Gear to Lighten your Load on a Budget!

[@rickcortes_7654]

I was an Infantry Marine. Having the title Grunt came with heavy packs and many miles hiked. Now a father of 4. I just started getting back into hiking and backpacking after many years, thank you for this awesome video, and "hacks" hope to one day run into you on the trails.

[@maxflight777]

"A fool and his money are soon parted"! ....so good to hear that you've actually tested the budget options. Love your videos!

[@jeffreycarpizo7925]

Do more of this Darwin! Including alternative for UL backspacks, tents, etc. keep up the great work Darwin🤛

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Noted! Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin

[@williamloney9584]

Jeffrey Carpizo im

[@brianhackit7900]

Jeffrey Carpizo just wait till he gets back from his bike packing trip. i think he'll have tons of tips. you think he'll live document his trip?

[@gytisdramblewolfskis8521]

I need budget backpack. Doubt i can trust china(alibaba) for comfort. I just want something cheap that can last me one or few trips(1month) and is comfy. Any suggestions anyone please?

[@philipbuckley759]

alternatives for a tent....and rain gear, and a pack cover.....gatewood poncho tarp....alternative for puffy....jacks r better stealth quilt.....makes into a poncho....two pieces of equipment for five functions...less weight and less space in the pack....

[@jimbojet8728]

I’ll stick with the Sawyer Squeeze. Saved me one time, when others were sick! I recently bought a new one with the red and blue CNOC bags. I have the Mira drops too, for back up. I have good clean water when I want it, almost ! It’s good to stay with the lightest gear, I would agree with virtually all of your recommendations, I find that I forget the cost of some of my gear long after I’ve been using it for long periods of time, whilst very glad I’ve got it! Thanks for a very good vid.

[@kirkharrington5592]

Before I even watch the series of budget backpacking, I'm going to say thank you! I'm a scout leader and we're going to take some of the kids on a short trip in a couple of months. I'm going to share your videos with them and work with them so hopefully everyone will have a great time

[@Rose-co3cp]

Great information! I just started backpacking after both my knees have been replaced.

[@fasterducky]

Thanks for your videos. I used to do a little backpacking a long time ago and never got into it because I didn't have enough time to get into the kind of shape I needed to carry all of my heavy gear and actually enjoy myself. I happened to see your channel not too long ago and was awed to see how times and gear have changed. I plan on spending the winter collecting new lighter weight, budget friendly gear and getting back on the trails next summer.

[@backpackerdad6905]

Great video series. 2017 was my switch from heavy Boy Scout type backpacking set up to lighter long distance hiking set up. This series helped me in doing that. So far I've loved the BRS stove, and the Toaks Ti 550 pot! I picked up the Outdoorsman Lab sleeping pad but being a side sleeper it was not as comfortable as I wanted. I ended up going with the Klymit V which is more comfortable IMO. and only $59. The Geertop tent is a little small for me. I camped in it a few times and I won't lie it's a 1 person tent! The saving grace is the vestibules are large and keep your pack and shoes dry. But you can't bring your pack inside your tent. Thanks again hope the Pinhoti trail hike went well (you're hiking now and won't see this til you get back). Can't wait to see the video! Thanks

[@mariahanssel9701]

Okay, this will sound a little weird, but instead of liner socks, use women's knee-high nylon stockings. Get a box of 10 or 12 for $3-$5 at the grocery store or drugstore (the brand is No Nonsense & they come in a pink box). Wear them under your wool hiking socks. You can roll them down to the height of your over-socks so they don't show. The wool sock slides easily against the the nylon liner instead of your skin, so no blisters from rubbing boots or socks. When one gives out, it's easy and cheap to replace - I always carry a couple extra with me, just in case. These have worked much better for me than regular hiking sock liners purchased at the outdoors store.

[@jlt131]

bonus: can use for pre-filtering water in conditions with lots of particulates! (Y)

[@aminimal_]

bonus: sexy legs

[@nicholask7347]

I used to wear the full-length nylons when we go on long hikes while in the military. No chafing, no blisters. Added bonus is leeches and ticks don't seem to bite through and hitch a free ride.

[@mikegoodwin2386]

That was the old-school liners from the eighties and earlier, before the modern liners got popular. Still work.

