Comfort vs Minimalism in Backpacking

This year I've tried out a bunch of new backpacking gear! Hiking gear that leans much more towards comfort rather than purely minimalism or super ultralight. What have my thoughts been? As someone who for 8 or so years has been thru hiking with an extremely minimal kit, this was an interesting change.
I think a lot of what I found boils down to what kind of a hike you personally want. Super minimalism or super ultralight gear is great! But it requires way more effort to be safe and comfortable with. Do you want to hike 5 miles further when you're already tired, just to find a campsite that will be safe for your ultralight shelter? Most wouldn't. Are you willing to hike, simply to be warm as you don't have any gear that is warm enough to take breaks in the cold in? Most want that extra layer.
So hey, carry what you want, and carry what will suit your trip the best! Everybodies desires and styles of backpacking are different. Do what is comfortable to you, and feels safe to you. You could always send things home later, if you find you have too much.
Check out this article about the 6lb base weight pack that I used on my Pacific Crest Trail thru hike, where I include a toooon of suggestions on more comfort gear, compared to my minimal kit.
jupiterhikes.com/2023/07/07/my...
Or just check out the gear that I've been using this year!
vvv vvv vvv
Sunglasses - tinyurl.com/mrx785s6
Shorts - amzn.to/36VWUJV
Sun Shirt - amzn.to/3FgUXpu
Shoes - amzn.to/3u6FMKm
Shoes 2 - amzn.to/41WOA4e
Smart Watch - amzn.to/3mz7ePp
Hat - amzn.to/3yBmI8c
Backpack - palantepacks.com/
Pack Liner - www.gossamergear.com/
Quilt - tinyurl.com/yc2h5d54
Sleeping Pad - amzn.to/3Jx85cB
Tent - tinyurl.com/yc8kdj35
Tent Stakes - amzn.to/3bKgoRq
Rain Jacket - tinyurl.com/8kw56dsk
Fleece - tinyurl.com/ym7y8hn5
Socks - amzn.to/3DDlk73
Beanie - amzn.to/3n5XpZJ
Spoon - amzn.to/3LwH76l
Food Bag - amzn.to/3rOVfeu
Water Filter - amzn.to/42pAIQ7
Stove - amzn.to/3LkAd3Q
Cook Pot (650ml) - amzn.to/3LgqVWr
Trekking Pole - tinyurl.com/yc2xbnpr
Yoyo - amzn.to/3TqMWEi
Toothbrush - amzn.to/3tkN4GY
Floss - amzn.to/3FnONTa
Lighter - amzn.to/3zLQkyD
Knife - amzn.to/3r3psb7
Trowel - amzn.to/3u6VIMr
Blister Tape - amzn.to/3qZ55f9
Chaffe Cream - amzn.to/3bNorNu
Lip Balm - amzn.to/35Gs1Zk
Sunscreen - amzn.to/3wadTRt
Umbrella - tinyurl.com/33zm6psr
Headphones - amzn.to/3KhEPVi
Flashlight - amzn.to/3tmjRM6
Camera - amzn.to/3uMp7MW
Memory Card - amzn.to/3vrBOdZ
Micro Fiber Cloth - amzn.to/38FIyLh
External Battery - Ravpower PD Pioneer 20,000mAh 60w
Wall Charger - Ravpower PD Pioneer 30w 2-Port
Hiking Essentials Shirt! jupiterhikes.com/product/hikin...
THE BACKPACKING GEAR I USE:
www.jupiterhikes.com/gear/
If you would like to get access to content I create about this type of stuff I don't share anywhere else join me on my Patreon!
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If you'd like more info about me, my hiking, or painting:
www.jupiterhikes.com
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/ jupiterhikes

[@hive_indicator318]

Dude, the way you've always talked about gear is so nice. You aren't dogmatic and demean people for what they use. Thanks for showing respect to us. I'll probably never go as UL as you, but you've given lots of tips I actually use.

[@JupiterHikes]

Thank you for watching! I hope I presented the topic well. It's something I thought a ton about for the last 1,000 or so miles while using this 'heavier' but more 'comfortable' gear

[@christopherch7307]

👍🐿👍

[@potteryeti68]

good stuff as always man!

