I found my perfect backpack for thru-hiking... | Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 First Look

When I saw the new Unbound Collection get released by Hyperlite Mountain Gear, I ran upstairs to my computer SO FAST to order the backpack for myself. I've been thinking a lot lately about what my dream thru-hiking backpack would look like.. and I think this is it!!
Introducing the Unbound 40L!
20% EVERYTHING AT HYPERLITE MOUNTAIN GEAR WITH THIS LINK!
👉🏼
(limited time)
THE UNBOUND COLLECTION:
Unbound 40 Backpack -
Unbound 2P Tent - bit.ly/3DO4WCs
Unbound 20 Degree Quilt - bit.ly/3zuacZ0
My Previous HMG Backpack - bit.ly/3DMlpXC
New Phone Pouch -
New Water Bottle Holder - bit.ly/3fnRcF2
TIKTOK: / nahamsha.hiker
INSTA: nahamsha.hiker
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DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description may be affiliate links. If you purchase a product with the links that I provide, I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you. Thank you for supporting my channel! (This video is not sponsored by Hyperlite Mountain Gear or Garage Grown Gear. All gear was purchased in full by me and my thoughts and review are my own opinions)
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[@Mushroom_Muncher]

Just bought this pack. I’ve been stirring on it since watching this video a week ago and decided to pull the trigger. I’m so excited!!!

[@PisgahGravelProject]

Couple take aways -awesome to see HMG think outside the box and make a new design -idk about the trash port..... Not sure I'd want crumbs, chocolate, or caramel smeared on my pack. I don't need a bear ripping into my vestibule to run off with my $400 pack bc it smelled chocolate, carmel or crumbs from a bar -glad to see companies start using the stretchy Lycra material on more packs. ULA has been using that material for a decade or more and it is the best mesh in my opinion and for what my needs are. Does look like a solid pack though. Wish it came in black.

[@MicheleGrieco92]

I was wondering which Hyperlite pack would meet my needs between the Junction and the Unbound, and now I know. Thank you for this super useful insight!

[@hikerbikerclutz8377]

Ahhhh, great! I've had the 3400 windrider for a few years and have been eyeballing the new unbound. Yep, now I'm definitely getting it. Thanks 🤘

[@ffstopP]

Excellent compare & contrast, Taylor. Helpful. Thanks.

[@lrachel43]

This would be the perfect pack for me if it came in black! Thanks for the honest review.

[@jamicrawford6729]

It does now

[@71cromag]

Hell Yeah! That's the pack I'm going to be using on the AT this year!

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

Awesome!

[@mako5708]

This is so like Atompacks Mo backpack :)

[@markrebeor1000]

I hope it works out well for you Taylor. I have a very old Windrider that has been an awesome pack. I am concerned about the fact that Hyperlite is now making their packs outside the US. There seems to be some quality control issues. Hiking Dancer who just finished her A.T. Thru Hike had problems with her new Windrider leaking. She actually had to use a pack cover. That’s just not how a Hyperlite pack should perform. Hyperlite had such a good thing going I hope they haven’t made a huge mistake outsourcing. If people can’t rely on their packs all that trust they built up all these years will vanish and so will the sales.

[@shawnsockaci]

I've had my 3400 windrider which is less than a year old out in heavy/moderate rain several times for hours at a time and it has performed pretty well, nothing leaks into the top but I have had an issue with stuff on the bottom getting slightly damp, I was sitting it down in some pretty wet areas though. I just wish the material was a little tougher, I would have gotten the black version which is probably even more waterproof.

[@PatrickMcGrady-hs1gq]

this is awesome! Glad you like the pack! send us any footage or photos of your adventures! HMG would love to highlight your badassery

[@mtadams2009]

Looks like a very nice pack. I retired last year and decided to go from light weight gear to UL. I was able to get my base weight down to about eight pounds and it’s truly been a game changer. I did the Long Trial in Vermont and the new gear made the trip truly wonderful. I am on the Zpack cool aid so most of my gear is theirs. Tents, pack, quilt, bear bag etc. I went with Zpacks over Hyper Lite because HL gear tend to be a bit heavier. I think this is a great time to be a backpacker because the gear is awesome and there are so many great brands. I did damage the netting on my Granite Gear pack catching on something hiking the Whites. I would prefer a sold material over the netting.I love slack packing and would do it more if I could. Enjoy that beautiful pack, it looks great.

