Backpacking Through A Super Bloom: How Good is Zenbivy Couples Sleep System?

Gear in this video
Zenbivy Double bed: bit.ly/3UprK25
Osprey Aura 65 (Kristi's pack): bit.ly/3GjpLGF
Osprey Kestrel 48 (Eric's pack): bit.ly/40Xl652
Mountainsmith K-9 pack: bit.ly/3PKgUzq
MSR Hubba 3P tent:
Hyperlite Camera Pod: bit.ly/3nPPHmY
Merrel Moab Speed (Eric's shoe): bit.ly/3KxwZsT
AKU Rocket DFS (Kristi's shoe): bit.ly/3zymH5G
BruTrek Pourover coffee: bit.ly/410ZmVX
WileyX sunglasses: bit.ly/3m5hWxe
Cotopaxi sun hoodie: bit.ly/3nL6Qy1
Fjallraven Keb Agile trousers: bit.ly/3Jv8tZn
Pinnacle Foods: pinnaclefoods.co/
Hillsound BTR stool: bit.ly/40FEML6
Grand Trunk 360 stool: bit.ly/3Gmbl8z
Kristi and I headed to the Superstition Mountains of southern Arizona to test backpacking gear and to see the super bloom in full effect after an abnormally wet winter. The flowers were out. The birds were singing. And it was glorious.
Gear I have tested and recommend:
Backpacks and Hiking Gear:
Mystery Ranch Bridger 65: bit.ly/3mPhNdY
Komperdell Explorer Contour trekking poles
Tents and Camping Gear:
Big Agnes Copper Spur bit.ly/3XWSpn4
Durston X Mid trekking pole tent durstongear.co...
Sea to Summit Ascent AcII Sleeping Bag: 15F Down bit.ly/3JTea1h
Zenbivy 25 Degree Lightbed zenbivy.com/pr....
Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated Sleeping Pad bit.ly/3DbbCcO
Sea to Summit Aeros Down Pillow bit.ly/34n4749
Clothing:
Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket bit.ly/3iwmivF
Big Agnes Zetto Ultralight Down Jacket www.bigagnes.c....
Arc-teryx Beta Rain Jacket
Outdoor Research Echo Hoodie bit.ly/3XR4WZm
Fjallraven Keb Agile Trouser
Coalatree Trailhead Pants coalatree.com/....
AKU Selvatica Mid GTX Hiking Boots bit.ly/3eSMmvy
Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock bit.ly/3qLVyaI
Hestra Bike Ergo Grip Tactility Glove amzn.to/3GWeADc
Camp Kitchen:
MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove bit.ly/34mBc06
Sea to Summit Alpha Pot - 1.9 Liters bit.ly/3tdCZ23
Sea to Summit Watercell X bit.ly/3wv3ost
Platypus Big Zip EVO Reservoir Water Bladder bit.ly/3t2SrxF
Grayl Geopress Water Purifier bit.ly/3DbOCun
Lifestraw Peak Squeeze Water filter straw bit.ly/3Bjk88U
Pinnacle Foods Freeze dried food pinnaclefoods.co/
Vosteed Nightshade Folding Knife amzn.to/3J7XOnn
Matador 8L Flatpack matadorup.com/....
Trail Gear:
Ledlenser Neo 5R Headlamp amzn.to/3Jd8Pnu
Vargo Titanium Dig Dig Tool bit.ly/3UGgFYO
Zoleo Satellite Communicator amzn.to/3WBDRIK
Special thanks to my Global Partners for supporting my mission of inspiring and educating people to get on the trail and enjoy the benefits of sustainable outdoor adventure.
Wiley X: www.wileyx.com/
Mystery Ranch: www.mysteryran...
Cotopaxi: www.cotopaxi.com/
BeanVivo: beanvivo.com/
NOTE: These are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it's a great way to show your support. Thanks!
Produced By
Heliconia Productions: www.heliconia.ca/
[e-mail]
Follow me on social media
Instagram: / epictrails365
Facebook: / epictrails365
Blog: in4adventure.com/

[@earndoggy]

The comfort of the dog is my number one priority! I haven't even bothered to learn to use a hammock because I always have big dogs and I'm never sleeping where my dog can't sleep with me.

