Backpacking Gear from Walmart: Full Gear for Under $200? What Works and What Nearly Killed Me

Gear in this video:
Ozark Trail 1P Tent: bit.ly/3MqFJz0
Ozark Trail 30 Degree Sleeping Bag: bit.ly/3NtVg2h
WearFirst River Shorts: bit.ly/3MsbNlO
Wrangler Western Shirt: bit.ly/3zjx7ao
Ozark Trail 300 Lumen Headlamp: bit.ly/3Nuouy0
Coleman Backpacking Stove: bit.ly/3Mq81JW (price different than in store)
Cookset: bit.ly/3xcwZqD (One I used in the video wasn't listed online, this is a better alternative)
Ozark Trail Sleeping Pad: bit.ly/3O2eFHx
Appalachian Gear Company Hoodie: bit.ly/3OgTr91
Big Agnes Zetto Jacket: bit.ly/3aza2pY
My favorite backpacking gear list:
Backpack: bit.ly/3mPhNdY
Sleeping Bag: bit.ly/3JTea1h
Satellite Communicator: bit.ly/3HqTIUi
Camp Stove: bit.ly/34mBc06
Cook pot: bit.ly/3tdCZ23
Freeze dried Food: pinnaclefoods.co/
Headlamp: bit.ly/3sYXKOS
Rain Jacket: bit.ly/3JGoOYU
Fleece Mid-layer | ALL-PACA Fleece Hoodie: bit.ly/3HCrpAN
Down Puffy Jacket (warm!): bit.ly/32Jn5Sb
Down Puffy Jacket (lightweight):
Hiking Boots: bit.ly/3eSMmvy
Hiking Socks: bit.ly/3qLVyaI
Gloves | Hestra Bike Ergo Grip Glove: amzn.to/3pCuGu2
Water Filter:
Water Bladder: bit.ly/3t2SrxF
Camp Pillow: bit.ly/34n4749
Folding Knife: bit.ly/3sXQNNH
Trekking Poles: bit.ly/3Hzq4LB
Sunglasses: bit.ly/3NtJQKR
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!
It's not easy to purchase backpacking gear when you're on a budget. I set out for my local Walmart to get as cheap of a set up as possible and then go on an actual backpacking trip with it. Here's what works and what totally sucks.
Sponsored by WearFirst: shopwearfirst.com/
Made with the support of Ontario Creates: ontariocreates.ca/
Special thanks to
WileyX: www.wileyx.com/
Follow me on social media:
Facebook: / epictrails365
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Blog: www.in4adventure.com/

[@phillipnunya6793]

The unfortunate thing about a lot of budget stuff is that the issues are usually related to issues with design rather than build quality. If they spent the money on R&D, their stuff would probably be considerably more popular. The tent, for example could have easily been made to have less condensation issues by changing the vent design and the vestibule height off the ground. They could have reduced the weight by shipping it with sturdy plastic stakes.

[@5857521ManitobaInc]

You'd be surprised at how much economy stuff these days is knock offs of better brands, which means the design is good, and the compromises usually boil down to material choices or quality construction But don't kids yourself, there are companies out there like nature hike, making high-quality knock offs for a fraction of the price.. you can get 90% of the quality and functionality of a $500 tent for $100 that's a good value.

[@lizzaangelis3308]

Well with the tent it isn’t about engineering. Or design. It’s about the quantity of mesh. Most good tents have a fair amount of mesh. But that is generally the more expensive fabric and so to keep the cost down they had to reduce that to a minimum

[@rebeccametcalf4448]

I have an old Ozark Trail tent I got as a graduation gift over 10 years ago. It's a 4 person tent I believe, absolutely massive, but it's still going strong. Still waterproof and comfy. Not for backpacking obviously but when I go car camping I absolutely love it.

[@BackpackingTV]

That’s great to hear it’s held up for so long! Pretty impressive actually.

[@joeljoel5061]

I own four Ozark tents... I use my backpacking two man steady for three years. It's still perfect and even late fall and early winter it's warmer than my van lol. I use my six man for festivals and camping with my girlfriend who requires a little bit of tush on her trips.... My three and four man tents get loaned out to my friends. One of them was slept in for a year by a homeless guy I befriended... An Ozark trail three man tent. He eventually returned it to me in still very good shape so I gave it to another homeless friend who needed it and replaced it. They aren't awsome tents, but if you take care of them they are maybe the best value no matter how you cut it. I have alot of name brand good gear from brands like klymit and alps etc. But I trust my Ozark gear most of the time.

[@kevinjnaquin11]

The bigger Walmart tents are fairly good quality. Not quite 10 years in mine but heavy use over the years and still a good one. Been to beaches and campgrounds small hikes are doable with a big tent if it’s shared appropriately haha

[@showtime1235]

i’ve had 2 ozark trail tents one of them being almost a decade old and still works the other i got about 5 years ago and use both at least twice a year and they still hold up

[@jarrettsherman6652]

I used an ozark trail single man hiking tent last year just to see how it would do…it was April 15th in Michigan, 4 days, 2 of those days it rained all day and temps where in the 30/low 40s, 4th day it snowed…it went through it all 😂 but it did the job…but by the end I was a little damp and definitely glad I wasn’t staying in it any longer 😂

[@erikjensen6503]

All that said a few trips with cheap gear you tend to really appreciate the nicer gear as you can afford to upgrade things! Thanks for testing it

[@ojibwayinca8487]

The audio quality is superb and the clarity of the video is excellent. Great job and great info. Much appreciated.

