Most Underrated Pieces of Backpacking Equipment: Inexpensive Gear That Makes a Difference

[@MGA_83]

A couple birthday cake candles. It'll help conserve fuel when trying to light stubborn fires. Each lasts 20-30 minutes

[@granjitsingh]

That's a fantastic idea, thanks! 😁👍

[@larryfolloway6335]

If you get the trick candles that you can’t blow out they work even better. I’ve carried them for years and have been really impressed with how they work.

[@mariastevens6406]

@@larryfolloway6335 stealing that idea

[@davidcarothers3311]

Yep. Especially the "trick" candles that re-light when you blow 'em out...

[@tehcei]

Wow this is such a good idea!

[@shanenevius4890]

As a PNW hiker, a backpacking umbrella has become my new best friend! Keeps me dry on the trail while still letting me stay cool. My rain jacket is great for when I’m sitting around camp, but I get too overheated hiking with it on. The umbrella is a perfect solution, especially paired with a stretchy loop to pop on the shoulder and keep it attached to me handsfree.

[@mj99875]

Binoculars and a folding chair. There are many reasons to go hiking but one of them is to watch and experience the scenery and be in the environment. Sometimes I want to kick back and relax with these and to me these are as essential as a sleeping bag.

[@robuncorked]

Regarding trekking poles, one other benefit I find is that it forces me to maintain proper posture, especially when I get tired going up hills. Where I used to start hunching over on climbs, even resting my hands on my knees, with trekking poles I stay upright and use the poles for assistance instead. It has dramatically helped me take that pressure of my back.

[@natlovell122]

I agree! Trekking poles have been a major game changer for me. I am trying to hike as long as I possibly can in life so anything that takes impact of my joints and keeps my posture solid is always a plus. They also help with balance and core muscle engagement.

[@duhseanymon6560]

I used to hate on trekking poles too and recently switched. I'm tall with lengthy length and it drastically takes pressure off of my knees, especially when going downhill.

[@stephanmeyn]

two items I'd like to add: 1. Sea to Summit Kitchen Sink. It comes with a tiny pouch, so t takes up literally no space and the pouch comes with a belt loop. Ideal if you come to a stream and you want to get water out quick. Also great if you want to wash away from a stream so as to not have the washing water pollute the stream. 2. a small sewing kit. Basically a small pouch with 6 sewing needles and thread. Other than duct tape, there is no more versatile repair kit around. I had a seam give on one of my boots on day 2. I spent an hour, slowly building a repair seam. They held until the end of the trek. I have to add on trekking poles. At age 66, my reflexes aren't what they used to be. The poles give you that little bit of extra stability that prevents you from going over when the ground is suddenly not what you thought it was.

[@scottroach2418]

One important note regarding the stove windscreen. If you use a canister stove that attaches directly on top of the canister there is an explosion risk if the screen is too close, thus reflecting the heat back at the canister. Better to keep one side open and keep it far enough away from the stove to prevent canister overheating. The video shows his stove has a remote canister away from the windscreen which is good.

[@carmenmartinez2882]

On the pocket stove like MSR I just use a windscreen that I made out of a beer can, super simple and it attaches to most small cups or little pots like the Stanley, wiggle it attached right where the handle meets the pot, covers the wind pretty good from the flame but leaves most of the canister and front exposed so it won’t run the risk of getting too hot. Just cut top and bottom of can and cut the middle to open up, it really works for me and the beer tastes great. When done, roll it up and stick it inside the Stanley.

[@Melanie-Shea]

Just a tip, compress the compression sack by kneeling on it with your knee so that the straps are not under tension. It’s a lot easier / compresses more. But it is also a good idea because a lot of compression straps will not stand up to the way you were using it for very long.