[@arthurrsaker8893]

Me too Jean: my boy, a golden retriever from working stock, is always at my side, where I go , he goes too, and his gentle affectionate nature wins him new friends almost every day and leads me to friends I would otherwise never have met. This video is a perfect "how to" instructional on the blending of visuals with appropriate sound-track music, so achingly beautiful in how it adds another layer of pleasure to the visual feàst. So many you tube videographers waste the excellence of their cinematic skills by adding dumb, ineptly chosen thud music, that is, in its expression, the opposite of what they portray on screen. And does anyone ever stop to ask themselves if "music" is always necessary? It would seem not. Silence with the sounds of the natural world can be more effective ways of illustrating the atmospheric beauty of the trail, so for trek, trail and hike videos, please guys leave your favourite crude high energy noise at home. It just doesn't work with the subtleties of the natural world.

[@Dendrolycopodiumd]

I would like to start a petition for Kovu to be in every video :D He's such a cutie!

[@BackpackingTV]

I hear that! Backpacking with him is super fun! We'll do some more this summer.

[@Dendrolycopodiumd]

@@BackpackingTV I mean, I know it's not realistic for him to be in every video, I'm sure he is busy with his own career. But you can always just green-screen him in to all the videos. I'm sure no one will notice anything weird about it and will just appreciate his presence 😝

[@earndoggy]

I'll sign it!!

[@FLannelClad]

Change of pace from the normal gear/story/tutorial videos. I really dig it. Great visuals and pace. Would definitely like to see more of this type of content!

[@BackpackingTV]

thank you! I'm glad to hear the feedback. More are coming!

[@RealBoiJare]

You’re so lucky to have such nice areas so close to where you live. That’s awesome you’re taking advantage of it! Makes me think maybe I need to move somewhere better

[@IdRatherBeHiking]

I like this style of testing video, nice cinematography Eric.

[@BackpackingTV]

Thank you so much!

[@proudlyindian001]

I LOVE HER SMILE ❤😘

[@steveh5169]

I loved the pump filter! Brings back old memories. I still have my old Sweetwater Guardian. You do a great job, your videos never obsess over weight or what items you are supposed to "ditch". Love the scenery. Your girlfriend/wife-to-be is a badass hiker and she's got a cool dog! Thanks.

[@JCrozier1]

cool vid. Nice to see something that isnt super light for a change.

[@MichelleCTorresGrant]

Excellent video! I've liked all of your videos, but I am especially enjoying your new cinematic style that still contains useful gear and hiking information. Thank you. 🙂

[@BackpackingTV]

Right on Michelle, I appreciate hearing that!

[@cheeseburgerwalrus499]

Such a beautiful dog

[@BackpackingTV]

He's a handsome fella, that's for sure!

[@cheeseburgerwalrus499]

@@BackpackingTV 10/10. That is a perfect specimen of a canine. Truly a wonder of nature.

[@chrismoore600]

Yep that time of year looking forward to an outdoor adventure.

[@BackpackingTV]

It's time to get out there!

[@yunspianoservice]

What a lovely team! It is a blessing to enjoy the outdoors together! So happy for you guys! Nice views out there, blue sky, dirty dirt ground, clear stream... thank you!

[@BackpackingTV]

Thank you! We work pretty well together!

[@markrico1917]

Loved this one, please do more like this! Gear reviewed as a small piece of the context of a trip rather than as the main focus of the video is a huge value-add.

[@BackpackingTV]

Glad to hear it. I've been really enjoying the slower, more cinematic style. More are coming!

[@RC-qf3mp]

Agreed. This is the kind of video you can send friends and family who don’t even hike.

[@huzaifaazhar5776]

First time watching your video, Really enjoyed.

[@waynecatt602]

Love your channel, my wife and I definitely need that sleep system!

[@rodrev_hiking6757]

Wonderful video . I liked the music , the landscapes , the Dog , your Girlfriend is very sympathic. Me and my girl liked to watch this video very much , great content

[@JustJ001]

Beautiful time of year in the desert!

[@chrismoore600]

Good to see you too out for a trip you guys make a great team. You did good brother.

[@BackpackingTV]

Thank you so much! The three of us will do more trips together over the summer.

