All The Gear Changes I Made During My Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike in 2021 | Tent, Backpack, Stove...

[@danielkutcher5704]

Thanks, Taylor! You're quite an inspiration to many hikers, including this 68 year old. I've done sections of the AT since the 1980s, and only have 270 more miles left, but figure, "Hey! I could use a real adventure to celebrate my escape from the working world, so, what the heck! I completed a 274 mile section this spring, maybe I could actually do a thru!" Thanks again for your upbeat, "Can do!" attitude. I hope that it's contagious!☺👍

[@gibrigg]

Dan - as a fellow nearing-retirement hiker who is doing AT sections as time allows, I can say get out there and follow your muse!

[@pauldonathan5316]

One quick question Taylor, what sleeping bag did you use and was it a quilt?? Love your gear review!

[@jjwdesign]

That's a really helpful video Taylor! It's interesting to know why you ditched certain gear. So many video creators talk about pros and cons, but you're actually talking about real thru-hike experiences.

[@jimmyjohnstone5878]

Gear is such a personal thing. It's good to hear the reasons why each pack worked/didn't at different times on trail.

[@1024Pete]

I love your quote, “You pack your fears”. Very insightful!

[@PedroNord]

Happy Birthday !! So nice to see Kali. It’s always fun to see what does and doesn’t work. Keep enjoying the summer without too much stressing out over your next BIG day. 🦋

[@AR9ify]

So you didn't see the frame on the backpacks outside and then thought it might be on the inside.. Well done. Your suspicion is right on 🤠

[@Oriole21]

Hi Taylor, check out the HMG Pods and stuff sacks. They provide the secondary waterproof protection for your gear and are much easier to deal with than a pack liner.

[@christinereber1861]

Great info Taylor! It's always fun to experiment with gear. I think backpacking is a great hobby for those who like to shop, LOL! I had the same fear about camp stoves; I was afraid of the flame. But I knew I needed to overcome that. I went with Frozen's recommendation of the BRS-3000T (which is the littlest thing) and an inexpensive titanium pot. After a few tries, I'm now comfortable with it. I also got a lighter with a longer nose, the Bic EZ Reach, which I love because it keeps my fingers away from the flame. This set up saved alot of money, weight, and space in my pack.

[@adventuringbuckeye8881]

We all have to dial down our gear and be honest with what works for us! Great to see. Everyone’s system should be tailored to them personally

[@isgrimner]

Did Springer to Hogpen Pass back in March or April when a lot of the NoBo thru hikers were setting out. About to do another 40 - 50 miles starting on Labor Day. I'm old and can only fit section hiking the AT into my schedule as I don't want to quit my job. I have the Arc Haul pack, think its between 60 and 70 liters, it may not have thru-hike milage on it but I've used it for about 2 years and a lot of hikes so far. I also use a duplex as well for backpacking, I did accidentally damage the stuff sack for that, when I accidentally punched some tent stakes through it.

[@wesleykremer3916]

Thank you for the re-cap for why you made the changes.

[@chrissaunders8284]

Happy birthday! BTW, a dirt nap is something one takes when one is dead.

[@vahikertrash543]

Rocks are why I swear by 6" titanium Shepard's hook stakes. They slip in-between the rocks far easier than other stakes. Generally I only have to poke around a few times before I find a spot where they will fit. And when they bend they go right back to straight. People hate on them all the time but personally my experience with them in the VA mountains is all positive. Ironically I use alcohol in part due to my irrational fear of a canister exploding.

[@joshgolo]

Attach paracord with sliding loops to all peg out point on your tent and use rocks to put up your tent on rocky ground

[@CroakerOutdoors]

I would love if I found my CCF pad to be comfortable, but it just isn't for me. I wake up with a sore hip so it's the static V for now.

[@jasperplace]

Congratulations! Watched your documentary yesterday, fascinating!

[@deadeyesteampiper685]

Congratulations on finishing your thru hike...Great to see you finally seen the light and made the change to the Hyperlight.

[@deannilvalli6579]

Thanks for this. I always enjoy these videos, even if I am not going to do the Appalachian trail. Especially the explanations as to why you/she switched was helpful to learn what works where. Most of this gear would be hopeless in the Alps, for example, but is better suited to other trails and places. so it is good to know what works there.

[@duncandomey8199]

I know you said you wanted to try your other tent anyway. But rocks make great ankers for your tent. You just have to learn a few basic knots (you probably know them already). Slip knots and temporary knots help with quick disassembly. Bungees can also work. Thank you for your thoughts.