[@machbaby]

Thanks. How the simple things often elude me...#alwayslearning

[@mmozell]

@@machbaby I have a slightly larger, waterproof compression sack that, simply, after I carefully tuck the top of the sack within the cover, I sit on it! Then, once I'm centered, I pull the opposite draws up toward me until the entirety is tightly bundled into a little ball. Easy peasy! ☺☺

[@machbaby]

@@mmozell Even I can do this :)

[@ramault]

I quit using compression bag for my sleeping bag. Had always some issues with fitting this small, hard, sometimes odd shaped ball in my pack. When in a drybag it fits a lot better and I can fit other items better around it. Then I tigthen (compress) my backpack. Works better for me.

[@jessicab9271]

I never see these mentioned in essential gear, but there are two things I never go backpacking without. First is a wilderness first aid kit, with a few doses of over the counter meds thrown in. Dark Angel Medical makes a really great and very compact trauma kit that is perfect for backcountry. Second is a PLB (personal locator beacon). Both are very small and light but could potentially save you or someone else on the trail in an emergency.

[@KO47893]

My backpacking chair makes my list of essential gear. The extra weight is well worth having something comfortable to sit on at camp.

[@thumperthumper5322]

For me I would add a shamogh. I never knew hoe useful it was until I got one and started using it. I was amazed that every time I walk out the door that shamogh has to be with me. Fantastic in the winter and the hot summer. Love my shamogh.

[@NotALizardPerson81]

To me the trekking poles are the difference between my knee being useless after the first day and not having any issues at all no matter how much distance and elevation I cover.

[@visnuexe]

I would add an emergency help item or two: a whistle for directing or broadcasting you need help, especially if soloing so help can locate you. If you are immobilized at least people might find you. Wear that on you always. Are you in densely wooded or rocky terrain? A helicopter or drone can possibly find you if you have an emergency orange blanket/tarp you can find many uses for like making a chair from a tripod rig to putting your gear and shoes out of the rain, to using as a wind break. It's added weight that may save your life!

[@arthurrsaker8893]

That's a really useful way to use an emergency bivi when tent space is tight. Great tip, thanks for sharing buddy. A two berth tent often has no space for anything else when sleep mats are in place. Could keep the stove and pans etc under cover too and wet boots won't get any wetter. That's been one of those "why didn't I think of that moments ! "

[@larryfolloway6335]

I’ve watched lots of backpacking videos that talk about socks. I’ve never seen anyone bring up under armour but they have the best synthetic socks I’ve tried. They’re fitted with a right and left sock. They really help with foot fatigue and I’ve never had a blister.

[@BackpackingTV]

Interesting. Thanks for the tip! I’ll try ‘em out.

[@spuriouseffect]

I picked up a showerhead years ago that goes on my platypus. Set it in the sun and you have a warm shower. 3 pairs of Darn Tough socks, gaiters, and an umbrella are my comfort items. I don't like cold, wet feet, or hiking with my rain jacket cinched up around my face.

[@bobbymcdonald4365]

a buff is multi purpose, an absolute must to pack or carry. nice vid by the way.

[@BackpackingTV]

Buffs are very handy!

[@mysterylovescompany2657]

Oh, & if you don't have a compression sack, dry bags are another great way to pack your bedding smaller than its stuff sack allows; the roll-top gives you a lot of power for how compressed you want it, the shape fits better into your pack as it will mold around other items better than the ss would, & the only thing to worry about is - as w. a compression sack - just making sure you don't pack it down overtight & damage the down. Obvious bonus; your precious bag/quilt is better protected from that mortal enemy of all down-item -users - moisture. :-)

[@dirigodave7801]

Hike the white mountains in New England…trekking poles are an absolute must! Especially in winter!

[@gerardogarcia-trio3572]

Great advice, I agree on everything. I was converted to trekking poles too. The importance of a windshield is very underestimated, you can waste a bottle of fuel trying to boil something without it. And socks... normally the problems with feet are caused by improper socks.

[@valdius85]

Five finger liner socks. Then wool sock over that. That’s a great way :)

[@captdoug]

I'm a Grand Canyon hiker and trekking poles are an essential piece of equipment. After miles and miles of going down your knees can use a little bit of help.

[@BackpackingTV]

I feel like trekking poles were made specifically for the Grand Canyon.