[@5857521ManitobaInc]

If you're gonna buy a Walmart tent here's a piece of advice. Make sure you also grab a tarp and a can of waterproof spray. Spray the rain fly the first day in your backyard before you take the tent anywhere. And learn how to run a Ridgeline and set up a tarp over your tent and you'll never get wet plus you can leave the door on the tent flap wide open for better ventilation. And having the vestibule space under the tarp is invaluable.

[@bretthines6893]

So a rain fly AND a tarp over the tent? That seems a bit extreme, right?

[@5857521ManitobaInc]

@@bretthines6893 no actually it's not. I would do the same for a $500 tent but you don't need to spend $500 if you do it that way. The biggest barrier to comfort is not having the right set up for your needs . A tarp over the tent. Your cooler in the heat during the day warmer at night dryer during the day gives you a spot to sit or cook without having to get wet place to store your stuff outside the tent. And when the rain and wind is being blown from different directions or backsplash, Ing off the ground, your tent will stay dry, and if you'd rather have more ventilation, you can open up the rain fly or even take it off, but you're still in the shade of the tarp Something else you can do with a tarp when you backwoods camping .. you can set your tarp up in such a way that you can collect water. Whether it be condensation dew or rain. a little extra water always comes in handy

[@5857521ManitobaInc]

Also, if it's pouring rain and you set your tarp up first, you have a place to keep yourself all your stuff and your tent dry while setting up. How many times do people get the inside of their tent soaked before they can get the rain fly on ? That's the other advantage to put the tarp up first.

[@spudhandle]

adds quite a bit to the weight for backpacking. For car camping or even bike camping, yea sure.

[@prisonerofthehighway1059]

That sleeping bag with a sea to summit liner and my old Army bivy have taken me to 0F. Also Ozark Trail makes a different one person tent that’s double wall and ventilates far better. It’s been my go to for a few years now.

[@PhilCherry3]

I've used Ozark Trail tents for 20 yrs and they have yet to fail me. Here's the catch though. I never used these tents without a overhead tarp and another tarp as a groundsheet. I once had my 15+ year old Ozark Trail 4 person tent out in 3 days of driving rain and heavy wind gusts. But it was protected by a good tarp. The combination worked like champs and there was not one drop of water inside that tent the whole time. In my opinion none of the off-the-shelf 1-10 person big box store tents can withstand inclement weather without additional tarp protection. But that doen't mean they are crap tents! Most people don't need and many cannot afford $300-$800 camping tents. For most people a $30-$100 tent and a good tarp will meet the majority of their camping shelter requirements.

[@ourcreativebeehive]

Lived in Flag for about 20 years. When my son went camping in high school, I bought his gear at Big 5. Not overly expensive and the tent survived 4 teen boys.

[@caniaccharlie]

I've used the hell out of that headlamp, numerous battery changes, etc. it's been rather great! Also I have used that cook set, but never the "cutlery" quite a bit car camping, it does the job and has held up.

[@Dismantled95]

The Camping section is my favorite place to go in Walmart.

[@nigelh3253]

Great ideas here for a starter. Then, after a first camp or two, the weight could be brought down, item by item - that's if it's a backpacking trip. But for car camping, the items may be suitable for some time. Good video here, Eric.

[@maggiemyrtlebeach2701]

Amazing video!!! Thank you I learned a lot. Please more videos like this. Thank you.

[@STho205]

Two person version, if you can find it, is only 0.5 lbs heavier and has two doors and vestibules to vent. It is also a foot longer and 2 feet wider. Still bet it is 3lbs if you ditch the metal stakes. Their BRS knockoff minimal butane stove is their best deal. No plastic junk, just the blowtorch burner head...but has a propane adapter and a can stand. Packs much smaller. Theif best backpack is in the Motorcycle section. A 40L drypack. Sometimes they have a hiking version of that not black (motorcycle gear uses too much black)

[@NPelham]