[@biker-dog-poppy]

i dehydrate my water, weighs nothing then just add some water to rehydrate .....

[@iconiazeta]

your sense of humor is dead as your sex life .

[@azazelRising72]

Have you tried freeze-drying it?

[@danielhawley6817]

@@iconiazeta - If your sense of humor is bathroom humor...then it's not developed enough to get the joke.

[@kenttheboomer721]

Video or it never happened.

[@brandonfoley7519]

@@iconiazeta have you ever heard the expression "look at the pot calling the kettle black" pots and kettles used to be made of cast iron which is black.

[@evolvep2747]

Because of your videos, I look like a pro in front of my family, friends and especially my kids.Thank you Sir!

[@binarydog]

Thanks Darwin! Do more of this. Greetings from Switzerland! And please put metric units on screen...

[@StephanieTautkus]

This video came RIGHT ON TIME!!! My Pocket Rocket finally gave up the ghost after about 20 years of service! I did buy the BRS and went from 3 oz to .8 oz! With my Foster's can set up it is nearly unbeatable with weight savings. Thanks.

[@Tgauchsin]

So I have bought and used several of your suggested items. Great stuff to start with. I am giving my opinion on each of your three videos on the stuff I bought from each video.... - outdoorsman sleeping pad is decent for the price. Little thin. Used it in 30* and did just fine. I did put a layer of reflectix insulation between my pad and the ground. - smart water bottles are my new favorite. Use my nalgenes for work but use 2 - 1L smart water bottles when hiking. I use my sawyer squeeze bag to fill each bottle and for a 3rd liter of storage if needed.

[@geritisdale-brock7247]

I have the Outdoorsman sleeping pad and love it. I actually got it on sale for around $27. I have only used it three times. Works great for tent camping. I think the lowest temp I used it at was around 40°

[@Michelleswank]

Thank Darwin!!! I am sooooo new and have needed to buy EVERYTHING.

[@kennethstarr5545]

Great vids! Keep up the great work! I'd like to add that I bought a Unigear sleeping pad. Thirty bucks. The R-value (1.5) isn't comparable and it's not as thick (2") but, it weighs 1.1 lbs and I carry a Thermarest Z lite sol. Very comfortable. 14 more ounces. The R-value for the Unigear mattress is 1.5 and the Thermarest is 2.6. It is equivalent and much cheaper to carry 14 ounces more. I got the Thermarest on sale at REI. It was $30 and $30 for the Unigear mattress. Too bad Amazon doesn't have the mattress in stock right now. The Xlite I would need is $199. With the other tips, I have used, that you have shared, I will carry 14 ounces more. If I truly want or need to go ultra-lite I would get a different pack and tent. Thanks again as I like your page and have shared with many other people whether they are through hiking or car camping. I like what you share the most because you use these products the most and post products that have failed and their replacements. You also are very genuine and very real but humble at the same time. I really like how you handle criticism.

[@Pedro28725]

One tip for your non US viewers: please put metric units on screen in the video. great stuff you're making!

[@jlt131]

especially when discussing water bottles - the US uses ounces for both weight and volume, which can be confusing!

[@bena3341]

Yea their system is ridiculous. Metric ftw.

[@scottposey2996]

Google it

[@samsepioli]

Yeah that would be great

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

I've just become accustomed to having the Google "oz to g" conversion window open alongside when I'm watching KZbin :)

[@boriscat1999]

that BRS stove combined with a titanium foil windscreen (0.5oz) really improves the boil time and therefor reduces the amount of canister fuel you're using. the foil pays for itself in fuel saved pretty quickly.

[@tangozulu]

I have been using one of those ultra light titanium stoves from China. Purchased on ebay for about 16 pounds almost 3 years ago now and it's still going strong and heats water super fast. Highly recommended.

[@LeonidasontheTrail]

Just to throw it out there, if you are a Massdrop user, they have the Klymit UL uninsulated pad 1.3R for $49.99 currently. It weighs 12.5 oz in the stuff sack. They also have the UL insulated 4.4R at 16.9 oz. Just something to check out. I have the 1.3R but haven't had it out yet.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Have never used Massdrop, but will have to check it out! Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin

[@FiraFlame]

Massdrop is great! I've gotten a lot of gear deals on there. Name brand top.

