Bushcraft Gear | Ex Royal Marine shows you How To Pack your Kit Bag for your first OVERNIGHTER.

[@lawrencefieselman3803]

I have the Sabre SF 45 pack with the two side pockets. It will carry a ton of gear. My problem is I can't carry a ton of gear anymore at my age (75) but I keep trying. I enjoy your videos. From a U.S. Marine to a Royal Marine, keep up the good work, brother.

[@Jarrosnshajahwh]

Semper fi

[@USMC6976]

I am 70. I need a ton of gear. I went to a Rush 100 Pack, the Rush Moab Sling Pack and the helikon Foxtrot MK2. I can carry all 3 at once. I removed the stiff form from the pack, i can let it sit on top of the helikon and let the sling bag hang on front or attach to the pack. Like the Host, I like to carry weight on my hip. I was a U. S. Marine. I do not use the roll mat. I use the folding mats, so I attach to the top. I put my tarp on the bottom of the Helikon, and my tent (if i am using) on the bottom of the pack. I live in Arkansas, USA and the humidity promises your tent/tarp will be wet in the morning. Even if my planned trip is only to be over night, i always take enough food to last 3 or 4 days.

[@jfilm7466]

We're all getting old. The mind is willing but the body. I can climb trees etc and carry stuff, but I can't go under a fence 🤣

[@ΚωνσταντίνοςΚανδύλας]

@@USMC6976 "Even if my planned trip is only to be over night, i always take enough food to last 3 or 4 days." This is a great advise. Thank you soldier.

[@mikenadanada7430]

@@jfilm7466 In the famous words by Mick Jagger ( ala Mother's little helper ) What a drag it is getting old lol.. Fact is none of us " old timers " are 18 anymore.. I feel ya brother , I pulled a rib muscle the other day by simply yawning lol.

[@jamesburns9975]

Ex RGJ here. I put the roll mat inside the main compartment loosely rolled. It adds shape to the pack and the plus point is you now have an insulated coolbag too. Also. I don't have my sleeping bag in a stuff sack, it goes inside my bivvibag and that goes inside the main compartment. Negates the need for an extra waterproof bag

[@CB19087]

I found it easier to do that with the bivvy and sleeping bag too

[@CragDawgs]

I like it so you put it vertically?

[@jamesburns9975]

@@CragDawgs vertically , loosely rolled inside pack

[@SgtVictory]

Good to see someone out there actually recommending to bring kit out in the woods, and isn't afraid of making it weigh a fair amount. This is very much like a Canadian military loadout, even for an over-nighter. Hygiene kit is important, most people just prefer to fester in their own dankness overnight. 5L of water is important, especially if you don't know what the on-ground water situation will be. IFAK too. You shouldn't pack any differently for 1 or 3 or 5 days, other than the number of socks and underwear you bring - And food, of course.

[@nacholibre1962]

Brother, no one carries 5 L of water. That's an extra 11 pounds! Carry one or maybe two litres and then prepare to boil or otherwise treat your water as you go. 41 years in the Brit/Canadian Army and a bushcraft and survival instrcutor.

[@SgtVictory]

@Albert Head everything depends on the permissiveness of your environment. 5L is not a lot in the grand scheme. And if you already carry 2L, you are debating an extra 6.6 pounds. You would carry that in ammo in a military setting. Not a big deal.

[@markbrumell4025]

I've got this great pack, did a lot of walking in Kerala, India for a month before Covid. For the roll mat, I keep mine under the pack for a good reason; if youre going down a mountain path or steep hillside and you slip, this roll mat will take most of the impact if you go down ass first and it does a pretty good job of preventing injury.

[@tomokazusuzuki]

Can you share how you strap the roll mat under the pack? The Sabre 45 I have does not have straps on the bottom and I don't see how I can add straps in a way that holds the roll mat. Would appreciate if you can share.

[@AdventurousOne247]

It may have already been said. But where I often hike, the undergrowth can be very very thick, woody and unforgiving. Having the sleeping mat on the outside is asking for a puncture, or leaving a trail of brightly coloured foam behind you. The backpack is far more resilient than my mat, and a small hole is of less consequence. So my mat usually goes in first, unrolled in a canoe bag as you called them. Unravelling the mat to fill the inside of the bag, and make a tube for the rest of my gear to go inside the mat. This method takes up a cm or two around the outside, and doesn’t leave any hard to fill holes by trying to pack cylinders beside each other. Cheers for all the videos that feed the wanderlust when I can’t get out there! :)

[@JJ-ef7lb]

Use the same 45l pack for a while now, including a 12 day hike in Chile. All my clothes for different weather and food for 12 days. Was given to me by an ex Army pal of mine! If something is good for the military then I'd say its better than those 'tactical' bags that people want now. Also bought the predator side pockets for a little more organisation, you can get a lot in those too! Always appreciate videos from ex servicemen, thanks

[@011001er]

Shelter and sleep system always goes in the reverse order that it needs to come out. So Quilt is last on so first in, mat, fly, shell, ground sheet. Always keep your coms and navigation on your persons at all times incase of emergency evac. We're able to go pretty true ultralight down here in Australia because it's a thousand degrees 95% of the year. Cheers.

[@desmo5514]

I'm wanting to get one of these Karrimors , but I want to get one in my hands before I lash out. Do you know anywhere here in Oz. Direct sport only seem to order import as required Cheers Neil

[@grumpyauldman]

Hiya Nick ... even after doing this stuff for years it's still good to see others' thoughts. Every day's a school day 😎

[@rogerhudson9732]

As I'm 75 next week a gave away my best pack to a young person who likes to roam the Bosnian mountains. It was my old Camp Trails 'Astral Cruiser' magnesium alloy packframe from the 1970s with a Royal Marine Arctic Bergan bag attached to it, a great load carrier.

