BACKPACKING GEAR AWARDS 2023

[@DanBecker]

As much as I tried to be thorough, in typical Dan Becker fashion, I forgot a couple things.. Battery Bank... Trowel.. Pants.. 🤦🏻‍♂ So they are listed in the description. Probably forgot more but I'm sure keyboard warriors will let us all know

[@MrTangent]

Was wondering. Maybe a part two? Great reviews, btw!

[@jeremiah1528]

Lol. "I'm a 3rd degree Blackbelt in Keyboard Warrior"..... ( lips moving but not to the correct sound ).... Lips STILL moving..... 😆 🤣

[@sheilasunshine9173]

@@jeremiah1528 😂

[@SpaceCaptnFace]

im greatful you didn't list best backpacking spot. so many areas are getting loved to death by people broadcasting absolutely every spot they come across.

[@privateeye2490]

Try the Peak Refuel meals.

[@mygoldfishdrown5178]

I'm gonna make a video called " gear I cussed at this yr".

[@PopPopTN]

Lol. I'd watch that!

[@DanBecker]

😂👍

[@fjr2004]

Send the link

[@stunnin420ify]

No you won’t/didn’t

[@dayakwarfighter7477]

I will watch that

[@Blk_Raven]

I can say i prefer a headlamp AND a handheld flashlight. Some situations are better for a headlamp, others are better for a handheld. Take both, it's only a few ounces more.

[@toomucheffort100]

And the Award for Best Backpacking Gear And Tips Channel goes to you Dan! Love your style and dry humor!

[@ScottKent]

Thanks for talking up Sawyer again...they are a wonderful company with great products. Using both a BFree and a Squeeze on the Florida Trail I can now say with confidence that the Sawyer will always be my primary from now on. I went through 3 BFree filters during the 1100 mile hike (Florida water is hard on filters), but my Sawyer is still working just great...besides, after looking at the BFree I came to realize that most of the filtering is done by only the section of the filter closest to the mouth piece whereas the Sawyer forces all of the water to travel the full length of the filter.

[@JohnathanAulabaugh]

I think sawyer is great for everywhere in the US except florida. I know a few who have gotten sick using sawyer in FL

[@ScottKent]

@@JohnathanAulabaugh Any filter, as opposed to a purifier, will fail if used on the canals in South Florida. The agricultural runoff, including the chemicals from the fertilizers, are impossible for anything less than a purifier.

[@JohnathanAulabaugh]

@@ScottKent exactly but it’s not just canals. Any water not taken direct from a spring is likely to have ag chemicals in Florida. The St John’s and all of its tributaries run through agricultural land and they are always finding sewage plants where something failed and spilled. My opinion, supported by facts, is that filters alone are not adequate enough for Florida

[@calid.]

Greyl is the only good filter, everything else is crap

[@davee8113]

Thanks!

[@HilltopPacks]

Sweet we made the list!

[@scottkirklin7154]

Epic list - I can second (or third) the praise of the budget-friendly Paria Outdoors Bryce series of tents. Bulletproof and dirt cheap for the high value they provide.

[@davidweidemann7275]

Cumulus equipment is amazing! I have a couple of sleeping bags and a quilt already. The company really cares about the clients satisfaction.

[@GideonSmit]

Love my Cumulus quilt.

[@danielcluley870]

Put the fuel canister valve side down in your pot. The concave bottom will give you a little more room on top to fit more in the stove pot.

[@marcruffet9970]

Thank you Dan. Your transparency and integrity are inspiring. Not to mention the top notch quality you and your Team have produced so far. Long live to your channel and please continue sharing your passion!

[@dougdonaho]

As a beginner I love the fact that you had multiple categories. They may not all apply to me right now but at some point they very well could. I think the small flashlight and the small leather man would be like you said great everyday carries. Thanks for the tips and I look forward to your upcoming videos.

[@rbp6231]

I really enjoyed this video and I love your honesty when something doesn’t work well. I also love that you don’t discount a manufacturer just because one of their items didn’t work well. ie Big Agnes. Keep your integrity and God will continue to bless your channel. Tell your lovely wife we miss seeing her😊

[@agunslinger9349]

Yes!!!! Pinnacle Foods. All amazing, but the chicken cheddar dumplings one is like heaven on trail. My son wants them off trail! I would pay whatever they want for that much filling quality food packing.

