My Big 3 With Detailed Reasons for My Appalachian Trail 2022 Thru Hike

[@Hope8x28]

I love how much information you give, Jay. You're a natural teacher.

[@JakeRuby]

Hey Jay, look into the 'triangle' method of erecting your Plex. It results in a better pitch than staking out all the corners first. Order is: stake out back corners, insert pole and tension to create a balanced triangle, stake out pole, stake out front corners, stake out rear.

[@JayWandersOut]

That's the method I always used for my Duplex. I'll give it a shot with this as well.

[@imaginedmountains2311]

Never considered the air temperature change causing people to think their pad has a slow leak but man, this makes perfect sense.

[@larchlarch9851]

That's some quality gear. Looking forward to seeing you on the AT !

[@pdx427]

great review. will be watching your upcoming trek.

[@smokescreen6914]

Thanks a million Jay!! You covered everything in such great detail. You’ve answered a lot of question a beginner hiker would have. I didn’t know how a quilt worked until I watched this. 😅

[@ewokinthewoods]

I have the same pad, loved the pump bag. I didn’t seem to have a difficult time putting the pump bag on wing fill that you have. I rolled the pad and put it inside the pump bag, used the tie from the bag to wrap around and lock in place. Saves a little weight without the cord you have. At night it’s also nice to put day clothes inside and use as another pillow. I’m a side/belly sleeper, so another pillow is nice for arms or legs. Thanks for explaining the ambient air and loss of air as night is colder. My pad is longer though since I don’t put my feet up on backpack.

[@JayWandersOut]

Weird. I've hear multiple reports of easy fitting or tight fitting pump connections. Makes me want to grab my micrometer, go to REI, and measure all their xlites.

[@anthonyng8800]

Great video and info! Never heard anyone else comment on warm lung air causing deflation as the air cools overnight! Makes scientific sense

[@DollarBlazing]

I hate when my arms fall out of quilt. I either wear my jacket and put my hands in my pocket (so comfy), or tuck my hands into my waist band but I too use the same sleeping bag liner and that works so well at preventing my arms from growing legs and making their way into the cold cold air. I also use it with longer part of the liner for the top of my body not the bottom. Then i pull it over my head to cover my face. Cozy. Also, one of your previous videos, regarding the shemagh you used on the AZT, inspired me to purchase something similar to the merino wool you will be taking. Unfortunately in southern Arizona it does not get too cold where I can test it out. I am really looking forward to seeing you use it on the AT. Once again Jay, an amazing video. So appreciate you going into great detail. I can't wait to watch your journey!

[@anitasoutdooradventures]

I am glad I'm not the only one having trouble with attaching the inflation bag on the Thermarest Neoair Xlite. . After watching your video I knew the problem was not me. I tried something. I opened the connector on the inflation bag, heated the "hole" with a hair dryer. I would heat it for a couple of minutes, and then push it down on something with a cone shape (I had a fairy garden gnome with a hat)and let it cool. I did this a few times. I think it helped a little. I also noticed if I snap it onto the air pad while it is still rolled up it seems to be easier.

[@JayWandersOut]

Great advice! I was going to file it but I may try the heat method.

[@kennethclapp9713]

You are the first person I’ve heard that has hot feet like myself when in my quilts. I hate sleeping in socks lol

[@janmariolle]

Excellent gear video! I’m getting excited to follow your next adventure. I love that feeling of new gear and trail.

[@LordQuiche]

Nice Jay. Picked up some good tips as usual. I’ve got the Six Moons Luna Solo which is a single pole tent of similar design. If I didn’t live in the UK I would’ve bought the Altaplex. Looks amazing!

[@TeddyBearFarmer]

Good gear video 👏👏👏 we have a lot of the same gear.I added guy lines to my footprint for my duplex the same as on the tent it made it so much easier to set up prefect every time

[@DanielOutdoors]

The only thing I notized with the Zpacks, from watching all the videos is that the pack seem to be the most comfortable, but eventually the pack gets broken. Compared to packs like the Hyperlite, Wallmart, Nashville, or ohm.

[@HikingWithWhiskers]

Awesome choices Jay! Thank you!🥾🥾⛺️

[@georgeattaway1848]

Thanks for sharing,nice gear.

[@markcummings6856]

Jay, you may want to consider just using your compactor bag as a pump sack for your pad. It surprisingly works quite well. Gather up end in a loose fist. Insert nozzle in same. Firm up the tightness and press bag with arm and chest. Shockingly it’s quite efficient with all things considered.