[@xaderalert]

"After miles and miles of going down, your knees can use a little bit of help" That's what she said...

[@stephenhackney5367]

Regarding trekking poles. Several years ago I cut two stalks of bamboo, let them dry, sanded off the roughness, and glued rubber cane tips on both ends. They are super light, about 300 g. Because they are 6 ft, you can easily change the point at which you grip them. With the tips at both ends, you can switch ends if one tears. However, they do not break into shorter length - at least remaining useable.

[@dw5523]

Darn Tough hiking socks are the cat's pajamas. Made in Vermont and carry a lifetime warranty, which I've never had to use - so it may suck, but nevertheless, great socks.

[@mysterylovescompany2657]

Unadvertised advantage to the StS Water Cell design, over narrower or harder designs; in a pinch, you can use it as a pillow.

[@Baasicstuff]

I have carbon fiber trekking poles I will be picking up some aluminum ones for peaks and rocky areas. Wind is the biggest reason, Carbon Fiber poles will blow all over in 20 mph wind tripping you at the wrong time, it happened once, to me and accuracy is effected when wind grabs your pole, the slightly heavier aluminum seems to not be influenced by the wind as much. I will see

[@arthurrsaker8893]

Interesting.

[@Baasicstuff]

@@arthurrsaker8893 yea my buddy picked up some Black Dimond Aluminum ones cause thats all they had left. They performed much better in the area we found our selves in, windy peaks, rock fields, but hands down I will always grab my TAC9ers if just doing valleys and mountain sides.

[@BackpackingTV]

Interesting. That’s a curious point and I honestly haven’t thought of that before. But I’ve never noticed that as an issue.

[@Baasicstuff]

@@BackpackingTV Weigh is important, cause it all adds up Aluminum/Carbon, Synthetic/Down, Rip stop/Dyneema. In this case though Im looking at picking up some aluminum ones for the more exposed, rocky, and windy trails.

[@CharlesBlank]

I bought carbon fiber with cork handle trekking poles from my local costco for $30. The brand is cascade mountain. I think they go for around $60 on Amazon.

[@BackpackingTV]

Yes! I have a cooler from them and it’s totally legit! I’ve heard good things about the trekking poles too.

[@jamesthornton3339]

I have two pairs of cascade mountain tech trekking poles, and they are surprisingly durable. After 3 years only cosmetic damage. The cork is very comfortable. I replaced them this year because I got a sweetheart deal on a pair of leki corklites, $43, I couldn't say no.

[@lyndseygolden7546]

I agree I preffer these poles for my tents set up and they are I think 13 oz instead of a pound like rei and black diamond. I broke one in a creek once but otherwise have beet the daylights out of the ones I have and I preffer the handle design it’s a little chunkier for my lanshen and my altaplex tents.

[@thumperthumper5322]

For years I thought that treking poles were a yuppy west coast thing or for old phone. Then the day I was on my back in the middle of a creek looking like a turtle legs and arms flailing about. I started laughing out loud so hard because in my head I could see Turtle Man me the next day I bought treking poles and I absolutely love them . plus no spider webs in your face . or twisted ankle or knees in unstable terrain.

[@camping-k]

I looked at my friend's backpacker equipment and referred to many things. Thank you for giving me a good idea 👍 👍

[@BackpackingTV]

Glad it’s helpful!

[@johncheeseman6764]

hi Eric, we use a 10 liter msr dromadery for camp water. I use a gravity feed sawyer squeeze system. it connects to our bladders and the msr . I filter once a day.

[@nobody-zl7gg]

I carry a led Lenser head lamp, and a tiny ledlenser torch both really excellent

[@patrickdolan.]

Trekking pole works great to prop up my teepee tent too.

[@eric55406]

Good lightweight trekking poles are not inexpensive. But very helpful indeed. Also useful with a trekking pole tent.

[@sagacioustwit7177]

Pocket bellows! Didn't know I needed one til I got one

[@duncanhynes929]

Meds, BC powder, chewable pink tummy tabs, etc. Also vitamin C as it helps muscles each day. Nail clippers too.