[@wightoutdoors3738]

I use a self inflating pad. After excluding as much air as possible I form it into a tube. This is placed inside the main body of the rucksack as a liner. Next in is the sleeping bag and thermals(I use them as pj’s on cold nights). The rest is pretty much the same as you.

[@stefan3625]

I always use the german folding sleep mat, just slide it in against my back inside the bag

[@justindawson3428]

Another great video Nick. I live in the tropics of Australia so I pack two water bottles on my waste strap so I can get to them easy without moving my bag, I also have a bladder so without touching my bag I have 5ltrs accessible, sometimes that is not enough. Like others I also keep my tarp, hoochie or basha whatever you call it ready to deploy for protection from sun or rain. My next priority to access is water purification. My sleep system is a hammock so I do not carry a mat but the odd occasion I do it is a 3/4 matt that rolls down small and fits inside my pack. I like to use a few canoe bags to keep my pack tidy and organized also, they make good water bags when having to use millbank bag. I tend to make smaller bags to further organize my pack and have recently started lining them with orange material so if SHTF I can turn them inside out and use them as signaling aids. Anyway I have dribbled enough, I love your channel keep up the awesome work.

[@DN1987]

I had a friend (not a soldier but his dad was) he used to put the roll mat on the inside edge of the bag and put everything inside it! So the roll mat acted as a wall for the bag! Personally I think it's a great way to around finding a way to hang it!

[@OldNavajoTricks]

I do the same, it gives the pack shape and support, I have four rockets and two pathfinder bottle clones clones on top as a throwover rig, I just unclip it and thats a running rig in its own right.

[@JackkDevil]

It's truly the best way you can put the mat but quiet a pain when you want to pack it again especially if you are on the clock or you do not want to ruin a perfectly packed back

[@DN1987]

@JackDevil as a cadent doing an quick evac we grabbed 2hat we could and run... of the 4 groups of 12 kids. My group all that was left of the floor was a hexi burner and someone's torch.. wad difficult to see who was there and direction. Of all the other 3 groups.. they all left roll mats. Somo3n on my team said if your hands are free grab everything and what you can. And just something that stuck with me.. I get what ya saying but you can always carry it till you regroup and re pack lol

[@elgorrion52]

I knew an old guy who cycled around Europe a lot who did that. He also used a strong bin bag inside of that and stuffed his sleeping bag down in there without a stuffsack

[@stevej7875]

Awesome stuff again Nick, there really is nothing better than an ex marine showing how to pack a realistic, not UL backpacking overnight bag, "a place for everything and everything in its place" 👍🏕👏

[@Nomadicfieldcraft]

awesome old school packing of a bergen style rucksack, cheers from 🇨🇦 one soldier to another

[@ahuman5456]

FWIW I always pack my Bergen in "reverse order" (the things you need first at the top) so top of my pack will be a BASHA/Tarp for cover whilst setting the tent/hammock up, the next thing will be fire-lighting kit, then ground-mat and the doss bag is always the last thing out of the Bergen (and the first to be put in on packing up). One rocket pouch for food cooking utensils etc, the other has tools (Silky saw etc) and the hatchet behind the pouch. First aid kit on the top/front of the pack in the centre so it's easy to get to in emergency. If you think about it the order of kit going into the bag should set itself 😉 Loving the videos keep up the great work, be well and happy fella 👍

[@ahuman5456]

@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 FYI I use a Dutch Military Police Bergen (55 litre all YKK zips etc) with 2 rocket pouches -in Black so it doesn't look too "tacti-cool" -the pouches don't need a yoke to turn them into a daypack either, so better than the UK offerings 😛 I'd suggest that because of what they are designed for the extra weight of a military surplus pack is justified by the reliable, long service they are capable of, there can't be anything worse than having for example a shoulder strap pulling off because the pack has been built down to a certain price point rather than up to a specification 😉 Kit that is up to the job is absolutely essential 👍

[@synappticuser5669]

Getting old. I line the inside of my pack with my 3/4 length (original by the way) Karrimat (pollybag at the bottom) and when packed my sel-inflating mat is rolled and strapped on the side. Both go inside my bivvi sack. Other side of the pack are my rolled up windproof jkt and my skins. I've never used pockets. Top flap and inside flap same as yourself. Tent split component parts for easier packing but all near top and easily accessible. I use film canisters for salt etc. I don't have a water bag. I have 2 pouches on my waistbelt carrying water bottles L and R and one empty in the pack. Never used canoe bags always plastic bags. Carrywise I'm somewhere in between hips and shoulders. Like the idea of the tourniquet. Best Wishes, McIntyre.

[@nancyspnh3]

Everyone has their own preferences, and in the end, it's what works best for you. My packing style of the main part of the bag is more similar to Nick's, not bc its better, but bc it lends to most of the weight being at waist level which causes me the least fatigue

[@petezahrbock9931]

Thank you for your service!! I'm from a little town in Minnesota. I personally like the video you put out. Keep up the good work....

[@paulkinnear705]

The big message here is to think about it before you leave! Put things/items where YOU think YOU need them, then don’t be afraid to be fluid with your decisions, move things. The more your out there the easier this will become! Remember the five P’s!! Great vid/start point for those learning, which is most of us, every time I see someones kit I look to see how/why they have done something, most will tell you if you ask!

