Dumb decisions? Looking back on gear I ditched in 2023

[@paisley8519]

I also don’t like my stove kicking around in my pack uncovered, so instead of a stuff sack, I tie it up in a bandana. That way, I have a kitchen “towel” to wipe my hands on or dry out my pot. It also stops the annoying rattle!

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for the comment! That's a solid idea. I HATE the rattle haha.

[@stuartb9194]

We should all come clean and admit the gear is a big part of the fun of getting out there. Never settle!

[@timbschwartz]

At the very least, its something fun to obsess over! I think for me over-optimizing gear is important in that it gives me something "backpacky" to work on while at home.

[@JeanRiling]

​@timbschwartz Love this, and SAME. I'm a new subscriber and currently enjoying your videos while packing my stuff away from a 5-day car-camping trip (don't judge, y'all, I've got kids that aren't up to carrying their own gear yet). This is stuff I love to hear about!

[@memathews]

Yeah, my LST stays in my pocket, but it nicely trims the tent pegs I make locally each night, which saves me way more than the weight of the LST.

[@timbschwartz]

Oooo I have to start doing that!

[@lolobeans]

Oh this is smart! And a fun activity. Might have to try this. As long as you get to camp before dark!

[@andymytys]

I have a bushcraft setup. Frost river pack, Firebox 5” stove, Esee 6 knife, ferro rod, etc. I take that out as often as I take out my gram weenie UL (sometimes SUL) setup and no knife. 😅 Different kits, different skills used in the field, lots of fun had either way, and at the end of the day I have a boatload of skills and can safely navigate the out of doors while cutting out what others feel are “essentials.”

[@timbschwartz]

Love it! I, too, have a Mora, Silky saw, etc. that occasionally makes an appearance when I want a more "bushcrafty" experience. Thanks for the comment!

[@andymytys]

@@timbschwartz I see dayhikes as training opportunities so I don’t like to carry too light of a pack. But I don’t want to replicate a multi-day backpacking load. No better way to make your pack heavy than to go Bushcraft. 🤣

[@peterc5167]

Good tips thanks. In place of a gossamer gear thin light and sit mat, I have cut a similar sized mat from foam backed foil designed to improve the efficiency of a radiator (stick on wall behind), it’s cheap, light,similar thickness to a thin light and with a reflective layer it’s maybe better. I fold it and squeeze into a bag as a sit matt.

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for the tips, Peter!

[@davewebb1115]

A 40cm x 50cm piece of 3mm Evazote makes a great sit mat and scrunches down small into a pocket

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for the tip, Dave!

[@davidaxman]

The key words really are what experience you are looking for. Some don't care about the food and seek feeling light, some really look forward a good meal and a cup of coffee. I value my double wall ti cup and every morning is better with it.

[@timbschwartz]

Totally agree! All about finding a setup that makes you happy. That's why we're out there, right?

[@saraschumer2458]

I also do not like my sawyer on my water bottle! I gladly carry a cnoc bag too.

[@timbschwartz]

Glad it's not just me, then! Thanks for the comment!

[@user-ul5yu5hk9k]

You can use sawyer fitting and tube extension with a urine catheter in line clamp to control the flow better from cnoc with minimal change in weight. Strangely, no one ever talks about this modification.

[@timbschwartz]

Interesting! Thanks for the tip!

[@petersherman2552]

The GG bit of closed cell foam (or the mountain laurel good night eva) earns its carry weight many times over. Stops you sliding around, quiets mat noise, insulates a little bit, protects and if you do get a puncture its a backup (until you can see what you're doing repair wise), stove wind shield, you can kneel on it and you can sit on it. Glucosamine with chondritin is no good for osteo (that's an immune system issue) but for general wear and tear joint repair its great for people who overdo it ie any hiker over 50. It's not a vitamin, its joint building material. Most supermarkets have it.

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for the tips, Peter!

[@stirfrywok2927]

Im glad to see you kept the Cnoc bag because I fnally got one! Great video

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for watching! Yeah I just couldn't part with it lol

[@aadmonk]

The GG thin light is awesome. I was unsure about it at first, but it has turned out to be one of my most used/ multi purpose pieces of gear.

[@timbschwartz]

Can't wait to pick one up!

