The KEY to Great Sleep Outdoors

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Big Agnes Q-Core: geni.us/FzWO Nemo Tensor Insulated (new version): geni.us/PzoR S2S Ether Light: geni.us/NmXVe68 Zenbivy Light Bed: geni.us/5319bg Nemo Fillo: geni.us/JGBYwtT Therm-a-rest Compressible Pillow: geni.us/f502Zo0 S2S Aeros Premium Pillow: geni.us/QXjQ

[@lordgarion514]

Never heard of that geni site, and I'm damn sure not clicking a link that takes me to Amazon, where I have my CC on file. It only got a 62.2% from scam-detector. That's not bad at all, but not good enough. You should include straight Amazon links as well.

[@ต่อสกุลสุนทรกรัญ-ฐ8ฝ]

Pa

[@120Stevo]

Has your gear preferences from this video changed over 2 years? Great video.

[@cameronpatrick7943]

I appreciate you getting to the point and not making this video 30 mins. Great stuff.

[@himabimdimwim]

This!

[@cestmoi7368]

Hear here - thank you :)

[@mandelaeffect1111]

Still a long commercial. 🤣 Just kidding 👋👍

[@MLoms]

Exactly

[@kateapple1]

The whole video was an ad… He could at least claim that he was an affiliate or sponsored by these companies..

[@matthewb.7172]

One very important aspect to consider when backpacking with others: noise. I can’t believe how LOUD most of these pads are these days. My dad kept me up all night because every time he adjusted, it sounded like a clown was making me a balloon animal.

[@Preston241]

I guffawed at the imagery. Thank you for that.

[@paulcorbett2254]

I’ve slept on sleeping pads, blow up mattresses, and many others. But the best sleep for me personally that I have ever had was literally sleeping right in the dirt under a tarp with a wool blanket.

[@marv8481]

Oh gosh yes. I do not understand why people buy those pads. They’re more noisy then you trying to open up a bag of chips in the middle of the night as a kid while everyones sleeping. I’ve always wondered how people can sleep on those pads when every breath sounds like you just swiped a foil ballon with sand paper, all to get you 1/2in off the ground.

[@pattybanzhof]

😂😂😂

[@drakirger4297]

True

[@ChrisLegg17]

Too many comments now that nobody will see this, but here's something that few (or nobody) mentions, but is worth its weight - change ALL your clothes before laying down! The perspiration inside the fabric of your clothes (even if it seems totally dry) somehow will keep you awake. But if you put on all fresh dry sleep clothes, you'll feel like a brand new chicken, fuzzy and cozy to sleep the whole night. It's literally the single most thing that has changed my camping experiences in the last few years.

[@kiralycsavo0]

Unless you wear woolen underwear for sleeping like. I could literally be in the same thing day and night for a week without it getting gross. Wool clothing is magic. The two models I liked a lot were the Devold Duo Active (which is an 80-20 merino-polyamide blend) or the Decathlon woolen long-arm undershirt (which is 100% wool and very well priced).

[@ChrisLegg17]

@@kiralycsavo0 Maybe. But I kinda feel like you'd still have to hang it out to dry before bed. The point is that the moisture feeling is what makes you uncomfortable. Not that it makes you cold or anything, it's hard to explain exactly. There's just something about 100% pure dry clothing on you when you tuck in for the night that makes you sleep like a baby.

[@greer2402]

Plus your clothes won't smell like bed

[@Guillermo-ym5yn]

Was told 55 years ago at a boyscout camp!

[@oakmaiden2133]

I rinse off with a bit of water and put on my jammies. Found a packable down quilt x 2 for my bed. Sewed on ties where needed. Also thrifted a king size sheet and made a light weight sleep sack. Pack accordingly.

[@romeobenvolio4145]

For a ~7 minute video, this was densely-packed with information. I appreciate you keeping the value of your viewer's time in mind. Great video - I'll be getting a thicker pad and better pillow myself. Might even start substituting a few things so I can bring my pillow from home.

[@bastogne315]

If you masturbate well, sleep in the backcountry should not be a problem.

[@romeobenvolio4145]

@@bastogne315 thank you for that nugget of information

[@jonbassett8023]

@@bastogne315 < moron.

[@bastogne315]

@@romeobenvolio4145 welcum..

[@rantg]

and also pretty stupid because he does not care about size, then just bring your whole bed with you

[@sunbornvistoso]

A PILLOW! Not a rolled up jacket or the end of the backpack, but a dedicated pillow. Everything after that seems secondary. Even my most ultralight kit includes a comfy pillow. Maybe for one night you can get away without it but bad sleep adds up fast. Thank you for summarizing in minutes what it took me 25 years of backpacking to truly understand. I try to be ultra minimalist in every other respect, but to me the pillow is the bare minimum.

[@yourTuBaer]

I actually sleep better with a rolled up jacket than with any small pillow. It really depends on the person.

[@Gigachild]

@@yourTuBaer Same. but I'm not very picky on that aspect of comfortability. Ultimately warmth and mosquito defense are the non-negotiables for me.

[@GregoryVeizades]

Agreed. Got an Exped mega and never looked back. Sleep so soundly.

[@remieferreirasr3352]

Well stated! I remember when I first was going light I had many of sleepless nights but soon learned it doesn’t matter how light u get if u don’t sleep your not going far the next day. Ultralight on my gear BUT PURE COMFORT on my sleep system👍

[@jeremywhitesell2688]

I slept on a concrete floor in a military barracks with only a rolled up jacket as a pillow. So bottom line if it works.

[@liamfinnegan8085]

One of the roughest parts of working as a wildland firefighter is getting a good night's rest. You made so many great points it actually relieved some of my anxieties for next season. Thank you for the recommendations, I know that gear is going to bring me some much needed rest.

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

I’m glad it’s helpful!

[@hermitcard4494]

REST, not sleep. As a lone camper I agree, I prefer to rest and be aware and ready to react.

[@lapdogg]

As someone who lives in an area that deals with wild fires frequently, thanks for doing what you do! It’s got to be one of the hardest jobs ever and to try to do it without proper rest between shifts must be horrible. You and your fellow wildland fire fighters are much appreciated. 💕

[@liamfinnegan8085]

@@lapdogg thank you for your kind words and support!

[@Deontjie]

The speaker can sleep on his beard.....

[@gte717v]

I like how you described your journey towards good sleep. For me, it led me to a hammock-based system. It’s not for everyone, but once I learned the skills needed and figured it out, it’s the best sleep I’ve ever gotten outdoors. It really does make all the difference.

[@z6t6z6d]

Same here. For me it's a bridge hammock. Combining that with a good fitting underquilt (Warbonnet Ridgerunner and Lynx) makes the best solution for me. No sleeping mat needed. Add a big tarp with doors and you are good to go for every weather condition.

[@khomikoow5994]

@@z6t6z6d what hammock and quilt do you use?

Well i have been thinking about getting q hammock for a long time but... I find a big problem that there are many places where you can't put the hammock. In some places very high there are not trees

[@gte717v]

@ yeah. As great as they are, hammocks aren’t a fit for all situations. But when they are, oh man!

[@max_mittler]

do you live in bear territory? I want to sleep in a hammock but always think hmm a bear could technically just come right up to me and take a bite

[@stephenkohler3472]

Agreed. Also try a sleeping bag liner. It makes a HUGE difference in comfort. It acts like a base layer and keeps the cold, slick sleeping bag material off your skin. Makes it feel like your sleeping in cozy sheets instead of a ski coat burrito.

[@williewonka6694]

Yes, I have several wool blankets of various weights. I just pick an appropriate weighted blanket to put inside the bag. With wool base layer, cap, gloves and socks I sleep comfortably in any weather, including winter camp below 0F.

[@jonbassett8023]

My Mountain Hardware bag is silky soft and INSTANTLY warm where ever my skin touches it. No liner needed at all!! I LOVE my sleepinj bag!!