[@donnajess]

I find myself checking my KZbin subscription feed every day looking for your videos, and I get so excited when I see you've posted a new one! Great content and stunning visuals. Kudos, my friend!

[@BackpackingTV]

Well thank you so much Donna! I appreciate hearing that.

[@billbarrett7772]

Really well shot and beautiful music. Thanks for sharing Eric, great video.

[@WesleyKor9]

Absolutely upped the game with videography! Great work 👍🏻

[@ghjk193]

I really like this type of video perfectly captures the beauty of hiking combined with gear testing. Its like the perfect video. Great work.

[@RealBoiJare]

I definitely vouch for Osprey’s air flow system as well. My back no longer overheats easily in the summer time or the winter when I’m all bundled up. Works great

[@jeffs4483]

Great hike and great filmmaking.

[@g02g]

nature is so beautiful

[@emonty62]

I enjoy your cinematography style, very pleasant to watch!

[@BackpackingTV]

Thank you! Channeling my inner BBC nature documentary.

[@WolfPackM98c]

Was just out there a couple weeks ago. Wildflowers in full bloom and water everywhere. Great time to be in the Supes Edit: Hah! I just noticed you guys stayed your first night in the exact spot we did.

[@BackpackingTV]

That's wild! Didn't look like that trail had been used a lot lately. Much less traffic than the Dutchman trail.

[@WolfPackM98c]

@@BackpackingTV That’s why we were on it 😆 most of the traffic going to Peralta TH is heading towards Weaver’s Needle. I like to get away from the crowds when Im out there

[@nickhikesinthewoods6150]

Such a great video it's beautiful out there you guys was talking about the osprey backpack I have the osprey rook they do have the best ventilation system and they carry weight fantastic

[@BackpackingTV]

Thanks Nick, yeah it's stunning out there right now. Glad to hear you're enjoying the Osprey pack! They're quality!

[@annarborthenorris5455]

You are in my backyard. I recognized every rock formation. So cool! I think I will look into that sleep system. We take our golden retriever, and I loved seeing all the room and hearing about the comfort. Thank you so much for this video. After 30 plus years, I know approximately where you camped, and we will see if we can follow in your footsteps very soon. I have watched lots of your videos... time to subscribe

[@BackpackingTV]

It's a great system for backpacking with a dog! And heck yeah! go track down our spot! It was a great place, loved it.

[@Gambeli02]

Beautiful trail. I have the Osprey Aether AG pack. The airflow is great, but I've never met a piece of equipment that I didn't have to modify in some way... I found the AG mesh back doesn't provide enough lumbar support. I carved down a pool noodle to shove into that space. Much better! Finally, always enjoy watching a dog.

[@BackpackingTV]

huh, a pool noodle eh? Interesting hack!

[@elr05]

I appreciate the mellow content. For me personally, the added track of bird sounds at times where you wouldn’t have heard birds was irritating. But I appreciate your artistic streak ;)

[@billseay6399]

Hey Thanks love it big guy

[@backwoodscanuck]

Love the channel and your a huge inspiration of mine thanks man and stay safe on them trails

[@BackpackingTV]

I really appreciate hearing that! Thank you so much!

[@wingmanhoy3999]

Awesome beautiful vlogging, hiking, scenery and gear review, very much enjoying your channel, all the very best to you and yours, health and happiness.

[@BackpackingTV]

Thank you so much!

[@jammuu]

I got the zenbivy light bed it’s awesome, nice to see a review of the full size system. I might get it for car camping!

[@BackpackingTV]

It would be so good for car camping, or just for having an extra bed around the house?!

[@nicksam5518]

I have the lightbed from zenbivy, and it is my favorite. I also use a thermrest(yellow curry and xtherm), and the long wide Nemo tensor. I love my zenbivy the best.

[@thurstonhowell9782]

Wonderful time to live in the desert. We’ve been enjoying the bloom and the runoff waterfalls. Now if only summer would stay away so it’s not 120 degrees in a couple months.

[@BackpackingTV]

We pay for two months of absolute glory in the spring time for six months of brutal, oven-like heat. But those two months are the best!