[@boomnerd]

After seeing this video, I placed an order for a WEBO phone punch and today I got it. This is a perfect pouch I have been looking for. Thanks !

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

That's awesome!!

[@Burps___]

Thanks, Taylor. That looks a lot like my ULA Ohm 2.0. Great pack!

[@brewerm1718]

That pack looks great. I have the osprey eja, and I have to admit it's really not that comfortable. I did my first solo camping trip with it up to Ethan pond in 90+ degree weather and it was pretty hard on my back. Plus there are just so many straps! Anyway - great review and I hope I didn't weird you out too much when I said hello at the 5k! Lol

[@johnsandell4501]

Well presented and super informative. Keep them coming. Hike safe.

[@austindowning9212]

Someone was saying taking a 50 mile canoe ride on the AT means you aren't a thru hiker. That sounds crazy. If anything, that would just make the experience even better.

[@bobpalermo8793]

Hi Taylor, that was an excellent comprehensive review of your new backpack. Looks like a winner. Enjoy!

[@HburgMMAInstitute]

Very thorough review! Was considering the Junction and you answered all of my questions about that model as well. This one is really cool, too. My thoughts about the bottom pocket is that I could use it to stash valuables when I have no choice but to leave my belongings somewhere. Thanks so much for sharing!

[@jesinbeverly]

I've had an HMG Southwest 3400 for almost 6 years now.. It's an early one with small belt pockets but I still love it. Fits tight, moves with me and works in all seasons. In the summer, I roll it down. In winter, I overstuff. Not a lot of frills but I could use this thing as a PFD. That's how water tight it is. I find it funny that people are suggesting to go with smaller cottage companies.. It wasn't that long ago the HMG was very small. I'm somewhat envious of this new pack... but I have a system that works for me with the Southwest. Oh.. Trash pocket.. That's called.. Your pocket!

[@Y2J3469]

You talk about the Southwest, Junction and Windrider as being old in the sense that these models have been discontinued. Indeed, those forgoing packs have not been discontinued by HMG and are still being offered and I understand will for the foreseeable future.

[@jeffs6229]

I'm a ULA guy and this one looks more like a ULA pack more than other Hyper-Lite packs I've seen. I love the stretchy pockets! So many! Enjoy the pack, hard not to get excited for a trip with that thing! Thanks for sharing!

[@mattwilliams3104]

Really love this pack. Ironically it is very similar to some of the Atom packs out of the UK. Wonder if they used them as an influence as they have had the bottom stretch pocket and the stretchy back pocket as standard features for a while now. Definitely going to purchase this pack tho. Seems super easy to compress down for a less bulky day pack

[@AB-kh8ke]

@taylor - thanks for the review. There were hardly any out there and had my pack in the mail when I saw your video. .. calmed my nerves on the purchase. I really love it btw. Also, I had their unbound tent ordered, it’s pretty cool too. It’s got that zip and the vent which gives it an edge over the Zpacks Duplex. Do try it out.

[@ademonhunter1]

We're on GGG! Thanks for mentioning them! We're "Glacial Gear".

[@TXMEDRGR]

It looks great, and I hope you enjoy it in good health for many years to come. Thanks for sharing.

[@aaalllen]

Gratz! I saw your comment on their into video and wondered what you ordered.

[@takingawalkadventures]

nice review on your pack. I really like the features of the pack it looks awesome. looking forward to your all over review of your pack

[@susietopspin]

I like the look of it as well. Will definitely consider when my Gossamer Gear Mariposa (which I love), is retired. 😂. Happy trails. 🤘🏻🥾⛰️

[@vincentvega5686]

In the thumbnail pic, I thought you were holding a giant pint of Guinness lol Nice review of the pack. I really like the pouches on the bottom of the pack.