[@yart4420]

I'd like to see a video on the skill of finding a comfortable sleep area using a thin foam pad. Particularly in areas that the average hiker wouldn't think it's possible to do.

[@Doesch]

same

[@kileNoe]

Lol it's not comfortable are you insane

[@MarkWarren-com]

Ultralight skills videos (site selection, meal prep, menu choices, packing techniques) would be a welcome addition. Skill is more important than gear in many situations.

[@safir2241]

in ultralight hiking, knowledge replaces weight.

[@timothyhahn1847]

Hey Jupiter, I never really do this (especially on my account with my real name), but wanted to reach out and say hi. Don't know if you'll remember me, but I was the Korean dude who, last year, when you were catching up to me just before the private zoo before Big Bear, tried to get out of the way onto some rocks, only for the sand to crumble and me to fall flat on my face. I was so flabbergasted that I used my real name and not the new trail name I got like a day or two before. I just really wanted to thank you for your kind words/attitude that day, as well as the nice message you sent my tram, it really meant a lot. Also was nice to see you re-saw my tramily up near... Government Camp, if I remember correctly? Just wanted to let you know that I ended up (almost) finishing. I had to turn around about 10 miles from the border due to the fire closure and had to flip around a ton to grab the closures that reopened behind me, but I'll count it :) I don't know if I can say that your words made all the difference, but I can definitely say that they made the difference that week, and sometimes that's all you really need, you know? I haven't really been watching any hiking videos, especially from 2023, since I'm still... getting over it? But I clicked on this one out of curiosity (especially because I'm going on a section of the CT with friends in a few days and wanted some inspiration). And I'm really glad I did, and glad to see you're still doing well. Thanks again for your kindness, Ask Jeeves (Tim). P.S. Seeing Jo made me smile. She was so kind to me at the beginning, despite kicking me and my tramily's ass in mileage every day, haha. I really haven't been keeping up with the trail gossip/news, but I hope you and her are both well.

[@JupiterHikes]

Jo says hello! She remembers seeing you in a few places around the first 200 miles or so. Was great to meet you! That section just before big bear is rough, and I don't remember the falling but definitely remember the encounter as you were very friendly, as was your tramily. I probably should have stopped to camp with them but something always tells me to go a bit further. It's not about the steps but the lessons and enjoyment along the way. You hiked the PCT. Some fires got in the way, but you did it. A great trail family and I'm sure a lot of amazing memories to hold for the rest of your life. Hope to see you again out there somewhere

[@chrisr2925]

Brilliant video. This was philosophy 101 for backpackers. Backpackers are on several journeys at the same time. The first is simply point A to point B on a map. The second is the journey between the journeys of dialing in gear. Then there is the journey between your ears. Why do you hike? What's the purpose? What do you want out of backpacking. Too much time is spent on the first two journeys. I think you spend a lot of time on the 3rd series of questions and would encourage others to do the same.

[@denismoreau3646]

It’s nice to have choices good for you. 😊

[@KuntryRD]

I alway enjoy the way you present stuff. Your honesty is welcome in this dog-eat-dog world.

[@phillipp1399]

A taste of the forbidden fruit. Next season it’ll be a zenbivy and a chair! Neat to get your perspective. Being way less experienced I definitely carry “comfort” gear (tent, inflatable pad, bear can lol) exactly for the flexibility. Over a few years I’ve enjoyed deciding and learning to do with less. I’m definitely a “never chair-er” but giving up that inflatable pad might not ever be a thing. And sometimes I still struggle with the wall-free emotional discomfort of the tarp, but working on it. No 6lb goal or anything but interested in trying the different experiences.

[@Reskamo314]

The reasoning about the gear choices for different occasions is so beautiful.

[@wolfeadventures]

I think your gear arc is similar to mine and many others. Once you have gone almost as light as possible you realize you can still hit the pace and distance you want with a bit more weight and comfort. Makes the trail that much more enjoyable.