[@Mike-vd2qt]

If you want to try a different "Ass Pad" to sit on, try a 3' x 6" piece of Tyvek. I nap on it stretched out, sit on it folded up, use it as a tent entrance doormat, gear cover in a drizzle, lay across brush for shade, wrapped in it for warmth. Many uses from 3oz. ☮

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for the tip! I love tyvek, but haven't taken it for this purpose.

[@jhonyermo]

I like Tim content and suggestions and general chat every time a new video is posted. You really have a fan. Thanks

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks so much for the kind words, Jhony! I'm glad you've been enjoying the discussion :)

[@canadafree2087]

There are many crap tricks KZbinrs use not to make the viewers life better, but rather to just make money off the viewer and hell with the quality of their life. 1. Endless reviews of new gear to get some kickback of their money and/or views. 2. Every year, gear I am going to ditch, again to stimulate more money in gear. Want to know who to trust, Look at the person who has owned this piece of gear for 5 years, this piece for 15, their piece for 10 years. Those are the people who care more for the experience and skill rather than the money in gear. Avoid the fanboys in ultralight, in no-stuff sacks, no knives. The reality is it may be lightweight in one area, extra luxury in another area. Avoid absolutes that seek to dictate all areas of the sport.

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for the feedback! I think there's a balance to be had here - a good video should be informative and entertaining, which sometimes means trying out new things (or getting rid of things) and letting the viewer know how it worked out. Plus, talking about gear is fun. The important thing is that all business relationships with gear companies are disclosed, and that no one is misrepresenting their usage of a product. Like I said at 10:45, don't let some dude on the internet tell you what you should carry. Thanks for watching!

[@LaconianConcepts]

I like what both of you said. Carry on!

[@garagegrowngear7333]

Good thoughts all around Tim!!!

[@timbschwartz]

Hey thanks so much! I appreciate you checking out the channel.

[@jordanlee2812]

im taking my x-mug no matter what, need it to have my coffee and eat breakfasts at the same time 😅 absolutely essential for my morning enjoyment haha. Im also trying to use the victorinox swiss card lite instead of the SAK classic on some overnights! its 0.2 ounces heavier, but the scissors are nicer, and i like it's extra bits for the weight. I usually throw in an opinel No.6 knife as an actual knife to supplement it, thats 0.9oz.

[@timbschwartz]

Haha all that matters is that you're having a good time! I keep seeing the Opinels pop up - I should pick one up given the cost.

[@lolobeans]

Same here with x-mug except I prefer their x-cup. İt's a bit smaller and lighter but still big enough for my coffee.

[@MissNikkor]

In French we have an expression " Il n'y a que les fous qui ne changent pas d'idée " 🤣 So I'm continually changing my gear thinking it will be better. But... it's not always the right decision 😂 For my part, I came back to these two items no matter how long I hike, I always have my X-Cup with me as well as my Zero Elinox chair because I like to lean back when I'm sitting. It's total comfort during my lunch break!

[@timbschwartz]

Love it! I really think part of the fun is just making changes and seeing what happens, even if it doesn't work out.

[@JessicaTPeterson]

I have a box of stuff sacks. Probably time to give away the ones I never use. Thanks for another thoughtful video. Fine tuning backpacking skills and gear makes for never-ending fun!

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for watching, Jessica! Yeah, I love tweaking the small things as well :)

[@martinlizo]

Good video, thanks for sharing. A suggestion. I also ditched my linelocs in my tarps a few years ago, but then I realised a few things: (1) when not using linelocs, the cordage required is longer, so it ends up adding more bulk, more possibilities of getting tangled and more weight; (2) linelocs use shorter and lighter ribbon, compared to the heavy weight webbing that is required for cord attachement points. So I started using linelocs again and my tarp ended up being lighter. Cheers!

[@timbschwartz]

That's a really good point, Martin! Didn't think of that.

[@martinlizo]

You're welcome @@timbschwartz. I also recommend you learn some sewing so you're not afraid of removing or adding linelocs to your shelters. I like your channel, very useful. Cheers!

[@rootsandpeaks]

Great video, Tim. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. ENJOY that coffee.

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks so much for watching, and for the kind words! I certainly did... was jittery for like 2 days haha

[@rootsandpeaks]

@@timbschwartz as long as your eyes don’t start twitching, you are fine:)

[@xmetal280]

Ah the buttpad. I, too, got one right away when I started backpacking and quickly discovered that I am simply too old and creaky to sit on the ground anymore. I traded in for the weight penalty of a Chair Zero, which made my camp life so much more happy. And when I just need to plop for a few minutes, I use my dyneema rain skirt as a waterproof shield to sit on the ground as it weighs almost nothing and takes up almost no room in my pack.