[@JayWandersOut]

That's interesting. I'll give it shot.

[@EarlyRiser71]

Great video Jay. I loved your reasoning for getting the blue color for the Altaplex. I got the dirt color...and it's NOT very photogenic. 😥 For most people that doesn't factor in their decision process, but I think I would have changed my mind had I heard your reasoning before I bought my tent. I was going for the least transparent (see through) color/fabric weight...but that doesn't really matter since I always stealth away from people anyway. Thanks for pushing my thought process. I'm adding it to future decision making models!!!🤘🕓

[@JayWandersOut]

I have the camo Duplex as well and it almost hides in some photos. During that time I got jealous of these pretty blue tents and orange tents everywhere. I even got a dark 4runner thinking I want to be stealthy but I wish I'd gotten white so it pops and people looking for camp spots see me long before they get near. I think I was watching your vlog before I got the camo Duplex so I blame you! :)

[@EarlyRiser71]

@Jay Wanders Out haha! I still love my camo duplex...but my baby poop colored Altaplex is UGLY!

[@howied9369]

Thanks for the hands on demo and assements! Will definately follow and support. Really appreciate sharing Tech info and tips! I am currently looking at refitting most of my pack and gear due to tech weight considerations..

[@taratreks]

Hey Jay! Love the videos. Looking forward to following this year :)

[@josiebones1]

Thanks for the detailed video! I have been questioning the supplemental pads if I order the Arc Haul. I will definitely be adding them to the cart if I take the plunge.

[@gypsygirlhikes]

Great tips Jay. Thanks for sharing!!

[@wesleywade8363]

Looking forward to your winter start! Do you think the design flaws on the Arc Haul that you experienced on the PCT have been fixed?

[@JayWandersOut]

Yep. At least two straps broke on the PCT. On trail I noticed several people had the bottom strap holding the arc mesh wear and break. The 2016 model had the connection on the very bottom so it touched the ground. I saw some people with newer models, as well as this new one, with that connection an inch or so higher. The sides of the hip pockets were connected to the belt via 2 pieces of thin string with a toggle. One broke and one almost broke on me. I see the new ones use a little plastic clip now. The big thing I learned though is to occasionally check over your pack and look for wears and attempt to prevent further wear with duct tape before it becomes a problem. With that I think this pack will make it to the end, not like my old one.

[@wesleywade8363]

@@JayWandersOut Thanks for the great information!

[@outcastsix7021]

Nice choices… I’m a fan of the Arc Haul Zip for easy access and I also have the shoulder and lumbar pads as well. Consider the Exped Schnozzel as it has the same connection for the t-rest new nozzle and it doubles as a pack liner for me. I have the EE Rev 20 and a UGQ Bandit 0 as far as quilts. I contemplate the Altaplex all the time but just haven’t gone there yet as I have the duplex and can’t really justify it.

[@JayWandersOut]

Thanks for the tip about the Schnozzel. I read some reviews and they say it's tight. I wonder if it can still be better than the one I used here. Now I'm wondering if there's something I can fabricate to make the bridge.

[@artallen2860]

I had my son 3D print an adapter for the Exped Schonzzell pump bag to the new ThermoRest pad valve. I can inflate a Regular Wide in 3-4 bags in the time it took you to just attach the pump bag. I also mark the sleeping pad for the locations of the EE quilt straps. See my short video kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIuaenWhZd6IkNU

[@carlumland6657]

Jay, try using a little bit of lube like vaseline or aquaphor on the nozzle connectors of your pad and pump sack.

[@MishapAmethystHikes]

Looks like you've made some great choices Jay hope to see you out there 😁

[@lisaweppler1669]

I love watching your vids.. cant wait to watch your journey See you on the trail peach

[@TeaParty45]

P.S. Thanks so much for the link to the company in Finland that sells a Marino Wool kerchief! I got one and it seems very similar to the one, from North X North, that you have!!