[@shawnnimmer8170]

I had been all over the superstitions, but did this same trail, but up through that upper la barge canyon back in January. It was epic. I loved the ascent up to the saddle where you connect with whiskey springs. All the green on that trail was great.

[@BackpackingTV]

Nice! Such a great area.

[@toddbelanger1923]

Love this...huge fan of all your videos... I learn a ton and buy a lot of your recommendations so thank you very much.And please more videos like this one would be great..if possible of course.

[@BackpackingTV]

So glad to hear it Todd, more videos like this will be coming!

[@Logan_MZR]

Awesome video! Love all your content but I would be a huge fan of more of this style content.

[@BackpackingTV]

Glad to hear it! I'm working this style into the videos more.

[@douglasconrad8969]

Love this kinda video!

[@BackpackingTV]

thank you!

[@BryanDeLay]

Congratulations on a great backpacking trip Wes!

[@BackpackingTV]

Thank you!

[@markthomas2436]

One of the great things about camping with a romantic partner is you can share the load of the trip. You only need one stove, one tent, one large sleeping bag, one large air mattress, etc. This trip had everybody, including the dog, sharing the weight. That bed looked fabulous. Looked like it would absolutely work... for sleep, AND the bumping. Who would not like doing that? Go out in the wilderness with a dog and your steady. Beats the hell outta going out there alone, if you ask me.

[@bmwman63]

Very cool. We were out at South Mountain and it also was full of wild flowers. Nice to see every once in a while in our normally brown desert. I think that is the 700ml Bot pot. I was thinking of one of those. I guess if you are careful with them, they are suitable for cold soaking. I was thinking of taking some rubberizing compound to the handles. I'm still researching that option. Thanks for making the video.

[@kylegohawks8604]

Nice vid. We just got our zenbivy light bed double 25°. Tried it out in the yard couple weeks ago. Got down to 30° in western washington. We were perfectly comfortable. We used our thermarest neoair xlite pads. Hopefully get to try on the trail soon. Been raining to much

[@BackpackingTV]

Thanks! Yeah I was definitely impressed with the system. It got pretty chilly on us out there but we were happy and comfy.

[@RC-qf3mp]

Great video and audio quality. Professional. The dog should get a camera. It’s so awesome to see a dog’s eye view. Surprised he doesn’t have a sun umbrella out there. Maybe he’s addressed why he doesn’t bring one . Great editing. Respect.

[@nebc_yukonyeti]

From the Northern BC Rockies where there is still a ton of late season snow, thanks so much for this. The sunshine, the greenery & Kovu. 🥾🏔❤️🇨🇦

[@BackpackingTV]

Down in the desert we'll be mighty jealous of you all in about two months!

[@sundogstudioArt]

Beautiful video! The music is a perfect complement. Would you share the source of this lovely soundtrack?

[@GenX_outdoors]

Great video. Love the mix of trip footage and some gear review. I’d love for Kristy to try the Zpacks Women’s Arc Haul. Of course, she’d probably need to lighten her load some, but it’d be interesting to hear her comparison and thoughts on a lighter pack.

[@RC-qf3mp]

Yeah, an Arc Haul with the extra padding and lumbar support. Very comfortable up to 30 lbs. I never carry more anyway.

[@heidih2887]

Stunning scenery/amazing flower blooms! Wonderful video to watch! :D I imagine that some years have more flowers than others depending on weather, but you timed THIS trip perfectly! :D Will there be more info in another video re: the ladies' backpack? I'd be interested to know what sorts of adjustments helped reduce the hip/waste chafing/bruising. Did the torso length need to be tweaked a bit, or was it more a matter of adjusting position of pack contents and shoulder straps/load lifters etc.? Inquiring minds want to know! :D

[@paisleyfamily5972]

Good reviews. One tip for hip belt rubbing is to tuck your t shirt into your pants. I have found that cures the problem.

[@MrMegafrost]

Awesome video! What is Kovu's collar? It looks beautiful.