[@dairithborquez8265]

I love watching your reviews specially when you mention the space and how it would do with tall people or people over 200lbs my husband is 6’5” and it’s hard to find good reviews for products that are comfy for tall people 😊

[@shaggyterrell8460]

I tried the Helinox and the REI Flexlite air. I really prefer the Flexlite, it’s more comfortable to me. I’m 6’3 and feel like I’m going to flip over backwards on the Helinox. It’s also a little lighter weight and cheaper which is a plus. It’s totally a preference thing, I’d highly suggest just going into REI and trying them both out. Also, great videos!

[@jasonspeer1964]

Hey Dan love the content. Just wondering if you ever thought about doing a video on what good load out for kids day packs would be. Even great gear you have used for your kids?

[@thedaxreinitz]

Yes! Just went on my first backpacking trip ever to Caprock Canyone in West Texas (took many tips from Dan's videos) with my oldest two kids, ages 10 & 8. We had a blast but definitely struggled to get everything packed in/out...especially with no water sources and needing to pack in all our water (we took 4 gallons) for the weekend.

[@slippers.outside]

I have 8 and 11 year olds that I’ve taken out separately, not yet together. Would love to see this!

[@southernohiohiking]

I have 5 sons and we are looking at backpacking starting this spring. Interested as well!!!

[@sanderdekeijzer]

Absolutely great vid! I prefer the Helinox Ground Chair as it’s more stable and doesn’t sink in the ground. Also I use the same Toaks 750/MSR pocket rocket setup and therefore I cook on the ground. The ground chair makes this for me more comfortable as I don’t have to bent over

[@Waveyak]

Hey Dan, I appreciate and respect your equip reviews because they are based on real world testing. So many sites on KZbin do these top ten list, often with some kind of cheesy computer generated voice. How they base their ratings is a big mystery. A lot of amazing gear in this one. Being a gear junky it’s really useful to have this kind of real life feedback. It helps minimize the amount of stuff I want to buy a test for myself. You’ve made a supporter out of me for the Sawyer products. I find their humanitarian efforts really incredible. Keep up the good work. Love all your videos. 👍 Big thank you to you and your team. ❤️

[@billbrayley6836]

Fantastic list! Keep the great videos coming Dan! Very helpful… for me I think the Soto Windmaster as opposed to the Amicus would have closed the gap for best stove because it also closes the gap between the burner and pot 😉.

[@sarahlikescanoes]

I have had the xero z-treks for over a decade now and yes, I do sometimes hike in them, especially after a river crossing in good weather. On many multiday treks I just keep going after the crossing and walk for another kilometre or more to let my feet dry off and give my feet something different. They are also great for exploring around a campsite or checking out a saddle or peak that's only a hundred or so metres in elevation from your tent. Very comfy and I use them when I'm in towns or pre/post-trip. Plus, you can wear them with socks!

[@ozedude7082]

I took the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra all through 2 Hawaiian Island trails (incl Na'pali) and it was by far the easiest pack i've ever hiked difficult mountain trails. Its pretty durable too as i abused it all the way and it also endured sea water and lots of rain. Great pack!

[@MrTBL333]

Great Job Dan!

[@MiaMeezy]

Dan thanks for an awesome gear review! Thanks for sharing what Sawyer is doing, Ive always been a fan of Sawyer now I am for life! God Bless you

[@mtnlover]

I liked seeing your western mountaineering sleeping bag as top (one I haven't tried yet, but their reputation proceeds them). I would be curious to see a comparison between that one and a Feathered Friends sleeping bag, if you ever get the opportunity to try one. We went with Feathered Friends because we live in Washington, and they are based in Seattle. Their reputations seem similar, so we went more local: but I would be curious to hear from someone if they are able to compare them. Thanks for another great video!

[@dennispaine1624]

Both top of the line bags. I have an overstuffed Sequoia. If I were local to Feathered Friends I would have bought one of their bags. I do have a pair of their camp down booties. Like the fact the down sock and overboot can be separated. Keeps my feet nice and warm winter camping!

[@daninsf648]

I have a Feathered Friends semi-rectangular bag which is very comfortable for me at 6'2" to roll around inside while being wrapped in 360º of blissful down-feathered warmth. I can also attest to their amazing customer service.