[@billtrulladventures5876]

Great review of the new Unbound .... but, dang it, I just got the Windrider 3400 for last year's hike, and it's still in great shape! Decisions!!!

[@bahamut458]

Neat. I don't need this at all, looking forward to purchasing.

[@pronetowander2153]

Nice review of the pack, Hope you have the best of luck with it.

[@tiger2too18]

Good review. Thanks. Are the seams on the outside with an added fabric strip ? Might this ave time and money in manufacturing- revamping SW 2400 / 3400. Modular hip belt avoids holes in hip pockets not being replaceable.

[@donnajess]

Thank you, Taylor! Nicely done 👏

[@ChristopherMarshburn]

I have the same water bottle carrier and have really liked it. With it I use a 700 ml size Smartwater bottle with the flip top and just filter water from 1 L bottle(s) it as needed that ride in the side pocket. I would also love to see a review of the Unbound tent. One big feature it has is a zipper closure on the fly that I always wish my Duplex had instead of those super awkward clips that are hard to close from inside the tent and never really work that well.

[@CharmingGecko]

I’m wry excited about the tent, but I’ll wait for the backpack in Black.

[@ohdonyboy]

CTUG water bottle pocket is so worth it

[@MikeycatOutdoors]

My initial thought about the new Unbound pack and tent are HMG is playing catchup to copy what competitors are doing...except the color white.

[@pungo147]

Good intro review. I've been considering the Unbound 40 for my 2023 PCT thru-hike. My concern is it uses a single curved stay versus two and I wonder how well it will carry heavier loads (35-40lbs). On the PCT there are some pretty long water carries which may require carrying four or more liters of water. I can see there's plenty of room in the side pockets but worry the single stay may be inadequate for efficient weight transfer. Let us know how well you like the Unbound 40 after you've put a few miles on it with a challenging load.

[@mtadams2009]

I use an Zpacks Arc Blast and love it but have thought about using my Granite Gear pack through the desert area because of the big water hauls. My Granite Gear just handles heavier loads better. I would then switch back to my Blast after the dry area is over. I love how light my complete Zpacks system is and it’s truly dialed in. I have heard about needing to carry up to eight liters of water which for me is very heavy and I know my Blast would not love that. Take care

[@pungo147]

@@mtadams2009 I used a Zpacks Arc Haul when I thru-hiked the AT. It was a good pack. The fiber stays and straps were a bit finicky at first, but I finally did get them dialed in pretty well. It was comfortable up to about 30lbs and I agree I don't think it would do well carrying 8 liters of water.

[@mtadams2009]

@@pungo147 So true. Even though my base weight is about 8 pounds through on 8 liters of water and the Arc Blast is getting out of its intended range. I generally carry under twenty pounds. I often hike with my dog Maggie and she does not love carrying a pack so I am stuck with her food and treats. It’s all good because she is an awesome trail companion. Take care and enjoy your hike. I plan on doing the Colorado Trail next year, we did the Long Trail this years, we both had a great time.

[@garyhog64]

Thanks for this awesome review. I have been looking at their packs, and this one looks amazing. Also,I have a Chicken Tramper water bottle pouch and love it!

[@lark518Photo]

It's a really cool pack pack, and I really like the bottom pocket, great idea.

[@AliciaintheMountains]

Okay I think I need to buy this pack and give it a shot! Great rundown of all the features! Also I have that same water bottle holder and used it on my attempt this year - it works really well!

[@jadenm]

Let us know what you think!

[@rangerinthewoods]

Looks a bit like the Atom pack Homemade Wanderlust just reviewed. Looking forward to your review. You two should get together and design the ultimate backpack.

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

I started my AT Thru hike attempt with my LiteAF pack which has the bottom pocket (like Pa’lante packs) and I fell in love with it! I switched to my HMG 2400 bc I needed more carry capability for food. I felt lost without my bottom pocket and hated not having it. I’m so glad to see HMG add this feature and continue to evolve as a company. This is much larger than what I would typically need but I’m sure tempted lol. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the pack in a future video. Thanks Taylor.