[@Ian-Builder_of_Things]

A silk liner helps with turning in the bag as it slides way better than the base layer you wear.

[@Barrrt]

Like for the 'ski coat burrito'

[@joel.ha.]

​@Willie Wonka I'm shocked you can sleep with all that on!! I cannot sleep with more than a pair of boxers, yes even at subzero in the rockies at 12,000ft in January. In my hammock. In a summer sleeping bag 😂 I think something is wrong with me, I'm cold until I confine myself into a sleeping bag. Then it's sweat city

[@thaisplouvier5403]

1:00 thick + wide nemo tensor : warm + comfy seattosummit ether light : best compromise between warmth and comfort q-core slx : most comfy but colder 2:30 quilt > sleeping bag bc you can move around zenbivy 7L sleep system : sheet + quilt + pillow holder + loops to hold the quilt in place 4:40 pillow : nemo fillo

[@Red-Yo]

22 about to be homeless but still want to do good and achieve in life so watching you’re videos to learn how to survive the best I can so I can still work hard and get after it no mater what. Thanks man you help all sorts of people in all deferent times of need in there life. You should be proud.

[@RKairos]

How are you doing now brother?

[@iamrubenmes]

Yes, you doing okay?

[@nicoarteaga4430]

How are you?

[@TonyM540]

Good luck, hope things get better for you. Best wishes from Ireland.

[@TheSizzleBeans]

I was in the same boat. Supported accomodations are everywhere. Go to your town hall and get into one. Better than sleeping outside, unless you have the money or the means to gather good enough recourses. Six months in the supported accomodation will give you time to find work, set up a buissness or just simply apply for job seekers and live comfortably should you choose not to spend it on booze or drugs. You do not need them.

[@Lorondos]

The other thing I learnt, is that going an extra size up (if it is an option) is also a good idea if you are an active or wide sleeper when it comes to sleeping bags/quilts, seems completely obvious but I have always gone for the smallest size possible to save on weight and cost, only to learn that my sleep always seems to be crap.

Yeah good tip, nowadays i dont mind getting1 more kilo or even more if it will mean a better sleep

[@jlt131]

this can be good and bad - if you are in cold weather or are a person that is just generally cold at night, extra room in your sleeping bag means more space your body heat has to warm up. just something to keep in mind! but personally i'd rather have the freedom to toss and turn and be slightly cold than to be hot and mummified :D

[@ainabexell8685]

I came here to say this. I'm a side sleeper but love my sleeping bag, it's my dad's old sleeping bag and he's a good 30cm taller than me, so the bag is big enough for my side sleeping tendencies and still feel warm and cozy during those -10c camping nights!

[@SlideIX]

Almost 2 decades in the military and this video has taught me a few things. It’s not completely compatible with some of the things I have to do while on exercise or OP’s but it does give some useful information and specific items for me to look into

[@DosJof5118]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I bikepack and I'm also, like you, a side sleeper. And I have noticed the very same issues you did with traditional sleep systems. I'm currently using a Sierra Designs Backcountry Bed which is a cross of a sleeping bag and a quilt and find it works for me. But a larger thicker pad is definitely on my shopping list along with a better pillow. Thanks again for a well-thought-out video.

[@stellviahohenheim]

Consoooom more

[@cyclingsalmon]

It's going to be quite hard to adopt this huge and bulky quilt solution to bikepacking, don't you think? I mean, it's about twice as big as my cheap 2p tent

[@jonnykidnap4082]

@@cyclingsalmon Thought the same also this kit will cost u 300€ or something. My last bike pack I did (4 weeks) with a simple Therma-Rest (40€) a ALDI Sleepingbag (40€) and a broken self inflating pillow (20€) that wont stop inflating. whole cost ~100€ in total and I would not say may sleep quality was an issue. But I have to say that I am tall and skinny side sleeper, I like hard matresses and beeing in Sleepingbag is quite comfy.

[@NEKORID]

bikepacking is by far the most demanding when it comes to size and weight, so the sleeping system proposed here is not an option at all. In my experience, the NeoAir X Lite has been great so far (as long as you keep all punctures fixed), but I have to say, i'm a skinny 180cm guy. I can fully side sleep and keep my arms in the entire night. Either way, I've found that after a few weeks my back will start asking for a bed, but I think we can't expect less after all that time sleeping outdoors. For long haul trips (8 months or so), I use a nice liner (Sea to Summit Reactor Extreme) which provides great comfort. Also, I stretch before sleep and get into the liner with as few clothes as possible.

[@rosameijering5161]

@@jonnykidnap4082 yes but was it also in the snow/rain/wind/winter? In summer almost everything is possible

[@blueeyeswhitedragon9839]

After approximately 30 years of camping in various forms, seasons and styles, l agree with everything you are saying, having learned the hard way through experience. As l grew older, sleep became even more elusive so l added one more piece to my camp bedding. I was always responsible for not only my sleep systems, but of my companions, wife and children so a simple and inexpensive solution to comfortable sleep was the addition of a simple fleece blanket to everything you mentioned in the video. The fleece blankets are inexpensive, can be purchased almost anywhere, are often made from recycled plastic bottles, and add that warm feeling of being home, in your own bed. They are also easily washed and compactable. Simple solution to a comfortable sleep in the bush.

[@jayflight5351]

Yes! Fleece blankets are the best

[@jlt131]

i haven't tried a fleece one, but sometimes costco sells these nice down ones that are super packable and now go everywhere with me!

[@blueeyeswhitedragon9839]

@@jlt131 :- Actually l also have a fleece blanket from Costco...l call it my "comfort blanket" and take it with me when l do overnighters when visiting family.

[@dellalderman8011]

Spot on!!!! Been doing this for years

[@MrQuestful]

I think it’s fascinating that we can have the same challenges but come to different conclusions. I had a Big Agnes q-core for years, it worked quite well for most applications, but when I started bikepacking across the US I came across a problem: gnarly spiked items that would deflate my pad. From goat weed to burrs I found myself battling a flat air pad in the middle of the night more often than I liked, and ended up changing my pad for one of those close cell foam pads. While it wasn’t nearly as thick, it was very warm, and I learned that I could make a very comfortable bed if I padded my sleeping area with pine needles or leaves.

[@borjesvensson8661]

If you have the chance try padding it with about 1metre/1 yard long birch or similar saplings or spruce branches. Layed out in strings with the new layers tips halfway on top of the previous layers roots. Takes some time and only dooable with landowners permission but was how people slept warm outdoor here in scandinavia even in winter and still how the swedish army does it. A reinder hide is the ultimate sleeping mat on top but they do not like beeing directly on the ground, spread hairs and are bulky. Only about 120cm/4feet so you need 2 unless you rest your head on top of the backpack and the feet on top of the shoes or clothes.

[@petesig93]

In the Australian outback, where similar spines were a risk, we carried a separate closed-cell foam matt each, to go underneath our tent floor. After all, those same spines going through your tent floor are going to create LOTS of problems in future. WE had no punctures in our Exped mattresses.

[@benjaminthomas6585]

@@petesig93 We used that system 50 years ago and still do

[@DariusFLX]

You put into words all the many little things that annoyed me when I was trying to sleep. Thank you SO much for finding solutions AND sharing them!

[@trustbuster23]

Good info. I found switching to a quilt made a huge difference, as did switching to a self-inflating pad. They just seem to handle side-sleeping a bit better. And here is a little tip, particularly for big guys that struggle with any camp pillow. You need a pillow high enough that your head stays in a straight line with your spine if you sleep on your side. That is just an anatomical fact, there is no getting around it. So no camp pillow you will be willing to take backpacking will ever be high enough on its own. But you can make a crappy pillow out of your spare clothes, then put a more comfortable pillow like the small therm-a-rest on top of that thing, and voila, you have a pillow that is high enough to be comfortable. It doesn't matter that the lower pillow is crappy if the one above it is comfortable.

[@RJ-ek7ov]

Thank you addressing being a side sleeper. My hips and back are always achy after camping.

