BEST BUDGET ULTRALIGHT BACKPACK FOR HIKING - Gear Review

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Hello everyone... What's your backpack of choice? I'd love to hear your thoughts. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE for more gear reviews, tips, and hiking adventures. Hope you're all doing well and getting in some time outdoors!!!

[@carmelobruce4821]

i know Im asking randomly but does any of you know a way to log back into an Instagram account? I was dumb forgot my account password. I would love any tips you can offer me!

[@ishaanelliot5109]

@Carmelo Bruce instablaster :)

[@carmelobruce4821]

@Ishaan Elliot I really appreciate your reply. I found the site on google and I'm in the hacking process atm. Takes a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@carmelobruce4821]

@Ishaan Elliot it worked and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy! Thank you so much you saved my ass :D

[@ishaanelliot5109]

@Carmelo Bruce happy to help :D

[@Ruckanonymous]

$200 after taxes doesn't seem like a budget ultralight backpack. I can list quite a few that are better priced at nearly the same weight: SWD Superior 35 frameless ($175), YAR.gear Mountain Drifter 38 ($170), Granite Gear Virga 26 ($119), MLD Hell 27L ($160). With that said, this seems like a solid pack with some very nice features. I think it is priced well for what it is. Personally, it just doesn't fall into the "budget" category.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

I hear ya. Obviously "budget" can mean a lot of things. I consider any well built ultralight backpack under $200 to be in the budget category. That's a great list of packs you pointed out. All reasonably priced, but you would have to purchase additional add - ons to be comparing apples to apples. Shoulder pockets are just one example. I feel that the multi 35 is an all-around Top Choice not only because of the price but because of its comfort, durability, and efficiency with in its features.

[@Ruckanonymous]

@@TheUltralightMindset Yup, I guess it is all perspective and relative to each person. To me, budget is much closer to that $100 range rather than $200. And I also agree you get more with the LiteAF pack which is why its priced a bit higher. Just trying to point out that I wouldn't consider it a budget pack if it is priced right alongside its peers/competition.

[@EricK-Outdoorz]

Yeah, I agree. I would consider a budget ultralight pack to be something along the lines of the 3F UL Tutor 38 (38L / $93), which is a lot of bang for the buck. Obviously that's going to be heavier, lower quality, and have less features than these higher end packs, though.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

@@EricK-Outdoorz Yep. The Multi is what I personally consider the "best" budget ultralight pack. Obviously there are many other budget packs out there. 3F UL does make some great gear, BUT.....their packs are no comparison to the Multi.

[@rodrev_hiking6757]

I have the 20L multi day pack and right now am saving up for a custom made 40L full suspension . I think the 35L is enough but just in case I might need a Bear Canister some day I have the space and the 40L can roll close down to smaller size when not fully loaded . Can’t wait to get it . The Multi Day 20L is enough for all my Summer Gear plus 3-4 days of food . Only drawback with these Nylon Packs is u definitely need a Pack Liner . They are not Waterproof so make sure u use a Liner with these

[@TheUltralightMindset]

I use a liner (trash compactor bag) with all my packs. Even DCF is not completely "water proof" although it is highly water resistant....👍🏻

[@rodrev_hiking6757]

@@TheUltralightMindset can only say waterproof about the HMG southwest . 8 days Iceland with heavy rain for Hours without any Liner and everything kept dryAF. I hope my upcomming 40L Suspension LITEAF can compete with that . But u are right i probably should always use a Liner 🙈😏

[@mattheishman170]

Wow so many other packs that more durable and less expensive with a better warranty..these are facts. Good way to make your opinion known.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Interesting....

[@turtlecrawford6468]

If I wouldn't have just picked up a granite gear virga 26 earlier in the year I would have gave this strong consideration. Good review

[@TheUltralightMindset]

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@Wondering_Fireball]

I have the multi 20 and the 46 framed LiteAF packs. Thanks for the update, might look at that as I dial my load down.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Thanks for checking in Perry. How are you liking the 20?

[@danielgolite]

Looks like a good design. I like the material it is made of. I am still using my 2001 Go Lite Breeze pack. Looks similar at first glance but not as advanced as the pack you showed. It is amazing how many companies are now making lightweight packs.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Awesome....👍🏻

[@bretthikez6567]

Those water bottle holders are awesome..looks like a great pack ...im sure some folks could use it for 4 season if there gear is super dialed in...GREAT video dude

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Yea man. I can get a 3 season kit, for temps down to the low twenties, with 4 days food easily. Thats with the collar rolled down all the way tight. The water bottle pockets are awesome!!!