[@TeaParty45]

Not sure if you still monitor this but I am planning an AT thru hike attempt starting in February 2024 and since I am a “newbie”, I watched your PCT and AT thru hikes (among many others) and am essentially copying, for the most part, your gear. I had a few questions, if you don’t mind? 1) am wondering what kind and where you got the bags for electronics and miscellaneous items as most of the ones I see are too big?; 2)where did you get those small “button” cylinder shaped towels for cleaning yourself daily? What are they called or brand?; 3)what is the product you use to prevent chafing?; 4)You listed 2 fanny packs but didn’t you just use the Hyperlite Versa and not the “High Tail Designs” one?; 5)Did you carry the AWOL AT guidebook or just use Far Out?; 6)wondering if the 3” Z Packs 1.3mm Z-line is strong enough to hold the umbrella to the Arc Haul shoulder straps or is a thicker cord needed like the REI 7” bungee cord or some other thicker “shock” cord?; 7) You carried your water bottles in the side pockets (With the pack on, I can’t grab the bottles on the sides)so I am wondering,since I’m not carrying a camera on my shoulder strap, would you recommend I get a Zpacks extra bottle holder pocket to put on my shoulder strap for easier access or did you just stop and take your pack off when you wanted water? Sorry about all of the questions! I know you are busy and I won’t blame you if you don’t answer. Say hi to Tina. Enjoyed a bunch of your Canada vlogs- those bears got too close!! Take care. Good luck to you both. God Bless. SEMPER Fi

[@richholtzman9754]

Nice job Jay. You put out the best videos!

[@rivetingadventures5450]

Nice gear selection. I am carrying similar kit with zpacks arc blast, EE revolution 10 degree, and zpacks duplex tent. If you stay with your current pumpsack, have you tried using a grease supplement to help snap it on better? Something simple like chapstix might do the trick...

[@JayWandersOut]

I thought about some sort of lube but my lips would touch it so a chapstick could make it easier.

[@carlumland6657]

Or Aquaphor

[@azcolby40]

Have a great hike

[@DanielOutdoors]

Its a great lightweight tent, the problem I see is that kind of tent cannot withstand 4 season or harsh weather. dyneema saddly is strong with it give to much tentions on the little lightwieght tents and cordage eventually will blow the tent or rip it. Because it not strech its also an aerodynamic problem, thats also why 4 seasons tents are silnylon too. Dyneema air flows are also a problem in storms, so you need to setup that kind of tents down the valley or in protection from elements. Nylon 66 is better against storms. Im actually designing a ultralight silnylon 66 tent, its more aerodynamic. In Norway where my thru hike is going to happend we need to have something that can with stand a storm passing by up in the plain mountains, and fjords. But again its perfect for AT (and PCT) i presume.

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

Awesome video. I thought about taking my old school Zpacks Hexamid tent (my Hobbit home) but it's a lot smaller than to your Plexamid so the Duplex is coming. I guess I can always switch it out later if I want. I blew out a nylofume bag once compressing it too hard in my pack (my fault but still) so I switched to the same white compactor bag. I like how you aren't using additional dry bags for your clothes and quilt but just stuffing them down. I like that. I've done it both ways but stuffing it down is so much easier. I'm going to steal your idea of wrapping up the air pad with the blow up sack. Another layer of protection is always good. On an unrelated note, maybe later you can let me know how your transferring your sd card footages to your external SSD. I'm trying to figure that out. Really enjoyed the video bro.

[@JayWandersOut]

I've tried the nylofume bag as well from Gossamer Gear and on the very first night out I poked a thumb right through it like nothing. One compactor bag lasted me the entire PCT. On the CDT I gave a thru hiker a compactor bag around her first week, I always carry extra in the car, and then saw her up at East Glacier and she said she still had the same compactor bag. Those things are tough! For the data I just have a USB type-c to SD&microSD card adapter from Anker. I had one before but it was painfully slow. This newer one is much faster so it should reduce my frustration copying everything over to the phone. I make folders for each video, in this case each day and put everything related to it in there including screen shots of interest, photos, videos, notes, and the description for each YT video. I render to the same folder as well as save a thumbnail there. Before my SD card adapter also had a USB type-a jack so I plugged a 512GB thumb drive into it and copied everything to the thumb drive. It was super slow. Now I then just use a type-c to type-c cable, plug in a hard drive and copy the completed folders over. The solid state drives are fast! They take power from the phone so you'll have to have enough power to copy everything but from my tests a 5GB file copied over in maybe less than 30 seconds. Each day of data was usually 5-10GB but this time around I'm guessing it'll be more like 15-20GB since everything will be 4k. It used to take maybe 10 minutes per folder. Horrible. Now I'm hoping it's less than 2min per folder. 6 days of folders should take 12min, not bad. Before it was 90 minutes where I couldn't do anything with the phone and I had to copy 1 or 2 days at a time because it could need charging after 2 folders. Someone told me iPhones don't have enough power to run the SSD drives though.