[@gary7vn]

Dig a hip hole.

[@elliefuller7278]

Finally a camping video that has good cuts, interesting personality and I can watch without skipping at all

[@Purpleninja8523]

Sleeping in a hammock has given me the best sleep over any sort of tent. With a hammock you don't have to try and negate the cold ground if you just have a pad to flatten out the bottom and a sleeping bag to curl up in, that's optimal imo. Of course if you have no trees around you, youre sort of out of luck. Edit: Since sleeping in a tent with my gf, I miss sleeping in a hammock. I tend to get really hot and stuffy with the cover over it. I dont have a blow up pad or anything but feel like its necessary to get any decent sleep in tents. Didnt expect my comment to get this attention.

[@troyspain7073]

Agree with hammock, but 12yrs Army Ranger I can sleep anywhere.

[@caiofernando]

A hammock is a perfect solution for warmer places. But can you use it in cold weather?

[@stampede963]

@@caiofernando Absolutely, you buy a down under quilt and you can sleep down to 0°. I sleep in a Warbonnet black bird XLC hammock and I bought the Warbonnet wookie under quilt . I’ve never been so comfortable in all my life

[@stampede963]

If you are car camping, you can build yourself some turtle dog stands. There are lots of KZbin videos on using them. I made four of those stands fairly easily and I sleep on the beach all the time in my hammock with two turtle dog stands. Just search for them on KZbin

[@caiofernando]

@@stampede963 Being from Brazil, I had never heard of "under quilt" in my life until yesterday. I love hammocks, and now I know they're even more versatile than I thought.

[@totallyunmemorable]

I think I may have invented the air pillow. Back in the late Eighties I hiked the Appalachian trail, and had by that time enough experience to know that you go light or you don't go. So I sewed a small pillow case (maybe 8x12) with an opening just big enough to squeeze in a bladder from a boxed wine container. Come bedtime I'd blow it up and throw my jacket over it (mainly to quiet the noise of the bag). It worked pretty well, and served as a second, emergency water container (in case the primary one got a puncture. Wine bladders also are great for fetching your nightly water supply. It too needs a protective (nylon) cover.

[@briantheminer]

Great if you have a fortune to spend. I’ve always used a sleeping bag unzipped like a quilt, except if I’m out in winter, best of both worlds then . One thing for a pillow, a home cushion in a vacuum bag, the pump is tiny to pack it back up too.

[@whitepolpot]

yeah, this video felt like a man that cannot enjoy anything unless he'll get himself $1000 worth of equipment

[@jennwang9666]

It sounds like he goes back country very often, in which case why not spend a bit more to ensure you’re enjoying your time?

[@jbnsn13]

Sleeping bags usually are much (!) better insulated on the top part than on the part thats underneath you when you sleep in it zipped up. so when you unzip it and use it like a quilt you might get cold unter the part of the sleeping bag that´s not well insulated

[@federubio2519]

@@jennwang9666 cause some people can't

[@SugarFreeTargets]

What really helped me is having a soft/natural fabric between the cold and clammy nylon or polyesters from my pad and sleeping bag. I've used a bed sheet sewn into a sleeping bag and I've used a yak wool blanket which feels pretty nice. I've also ditched the inflatable pillows and just stuff my puffy jacket in my neck gaiter for a quick pillow.

[@josvera4170]

I normally sleep with +2 pillows in my house but for the outdoors the clothes-pillow always works for me

[@lh3540]

i cut a cheap walmart pillow in half, sewed it up, and also stuff in a wool gaiter

[@DaemonViews]

I have tried multiple fancy pillows mentioned here and they would take a night hike from under my head every time. Forgot mine last time and used my puffy and a few clothes rolled in the puffy and because of the weight they stayed in place and it was actually the most comfortable because of that.

[@Veldtian1]

For me it's the ample nape of a female Bigfoot's neck or nothing for a great backwoods slumber.

[@JH-fk8ow]

those natural silk sleeping bag sheets/liners feel amazing, super lightweight and compact aswell. in warm summer night you dont even need the bag, just the sheet.

[@forestwatcher19]

Thank you!!! Your comments about the width and thickness of the pad make me realize this is why I've been struggling to get a good night's sleep while camping. I feel relieved that I'm not the only one who can't sleep on a thin/narrow pad!

[@dj_wilson]

Nothing beats an informative yet concise video like this! Thank you! 100% fully agree with your endorsement of the Fillo. Changed my sleeping game. I have two versions and got one for my wife. I’m now likely going to pull the trigger on the zen bivy core sheet and Big Agnes mattress. Time to pass my NeoAir Xtherm on to a younger camper

[@jamietratalos1261]

What version of the Fillo did you find worked best? - they seem to do many different sizes

[@dj_wilson]

@@jamietratalos1261 The two I own are the standard Fillo and the Elite. The standard is great for general use camping and weekend backpacking. I reserve the Elite only for longer backpacking treks where I'm trying to shave every ounce I can spare. It's great for that, but sacrifices some comfort due to its size and fill. I haven't tried their Luxury or King versions; I'm sure they're likely more comfortable though likely add bulk and weight

[@igorbondarev5226]

I've been into camping for 8 years. The points you presented in this video are exactly spot on! I agree with you 100%. The only thing I didn't use is a quilt + sheet, I just used bigger sleeping bags

[@lapdogg]

Honestly a quality pillow is the key to a goodnight sleep anywhere and I’m glad you brought that up. As someone who has broken their neck in 2 different places I’ve been picky about pillows since then and it’s been like a quest to find the best pillow I can regardless of where I lay my head. I do plan on doing a lot more camping starting at the end of this month and I’ve been searching for the right gear to be able to get the best out of my adventures so I am so glad I stumbled across your video. I also like the idea of using a quilt vs a sleeping bag because I am a side sleeper as well and like to kick up my knee, which my old Marine Corps issue sleeping bag doesn’t really allow for. I still use it for now but things might change after seeing this really useful video. Thanks for the excellent video with quality, concise information. 👍👍

[@AB_pilot]

Very good option for sidesleepers - sleeping pad for a hammock. It has "ears" to put arms-legs on it, which can also be bent to keep warmth at the sides. Klymit hammock V is a great example

[@rexmundi5180]

Haven tents are awesome as well

[@garrycollins3415]

Nailed it. A couple of years ago I resigned myself to carrying the extra weight of a thick and wide pad. Invest in sleep.

[@novacolonel5287]

Good points, and I really appreciate that you spent zero seconds promoting yourself as a person. With your hulking stature and legendary beard, you could constantly boast, but you don't. Increases your credibility manyfold.

[@fazole]

Once I got a sleeping bag with a quilt option, it changed everything. I have a thick, wide pad too and I am able to move around, which was impossible in a mummy bag. My wife, on the other hand, loves to sleep wrapped up in a cocoon. The downside is the pad is bulkier and heavier, but I now use an external frame pack and that carries weight MUCH better than an internal frame, imo.

[@TheFrontyer]

Does not all sleeping bags have that?

[@archi-mendel]

For the guy who prefers winter hikes even more than summer ones, warmth is a key for me. After I've got myself Therm-a-rest Xtherm pad and TNF Inferno -28C sleeping bag, I can say I've reached the level of comfort which allows me to sleep 9-10 hours straight in temperatures down to -20C in my underwear only. "Going outside" (for pee) almost naked in -20C and be confident that I am going to feel warm and cozy 10 seconds after I jump bag to my sleeping bag is priceless. As of the pillow - stuff sack still works perfectly for me (I've tried inflatable pillow and it is okay, but not in winter time definitely).

[@jameson1239]

I’ve found using a fleece jacket or pair on long under wear wrapped around the inflatable pillow helps keep it warm

[@garethbond1]

I use an oversized sleeping bag too, not tried a quilt, but it sits in between a normal bag and a quilt. Works for me.