[@timbschwartz]

I hear really good things about those chairs!

[@lolobeans]

İt's hard to go back once you've taken the Chair Zero out! On the rare occasion I don't take it I usually regret it at some point. I consider the chair my reward for otherwise having cut my base weight so much 😂

[@xmetal280]

@@timbschwartz For just one pound and the pack space of a large water bottle, it's hard to beat especially if you want some comfort on the back and knees while being at camp.

[@rungavagairun]

Interesting. I just added that Sea to Summit cup into my kit because I like the measurements it has in it. I use the cup instead of my Toaks pot lid. I don't even drink out of the cup much, although I did enjoy a warm cup of hot cocoa with breakfast this morning after a night in the mid 20s. I love my CNOC Vecto for all the reasons you mentioned, plus I have had a number of times where I had to dry camp for the night and having a full Vecto gave me 2 extra liters of water. But it also collapses nicely, so when I don't need to carry the extra water, I don't have a bulky bottle or two in my pack. Knots are great. I'm just getting started with a hammock setup and I'm enjoying learning different knots and knot variants.

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks so much for watching! Haven't thought about using the cup as a pot lid... I like it!

[@tkemp4184]

I find the gossamer 1/8 inch pad more versatile than the Zrest pad. Line lots have an advantage when wet cold freezing colditions exist ..jus a bit easier to move than a knot.....

[@timbschwartz]

Completely agree! Thank you for watching!

[@kristymoore7052]

If stuffsacks were a measure of wealth, I’d be a zillionaire. I don’t use them much while backpacking, but I can never get rid of anything that came in a stuffsack or sacks that I thought I needed but didn’t. Subscribed. :)

[@timbschwartz]

Haha same here! Thanks for subbing :)

[@jonlabie1504]

I'm right there with you on the sit pad, water bladder, and knife. I took both the sit pad and water bladder out for the last 2 years and have since re-incorporated both. Though my sit pad won't be seasonal like you. The convenience of having the water bag made carrying one again a no brainer. I typically only carry 2L of water or less when it's readily available on trails, but there are instances when cameling up is necessary. The filter on a plastic water bottle just got too cumbersome and fiddly with the height on a 1.5L bottle and having to burp it when drinking. Add to that the bulk of carrying 4 plastic bottles. Carrying one large pliable vessel reduced the number of things I need to keep track of in the backcountry. I can also keep the whole water kit rolled up in a nice tidy package. As for the knife, I haven't carried one (even a SAK) in nearly 8 years. I should clarify, I haven't carried a SAK with an actual knife. I carry a Wenger Clipper AT. The toolset has scissors, nail file, mini flat head, and well, nail clippers. As well as the obligatory toothpick and tweezers. I've found these tools are far more useful than any knife. I never did like cutting my nails with scissors...

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for the comment! Just checked out the Wenger Clipper and it seems like a great option! Not available on Amazon anymore, but I'm sure someone make something similar.

[@TheOlsonOutfit]

CNOC vecto is a huge win in my opinion. I really like that I can use it to gravity filter water while I'm doing other camp tasks.

[@timbschwartz]

Totally! I'm glad that I ended up bringing it back.

[@jasonsadler7020]

If storing the thermarest sit pad on the outside of your pack drives your crazy, then the GG thinlite is going to drive you nuts. I ditched my thinlite for the same reason. It was just irritating having it strapped to the top of my HMG backpack.

[@timbschwartz]

Good to know! Thanks for the heads up!

[@georgecrosby2549]

After a decade of using roll top stuff sacks I decided I liked zipper pouches better (and those little Granite Gear ones are so cute), then I came in to some money and decided everything should be DCF. Also the CTUG Xpac wallets are great for little blister kits, weed kits, oh god I have a problem.

[@timbschwartz]

Haha I feel you! I keep wanting to try out a zippered pouch for my electronics.

[@lolobeans]

Also ditched my LST. Now I keep the UL knife from Trail Designs (3g) in my pot and the tiny scissors from Gossamer Gear (5g) in my first aid kit. A bit redundant but given how little they weigh I like the convenience of having each where I'm likely to use them. The scissors are great (with a cap that fits over the end so they can't poke anything!).

[@timbschwartz]

Hey thanks for the tips! I just checked out both. Look like really solid and inexpensive options!