[@alouvoss]

Great little video. To limit my profile I would put my (karrimat… remember those?) sleep mat as a ‘liner’ inside my 65L Bergen. This mitigated against damaging kit if I took a tumble or needed to throw the pack around. (The width of the mat was roughly equal to the depth of the ‘bin’.) Like yourself I load up onto my right shoulder first, so the right strap is always kept at its final length (less fiddling about) and I max out the left arm so I can get into it easily and have added a paracord thumb loop through the end seam/fold of the arm strap (if that makes sense) to cinch it tight easily.

[@Gunn4u]

Very well done sir. 45 years of elk hunting and guiding had me doing this out of necessity. Some thing’s never change , but if they do its for the better. Great layout and video my friend

[@geographyinaction7814]

I haven't watched a new bushcraft KZbinr in over a year, so I'm very happy to have stumbled on this. My right leg went, trans-tibial on June 25th. I'm doing well, have a prosthetic, and I'm hoping to get back in the Canadian bush by next summer. I have the same pack, and I felt a longing I haven't had in nearly eight years, when I had to stop. Great video and thanks for the inspiration.

[@IngenieurAerospatia]

I think the Royal Marines and the old scouting associations were in cahoots when they wrote the manual! Of course, we didn't have framed backpacks or stuff sacks/canoe bags/dry sacks so we used local super market bags (remember them?). The organisation of the 'brain' of back was great! When hiking, being able to share the load of a tent with another person is great - I usually strapped these to the bottom or to one side so it wouldn't interfere with the access to the pack itself.

[@madgardener5820]

You know, I was thinking the self same thing. My roll mat migrated around my pack until it settled at the bottom. And of course my kit was stored in a variety of carrier bags all in a bin bag inside my pack.

[@barryconway]

Good video and solid advice. Even if you've not been doing much of this stuff, or maybe none of it at all, I think it makes huge sense to start out from the get-go by 'packing systematically' - food & cooking here, personal hygiene here, sleeping gear here, first aid *always here* - already I see a comment below talking about shelter: if you use a tarp, for example, shelter priority number one, arguably, so tarp accessible, here. Plenty to build upon from this basic, essential advice, and of course, tailored for your own kit your own circumstances, your own preferences. Good job, Mr. Hidden Valley.

[@earlelzy7243]

It is a very nice organized bag for you. I understand that, being a US Marine. I did my time from 82-88 in the 2nd MarDiv. The ALICE pac is what we used. The packs are a lot different these days.

[@simplefieldcraft]

Hi Nick. Here in Australia (Queensland) where it is mainly tropical or sub tropical I go with a very similar load. Just the doss bag is a Jungle one and my Basha is top flapped so it is the first thing up before setting the hammock up. Don't use a roll mat anymore but have Klymit hammock pad to go in the warbonnet blackbird hammock. Never used an axe more of a Parang man myself. Must say it is nice to watch a good youtube channel that hasn't gone all bushcraft celeb "buy my kit and you'll be able to survive" type. Plus you won me over by still keeping the Crusader mug alive. Source do a hydration hose system to turn a Nalgene plastic bottle into a hydration system. This has been a game changer for me as I have had bladders burst and all my water gone and kit wet.

[@goreblimey]

Absolutely love this channel. Went to bed at 2200. Woke up at 0100, couldn't sleep, 6 hours later and can't get enough. Awesome work 👏

[@kerrybay7995]

Great video. When it comes to sleeping pad placement, I tend to run it under the top flap of the pack. If I am using my lightweight bivy tent I will roll the pad around that and put it in the same position. I had also cut my pad down so it is just shoulder width and about two inches longer than my person. Tend to do tarp shelters though, so that leaves tons of extra room in my pack for really cinching it down snug and close to the body for comfort. I also don't carry more than a liter of water at a time; have multiple water treatment and filter systems that are very packable and lightweight (always water to be had around my area). Prost, from CT.

[@varus-fp1pz]

I'm a bit late to the party but on a number of trips to Hinchinbrook Island (tropical nth east Australia) I put the sleep pad INSIDE the pack but loosely so that all else is then packed inside it. This gives extra padding, moisture resistance, maintains pack form and is one less exterior item to get snagged. Love your videos!

[@mikebox]

I’m a former Army Ranger. We always try to carry everything inside the pack. Firstly because we parachuted in. Next there’s less chance of loosing stuff. You can open up the sleep pad slide it inside the main pack. Then pack inside the pad your kit. I today use an air mattress in my old age. I fold it up and carry it inside. I don’t carry the camelback. Don’t like them. But I always carry my water outside. I use a Munro for a day pack. But my main camping pack is a granite gear 60L pack. Your pack is the same size in volume with those outside pouches.

[@richardofoz2167]

Great video. Glad you finally mentioned weight distribution at the end. I've always carried the weight low and close to my back, which means sleeping bag and pad up top, with stove and other dense items either low and inside or on the outside in external pockets at waist height. This lowers my centre of gravity, making me more stable, and makes the weight more comfortable to carry. Hving weight up high makes you top heavy and untable, which you do not ant on exposed places or when crossing streams. When I was young and fit I could carry 30-35 kg up and over ranges, but I was small and that kind of weight was too much for comfort and safety. It's never good to be a hero and carry more weight than you're comfortable with, as being tired sets you up for injury or worse.

[@jonbridge8064]

I've usually packed mine in a similar manner. I've tended to mostly carry the roll at the bottom, as it's normally fitted easier there. Occasionally I had it vertically up one side. As I'm in Australia I tend to carry as much water as possible. Was thinking of your channel as I had a quick camping-style dinner of Spanish Chorizo and rice tonight!

[@IngenieurAerospatia]

I'm in Vic so in the colder months the ability to skimp on water is great. I can't imagine even hiking extended periods in the tropics (or even Sydney in the summer!).