[@jamesvaughan3909]

Hi Darwin - I love your channel and have used the information you have provided to prepare for my hike on the Inca Trail this month. Thanks to you and your advice and recommendations I feel like I am fully equipped and ready to go. Keep up the great work.!

[@TrailToughTrailers]

I'm an old schooler... think Colin Fletcher generation who embrace Ray Jardine in the 80's. I have stood on the sideline of UL backpacking thinking... if its too lightweight it won't last and with great gear costing great amounts of money I don't want to change for the sake of change.... BUT.... I'm getting old-er and dumping weight is in my future. You did a GREAT review by first showing a good standard (Thermarest pad) and then showing a GREAT affordable option. So THANKS and keep doing reviews that way!!!

[@FiraFlame]

Hersh Johnson treat your gear right and it will last a long time. If it only lasts a few seasons, at least you weren't carrying super heavy gear on those trips :)

[@toddrollins1305]

I really appreciate your information on this subject!! I am new to ultralight hiking and have about halved my base weight but was not aware of some of the "budget items" out there that are almost equal to the high dollar stuff. Thanks a ton!

[@BlumpyDaddy]

I picked up the Outdoorsman UL pad a few months ago before seeing this video. Have used it s few times, both on the ground and on a cot. Have been impressed with it. Since winter camping isn’t my thing, the R value wasn’t a factor for me. I recommend it too.

[@stevex1681]

You're the man!! Thanks so much for sharing these items and your thoughts on them. I haven't been hiking for many years and wow has the gear changed!!!! I'm currently getting gear together to get hiking again but introducing my 14 year old son to it all. You've given me some awesome gear to check out!! Thank you!

[@blackoak4978]

Exactly the video I've been looking for. I'm not much of a true backpacker, but since I don't drive, I like to keep my gear light and backpackable for the trip(on the bus) to meet up with my friends for camping trips. I will probably pick up everything you mentioned, but since I'm Canadian I can't use your affiliate link. Thanks a ton for this video!

[@sanction7627]

You Sir, are one of the best presenters that I have seen on the interwebs. Great flow, good, solid information...Very professional product all around. Well done. Subscribed. Thanks!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks for the kind words Sanction762 & welcome to the channel! Hike On, Darwin

[@Seamus3051]

Thanks for the field research and the information. Many of us operate on a budget and can't absorb the cost of North Face, REI, etc your frugal mind set is a big positive for those of us without platinum AMEX cards..... Cheers.

[@Patbrock82]

Great stuff! I haven't tested all the stoves, but my Pocket Rocket has stood the test of time. Funny, I was just testing a smart water bottle on my Sawyer mini yesterday. Great combo. **important to note that the setup puts the bottle on the dirty end of the filter, so it is used as a dirty bottle and gets squeezed to force filtration. This will eventually take a toll on the bottle, but they are pretty durable. Happy Trails!

[@John_Ridley]

The Hydro Blu on Amazon right now claims 100,000 gallons. Appreciate the thoughtfulness that goes into these videos, thanks.

[@Arjomatic]

Came across this video while doing some spontaneous research for my camping setup, such wisdom! Thanks for the brilliant advice friend!

[@thedowntrodden1522]

if you get the smart water bottle with the drinking cap it can be used to back feed the mini squeeze filter to clean it

[@Trekblazer1911]

Exactly right! That's what I do

[@Eric-fx9xf]

I have the Etekcity stove. I've noticed that the flame is fairly uneven, and the boil time takes longer than what you stated about the BRS. I'm a novice hiker/bicyclist. I haven't tried any other stove yet. I think I'll give the BRS a try. If I don't care for it, I'm not out that much. Thanks for the review and suggestions Darwin. ✌️

[@huntercrosby8882]

Love that Petrified Forest sticker on your Nalgene! I used to work there and that region has a very special place in my heart.

[@martinaxe6390]

I've switched to playpus collapsible bottles. It may be heavier than the disposable bottle, but the ability to pack it flat when empty is great. It also makes a surprisingly good pillow at night when empty. Just inflate it with your lungs, and rest comfortably.

[@thevideostump46239]

Right on Darwin, my Nalgene's are mainly used for road trips! I use my Smartwater bottle for hiking.. Learned that from Syntax77...