[@johnwhite-q7s]

I’ve been backpacking since i was a kid and i did a stint in the marines. Never had any trouble sleeping in the field. It’s something i often look forward to now that i live in the city

[@cowpuddles4851]

Exactly. Save the pads for the panties and who really needs a tent? Just a good bag and poncho liner is really all that’s needed. I sure don’t miss carrying all that weight and my armor plates, though!

[@josephkerking8638]

Something I've found that's worked really great for me, is I'll put my inflatable pad INSIDE my sleeping bag. I use a Klymit Static V and some Kelty bag I can't remember the name of, and putting the pad inside the bag made a world of difference. I'm a very active sleeper that tosses and turns, so my mattress pad would always slip out from underneath me, but my method completely eliminates this issue. I'll have to try that pillow you recommended. Right now I use a generic camping pillow that compresses down pretty small, but I swapped out the stuffing with some from a "squishmallow" (a type of stuffed animal with a proprietary stuffing that's very, very dense but still soft and malleable). The stuffing is like halfway between memory foam and a bean bag in consistency, and it's been super great (though it's much too warm for summer nights).

[@hisnameisiam808]

The best compressible pillow is the my pillow travel pillow. The patented fill can be compressed and is very comfy and when adjusted the fill actually stays in place. Think of having a shredded memory foam mattress in your pillow. Love them!

[@nateearle844]

I went through the exact same progression. Started with a closed cell pad which led to back, hip, and knee pain. Tried my buddies inflatable and slept awesome. Went with a quilt for versatility... an improvement both in sleep and weight savings. Then discovered wide pads for keeping my arms from falling... another game changer. I've stopped short of the zen bivy and fancy pillows as adding more crap is not in the cards. I love my solid 8 hours in the backcountry.

[@Borderlynx]

In addition, I also recommend a sleeping mask and earplugs. Something that makes it darker as you're drifting off that can easily be shed the moment you need to see; could be a mask (like I use at home) or something like a hoodie (which I wear back to front while sleeping camping. Earplugs are a quality of life thing because when I'm out and about I'm much more alert, so the slightest noise is a _oh crap, is there something out there?!_ reaction. Eventually I might get so paranoid that I have to check outside (hint: on a Scottish island, there's nothing that can get you aside from the midges) and be assured that no, there definitely isn't anything to worry about. Earplugs reduce the worry of those noises _just_ on the periphery of hearing, which makes it ever so much easier to get to sleep.

[@vale.antoni]

I've slept outside in many remote locations (albeit neither were particularly hostile wildernesses, and only in a single country), but the thing I have found over the 15 years I've been doing it is that apart from the occasional crickets, the countryside is virtually mute at night; but it might might have something to do with the fact that I've also been sleeping in a bedroom with window view to an arterial road, so my night time audio threshold has creeped way up over the year.

[@Borderlynx]

@@vale.antoni aye, I think that's my problem, my ear is used to noise, so the absence of it sets it on edge desperately trying to parse out _anything_. With so little info to work off, it misinterprets innocuous things like "wind in grass" as "maybe there's a sheep coming down by the tents. Maybe. Just *maybe*. Are you sure it isn't? Maybe it is actually out there" etc etc

[@stellviahohenheim]

Imagine going into the wilderness to sleep lol

[@KBinturong]

That the sound of nature that doze me off

[@krystofcisar469]

Sure.. Mask and earplugs so anyone could sneak to you a go through your stuff

[@scoutmasteroutdoors7830]

This video transformed my camping life. I made immediate changes starting with ditching my sleeping bag in place of a regular bed sheet on my inflatable pad, a blanket, and a decent pillow. As I upgrade my gear, sleeping while camping has improved measurably. Thank you for breaking this down so effectively!

[@ItsGoodintheWoods]

Just got my new Nemo insulated from a warranty claim. Real comfortable pad. For years and years I used a stuff sack stuffed with my spare clothes,, I have since upgraded, and you are not wrong. A pillow is very important. Great video

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

A pillow is such a small thing but it makes a big difference. Thanks for watching

[@jergarmar]

Dang, that video was amazing! You mentioned specific products, you described what worked for you specifically, but discussed it in a way that I think anyone can put into practice, when putting together an outdoor sleep system. Can't wait to try this out!

[@arturgajewskiphotog]

It kills me to see people struggle with sleeping bags when they could use them as quilts. Just unzip the sleeping bag, put your feet in the warm end of the bag and place the backside of the sleeping bag on top of you. You don't need expensive quilts, you can use sleeping back as 2-in-1 solution.

[@kiiturii]

my first ever night in a forest in the military I did exactly this. I had no idea how bad it felt to sleep in a sleeping bag so had to come up with a solution on the spot

[@christopherl1767]

This is a really great suggestion - sleeping bags coming with zippers! For quite cold weather (like getting down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit / 0 degrees Celsius or slightly below), what I do is buy two sleeping bags (one left-side zipped, the other right-side zipped), and then zip them together into one huge sleeping bag. That way I don't have cold air coming in, or my limbs accidentally getting out of the unzipped bag, but still have a comfy sleeping bag that isn't constrictive. I also found I got really cold feet, so I put my feet inside a hoodie (ie, where your body would go into the hoodie), and it kept my feet warm (along with socks, obviously). Also, using a blanket underneath your self-inflating mattress, and on top of it, to reduce your warmth being sucked into the ground (obviously this only works when in a camp ground, not overnights when hiking, due to weight). For some crazy reason, my family thinks it's fun to go camping in cold weather, so I've learnt some things.

[@ItsAsparageese]

For my fellow unhoused people who learn from these videos but contrive cheap/alternative gear: 1. Fuzzy blankets are more lightweight/compact relative to the warmth you get from them when compared to average non-fuzzy blankets, & also when used underneath you they keep you from feeling annoying dirt/debris against your skin. 2. A spare hoodie is great to have (can tie it around your waist or otherwise tie it to things so it doesn't take much inventory space) because you can wear a primary hoodie while using the secondary one as a pillow, a face covering when sleeping during the day or in serious cold, a warm wrap for your feet (stick 'em in the sleeves!), a light moisture shield over your stuff, a knee pillow, or tie it into an extra bag for holding things, among many other uses. 3. If you're trying to sleep okay at night in an urban environment, cardboard & free newspapers aren't just stereotypes, they actually work for insulating you from the ground. Don't be afraid to look like a cliche, trust me, once you try these you'll wish you'd used them sooner. Also rolled up free newspapers inside a spare shirt can make a half decent pillow. Very belated edit: Also, concrete absorbs a lot of heat from sun during the day in warm enough seasons/areas, so it can be a nice thermal bank at night. Sure grass is a little softer but all that soil & moisture transmits cold very effectively. If you're using a thin bedroll anyway it may be worth feeling some cement for a moment to see if it's warm & setting up on that instead, it's usually not all that much harder (compared to dirt in areas I've been in anyway) & you might sleep a good deal warmer for it.

[@user-tz9jh6pv2j]

For anyone unhoused, don't even bother with these videos. It's mostly for glamorous weekend warrior types from cities and have too much money. Want REAL suggestions that is also affordable? Look for videos from thru-hikers who are on the trail all year round. They cut down on the gimmicks and also use what's on their backs. Personally, I have used all these sleeping pads and fancy things, but after a couple months of "roughing" it, I mostly just have my tent, a hoody, and a couple extra blankets under me and my bag as a pillow. It's cheap, works pretty damn well, and not at all fidgety like all this high tech stuff. Unless you need to stay light because you're going on some extreme hikes, none of this ultralight expensive stuff is necessary

[@ItsAsparageese]

@@user-tz9jh6pv2j I agree yeah. I think videos about the high-tech stuff can be great inspiration for brainstorming, and _rarely_ a piece of particular gear may be worth investing in depending on one's resources and exact circumstances, but yeah in general the hobbyists with fancy gear live in a whole different world from those who are outdoors for lack of safer options, right there with ya

[@HiThere-ig5iz]

​@@user-tz9jh6pv2jThank you, I was gonna point out how unnecessary all the purchases in this video are. I suppose if you're truly backpacking, these things are a bit more compact and lightweight compared to fuzzy blankets stuffed in a backpack but as long as your pack is big enough and you're not backpacking for a month

[@NoahSpurrier]

Yup. This video should have been titled, “How to be a wuss outdoors”.