[@Mat-kr1nf]

@@IngenieurAerospatia I’ve seen old “bushwhacking” photos from the early 1900s, they’d be carrying their bedroll on a strap over their shoulder, but unbelievably, carrying a bucket or tin of water (no lid- if they slip, the water’s gone). They must have been tough as old boots back then, carrying this pail of water, sometimes for days, through the bush!😂😨

[@danite620]

Simper Fi Marine . I to am 75 now. And yep I keep trying as well . In the late 80s into the 90s I am was with a Army National Guard Ranger company G Co. 143 Airborne Infantry. While there I had the good fortune and privilege to serve in Germany with a U k territorial unit (our sister unit ) I learned much from them. Great lads all..

[@almartin9500]

Semper Fi!!!! Yup, that’s Marine packing for sure!! I use a Tactical Tailor 3 Day Assault Pack for short hauls and an Afghan modified MALICE Mtn Ruck for longer ones. I pack pretty much the same way you do, except I’ve ditched the foam pads. All sleeping kit goes inside of the MALICE including the inflatable pad rolled up small as possible. When using the TT 3 Day, I have the sleep pad rolled and attached to the exterior bottom. I put my 3L bladder in the pocket before sleeping system. I hunt/camp and do some “work” in the Sierras of California, so sleep system can vary from a “Ranger Roll” in summer to a warmer bag in Fall/Spring. Work calls to remain “tactical” so everything remains earth tone.

[@alphabears6342]

Great video. When I pack, I usually use a white 3 mil contractor trash bag as my bag liner. Then goes my sleeping bag at the bottom of the ruck sack, MSR dromedary 4 liter bag all the way in the bag where the pouch is, extra clothes in a gallon size ziplock on the right side, food bag in the middle and my cook kit on the left. My cook kit includes a titanium pot, titanium cup, kupilka cup, stove, fuel canister and lighter. All of this is inside the pot. On top I have my tarp, plashpalatka and poncho. My tarp already has 550 installed. On the top pouch (claymore pouch) I keep a fire kit in a tin, #36 bank line, Victoria multitool, emergency blanket, map, compass, headlamp, extra batteries, bandana, torch, gorilla tape, thermal monocular, first aid kit, micro trauma kit and water purification and a roving blue I'm pen and some snacks. On the left side of the bag in the pouch I carry a titanium water bottle. On the other pouch, right side, I carry my knapsack, hat and gloves. On my body, I always have a full tang knife, a peanut lighter, compass, folded map, a survival kit.

[@tehsmalcom]

An aussie gonk mat is the most genius sleeping pad idea ive ever seen. If its colder, use a small blow up with the gonk mat under... it fits well behind an alice frame or inside a pack along the back.... US Marine 2007-2011

[@MegaSweets06]

Sir, Great vid! To answer your question, I use a 1990's ALICE system. I take my foam mat, insert it into the main pack and then unwind it so that it structures the bag into a cylinder. Then I fill it. Only problem is you need to remove everything to put it back in. Surely you've probably seen this before. Thanks

[@zavazadlo]

I used to carry my sleeping mat on base of backpack, like sideways, but than when i walk offroad between trees, it was super annoying when i catched branch or something with my sleeping mat. So i switched to vertical mount like you did at the end of the video. But now i carry small inflatable mat, which can fit in my backpack. Otherwise i pack pretty much same way as you do, just my tarp is on the top. I used to carry it at the bottom with my sleeping system, but found out it can be handy to have it ready for quick deploy, even when making shorter break. Thanks for all your content and advices, you are one of my two favourite bushcraft channels!

[@joshlittle3613]

Right now I’m just rolling with the US Army issued sleep mat strapped to the bottom of my mystery ranch ruck. I’m thinking of switching it out for a foam one. The foam one doesn’t compress as well or retain as much heat, but I’ve already had a few problems with punctures on my inflatable one. Where we are there’s a lot of thorns. Also being a mounted unit our rucks stay strapped to the side of a truck and can get beat up by trees. Having something sturdy seems like a better option. 20:51

[@nancygreggpasiecznik4673]

Thank you for a very helpful video, and your timing couldn't be better. I did a lot of camping in my youth, and when hiking was involved, just laid my clothing changes on top of my sleeping bag and rolled it up. I didn't have gear then as I do now. I am in western New York State, where first snow can be a foot or two as early as October, but temperatures and snowfall are unpredictable. I am planning on being away for four days and, being female, I want to add two complete changes of underthings and socks, one extra set of long base layer, an extra set of pants and shirt, a light sweater or pullover or light jacket, and a warm coat. I have my gear other than clothing laid out on the living room floor to put into a new Vanquest Markhor 45L backpack and was stumped about what to put where. I also can't imagine being able to fit everything into the backpack. You said your pack was 45L for an overnighter. Do you think I need a larger pack? I haven't used my pack yet and was considering returning it and purchasing a 50L or 60L capacity pack. Your opinion would be very helpful. When I was in the U.S. Army during the Cold War, we used web gear and, given my MOS as a JAG, I did not have an occasion to pack the rucksack.

[@chrisg1234fly]

When I grew up on dartmoor, it was sleeping bag at the bottom, tent on top, tent goes up first, unpack inside a dry tent. Then when I started playing soldiers, sleeping bag went into the bivy bag and sat on top inside, first thing out at sleeping time, but in those days on a tactical exercise, the sleeping bag was wrapped up in bin bags at the bottom and sleeping was done in a bivy bag....no poncho or anything in those days!!! Now I live in Southern Africa, I have a 4x4, roof tent, fridge freezer and all that goochy kit that overloads the truck and ruins fuel efficiency. But I think I roughed it enough when I was young to be foregiven a few luxuries!!! Nice video!!