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Nice!... Love me some Syntax77. He makes great videos! Hike On, Darwin

[@atypical_moto]

Hoobilly Indiana Don't forget to cut off the little safety seal ring. Way lighter lol.

[@Graestra]

I don't know if I'd trust using a disposable plastic bottle as a dedicated refillable one, especially in hot weather. They aren't designed to be used as one, and I'd rather not be drinking plastic particles.

[@chrisw3327]

Chlorine in tap water reacts with the plasticisers in standard water bottles and releases BPAs. Best not to use anything but a specialist BPA free bottle except in emergencies.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Your UL Gear on a Budget video series are AMAZING! I took your advice on trekking poles, cook pot and titanium spoon and I am SO HAPPY with the result. I have to admit, I haven't had a chance to test them out yet, but I have no reason to believe they won't stand up to the quality I expect from your recommendations! Thanks Darwin - and congratulations on completing the PCT ... I've been loving following along with you. If you're ever interested in hiking in New Zealand, head over to my channel and take a look! Thanks - Michelle (Long White Gypsy)

[@kodaexploring5176]

My sleeping pad of choice currently is the Klymit Static V2. It's the size of a 6 inch subway sandwhich and is super lightweight. The biggest pro though is it's the most comfortable sleeping pad I have ever slept on. You can also get them for $25 if you look in the right place. Usually though they run around $50.

[@kibashisiyoto6771]

I use 24 oz soda bottles for water. I carried 4 on the JMT (I drink a LOT of water) which was very useful for the final day where there is no water from Guitar Lake to Trail Camp. Cheap, easy to include a soda in your resupply bucket at MTR, and I mark the side with permanent marker with cup measurements so I can add just the right amount of water to my meals.

[@stephanieswainson4464]

I agree with you on the smart water bottles for day hikes but where I live (Alberta) it’s nice having the nalgene to fill with hot water to put inside your sleeping bag on cold nights :)

[@dennisneely]

Picked up the BRS as recommended. It’s a great stove. I even use it in my kitchen or patio when I’m missing being outdoors

[@anbu94]

I just purchased a Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite today to replace my outsoorsman lab pad. I find the outdoorsman very uncomfortable for a few reasons. One like mentioned gets chilly pretty easy, it is too thin for my liking, and the gaps between the air pockets allow your bony joints to be in contact with the ground. I am a side sleeper and my hip bone and side of my knee dig into the ground.

[@SQWIB]

Awesome Video Darwin, I had to laugh when you got to the snow peak lite max, I'm saying to myself, "C'mon Darwin that thing is heavy", then you got to the BRS 3000T. I love mine, here's a few things worth noting from my Blog Review; Simmering on this stove with a Titanium pot is quite easy without the need of aftermarket or DIY gear. The flame can be adjusted very low, almost to the point of a wick type burner. The flame burns clean and adjustments are fairly precise. The slotted head with the slots angled help with dispersing the flame outward and in a spiral pattern. The flame pattern is ideal for my Toaks Light 650ML Pot. The Toaks fits the pot supports nicely and is very sturdy, no slipping or sliding issues. The Head pattern of the burner reaches out covering most of the bottom of the pot but does not engulf the base of the Toaks 650. The weight of this paired with a full 100 gram fuel canister is 7.50 oz, less than half a pound, quite impressive. My pad is a Neo Air Xtherm Large at 20 oz. I'm gonna look into the Outdoorsman Lab UL pad for my daughter, just not sure 21" is wide enough, but its an awesome price. For hydration I use Smart water bottles and a sawyer mini. I also Bring Aquamira tablets in case of a filter failure. One of the Smart Water Bottles is a 25 oz bottle with a flip top lid, a hose is inserted inside to the bottom of the bottle and this sits on my shoulder strap so I can sip hands free, while hiking. The other 2 water bottles are the 33 oz Smart Water Bottles, one is for untreated and has the bottom of a soda bottle cut out and slides on the bottom, this is a scoop, very helpful in shallow water, the bottle is topped with a sawyer mini and small piece of the sawyer drinking straw. The other is for clean water if I decide to squeeze from the filter. I also use the tablets in the filter bottle, I know its overkill, but it gives me piece of mind. Loved your quilt video, surprised you didn't mention the weight saving of a comparable quilt to a mummy bag, I have the revelation 40 degree but I'm hoping to get it overstuffed to a twenty degree quilt.