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

@@JayWandersOut Yes, I thought that I could upload the GoPro micro sd to my iphone and then plug in a Type C to lightning cable (to iphone) and transfer file to SSD. I'm being told that won't work b/c the SSD requires additional power so now I'll have to figure out the work around. Apple makes a Lightning to USB3 adapter dongle that is supposed to address this.

[@JayWandersOut]

Yep, I heard one vlogger, Alicia in the Mountains, got a lightning to SD card adapter and was going to just copy data to several cards. Slower but should get the job done.

[@DanielOutdoors]

I stopped using Thermarest (due to the noise laying on it, not Amok hammock compatible, and the valves are awefull). I like Exped, or Amok, pads way more. But see if one of the lightweight pumps to inflate the pad can help you with your issue. I know they have their own pump, but I like more using the Flextailgear 3-in-1 Mini Inflatable Air Pump

[@JayWandersOut]

I'm a pretty still sleeper and the Thermarests do get quieter over time.

[@BearTrekAdventures]

Nice video Jay. Good luck on your start you should be starting soon. Frozen from Outdoor Adventures does a nice video on using the pack liner to inflate the sleeping pad - it works pretty good. I only mention that since you highlight how difficult the Thermarest stuff sack is getting around the nozzle.

[@JayWandersOut]

I saw they used to sell a kit to make any large bag like a pack liner into a pump sack. I guess I should've looked around more since then for these new valves.

[@markcummings6856]

@@JayWandersOut No valve needed. It works rather efficiently just gathering end of bag in loose fist. Insert valve inside bag/fist, hold tight of course, and compress bag as you are holding between chest and arm. Two KZbinrs; Grizz, and Frozen Outdoors have videos on it for reference.

[@wanttogo1958]

First of all, like you are doing, use what works for you whether or not it is the same everyone else is using. No different in the Marine Corps for good reason. As for your valve to bag union being tight, the Chapstick idea might work. The other thought I had was try some plumbers silicon grease. It is petroleum products free and they do make a food grade version of it. It's used to lube plastic parts in faucets, water filters etc. It's even used in beer taps (food grade type). You can find it online or at home stores in a 1/2 oz size. It retains it lubricating characteristics down to about -40° F. Chapstick is beeswax so am not sure how it will do in really cold weather on plastic. Take a little piece of very fine, wet sand type sandpaper and work it lightly until it's just right if the lube doesn't do the trick. I have the Xlite and Xtherm with the old valve so can use the other sack meant for those or a nylofume bag too for a quicker inflation time. Those 3 oz, rechargeable pumps one person commented about look promising too if you don't mind the weight penalty. Thermarest makes one too but I have seen comments where some who used them didn't quite get a full AT thru hike out of it. Great review of your big three! You really do a nice job explaining your rationale for your choices and some "pro tips" for those who don't have your experience. Good luck out there. It looks like our polar air is going to be around for awhile. Semper Fi!

[@krisg3984]

--Wow- a video with NO commercials , except the help me out affiliate links mention. Let’s help Jay out .

[@randysmith6493]

well done. I like your marina wool scarf, got the night head warm dialed in well. Yeah, surprised you went blue, I was thinking my zpacks duplex would be more privet in the leaf pattern design. You mentioned angle of the wind relative to the door, and I was thinking without two doors the way you face the wind might be a problem in tight spots. Jan 28th, wow. Okay, blessings of safety and fun be with you. 🙏

[@moyashisoba]

You could just try another pumpsack from Therm-a-Rest (same model). I own 3 of them and every single one fits differently on the valve. One is too loose, one is too tight and one is just perfect.

[@JayWandersOut]

I wish they'd make them out hard rubber instaed of hard plastic and make them consistently. Now it's too late to play with new bags so I'll hope it just loosens up. I may shave the edge with a knife or file or something.

[@ChopperChad]

I have the same problem with the inflation bag with my NeoAir. Ended up using the bag from my Xtherm. It goes on easier for some reason.

[@JayWandersOut]

Is your Xtherm the winglock as well? Mine is the old fashioned narrower nozzle style. I kind of don't want to use that sack because I figure that would stretch the bag connection too loose to use on the Xtherm in the future.

