The TRUTH about buying JETBOIL, MSR or GRAYL

Use coupon code ‘DANB15’ at Backcountry to get 15% off your first purchase on backcountry.com (exclusions may apply)
Jetboil Micromo bit.ly/2UMmT0n
MSR Quick Skillet bit.ly/3xYSLNA
Grayl Compact Ultralight Water Purifier bit.ly/2Tx3mQS
My Other Gear 👇
SATELLITE COMMUNICATOR bit.ly/3jgStdo​
SLEEPING PAD bit.ly/2KNVZAf​
OTHER SLEEPING PAD amzn.to/2XfSxRz​
TENT bit.ly/35auKqq​
BACKPACK bit.ly/381EVhf​
DOWN JACKET bit.ly/2EBbx6M​
RAIN JACKET bit.ly/3ggXYrs​
CHAIR bit.ly/3eecrD1​
Check out Chef Corso's channel 👉 bit.ly/3th9YP6
Check out Eric’s channel 👉 bit.ly/2Wje4vw
how to cook amazing meals in the backcountry while backpacking and hiking. cooking tools for hiking and camping and backpacking. best water filter or purifier. what's the difference between a water purifier and a filter? Ultralight backpacking and hiking. Eric Hansen. Chef Corso.

[@danielkutcher5704]

Not everyone needs to be an "ultralight backpacker". No one needs to apologize for being a "glamper". That said, I like to hike long days, one after another, for weeks. I carry titanium and DCF gear which is as expensive as it is light. All of it is functional, and most of which is multipurpose. That's my thing, not even MOST people's thing. So, get out there and enjoy whatever you carry, wherever you go. 👍

[@Spear995]

There was a video years ago by nutnfancy where he showed his backpacking gear. It took up his entire living room and included an inflatable boat. He went into how he does carry a lot of weight, but he uses everything and it gives him a lot of capabilities on his trips. That's sort of how I look at my own gear. Sure I try to keep the weight down, but I've found that a little extra weight here and there to ensure that I get a better night's sleep or that I have a more enjoyable trip pays itself back ten fold.

[@adamwright4135]

UL often feels like a cringy cult whose members have forgotten why they went outside in the first place

[@archi-mendel]

​ @Adam Wright from the other point - UL concept pushes the borders. And this definitely affects regular hiking/camping gear. You can now buy 2 kg 2 person tent able to withstand severe storm. And like 20 years ago 4 kg 2 person tent was considered reasonable. I've got 2 layer tent which weights 0.9 kg, a boat which weights 2.5 kg and a sleeping bag which weights 0.8 kg and is able to keep me warm down to +2C. And this all is pretty packable. This means that I can go to a week-long solo hiking + paddling route having everything I need packed inside my 80 litre backpack with little stuff attached outside (which helps much when hiking through wild boreal forests). I personally just love ultralight as I can utilise some ideas/products of this concept whenever this fits my needs.

[@backpacker3421]

@@adamwright4135 I do see that a lot, though mostly online. Many of them actually on the trail are not that way though. On the trail, most ULs I know believe in HYOK, Hike Your Own Hike, and only discuss weight when somebody else brings it up, and never in a judgemental way. On the other hand, the armchair UL hikers you see online seem to think UL is a competition, and the lightest baseweight is the king of backpacking. It's ludicrous, and about 90% of the backpackers I know think that THOSE ultra-lighters should hike as far as possible from all other human beings, because they aren't fit company to keep. Personally, I think most of those ULs never actually get on the trail anyway. At least, they never seem to talk like that in person on the trail... Personally, if I'm going to be trying to cover big distances on demanding trail, I'll probably bring my UL loadout, because that will increase my quality of life more than any luxury items I could bring. But if I only need to make 15-20 miles a day, or the miles I'm covering are pretty flat, I'll bring something more like a 16 lb baseweight, because it will be comfortable enough, and the luxury items will improve my quality of life more than keeping the weight down. But I'm 6'4" and nearly 200 lbs, so carrying a 25-30 total weight is probably a lot more comfortable for me than for smaller hikers. Bottom line is always HYOK, and keep finding the things that make you happiest on the trail, not what is going to impress the other hikers, because WE don't care what YOUR pack weighs.