[@christinamartinez804]

Hi Taylor- just curious why you didn’t buy the pole kit for the duplex instead of buying a new tent. I plan on taking that setup on the AT but now I am wondering….

[@jeffmcrobbie5015]

There is a pole system for the duplex ($149), I hike mostly in the Whites and Maine, so I'm thinking of trying instead of the Agnes whar do you think?

[@rachelleinweber4592]

Excellent review of gear . Super helpful to see the changes . If you want , love to see more details about the backpack change to your 3rd and final Hyoerlite and how you actually packed everything up.

[@paulslagle1800]

Happy Birthday! My wife and I are hoping to swing by your store in a few weeks while we are up for a Spartan race!

[@HuggyBearHikes]

Try the Soto Windmaster stove....it has awesome regulator so you get a precise flame adjustment.

[@maryowens1970]

Happy Happy Birthday from Damascus, VA!!!! Enjoyed your video, as always.

[@Karen-dq8nw]

Love the dog saying play with me and quit talking to a stinkin camera! Or maybe it's saying, take me with you.

[@markholleran4481]

Great info! I just ordered the HMG 2400 Junction and will be ordering the same BA Tiger Wall tent

[@EspenFrafalne]

What??? A 38 liter backpack that is rated for only 5 pounds??? Sure its not 5 kg? 5 pounds is enough for ultralight hiking gear, but 5 pounds is not even 2,5 liters of water, lol! That issue with the Duplex and tentstakes sounds familiar, lol! Although i dont like having to look for a place where the tent will fit either, so i eventually bought a Hilleberg "Bivanorak", which allows me to set up camp even on somewhat narrow trails..! I have heard that this shelter have some issues with condensation, and on my last trip, it was really hot, so my quilt got a bit damp by the time i woke up. Next time ill use a quilt or sleeping bag that is not any warmer than i need, and see if this helps with this issue. I believe it will, and if im right, the Bivanorak will be my undisputed favorite shelter..! With this i can fit everything i need for several days out in a 18 liter backpack - and waking up seeing nature start where the sleeping pad ends, is imo *much nicer* than a tent..!

[@ThanatosWings]

9:26 I like how completing the AT gave you a fuzzy bum and tail 😄

[@GypsyGirl317]

Lol 😂 🤗

[@E.I.C.C_Onwer]

Did you reach out to zpacks about that first backpack? Did they replace it for you with the other pack? So expensive to get so little use out of it 😱

[@GaerHampton]

I bought the Hyperlight Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest last year. The pack fits me far better than any pack that I've carried in the past.......including adjustable packs. Had it been offered at the time, I think that I might have bought the Junction. I like how it has the fabric side pockets, but keeps the mesh back pocket. I'm always a bit worried about trees and bushes (especially thick willows in the mountains!) catching on side pockets as I hike down the trail.

[@MegaMastiffman]

Hyperlite and ULA are my go to packs and I have the BigAgnes copper spur HV UL olive green 2P tent and I gotta say it’s probably the best tent iv ever had, my sleep system is a bit ridiculous because I have a lot of titanium in my body so I get cold and uncomfortable easy, a lot of people had problems with those back packs I think they just need to redesign them because they do make great stuff, really enjoyed your thru hike thank you.

[@alyishiking]

Zpacks actually makes a set of poles that make the Duplex freestanding. I think they weigh about 10 oz, so not bad considering it would save a hiker from buying a whole new tent.

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

Yeah I've seen those. But I already had the big agnes at home, I didn't have to buy it

[@alyishiking]

@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker For sure! Figured someone watching this might find it useful to know. Big Agnes is my #2 pick for backpacking tents as well.

[@Eric-fx9xf]

Thanks for taking the time to tell us about your experience with hiking gear. It's a big help for me. ✌👍😭

[@A.TAYLOR]

I love seeing this what you started with and what you ended with. I’ve been binging your videos the past few days. Thanks so much for sharing these videos’ 💕

[@Hobomountainwander]

Happy birthday and I really enjoyed your reasons why certain gear worked or didn't.

[@williamwirick886]

I liked how you were able to upgrade equipment as needed. I would definitely add some extra money to the budget for that extrness. Keep posting! Enjoying every one of them.

[@frostriver4547]

Just finished a 10 day 90+ mile trek in NM. Used body glide instead of powder. Only needed a couple of times, but found the form easier to use. Osprey makes great dry bags, but prefer nylofume liners and use the osprey for bear bags.

[@torimakesmusic]

I like that you called the blue tooth ear buds, air buds XD like the basketball dog

[@waynelougee9528]

Definately the best vlogger on the trail this year! Do you recomend any others still on the trall?