[@caseysimpson1806]

I use a very similar organizational system. My pack is more of an alpine style. Sleeping pad- I don't trust the bungies, so it is straps for me. In the mountains of Western North Carolina, where trails can be overgrown, I carry the pad vertically to minimize hang ups. In the predominantly open mountain trails found in the west, I carry the pad strapped to the bottom. Also, a big fan of hand held light in addition to the headlamp. Older generation USMC infantry/reconnaissance- not carrying as much gear anymore but still getting out there.

[@juergenedgarmauriciooberfr2745]

Hey great video! I personally use the foldable sleeping pad from the german military! Thank you for your service and God bless you

[@christopherrix1809]

Cool video! I do most of my backpacking/camping in southeastern Idaho. To answer your question in the video I generally unroll my sleeping pad inside the main body of my pack so that it creates structure for the pack and I stuff everything in the middle. It seems to give my pack nice structure, protects the items inside from impact, and streamline’s the outside of my pack.

[@Adam-if3zd]

I did the same when I went to Israel with a 45 Litre pack. Works fine and acted like an internal frame

[@JoelAaargh]

I've watched this through a couple of times, but still can't see where you packed the selfie stick, ring light and book of inspirational instaquotes - presumably you have a custom leather holder on your belt for lightning fast access? More seriously, while two young kids means I don't get on many overnighters at the minute the approaches here transfer well to most outdoor situations - planning, organisation, accessibility, snacks at the top of every pocket! Cheers Nick & Team 👍

[@KorumEmrys]

Live in the Western/Southwestern U.S. You are fortunate to live in an area with lots of water. People don't usually carry enough water in desert areas here. Carry my pad on bottom of pack or top of pack with some packs. Also, agree with "Flanker Jack" as I tend to carry a larger pack than I may need for convenience and more thorough items, even on two to three days. Great Vid!!! Thank You!!! Enjoyed!!

[@swanee22]

Very well organized presentation. I like the Klymit Static V sleep pad -it's inflatable, stays inflated and shrinks up to about 7" x 10" in diameter.

[@GeorginaBowie]

I use an inflatable mat now which gets rolled up tight and placed at the bottom of my bag beside my sleeping bag. I keep my thermals and spare socks in with the sleeping bag in a dry bag so that getting ready to sleep is easy and so that it all stays dry. I can deal with damp everything but my sleeping things need to be dry. Thanks for the video, great content as always.

[@MikeJones-xw3te]

When I joined the army (RE's) in 1972, we were issued good old 37 pattern webbing, small and large pack with a cape. Wet and cold all the time. Then good old 58 pattern kit with poncho, which you could make a basha from, with the 58 pattern sleeping bag. Still got wet. No sleeping mats or bivi bags. That all said we still had a packing regime and enjoyed every minute of it. Always told by the old sweats where to put items for ease of access.

[@bengunns]

Yes mate i remember the 58 pattern webbing, the large pack that clipped onto the yolk and belt, and swung all over the place when you were on a tab. yes no mats then, just make a basher out of the Poncho remembering to tie the hood. i must be an old sweat, seems like yesterday. Great times though, still in touch with alot of guys but alot of guys have passed on as well.

[@00Cyclops00]

Hey! Army Infantryman here so take my advice how you might like! But, I know you addressed carrying the tarp how you'd like and others can do it how they'd like but you also asked for some advice and my bit would be the advice I got from one of my staff sergeants. Carry stuff in the outside pockets that you need access to quickly. Tarp, wet weather top (jacket) and bungie cords / 550 cord. Stuff that you need to use in a quick emplacement or because heavy rain had befallen you. Thanks for the awesome video and hope to see more!

[@00Cyclops00]

@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Absolutely! Thanks for the video and all the knowledge you definitely gave me some stuff to think about grabbing before I get into camping.

[@simonduncan7378]

Rollmat on the bottom, if I take one. Good profile, keeps the bag off a wet floor when you lean it against a tree (can wipe the rollmat later) and on a longer Bergen you can loosen and use as a seat while keeping your bag on. Take it less often now as prefer a hammock/underblanket sleep set.

[@huaweikh2593]

I like your pallet table. Tea Tree wet wipes are a fantastic addition.

[@SteffenBoserup]

Thank You for sharing. I like to keep my gloves attached to the belt, on the left side, under my jacket - The sleeping mat I prefer is the thick version of the foam type, and I used to have it under my backpack, but have since changed to carry it on the top. Doing it that way, I can sit down and rest/tie my shoelaces etc, without taking the bag off. I have to try attaching the mat, like You do. It will free space on the top of the back, for when I need to carry firewood or other heavy items... Please keep up the good work.

[@melyssa8585]

I make a bivy roll. Roll mat (self inflating air) with my sleeping bag(s) all inside the bivy. Sometimes, a tarp over the whole thing. Saves so much room inside the ruck too

[@mikenadanada7430]

I put my pack together pretty much the same way... If I'm using a roll mat I tend to strap it to the bottom of my pack , my inflatable mat however compresses down to almost nothing & lives inside my pack. Works for me

[@crispianbarlow5184]

I live in SE Asia & spend my time training Anti Poaching teams in the jungle. I use a "Jungle" hammock with built in mosquito net with a fleece sleeping bag liner & a shelter sheet over it. No roll mat or big sleeping bag. I also carry a 14in square of roll mat foam to stand on - putting on boots - or sit on, to avoid the soggy ground.