[@adamwright4135]

@@backpacker3421 I totally agree with you, and myself use a decent amount of UL gear combined with a few luxuries. I recently inquired on r/Ultralight about people's thoughts on a 3.5oz titanium grill surface - around 120 GRAMS! - and my question was deleted by the mod, who said the gear wasn't considered UL. So I guess I'm still annoyed about that :)

[@williamsugden5159]

Wow! Dan! I'm a reluctant truck driver, having to run in the north much of the time. I don't have a working heat source except when the truck is running. I can't afford to run it constantly. I've been looking and learning to live more like a camper. Most videos I've seen on KZbin, are incomplete. They're not as knowledgeable as I had hoped. Often, I wasted too much time with these channels. Yours was a big turnaround for me. You're very knowledgeable, experienced and educated. You don't need to communicate by insinuation, like these wannabes. I got just what I needed with this video. Completely, thoroughly and direct. I'll be seeing more of your channel from now on. I'll let my friends know also. Thank you for all you do. Keep up the great work!

[@TruuGemini]

😂🤣😂 200 nights a year. “Take that thru hikers” I’m dying on that line.

[@OzMan9989]

No brainer but glad you’re sending the message. I’m never cold soaking no matter what - I want to live like a human.

[@replicators]

Come to the dark side, living like a human is overrated.

[@TruuGemini]

@@replicators true!!

[@GustoStCool]

Savages!

[@AC-kk3vo]

😂

[@amyjones-lonestarhoosier2029]

Loved it again!! Thanks for letting us see what’s out there!! I tend to agree with you. It’s not ALL about the weight!! U have to enjoy yourself out on the trail!! My husband and I tried the separate sleep systems and decided that the weight of a double sleeping pad and rectangle sleeping bags that can be zipped together was way worth the extra weight. Thanks again!!

[@darchgirladventures4417]

What I love about videos like this is that it is a reminder of why we are out there to begin with. We should be looking at what we bring, or can do without to make sure we enjoy being there and will go out, maybe even inspire another to head out. For me, I went ultra light with my big 3 so that I could carry the food for the 3 of us - they weren’t stuck hating life with a cranky mom. Jetboil was a must as my kids could use it with minimal risk of injury.

[@monkey0lovin]

I followed you because you seemed super genuine. I keep watching because you inspire me. Also started following both mentioned people and now I wish I could meet all of you. I'm truly loving the outdoors. Thanks from Mt Rainier WA

[@ms7fam433]

Thanks for continuing to introduce us to different gear. We may not always agree, however your reviews help us make more informed decisions. Keep up the great work.

[@yamnuska1]

Dude... you are always my go to for what to use. I am a mountain climber, sailor and adventure OTG guy through and through. Banff, Alberta 20 years and travel across Canada and the world. After you sold me on the UGQ quilt, the Grayl water filter is totally the purchase. Love the adventures and the Michigan UP. We all soon may really be off the grid 🤗

[@dnaylor2484]

I live in Australia (Sydney) and find your videos quite interesting, your gear explanations etc are great, i personally probably over do what i carry but love some comfort items, also im a fan of 2 man tents for 1 person camping... my day trip carry is my base and multi day carry is simply with an addition of a tent, sleeping bag, mat and multiples of food.. having said that my day trip set up allows me to make a forced overnight if something goes wrong on solo walks... a lot of my foods are sourced from asian supermarkets (mainly Korean) as they have a range of retort pouch and freeze dried stuff that are high quality and much cheaper than camping stores... actually if you haven't then you should have a good look through a Korean/japanese supermarket.... My main water purification set up is a usb rechargeable steri pen, paper coffee filter and collapsible silicon sieve.. my main weight of stuff i carry is 3lt of water, this may sound a lot even as a day trip (have used 6 litres in a day during a 20km walk) but our conditions can be quite brutal and fast changing in our wilderness areas with water everywhere then almost nothing 3 weeks later...(have also experienced in one day over 7 hours starting with high temperature clear skies then lightning strikes, horizontal gale force wind driven sleet then deluge, flash flooding, ankle deep running water along trails then back to high temperature clear skies at the end of the day as though nothing had happened)... :)

[@0neTwo3]

I had the ultralight Grail, but switched to the regular after figuring out how easy it was to cross contaminate the water with the UL. On the UL the dirty water cup is so close to the lid that your lips actually touch the outer cup when you drink. The separate smaller pour spout on the large Grail completely eliminates this issue. It also makes filling a small mouth container like a smart bottle much easier.