[@ItsAsparageese]

@@NoahSpurrier I don't think there's anything especially virtuous about subjecting oneself to discomfort without a practical reason. Nothing wrong with people harmlessly accommodating their own preferences. Some people may have pain conditions or other pragmatic reasons as well

[@derbjornmachtdiemusik23]

WOW! It feels like you're the first outdoor buff to talk honestly about comfortable sleep - I too need to have one knee up - otherwise I get back pains... and I can imagine there are way more people out there who feel the same. This is video is really helpful, thank you!

[@Vanadium]

maybe because others sleep totally different? I mean I watched the whole video but you know what? I dont move in sleep and I actually sleep like I am in a coffin so on my back and arms and hands folded , I laugh at pillows since I was a child. The interesting thing is the quill but that is it but then again if I sleep only under the stars this would worse then a sleeping bag :D

[@username-mc7jw]

Probably the best video I have seen covering sleep systems. After a couple years of trying out things on my own, I've settled in on a Nemo Tensor wide pad, Enlightened Equipment quilt, Therm-a-Rest Synergy Luxe Mattress Sheet, and a Therm-a-Rest Compressible pillow. Then I stumbled across your video. I was SO close to your exact recommended setup! I only missed it by a Zenbivy sheet... I can attest to your setup; it works! I choose to carry the extra weight in exchange for a good night's sleep. As for the Compressible pillow losing loft - what I do to combat that is toss it in the dryer for 20 minutes or so (no heat) every so often. That restores its fluff in a BIG way, and then I store it unrolled. I only roll it right before I pack it, and unroll it as soon as my tent is set up. I'm kinda bummed that Therm-a-Rest has changed the design of the pillow recently. It used to roll into itself and cinch up like a taco. The newer ones fold in half, and don't appear to have the loft the original one had. The new design is a big fail, in my opinion. Probably explains why the old ones are now selling for 2x their original cost.

[@robertbelli7638]

I use this exact setup, zenbivy + S2S ether light square pad + thermarest compress pillow and a Nemo Fillo on top of that. Slept in 20 degrees for two nights in a row and was warm, comfortable and refreshed in the morning!

[@brzmow]

Hey Robert - do you have the ether light as the long version? (201 cm) cuz i wonder if the big s2s will fit the zenbivy bed though. Thank you in advance!

[@robertbelli7638]

@@brzmow I have the Large version - Large: 78 x 25 x 4 inches and it fits my Zenbivy just fine!

[@Xiellion]

A free and pretty effective alternative to an air mattress is laying down soft needled bows like pine before setting up the tent, it adds a cushion under you and some space for air to insulate

[@jlt131]

Not great for LNT though...

[@onelove2909]

Great tips! Here's mine. I use an identical pillow that I use at home. Not great for saving space, but wrapped in a waterproof sack and tied to the top or bottom of your pack, it's a little inconvenience, but worth it.

[@Jo-tv6sj]

So glad to have found this channel! Nowadays, even though I'm still a young dude, I've found out that I've gotta have a good sleep set up due to developing back issues. I miss my teen years of going on FTX's with nothing but a thin bag and crap mat, but somehow sleeping like a baby the moment I crawled into the hoochie tent. Saw some folks recommending hammocks in the comments, and as a person with anxiety who gets paranoid from noises outside my tent, having that ability to see my surroundings would definitely help! Big bonus for being off the ground and no zipper fumbling required.

[@1519Spring]

The fancier hammocks actually do have a zipper. It's for the zip-on bug netting. That's optional though.

[@tylerddh]

For the best sleep and the lightest weight, go with a hammock and under quilt. Great video, appreciate the rapid pace with good info and visual examples. I'll definitely be watching more!

[@peterdelmonte9832]

I’ve backpacked hundreds of miles in the UK and have almost never camped amongst trees. I’m sure I could if I planned it that way but that’s not how I’ll ever choose routes. I envy those who have the hammock as a choice…but that seems to often be in bear country. I’d never be on foot where there might be bears. I’m sure that’s partly due to living where there’ll never be but…. My sleep system must weigh less than half this guy’s, even when there’s been snow. Tho I’m always a side sleeper at home, I’ve trained myself to use short, narrow everything and to sleep on my back, elbows resting in my shoes…a tip from a US book. It works.

[@tylerddh]

@@peterdelmonte9832 True, there are usually bears about but only black bears and they are basically just large raccoons that run away when yelled at. I have yet to camp in grizzly country, though I'm sure I will eventually, those guys are another story! I've also backpacked a number of miles, I was a field guide for a year and I spent more time in my hammock than I did my real bed. It would feel weird to me to not have trees around! Though I'm sure the scenery in the UK would be wonderful and I'd happily sleep on the ground to experience it! If you have the opportunity to backpack the States don't let the bears scare you away!

[@1519Spring]

​@peterdelmonte9832 back before I switched to hammock camping all the time (using hiking poles called "Trekking treez" where there are no trees), I had trained myself to sleep still and on my back, arms on my chest very similar to as shown in this video. It can be done. Despite being a large tall man, I was comfortable on the regular width pads.

[@nercopolis99]

This is the most common-sense yet never discussed tutorial ever, and it was concise to boot. Bloody brilliant, I'm taking all your advice. The comfort is well worth any extra weight. Mostly, I want to fit on my sleeping pad!!!

[@MegaDoug1979]

Yes!! I was waiting for a review on the Zenbivy Light Bed. Just finished an overnight with the Light Bed 10 and a Nemo Tensor and I was more than warm enough on a 40F night. Super comfortable and definitely packable with the dry sack and compression straps.

[@arob_]

At 30 degrees above the rating I would certainly hope so

[@aa-ron.]

400 bucks for a blanket???? I just zip my sleeping bag up about 2 feet and use it like a quilt with a pocket for my feet…works perfect for me.

[@username40000]

That's some serious money for a blanket though fecking hell

[@brzmow]

Hey Doug - quick question.... since you´ve slept in the light bed 10 on a 40f night - would you say the light bed 25 would be the better pick for those temps. Was it "too warm" at any time? Trying to figure out if i should get the 10 or 25 zenbivy

[@1997Aalisse]

A combo of overhanging tent + hammock + mat + sleeping bag with a hood + airplane pillow that goes around your neck + any sort of a blanket inside of the sleeping bag for added warmth has been the best for me so far, honestly. Update: aparently it's totally suitable for both cold weather and large wildlife, but maybe not for insect/snake ridden places.

[@jlt131]

i'm in bear & cougar territory and prefer sleeping in the hammock so i can see out when there are sounds of prowlers in camp. But I suppose if you're somewhere with things like giant venomous spiders and snakes it might be preferable to be in a tent! I've definitely slept in the hammock in the winter, you just need a warmer bag/blanket setup and make sure that pad or underquilt stays put.

[@1997Aalisse]

@@jlt131 that's really cool info, thank you :)

[@paro2210]

Never had much issues with a simple sleeping bag and some foam padding myself, but I could see how some people would have an issue with it. Interesting video.

[@Joe3pops]

For fall and winter camping under your air mattress spread out a tarp one side waterproof upper the other side shiny reflective. Place the shiny side up so it reflects your body heat back at you. Over top your spacious air mattress place a 1/4 inch foam pad. This will add some more comfort and you are less prone to slide off slippery surface of air mattress while you sleep. Bring an infinity scarf or woolen toque or generous size neck warmer, one only uses for sleeping. Nothing more annoying than having cold nose or ears when you are trying to rest. This comes from 11 years in the infantry. Be well

[@kencochrane8795]

Interesting. As a backpacker for 50 years, thanks for your video. I agree that more room and a better pad help sleeping immensely. The idea of a light down blanket in lieu of a traditional mummy bag is intriguing for mild climates. I would point out that in colder weather a sleeping bag is essential, though a mummy style is not for everyone. For me anyway, staying warm is very important to good sleep. I found that wearing a pile pullover cap helped alot. In later years, I switched over to a light rectangular down bag in lieu of a mummy bag. Lots more room to spread out feet and legs. Also unzips for use as a blanket in milder temperatures. For a pillow, I stuffed my down jacket into a stuff sack, but always covered the nylon sack with a cotton T-shirt. Nylon is too cold and doesn’t absorb any moisture.