[@lucasdeaver9192]

Hey Darwin. Love the quality and information of your videos. Could you do one on what food you bring, how much and how you prepare it? Maybe explaining how you've changed your approach over time. I know there are others on here explaining that but I'd really like to hear your thoughts. Just a suggestion.

[@JazzlitaBudgets]

Very useful, made a hike wishlist on amazon, practically had every product you talked about. Thanks man!

[@lynnchpin]

I use a gravity system with a Sawyer Squeeze too, but I'll be carrying a Sawyer Mini on my next hike. I also use a folding bucket to tote water between a source and site, a second would be better. Repurposing a bottled water bottle not only is lighter but is much easier to drink from while on the move because those widemouth Nalgenes have a tendency to slosh and spill on you, which isn't bad if it's hot outside, but can be annoying. A pair of Sanuks make for excellent lightweight footwear around camp, even the hike, depending on the terrain. They saved me when the hiking shoes I intended to use once made my pinky toe nails come off. Footwear is critical.

[@VidaOutside]

Great! Your vídeos always help to get better trekkings!!

[@dcaz9824]

Great video! I am planning an A.T. section hike next month and added the Outdoorsman Lab pad to my sleep system. Tried it out on a recent weekend trip and had the best night sleep! Thanks for the recommendation!

[@silviamartinez1047]

I got that little stove for my first backpacking trip (Trans Catalina Trail) and it was amazing. Worked well with the Coleman Butane/Propane fuel mix

[@vagabondigas]

One of the reasons I love my Nalgene is because it can double as either a muscle roller (which my legs love at the end of a day) or a bedwarmer (when filled with hot water). Disposable plastic bottles aren't sturdy enough for either job.

[@steviecooper8486]

Been putting off buying a water filter with all the other gear expenses taking president, but I did pick up one of those BSR stoves not long ago; it's only 25 grams compared to MSR Micro-Rocket, but haven't had the chance to field test it. In fact I've been leary of it. Glad to see its working for you in the initial tests. I digress. What I wanted to say was mucho thanks for the Hydro-Blu filter tip. Gonna look into that fer sure. Peace, brother! Thanks again!

[@cujobo]

Tip: Whilst searching for "Pocket Rocket" on the interwebs, be sure to include MSR; otherwise, your search results may vary... I think I hit a few NSFW websites. :S...

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

lol.... yeah, that one will get ya if your not carful! Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin

[@froman2022]

not safe for work

[@ChristineTdoesntexist]

Some people bring both Pocket Rockets. The trail is lonely some nights. Lol

[@karold79]

I've bought probably a dozen of the cheap chinese ones, other than having a buddy shroud one and melting the shit out of I haven't had one fail. They make great stocking stuffers for hiking buddies.

[@fromtheflightdeck252]

BRS better imho

[@SunnyWu]

You probably should bring 2 Sawyer Squeezes if you use that. I've used mine like 3 times on day hikes filtering clean mountain stream water and always back flushed it with tap water after I got home. Let it dry and left it in my attic over winter (here in California that never get down to freezing), next spring took it to Yosemite, could not get any water through it at all! I did not get why as I did some back flushing with air before my trip and it went through just fine. Saw a couple other Amazon reviews saying the same. I use the MSR TrailShot now.

[@Ureyeuh]

Just found this channel. I love the name, the editing, and the professionalism. Subb'd for future videos, and currently watching the old ones. I'm from Indiana too (S. Indiana. Pekin, IN)! I wonder if we ever lived close to one another!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks a lot man! I try.... We originally hail from Evansville, so you never know? Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin

[@sanshinron]

Yeha it's well made, but at the same time it has too much of a professional salesman trying to get amazon affiliate clicks vibe. All this holding the product, repeating the name slowly and clearly, accenting positive words like COM-FORT... It's too obvious and forced.

[@alexciano3170]

Uriah Graves I'm from Carmel, but I am nor a pussy and lobe camping

[@dudedud238]

I don't know if you get into this in your review of the stove. But i used the BRS in high wind (didnt bring a shield for it) and the wind was constantly blowing the flame towards one of the supports. Because of this it heated up the Titanium enough for it to become malleable and it bent out of shape making my pot of water spill. Just a thing to keep in mind when using it.