[@JarradShaw]

Man… my videos are so very similar to this particular style. I love it personally. It’s shows off the surroundings more along with how you are experiencing the adventure. I don’t have your followers (much deserved) and I don’t show off gear… but Oh well maybe one day I will get a few folks who like what I produce on my channel and have some folks who share the same ideas and feels ❤ Love you what you two (three) do. 😊 And man(!) again I love this beautiful blend of video styles. PS: curious about your lens. Is it like a 16 or to 35? Or is it more. Your wife shots and close ups of flowers so spot on pretty, but vlogs (that 16-20 ish range) you see the black vignetting. It still looks amazing Erik so please don’t fret. Just noticing. Much love

[@doloreshunt8676]

I want the dog! :-)

[@BackpackingTV]

Can't have him! He's the best though!

[@maggiemyrtlebeach2701]

I want to go for adventure!!! And this sleeping system looks so comfortable like almost all what you need perfect set. Well now I need to purchase one ☝️. You guys are the best !!! Do you have Amazon store? If not you should totally have it. I would buy it all that you guys recommend.

[@BackpackingTV]

Well thanks! I don't have an Amazon store, but the links in the video description are mostly affiliate links, so I'd earn a small amount if you purchased from the links above. Thank you!

[@staysalty5192]

Love your videos do you have a web site for your photography images

[@Colby168]

I have an Osprey 65 Atmos and I’m new so still learning. HATE the hip belt! It’s so ridged and bruises my hips. Even when I unbuckle to try and relieve pain the stupid this is still hugging me. I watched you backpacking adjusting video so I’m going to try some of that next. Love the pack but hate the belt. Maybe I missed it but what trail were you on? Looked like off Peralta.

[@Aestheticnerdlife]

You need to try out the Alaska Guide Creations large binocular chest rig its the best way to carry cameras. I use one to carry my Sony A7IV with a 24-105 mm it even has side pockets for extra batteries and memory cards.

[@BackpackingTV]

nice recommendation! can you just clip it to your pack or do you have to wear the harness?

[@Aestheticnerdlife]

@@BackpackingTV You wear it as a harness, but its really not noticeable with a pack over it. I use a Gregory Denali with a solid foam back as well as a Black diamond city creek day pack and I dont even feel it. I am curious to see how it feels fully loaded with my new Hyperlight but its been really good so far, it really manages the weight of full sized cameras well and it is really easy to pull your camera out quick. It also has a sleeve on the lid you can put your phone in while you hike for easy access.

[@GraeNormal]

Link to the dog’s KZbin channel please 😍

[@Colorado_Kkid]

It looks like you visited the area a the perfect time of year ... The flowers were beautiful ... Curious what your thoughts are of the Osprey pack you were carrying and the Merrell shoes you were wearing?

[@BackpackingTV]

We hit the timing just right! I had the Osprey Kestrel and it was fine. I didn't love it, but it's more of an entry level pack so it actually performed quite well for its price point. The Merrells were great! Lots of cushion on them and I really liked that. Only downside is they are Gore-tex and they got a little hot for the dry desert environment. I would have preferred a non-Goretex version for the desert.

[@Noob_bc]

Which trail is this? Thinking of coming in March 2024.

[@mikecnelson]

Where is this? We come visit my in laws in Phoenix every spring and always hike/camp while there

[@BackpackingTV]

Superstitions, out to Whiskey Spring. Lots of great hiking out there.

[@TheGreatLakesRealtor]

How did you like the setup? It seems like it took you a while to set this up?

[@derrickkelly4745]

Very cool. Relaxing to watch. But how on earth did you sleep with those frogs making such a racket?

[@BackpackingTV]

haha right?! It's crazy how loud they were. They actually settled down around 2 in the morning.

[@chovue2363]

7:16 for the saucy bits!

[@МихаилРусин-ы1о]

Great video! How do you like Zenbivy Light Mats comparing to other popular choices, such as Big Agnes Rapid SL or Nemo Tensor?

[@BackpackingTV]

For comfort, they're the best and warmest. But they are a little bulkier and heavier than the BA or Nemo. Depends on what you want!

[@МихаилРусин-ы1о]

@@BackpackingTV Thanks for replying! It's interesting that you say they are bulkier and heavier. I just compared stats on the official websites: Zenbivy Light 25x72: 1 lb 8 oz and packs to 9" x 4"; BA Rapid SL 25x72: 1 lb 8 oz and packs to 8.5" x 5". The claimed wait is equal and packing size is even more preferable on Zenbivy. Based on your real world knowledge, how would you rate this claimed data? Thank you again, you are really one of the best channels.