[@wio2189]

*thru hike attempt Nothing wrong with not finishing, been there myself but ya know, it wasn't a thru hike still.

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

@@wio2189 yes, you are correct. My attempt. I wasn’t implying that I completed. I was talking about what I started out my hike with.

[@ginadennis7399]

What size LiteAF did you have? Just curious because that's the next pack I want. I was looking at the 40L Curve Full Suspension.

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

@@ginadennis7399 I have the Curve 35. It is extremely comfortable for me but it doesn’t have a hip belt and is frameless so it gets uncomfortable around 20 lbs (to me).

[@ginadennis7399]

@@WALKITOFFDavidSmith Thanks!

[@guitarhiker4449]

Good review! What are your thoughts on what this pack can hold for a multiday trip with a mixture of lightweight gear and not so lightweight? Should i go with the 40 or the 55 liter version? I do like this design. I almost bought the junction 2400 a few years back but i went with the zerk 40. I did like the zerk but im finding 40 liter packs are nearly too small for even 2 to 3 day trips. I hike the adirondacks alot too and sometimes carry a bear cannister. Im not sure about switching to an ursack? Thanks! Hike on!💪❤️

[@nickhikesinthewoods6150]

I have the 2400 junction as well I like it but that un bound backpack is super badass they did a great job with it

[@dmn3773]

I love my Nero, but, I need a framed pack that can carry 30+ pounds. I thought the arc air from zpacks was that pack. Nope… it can go straight to hell! This might fit the ticket, thanks for the review.

[@leefitler4597]

Nice looking pack. I love supporting the cottage industries!

[@Dave_Outside]

Except that they make them in Mexico now and are being carried in stores like REI. Not so much a cottage industry anymore. And honestly its not very comfortable compared to my more traditional internal frame pack, not close. And also can't transfer the weight nearly as as well to your hips. I think some of these folks praising this type of pack simply haven't used a more traditional type of pack. Much too worried about 2-3 pounds of weight. It really doesn't make that much of a difference unless you are in really terrible shape or maybe a much older hiker.

[@leefitler4597]

@@Dave_Outside I meant the other accessories she got for the pack as well…

[@philamongthehills501]

I am looking for a new pack with better hip support than a framless I have used for a couple years and trying to decide between the 2400 Southwest or Unbound 40. My current frameless has 35L main body. The main reason I am looking is I need to carry a bear canister.

[@guitarhiker4449]

It seems like a nice pack. Ive been thinking about getting it. I see your hiking the AT right now putting it through its paces. What are your thoughts? My concern was i read where some folks say this pack sags a bit with anything over 25lbs? Some say its because it has only one frame stay or maybe because of the removable hip belt that the pack body and belt arent tied into each other correctly? I also worry about what they call barreling? Your pack does seem kinda barrel shaped once full. Is this an issue? Thanks and good luck on your thru hike of the AT!!

[@jadenm]

Thank you for the review. Even though Im not a thru hiker, I love your content. I am considering upgrading my heavy backpack to a hyperlite southwest but absolutely hate how i cant reach my smart water bottles while wearing the pack. The Unbound seems like it could solve this with the bottom stretch pouch. Are you able to take out and put back a smart water bottle using the bottom stretch pocket?

[@kaiserwilhelmnh932]

That bottom pouch snack holder thingy was on a line of packs back in the 90's. I can't recall the brand at the moment. Not sure how I feel about the trash stuffy hole. Seems like there's a chance you could lose your wrappers. I just bought one of the Chicken Tramper bottle holders too. Seems well made. Let us know how it works out. Got any winter hikes planned?

[@kim75559]

I am wondering whether the button pocket would be torn easily , making 150-denier at the button doesn’t mean that much

[@kudinmuda5912]

Great video.prctical design, looking forward to own ones.