[@MrAussieJules]

Dudedud definitely use a windshield... also saves fuel.

[@fireworkszone]

Greetings from France. Please could you do some review about socks and especially the Darn Tough socks and I start to wear. Great job Darwin.

[@remmirath42]

Awesome review, thank you! Besides specific products or brands, I would love to see a general video about what pieces of equipment you should really spend some money on vs. where you can just get something cheap instead that will work just as well. (For example, when I worked on the AT I bought an expensive sleeping bag that kept me warm even when it got wet, but I drank from empty Coke bottles and used Ziploc bags to keep my dry and wet clothes separated instead of those fancy waterproof clothes bags.)

[@Speakers154]

Thanks to your excellent recommendation, I've just ordered the Outdoorsman Lab UL Sleeping Pad. It will be ideal for what I need in the Summer. I'm keen to get the weight down for my next big bicycle tour.

[@EarlyMist]

Wow, I've spent hundreds on water bladders, Nalgenes, specialist collapsible ultralight rubberised bottles and army surplus bottles etc over time. A while ago I was in the supermarket and picked up a few bottles similar to the smart water bottle you showed us and after a weekend out with them I was sold. Dirt cheap, better slim profile, fits my Sawyer mini and fully replaceable without the crying over lost dollars. Plus you can crush them down if you're done with them to save pack space. I wish I had discovered this sooner. I added it up and I would have saved over $200 trying to find the perfect solution when it was right under my nose on the supermarket shelf 😂😭.

[@alyssabeck6497]

this is so helpful! makes UL backpacking seem so much more accessible. thank you!

[@Radnally]

used the BRS for at least 10 trips. works great. very fuel efficient as well.

[@MissT61324]

I just bought 2 of the outdoorsman lab sleeping pads, and it is crazy comfortable! Thanks!

[@c3920]

Great job Darwin! Just used my sawyer on a nice three day hike in Colorado, and they are great. Good idea on the disposable water bottle. Nalgenes do get a bit clunky.

[@blechnik]

thanks for the reviews! the thing about the bottles: isnt the whole point of using (more heavy) durable bottles not to produce unnessessary waste like one would with the disposable bottles to held save the nature we enjoy when going outdoors?

[@PatricksBushcraft]

man you nailed it on this series of videos. That's the same stuff I would of found as a deal. Your frugality is much admired.

[@karmaclanton5544]

I used the BRS on a 3 day pack trip it worked out great!!! I love it!!😀

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Even though I've went "Stoveless" alot lately, I really dig this little stove! Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin

[@Brockdorf]

Have you done a video on how to store everything? Right now everything is getting stored for a long time, any recommendations? For example, can you keep a quilt in a bag for months?

[@whataboutredlorry]

Thanks Darwin, would be keen to see your advise and experience with trying out cheaper versions of L or UL sleeping bags, tent options, pack options.

[@Sarahopal]

REI garage sale! 😊❤ I got a really nice sleeping pad that was originally over $100 for $30 because someone returned it. Nothing wrong with it, they didn't like the way it pumped up. We scored a bunch of stuff through their garage sale.

[@deschutesmaple4520]

Suggestion for next episode: best bongs for backcountry camping: what are our options? Criterion could be portability; functionality; construction quality; and how good the toke is from each bong reviewed.

[@marcusshiffler2614]

I've found that the Hydroblu Versa Flow leaks when being used with a Smartwater bottle - the threads don't exactly match with the standard 28mm soda bottle threads used by other manufacturers. It screws on, but can't seal. This isn't so bad when you're filtering into it, because it relieves backpressure. It is a problem when filtering out of it and trying to use it like a Sawyer Squeeze; you'll get contaminated water everywhere. Does the knockoff Smartwater bottle have different threads? You might be able to fix it with a gasket from like a garden hose.

[@lanceflanagan]

I've recently come back from a hike camp and my pack was so heavy that i actually considered myself injured by the time i'd finished. I'm scrapping my gas stove for a folding twig burner. I'm also going carry less water vessels and rely on planning my route along source of water. I'm also considering switching from my tent to a hammock and tarp :/

[@FiraFlame]

Lance Flanagan I'd focus your main weight savings on your Big Four: Tent, pack, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. Get those to around eight lbs and you'll save a lot. Look into cat can alcohol stoves, and honestly, the more your pack can hold, the more you're likely to carry. Fifty to sixty liters in volume is the average I think.