[@jimmac1953]

I recently bought the ZPACKS Nero. This is basically a Nero with strap pockets and a bit more cordage standard so it is cheaper.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Not exactly.... Besides all the additional features of the Multi and the differences you pointed out, it's 45 liters total vs the 35 liter Nero. The Multi has two seperate sets of webbing loops at different heights so you can accommodate varying torso lengths by moving the detachable belt up or down.

[@trailgoodsco]

Dude! Your videos are getting better and better! Keep them coming! Can't wait to try that pack!

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Thanks man...I try. Now I need to figure out how to shoot one with this camera...😆😆😆😆

[@TyBraek]

I would think they would make the y strap non removable. It seems like there’s a lot of hardware and it would reduce weight if it was just sewn in. If someone really didn’t want it they could cut it off.

[@jasonmears4393]

Looks like you were up in Grayson Highlands. Just got back from there a few weeks ago. Thanks for sharing this video. Very informative about your new backpack 🎒 My next pack looks like will be a liteaf.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Yep. I hike through there at least once a year. Beautiful area.....👍🏻

[@jasonmears4393]

@@TheUltralightMindset would love to catch up sometime to go on a hike together. I know that may seem weird since we don't know one another. You hike alot of the same areas i hike. Linville gorge, grayson highlands, roan highlands etc. I live within 2 hours of all these great spots.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

@@jasonmears4393 😆😆😆....Your a lucky man. I live over 6 hours from all of those areas. Keep me in the loop. I'm always up for a hike...👍🏻

[@clara-felia1748]

I'm wondering how this is a budget package? Feels like clickbate to me, although the video is great and the backpack looks fantastic, under 100$ would be budget.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

"Quality ultralight" backpacks typically range from $160 all the way upwards of $300 for a fully framed custom pack. This puts the Multi 35 on the lower end of that price range. I consider this backpack to be the best budget option because it is extremely comfortable, it is extremely well made, and it has a lot of great features that you won't find on any other pack for $189. Yes, you can find a backpack for hiking for $100 or even $50, but it won't be what I consider high quality or a high level of comfort. That's why I chose this pack as the "Best Budget" option. I try to help folks avoid buying gear purely because it's cheap, only to find out that its not built well, painful to hike with, and worst case, scares them away from hiking all together. That being said, this pack may not be for everyone. Some people prefer to use a $40 backpack from Walmart, and if that gets you out on trail and puts a smile on your face. I'm totally cool with that. It's all about a safe, fun, hike. Just my humble opinion. MBM

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Update....I just received a pack that may be more of what your looking for. I havent had a chance to hike with it yet, BUT it looks very promising for a low cost alternative at only $85. Keep in mind that this pack will not be comparable to the liteAF pack, but if your on a tight budget or your just getting into backpacking, I think you may want to check it out. There's also a 45 liter version, shorter torso, that should restock soon. www.amazon.com/dp/B0865KSS6X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_imm_K119SR4J443VTGE3ZTXC?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

[@paxtianodirtfrog8947]

Like the looks of it. I have the LiteAF 40L and love it. I like the fact that one has a removable hip belt. I also wish my 40L had the strap at the top to pull down the roll top(so I could be lazy and not roll it every time. If there was one thing that I could add to either it would be a stretch pocket at the very bottom of the pack but I can't remember if LiteAF offers that on theirs(maybe?) . I would put my rain jacket in there. The price on yours is crazy low for what it is.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Yep. They do offer a mesh bottom pocket on their custom packs. I have one on my Curve 35.

[@ardoinsoutdoors1509]

You might have sold me on this pack with this video - I've been looking at UL packs for months now. I bought a G4Free $20 pack just to see how a frameless one would feel, and to see how small I could pack my gear. I was looking at the Gossamer Gear packs too, but I think the large side pockets and the shoulder strap pockets on this LiteAF pack are tipping the scales. Went ahead and subscribed, looking forward to your future videos!

[@TheUltralightMindset]

I hiked with a Gossamer Gear Kumo for a couple years. Also made of Robic Nylon, similar setup with pockets. BUT....there are several reasons why I think LiteAF has GG beat. 1. Comfort. The most comfortable shoulder straps I have ever used, with or without a hipbelt. 2. Function. Trying to get to your water bottles while hiking with the Kumo nearly broke my shoulder. LiteAF...super easy. 3. "S" shaped shoulder straps. Hard to explain just how well they fit and hold the pack in place. 4. Company. Chris and Lori are great people and they run a business that is very involved in supporting the hiker community and protecting public lands. Check out there website to see what they're doing. Happy Hiking!