[@simoncurran6184]

My first back packing trip was in 2003. I bought some Brasher hiking socks for £15. I still have them and use them. They are a bit thinner than when they were new but at less than a quid a year thy might just be the cheapest socks I own

[@BackpackingTV]

Haha that’s some great value!

[@MikeHacker]

The pillow looks good

[@aimlessly.adventuring]

Hillsound packstack! Finally picked one up - I’m hooked! Lovvvve the shape vs packing cubes etc🙌🏻

[@joesmith4222]

Great tips Eric. A cheap $1 cotton bandana from Walmart is multi purpose.

[@BackpackingTV]

That’s a classic, yes!

[@vaseklepic12]

I have sent my compression sack home yesterday, because my pack is large enough and without it my sleeping bag makes for a better padding (and shifts center of gravity higher)

[@dallas_jessup]

Bought the water cell. Can’t wait to try it on my backpacking trip next month!

[@wisenber]

I think I spent several years doing away with most of those items. If I'm not in the desert, I probably don't need a dromedary bag, and my CNOC will hold 2 liters if I need it. If I've reduced my packing list, the need for a compression sack and an organizer bag goes away. Using a hammock, any piece of clothing works well enough for a pillow. I do carry trekking poles, but I tend to only use them when I'm tired or crossing a stream or have a heavy load. Otherwise, they slow me down and make accessing a camera take longer. I also like to let the trail dictate my gait and cadence rather than hiking poles. Plus the constant clicking is annoying. A strong headlamp is definitely on all my trips. Night hiking with 50 lumens just makes the process slower and more awkward than with 150 lumens. I've also carried a windscreen for years. I just really try to figure out what I actually need, and leave the rest out of my pack and off my back.

[@AaronVets]

150 lumens is not a “strong headlamp” 😆🤷🏻‍♂️✌🏽

[@wisenber]

@@AaronVets I didn't say 150 lumens is the highest setting. I said 150 lumens was enough for night hiking, which it is. My idea of a "strong headlamp" can withstand submersion, dust and cold, otherwise it isn't very useful. My primary caving headlamps tend to be in the 1000 lumen range, but I don't need that for hiking. After all, I'm hiking, not performing a SAR mission.

[@Jimmy-ni9es]

Great video! I think GRIP6 belts would be a pretty underrated piece of gear for backpacking. I work there currently, so I would love to see that if you plan on doing one of these kinds of videos again!

[@dianejosopait6538]

I use a second water pack when it is warm. This allowes me to have enough refill the camelback without a new search for water. Beside this I take the two litre version of both (camelback and second water pack). So even if it is so hot I need the full amount this is much better for me than just a single 3 litre camelback. Insteed of a pillow I usually use a pullover what is fine for me.

[@sha6mm]

I like my titanium Spoon.

[@CharlesHanesIV]

Along with wool socks if you add silk liners it's even better.

[@BackpackingTV]

I’ve never been a silk liner user but I might have to give it another go

[@mynamesjeffe782]

I recently watched a video of someone making a DIY windscreen out of beer cans for his stove and because it was custom he sized it to fit perfectly in his cooking pot

[@BackpackingTV]

That's a great way to do it!

[@troylynch9749]

I said something to the hiking Rev once about things to try to always pack vid he did and I still haven't seen anyone post but I think that a spare pair of bootlaces should be on the list. if your lace breaks yea you can tie a knot and keep going but they never get in the right spot so pulling your laces tight might catch in an eye or you will have the knot rubbing your foot ect...

[@debbilermond1553]

Great video, Eric. Your tips make a lot of sense! As hikers get older, they find the things they thought were dorky when they were young become essential hiking gear when they become Seniors. Trekking poles are a lifesaver for your knees and joints. I'm trying to go more towards UL but still have to take my Helinox Chair Zero since I have a bad back. A sit pad just won't do it for me after a long day's hike in the Cascades.

[@swenic]

Maybe sitting and sleeping in a hammock would work for you?