I actually picked up everything for my first backpacking trip from Walmart several years ago and several of the items I used are in this video (tent, bag, and stove). I used them for several years until just recently replacing a few of them so I wanted to share my thoughts after maybe a dozen times out with the gear. The Ozark Trail 1p Backpacking Tent does have serious ventilation problems. You can alleviate that by sleeping with the vestibule open, or by attaching guy lines to stake the vestibule out further and allow airflow underneath it when "closed." Mine also had waterproofing issue the first time I encountered rain. I coated it in Scotchgard and that seemed to do the trick as the only other time I dealt with rain wasn't nearly as big of an issue. The only other durability problem I've had is that the fiberglass poles started splintering this past year. I bought replacement aluminum poles and lighter stakes. It brought the weight down to a little less than 3 lbs IIRC. I haven't used the tent since then though, as I found the River Country Trekker 1P for a similar price (if you ignore the cost of trekking poles) and decided to use that when I went out last weekend. The Ozark Trail 30F Mummy is, as described here, pretty great actually. It comes with a compression bag that helps you compress it WAY down. So much that I had concerns about the compression bag failing, but I've used the bag for years and the straps haven't torn out yet. I store the bag compressed as much as possible inside of a backpack. I live in San Diego county, so 30F is a lower temp than I usually encounter and to be honest the bag is usually too warm for the area around Anza Borrego that I have spent most of the time with it. It has seen a few spring or early summer nights around Mammoth Lakes and it's held up well. It's also very tall so although I have recently replaced it I am keeping it as a loaner because it should fit some of my taller friends and relatives without issue. The stove is absolutely terrible. I suspect the issues weren't seen in this video because the pot he had was huge. But the heat from the stove is actually dispersed in a wide ring and takes FOREVER to heat the smaller kettles that I use while backpacking. (Mine is a stainless steel Stanley kettle that comes with two plastic cups). I've also had the metal pieces come loose after the plastic bits heat up which seems like a massive fire hazard. I replaced this immediately.

[@BackpackingTV]

This is perfect. Thank you for your report! I really appreciate it!

[@jon27d]

Where did you find aluminum poles? I already had an issue with one of the fiberglass poles and would love to not have that worry while on-trail

[@NPelham]

I just found cheap aluminum pole replacements on Amazon. They're nothing special. In hindsight I would recommend just upgrading to a better tent if you're at that point. Replacing the poles and stakes costs $30-$40. I think I'm better off having replaced the tent for under $100. The best part of the WalMart starter package is that it got me going. I never expected the items to last a long or work as well as they did. At this point I'm just trying to keep some of my starter gear for sentimental reasons.

[@waterbuck]

I've had one of those Coleman stoves for years. It's been just fine for me, hasn't fallen apart.

[@yogalandawellnessyolandati7654]

Online they have a fantastic double walled tent that’s under $30! I recommend it all the time. Under 4 lbs, less if you use lighter stakes 👍

[@ethmad9061]

Where?

[@yogalandawellnessyolandati7654]

Walmart. “1 person backpacking tent” It’s red. Been used several times now with zero complaints

[@spudhandle]

@@yogalandawellnessyolandati7654 The only very small complaint is the door, if you open it the wrong way (inward) water will come on you from the dew. But it breaths excellent and as with any tent, you need to seal the seams. An outstanding tent that is a 1.5 man tent in my opinion.

[@BPendleburyMagic]

This was my 1st tent when I was out on my own! It's not great but it's pretty good for the price I have a weird admiration for it. It's been with me through a lot!!

[@robbarnhart6670]

Love the shout out to the Museum Club, it was a crazy place to go when I went to NAU. I loved that country for single track and camping on the back side of the peaks. The out of the gear you used I like the headlamp as I have older pretzel gear that just doesn’t have the lighting capabilities that the new gear has, running down to Walmart to pick up something for this weekend’s camp out. Trying the hot tent out with my wooden stove and my new light weight cots and air pillows. Total weight will be 35 lbs of gear so it shouldn’t be too bad, stove is titanium.

[@relaxedamphibian2933]

I’ve been using that sleeping bag for literally years now. It’s an absolute beast.

[@bexpoking1]

Im so excited, thanks for a budget option!!!!

[@BackpackingTV]

You’re welcome! Hope it helps!

[@heyyall9378]

Walmart has tents that are not single wall tents. They don't have the ventilation problem that you experienced. This condensation issue is going to happen with any single wall tent. For $45-$75, you can get a pretty decent hiking tent at Walmart and save hundreds of dollars. Walmart sells smaller cooking pots. Idk why you bought that big one. Maybe they were out of stock at the time you went shopping. I agree with what you said about that foam pad. I've owned one of those. If you love pain, that's the perfect sleep pad. I bought a Klymit inflatable sleep pad and got rid of that foam thing. Thanks for the video. It is refreshing to see someone on KZbin that's not pushing a bunch of expensive gear. I think some people look at that expensive gear the way some people look at expensive purses and shoes- it's a status symbol. The great outdoors is no place for materialism and showing off. The fact is, I get my stuff from REI, Cabelas, Academy Sports, Walmart, and even thrift stores. And it will be a cold day in hell when I click on some 'influencers' link to buy something.

[@scottm6927]

Good, honest review, Eric. I think such gear are good for Boy Scout troops on a tight budget and beginners trying to determine if Backpacking is for them. Spot on advice about the sleeping pad being so critical to creating a good experience overall. A+ on sacrificing a night's rest for the KZbin community. Cheers.

[@BackpackingTV]

Thanks Scott! Much appreciated!