[@ardoinsoutdoors1509]

@@TheUltralightMindset I see that they've made the #giveashit pledge, lol, that's awesome! Definitely makes sense to support American companies that are funneling money back into protecting American public lands. And especially if they're able to keep their prices reasonable like this.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

@@ardoinsoutdoors1509 Yea man. Great gear. Great Company.

[@rmj2n]

Thanks alot. I was forced to buy this pack after watching this video. I was helpess.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

My job here is done. LOL LOL

[@JohnMFlores]

Good detail shots. Thanks.

[@MichaelJones1130]

Thank you! I have been looking forward to this video ever since you shared a picture of it in your possession. Cannot wait for mine to arrive! I am also curious as to why the polyester mesh pocket was chosen over the spandex of all his other packs and which tends to be preferable by many. Was it cost savings? Was it durability? If durability, then is he going down the path to change the other packs too? ⏰

[@TheUltralightMindset]

The Lycra used on all previous packs is great but its not as durable as the new Polyester mesh. Its also easier to see the items in the pocket. I'll admit it took me a little bit to get used to it, but now I'm really liking it. I would say there's a very good chance that's all of the large front pockets will be polyester mesh going forward.

[@matthewritter8155]

When will you have Stock?

[@brittanycollins802]

Thats a great looking pack! I have a Curve 40 on order and I can't wait to get it in 😊 LiteAF is leading the game when it comes to packs IMO

[@TheUltralightMindset]

You're gonna love it...👌

[@j3hikes444]

i would have purchased if it was the same color and mesh material as the 20L. with that being said, i love my multi 20L pack.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Yes. I love, love, love the 20....👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@alexpower9389]

How's it differ from the Curve 35?

[@TheUltralightMindset]

210 D Robic Nylon intead of Dyneema. Poly mesh front pocket.

[@alexpower9389]

@@TheUltralightMindset thanks! How do you like the mesh vs spandex? I would have picked the spandex nylon from the curve given the choice.

[@alexpower9389]

Nvm saw you reply on this in another comment. Thanks

[@TheUltralightMindset]

@@alexpower9389 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@joelnelson2434]

Being a size medium would it fit someone that’s 6 feet tall?

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Your height doesn't necessarily determine your torso size, but unless your torso is unusually long for 6' Id say....most definately. And the four loops (two on each side) allow you to move the belt up or down. For reference, I'm 6'1 with a 20" torso and it fits me perfectly. My wife is 5' 7 and she can also use the pack with no issues....👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@johnmccarron]

Prefer hip belt and support, is there any ??

[@TheUltralightMindset]

You can attach a hipbelt.

[@danimal_1980]

Really looking hard at lite af packs but a 20 week wait time is a hard pill to swallow.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Yea....but good things come to those who wait...😁

[@tomnoyb8301]

It's winter; we need 4400 (70L) or 5400 (90L) Dyneema packs, not Robic packs? Gonna compete with ULA and Osprey? Maybe? But it's a crowded field, whereas Dyneema's 1) the future, 2) wide-open. Margins are better too. Cost of Dyneema's dropping. Every market indicator says play to LiteAF's strength and expand to bigger volume "Curve" backpacks.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Interesting points Tom. Not sure theres a huge demand for an ultralight 90 liter Dyneema pack, but who knows right.? The Multi 35 has the same great features as the Dyneema Curve, but built out of Robic Nylon. Clearly, both Dyneema and Robic Nylon have their strengths and weaknesses. I think the point here is to provide options. Thanks for the input....👍🏻

[@tomnoyb8301]

​@@TheUltralightMindset - LiteAF already has 20L, 35L, 40L and 46L packs. Top-quality packs. Best packs on the market. None compare. HMG is a distant second due to LiteAF's superior straps, stretch under-pocket and mostly those curved side-panels. However, LiteAF doesn't have a strap advantage over the big pack-makers. And others make under pockets on small packs. The natural market-space is 70L-Dyneema, because there's not much competition. Not suggesting they start with a 90L pack, but if they did, I'd go for it over HMG's 70L. These LiteAF packs cinch-down comfortably almost regardless how big, but they don't grow. A 6'5" hiker with two quilts and winter gear needs a lot more than 46L. I've been holding off buying HMG's 70L in hopes LiteAF would add a 70L-Dyneema-Curve? ps. Competing with bigger companies on price is never a good idea. Find your niche and capture the space.

[@dougspizman6751]

@@tomnoyb8301 top or bottom straps to mount ur sleep system or tent would add liters without the extra weight.

[@tomnoyb8301]

​@@dougspizman6751 - Already added a 11" collar to the top of my 40L Curve (with Y-strap) for summer. Have bottom stretch-pocket too. It's nowhere near enough for winter. Am on the taller side, but am not alone. Am 6'5" with every piece of gear much larger. Quilts are larger, Clothes are larger, Shelter's larger. Now add a second quilt, second and third pads and winter clothes? 40L just ain't gonna cut it. Guess I'll be stuck with HMG's straight back, thin straps and stiff no-stretch-pocket?