[@christopherch7307]

I appreciate your time. 👍🐿👍

[@smoothbrain8519]

loved this, thanks for the insight, Jupiter ✨

[@KevinRStrauss]

Above all else, "if it's working for you then keep on doing it". Our experience, needs, and preferences change over time and so will the gear and hiking we choose to use/do. But without trying something and doing the experiment we'll never really know how it works for us. ☮❤🤝

[@wildwilhelm8994]

Great video ❤❤

[@nickbnash]

Thanks for the great video! I really appreciate your perspective.

[@timbschwartz]

Really enjoyed this, Jupiter! Nice work.

[@dirtbagoutside]

Great perspective! I love my tarp!! Tents nice too.. depending situation.. but my go to is my tarp!!

[@t.vanoosterhout233]

As always, a balanced and intelligent explanation of your trail (and, may I add, life) choices. Definitely inspiring, not for copying (couldn't get away with your 'fakir' gear) but emulation.

[@ifonlyseethrumyeyes8957]

Awesome Juniper! Big thumbs up 😎👍

[@geoknee]

I love the “Both/And” suggestion. Thanks, as always a great evaluation.

[@tombebee]

Interesting video. Although I have sampled being fairly ultralight in the past, I found that the ability to be more flexible outweighed the lighter pack. You kept using the term luxury, and while yes, the tent, sleeping pad and stove are in some degree "luxury", IMHO the best term is flexibility - and you did allude to that. Good topic, I enjoy your content and the fact that you always seem to have a smile on your face despite the predicament.

[@paavoviuhko7250]

What a great video. Now I don't use a thin pad like you do but I bought the NeoAir but I've never used it. I use the original Thermarest pad that came out in the 90's. It may be a bit heavier but just as compact. It has never failed. I am not a thru hiker. I don't own a vehicle and I don't fly across the country to get to a trail. Everything I do is local.. I think all of this is travelling light. I bike to my preferred location simply to reduce the weight of traffic, another way to reduce your load. My whole purpose is to get into the silence and I don't have to fly across the country to get it. I live in a wilderness area and all I need to do is to get away from the proximity of town to get away from the poison of traffic. By the way I just recently looked up your video on a hundred ways to travel ultralight. I have to say it's the best video I have seen on that topic. You don't just mimic what other people are doing but you find your own solutions. That is an important teaching that a lot of people fail to pick up on. There is a reason why you are the best. I get annoyed with the constant imitation of the popular KZbinrs. You are way beyond that because you show people to think for themselves. Sorry about the length of this.

[@toddgrant7190]

Listening to your nice video, I am reminded of where Ray Jardine ended up in his book “Trail Life”. Ray Jardine is perhaps the originator of backpacking minimalism, in addition to being the inventor of the first “Friends”, the ultimate mountaineering climbing anchor. In “Trail LIfe” he said you should pick the hiking gear pick that works for you, remembering that the gear is not an end in itself but a tool to access and enjoy the wilderness. Again, nice video.

[@ohheymans]

Love this, and another factor I don’t think you’ve mentioned is local restrictions. Personally, I only ever go backpacking in my local state parks where dispersed camping isn’t allowed, which is the main reason I’ve never tried out a closed cell foam sleeping pad. Since I only ever have a few nights at a time to get out there, I’d rather carry my inflatable pad and spend more time in the woods than drive an extra few hours just to hike in a place where I’m allowed to sleep on softer ground. Part of a decision like that is respecting your local trail organizations.

[@JupiterHikes]

Great point I had not considered too deeply!

[@Buffenmeyer]

It is true, that a thorough knowing of oneself is the best way to prepare for an excursion. That’s why on my next trip I’ll be taking a chair and a box of Twinkies. Love the content! 😸

[@KrizAkoni]

Outstanding perspective on the subject. 🤓

[@Hvn1957]

I think you presented this perfectly. I've been backpacking since the early seventies, and I have always tried to stay fairly light. However, I am the guy who loves walking, and hates camping. So I've learned over the years to minimize load, and maximize comfort. Thank you for another great video.