[@coltballistic1776]

​@@BackpackingTVlmao yeah good "honest" review smh... acting like you slept on that foam pad and telling us how uncomfortable it is when we can clearly see that you didn't sleep on it you slept on the big agnes Q-Core..... what a FAKE

[@Sloozer45]

Thank you for this topic/focus! New subscriber

[@tom6363]

I have that same WM tent and I sealed the seams and sprayed material with Scotchguard just to double assure waterproofing along with replacing the steel stakes with alum ones. The biggest downside is the lack of ventilation but for summer if you can leave the vestibule open and rolled up it helps. At $28.00 it can be a one-season throw-away for just getting started and still pretty good. BTW, WM has discontinued this single-walled tent and replaced it with a double wall one person tent at the same price (even a little lower) but weighs a pound more. UPDATE: per your link the tent is still being sold :-)

[@russellhowells6314]

Eric, nice review. Thanks for sacrificing your personal comfort to show us all how this more affordable gear performs. We know you are typically going out on the trail using top of the line gear. This was great to see from an experienced hiker what works and what doesn't. Also, where people could or should invest their money to make the most of their outdoor experience (sleeping pad/system, bad/poor sleep is just miserable in the woods or even at home). Nice job! For a future video, consider reviewing hiking chairs. That Helinox chair looks nice and having something to sit on after a long day of hiking is ideal compared to the ground, but $100+ for a chair? How does the cheaper competition that can be bought from Amazon compare? Thanks again. Enjoy the the outdoors. What a blessing to be able to do this.

[@RM-lk1so]

I hear ya. Seen a chair designed for hikers. 30-40$ breaks way down and appears to be sturdy. The Fineman Backpack chair.

[@rrumple39]

I've been using that same Coleman stove for probably 10 years. Never had any issues with it. Just upgraded to the Soto windmaster this year.

[@Daddio69er4p]

Best way to get into it great video man to show people you don't have to spend alot of money to enjoy it.

[@BackpackingTV]

thanks! more to come!

[@jamesbrooks3664]

Yo first like here! I use alot of "Walmart" stuff the name brand Outdoor Products are actually not to bad for the price and they sell there stuff at Big 5. Ozark Trail on the other hand depends on what the item is. I usually go to Ross to get my clothes. Go donate the stuff you won't use to a homeless person.

[@jeremyjames2643]

Had great luck with outdoor clothing at Ross, saved hundreds on great clothing from columbia. We all know how expensive those can get hell my rain jacket was 90 dollars but at Ross I got it for like 25ish as well as a few others mostly Columbia as they were the only outdoors clothing I could find that’s reputable. Probably saved 200 at least!

[@davidcarothers3311]

No!! I Won't!!

[@mrjeff2396]

One additional item to get from Home Depot is “24 in. x 10 ft. Double Reflective Insulation” @ $10.00 approx. Then cut to desired size.

[@heyyall9378]

That's an interesting idea. What to do with it? Do you put it between your sleep pad and sleeping bag for extra warmth?

[@mrjeff2396]

@@heyyall9378 I mostly truck camp. Me and the dog. Blankets are usually the HF moving blankets (cheap), and the Al sheeting comes in handy. For tent camping, yes! By placing the aluminum insulation under me does help to radiate the body heat. Blanket, aluminum sheet, blanket! For pickup camping, hang the insulation on the sides using Velcro strips for added warmth during colder weather. You can add strips along the top of the shell roof as well. (A Mr Buddy heater helps too!). (I use the painters drip pan to hold a thermo-electric fan to blow warm air!) I keep a CO2 monitor close by as well! Extra: stop by your local big name grocery store and ask for 1 or 2 food grade buckets w/ lids at the cake dept. Great for water storage! A little Clorox scrub and rinse, then fill with water and top with the lid! I also use (weather dependent) one or two of the 5gal shower bags that I keep on top of the shell between the shell and the truck back window for wash up.

[@dustyc324]

Heaviest rain in a tent I've ever encountered was an Ozarks Trail 1P about 10 years ago. I I'd much better than others in my group. 4 hours of heavy rain and I had an 8th inch on water in the corner by my feet. I was impressed. Never used that tent again, but I would in a pinch.

[@richarddemas5262]

I recommend that everyone check out the out of season stuff and discontinued gear. Good way to save money. I wouldn’t skimp on a pack or a sleeping pad, but clothing is a good place to save. But everyone has different priorities.

[@terrimactavish9547]

I have had that colman stove for 10+ years it will light and burn at any temp when others will not. I love that thing.

[@davidkay1386]

I’ve used a swimming pool body float thing as a mattress for car camping. It worked great. It’s heavy though too.

[@MoonbeameSmith]

When going walkabout at night I have a pair of bicycle lights I use, one I wear as a lamp and flasher the other is red and goes on the tent or car (depending) so I can find them again. In flashing mode a pair of AA bats can last for days at a time. I have in the past used reflective tape (thing the stickers on the back of trailers) cut into diamonds / squares stuck to my tent

[@a.ramosakadrumgrl6677]

Dixie from Homemade Wanderlust used the same tent and the poles broke with wind when she took it home to test for rain/storm resistance. She said the same for lack of ventilation. I don’t like those type of pads also, but I will use those, just so I won’t puncture my air pad. Dixie has been testing low price beginner gear. She has been testing the Lanshan 2 and 2P Pro. I have a Duracell headlamp for my first headlamp. You should have got the Ozark Trails 4PC All-in-1 Portable Camping Stove Stand & Adapter Set, Model 31408; this has been reviewed and is decent enough to get through a night.