[@Zaragozanature]

Nice video! Amazing views from the desert in spring season! I like the colour provided by your camera! Which model is it?

[@BackpackingTV]

Thank you! It's the Canon R5. I love it.

[@DD_Davey]

How are those blue jeans? Too hot? Ok out there? Great video!

[@rws8163]

What were you wearing on your chest? Extra storage bag?

[@MoosebearAdventures]

Great vid. 👍🏕️

[@mveronie]

Only read the title so far, but congratulations on retiring your v-card.

[@DenRoedeMogM]

One blanket to share have never been a good idea.. So why would this be any better.. ?

[@dexterdeiparine5913]

Is that 48L backpack you wear?

[@tomnoyb8301]

Q-score doubles anytime a Border-Collie's featured.

[@BackpackingTV]

haha yes! He's got some Aussie and Blue Heeler in there too, hope that's alright.

[@nzarob8585]

Got the zenbivy double light bed as well and am blown away by how comfy it is. Any particular reason why you guys put the quilt on inside-out with the pongee facing out? Does it help not trap as much heat?

[@BackpackingTV]

I'd love to say we had some elaborate reason to maximize r-value or something, but no, I think we just used it inside out. woops.

[@sarahcrandall6290]

Y'all's dog drink water so weirdly. Hahaha. Scooping it up like that. Ive never seen that before! Gotta kick outta that for sure 😂

[@glaw5629]

What hat are you wearing in this video? It looks like it has a nice big brim.

[@olsonbryce777]

that's a crazy fucking thumbnail my man 😂. congrats? lol

[@eartz97]

does this work w 2 wide long pads? i want to get the tensor all season pad im sitting right at 6' my girlfriend is 5'2 and probably doesnt even need a wide long pad lol but i imagine it wouldnt work w a wide long and a normal one right?

[@DebbieWolfeMusic]

How did Kristi like the Osprey compared to the Bridger?

[@BackpackingTV]

Video coming soon with more details, but the short version is the Bridger kicked it's butt.

[@chrisnorvell1631]

What kind of outdoor pants are those sir?

[@BackpackingTV]

They are the Fjallraven Keb Agile trousers and they are so so good!

[@ethannarrow5209]

This looked so good… what did you film with?

[@BackpackingTV]

Thank you! I filmed with the Canon R5 and 15-35 2.8 RF lens and 70-200 4.0 EF.

[@ethannarrow5209]

@@BackpackingTV thanks!!

[@ittotaq]

how is this for night time activities though

[@BackpackingTV]

It's excellent! room to move around. You mean, for sleeping right? ;)

[@noodles.dumplings.kimchi2878]

When do super blooms happen in the desert? Is it a yearly thing?

[@BackpackingTV]

It can happen any spring, but they are generally potent after a wet winter, which we have definitely had! More rain in the desert than almost any other year.

[@Thee1Wolfpack]

What trail did you hike ?

[@BackpackingTV]

Started on Dutchman, out to Whiskey Spring and Red Tank.

[@bllarkin]

Was just out in the Superstitions myself this last weekend. What trail did you guys hike out?

[@WolfPackM98c]

That’s Dutchman to Whiskey Springs to Red Tanks

[@BackpackingTV]

what Kevin said!

[@FrontlineLLC]

What pack do you use for your dog? Take long for Kovu to adapt to it?

[@BackpackingTV]

It's the Mountainsmith K-9, link is in the description. It works for Kovu pretty well but it was definitely funny watching him learn to use it early on. The biggest thing for him though is how hot he gets. He struggles with overheating and sometimes we have to take the pack off so he can cool down. But this pack actually vents more than the Ruffwear version.

[@FrontlineLLC]

@@BackpackingTV Thanks. I have an Aussie and he hates harnesses. Will check it out…

[@j.mancilla8339]

Poor doggo 🐶..too hot for him 😢

[@JMD-er5jq]

that you have to filter water from what should be clear water shows just how much we are ruining our only planet

[@f8hiking104]

I'ma be honest this video content was a lil different than your norm. I found it kinda boring. Sorry

[@BackpackingTV]

meep moop. That's okay. Appreciate the feedback!