[@scottsaz]

Hey Dan!! Great list!! I have the Toaks 550ml and can nest a 100g canister (upside down - threads facing the bottom), my Soto Amicus stove, and a mini bic. The lid fits, however you'll need to use the mesh bag or a rubber band to keep it all together. I have a DIY reflective pot cozy that works well for this. Cheers!!

[@hiddenleaf414]

Do you use the Toaks 550ml for personal camping coffee mug? I was just looking at the 550ml and 650ml for that purpose.

[@wanttogo1958]

@@hiddenleaf414 I have the 650. It would be a big mug. The 550 would be a better size if you’re using it only as a mug. Check out the Evernew 400 ml or their 570 ml cups. They are lighter than the Toaks option and you can buy a separate lid for the 570 should you decide to use it for cooking. They both have graduated marks for measuring which is a nice bonus. The 400 will nest inside of the 570.

[@scottsaz]

@@hiddenleaf414 I use the 550ml as my primary pot for boiling water (holds a bt over 2 cups). It's a decent size for a mug but I think they also make a 450ml that might be a better size.

[@patriotichunter6434]

The amicus stove is my go everywhere stove. Use it at lake to fry fresh caught fish with titanium frying pan, use it hiking hunting, fishing scouting, and road trips to make fresh coffee on the road. Thing has held several years and gets used 150 plus days a year for one reason or other. Great video

[@roselee_explores]

Absolutely love the Nitecore headlamp ... by far one of my most used pieces of gear (on and off the trail!). My next favorite is the Toaks Titanium Long Handled Spoon with polished bowl ... absolutely the best eating utensil I've tried/used backpacking. Great video!

[@NTB_Retro]

I have the Toaks titanium long handled spork with polished bowl. It’s great!

[@MrSportdiver]

Lovely video! New to the sport so I need as many info as I can get! Thank you for your time!

[@HippieHikerChik]

I’m so glad to hear that the ZenBivy made your list. ❤ It’s the only piece of gear that I haven’t switched out since I first started backpacking. I have the 25* lite and the 10* lite. My 25 was in need of replacing so I purchased the 25* core for the upcoming season. You can’t beat ZenBivy, especially if you’re a side sleeper or toss & turn a lot.

[@jukkavv]

Camera and lights make new studio look really great! And Dan is the best! And so is the Eric ... Darn I cant decide 😉

[@Thumpermad]

By Far the Best review I've seen anywhere on KZbin thanks Man. I love checking out the Premium gear available and seeing how close other brands can come to it the closest hiking store that we have in Australia is like Mountain Designs there's a few niche stores that are prohibitively expensive so pleased I came across your channel just for the record I am an ADV Motorcycle Guy who loves the tech cheers mate Happy Trails

[@deekelley891]

That was a lot of work! Thank you for the information gleaned from real life. Since I am only a well-prepared out-and-back hiker, most of this isn’t applicable to me, but it’s always good to learn new things. And there are products here I do use as well. I am very interested in the shoes, as I’m a Keen’s boot gal interested in a sufficiently sturdy running shoe. Many people seem to be going that direction now days.

[@DanBecker]

Keen makes great stuff as well! I have several of their boots

[@jeremiah1528]

Brooks are the most comfortable shoe you will ever wear.... they're made very well too ❤️.... There's a reason foot doctors recommend them so much....

[@GideonSmit]

Keen hiking shoes served me well for years. I have not tried the Brooks shoes, haven't seen them for sale in England yet. The last few pairs of Keens have been less comfortable than I expected. So lately (the last 2 seasons) I have been wearing Topo Athletic Trailventure. For my feet (wide) they are so much more comfortable. I think also more durable than Altra.

[@robertturner8184]

Love this list, Dan. Thanks for all the great content you create!

[@Funkteon]

You're absolutely right about the Sawyer Squeeze - Nothing, literally, nothing beats it when all things are considered. And paired with a 3L 'Browns Bushcraft Millbank Bag' for pre-filtering, you won't even need to backwash your Sawyer...