[@tomscott1159]

For summer I take a cheap light synthetic down puffy blanket, fold in half lengthwise and sew up across the bottom of the foot area and maybe a foot up the side to make a home-made top quilt for under $30 and about 1 pound weight, yet it sleeps roomy and warm enough. I make a lightweight 3/4 length underquilt from a smaller synthetic down quilted blanket. Together the two weigh under 2 pounds, pack tiny, and cost maybe $50. Just right for summer backpacking with a hammock.

[@scottchristie625]

I have reached a similar conclusion. Life's too short not to have a good night's sleep while backpacking. I'm currently saving up for a quilt and the Big Agnes Rapide SL pad. Nice and comfy!

[@Quintinia]

I'm still working on fine-tuning my sleep setup, but the first game changer I figured out was to under-inflate my air mattress. Makes it feel squishier and conform better to my body's angles.

[@SummitSeeker546]

Great insight to a comfortable nights sleep in the back country. I’d like to add a few tips. First, a comfortable pillow is key. One of my luxury items is a very soft pillow case. Plus it reduces the slip factor off the pad that most people battle… Second, I love using a silk cocoon liner. I’m not a fan of wearing pajamas/long underwear. I’m much more comfortable wearing a soft cotton teeshirt and shorts. Plus the liner adds warmth, protects the quilt from body oils, prevents you from compressing up against the quilt causing cold spots, and gives you a comfortable layer between you and the pad. Third, in order to increase the R factor of your pad and to reduce the cold from seeping up from the ground I recommend using a 1/8” foam pad to put under your inflatable pad. This foam pad can also replace your sit pad. I have a 20”x40” foam pad, 1.7oz, by Mountain Laurel Designs that I use. It has many uses, I can use it for yoga, to lay out all my gear on when the ground is wet, to nap on at lunchtime. And lastly, it’s important to wash the grime off your body. I find a clean body is imperative to a comfortable nights sleep! Happy trails…

[@bluebellcrushedvelvet]

Yeeesss!!! Yess to all!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@judylloyd7901]

So, back country back packing, how do you wash all the grime off for a comfortable night's sleep?

[@SummitSeeker546]

@@judylloyd7901 you need 3 things. Campsuds Soap, available at REI, or any biodegradable soap, a microfiber towel 12”x12”, and water. You can figure out the rest from here… Hope you sleep well in the back country!

[@left4cash]

Baby nappies are great for wiping sweat off your body if a shower or bath isn't an option

[@sporkstar1911]

Best Pillow ive ever used is a Towel. It can be molded any way you want, its lightweight, and your head wont fall off of it.

[@___.51]

I used my clothing bag, worked great as a neck pillow

[@frostys_bushcraft]

I agree with you on most part, although I'm oldfashioned and never tried a quilt. Nice thick pad, a good sleeping bag that is right for the season (equally bad as being cold is being hot, really ruins my sleep) and a good pillow. Really worth the extra weight. Also, I'm really glad your channel is growing rapidly! Keep 'em coming!

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Thanks. And you ought to try a quilt. Buy one at REI and if it’s terrible you can return it up to a year after you bought it. It really does make a difference. Thanks for watching

[@nedanother9382]

Oh my old fashioned brother....I can't encourage you more to try a quilt. It's so freeing. Modern quilts (I'm an EE fan) are like warmth from invisible covers...they are lighter than just a sheet on my bed yet my 10 degree will take me from the sierras to the grand canyon...just kick it aside when you're warm.

[@frostys_bushcraft]

@@nedanother9382 I considered a quilt but so far cons outweigh the pros for me.

[@markcummings6856]

@@frostys_bushcraft Come on Frosty, you ole Bushcrafter. 😂

[@techguy9023]

@@frostys_bushcraft you don’t have to worry about getting uncovered in a sleeping bag. Having some down under you is not wasted weight. No drafts

[@FlufLord]

I can highly recommend checking out the Klymit Pillow X Large. The design is so simple but clever that it solved my issues better than anything else i tried, including the fillow. Having an indentation in the center keeps your head cradled there, which was my biggest issue with anything inflatable. The material is soft and less rubbery than most so you don’t go deaf from readjusting your head. It works with setups like your zenbivy but also sticks to the not-velcro tabs that come with the etherlight xt pad to keep it in place. i recommend deflating it just a touch after filling it. Another small tip is if you’re looking at the etherlight pad, consider getting the womens model instead, especially if you’re a side sleeper. The shape is better for knees and elbows to stay on, the R value is slightly better, and the cost is the same. It’s fairly misleading calling it a woman’s design when imo it’s just a BETTER design, regardless of who’s using it.

[@FlufLord]

@@thegreenman6216 Yikes! I know about elitists out there, but my impression is more people are gravitating towards a balanced approach: save major ounces wherever you can (like a dcf shelter) to afford weight that adds major enjoyment elsewhere (like a plush sleep system, or a fancy coffee setup). You still get the benefits of keeping your overall weight down while tailoring it to your hiking style. That’s what makes it a fun hobby for me. I’m actually experimenting right now with using the X pillow as the internal air bladder for the fillow, to have the best of both designs. i just can’t find my fillow after moving house 😭

[@peggywoods4327]

I have that same pillow! I also love how small it is packed up.

[@jamieboulton5520]

I have avoided camping out for decades because I didn't think it was possible to get a good nights sleep. This video opens up a whole new world of hiking possibilities for me. Thank you!

[@utahwaxwing]

My favorite setup for side-sleeping might be a little expensive and slightly heavier but I take it on backpacking trips and I think it’s totally worth it - is a thermarest backpacking cot to level out the ground and give a little flex and an *under*-inflated Exped mattress on top of that to create amazing comfort and then my rei magma sleeping bag sometimes used as a quilt and a good pillow. I’m going to check out the fillo, that looks like a nice improvement.

[@granitfog]

Regarding quilts: be sure the quilt's straps that hold onto the pad are ELASTIC to give the quilt flexibility of movement. Regarding pillows: a good cheap pillow (self made) is egg crate 1.5 to 2 inch open cell foam cut to desired size inside a regular pillow protector (also cut to size with the cut side sewn closed.

[@DanteYewToob]

One of my friends has a bizarre trick that works… She carries a gardening rake thing and she fluffs up the soil under where she puts her bed and when she lays down on her bed and bag, the ground under the tent sort of molds to her body a bit… Sounds odd but it works for her… lol

[@amberbydreamsart5467]

I am an extremely toss & turn-y side sleeper, and every issue you talked through is exactly what I've struggled with sleeping backpacking. The zenbivy light bed is especially the type of thing I'd been wishing my quilt provided and I am so excited to find it! I'll definitely be giving it a shot next

[@frstesiste7670]

What I've learned on two thruhikes and a lot of shorter ones is that the key to sleeping well with any system is to spend enough time on it to get used to it. After a while on a thruhike I'll sleep better on my pad than in the occasional motel bed. That said I've also found that something like a Z-rest works OK for me on softer ground, but not on the wooden floors of AT-shelters or on stony/uneven ground. My favorite (even after trying thicker air mattresses) is the thinnest self inflating pads like a Prolite (but trying a NeoAir UberLite is tempting). The thing with the self inflating ones is that they are soft and warm enough (for me) with less height which makes it easier to sit up in the tent and (slightly) reduce the chance of the sleeping bag touching the end walls. They also only need a couple of breaths to be fully inflated, but that's not a super important to me. Personally I find mummy bags preferable to quilts although I often unzip the bag completely making it almost quilt like. When it's cold though I think the mummy bag still works better and that's the main advantage. Just one item that extremely versatile and just works. Conclusion: It's not one system that works well for everyone. Take what advice fits your needs from this video and other advice on sleep systems. To see the other end of the spectrum take a look at the "JupiterHikes" channel.

