The Best Budget Backpack | Teton Sports Explorer 4000!

[@DoseofDirt]

Discount code is doseofdirt20 and will give you 20% off almost anything on the site! So even if you don't like or want the backpack, check out what else they have and get 20% off! I own (and purchased myself) the Teton Sports Camp Pillow, Teton Sports Scout 3400 (slightly smaller pack), Teton Sports Leef 0 Degree Bag, and Teton Sports Trailhead 20 sleeping bag. Love them all!

[@TetonGear]

Thank you so much for the review! We appreciate it, and will take your suggestions to our Product Development Team. :) We hope you have tons of fun adventures with the Explorer!

[@DoseofDirt]

The adventures are just beginning with the explorer! Thanks again for the hookup on the discount code!

[@JB-kh5uk]

For anyone interested, it appears that the new model has addressed some of the concerns of the video. The new Explorer 65 has two hip belt pockets and the exterior mesh pocket, while still small, is now made of stretchy material.

[@MiniSquatch785]

They've added hip pockets!!! Woot

[@kevcross7]

Just tried your code on their website. It’s on sale for $65 + $9 shipping -$13 discount. $61 out the door. Just bought one. Keep up the good work Jeff

[@garrycollins3415]

I concur

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks, Kev! $61 dollars is almost stealing it! 🤣 Unbelievable you can get a pack of this quality for that price! Thanks for letting me know!

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks, Garry! Glad to hear the review is helpful! They also just let me know that the code will work on almost ANYTHING on their site! Thanks for watching!

[@trappedinabox24]

Just picked this up for $68! I’m excited. Know there are lighter packs but for entry into the hobby I think it was a great price.

[@tlcairsoft4703]

Just ordered mine! Your detailed review reallly convinced me to buy it and the discount code is amazing! Thnx Jeff!

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey! Thanks, man! Hope you enjoy it! It's definitely an awesome value! The price right now is incredible! Thanks so much for all your support!

[@donaldopedro8148]

This remind me of my military pack but without the moles. Great review!

[@pahoaproductions9991]

👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 mahalo for the review 😆😁ordering one now lol

[@SouthernHike]

It would MASSIVE if I could get a pocket for my bear canister hahaha Great breakdown man! If you carrying a lot of gear this would be a good budget choice. I could also see it good for carrying childrens gear with you if you brought them with you.

[@DoseofDirt]

🤣🤣 Ya, awesome budget pack for big/heavy loads, like you said! Thanks for watching!

[@robertuffman3041]

i will put my tvex ground sheet in the mesh pocket. i just got my 75liter yesterday. i'm stoked.

[@DoseofDirt]

NICE! Teton makes great stuff!

[@pauldstoltman]

I've got a question/comment. Firstly, thanks for your very informative review and taking the time to do it. You mentioned a couple of things I doubt I would have known about if not for your video. 👍 Secondly, what I wrote offline turned out to be Way too long so this is me (trying) to be less verbose. I just purchased the pack listed below. TETON Sports Explorer 65 Backpack...its name on Amazon. I just rechecked the order page and the photos say Explorer 4000 on the bottom of the pack, not Explorer 65 as the one I received does. While yours has straps on the top part you referred to as "the brain", mine has no straps, just the loops for them. (something I'll be contacting Teton about since you relayed your customer contact experience with them and their willingness to sort out issues) But, on my cushioned waist straps, mine DOES have a zippered pocket on each side. So, I think the differences could very well lie between the model year offered on Amazon, as far as I can tell. I purchased the 2022 version instead of the 2021. I was mainly searching for advice about packing/attaching objects and otherwise general uses of this pack and I'd like to again mention your review was Extremely helpful and informative. As I have found your other ones to be as well. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge. Paul

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks, Paul! Sorry for the slow response! We just moved into a different house and it's been a bit of a week! 🤪Based on the Amazon listing, looks like there is a new version for 2022 (wish they would have sent me THAT one!). The main differences seem to be that instead of the mesh pocket (that I didn't like anyway) there is now another zippered pocket, lack of straps on the top (but still has some loops), and the hip belt pockets like you pointed out. Based on the pictures, I think I would prefer the 2022 version because of the hip belt pockets and that more useful pocket on the back. I would prefer a stretch mesh pocket, but the new zipper pocket is better than the tiny mesh pocket they had before. For attaching things, I've learned to just use a bit of paracord and do a truckers knot. This is a great video on how to do the knot. It's super easy to do and undo, so it's perfect for backpacking: kzbin.info/www/bejne/imnHhoOVrayUack Thanks so much for your comment! Truly appreciated! kzbin.infogaming/emoji/7ff574f2/emoji_u1f92a.png

[@Eric-fx9xf]

I've had my Teton sports explorer 4000 for over 2 years and it has worked out well. I did break a load out strap a few months ago but that's probably because I put like 70 pounds in it repeatedly going to get groceries on my bike lol. I've had so much liquid weight in it at times it was just ridiculous. I know it can fit at least 40 beers lmao.

