbs.
For me its a catch 22. If you buy a cheap pack to test the waters the pack itself may make the trip hell and you say I hate this. Yet a more expensive pack is more comfortable ad thus you are comfortable and continuing backpacking. Like everything theres no simple answer.
Sporting the 66N ! Good stuff huh ?
I'm literally going to try and buy a pack today because my old external frame doesn't fit well anymore... witchcraft...
I like the back pack the lama carries my load with. Until I can afford a lama I’ll stick with my Lite AF 46 litter pack.
I'm going to get osprey eather ag 70 for pictured rocks with boy scout troop
I love my Ag 65
@@coachhikes2747 glad to hear it 👍😁
Most will say get the atmos. The atmos felt like it was leaning backwards and sagging no matter how it was adjusted. The aether fit me perfectly. Moral of the story try on packs if you can.
@@josephr2766 yep gonna try it on at rei
I 100% prefer a minimalistic backpack over bells and whistles. Like CHILL.
I'll just take a shopping cart that way I won't have to carry anything. I'll just push it around
Getting quality ultralight gear that’s also packable and affordable isn’t impossible.
Misconception on liters you need..I know longdistance hikers use 35 liter packs...
I swapped out my hyperlite for framed north face banshee Best 1lb ever saved ( not saved )
You crack me up.
I just don’t agree with anything influencers peddle about backpack choices. The hyper focus on size and weight is kinda ridiculous. Also, buying a bag JUST big enough to hold what you have is terrible advice. Flexibility is more important. If your bag limits what you can take, then you’re also limited on the types of hikes you can do.