[@lecoqlico]

I spend a lot of hours creating my first real gearlist and this question about comfort was a huge point, I really feel like I don't need that much comfort but at the same time, the lack of experience makes me want to play it safe and go with a more forgiving setup. I thinks it's something hard to balance and at some point, I'll have to try it out and see what works for me and accept that I may make mistakes at first! Thanks for the video, as always, very inspiring

[@fanrik9583]

Hey man. Just some advice from someone who got into backpacking about a year ago. When I started, I wanted to get a good setup from the beginning so that I wouldn't have to change stuff out later on (boy, was I wrong). I spent a lot of time researching and came up with what I thought was the perfect shopping list for a balance between comfort and weight. I got myself a nice budget light weight chair, a tiny pump, an ultra light cutting board, a collapsable cup, a light weight double wall free standing tent and way too many ultra light dry bags. But even light things add up and now a year later, I find myself either not using these items or wanting to change them out for something simpler. Comfort costs. Minimalism on the other hand is practically free. Therefore, I'd suggest you do the opposite of what I did. Start in a safe environment where you know you can bail out at any minute and then go as minimal as you can. If you don't know whether you are going to need it, don't take it*. Your first night might suck, but it will give you a better understanding of where you actually need to add more weight in order to gain a little more comfort, and more importantly, where you are completely fine with what you got. I wasn't watching JupiterHikes at the time, but considering that you are, your current gear list is likely way more minimalist than mine ever was. Still, I think the lesson applies. Hope it helps. *within reason of course. Don't leave your phone and rely on the stars for navigation, or leave the bear spray and rely on your martial arts. You know what I mean.

[@sethgrotzke]

Thanks for this fair review!

[@tinmanandoliveoylsadventur7129]

Love this video. It touches on some very important things. There is one thing, however, age. Yes age. When I was 13 or whatever. I used to take a blanket to walk (hike) to the river. San Luis Rey River in the '70s. I slept so comfortably. Several years later when I was in the Navy in the middle east doing some kinda special ops type of things. I didn't want to climb into my rack with that 2 inch mattress pad to rest knowing that at any time I could be woken up. I slept lying down by a vent, no pad at all, my pillow was my shirt. I was so comfortable and happy that I could rest for a little while. Years went by. I was at mile 112.5 of the pct. My REI flash mattress pad leaked, it was 24f, I would freeze every time that the pad would leak out. It was so uncomfortable. My pillow, a blow up pillow that I will never use, kept my head up and my body was sore and it was freezing. I ended up having to go to the doc and physical therapy because by now in my '50s I had spinal stenosis. Damn. A few years later, after agua dulce, my nemo pad got a leak. It was not cold but the lack of support made my body hurt a lot. I made it to the fire station by Green Valley, Casa De Luna was not longer there. My body was hurting. I made it to hiker town, paid $100.00 to be taken to a REI in Burbank to get another pad. No an 1/18 inch gossamer wasn't going to do the trick. I needed to comfort. Got another air mattress. As far as shelters, I think that it depends more on the environment, Sierra, summer vs winter. You would not like a tarp in sub zero temps. Lets be real. I think your viewers will get a good glimpse of your wants and needs. Does it help them in their endeavors? I don't know. Happy hiking, -Tin man-

[@haughtable]

Thank you for such a measured and clear video! Hope to hear more! Cheers!

[@Pineyhunter]

Couldn’t agree more. Part of the fun of backpacking is enjoying the trail in so many different ways, gear included. On trips with friends and family I carry a UL chair. Why because we sit and talk more. When alone, a thin foam kiester mat, because I rarely sit for long. Either way the experience is always worth the adjustment. Thank you for sharing your perspective in such a reflective yet influential way.

[@EpicBoxOfChocolates]

I never thought of what is important to me, the camp or the trail. Thank you for giving me something to ponder on!