[@scottmoore4039]

I saw that vid. From what I have read, if you apply a layer of duct tape to the fiberglass poles they hold up a little better.

[@clayp520]

I have used this tent for about 3 years. No issues. Spacious. I keep rain fly open for venting. Replaced the tent stakes to make much lighter. I'm a fan.

[@boredandagitated]

I’m a big baby and I like a foam pad under an inflatable pad. Slightly increases weight but idk I sleep better. I’m kinda heavy too. 5’7” 235lbs

[@briansmith3011]

This is pretty close to the motorcycle camping kit I’m looking at putting together. Thankfully I already have a Eureka solitaire, $25 clearance when the eureka outlet closed a few years ago. I do plan to go for a better pad as well. And the bright side to packing it on my bike is space is the issue, not weight.

[@anninwhack1998]

My fav Walmart buys are that same headlamp, UCO sporks, Stanley Adventure set,and the Ozark trail SS bottle cup w folding handles. Fyi the Stanley lid fits on the Ozark cup if you need a very small cook pot.

[@mrfluffy306]

I've had the Ozark Trail 2 person backpacking tent for over a year. Has over 30 nights in it easily. I've even camped in my yard and left it up for too long. Like over a week 🫣. Still waterproof and no holes. Amazing quality for $40. 7lbs a little heavy. Packs down quite small when you store the poles separately as well. 100% recommend to anyone starting out. Especially for 2 people. 1 person carry the stakes, poles, and ground cloth. Other person carry tent and fly. Fits full size air mattress so plenty of room for 2 sleep pads. My dog and I use it regularly. Looking to upgrade though as everyone does

[@TheAdventureArtists]

One of my favorite videos of yours

[@schlehrbear]

Our family does alot of car camping. Ozark trail has made things very affordable for us. Some of the stuff is just junk, but we have the knock off Columbia blue tent that ozark trail makes. It is pretty awesome. Has built in lights and Bluetooth speaker. Sleeps all 6 of us perfectly

[@dannygrissom754]

Amazon sells an inflatable sleeping pad for about $20 that works really well! It's a little thin in width but thickness and all it does really well.!

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

I used to have that stove and loved it. It always worked great for me. I had a cheap pizo lighter for it and never had any difficulties with using it. I have a Jetboil MightyMo now but the cheap one did it's job.

[@BackpackingTV]

It's good to hear of your success with it, thanks!

[@POVwithCOOK]

Aye snagged that Coleman for my first backpacking trip !

[@jb-ef1zu]

Thanks for providing a valuable Service. Something very important that I have not seen you or Dan B. mention (if I missed the video then please accept my apologies I've looked through many of them not all) while reviewing sleeping bags & pads is that the sleeping bag rating system is based on a mattress with an R rating of 5.8! ( Per REI info) so most people need to realize their bags won't go as low as they think comfortably. Very few pads have that rating and anything that warm is usually heavy or $$$ and very $$$ to get it in ultralight. The foam pads have a max R value of 2.0. so your 30 degree bag was probably only good for 45 degrees with your set up.

[@playgroundchooser]

R value of 5.8??!!!???!! Good lordy! That's insane. My Klymit Insulated Static V is only listed at like, 4ish.

[@fukenbroken1]

Those Coleman stoves actually hold up pretty good. I use one in my car camping gear for several years now. I don't particularly like the gas control knob. Its difficult to work when my hands are cold. :)

[@RM-lk1so]

I boon dock in a van The use of The green propane tanks are the bomb. And...i refill them from my 5 gallon tank. See yt for how to refill 16oz tanks. WM has the screw on burner. The real bomb. Especially for auto campers. Although i would try to pack it if with a group. The longevity is AWESOME.

[@emmab.1328]

Love this so much. Other people on KZbin can make it seem like you need the most expensive crap ever to be happy backpacking. Yes, more expensive will usually mean more comfort and convenience. But that stuff is luxury in my opinion, not essential. I’ve lived without many luxuries in my life so carrying a little more on my back and having some annoyances with gear is fine. It’s just part of life.

[@emmab.1328]

Also, I have an ozark trail tent that my friends dad gave to me. I’ve it for 2 years and apparently he had it for 3, so it’s going 5 years strong lol. The condensation is bad but idk I’m used to it, have mastered not touching the walls ever lol.

[@RM-lk1so]

No pain. No gain. The lil extra weight will be worth it at days end. A nice comfortable camp is so nice.

[@heyyall9378]

Sometimes expensive stuff is actually worse than cheap stuff. I bought an Osprey Ariel backpack that I thought would be the Cadillac of backpacks. I sent it back. It wasn't nearly as comfortable as my old Kelty backpack.

[@josephschalk4641]

When I first got into backpacking I got one of them cheap pool float Mats that you blow up it was light weight and kinda comfortable probably a lot better than the Walmart mats but also that was just me trying to do like a budget pack set. I’m more into hammock hiking now not all the times you have flat places to pitch a tent.