[@JeremyMcGehee]

Super helpful thanks, I traded out 2 pieces. I'm starting PCT next week, so I'm grateful, thanks again

[@Mike_Blanda]

Congratulations on your 300k subscribers!!!! I also ordered that OV quilt and I am so excited to use it

[@DanBecker]

Thank you!!

[@bauhausoffice]

Dan, of course I subscribe and I got to say man you are incredible. I’ve got to say thank you. Every time I watch and listen to one of your shows I think God I’ve got to thank this guy he’s amazing. All the best to you in this new year thanks for all these excellent reviews you’ve guided me Through my journeys. Cheers.

[@JCrozier1]

Super long video, but totally worth it. I'm definitely interested in some base layer stuff, as I'm learning about Merino wool right now. I definitely need to buy some of these products. Thanks so much.

[@Away.Aweigh.A.Way.]

I switched to merino base layers this year and I’m never going back. They’re SO good. My favorite is just a Smartwool 150 short sleeve t-shirt.

[@JCrozier1]

@@Away.Aweigh.A.Way. How did you pick a brand? There are so many choices out there.

[@Away.Aweigh.A.Way.]

@@JCrozier1 good question. The answer is that I just tried a bunch on and went with the most comfortable. Bonus is that Smartwool is super popular, so you can find them on sale all the time from REI and other outfitters. Other brands I liked with similar market shares are Icebreaker, Minus33, and REI themselves. I actually just looked it up and Smartwool has the exact shirt I wear on sale right now. “Men’s Merino Short Sleeve Tee”

[@JCrozier1]

@@Away.Aweigh.A.Way. just looked at Minus33. Finally, i find a company that makes big boy sizes.. THANKS!!

[@nathanj9354]

Thank you. We love products reviews. You are fair with all your expectations. Keep the videos coming. 💯🔥🙌✊👍🙏

[@georgemartin1498]

Thanks for your evaluations Dan! I learn something every day from someone. For other viewers I would like to add this: if you want and can afford the best sleeping bag, then you should get a Western Mountaineering bag. I have two: the Alpinlight 20deg. and -10deg. I have at least a half dozen other brand models, all very good, but none equal or surpass the long term performance of the WM bags!

[@mojosdad68]

Always enjoy your vids Dan. Thanks for the Flextail discount code, just bought the new 2X model in KTM orange!

[@dennispaine1624]

Fun video Dan. I actually ordered the Flextail pump with your discount code. I normally inflate my winter mat with the cover bag but have wanted to try a mini pump. Thanks, agree with many of your choices.

[@jacobkazmierczak9325]

Hey Dan, just wanted to say you have really inspired me and educated me on backpacking. I am also from SE Wisconsin and you have shown me what I have available around me to go backpacking! Thanks!

[@hiddenleaf414]

I live in Milwaukee, WI and this show has really helped me out a lot too! Where are your go to places in WI?

[@troutworkshop]

Dan you’re the best and this is the best list!

[@MOOSE-00]

Great video, tank you. great short review of the items you picked. much love from denmark

[@00brs]

5:54 Speaking of Cumulus sleeping bag. The brand is from Poland and all their sleeping bags are made there. The main reason is that Poland is known for making highest quality down feathers. In fact a lot of non-Polish brands also use down filling made in Poland. Cumulus is one of top tier brands but there are also others: Pajak and Malachowski that are making really good stuff. Biggest advantage of Polish down sleeping bags is that you get top quality for a resonable price. Also Cumulus give you option to customize your sleeping bag or create one using your specification.

[@shawnblanc2051]

14:21 All the cook pots I own have the rubber covers on the handles and don’t need gloves. Do the Toaks cook pots need a bandana or gloves to handle after boiling water? Or do the handles stay cool when swung out?

[@richardburkow3792]

Thanks Dan - great video.

[@Away.Aweigh.A.Way.]

For me, I have a new favorite layering system. Assuming I’m not super exposed and need my OR Echo hoodie, the rest of the time I’ve found the perfect setup for me, which is a Smartwool 150 short sleeve t-shirt as my base layer, followed by a Senchi Designs Wren hoodie. Oh my god. I can’t believe it took me so long to find alpha direct fabric but it is 100% the best active midlayer ever made. You look a bit like a muppet, but nothing is more comfortable. Then I pack either my Outdoor Vitals Vario hoodie or my Ghost Whisperer depending on how cold it’s going to be, and round it out with the Montbell Versalite rain jacket. I’ve struggled for years to find the perfect layering system and for me, this is it.