[@jhonyermo]

Pokey tiny sissors? Just use a plastic straw for a cap if need be.

[@cfoscoop]

Definitely recommend the GG Thinlite, great multi-use piece of gear! I know some people who use frameless packs also use it as a makeshift back panel. They make a rolled or a folded version, personally I got the rolled but have taken to folding it anyway, so the folded may be the move. Also for a mug, I'm a fan of the Wildo Fold-a-cup, folds down super small and weighs 20 grams, very inexpensive as well. I'm a fan of having coffee and food together especially in the mornings, so it's worth it to me.

[@timbschwartz]

Just checked out the cup - you can't beat $2.65!

[@jayv.8298]

This was funny man! For a mug, I like my GSI bowl/mug that came with the pinnacle soloist II.

[@peterc5167]

Good. I like the wildo fold-a-cup. Just 25g, not expensive (€3.50), tough and takes less space.

[@timbschwartz]

So glad you enjoyed it! Nice, I have an odd affection for GSI gear - I love their spoons.

[@jayv.8298]

Hahaha! I hate their spoon! I kept the stove and the cup, but switched the pot for the Toaks 550 ml. @@timbschwartz

[@tubulzr]

Love my X cup for morning/afternoon double espresso and the X bowl to make breakfast porridge. I'll gladly just sit on my ass, having those comforts. Some folks go UL everywhere else but bring a chair for comfort. Whatever suits your hiking needs, I'd say. Dry bags for sleeping bag and clothes and some for food and miscellaneous stuff. Depending on weather conditions, also an extra liner bag and/or backpack rain cover.

[@timbschwartz]

Totally agree - whatever keeps folks happy on trail! All that matters is that we're having fun

[@hoser7706]

Hard to beat the Swiss Classic Mini. Has it all snd is tiny. Our EDC item of choice. What do you carry for a light?

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks for watching! I typically take the Nitecore NU25

[@RAINSMAN79]

I shock cord my sak to my pack cause I’ve already lost 2. Hope the new owners of my knives enjoy them.

[@timbschwartz]

Losing things is the worst! I'm down one titanium shepherd hook from last week.

[@kristasmith7270]

All I read was “I shock cord my sak” and had to keep reading 😳😅

[@Jakelol1980]

The Victorinox Classic is the best mulitool i own and the one i use daily m. I got the Alox version and its just the best.

[@timbschwartz]

Agreed! I absolutely love mine.

[@dougnevitt2257]

Where are you planning to carry your gossamer gear thinlite pad if you get one? Or your Zlite if that?

[@timbschwartz]

Hi! I'd either fold it against the back panel, or put it in the front pocket. I'm interested to see how foldable it is, and if I can make the front pocket work.

Gotta be sleek 💯 Why having a small pack if half of the gear is outside 😁

[@timbschwartz]

Totally agree! May as well get a larger pack at that point. That's why I love my Exodus.

[@brianthiel1488]

All depends on the trip

[@jeffreycarman2185]

Your video makes me want to get out there and backpack.

[@timbschwartz]

I'm so glad that you enjoyed it! Thank you for watching!

[@offtrailadventures6500]

love my Vecto's

[@timbschwartz]

It's a great piece of gear!

[@lukeflynn7025]

❤ from 🇮🇪

[@BurtReynoldstash]

I have that Swiss Army knife on my car keys. Wouldn’t leave home with it.

[@timbschwartz]

It's a great little tool!

[@BurtReynoldstash]

@@timbschwartz I’ve had a few, my current one a Mexican blanket serape pattern one. I sometimes take the tiny squirt leatherman. That’s also a great feature packed knife, mini pliers type thing

[@iainwright-turner6210]

I carry 1 smart water bottle and the vecto and a nalgene i just can't give the nalgene up mostly because it can hold hot water well and I'll use that for a coffee 😂

[@timbschwartz]

There are some great uses for the Nalgene! I have one that I keep for colder temps so that I can put hot water in it.

[@falcoroelans3952]

I use a Toaks 750ml pot and found out that the x mug is perfect as a lit for it, it stays better on than the original lit of the pot

[@timbschwartz]

This is a really cool idea! I'll definitely test it out on a trip at some point here.

[@nickname6747]

Thanks for uploading, Tim. Insightful as ever and just, fun🫡👍

[@timbschwartz]

Thanks so much for watching! I'm glad you enjoyed it :)