[@aaronfuentes5919]

'Kelly haze hikes' is pretty fun

[@Celtict66]

Been watching since the start and enjoying your wonderful videos and commentary. Happy Birthday! .Thanks Taylor.

[@PInk77W1]

I want to do the AT next spring. I have so many questions. How do u get from Atlanta to the start ? Uber ? How often does it rain ? How far are cities from the trail ? How many permits do u need ? How do u get new shoes when they wear out? How much weight did u carry ? Did u say 13lbs ? That sounds light Anyone with answers Thx

[@byronpyles996]

You are incredible !! Thank You for all you do Nahamsha !

[@nedsled2994]

a lot of people have issues with the zpacks frame packs. I have the nero also, great little pack

[@sablerubycocoa]

Happy birthday, Taylor!!!

[@leroygee2902]

Thanks for all the great info! And hope you had a fantastic birthday!!!

[@gboltonatrail1099]

Congrats on your hike! Love when Thru Hikers do a post trail gear video, so thanks!

[@lizstrailsandtravels4624]

Happy birthday and thanks for sharing

[@fishingtheforecast]

You are the best literally I've enjoyed your through hike from start to finish and even go back and watch some of the older videos I just wanted to tell you what I thought and give you my opinion it's your birthday and being nice to give you a nice compliment you're very well spoken I don't think I ever heard you misspeak you have a very interesting way of talking you would talk the same speed throughout you don't make your videos too long I have a problem watching other videos of other through hikers all the way through and I always finish your videos wishing there was a little bit more so it gets you ready to watch the next one so and you were very punctual very dialed in and you know you could count on your video being there tomorrow and something to watch in the morning with my coffee and that took a lot and so it really speaks a lot to your organization and I said earlier I in one of your videos I called you a cool chic and got reprimanded for it and said I really thought your were dialed in and at this point I think that should be your trail name dialed in that's all I can say and I really consider you an authority and take your opinion and use it to buy my gear and and base my decisions on but anyway happy birthday.

[@straypacket]

Happy Birthday, and thanks for the gear update. I'm also one who packs my fears. BTW - I think "dirt nap" means being dead :)

[@juliefrechette7562]

Happy birthday and thank you for all the informations 🙂

[@safromnc8616]

Happy B-DAy - not sure how you even remembered all of that !

[@OntheWrightPath]

Happy Birthday! Great video. What happened to the thermometer you started the trail with?

[@jimjetsonjr.8213]

I’m soooo glad you posted all of this info. BUT do you think it distracted or hampered your thru hike in any way? Battery packs, cameras tripods ect? Weight? Time?

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

I didn't really bring enough extra equipment to make the videos. I just used my phone. And i was quick at putting the videos out, so I didn't really affect the thru-hike

[@ledbyscouts9197]

Very Informative, Taylor. Thank you.

[@Ride_on54]

That’s why I’m a Nemo Dragonfly fan

[@lindatisue733]

To heck with shoes... real women are into gear. 🤗 Thanks for the advice on the tents. I am shopping for a new one. My tent and sleeping bag was stolen off my bike when I stopped at a Lidl, I didn't tip the door woman.

[@Gingererer]

Happy birthday! Thanks for another great video.

[@suecox8355]

Thanks 🦋❤ Happy Birthday late💐

[@regblann2700]

Agree with Judi Tanner. Can't believe you haven't sent the Arc Air back to Z Packs and demanded a replacement - that's a lot of money for so little use. Do they not have a warranty?

[@melizabeth908]

Happy Birthday! Love gear videos

[@SoloGetHykt]

I used duct tape on the hole on my pack liner until I got a new one. I’ll Always keep a nylofume pack liner because I use it to blow up my sleeping pad. 🙂 So if you ever decide to go back to an inflatable sleeping pad and don’t want to blow it up yourself, use your pack liner. 😉😁 Enjoy the vids.

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

Good info. I'm struggling with my own backpack choices. I have the Arc Blast but also just picked up the HMG 2400. I want UL but I want simplicity and reliability more than anything when I attempt my thru next year. Thank you for sharing and congratulations again!

[@RicardoTorres-en3zn]

I’m between the two myself! Which did you end up going with?

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

@@RicardoTorres-en3zn for my attempt last year I actually used LiteAF 35L. If I had it to do over again I would choose the HMG 2400 bc of the larger carrying capacity. I needed a lot more food after 200 miles or so. My hunger was legit.

[@exploringwithdan7876]

I went with the zpacks plexamid for my Thru-hike next year. Hoping for the best! Nice Video keep it up!

[@erinthetraveler6168]

Great video, really informative. Also, your pup is adorable!