[@michaelagnew1515]

Excellent video! Love the kit, you have a super reliable setup! I've been doing backpacking for years in the Adirondack wilderness here in the northeast US - I've recently been really digging in to engineering my setup to balance between weight, capability, and comfort. So here are some big upgrades I've found in my time! I've been using an inflatable/packable bed pad, the Static V by Klymit for a few years now and it's killer. For me, I can even get a few hours of sleep on my side before I need to readjust. Deflation and packing is kind of tough but worth it for the pint beer sized package. Foldable chairs are pretty legit and around a kilo, I got one (Naturehike) a few months ago and it made hanging out at camp 10x better. Plus, if you're on the trail and want to hang out at a waterfall or something it pops together pretty quickly. I recently used this to stage a photo on the peak of Allen mountain where I kicked my feet up and cracked a beer. I called it my finest hour! I think the other major upgrade I found were compression sacks, Nelson Rigg makes them. My sleeping bag shrunk by about half in one of those, you can really crank down on the straps to hold it tight. I got another and put clothes in it to the same effect. My pack fully supplied comes in around 35lbs / 16 kilo, it's been super fun learning about different equipment and configuring my setup to fit my preference - thank you for sharing in detail your setup and rationale behind everything!

[@alquimiadearomasalquimiade1282]

Hello i.m on Portugal and i have some time to take out and i have all ways have my bag ready to go. Thanks for every thing you talk, teach and remember me....

[@grevlingen23]

I have a Norwegian military 35 liter patrol backpack that I use on trips of 2-3 overnight trips. Otherwise, my contents are relatively similar to what you have, but I have a sleeping bag that fits 3 seasons with Norwegian nature, so it is bigger than yours and thus I attach it to the top of the backpack. sleeping pads vary between air-filled or an I foam that I attach under the backpack. Your programs here are fun to watch and the way you present both yourself and what you do. I myself am also an outdoor life / bushcraft interested veteran so what you present falls right in my taste. Keep on 👍😎

[@demobbed688]

Regarding the roll mat, many years ago when I went through Infantry training we were taught to bungee our roll mats vertically to the outside of the bergen, offset to one side. The reason for this was so that if they were carried in a vehicle trailer they would interlock with each other and save space. After training however this went through the window and they were carried on top and secured by the top flap. Got to agree with your comment about carrying the weight on your waist, I'm very much the same and would probably opt to wear webbing with smaller pack if I could get away with it.

[@BoltonMaverickoutdoors]

If you can't top flap it it doesn't go

[@matthewhawn9070]

I’m looking at a belt system by LOF defence to go with my camelbak mother lode for that reason. A couple pouches and useful items on the belt and the weight is easier to manage.

[@charlesmckinney]

I'm 72 and from the US. I use a medium Alice pack. I suffer spinal stenosis and my legs are dieing. I pack light as I can while still taking what I need. For sleep that's just a "ranger roll" made up of a surplus poncho, a reflective blanket and a woobie.

[@theblackneon5396]

I've got a 125L framed pack carrier that I paid for at the end of service, because it became my best friend through several tours. It weighs in at 4.5kg, but it feels just like 4.5 kg no matter the amount you put in. I preffer having to carry some air in it than have a smaller pack with stuff on the outside.

[@PathofCultivation]

Great tip about using the raincover to avoid getting snagged on foliage.

[@DarkMetaOFFICIAL]

I like having my sleep and shelter system on my shoulders, and sleeping pad attached to the bottom, but the best (my favorite I mean) is having a large capacity bag with internal frame that you can stuff a pad into, making a tube, then all your stuff into that, closing up the entire bag.

[@evankeating3742]

Portugal here, I go hiking in the mountains with mates for maybe a week at a time. we always spread the weight, so in my bag ill typically have clothes down the bottom, a Sleeping bag in the middle, and pots and pans on top. Rightside I have personal hygiene, Left is snacks. The pouch in my lid is for lights and anything else I might need. 2 liters of water on me at all times. A foldable mat goes on the bottom just to avoid getting snagged in thorns or branches.

[@davewedgbury1583]

Racing spoon with paracord loop around your neck or attached to your smock. Never lose it then. Got a thin 3/4 length inflatable roll mat when in batus. Fits under the top flap so no damage and out the way. Great upload as normal 👌

[@carolinezipp4383]

Thank you! I came across your channel and I really like it. I like your no-nonsense approach to your rucksack. I especially like how you make much of your own items instead of buying everything new. Great video! Thanx! from Los Angels.

[@joshlittle3613]

I always just throw my tarp in the bottom. Since I don’t care if that gets to wet I can space it out in the bottom of the bag and it saves a ton of space. It can fill up the room around the dry bags that other things won’t fit into.

[@rodwhiteman3299]

The technique of choosing which side to choose to load each pouch is both simple and brilliant. I really like my water bottle in a waist pouch but not all pouches fit all rucksacks very well. My favourite is an old cylindrical one from Lowe Alpine which has a long belt loop to fit padded waist belts, and a little loop I use to secure it where I want it to hang.

[@RealisticSurvivor]

I usually put my cooking kit (stove+canister) inside my mess kit to free up some space. If it's cold outside I pull my clean wool socks over the canister to prevent the gas being too cold to cook with and reduce noise inside the pot. I have a less bulkier closed cell mat which i slide into my bag around its inside perimeter then I fill my bag. Otherwise good set up.

[@FlankerJackChannel]

I agree with having a slightly larger pack than you need and the ability to add and subtract on the outside as needed. I live in the American southwest now where we have very hot and dry Summers but also very cold Winters. The ability to add depending on the season is needed.