[@heidih2887]

safety and comfort wise, my biggest caution or concern is re: buying tents from big-box stores.. especially their store brands. I know of too many tent failures.. significant water leaking from mild to moderate rain soaking everything inside, poles snapping just putting the tent up or in light winds etc. Be SURE and TEST any tent.. especially "bargain tent" in your yard a number of times )including under a yard sprinkler or water sprayer or during extended rain events, before trusting your LIFE with it in the back country or even campground. FYI, some Wal Mart tents have been known to say (in fine print on the box) that they are NOT for actual camping in rain, even though the pictures and descriptions indicate they ARE. Having a tent collapse or leak and getting sleeping bag, clothing, and spare clothing WET is a great way to ruin the experience and could result in serious/severe hypothermia etc. As in a previous video where Eric addresses finding good used gear, renting, borrowing etc., there are ways to camp and backpack on a budget without being miserable or risking one's health and life! :D (my viewpoints are influenced by my "past" as a former firefighter/EMT and former Search and Rescue member)

[@BackpackingTV]

This is excellent advice! Yeah I don’t think I would actually trust that tent if the weather really got nasty. It’s good to know your background and what you’ve seen out there in rescue situations!

[@davidcarothers3311]

SMH: C'mon, Heidi!! You were Never a search and rescue operative!! Geez, Honey!!

[@jacobrodesh9019]

This is important people^ I’ve been in bad situations in the (35°F range) cold because of leaky tents and getting wet

[@carmenmartinez2882]

I couldn’t agree more. Been camping for 40+ years and yes, tent, bag and pad extremely important items.

[@MikeMatt-zb3hp]

Great video. I have the 30$ one person you got 🤣 we got it to store gear on hikes so we could sleep in our nicer 2p. I slept in it once on a short warm weekend trip… it wasn’t horrible other than crappy ventilation so it got sooooo much condensation inside. Change the stakes will cut the weight. It was roomy for a 1p. And other than the ventilation I will use it if camping/hiking alone in warmer clear weather.

[@Nono-rh4lr]

Thanks. I wish you had a link to what you consider a good sleeping mat. Thats what I was most interested in.

[@ibrahimaldossri2646]

Hi…… I know it’s 6 months ago the flog just now I watch it.I love hiking and I crossed many countries in Africa Asia some of Europe I heat the cheap tent because the moisture and the weight, the tent it my home most be comfortable after long day hiking. Thanks 🙏 keep up 👍

[@BackpackingTV]

Glad to hear it! ✌🏼

[@mooseman09]

I have that foam pad and its rough but gets the job done lol.

[@AlfieLW]

TONS of rental companies including REI who rent HIGH QUALITY gear. For a 4 night trip to Sierra Nevada, I rented a BearVault450, MSR Windburner Stove with Cup, Trekkking Poles, REI - 60 Backpack and 2 person REI Half Dome tent for $100. Savings of about $500, especially if you dont do it often! High quality mattress and sleeping bag can be rented too but, thats up to you!

[@SkitterComic]

I bought a few of the $10 (in 2021) ozark Trail sleeping bags. They’re actually really nice! And warmer than you’d think. My daughter got soda all over hers during a Girl Scout outing and it washed well in the washing machine.

[@BackpackingTV]

That’s pretty impressive!

[@HochstartHarry]

I just built an alpine bivy / climbing pack for under 200€.. i dont have a tent, but a really nice backpack (30l), a crappy but light sleeping bag, an amazon special sleeping mat (inflatable 550g) an emergency bivac sack, a solid fuel stove with a crap ton of fuel and cooking wear and cuttlery. The pack weighs in at 9.5kg or like 20lbs with water and food. Im hyped.. and all that for under 200€.

[@JarradShaw]

Oh man, Erik!!! Using Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight pack. I am REALLY curious what you thought of that light weight pack compared to Mystery’s smaller Bridger pack.

[@chillindave1357]

I love my Shadowlight

[@JarradShaw]

@@chillindave1357, I saw a guy walking through the Smoky’s last weekend. He had the bigger size and had it pretty full. I think he was doing off and on about 20-ish miles. He said the same thing. Erik really sold me on the smaller Bridger pack, but I just love everything Outdoor Vitals is doing right now. Really great thought and approach to a lot of their stuff.

[@jon27d]

I actually bought A different 1 person backpacking tent from Walmart yesterday. It's a 2 layer tent. Published weight is 4.4 lbs but it has the same behemoth steel stakes that yours had. I'm pretty sure I cut a half-pound just by swapping out for aluminum stakes. The fiberglass poles feel a bit flimsy and I actually had to return the 1st tent right away for a broken pole. We will see it how it goes but the ventilation is definitely better The one that you showed here

[@yogalandawellnessyolandati7654]

I have the orange one I love it. The stakes are soooo heavy and you really only need 2 if it’s not too windy!

[@KingSlimjeezy]

I honestly love Ozark Trail products.

[@robinthurston3382]

Wally world sells the gsi mess kit (Ozark trail) I use the fry pan all the time because it's small and lightweight.