[@davidhyde9310]

Good video. Well put. As for myself, I have been moving more and more to the minimalist side. I finally got my base weight down to right at 10 lbs (9.98, to be exact)...and I am proud of that. Not one shred of dyneema...or a goose down anything. But, I do use an inflatable sleeping pad. As well, I carry most of the things I used to carry - just no longer the items I don't really need. I use a tarp for shelter, also, but I don't feel exposed with it. Not at all. A 25 litre pack to hold it all, but a conventional nylon one. As such, I am enjoying the heck out of being able to set off with less than 20 lbs (total) on my back. I can't see going back....but never say never. Perhaps that will change. I am 62, after all. Maybe when I am 80...super luxury will become important.

[@hyklyfmatto9714]

It's awesome that you are willing to try new things and learn new ways after having so much experience already.

[@KimberlyGreen]

I wonder what the conversation would be like if 2023 Comfortable Jupiter walked up in the "When Two Ultralight Backpackers Meet" video from 4 years ago. 🤔

[@wio2189]

"I bet he has a GF"

[@Parker-oc8es]

Good stuff

[@dennisthompson9420]

Great video Jupiter. You're such a cool laid back dude. As I get a little older I find myself using more comfort items. Just turned 59 and bought my first air mattress, lol. Every once in a while I will " cowboy camp" under the stars. I will keep throwing that pack on until I can't do it anymore 😂. Thanks again for your videos

[@jimizxztheorginal]

Man I love your positive vibes.

[@DingDong-fq2mo]

Nice one, Jupiter. There's a time and place for it all.

[@gretat1087]

Such a thoughtful video. Thank you for sharing this perspective.

[@natlovell122]

I appreciate your videos as well as your perspective. Thanks for sharing and happy trails 🥾

[@NickCooper74]

Thanks, Jupiter. Well thought out video. I've been a backpacker since 1994. I always cowboy camped or tarped it. I naturally chose minimal gear because I was broke and didn't want to carry heavy stuff. It all changed when I married. The Duplex was the first tent I bought, the first one in 20-plus years of hiking. Now I'm 49 years old and I can't sleep too well on thin mats; I bought the blow-up one you're using. Things change. You're right about choosing the gear that is right for your intentions. 20-mile days? Ultralight. Wife and friends? Comfort. Keep up the good work. Oh! Also, thanks for showing your GET videos. I backpacked all over NM for 10 years and I appreciated seeing that trail get the "Jupiter' treatment.

[@NickCooper74]

@Sendadm-2meviamyprofile What?

[@hoser7706]

That’s the revelation! Choose the gear you need for what you are doing.

[@Jlundeen]

First time viewer here. Good video! I enjoyed your considerate approach. I've never been an UL backpacker and likely never will, since I love the comfortable camp experience so much. I like to hike around 10 miles a day, take my time, and spend a lot of time enjoying camp. If I wanted to put in more miles, cover the distance and hike 20-30 miles a day I could see lightening my pack a lot. But I liked what you said about you enjoying the minimalist experience and how you feel it brings you closer to nature. That's great!! Edit: It's funny that your "heavy" gear is the kind Im considering to lighten my load, haha!

[@OutdoorsPodcast]

Really enjoyed your take on “you can replace this gear with skills”! Never heard it stated that as eloquently. Thanks for sharing and making a great video

[@shaggyterrell8460]

Great video. In the wise words of Bruce Lee “Be like Water” Don’t get stuck in your comfort zone, you become stagnant. Try new things and use what you learn when you need them depending on the situation. Why limit yourself and your equipment to fit into a mold that you think you should fit in. When you’re water you fit in all molds.

[@paisleyfamily5972]

Great presentation. Very nuanced. Personally as someone who hikes between 15-25 miles I like a little luxury. When I started with my son in the scouts I was carrying 50-60 lbs. Now I’m down to 35 with food and water and I’m pretty happy and not too sore at the end of the day and I have luxury like a tent and pad and chair. I’m good with where I am. Not too heavy not too light. Comfortable

[@sheilasunshine9173]

That’s right around where I am and I’m pretty happy with it too! I’m new so I’m wondering how I’ll change in the future, lighter and longer hiking doesn’t seem to be in my future. I can only go about 10 miles before me feet hurt so bad I can’t continue!