[@stummj99]

Thanks for sharing. I always love seeing other people's pack out and find tips that I can use. One thing I've often wondered is why don't the military use ultralight gear? Wouldn't the reduction in pack weight mean that they can cover more ground faster?

[@candicehealy1629]

@@stummj99 would ultralight gear not tear more easily? All l know lidl camping gear will rip and zips will break.... Or l just like to overpack.... But yeah...... Great video

[@stummj99]

@@candicehealy1629 no, ultra light is very strong (but expensive) e.g. hilleberg kerlon tent fabric. Some Lidl stuff is fantastic for camping at a campsite where you can carry it in your car.

[@candicehealy1629]

@@stummj99 thanks that's good to know I'll check out the extra light one's..... I don't mind buying expensive as long as l get use out of it and it holds up weight wise...... Thanks for the reply💞

[@stummj99]

@@candicehealy1629 you only really need that if you are going backpacking. But there's an excellent Facebook group called Wild Camping UK where there is a fantastic wealth of experience and knowledge with loads of people to help you.

[@brantoncridhe8088]

I like to use the Finnish sleep mats (they have a thick vinyl ground cloth attached, and the foam is covered in Hypalon so you don't slide off of it. Depending on how loaded my bergen is, I either put it under the floating lid, or underneath the main compartment. When I wore webbing I usually ended up with it across the back of the bergen, though I mounted it sideways (using the PALS webbing as the mounting points).

[@alimfuzzy]

From what I am seeing lots of backpackers are starting to do (but haven't tried) is stuffing the sleeping bag loose and not using the compression sack. It molds to the pack as it gets squished.

[@oliverbgreenwood]

I remember being taught this by an old soldier when I was in college. If you put your sleeping bag in your bivvy bag as if you were going to sleep in it then you can grab it by the foot and twirl as if you were going to whip someone with a towel. This squeezes all the air out of the sleeping bag and it conforms to the shape of your bergen. It was a much needed step after having to fit the bouncing bomb in your bergan.

[@887Rabbit]

Nice to see your pacing beads on the left shoulder strap. Nice and easy to get to.

[@garybrown4952]

I used to fit my mat inside the Bergen stood up then unroll while inside and fit kit inside the void

[@ridetwo]

when i used a normal roll mat i would put it on the inside of the bag and open it up so the mat is pushing against the inside of the rucksack, then put all my stuff inside the mat and bag. always worked well for me

[@jeffmccausland3569]

Another tremendous video. I will watch this again and re-visit how I pack my kit. I usually attach my roll mat on the outside of my pack.

[@jimmybrooks1059]

Nick, great vid mate. Im from Louisiana in America. We have hills hollers, pine forests, bayous, and swamps. Mosquitos, snakes, gators, and all kinds of creepy crawlys. When we go out we will carry some netting, bug repellent, some sulfur in a waterproof bottle for ticks, chiggers, and as a snake repellent if you use it as a smudge pot or sprinkle around camp( it burns their belly's and they hate the smell ). A machete, rope, definitely an extra pair of socks, undies, extra pants, over shirt, skull cap or hat, and a must is a tarp or plastic bags as a ground moisture barrier. We always carry a side arm or or rifle in swamps for dispatching snakes, hogs, and gators. Bears, bob cats, and coyotes are here but mostly won't bother a camp when you have a good fire and burn trash. Coons, Armadillos, and Opposums might hit camp but usually run away. All other gear is basically the same. 👍

[@johncotton7053]

Personally I use a folding z type sleep pad and strapped to the bottom. Being sort of square where a roll map is round helps keep the bag upright when stood. Great simple video though. Your knowledge is a bomb to the rest of us.

[@Brab82]

Thank you for your videos. My bother and dad was in the army and I appreciate what you do for veterans.

[@DaveCampfire]

From my military days, we used and I still, 40 years on, use heavy duty rubble bags, line the whole large compartment. The next thing is the sleeping bag already in the bivi bag and using a second rubble bag stuff this directly into the main sack, this way it fills up every bit of space in the bottom, having both already in stuff sacks there is a lot of dead space around them! The rest is very similar to you, a lot down to preference and what you’re doing or going.

[@CAPTDAVO33]

I’m the same as your set up Old man of the woods with sleeping system, i actually got that tip off the Norwegian marines whilst doing artic warfare training, i think someone else also mentioned a saw, priceless bit of kit imo 👍

[@DaveCampfire]

@@CAPTDAVO33, ex artic ware fare myself, also sleeping bag just slides out as well.👍👍👍

[@ajcoops5919]

I have a kelty eagle 128l backpack, bottom part for sleeping bag,bivvy etc then the main compartment had my tent,sleeping mat,spare clothes waterproofs etc,the pouches on the outside ,4 pouches carry my food,water,first aid pan/mug,Utensils and hood part will carry my gloves,hats,glasses,spare cordage,

[@Mohdock]

I'm mainly thinking back to the late 70's although I still camp. Alpine style sacks especially when scrambling or in mountanous terrain, Berghaus were the brand then and did various olive green backpacks. Rollmat position; never across the top it kept catching/knocking things, never tried across the bottom. I mainly attached down the back, this had the added advantage of making the pack stay upright when on the ground. There was a school of thought that suggested you place the roll mat inside your pack allowing it to unravel, then pack your stuff inside the roll mat, tried it once or twice, took up too much room. The roll mat was always placed under your tent or bivy bag, not inside. My main luxury item was an oblong plastic bucket which sat at the bottom of the pack, didn't weigh much but great for all sorts of things including a bird bath, laundry bowl, wash bowl etc. No pouches, so water bottle and brew kit in the top of the rucksack just under the lid (sigg bottle). First aid kit wooly hat etc in lid pouch.