[@ljf29NH]

Happy birthday, Taylor!!🎉Thanks for sharing all your gear info, it's interesting to know all the changes. I use powder all summer, painting houses in the heat. Helps with all the ladder climbing. I'm happy to support local businesses, so I'm happy to know about Burgeon, through you. If you're ever up in Bartlett, check out Ragged Mt. Equipment. Have a great day!

[@scruffybackpacker1299]

I also paint professionally and yeah the powder makes a world of difference

[@tomluppino325]

Happy birthday Taylor!

[@toddschmutz9860]

Do the CDT. I’ll watch it!!!

[@misscandy84]

Hi Taylor. Hope you do more hiking videos

[@chefcocoasadventures8794]

Thank you for the info. And Happy Birthday.♥♥

[@jtact5487]

Happy Birthday!!! 🎂🎈🎁

[@DarrenYee]

Happy Birthday Taylor !!!! Congratulations on your through hike :-)

[@stanthemanhikes2965]

Hey Taylor. Any negative feedback at all for your enlighten buffy? Did it fit did size pretty well?

[@utef.1180]

Thanks for the video. Do you recommend the form pad for a start in February?

[@NickEDowning]

Happy Birthday, Taylor! 27? 28? 29? How would you get your gear on trail? I know your Mom visited pretty frequently so I know she could get you stuff, but is it easy to ship it somewhere north of you and pick it up when you get there?

[@jeremyjs8863]

this is great. very interesting feedback on the gear. thanks

[@TooTall_hikes]

Thoughly enjoyed this video and Happy birthday Taylor! 🍰🧁🎂 I may half to try out hyperlight Sounds like a pretty cool backpack

[@devildog7602]

Happy Birthday Taylor!!

[@corydriver7634]

I’d definitely contact Zpacks to discuss the defective pack. Reading the other comments it sounds like a known problem. Those things are too expensive to just let it go. OBW, I think you misunderstand the term “dirt nap”. Had a good laugh with that one. 🤣😂🤣

[@misscandy84]

Happy birthday Taylor

[@user-vy4xu5ei3k]

Happy Blessed Birthday 🎆🎂🎉

[@1z1zmike]

Great…helpful…thanks…happy birthday 🎉🎊🎁🙂🙏

[@burtwonderstone5315]

Those foam pads seem like they'd be brutal to sleep on. I don't think my hips could take the pressure points.

[@theresalibby3787]

Happy Birthday!!

[@huntertrapperdipper]

I've been curious about those foam sleeping pads? I see most people carry them on the outside, don't they soak up water when it rains?

[@doilysimpkin6972]

No. They're waterproof. Water pretty much runs off them because they're like a plastic based foam. No soaking up of liquid.

[@Craigeek]

Congrats on your thru! Come play on the CDT!

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

The cdt sounds nice!

[@brandonm4664]

You need some additional Polartec garments next time :)

[@trailheart1863]

Thanks for sharing, 😊 Congratulations on your hike and happy birthday ! Hope it was great ! 🎂

[@515aleon]

Always find you interesting somehow doesn't matter that I'm not all that interesting in minutae of gear changes--you do it so well. :) Though the shoe thing is always interesting to me--everyone assumes everyone can do zero drop. Everyone can't. I don't have Salconey but would be much happier wearing them.

[@drasticbread249]

How much total weight were you usually carrying in that Zpacks Arc?

[@j.sargent9172]

Is that a suunto watch? i want the 7 but dont know if its really worth it...

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

I used a garmin vivoactive on the trail and now I have a coros apex pro

[@willbarton4508]

Happy Birthday 🎂 Hope you have a fantastic birthday. God bless.

[@youtubeaddict1234]

I like your red mickey mouse crocs!

[@dougzilla6246]

Happy birthday 🤘

[@joshuabrooks555]

Nice video. Love gear videos. See you out there. ❤️🏔

[@Trumkin42]

You had a survivor buff! 😀🤣

[@patriciamoscato6586]

What brand r the down booties

[@ErnestormExplores]

How did you like the new tent? I have the same one and I think it rules! :)

[@christianb8228]

I opted for the copper spur hv UL2 do you think I made a bad choice kind of thinking I should of went for the tigerwall

[@ErnestormExplores]

@@christianb8228 I worked at REI and the copper spur was more popular o don’t think you made a bad choice !

[@christianb8228]

@@ErnestormExplores ok thanks 😊

[@PM-zu3cz]

Congrats on the finish! This was by far the bougie-est hike I've watched.

[@ljhenley6216]

Hope you had a Happy Birthday!