[@kosherfrank2165]

Same experience. For long-distance hiking, I prefer a 3/4 zip mummy bag. It is quilt-like most of the time, but can zip up tight for a survival situation, paired of course with a light silk liner for extra warmth and keeping the bag clean. I also like a short closed cell for tent sleeping and also for breaks. Shelters are kinda hard, so a mid-length narrow inflatable was best to maximize shelter occupancy and comfort. Guess I'm lucky I like a thin pillow, since my down or fleece vest makes for a fine pillow.

[@jonbassett8023]

One of the top informative no B.S. videos on what I was looking for. None better. So good I had to subscribe! And I purchased the Big Agnes Q-Core pad & Nemo Elite Luxury pillow! Next is the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Mtnglo 3 person tent and footprint to replace my Mountain Hardware Skyview 2 person tent that I've owned & used for almost 20 years!!

[@Mike-oz4cv]

I think a ton of this depends on your sleeping position, size and weight. I sleep on my stomach, my BMI is 21. I don’t need a thick or soft mat. I don’t need a pillow. I don’t mind if my feet and arms lie on the ground. As long as the mat has enough insulation and is firm enough to protect against small stones and bumps from the ground it’s pretty much good enough. The most annoying thing is mats which make a lot of noise (like the Therm-A-Rest NeoAir) and if it seals your ear when pressed against it.

[@tanvach]

Pillow is, by far, the most important component of my sleep system! After trying ~10 pillows (including fillo), I kind of settled for Exped large down pillow. Not perfect, so the search goes on.

[@bushboxer]

For me the best has been a DIY pillow I made from Apex insulation leftovers from a quilt I made. It’s like a real pillow but miniature in size.

[@FlufLord]

i’m on that journey with you, brother. currently trying to find my fillow so i can use the klymit x pillow to replace it’s internal air bladder, since the fillow is just a sleeve with a pouch for some thin foam and anither for the air bladder. i have high hopes for this one.

[@iamrubenmes]

Oh my god, I feel so seen! This is it brother! On of the main reasons I don't go out more is because of disparaging sleep. This could be a beautiful solution! I would have liked to hear and weight and package sizes for your final picks, as I myself am very interested in your setup!

[@jamesbothwell1]

I also recently realized how big a difference a good pillow makes. I had tried a stuff sack with clothes (soft, but is pretty much always compressed already with no loft) and inflatables (different shapes and sizes, but never actually comfy even when inflated to the right height), and I just ended up with the Thermarest compressible pillow. It still packs down acceptably small but it's made a huge difference to my sleep

[@Emily_Charter]

This was SO helpful. Even just knowing that all of this stuff exists makes me hopeful that I can get back into backpacking after avoiding it for so long because I sleep so badly on the ground!

[@stevec6642]

Allow me to jump on the bandwagon and congratulate you on an excellent video. Short concise loaded with info. On another note, to reinforce your message about quality sleep. I am a long haul flatbed truck driver, crossing state line into SC they had a DOT blitz setup. I pulled in a DOT jumped up onto my step first question he asked “is your bed made” I started to laugh then I realized he was serious he said “state statute, I can show you in the book” after I told him that yes my bed was made (26 years in the military, just a habit I got into) he asked if I was using a sleeping bag? I asked why? He said they don’t like to see us using sleeping bags because they don’t provide a night of quality sleep. The moral of the story is I no longer haul freight into SC.

[@Valeria-th4ql]

Among many other stuff for camping, I inherited my father’s sleeping bag (he was tall and heavy, and I’m… not so much). And I’m still using that sleeping bag ever since for many years now. It’s the best! I have space for moving around, it’s warm, it only needs a thin tourist mat underneath (2/3 of an inch), and I had the best sleep even on a rock. Oh, and by the way, I don’t take a pillow with me. I take a bag (in which the sleeping bag is stored) and put T-shirts, socks, etc., inside, leaving it halfway empty. It makes a nice pillow.

[@zamonischeswunderrind1353]

i always are curious why someone needs to mention several brand names when explaining something. I havent seen any advert sticker in the video. Simple thing which always works: try for your own what fits best. ;-)

[@roamingrick8736]

On a most recent section hike I took 2 inflatable pillows and no 2 do not work under my head but I discovered as a side sleeper the smaller trekology I had worked perfectly between my knees and took some stress off both knees and back while the off brand bigger pillow worked for under my head. I had never tried a quilt until 2 trips ago and I’ll not go back to bag I think until I hit below freezing temps and even then I’m not sure. Thinking below that it maybe my 15 degree bag and 25 deg quilt as a combo we will see.

[@hi9580]

Get a good canvas swag like darche dusk to dawn or crashpad king single, they come with 70mm convoluted foam mattress.

[@tonyhasfun]

I always struggled in mummy-style sleeping bags and contoured pads, but mostly with the bag. However once I got a double pad (Exped duo LW) and sleeping bag (Sierra Designs backcountry duo) to share with my girlfriend, I slept very well. Even better when we car camp and bring our down pillows from home. Your tips here should set those with sleep issues on the right track 👍

[@CaptainAmaziiing]

I sleep outside every night, year round. Started back in my 20's when I was climbing/ hiking like a madman. It helps that I'm on a second story, covered deck, on a futon, under 4 comforters, warm and cozy as can be. Woke up to the first snow of the season this morning a few feet away and just lay in bed for 15 minutes, enjoying it. The colder and wetter it is outside, the cozier I feel all tucked in my nest. But in my backpacking days I slept pretty rough plenty of times. Hypothermia FTW. This guy is doing some pretty glamorous backpacking. A pillow? That's what a rolled up jacket is for. But I also never slept well on my minimal setup, so he's not wrong. Thumbs up for a short, concise, information dense video.

[@SyvakK]

I just stumbled onto your video and you described literally every conclusion I came to over the years as well. I bought an ultra light super narrow sleeping pad trying to save weight/space, but same as you, my knee wouldn't fit. Now I bring an extra wide sleeping pad (Klymit Static V Luxe). While I don't use a ZenBivy, I bought the Klymit Sheet that goes over the Luxe. Predominantly because it has a hood to hold my pillow so it doesn't fall off the top. Third, I invested in a good quality quilt years ago. I remember having to pay duties/taxes for it here in Canada and was annoyed at how expensive it was overall, but wow has it ever been the best investment ever (and it has 3 tie-down straps that go under my mattress). And last but not least, is I just bought a travel-sized memory foam pillow. Yes it takes up way more space than an inflatable pillow, but if you aren't getting good sleeps, you're miserable all day. I do still use a bag stuffed with clothes, but only for something to prop my knee up on. And with all that in mind, I literally sleep as well in a tent as I do in a bed. I wake up maybe once in the night and roll over and immediately fall back asleep. The sleeping mat, sheet, and pillow probably only set me back ~250 CAD, so the only expensive item was the quilt.

[@jeroen81]

I always sleep like a baby when camping so I clicked this video to see what I was doing correctly. Luckily for me, it turns out sleeping outside by itself is a warranty for a great night. I've even had great nights in a leaky tent on a slowly deflating mattress, ending up with my butt or hip on the ground. (it wasn't freezing). I'm in heaven as soon as I'm outside and sleep accordingly.

[@tokyobikeradio]

I personally have some wonderful sleep on a setup like the one recommended against here. I use a z fold mat, a sleeping bag, and a sea to summit inflatable pillow that is slightly deflated. Works great for me and I'm happy to be spendings less on fancy camping gear!