[@Indicta1]

It seems we had the same sergeant 😉. You pack your bag just like I was taught in the French marines. Great video.

[@richardcanfield2741]

Great vid, much thanx. I carry a cushion (hot seat) attached to my bag. Smaller water proofin is the way to go! Have fun adventuring & thank you for Your service

[@Dr.D00p]

I managed to get the 75ltr KarrimorSF Odin pack, last year and my god, despite the 3Kg pack weight, its the most comfortable load carrier I have ever used. I can quite happily haul a 18-20Kg load all day with it, whilst lighter packs from the likes of Osprey have me suffering with shoulder & neck pain with 14-16Kg loads after a few hours. I basically get to carry extra, useful kit, for free!

[@crazy4milsurps]

I use the foam mat and a blow up. Foam protects the blow up and its a rather comfortable pair. I keep the blow up in my pack and the foam on the bottom outside which rests on my belt pouches gets me a couple extra hours before get all quasimodo and tap out for the day lol Keeping the foam roll between my pack and belt kit creates a suspension system and saves my back when I heavy step or jump down or whatever.

[@darriendastar3941]

Again, absolutely fascinating. It was a real education learning how the bag was packed - for such a simple action, a tremendous amount of logical and logistical thought was applied. The most action my backpack sees is Sunday afternoon shopping when there are only two rules: wine bottles first, eggs and yoghurt pots last. So it was really interesting seeing how a backpack *should* be used. Many thanks for the vid.

[@marine13447]

I tend carry my sleeping mat on the back end of my rucksack (same as you). My tier one equipment is on my belt (fire starting kit, paracord, signal mirror, flashlight, folding knife, ham radio), tier two is my IFAK with a tourniquet, secondary compass, Leatherman, broken down MRE in a butt pack, which leaves only one place for the sleeping mat since I don’t like it on the top of my pack. I enjoyed your video, great attention to detail and you offered very sound and useful information. Thank you, Marine.

[@tommyatkins2446]

Late to the party as it were.... Being pushing 50 I have two roll mats. One foam, attached to the bottom of my 120ltr issue bergan , as well as the air filled which fits inside. My packing style for wild camping in the Black Mountains (landowners permission) is almost identical to yourself, which for a former 'honking pongo' is very satisfying. 👍. I use my top pouch/pocket for my shelter. Weather can turn up there so poncho etc easy to hand.

[@oliverbgreenwood]

I have a 3/4 size inflatable roll mat that packs down to just a little bigger than a stuffed basha bag. It fits nicely next to my spare clothes in a drybag under my tarp. It's in that order so I can put up a tarp to get dry, roll mat to sleep on, spare clothes for a pillow then my sleeping bag to sleep in. I had a folding roll mat for my bergan and I larksfooted a bungee to the little webbing tab on my bergan and hooked the bungee around the roll mat to the two webbing loops on the rocket pouches, that kept it nicely in place.

[@philotown]

Sleeping pad, old school style - in me bum roll - 58 pattern webbing. Still works

[@pixiedixie3187]

Back in Spain when i was prcticing Alpine climbling on multiday trips, I put the roolmatt inside and arround the rucksack 60L main compartmen as a linner, did work well for us. Great channel< thanks a lot!

[@agold2125]

What a great idea. Thanks, P&D

[@makeaguitarnoise]

Just discovered your channel today. I think if things continue in the direction they appear to be (covid) your skills will be very much needed in the not too distant future. Subscribed.

[@chrisjones1798]

I always remember at CTCRM when packing a Bergan " kit to task " and " make sure everything is water tight , something always got wet but thank god for dry sacks , I swear by them things , still got mine from when I went to 45 Commando 👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@guitarhiker4449]

I'm using an inflatable sleeping mat at the moment but i do have a 3/4ths length closed cell foam mat off and on. Pretty thin one by outdoor vitals. Sometimes i put it under my inflatable mat for extra warmth. But i sometimes roll it up and place it near the bottom of my pack or just fold it up and place it inside my pack towards the back. Which gives your pack a little more rigidity and helps keep pokey items away from your back. The way you stuffed yours on the outside looked ok imo. You could cut a little off from it and it will pack smaller. But its all preference right. Good stuff man!

[@thenewearth5313]

I intuitively packed my bag virtually identical! 😆 ~>Only i put a small blow up mattress after my sleeping bag, and strap the tent to the bottom.

[@adamwells515]

Roll mat on the back as I like to leave some space for a 66 on the top. I’m a weight up high person. Just my preference and it works for me. Cheers. Good video.

[@nighthawkawandrewwilkinson37]

i walked the 3 peaks for help the hero's ,yes walked from Scotland to wales 515 miles my side pouches was set up as one for cooking and other shelter , then warm clothes at top ,so if i needed to get changes if i got soaked ,had first aid pouch strpped to back in tromba pouch then food and none essential stuff at bottom , but i also had webbing on as well

[@ianstewart2335]

As you have it, Nick! Your pack is certainly a better option than what we were issued with… ‘58 webbing and a LARGE PACK!!!! Whoever signed that nonsense off should have been…. well, you know! 🤣 Brilliant video! 👍🏻

[@LiquidityConfined]

These days I have an inflatable sleeping pad. Before I had a foam one. I'd stick it horizontally on top of the "sleeping bag compartment" of my bag. This would give the bag a bigger footprint on the ground and allow it to stand upright when I was taking a short break or making food. I found that really handy. Also, since it covered only the sleeping bag compartment I only needed to take it off when I needed to get to my sleeping gear which made sense.

[@douglascunningham9196]

Good advice👌