[@abelnunez-guerrero3832]

Thank you so much for your review @BackpackingTV!!! ⛰🏕

[@daveb5991]

Walmart sells a 55 liter backpack for 60ish, but I would rate it as ok. I think most people would be better set (as a cheap beginner option) buying a used backpack (thrift stores have such good deals on backpacks), or even better an external frame pack. External frame packs are easy to strap those big items (like a synthetic sleeping bag or foam pad) to the outside of, and they are super cheap, even new. Also, I am surprised to see that you didn't go with the Stanley pot with cups and uco flatware (I think it is about the same price)

[@fire7side]

I sleep on that type of mat when I backpack. It's a roll up but same deal. I don't get cold from the ground and my dog can't puncture it. I may get a light air mattress to go on top but because of my dog, I'll probably always use it. He just ripped my sheet again on my bed so I have to get another.

[@Splif128]

please review the walmart jetboil and Lixada Titanium Pot also, other walkmart finds include knock of ground hogs, stanley two cup cook pot, $10 compression sack

[@davidshirley6850]

Are you wearing an appalachian gear hoodie? If so how do you like it, I have one on order after hearing how great they are

[@ifilmalways7122]

I believe anyone starting out in hiking or backpacking "should" go with these small budget items and then over the next 20 years upgrade one piece at a time. I do agree with the sleeping pad.. Money should always go towards your sleep system...

[@rungavagairun]

You can get a BRS stove on Amazon for probably as cheap as that Peak stove, but lighter weight, more compact, and probably better performing. When I was in my 20s, newly married with no money, I watched ebay for items that I could pick up used, but still decent quality.

[@keeperofthegood]

Your walmart has SO much more inventory than ours. Our's you could buy one of every single outdoors item and pack it all in your back seat and still have room to spare. As to tents, I always pack a tarp because trust issues.

[@heyyall9378]

The Walmart near my home has an average camping section. The one about 7 miles away is nearest to a state park and also has a Cabelas in the same shopping center. The camping section at that Walmart is exceptional.

[@carmenmartinez2882]

I don’t know man, I do have some outstanding Ozark Trail things but personally I’m never going to take a chance with a tent nor a sleeping bag and I don’t backpack but car tent camp. Doesn’t have to be super expensive but nothing worse than a cold wet night. Live and learn, been camping a lot for 40+ years and I camp mostly in the Sierras, I’ve had my share in the past of trying to save and paying the price later on.

[@roxannebond662]

hi n I like what u did at Walmart. When will u take a trip n show meals u learned from chef corso or something close with ir spin? thks rox

[@testlan7765]

the tent actually is fare. Even for the expensive ones, it'll still get some small water bubbles in the morning. it's normal I think. Will try the sleeping bag. it's so smaller compared to my TNF

[@michaelhernandez410]

I would avoid Ozark Trail tents with fiberglass poles. All the tents I've purchased have had poles that broke after a few setups. All their other gear has held up well, and I'd recommend it.

[@amywert8088]

So, my tent and pad are the same-ish size as what you have but your 'how to pack a backpack' video is for the much more compact stuff. I see you have the foam pad on the outside. I have my tent poles on the outside and then the tent is easily packed. But the long inflatable mattress I don't really want on the outside? I may run with that though.

[@CMG78]

as far as that Coleman stove i took it backpacking coast to cost it survived the trip but barely

[@LinusWilson]

That is a nice tent. Correction too wet😂

[@voraciousblackstn]

On foam pads. If you are determined to use one because they are cheap, go for at LEAST a 3/4 inch thickness. Preferably an inch. 1/2 inch pads are horrible. On the Coleman stove. I have used mine for about 5 years now. It has kept truckin on, and shows little sign of slowing down. It breaks down fairly easy for cleaning, and yoy can take the burner off easily to store it flat(ish). If you take the red plastic off (easy to do) it resembles the Decathlon brand stove. It ain't no slouch is all I'm saying.

[@johnroark9568]

I have that foam pad literally to only add value to my 30 dollar Amazon sleeping pad. I slept better in 6 degree F weather than my friend on his $170 Big Agnes 4+ R value pad.

[@s.jamessavell6995]

On that air mattress, what do you do to keep it from being a balloon and popping or developing holes?

[@Gneiss365]

I've never actually used one of those foam pads with the silver, but always assumed that the silver side faces down to give better insulation. Was it a mistake that it was facing up (and therefore adding to the miserable experience), or is that how they're supposed to be used?

[@billthehandymanriley7213]

what if you got a blow up pool pad to sleep on? it might work i know its cheap but might work

[@cimarronMC]

I know backpacking isn't a budget friendly thing, but considering how much other hobbies cost, you can buy quality equipment for backpacking, and it will last a long time, take care of your stuff and the experience you will have backpacking is fully worth it

[@jeffdur1330]

Lol that sleeping pad

[@freethinker5225]

Could've left the door open a lil bit and kept the screen up...I had a tent like that and although it was a little colder when waking up it stayed dry

[@scottmoore4039]

Yeah, for $15 more I'd go for the klymit static v over the foam pad. They also offer a limited lifetime warranty.