[@DoseofDirt]

70 POUNDS?!?! 🤯🤯 That is impressive. But I'm sure it worked great! I wonder if they would send you a new pack with the warranty? The Explorer 4000 is a beast! Thanks for watching!

[@Eric-fx9xf]

@@DoseofDirt I never filled anything out. I got the pack off Amazon for 87 bucks. Definitely a highly durable pack for sure. ✌

[@nickboi8072]

This is my current pack. Soon, I will be buying an osprey, but this pack has served me well.

[@oo-ru5lt]

Great beater/loaner pack. I got mine for 60 bucks almost 10 years ago.

[@Doc_Watson]

My buddy had a Teton pack. Didn't realize that they have a lifetime warranty. He broke a strap or zipper on it and got a new pack. He liked the pack, but he doesn't hike far with it. Personally, I didn't care for all the pockets that it has.

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks, Doc! Ya, the pockets are definitely something that you either love or hate. I had gotten used to just having one large pocket over the last year, but I enjoyed having the organization again (although I did have a few moments on trips where I thought 'what pocket did I put that in??' 😂)

[@jyoung5594]

Thanks for the great review, Buddy.

[@TheGoldenBear79]

Great review! I’m really impressed by your responses to the comment’s; that’s awesome! Helps a lot to hear from someone who has used a product enough to give you a great overall review from their experience. Your comment, “If we were friends, and I’d like to think we are…”, tells me you are my kind of guy! I’ve often said I don’t have a second left in life to make any enemies, but I’ve got the rest of my life to make another friend! Hope you have a wonderful day, and thanks again for everything bro! ✌️P.S. I had to like the video & subscribe after watching it! Looking forward to watching more of your content!Thanks again!

[@kokopelauwebb5731]

I'm a budget camper/hiker. I've got a Teton explorer 4000 pack, a Teton Leef 0 degree sleeping bag. Zipper pull tang on first back pack broke, zipper still works just not as easy. Emailed them, sent the requested picture got a whole new bag by return shipping. Now have 2 bags. Very happy with Teton as GOOD, budget gear. Have slept in the Leef 0 sleeping bag at 10f so far, still warm. The pad wasn't Teton though. Teton great isn't ultra light, just ultra good for the price. I'm also over 70 so I can't waste money on junk.

[@DoseofDirt]

That is awesome! Teton's customer service is amazing! Thanks for sharing your experience so others can see that as well! Awesome that they sent you a new bag to make sure you were all good to go! I'm definitely a fan of the Leef and their backpacks. For the price, I dont' think you can do any better! Thanks for watching!

[@zippy4185]

Really nice review, thank you!

[@DaveOffGrid]

Awesome review Jeff! What's the weight on this bad boy? I'm still testing out my 3F UL Gear pack that I got for around the same price. Not framed though.

[@DoseofDirt]

Weight is a draw back. Given the hauling power, this one comes in with the weight of a Clydesdale at about 5lbs. 😬 But, the framing, padding, and overall comfort make it carry well. Definitely not a UL pack! I picked up a 3f UL pack as well. Looking forward to your thoughts on it!

[@SmokeytheJeep]

Indeed, that’s been my big holdback from these packs. The pricing and features are great, but they are far too heavy.

[@juliomb1]

This was my first pack. Loved it but moved on to lighter packs.

[@DoseofDirt]

This is a fantastic first pack! Nice that you can get such quality without breaking the bank! Yes, I usually use something lighter now as well, but for those gear heavy trips with kids or dogs, this will get some use! Thanks for watching!

[@ChrisJackson-f8t]

Did you mention weight ? Or did I miss it?

[@movemorenowjames]

Great looking pack for a good looking price 👀✅

[@DoseofDirt]

Yessir!

[@marcelw6440]

The fact that they're willing to exchange an entire pack for some defective toggles says a lot imo. I had committed to buying this pack, but after your review I couldn't possibly feel like I made a bad purchase.

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Marcel! Ya, the company has been fantastic and that's honestly the first issue I've had on any of their products. Teton Sports definitely has me as a fan! Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to leave a comment!

[@N7Tigger]

Can you tell me, is the sleeping bag compartment at the bottom supposed to have a gap on each side where the zipper does not connect?