[@countloco3283]

Go on Ebay for a titanium alcohol stove ! It's not a bad price, around 35 $, very UL, works very efficiently ! I made a little screen for my titanium alcohol stove that dips down in the middle so I can use solid fuel cubes also, then I have a carbon fiber fabric for a windscreen ! Good luck!!!

[@mikemaccoy]

I've never used a twig stove, but won't a couple of rocks do the same thing?

[@nicholask7347]

@@mikemaccoy not as efficient and if just using rocks that counts as having an open fire versus being a stove.

[@kirkcallaway4242]

See one of his recents videos. Enjoy your videos! You're one of the best out there. Keep them coming.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks Kirk! You keep Watching em' & I'll keep Making em'! Hike On, Darwin

[@MrUltralight55]

Some great information Darwin, the water system Id stay with Sawyer, peace of mind!! I’ve used a lot of the water carrying systems, the water bottle system from the grocery store is just a great idea, cheap and you can recycle and buy a fresh bottle as you said!! All the money I have spent on gear, looking for lighter, better gear over the years, just sitting in my gear box!!!

[@notquiteultralight1701]

One of the biggest issues with the whole thru-hiking craze is the presence of empty or mostly empty stove canisters at shelters or tent sites. I’ve probably carried out 10 or 12 canisters from AT shelter sites here in New England. And then guess what? You end up throwing away the canisters in the trash cuz no municipality recycling program will take them. I carry the solo stove lite wood burning stove with a Trangia backup and that’s perfect. The denatured alcohol container can be recycled after it’s been aired out as regular metal in your recycling program.

[@mike76rob]

Hey Darwin, another good video from yourself with yet more good info for all of us. I'm going to hike the Te Araroa in New Zealand this November and just with this video I think you have changed my mind on 2 items. I was going to go for the Sawyer but I think that HydroBlue looks great and is also so small it can pop in with the essentials in the hip belt pouch. I think I'll bag that BRS UL Stove too, my current one is very similar to the MSR one out there but with it's plastic case (which is handy for the steel flint too) it comes in at 139 grams, a huge difference there. I did want to mention my choice of sleeping mat though - Sea-to-Summit Ultralight Insulated - in a size small. Although it is a small and I am 5'11" (178cm) it is enough for me having been tested thoroughly on a 14 day hike in the Scottish Highlands and it comes in at only 436g with a drybag to pump it up as well (genius). It's r-rating is not bad either, a good option I think for going ultralight. Anyway, cheers and keep up the great videos.

[@jlt131]

A benefit of the nalgene bottles is during winter camping - you can boil snow/water, pour it directly into the bottle, and it will handle the heat. Makes a nice toasty hot water bottle for bedtime in sub-zero temperatures! (and then you have liquid water ready to go in the morning)

[@docchocobo]

The thing you have to watch out for with those tiny stoves is that a lot of them don't have enough Rackspace to accommodate the smaller cook sets. I have an MSR micro jet and I can't get the small Stanley nested cup cook set to stand up on it because the support blades don't come into the center far enough, whereas my cheap Coleman peak 1 mini stove with its three straight blades all the way to the center, can house pretty much any cookset I put on it. It seems a lot of the micro stoves have their burner blades angled inward with small serrations but they don't do well when you have a cook set with a semi rounded bottom. They'll grip hard-on to cook sets with sharp edges or more square corners, but when you need them for something small and rounded like that tiny cook set, they tend to fail miserably. Maybe I should do a video showing this... definitely choose your tiny stove wisely so that your pots will actually perch on them right I've never use the MSR pocket rocket, but I've seen it in lots of videos and it looks like it may have the same design flaw as the MSR micro jet. Until I get my hands on one and try it though, I'm not sure about it and I can't really say for sure

[@delphinelesterlost3285]

It's good to know there are some good budget options out there, the price of gear can add up...

[@mosshorn1966]

Nice! I'm not getting any smarter but have been using the SWB for years. Great bottle

[@nasanction]

lol, I must be on the cutting edge, I already use 3 of the 4 items. The stove is the only thing I do differently. I use a penny can alcohol stove I made my self. It only uses 1 ounce of alcohol to boil 2 cups of water with a little to spare. Thumbed you!