[@ChopperChad]

@@JayWandersOut it is

[@jeffstone28]

Great video, Jay. I'm really looking forward to following your AT journey. What fleece beanie do you have? I want one. If you're hiking into July, you may encounter some hot weather and the humidity will just amplify it.

[@JayWandersOut]

I gave a Condor brand one but the new ones aren't as long. Not sure where to get another long beanie.

[@Ohhhj0]

Heck yeah!! Letsss gooo! 🤙🏼

[@FOLLOWINGWALKERSWORLD]

Was the Zpacks Plex Solo available when you bought the Altaplex? It’s the shorter version of the Altaplex. Being 5’ 6” it would have been fine plus you wouldn’t need the trekking pole extension. I’m 6’ 2” & will be curious how you compare it to your duplex. 👍

[@JayWandersOut]

The Plex Solo wasn't announced when I bought it. I kind of like all the space for all my gear though so it's fine.

[@jimmyjohnstone5878]

Your tent didn't work well that snow night outside the shelter where some people had out tents inside the shelter. That was maybe due to lack of good ground to pitch, but it seemed that the structure didn't have enough tension to take snow and wind load.

[@judeoliver5256]

Hi Jay. AT 5. ft 6 inches, is the short Revelation quilt long enough for you?

[@JayWandersOut]

Yep, got the short wide and it's been perfect.

[@masterofnone11]

It just seems like with the zpacks you have to buy a backpack after you buy a backpack

[@drytool]

Get the upgraded drybag Pump sack, you'll thank me

[@papajeff5486]

Would a little silicon lubricant help? Thanks for sharing. Kentucky

[@100acres6]

I like blue because I wake up to a brighter cheery color, blue like the sky. I find dull green or camo depressing.

[@chuckoffcampus9738]

Why are you not using the Peak Designs camera clip?

[@JayWandersOut]

The camera mount for it was incompatible with the ball head I'm using on my tripod. The Pgytech clip and camera mounts work perfectly though.

[@rvator51]

Did you decide not to use the zpacks multi-pack?

[@JayWandersOut]

Yes, it was way too hot wearing that thing and it was kind of cumbersome taking off the pack with it all the time. I'm now using a fanny pack for those tasks. My camera hanging on my shoulder strap makes it cumbersome enough taking the pack off so I like it easier with the fanny pack. Also, my old multi-pack is worn out and that zipper could break any minute.

[@jasonsadler7020]

Great gear selection. Looking forward to seeing your hike!

[@masterofnone11]

Do you think the osprey is to heavy for a at thru hike ? The zpack seems to be lacking in quality, comfort and longevity where it makes up for that in weight.

[@JayWandersOut]

It could work. Just don't get a 65L then fill it. Lots of people use Ospreys and hike just fine. It's a matter of getting a decent sized one and keeping the rest of your gear as light as you can.

[@masterofnone11]

@Jay Wanders Out would you recommend the 65L ?

[@masterofnone11]

I'm watching your detailed electronics and vlogging gear video. I'm overwhelmed with all the tech and don't know if I will ever be able to shoot a video and get it on KZbin.. I'm only 32 but feel like a grandpa not knowing how this works 🤣🤣

[@JayWandersOut]

@@masterofnone11 That's far too big. Get a bigger pack and you will fill it so it will be heavy.

[@masterofnone11]

@Jay Wanders Out thanks for the reply !! Hope you're doing great ! I'm assuming your still in Gatlinburg

[@chalampakala9788]

Could you please let me know why nobody takes fjall raven bags?

[@JayWandersOut]

I don't know too much about them but it's likely because they are too heavy or too large. Weight and bulk are very important to thru hikers.

[@chalampakala9788]

@@JayWandersOut Thanks. Good luck with your journey.

[@chrishennemeyer7276]

Man, given all the criticisms of that pack, the design flaws, etc. I'm baffled by why you want to use it.

[@jefferypike2304]

The money you spent on that pack and have all those cons with the lumbar and the the webbing that is sewn into the upper straps is not good

[@bradorndorff7408]

My new Tesla phone has an app that plugs into any inflatable pad and puffs it to whatever comfort level l like. 🤣 Not

[@JayWandersOut]

One time I said I was dizzy while blowing up a pad when my girlfriend was around then she kept blowing up my pad! Too and I can't take her with really right?

[@907-q7u]

LOL... that stuffsack.