[@johnmca5643]

You're very fortunate. I'd be up all night with that set-up.

[@adamwilliams2253]

z fold mat works for me too. chuck a jacket in a stuff sack and I'll sleep fine

[@FlufLord]

I’m happy you found a setup that works well for you. That’s the most fun part of this hobby for me.

[@pottingsoil]

Young

[@Mike-oz4cv]

@@pottingsoil Not young, probably just light and sleeping on their stomach. Especially for women the Z-Lite can be perfect since you can also cut it to size. A nice thing is also that it’s very robust and doesn’t need inflation, so you can just lay down wherever you want throughout the day.

[@thermalreboot]

This is great advice, when I switched to a wide pad, a quilt and a good pillow my sleep improved to almost as good as home.

[@iTurkiQ]

Before I even complete the video, this is by far the best video talking about outdoor sleeping system. Right to the point. Thank you very much!

[@WendiandGio]

Hello! Great video and I agree with 99% of everything you pointed out. With regards to the pillow - I do agree that finding the best for YOU is the most important last part of your sleep system which in the end is the final and most important component. For me, I got a small cotton pillow case with a zipper and then I stuff my light weight down jacket into it and it seems to be the perfect amount of loft to match my pillow back home. In the end I don't add any real weight onto my overall backpack weight and it gives me great sleep results results.

[@Evensteven73]

Inspired from this video i bought Big Agnes Los Dog 0, Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe Wide and the Nemo Fillo. Slept in tent last weekend with my daughter and the scouts, never been so comfortable in a tent before, thanks!

[@alexandrianunley5124]

A cheap and lightweight option that provides cushion, insulation from the ground, and squeezes down to a tiny tiny size, but has no problem fluffing back out when you pack it, and can have multiple uses, is a car washing sponge from the dollar tree. Been doing it for years now with no issues.

[@markok.9987]

Like the oversized yellow sponge 🧽?

[@Arenpat]

You mean as a pillow?

[@rp8164]

@@Arenpat No, no. They use it as a mattress. It was written by Stuart Little.

[@Arenpat]

@@rp8164 In the UL scene nothing's impossible :-D

[@rp8164]

@@Arenpat True....UL mice dock their own tails to save on weight :D

[@SkipperJane]

I bought a cocoon pillow a few years ago and I’ve been very happy with it. I even take it on planes because it’s so packable. I totally agree about the thick pad. Last backpacking trip, I was willing to haul the extra weight to get my exped megamat lite up the hill, but I don’t regret it because I actually slept in the backcountry.

[@ChefGreen]

I love my Q-Core, I took a similar journey as you and the width and QUIET of this pad is unbeatable, I recommend it to everyone. Big Agnes knows what they're doing.

[@IAmFlorin_]

That was one of the best intros I've seen on KZbin in a while. Great job, Steven!

[@ThatsSoGiorgio]

I have absolutely no issues falling asleep. My only struggle is it being too hot. I can sleep in cold since my body radiates heat like nobody’s business so it’s easier for me to stay warm than it is for me to cool off. Last camping trip, I slept with my new sleeping bag and a decent size fleece blanket. I still occasionally woke up and was cold so I threw my sleeping bag over me to trap more heat in but that was the only issue I had and the nights were pretty chilly here in the east coast in September this year.

[@mariekatherine5238]

I’m mainly a car camper these days in my 70’s, I usually sleep great in a tent. I’m a stomach sleeper. I buy a few cheap beach and pool air mattresses. If one gets a bad leak, I can use it for a table cloth, to cover firewood, my bicycle, or as a windshield cover for privacy if I have to sleep in my car. I put a thin mat beneath and another on top. My pillow is actually a stuffed animal, a large lobster that I bought in a thrift store and put in my tent’s stuff sack! Depending upon the weather, I use one or two king sized blankets, one of 100% boiled (therefore, washable) wool Navy blankets sewn together to make it king sized, or almost king sized. The other is a king sized down filled blanket, also washable. I can roll up in both with the wool on top, or vice-versa, fold one to add bottom padding and put the other over me, or if very hot outside, I’ve even skipped them altogether. I don’t find sleeping bags comfortable. Sleepwear is also important. My preference is a cheap sweatsuit, woolen socks and a woolen hat. Of course, in tropical like weather, I sleep in a men’s 3x t-shirt or polo shirt. Either way, I can emerge looking decent for a run to the toilet or hasty retreat to my car. I store all in stuff sacks. I can use these items if sleeping in the car, as well.

[@punko9031]

I don’t sleep outside often but still, this was an incredibly informative video and I will definitely take some of that info into account when buying new equipment in the next few months. Thank you

[@sleepysera]

At home, I sleep tightly rolled up in a blanket on a very slim matress. The key to good sleep while camping was to ditch all the fancy stuff and sleep in a thick sleepingbag directly on the tent floor, because that's the most similar to how I sleep at home too. I don't think there is such a thing as a universal "best sleep" solution because people have such incredibly varied ways that make them feel comfortable, so it's all about how to best relate their outdoor experience to what they are normally used to.

[@James-ye7rp]

I agree with just about everything you said in this video. The one thing I do differently is the cover on the pad; I use an over-sized cover/sheet that over-hangs the edges of the pad by quite a bit. In this way I can stick my legs out without having them on the ground. I can stretch out all the way and not worry about the cold shock. I strongly agree, also, that the proper pillow is absolutely critical for a good sleep that does not put a kink in your neck overnight. Nice video and great ideas. Thanks.

[@bjf10]

I'm a huge fan of the Sea to Summit Pillow Lock system. I was shocked at how well it worked, honestly. For a sheet, I use a sleeping bag liner; this might not work well for a side sleeper though.

[@zoladkow]

the pillow lock may not work if one moves at all during sleep... it makes awful noises... right. next. to. the. EAR 😑

[@bjf10]

@@zoladkow I have not had that issue with my setup.

[@samueldullaart]

It might be because I'm still relatively young, but I'm a side sleeper as well and I experience basically none of the problems you're describing. A good sleeping bag plus a pillow made from clothes (as long as you do it right) gives me just as good of a nights rest as i get at home. And it saves a lot of weight and money.

[@DamienDarkside]

It's because you are relatively young. Even at 25 I was looking for better sleep outdoors.

[@Mike-oz4cv]

@@DamienDarkside I think the bigger factor is weight and maybe muscle mass as well as a healthy spine.

[@atom7584]

I'm kinda the same the only thing that makes the diference for me is the pillow, i can sleep on some pretty rough ground withouth any mats fine but filling a bag with clothes and having a decent pillow is night and day for me.

[@andomare]

@WungusBill nah, I think it's a body type thing, I'm almost 30 and I can sleep fine on a yoga mat and a rolled up hoodie as a pillow. Though I switch positions a lot when sleeping like this.

[@JH-fk8ow]

@@DamienDarkside im almost 40, athletic and lean. i can sleep on any surface, hammock, piece of cardboard, concrete or couple roots poking under tent. its not about age, its more about how well you take care of your body.

[@jennt9924]

I am so glad I finally found someone doing a video review on the Zenbivy!! I have have slept in sleeping bags multiple times from Kayak camping on a river. So i wanted more comfort so i started researching for 6 months before my first week long camping trip to Maine. I bought the extra wide Term-a-rest since i am a side sleeper as well as the Zenbivy light bed 25. This was the first time I ever camped with a sleeping pad because my bf said we never needed one kayak camping on the river- so it was always just a crappy sleeping bag.And freezing my.. well you know. I slept comfortably in Maine at Mount Desert Campground between 35-65 degrees. We knew it would possible get to the 30's in mid September. Which it did. I would never camp without the Therma- Rest or the ZenBivy. You can roll all around and bump into your partner comfortably. After seeing my set up he wants one too. I highly recommend the ZenBivy! My question is since Pads, Sleeping gear and tents are the heaviest for backpacking are their lighter options for pads with a high EN rating that you would recommend for quality sleep? Thank you so much for making this video!!!!