[@silvanigra]

Even if you use a filter, do use water purification tablets, too. The filter will filter out many small particles, but not all bacteria and other microorganisms, your only option is to kill them with purification tablets.

[@sara_387]

Exactly, viruses are the main issue with using a filter, at least the less expensive ones (Sawyer and Ketadyn). If you’re hiking a popular trail where human activity can contaminate the water source or rodents are a problem, I would also boil or chemically treat my water. Rodents can even spoil water tanks with their waste.

[@oakim4]

We're hiking the Bigfoot trail this summer, in northern CA. I'm thinking of using an xlite pad, but I'm afraid it's too fragile and perhaps too cold at high elevation (6K feet). What would you suggest? Thanks for a great channel.

[@GizmosBushEscapes]

Have been binge watching a few of your videos ..more great tips. i recently picked up an ultra light sleep pad to replace my old and completely busted up self inflator .anxious to try it out asap.i have a small 1 liter nalgene, i also carry 1 litre size smart water bottles, BUT i still like how quickly i can twist and drink from my nalgene bottle , being only 1 liter its pretty light and i have it easily accessible.

[@danielflaherty1661]

I know you keep looking for a light weight tent and I am going to suggest zpack’s Altaplex Tent. Just a thought. I am 6’4” and if you have a 58” hiking pole you will have plenty of room.

[@matyourin]

For colder climate I can recommend the Kovea Spider Stove, because it isnt fixed on top of the gas cartridge, so you can flip the cartridge and get gas out even on cold weather. Of course if it is really really cold, like below -5°C, you wont use gas anyway.

[@dcwurster813]

My brand new Sawyer Squeeze filter failed internally on day two of a weeklong hike and would not allow water to pass through it, leaking out the side of the filter. I have found the MSR Trailshot to be very reliable, easy to use, and because I trust it, I reduce water weight by carrying less water between refill locations. How do you light your stove...is there a piezo option on any of them?

[@RethinkEF]

I use a water bottle like yours at 9:03 but use duct tape to the outside to protect it from cracking, but not too much, and I like to think it helps insulate it as well.

[@AB-nv5ti]

Thank you for these thorough reviews. I ordered the little stove. Presently, I use a pocket rocket. I look forward to seeing how this one stacks up.

[@Mr.PetePrice]

Great video, thank you! How are you packing the smart water bottle? Are you using a smart tube to drink from it?

[@richardalexander5758]

Very helpful. I'm thinking for less than 1/4th the price the Outdoorsmand sleeping pad would be a better deal, and got a HydraBlue water filter on order. Thanks!

[@jamesbrowne6522]

Hi Darwin, Just an FYI on your CNOC water bag. CNOC is the Irish word (Gaelic) for Hill and it is pronounced “kinuck”.

[@pixotica]

Dollar store auto windshield reflector, are foam and foil, tuff, light, and like a buck. Ultralight tent, walmart kids ten sub 2 lbs, I am 6'2" and it was small, slept out in the snow, but for one person it was great, and like 16 bucks, and well made.

[@briancolson5179]

Great videos, Darwin. Just subscribed to your channel. I'm a father to two boys and hope to section hike the AT with them in the near future. I appreciate your reviews of budget friendly gear. Especially when I'll have to outfit 3 people for the trail.

[@JeepTherapy]

As you know not all water sources are ideal for some filters. Many filters will get all the way down to bacteria but won’t filter some of the dangerous viruses. Do you have a recommendation for viruses that I can research? I’ve looked into a few tablets and drops.

[@tomjohnson8548]

thanks for the video darwin, it helps to look for space savings quite a bit. i don't care as much about weight but the lighter the smaller and as of right now i am only able to hike a couple miles at a time with or without a pack. i am working on that. thanks for the info

[@dvoz9023]

Hell man, I saw this video earlier but didn't pay much attention to it. Now I definitely need to get my Bob less heavier, helps your knowledge a lot.

[@traviskopet349]

love my sawyer squeeze, I carry an evernew water bag and a smart water bottle with it. Endless supply of water while on the trials

[@zachherold8812]

How does the therapist do on the ground? do you recommend putting tyvek or some other footprint down under it? also with the filters do you have to use a steri pe, drops, or iodine after using it? thank you and awesome review!