[@debbilermond1553]

@@swenic It won't help my back if I have to cook in a hammock as I have to lean forward. Also, I have a kyphoid neck from an auto accident over 50 years ago (my neck goes backwards bend from normal people). A hammock would put even more pressure on my aching neck.

[@swenic]

@@debbilermond1553 right, sorry for your trouble. Almost like I want to suggest having another accident but this time in reverse ;) Take care and good luck,

[@debbilermond1553]

@@swenic I've dealt with it for over 50 years. I wouldn't know what to do without it, LOL! You learn to cope as you get older. I don't stop - just slow down a bit. Keep on trekking! 😉

[@swenic]

@@debbilermond1553 Right on. Rock on Debbi!

[@boxy8438]

I'm all about the large water containers. I go through a lot of water hiking. And just refilling a bottle when I can won't cut it. I drank almost 8 liters doing black mountain Crest which I think was 12 miles.

[@BackpackingTV]

8 liters for drinking is a looot of water!

[@matthagge4792]

I was never a trekking pole user until I decided I got tired of free-standing pole tents. Now I use trekking-pole tents and save weight and don't have to deal with tent poles anymore. I'll take the added lame-factor as a trade off for the saved weight of a simpler tent and less knee strain. They're also a handy pole for tarp shelters and lean-tos.

[@BackpackingTV]

I still have a tendency to use free standing tents but I totally get the allure of what you’re doing!

[@matthagge4792]

@@BackpackingTV for sure, there’s a time an a place for everything! I’m in an environment with a lot of trees and soft soil so rigging guy-lines and putting stakes in the ground is super easy. I still take free-standing tents on alpine treks because it’s pretty hard to drive a stake into granite!

[@alexbachtel2265]

Just in time for the REI big sale. I got 90% of the list. One thing you forgot is the coffee filter that clips to your coffee cup

[@shanenevius4890]

I also recommend trying the Jogo Coffee Straw. I got it from kickstarter when it initially launched and have been really happy using it (as long as I’m drinking black coffee on the trail.) It’s basically a straw with a filter on its base to let you drink cowboy coffee without sucking in any grinds. Lightweight and can be used for tea or just filtering large particles out of water you collect (and treat!) I admittedly haven’t tried a coffee filter mug attachment but I like this option!

[@alexbachtel2265]

@@shanenevius4890 man I'm definitely gonna look that up! But the device I have had three prongs that connects to most cups and works great. Way better than the old school bring filters and put it right on the cup only to have the grinds spill at the last second 🤦. IDK how old school you do your coffee as far as "cowboy style" but the $5 device I got gives zero worries and stress with earlier, or late, morning coffee. I gotta know, how is drinking coffee out of a straw? New experience to me. Also, the device I use can fit inside the bottom of most cooking fuel canisters so pretty convenient

[@shanenevius4890]

@@alexbachtel2265 Drinking through a straw works alright for me. Not something I’m looking to do at home, but it helps my coffee cool a bit faster on the trail. It sounds like your cup attachment is a good method! Lightweight and fits in the pot is great.

[@alexbachtel2265]

@@shanenevius4890 oh the quicker cool down sounds like a definite positive for me. I'll have to get one when I get paid next!

[@Olympic_TryAthlete]

I recently switched back to ragwool socks. My feet don’t get as sweaty in them as in mostly synthetic ones and they seem to dry faster. And when they are a little damp, my feet don’t freeze in them the way they do in Merino or other socks.

[@BackpackingTV]

Interesting. I’ll have to experiment with that.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

.... Along with a good pair of moisture wicking liners ..

[@arthurrsaker8893]

Bamboo works for me, a soft comfortable wear, naturally anti microbial, dry off in no time after a rinse thru, an all round success.

[@chrisb4488]

Eric, Could you do a video on how you pack and carry your camera equipment on your backpacking trips?