[@nicoladymock5178]

Awesome video, are you selling your old Hyperlite backpack? Cheers

[@theoutdoordogandhikinggirl]

For me it is to small unfortunately, because I have to take doggear as well but I also thought straight away that it looked like an awesome pack.

[@joel.wuestehube]

Nice to see finally something new from HMG. But they basically copied all the features Atompacks had for years

[@tomlucas4788]

Taylor, I know you are using this now on your AT thru hike, how does this carry with the plastic back and one aluminum stay VS two aluminum stays on the other models?

[@Dante07cid]

I just bought the Durston Kakwa 40 or I may have considered this. Kakwa has more capcity but I do prefer the stretchy front pouch and the bottom pocket which the Kakwa doesn’t have. Also like the larger side pocket openings. But I like the Kakwa so far and the $120 savings. Thanks for the review.

[@renanleite561]

Awesome review! Quick question, do you know if they have stores here in Europe? I’d love try this one

[@thelaC100]

Nice , Xmas is around the corner .

[@strongertogetherdj]

I want this pack but do I "need" this pack..that is the question! I really just need to get on trail (AT in '23) so I stop buying new gear! LOL I'm seriously debating switching though from my GG Crown 2!

[@chrissaunders8284]

Great vid but when you said big news...I was think Little Nahamsha. Your review is very thoughtful and well done. Be careful which snacks you put in there. Your Gushers might get, well, gushed.

[@susancarey2388]

I have the Hyperlite Southwest 4400 70 liter pack. I love the pack but my shoulders don't, No load lifters . Does the Unbound series have lifters? Have you had any shoulder issues?

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

There's no load lifters but I haven't experienced shoulder pain with HMG packs

[@hikebot]

You had me Until the extra pouches.

[@lauriluepke4620]

Taylor have you had an opportunity to try out this pack yet? I am so eager to hear how you like it!

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

I've used it on a handful of Day hikes so far and it's been great!

[@lauriluepke4620]

@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker would you suggest a frameless pack for the PCT? How comfortable do you think it would be?

[@dakotaescher1]

Granite Gear (2lb pack): reasonably priced, especially when found on sale. It is lite, but not too lite. Why? It carries better when you need long water and food loads. Let alone with all the people carrying film equip. and drones, etc.

[@Wondering_Fireball]

Lite AF has done your pack for years.

[@jeromebullard6123]

Had this. Super uncomfortable compared to my mystery ranch Bridger 65. Went back to the Bridger and not looking back. 28 pound base weight, but lots of luxuries. Feels like I’m carrying ten pounds. I am however 6’ 3” 220lbs. Probably too much for a petite person. Which is the target market audience for hyper lite gear. Little people, little gear. I get it.

[@jamicrawford6729]

6'2" and 215 pounds and their packs fit me perfectly. I see plenty of people over 6' and over 200 pounds using their packs without issue. It's ok to say you just didn't like the pack you had

[@jeromebullard6123]

@@jamicrawford6729 it’s just that it’s much less comfortable for negligible weight savings. It also costs just as much, so I don’t understand the hype.

[@jamicrawford6729]

@@jeromebullard6123 comfort is probably one of the most subjective things on earth. I feel the same exact way you about this pack concerning traditional backpacks, to me they suck because they're uncomfortable and bulky and saggy. That's my personal opinion of traditional packs, but I know countless people love them and I don't knock them for others or put my subjective feelings against their packs, as it's like actually backpacking itself, do what's right for you and let me do what's right for me :)

[@frolege1]

If I ever going on a thru hike, I will buy one of those bad boys.

[@Pasequale100]

Isn t it anoying that the white color turn fast into dirty color? What can we do against it? It is misfortunately the only deal breaker at the moment. The black one isn t an option for me because it is heavier

[@david_W5QDF]

Velcro has a tendency to quit gripping so I would worry about the waist belt not holding up in the future

[@ChristopherMarshburn]

That’s that same way that ULA hipbelts attach. It was never an issue with my Circuit. If it’s like the ULA the opening allows you to fine tune the torso length of your pack a bit.