[@garrycollins3415]

Been thinking about that pack.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Thinking or dreaming...😆😆😆

[@garrycollins3415]

@@TheUltralightMindset well I just bought an REI Flash to replace my Osprey so another pack so quick might be more than I can justify. But, come spring...

[@TheUltralightMindset]

@@garrycollins3415 Haha....I just picked up a Flash 55 last Spring. I get a lot of people asking for recommendations for packs with a frame that they can try on in a store. Been testing it out on some hikes myself and also with friends. I like it. Great pack for the price. Comfortable. You can strip it down. Yea man...👍🏻

[@WhoobieD]

It's unavailable AF 🤣 Great video

[@Truth-Seeker75]

Strange. You’d think the cow would have boarded the chopper. I mean honestly, how often do cows get offered such a great opportunity?

[@TheUltralightMindset]

That's exactly what I thought. Crazy cows....😆😆😆😆😆

[@texmexia49]

Great looking pack, but at $250 for basic pack I would by no means call this a budget option.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

This pack retails for $189...

[@texmexia49]

Motivated By Mountains my bad, I was looking at the curve 35. $189 is much more reasonable.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

@@texmexia49 No worries....👍🏻

[@lindamalcovsky]

Whats the reccomended carry weight on it?

[@TheUltralightMindset]

20 pounds max....👍🏻

[@alexwbanks70]

I ordered one!

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Hell ya. You're gonna love it!!!!

[@horsedog713]

Would you recommend this or the 40 curve suspension for a AT thru hike?

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Thats hard for me to answer without more information regarding your gear, weight, start date (colder weather gear), anticipated average miles per day (which plays into days of food carried), etc, etc

[@BackcountryPilgrim]

Looks like a great pack!

[@shuangliu1897]

Anyone who own a Liteaf pack can tell me what difference is between multi-day 35 and curve 35 packs? I know materials r different and Curve can be customized, any other difference?

[@TheUltralightMindset]

The Multi 35 is made of Robic Nylon and comes with the standard fast track options.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

There's really no other difference.

[@shuangliu1897]

@@TheUltralightMindset thx for response, do multi day 20 and 35 both have bottom packet? Just like Curve does

[@TheUltralightMindset]

@@shuangliu1897 No bottom pocket

[@shuangliu1897]

@@TheUltralightMindset thx

[@jaywalker5561]

So what's the price?

[@vy4648]

what about cell phone pocket?

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Not sure what your asking, but there are mesh pockets on both shoulder straps will hold a cell phone.

[@originaldevelopment]

Is it waterproof?

[@TheUltralightMindset]

No

[@marie-evecantin1489]

I enjoy all your videos but I have to say I would have preferred to hear you explain all the features rather than just show them while playing that annoying music.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Ouch...

[@gfree8037]

So they have had a rather significant price increase in 4 months? Maybe you want to update that so as not to seem so misleading and turn people off so quickly as a result.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Nope. Still $189.

[@FranklinHicks-qs4gs]

189 is "budget"?? You cray

[@emanuelmarmet]

You should change the title. Not a best budget backpack.

[@Susancareycoaching]

In y world,$300 is not a budget backpack

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Mine either. This pack sells for $189.

[@Justifiedforce]

Out of stock

[@trulsdirio]

Man, what is it with youtubers loosing all sense for money? Almost 200$ is budget?

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Yep. For a well made, ultralight pack with just the right amount of features $189 is pretty damn cheap...👍🏻

[@joshwood3]

@@TheUltralightMindset sorry, but I don't really think it's budget either. I own a Curve 40L and this seems like a really great pack, however there are a lot of other quality frameless packs at around this price or cheaper. The GG Kumo, ZPacks Nero, MLD Burn, My Trail Co UL 35 are all similarly priced frameless packs that arguably have similar quality. I think something like the virga 2 or a 3F UL pack would be a better budget oriented option. They both will of decent quality and can be found around $100.

[@nedsled2994]

Budget, I guess you got a free pack from liteAF and are doing a video. For $11 more you can get a 10oz pack from Zpacks in Dyneema. Not sure where this is a budget.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

Ned, thanks for the input. Im assumjng your referring to the Nero. Your correct that pack is just a few dollars more in Dyneema. The biggest difference is the lack of shoulder pockets, v loop, shoulder strap design (ridiculously comfortable), and overall build. These are just a few of the reasons I would pick the Multi over the Nero for a best budget pack.