[@wanttogo1958]

I’ve read the Alpha Direct doesn’t hold up well when worn under a pack unless you add a hard shell on top. Do you wear your Senchi while backpacking or just in camp/as a sleeping layer?

[@Away.Aweigh.A.Way.]

@@wanttogo1958 hey sorry just saw this. Yes I wear it while on the move. It’s a perfect active layer. I’ve put a few hundred miles on it and haven’t noticed any signs of wear anywhere.

[@murphreport]

I love my zero's. I have done 14 miles in them, it trail permits. Zero has great selection

[@DaleSheltonsPage]

Thanks for doing this. May I suggest next year you move it up to November? This would be great right before black Friday.

[@Ginvilla]

5:41 Cumulus Panyam 600 has fill of 850 class Polish White Goose Down, which is equal to american 950 standard. European and american standards are bit different in numbers, but in fact are the same. Something like differences in land and nautical miles :-) Polish White Goose Down is considered as best sleeping bag filling. Panyam 600 sleeping bag is fabulous as well.

[@axcx5951]

Malachowski sleeping bags are also great, especially Ultralight series.

[@Ginvilla]

@@axcx5951 That's rights. I own Małachowski UL300 and UL900 and are best in its class.

[@ms7fam433]

Glad you are sooo definitive... I couldn't agree more...and disagree more with your picks. That's what makes these videos fun. Thanks for continuing to introduce us to such a variety of gear.

[@visnuexe]

Add up the cost of your list, picking one if you have several for a category and let us know the total so we can go to the bank and take out a loan to be best outfitted! LOL! It's really nice that some of your choices showed you cared more about quality than a given brand of packing supplies. Thank you!

[@cozmiqwizard4613]

That was great! I normally like to see what the best gear options are for the year are and do my upgrades to my gear that way. Awesome video period!!

[@Bnasst]

That flex tail pump is also the best way to stoke your fire. The battery life is awesome. I've used it for like 3 hours on and off, stoking a fire with wet wood!

[@LadyGreyAgeingDisGracefully]

I live in tropical weather so shorts and t shirt are a must but after my first leech experience last month I’m leaning towards long sleeves and pants now. The best is what suits the environment.

[@kayakcobber524]

Always wears t-shirt combined with a longsleeve blouse. Keeps it comfortable.

[@zacchaeusm4085]

Awesome stuff man! I have the Soto Windmaster lightweight and Soto Thermastack as my cooking set.

[@ropersix]

Stoked to learn about that Cumulus Panyam. I've been wanting a quality 20 degree down bag, but haven't been wanting to pay the $600 for that WM Alpinlite. So I'll check out that Cululus one, which I've never heard about before.

[@baca4490]

because of your videos and maybe one other backpack gear video i purchased the mini pump and i LOVE it!! it works perfect for my air pads and other things.... i did try it on a full size air mattriss and its not quite strong enough for that but thats fine. i do want to find a vacume bag that will work with it (the ones at walmart didnt work). not to mention the light on it is perfect for small tents!!

[@robnitz8300]

Great knowledge, thanks Dan! Editing was primo, thanks Emmett !

[@DanBecker]

Rob!! Thanks my friend!!

[@devildog17013]

That was definitely an excellent, comprehensive list. Another good one would be a "Best Of" list for 2022-2023 listing the same items, but with lower priced, "best bang for the buck", items. I know you did show some less costly, almost just-as-good items, but I'm referring to an entire list of comparable, lower priced gear. In any case, this video was excellent and very informative. Thank you!

[@DanBecker]

Thanks! And it’s in the works currently!!!

[@devildog17013]

@@DanBecker Sweet! Good to go. I happily await its release.

[@user-fn9nq9wk6l]

very comprehensive list. the paria tent looks like a really good deal. thanks, dan.

[@arlenesolis024]

I have followed your recommendations, and they are great. I got the air mattress pump, a coat that I never take off, and so many more. I have to get my wallet ready to go shopping 🛒

[@scottrock27]

Patting myself on the back for adding a few items from this list for my bikepack trips last year. Your reviews certainly helped!!