[@DoseofDirt]

Yes! That's how it's made. It is a little frustrating because you can have gear slip down. I've started just leaving it unzipped all the time and use it as one huge pocket.

[@JCrozier1]

Is there a difference between the 4000 and the one that is just called a 65L pack? similar money is one an older style or something? I appreciate your breakdown of the pack. thanks

[@darinadams5123]

Very helpfull thanks

[@bentonw2228]

Have you ever tried the naturehike backpack? I just ordered one…

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Benton! I have not tried a Naturehike pack before and honestly haven't heard a ton about them. Would love to know what you think of it after you've had a chance to use it! Thanks so much for watching!

[@adang9948]

Is this the 2022 version and if it is do you know the differences between the 2021 version ?

[@DoseofDirt]

This is NOT the 2022 version. I think it came out shortly after Teton sent me this pack. I wish I would have gotten the new one to review! From what I can tell, and a comment from one other person. the main differences are: 1. 2022 has hip belt pockets (awesome!) 2. 2022 has a large zippered pocket on the back instead of the little mesh pocket. Since the little mesh pocket felt pretty much useless, I think this is an improvement. But I would still prefer to have a larger stretchy mesh pocket to stuff extra layers, etc. into. But that's personal preference. 3. It doesn't come with straps on the top, but it does have loops where you could attach something if you have your own straps or paracord Otherwise looks pretty similar and I would think it is still an awesome pack!

[@danielgerrick5153]

I have the explorer 4000 75 liter and absolutely love it. , but have been thinking of switching to a smaller one. Thanks for the video

[@DoseofDirt]

Thanks, Daniel! Ya, I was looking at that 75! You must be able to fit a TON of gear in that pack! Teton Sports makes great stuff! Thanks for watching!!

[@timross5324]

How much difference would you say the 55 versus the 65 . This will be my first pack and don’t want to over pack .

[@timross5324]

Sorry those are the scout models not this one

[@cwesley2005]

I really love this pack but if you arent 6’0 or taller it just doesn’t fit well

[@heatherfeather_73]

how about how heavy the pack is, empty? I agree with you on the likes and dislikes, but it is heavy empty

[@JTGoirish]

Great review! Already bought one, and was mostly just looking for an explanation of how all the various features worked before my first trip in a few weeks. What was the accessory hip pocket you bought for it?

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Jeff! This is a great pack! I just went to get the link on amazon and see that now they are only selling it WITH a small pack (which is super annoying). This is the link to the backpack with the hip belt pocket, but I can't find the hip belt pocket on it's own anywhere: amzn.to/3KNfN10 This one from GG seems similar but not sure if the attachments are secure: www.gossamergear.com/products/hipbelt-pocket Now I'm going to have to find a new hip belt pocket to try out! Ugh!

[@mattlambert1409]

How did you attach your side pocket to the padded side strap?

[@DoseofDirt]

Hey Matt, the side pocket has some snap/velcro straps on the inside that easily go through some daisy-chain-type straps on the hip belt. it's like Teton put those loops there know thing people would want to attach something, but they just didn't want to put the pocket on themselves. You can see the straps on the hip belt pocket in one of the pictures on the amazon listing here: amzn.to/3PaaYjZ Hope that helps!

[@jimbojones6169]

Great review…. however very happy with my Osprey Aether plus 70. 🥾

[@DoseofDirt]

The features on the Aether 70 are pretty incredible. I think that's why I struggled with a few features of this Teton Sports pack (trekking pole storage, stretchy mesh pocket, missing hip belt pockets, etc.). My Aether 70 ag is a beast and I love it! You have good taste in packs! 😆

[@jimbojones6169]

@@DoseofDirt i watched your review on the Osprey. My model doesn’t have the separate bladder section. I use 2 750 ml water bottles. Everything on it is roses 🌹 huge upgrade from my old Amazon special one.

[@DoseofDirt]

@@jimbojones6169 Ya, I rarely use a bladder anymore either. I feel obligated to point it out when I do a review, but I'm all about the bottles!

[@jayinla228]

Great video, is this safe to wash in the washer on cold?

[@HydroTiger]

How do you use the bottom two loops on the pack?

[@Chris-qr7hc]

How do I get that bear spray holder?

[@LETSGETUTILIZED316]

Im buying this pack today on their website. Thank you for the review. For your rapport tell them about this comment because im not kidding. I literally got paid today and am buying this backpack.

[@pofwiwice]

How'd it work out? Would you recommend it for a beginner?

[@LETSGETUTILIZED316]

@@pofwiwice its a great pack.