[@biomorphic]

50-60 lbs is crazy. Before I embraced minimalism I did a trip to Guatemala. I had a pack just because I was moving constantly. the pack was 23 kg. And it is one of the best packs for heavy loads, an Osprey Atmos. Oh man, that trip taught me a lot. Now I travel with a 40 liter duffelpack, which is just 500 g. And with the laptop, charger, etc. Never above 10 kg, not even in winter. I have been abroad for 6 months in a row, living in two different continents, with just the content of that bag. I didn't need anything else. I am pretty sure I can do any hike with a base weight < 6 kg and still be very comfortable. 50-60 lbs is insane. 15-25 miles can be done in a day with a 10 liter bag by the way.

[@grit1679]

My biggest concern with you Jupiter is you should carry a few Strike Anywhere matches sealed in a straw. I'm always concerned that some day you're going to have issues with your lighter and freeze to death--and it's not worth dying over a quarter of an ounce.

[@waldradlerbonn4010]

You're so right! These are the lessons which many days of backpacking can tell, and you have expressed them so well! Greetings from Germany

[@northwestwalking]

Always love the way you lay it out for us judgment free and honest. As an older guy, comfort is becoming more important than ever so you have to look at the trade offs.

[@northwestwalking]

I just realized that it sounded like I was calling you an older guy. Whoops! I was referring to myself. As I am getting older, comfort is becoming a bigger priority. You good sir- still have many years to go. Cheers!

[@Seamus3051]

Thanks for a thoughtful analysis of why we hike. So many miss the idea that what we do today is set in stone and remains unchangeable; not so; as the analogy; "different strokes for different for different folks", can be extended to "different strokes for different folks, at different times". Nature adapts as different needs arise; why can't we?

[@ryanmelius3075]

Thanks for your balanced and reasonable perspective. Great insights, and I'm always able to glean something new when I watch your videos.

[@outsiderswalks5460]

definitely agree, that main difference is options and experience - very minimal mats, tarp... demends more consideration and knowledge - for most people a tent is the better choice - i go back and forward depending on the trip, with others, tent, for less mile trips... for solo trips, love a tarp and very minimal setup as i am walking all day - and it just gives you a deeper understanding of both hiking, gear, yourself and nature to explore what different gear and approches does to your experience

[@chriso9724]

I appreciate your perspective, thanks

[@TheHikingChick1]

Excellent video!😊

[@roselee_explores]

Love how you presented this topic in such a polite way! Each trip I seem to pack differently just based on mileage and how much time I'll have for camp life at the end of the day. It's a journey and we all can pick a different trail 😊

[@brycewalburn3926]

Jupiter: "I think a 9lb baseweight is still pretty great" Me, with my 15lb baseweight: "Well, shit"

[@MrJedi5150]

😂 I'm scared to weigh my gear. I haven't been backpacking in a few years, but I think I'd be quite jealous of your 15lb base weight.

[@BurtReynoldstash]

You forgot the camp chair. Next level comfort right there. Lol😂

[@caroleecole3140]

Great video! I really like the way you described both genres, giving validity to each system in their own way…..then describing why you chose the ultralight!

[@MrKuken911]

It's funny how when I was a kid/teenager (back in the late 70's and 80's), I was sleeping in tents that were leaking in rainy days, directly on the floor with rectangular shape sleeping bags. I was cooking in a camp fire. Everything was super heavy to carry. Etc. Nothing was comfortable and yet I was so happy. Some of my best memories. Now I sleep way better when I camp and it's quite light to carry. Everything's so convenient. I have great memories too. Bottom line, comfort probably is overrated, but as one ages, one learns to appreciate it 😅

[@jayv.8298]

Always cool to have your opinion 🤙🏾

[@MAXCOBRALAZERFACE]

I dig the tent 🏕

[@dakotaescher1]

Love this channel and your videos.

[@jamieout]

Met you at Granite Park Chalet the other day. You sat and chatted for a while with others and didn’t take your pack off the entire time. Proves you know what works on trail. Hope the rest of the North Circle Loop went well.