[@cherylmacklin3578]

hi Eric 🌷 My most underrated piece of equipment wud be T.P. , I got a new ? Dab cloth ? Front end of women’s gear , suppose to hang it on ur pack to dry !? Mine wud never be dry !?, I go too much Or too often! So I never heard you really ever talk about no sleeping bag liner ? I wud think 🧐 w/such exp$ quilts/bags , that u”ld wanna keep “em clean!? 🧼 I asked Dan , “ how do you get that campfire 🔥 Smoke👃💨outta ur puffy coat?” 🧥 Well, keep up ⬆️ the good work and be a good boy !!! 🥾👍 Be safe & enjoy being Out there!!! Cheryl & Buddy 😊🐾

[@BackpackingTV]

Are you talking about a pee rag? Lots of women use them and hang them off their pack as the UV light will disinfect it. But I suppose if you're in wet cloudy climates it might not work well. As for sleeping bag liners, I use them in really cold weather. Otherwise I'm not concerned about cleanliness but I do recommend washing your sleeping bag each season. Same for the puffy coat. If you're really hanging around a campfire a lot though I recommend grabbing a cheap second hand long sleeve shirt that can go over your puffy coat when sitting around a campfire to reduce the number of holes you'll get from rogue embers that land on your puffy!

[@BarnyWaterg8]

Glow sticks! I like setting up glow sticks on 5 50 cord if I’m setting up a campsite.

[@BackpackingTV]

That’s an interesting one! Sounds like a party

[@UncleOutdoors]

I tried trekking poles once. Seams nice on a steep downhill to reduce the impact on my knees. On the other had I got annoyed that it got stuck on branches, small trees and so on. For now I don't use trekking poles.

[@huddless50]

Wool socks awesome and worth the cost multi day use, warm even when wet, anti bacterial. Want perfection then add a pair of sock liners and blisters be gone.

[@machbaby]

And use liner socks. Lightweight & cheap.

[@alangator]

Hi Eric - you mentioned using a windscreen for a pocket rocket - I've often read to not use a wind screen with the pocket rocket since it can overheat the canister/stove and potentially explode (which I guess might be true with any stove that gets connected directly on top of a canister). Do you have experience using a windscreen with canister stoves? If so, have you noticed the canisters getting hot?

[@christianb8228]

Get the pocket ticket deluxe it’s a better stove and doesn’t require a wind screen to work in windy conditions because it has a bit of a lip around the burner

[@georgeleakos8376]

I’ve been using wind screens with my canister stoves for years. Just don’t completely enclose the canister where heat will get trapped. Use common sense, wind screen in a semi-circle fashion around the canister is all you need.

[@browsman2328]

Sometimes I use a folding aluminum windscreen around my Soto Amicus stove, but prefer using my pack or.natural windbreaks like rocks or trees. But as others have said don’t wrap the windscreen all the way around and feel the canister every 30 sec or so. If it is too hot to touch turn the stove off. A stove with a recessed burner like the Amicus is more wind resistant than a stove where the burner sticks up into the wind but no sit on top canister stove is totally wind proof except the really expensive ones with a radiant burner like the ones from MSR and they don’t simmer very well.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

... If you read this on the internet ,,it must be true ..... not !.. Some comments are stated just to promote other brands of gear ...

[@coachhannah2403]

I have used a homemade windscreen with vent holes, with a reflector covering the canister. I make sure there is space around the pot. No problems yet, but I do know people who have had problems.

[@cwesley2005]

My favorite piece of gear. Copenhagen wintergreen

[@cliffspicer6555]

I think I also learned a new word as well as about some great gear. Never heard anyone else use the word “verticality “ I have to work that one into a conversation. “Bob it appears your performance review looks like your future with us lacks any upwards verticality” just kidding and great suggestions

[@MrFreeGman]

I can't stand blowup pillows. Doesn't matter to me how small and compact they are because I just can't sleep on them. I just use a small compressible pillow that I roll up and tie with a string. It's worth the extra space in my pack for sure, since getting good sleep is critical.

[@mconley12345]

i use a water bag that weighs 1-2 oz but holds 2-3 gallons no cap although. Good for bringing water back to camp and letting the sediment go to the bottom before pouring off the top and filtering...I also use a cnoc 3 liter for backup extra water plus gravity system

[@BackpackingTV]

Anything to haul water to camp is great. How does yours not spill when you leave it be if you can’t close it?