[@vincentleuga8135]

Thank you very much for this review ! Do you know if the black straps on both side used to maintain the rolltop closed can be removed ?

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

Yes, they can easily be removed

[@vincentleuga8135]

@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker Thank you !

[@bird.1980]

I like the idea of the bottom pocket but not sure the material would hold up over time.

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

we'll find out!

[@notyouraccount9742]

Just finished a thru hike of the AT with a pack with a bottom pocket. It has no holes.

[@youtubesean]

Seriously, that looks larger than 40 liters. Keep doing it your way Taylor.

[@hallibear008]

Hi great video! Where did you get your shirt?

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

Melanzana in Leadville, CO

[@jetco5906]

What happened to the Unbound discount link?

[@lakorai2]

You didnt check out the Durston Kakwa?

[@jetco5906]

Has it been water proof? My 2400 leaks really bad.

[@papertiger795]

I can't find anything about whether there will be different hip belt sizes available, since they're now removable... Were there any options for that during the ordering process?

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

No there weren't different options when j ordered

[@papertiger795]

@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker bummer. This was so close to perfection. But thanks for the info!

[@dannyfox1449]

What do you think about packs from gg and zpack? 🙂 thanks

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

I used a zpacks pack that didn't hold up well on my thru-hike. Never tried GG before

[@trishnenes]

How do you like the new phone holder vs the old one?

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

I like it more. Seems a little bigger and more water proof

[@bettyjorodgers8552]

Thank you

[@rayklahne7117]

Seems like a knock-off of Atom packs, but heavier.

[@misscandy84]

My thought in summer how do you all carry anytging on your back ? I be sweeten so much

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

Haha I guess I just got used to hiking with a sweaty back. And I'll lay out my clothes and dry them in the sun on breaks

[@misscandy84]

@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker well your awedom anyways love your videos

[@maurolimaok]

Nice video.

[@Larry3043]

Looks just like a ULA Ohm

[@rainbowhiker]

Super!!!

[@calistadamanta8466]

which one better this or osprey atmos

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

Idk. I've never used the osprey atmos

[@maxnbitsy]

You bought this, or they sent it to you in exchange for a review? Your review will be much more impactful if you’ve actually used it.

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

I bought it and it's not a review video, it's just a first-look and my initial thought

[@maxnbitsy]

@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker Thanks! Looking forward to a more thorough review later as I’m a ULA fan and a little skeptical about HMG support…

[@micktheweld]

How water resistant is the pack?

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

My old HMG never got water inside it. But I haven't tested this new pack yet

[@edmolash3401]

No load lifters is a major omission.

[@MomWentBackpacking]

Still no load lifters

[@oak664]

I would be afraid the trash stash would smell like food and mice would chew at it

[@stevenwarner7348]

Ncie to "hear from you" ~. errr ~ so to speak on KZbin. Since the "A T" Hike I've "transcribed" yr. "nahampsha" to all kinds of references. I hope that is OK. Just saying. When I post on You Tube I often say that I'm from "Nahampsha". Errr yea from the "Circle" ~~~ here in Epsom. But yea. Nahampsha. Yea. Thanks for the pack review. Just great!

[@PedroNord]

🦋

[@codyhikes4054]

I WANT 😍

[@leedanielson7452]

Hyperlite should slip you a few bills…😊💰💰💰 In my opinion you would make a awesome endorser With your good looks, excellent clear voice, charisma and wonderful personality…No I’m not trying to kiss up.😂

[@frolege1]

Sounds like they probably did

[@leedanielson7452]

@@frolege1 🤣

[@TaylortheNahamshaHiker]

@@frolege1 I've never talked to HMG before

[@frolege1]

@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker oh ok ..

[@robopecha]

i always said the hmg is the only goodlooking one out of all the ul packs. but i wished it had a stretchy pocket and load-lifters. now it has the stretchy pocket. i also like the other new things. but now it looks like crap. it looks like all the other ul packs and has lost its style. really disappointing. and still no load-lifters!

[@traditionalbowhunter5862]

like....oooh my god!! lol.