[@peterjohnson6273]

More experience, more knowledge, more understanding, more decisions based on the three. It's growing up. :>)

[@pablovegvari559]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, and discoveries!!! As you mentioned it, it all depends on the type of trip, and the amount of comfort or discomfort that you're willing to experience...it's also very different, if you have to pack 8 days of food, because there are no resupplies in between, which leaves you with little room for a lot of luxury items....unless you "upgrade" to an 80 liter pack!!

[@brianhollien9579]

Great video! Some of your best advice so far. I definitely prefer a balanced approach. I don't mind a 10lb or even 12lb base weight if it opens up more opportunities on the trail. And I'm old so...comfort in camp is becoming more important.

[@anotheryoutuber_]

i feel this, i use to run a super minimal setup bordering on unsafe some times, but added a inflatable pillow a few years ago. never expected a dedicated pillow to make as much difference as it did. i was even ready to change up my closed cell foam pad for a fluffy pad but the pillow just changed added so much comfort i didnt need to, i may very well get something even softer later but sometimes just a lil more comfort makes a big difference.

[@isolatedfire]

Definitely enjoy all your videos and definitely learn something every time I watch your channel. Although I’m never gonna be an ultralight badass, you inspire me to do more

[@cfoscoop]

Got back last weekend from my first trip, ended up with around 40 lbs of gear. i was shocked when I weighed it as I thought I was packing as light as I could. But watching these videos among other stuff on youtube, I've found I can start by revisiting what I'm packing - fewer clothes, less food packaging, etc., and also looking into updating my older Big 3 gear with some lighter options, should definitely get me down closer to sub 30 all in, which I'm looking forward to. Thanks for sharing your insights!

[@JupiterHikes]

You'll get there! Just a matter of camping more, and asking yourself what you really need and what you really enjoy! In the end you'll find that a lot of things aren't necessary, and a lot of things don't actually matter towards your happyness out there. It's finding that balance of weight and comfort, which comes from the experience (and resources like these videos!)

[@chrischandras3390]

Awesome comparison!

[@Learningthetruth7]

Camp chair, decent tent, great sleep system.....I'm all in!!!

[@klifwommack8804]

Love your videos!

[@cowboynetic8587]

One of your best videos man

[@pjhikes]

Well said. /bow

[@davef5916]

great breakdown brother!

[@xmetal280]

I'm a bit older, so having a bit of comfort is a physical requirement to be happy on trail. With careful gear selection I can still take all the comforts (even a chair!) and still be under 12lbs and it is nice to have the flexibility. Thanks for sharing your perspective, very interesting!

[@JupiterHikes]

Well said, in the end it's all about what works for the individual while there is no one true perfect way for all!

[@travisla1217]

Spot on. I’ve never been quite as minimalist as you, but have had the same experience and insights in coming from more “traditional” to have a light kit and taking less. Now I tailor my kit to the trip - what’s the terrain, what’s the weather like, am I thru hiking by myself or doing a casual trip with friends who want to hang out in camp and day hike. I really enjoy different styles of backpacking

[@RestlessKiwiHiker]

Very well done video. Nice that you explained logically. I hadn't considered the restricted places for the thinner mat. I fully understand your decision to stay minimalist.

[@AutanOnEmporteLeVent]

Very positive a lot of wisdom in your thoughts.

[@CesarValdez13]

Another great vid, Jup! I could really relate to you and agree with your perspectives. I've done a fair amount of SUL trips (even including sub 4lb BPW at times), but most of my hikes for the past 12 years or so have been between 7-9lbs BPW. And for the past 5 years or so it's hovered at 8lbs the majority of the time. Yet just a few weeks ago I had a great SUL trip, sleeping on some thin foam. So you really can have the best of both worlds. When are you going to hike in Scandinavia, dude? :) But keep up the great work man. You have one of the best hiking channels on KZbin and I'm always excited when I see an upload from you. Peace!

[@JupiterHikes]

you are the OG cesar thank you greatly for all the early inspiration and sharing!! I don't so much plan beyond a year ahead so not sure on scandinavia plans but im definitely into it and would like to!