[@BackpackingTV]

To me it's always worth a little extra money if it means I'll sleep great.

[@olegoathiking1962]

Great info for people to know. Don't buy the Coleman peak 1. Mine quit working when I finished the first canister and switched to the second canister. As far as a persons sleep systems go, I am still sleeping on my original Therm-a-Rest self inflating sleeping pad of 40+ years. Somethings are worth their original investment. Get outside and breath some fresh air. Enjoy nature.

[@stefslyfe]

For $30 you could cut windows and glue mesh fabric to the holes for ventilation

[@tiffanym4202]

Side-sleeping ladies with big hips, get the Klymit Static V inflatable pad at Walmart for $50. Yes, you'll go over budget. Weighs in at 18.7 oz. Worth it!

[@mikitta47]

Luke from Outdoor Gear Review does NOT have a good report on any of the ValFart tents. For cheap, you would be better served to get a larger blue tarp and string up your own shelter. You will have more protection from the elements and get better ventilation. The BBS with the yellow asterisc also now has a BRS look-alike stove with a stand. I like to put that foam pad under my Klymit air mattress. The two together make a pretty good Shoulder Season set up for ground-dwelling.

[@joshdigrugilliers7874]

Hey consider renting your gear! There's a place by the airport in Las Vegas called Basecamp if you're going to be in the southwest US.

[@BackpackingTV]

I remember I could rent gear from my university, a great option when I was a broke college student.

[@ethanalbany]

Im in the midwest. I love hammocks. Cheaper and lighter than tents.

[@kaceesavage]

Our Walmart sells Klymit static V pads.

[@BackpackingTV]

That’s pretty sweet. I looked for em but couldn’t find them although I saw them available online.

[@giftedfox4748]

If I am to be fair, I am surprised that the tent didn't experience weather to show its flaws. From my understanding and some other peoples reviews on the Ozark Trail tents have showed it to be near garbage. In fact, the one you got is a 2 season tent so not shocked of the poor vent results.

[@NZComfort]

If you get creative, you can find some decent stuff. Hammock (remove carabiner), use some strong webbing for straps, use a foam pad (insulation), light quilt/blanket (sleeping bag doesn’t work great in a hammock), tarp, bag, etc… you can make an alcohol stove, use yellow Heet, so on and so on…

[@BackpackingTV]

It’s true there are so many ways to Macgyver solutions!

[@nicolereadstarot]

Can you recommend a tent for a single adult and 2 toddlers?

[@georgeromero8833]

This video is informative for that don't have the means of large money to but with a cheap tent I think you should teach a more inexpensive way to water proof it even it cheap a Walmart

[@Starry_Night_Sky7455]

11:12 Not Spartan enough, pansy! I'm joking 🤪 Anyway I walked into WM wearing shoes I got at REI that are not waterproof. Second pair from REI, same issue. By chance I picked up some Ozark Trail waterproof hiking shoes. So far they have handled rainy muddy conditions for a few weeks. Feet still dry. I was very surprised!

[@jeremyjames2643]

Started off with some Walmart gear, I was surprised of the quality of a lot of their gear. Won’t hold up like something from rei but it gets people out there, doesn’t take thousands to start hiking and camping.

[@RM-lk1so]

To Catch the Vibe. Getting started is the key. Mox it up with others. Learning and figuring out what works by going in groups. Then up grade from there.

[@jeremyjames2643]

@@RM-lk1so I’ve always advice to join a Facebook group or any group of hikers especially because they often sell pretty decent used gear for a good price not only that you’ll know what’s good at the moment and what isn’t

[@LinkRocks]

That's what's kept me from camping, seeing all these videos of people claiming you must spend big bucks to do it. It's nice to see videos like these that are honest about budget gear that you can use as a beginner as you figure out what you need to upgrade/replace down the road. Heck some of the budget items are good for the long haul which is nice.

[@jeremyjames2643]

@@LinkRocks while I used mainly expensive gear I grew up in Arkansas so we were bare bones with it back in the day I’d rather folks get out there first besides it’s like riding a 1000cc bike instead of a 250 or a 600 for a starter your just not using those items to the best effect. Better to learn first then adapt and see what you want, there are plenty of brands that are almost as good as the name brands. Ultralite is expensive but most hikers arnt traveling 6 months on trail most are just getting into it. The only things I wouldn’t cheap out on is a communication and gps, safety isn’t cheap but a funeral is much more expensive.

[@jeremyjames2643]

@@LinkRocks if you need any advice on gear I’d be happy to share my current set up and lower budget options

[@TimKaseyMythHealer]

considering its only $30, I wonder if it would be possible to cut an L section out of one side and add mesh attached with velcro, or if you can sew?

[@jimmyhendrix4495]

Wait, so "non synthetic" bags are better? Ty! Side note, I'm a train rider and I abuse tf outta gear, and although those stoves are heavy, they do hold up for long time...although def not preferred..

[@stacksmasher]

Take it from someone who camps outside a bunch, skimp on everything but the sleeping bag. A cheap sleeping bag can kill you. Spend the extra $100 on a quality item that is actually rated correctly.