[@mconley12345]

@@BackpackingTV It has 2 handles to hang it

[@AaronVets]

@@BackpackingTV I use the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Folding Bucket 10L to do the same thing...it has a single handle and weighs exactly 1oz...I’ve even managed to packraft it back to camp without spilling a drop a few times but it was awkward 😆 Fits in the tiny pocket watch pocket on pants with room to spare 👍 Great piece of kit like everything by StS.

[@michaelcapeless3268]

Inside tip: People who think that trekking poles are lame, are actually pretty lame. Up-down-crossing streams-crossing talus slopes, crossing mud... Helps your knees last longer, engages your upper body in the whole transit process... good one, Erik

[@davidpaquet9405]

Most underrated tool : knowledge

[@wolfoutdoorscanada]

love that water bag! showing opinion is cool !

[@dereinzigwahreRichi]

I've been using all of this from the beginning. I am either a born Pro Hiker or just lucky to have read the right tips. ;-)

[@BackpackingTV]

You must be a pro!

[@captxcountry9835]

Great video! Also, a Carbon Steel knife…

[@gavingeorgecouk8250]

Covered the basics

[@BackpackingTV]

That's what I try to do

[@sujiut]

My suggestion - almost an order, actually - costs about 50 cents, and would be a high priority in my survival kit. After considering this very question for 50 years it's the closest I have come to what I would REALLY like to take - an infinite supply of paper towels. Now perhaps I'm a tad biased, as most of my backpacking has been done in very rainy places (for a living for a while), but the ability to DRY things is a high priority. Since, after careful consideration I have decided the paper towels would be too heavy, I opt for 1 of those "absorbent cloths", usually yellow, made of matted fibres, NOT woven like a "travel towel" or "microfiber cloths". They don't work so well as the fibres are twisted close together removing space for capillary action. Hair sopping after hiking in rain and don't want to get your sleeping bag damp? Blot dry, then wring it out, then repeat until COMPLETELY dry. It doesn't take long. Tent floor puddled from entering during rain? Same technique. Combined with a bar of soap (sized to the length of your trip) means you can wash and dry wherever you are. Makes a huge difference to comfort, temperature, energy expenditure, and morale. A little experimentation with brands is necessary, as some are better than others. You are looking for the finest fibres. Don't get the packs of 10: they are normally coarser fibres. Packs of 2 is the way to go. You're welcome.

[@Zeronohigher]

Hey, I am a proponent of PTowels as well!! I tend to use two to dry off after my wash ups & dry them out to use again! I use the same two towels for a while then use them when I’m done for other chores like you mentioned. Nothin beats em & thanx as I see no one else using them very often.

[@mattheeau]

Can I have more informations about this cloth, I am very interested! Thank you!

[@RC-qf3mp]

For the compression sack… would that mess up a Katabatic 15 flex superdown quilt? Basically, I’m not sure how to properly maintain the quilt (it’s new) and don’t want the compression sack to mess it up. Thanks if you have experience or knowledge about this. Also… awesome hoodie! Love AGC alpaca .

[@jim_glasgow]

Your sleeping bag will be fine IF you unpack it and store it flat or folded over a hanger whilst home. The stuff sack is only for the time that your sleeping bag is in your rucksack. Store it full out so that it is aired and dry and only stuff it whilst camping.

[@mariawhite7337]

You're in southern Utah. Close to Moab hmm? I know that rock and scrub.

[@MikeHacker]

Ok socks are a must

[@MikeHacker]

That water bag i would take in a car camping

[@BackcountryExposure]

When I’m guiding we carry the 10L drom bags and always call them baby seals. 😂

[@BackpackingTV]

Haha that sounds about right!

[@emmber19]

I use mine as a pillow at night

[@fsdfmsbcxx]

Hi, what's the model name of the pillow, please? Thanks

[@coachhannah2403]

I use old bamboo x-c ski poles. They do not adjust, but at 15 oz the pair, I'm OK with that.