[@Mark-pk1fm]

Great insight. Also your body will become accustomed and adjust to lying on a less cushioned mat over time, it may seem like a really bad idea initially but if you practice it enough it can be more than adequate.

[@Kangsteri]

I prefer the heavier domed tent too, cause it's possible to setup without any lanyard where it's not possible.

[@khamen723]

I’ve never been able to convince anyone to spend the night with me in the woods, with only a tarp but that’s how I camp. 🎉

[@ngltbhimo]

Love the vibes

[@ewik939]

Best depiction I’ve seen of the concept of UL and the choices you make! Eye opening, my pack is as light as it can be for now - maybe more experience will allow me to lighten it even more in the future, but not yet

[@biomorphic]

I do daily hikes, once in a while, so I don't have a setup anymore, not even the pack. Humidity killed the internal coating when I left the pack in the basement. I loved that pack. Anyway, when I was a teenager, and ultralight didn't exist, I did 4 long hiking trips. Relatively long, from 5 days to two weeks long. I bought a decent tent that was definitely heavy compared to what is available now, and I was also bringing with me too many things. A lot of socks, underwear in abundance, and many shirts. So my pack was heavy, very heavy I would say. But I didn't have any mattress, not even a pad, neither a pillow. And I managed. Sleeping on the tent floor wasn't so uncomfortable. I didn't have trekking poles, and I didn't have a chair either, and man, it makes me smile when I see people packing a chair. if I was going to hike today, I would definitely go ultralight, but not to the extent of sleeping under a tarp, because that is too much for me. I think everyone is different, and there is not one setup that fits all.

[@jeremiah1528]

I wish ZPacks would collab with you. You being a Floridian and all like they are lol. And really liking UL gear. I think with your perspective, experience, input and ideas and their gear making ability that would be rad ! ZPacks !!! Collab with Jupiter !!!! You guys could do a really crazy UL and then a normal UL lol. I love your perspective and content Jupiter ❤ rock on buddy....

[@JanCarlo88]

dude, that music from yoga with adrienne trips me out - heard it so many times in a different situation

[@ianwarner1429]

A tent is a safety and security aspect for me. An illusion for sure. The mosquitoes here in Ontario are ridiculous 😂

[@andyveres3982]

Yeah boyyyyyy

[@alexmills2043]

By far the best backpacking channel on YT. If you pushed out more content on consistent days, changed up editing a bit (including thumbnails/titles), I bet you'd experience a lot of growth. Probably not what you want to do or you likely would've at this point, but mostly just trying to say your channel's a hidden gem.

[@juskojj]

it's a balance of comfort on trail and in camp. for somethings depending on the person you have to compromise trail vs camp comfort. ie if you can't sleep on a 1/8" pad you have to compromise at the heavier pad for a better night sleep.

[@niabothwell2199]

So appreciative for the comfort haha

[@wisenber]

That 1/8 inch pad closer to the ground is more comfortable than a 20 inch wide pad that my shoulders don't fit.

[@donovanruiz4404]

ty. you rock.

[@SummitSeeker546]

Interesting video! I am not a long distance thru hiker but if I were then I think I’d go UL. Comfort and security from what Mother Nature can throw at you are of high importance to me. We put a bit more effort into finding that 5star campsite with an amazing view. The view is everything to us. A good comfortable sleep after a hard day is critical to the experience. As I’ve been getting older I realize weight does matter and thus I’ve been cutting weight wherever possible without compromising comfort and security. My setup works for me and the type of backpacking we do… Enjoy your well thought out videos!

[@izzeoutside5549]

You deserve some luxury now friend 😊😊😊

[@JCJ7754]

I think it's all about compromise and how much you are Prepared to take that. For me personally, I take the middle ground lightweight but with a decent amount of comfort, flexibility and safety. I'm happy to lessen my daily mileage and carry a little more...but not too much! Compromise!!

[@wio2189]

Great video Jupiter! To me, it's not only the question enjoyment at camp vs on trail. I do pretty big miles BUT I do enjoy hiking with other people and finding a camp spot big enough for a tramily that also accommodates the minimalist gear is not really possible.