[@brianfoley4262]

This was a great video, tons of really good information. Thanks!

[@ewmetzler]

Another plug for the Cumulus Panyam 600 - when you order a bag from Poland, they will customise it for you. I am a side sleeper so I ordered more down in the back of the sleeping bag. And it’s amazing that it only cost $19 to ship from Poland! And it’s RDS down.

[@Max-lf4br]

with the Sea to Summit watercells, i believe the MSR dromedary kit works as an adapter to turn it into a hydration pack, however i myself haven't been able to test it.

[@DNGR369]

I've seen heaps of complaints about the MSR one. Leaking and just low quality etc. They look cool so that's sad but S2S have high quality control and are much better brand anyway.

[@HermannKerr]

I cannot say I would agree on everything but you brought a few things to my attention that I had not considered. But add in "The equipment you already have is the best, because it is free.". I hate canister stoves because most of it is junk (the canister). I have gone through more stoves that I can count and under most conditions the Trangia is a fine stove with piles of setups. Western Mountain make the best sleeping bags (2 - my first one was stolen) I have ever owned. When it comes to your headlight choice I cringe because it has built-in batteries mind you that pocket flash like looks super cool. Good reviews.

[@billprice6458]

Pretty good list. The tarptent double rainbow li Has to be on any shortlist for best tent though.

[@xmetal280]

Nice list! I am generally an ultralight kind of guy but do sneak in some luxurious things here and there that make my life easier, and I had not seen that little air pump/light combo. That is fricken awesome, I love dual purpose items and a compact lantern and easier way to pump up my pad is just perfect. Ordered. :)

[@sholland88862]

Yes your the best Dan!

[@paulmason6860]

Would be great to see you try an Aarn Featherlite freedom pro pack from New Zealand with the balance pockets. They aren't as light as some ultralight packs but the load is balanced better so that you carry it more efficiently.

[@bcloetta]

Great all round list. We share love for many of the same companies and products. I bought the zero sandals and they are great, but I plan to try some fitflop water shoes (think cheap Walmart swim shoes) this season only because the sandals are so hard to put on and take off in a hammock🙄. I also carry the OV quilt. Mine is 0 degrees…a little heavy but oh so warm and comfy! I’m cheap, but sprung for the Durston 1p pro and can’t wait to take it out. I’m keeping my old Durston as a loaner for friends.

[@Swearengen1980]

The downside is every KZbin channel is they completely ignore an entirely different market that has a huge overlap in gear: Hunting. Companies like Kuiu make outstanding products and do have light gear alongside heavy. I wouldn't trade my puffy or pack from Kuiu for anything on these lists (and I've tried some of them).

[@bcloetta]

@@Swearengen1980 Oh 100%. I don't own any Kuiu but have a friend who uses lots of their gear. Wool sun hoodies: Duckworth (fly fishing)--light, comfy, good looking! I don't fish.

[@bobbanker4830]

Dan, that is the best list and you are the best.

[@heidiedwards9383]

That zen bivy looks amazing!!! Definitely adding it to my wish list!

[@markheseltine8030]

Hey Dan , I love your videos but its costing me a fortune buying new gear. LOL My wife and I used to use the Thermorest pillow until we saw a video on My Life Outdoors. We discovered the Nemo Fillow pillow and its soooooooo good! Give it a try if you already haven't. We also have the Zenbivy bed, and together its awesome. Keep up the great work. BTW, you should come camping in Algonquin park in Ontario Canada. I'm sure you would love it!

[@WombatBrunft]

Always mindblowing to see how much cheaper, not saying really cheap, the equipment is in the US e.g. the Hyperlight Southwest is $520 here in Germany. Same goes for much of the other UL gear.

[@I_Am_Bone]

I really enjoyed your Sawyer Africa video. I watched after purchasing another brand who also supplies their filter to those in need, but will be grabbing a Sawyer as back-up/alternate.

[@DNGR369]

Sawyer has the smallest membranes of all filters on the market. They are actually superior, not just generous.

[@mbcinokc2393]

Fun video, thanks!

[@BrandonN86]

the sawyer squeeze may not be the most efficient filter but it is reliable and simple and packable ! good choices on gear

[@wayofthehike]

Love the advice on the dehydrated food and the Fizan trekking poles. Gonna try both of ‘em.