[@BackpackingTV]

Nice! Sounds solid to me.

[@justnicky17]

Beginner here. How can you tell if it's a clean water source?

[@darrentabor4839]

I was going to suggest the Sea to Summit eVent compression dry sack as the best on the market, but you've already linked directly to it. 🙂

[@sebastienbonte5209]

Hi Eric. Once again great video. What’s this hoodie? He’s so cool Thanks and keep going

[@IgnacioGlezCllo]

The Sea To Summit E-vent compression bag is MAGIC, seriously, there's no other way to describe that item

[@robuncorked]

For an average down -7C sleeping bag, what size stuff sack would you suggest? I'm remote and need to order online and I just can't seem to grasp what size I should get.

[@IgnacioGlezCllo]

@@robuncorked I have an M for my synthetic -4C bag if i remember correctly, so that should work out ok

[@Angel-hm9so]

I have a synth quilt and that bag gets it very small. Its guaranteed dry until i use it.

[@jeffs4483]

A 1 gallon plastic water jug works just fine too.

[@jjlimon24]

I recently used my water cell as a pillow cause I forgot mine and it wasn't bad lol

[@BackpackingTV]

Haha nice improv! I’ve done quite a few variations of that

[@alexabney7913]

I want trekking pole tips that look like little buck knife blades

[@erikjensen6503]

Folding saw sven to be specific, always useful but sometimes unnecessary

[@jacbe965]

I'd love to know exactly which of the Sea to Summit Compression sacks this is that you recommend for the sleeping bag. The link above will only work for viewers in the USA. When I follow the link in Europe, it says that the webshop you link to does not ship to Europe and won't even show me the item so that I can find an alternative supplier.

[@joshuaderapokalyptischerei3550]

Unfortunately the links under your this video doesn't work anymore. Nice video, great gear!

[@bradybaker]

random side-question, what sweater are you wearing? Appalachian Gear All-Paca?

[@E_G_E51]

I personally love having a glasses case or cloth. For my normal glasses, sunglasses and camera lenses.

[@zaugeske9595]

For the trekking poles 10 to 15% would be 10 miles feeling like 9 or 8 and 1/2 MI

[@vaseklepic12]

I love my trekking poles, though I can't agree about them being underrated

[@BackpackingTV]

You don’t think they’re underrated?

[@vaseklepic12]

@@BackpackingTV I would say they live up to the hype, they might have been underrated a few years ago

[@kevinperry581]

You forgot a 9mm. 😂

[@backlash370]

Saves your night vision.

[@richarddemas5262]

Is that the 4 liter watercell?

[@NikonF5user]

Are hikers no longer wearing silk sock liners? That was all the rage 20 years ago or so it seems. But I never see anybody on KZbin videos wearing them!

[@Angel-hm9so]

They are hard to find. I got a pair of dress socks a few years ago, on clearance, because they cost less than shipping. Never expected to use them. I gave them a try and wore them non stop year round as liners. Wore out the heels and looking for more.

[@MikeHacker]

If i have a trekking tent maybe use those but otherwise trekking poles it's extra weight.

[@danielpadilla5610]

You said you use aidells sausage is almost all of your meals. How long does it go in less than reasonable temps???

[@renemedina8026]

You Rock dude

[@Baasicstuff]

On average whats your base weight? Seems like many items you promote are slightly heavier than my choices .....25lbs?

[@BackpackingTV]

I lean more towards comfort and functionality than weight savings. I honestly almost never weigh my kit but it’s probably just over 20 lbs base weight.

[@markinco1376]

insulated bubble wrap and duct tape food cozy to keep backpacker meals warm while rehydrating...weighs only grams, costs only pennies.

[@BackpackingTV]

Man, why didn’t I think of that??!

[@arthurrsaker8893]

And it's a useful extra layer of ground insulation and protectionunder any sleep mat. If punctured, loss of air is restricted to only a few cells or maybe only one with no noticeable loss of warmth.

[@mikekranis]

If it’s cotton let it be forgotten 😀