[@davidshirley6850]

Such a good list , so much detail given out thanks! Only add for me is the appalachian gear alpaca hoodie as a midlayer

[@ericnoakes7235]

Hey Dan here is an upgrade to your diamond spot. I use to run that headlamp until I found this company FENIX LIGHTING. Any of their lights blow black diamonds lights out of the water. They utilize the 21700 batteries that light up the world and have super long run times.

[@timv8149]

Thanks Dan, I watch all your videos but this end of year list I personally like the best! We all as backpackers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts love your content!! Great job, keep it coming. "I would like to see Western Mountaineering develop more options into their bags. I like allot of the options and the dimensions on my Sea to Summit ACIII I only wish it was 950 down rather than 750 and a real pocket internal or external for something big enough for a cell phone. That way the same space can fit my water filter, chap-stick, headlamp etc. " Thank you again! See you on the trail one day.

[@ck2106]

Good stuff, thank you guys!

[@BackpackingandBlisters]

Thanks Dan! A lot of good things on this list I"m excited to check out!

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

Best socks? As for medical bag I tend to buy a basic one and change up what I want to have included. First thing I add is a tourniquet. Then I add the poison ivy scrubs and Epi. Being a paramedic I carry more than I need. Great list though.

[@viktor.egelund]

On socks I give a vote to the *Smartwool PhD* collection. Not on durability - but for fit, function and comfort.

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

@Viktor Egelund I'm starting to fall in love with the Darn Tough merino wool socks. Comfortable and life time warranty. Need that in this field.

[@viktor.egelund]

@@robynroamsoutdoors Good choice.

[@mbeckde]

Darn tough socks are way too tight

[@nicholas6552]

@@mbeckde they come in different sizes…

[@alvinasistio2657]

For headlamp, I am using Olight's Perun 2 Mini and it is really amazing. It has a high IP rating for dust and water ingress, high lumens, red light, SOS, magnetic charging, etc. The magnetic end is also useful at times.

[@aleksandrsnaidjonovs1462]

Hi Dan, what happened to Nemo Tensor Insulated being your fav sleeping pad? It weighs ~500g (17oz), it has R value of 4.2, it's wide and comfortable. Any particular reason you have stopped using it?

[@drcattyish]

Experience of hillwalking and camping in Scotland means I love a totally bomb proof waterproof jacket and I have a selection of waterproof trousers (rain pants) for every type of weather. My best rain jacket for Scottish rain is a child's jacket I bought second hand for £5 which has been perfect in drenching sleet.

[@sherrycook7043]

I have one of the Walmart spoons and love it. I wanted to pick up a few more but I haven't been able to find them in the last three months. Online it's showing out of stock. I hope they show up again in the spring. After watching this vid I'm going to get the water pack. I've been thinking about it and your review showed me what I needed. Thanks for your terrific reviews and all the things you show us about backpacking.

[@sneakybow1]

Hydrapak Seeker is another one to take a look at for water storage. They've been out a lot longer than the S2S system.

[@johnoswaldfebresjr.4318]

Can you review the KULH “The One” series? Or the Radikl Outside pants? I want to find the best gear for a go bag in ANY situation.

[@viktor.egelund]

5:11. Good point about the width of the Western Mountaineering Alpinlite. I use the Versalite 6'6". For a while with the bag expander wedge, but now back to using it without. An overfilled Alpinlite is close to my optimal all-around bag. Badger MF if you want even more space.

[@stephenmorris6202]

OK, you have now persuaded me to buy the wee pump, but I have a query about the pot. You recommend a Toaks pot, but I think you also use an Evernew pot and I was curious about your choice?

[@raulf195]

Hola Dan, te felicito por el ranking que has elaborado, no sabía de la marca Paria, la buscaré y la probaré en los Andes de mi país Perú. Saludos campeón

[@KennyShackelford]

Thanks for this info. Merry Christmas!!!

[@rjeepster8640]

I’m surprised I’ve never seen you try the Ex Ped down pad. I love mine!

[@rodrigosilveira4360]

For me, that watched your videos every week, I was well surprised by the new gears on the list. I liked the big anes duffle bag and the camp shoes. I can find similar items here in Brazil, and can use the idea.