[@joeykerr5517]

I didn't know they even made a lighter one. I was wondering what they chopped off.

[@gedfi]

@@joeykerr5517 The ultralight version came first.

[@erikmorehouse4236]

Nailed it. I have the Geopress for the same reason. 🤙🏻

[@rickw4160]

stainless came first. I got it during the kickstarter/startup. I still don't like their purifiers, as its hard to tell when it is no longer effective.

[@warriorredeemed215]

They just came out with the ultra press, lighter than geopress but with the same water spout feature

[@longwildernesswalks]

Honestly though... I went all 100% UL a few years ago. It was great! I was able to do the trails I wanted to, and the durations I wanted to, all without having to worry about the weight. If I was going to suggest to anyone, go UL on your pack, tent, get a quilt, and a good high-quality sleeping pad. Everything else is subjective. I use a Jetboil and a Ti Frying Pan. You can save a TON of weight by getting the big 4 as light as you can. After that, have fun mixing it up with gear that works for you. Excellent episode Dan.

[@Kevinschart]

they didn't have UL back in the day and still did big miles. take less crap and you don't need a 100% UL pack.

[@coachhannah2403]

Jetboil is heavy!

[@PoeticJustice05]

​@@coachhannah2403it's a good workout 😉

[@thomasgarrity9984]

Hi Dan: I've been listening and enjoying your videos for a while now. I'm in my mid 50s and have been packing and canoe/kayak trekking since my parents would pack me in because I was too young. Over the years I've collected an assortment of equipment (I don't need anything), but like a kid in the candy shop........ I am comfortable on trail or back woods. I would like to claim that I know it all, BUT I DON'T! No one does. And when you openly admitted that there was more YOU could learn, I Subscribed to your channel. There are "some" others that wouldn't say that. (You learn till the day you die). Get out there, be safe, have fun, keep the videos coming and NEVER STOP LEARNING!

[@habituallinestepper8839]

Glad to see you opening yourself up to new ideas. I enjoyed your videos with both Chef Corso and Eric I enjoy what they bring to the table. 👍🏻

[@Egzackt]

Subbed dude. You seem to have my approach to backpacking- love the breakdowns and the balance between getting in the miles and enjoying the journey.

[@linhovenden]

I love the humility of this video. Great to see different perspectives and how they function well.

[@kernowoutdoors]

Great video- can’t wait to get back in the hills!!! Love the concept- enjoy your food- use whats available. I will take this idea with me next time out!!!

[@chefegzyle]

As a backpacker chef, I also carry an skillet. It's a bit smaller, and titanium, but I cant imagine not being able to sauté some of my ingredients for supper. Cooking while backpacking adds another level of fun, and something to look forward to at base. Down with freeze dried packed meals!

[@woodchip2782]

Your arguments are well prepared about this touchy subject. It’s been a while since I’ve appreciated one of your videos. This one brings a new eye to the backpacking world. I backpack to be out there in nature, not to race towards the end. Although I hate to carry too much stuff with me I love to stop and enjoy my surroundings. Enjoying food Is there too.

[@GrayMan7070]

Bring a sponge if you cook Mac & Cheese in that Jetboil. You will need it. Best to just heat up the water in it. That's my experience at least. Cheers from Colorado!

[@chriskp]

I thought you weren’t supposed to cook in a jetboil? I thought they had a special coating

[@kgwash]

You can only cook in the MiniMo because it is a regulated stove. The rest are off or nuclear. No in-between

[@veryhighspirits]

Good to see your evolution. Be mindful and enjoy ALL aspects of the outdoor adventure.

[@chrisdornerrespecter8884]

Watching him use a rough rock as a cutting board is like nails on a chalkboard

[@DanBecker]

🔪 🪨 😬😂

[@UrDoinItWrong]

Also these guys love violently raking their titanium spork on whatever delicate teflon-coated aluminum or otherwise scratchable surface they can find.

[@chriskp]

@Wes B a little dirt in your food is fine, but that poor blade

[@papatechie]

Looks like he is just sharpening his edge at the same time ;)

[@mrledhead68]

All my mud pies in the 70's count, snowflake!!

[@FlowJunkee65]

Right on, Dan. Excellent video AND message ... don't be afraid to try out new gear for yourselves that you just may love and function beautifully for you, esp. when highly experienced folks use and trust them, too. I've got the Grayl GeoPress which is awesome. My only advice would be to prefilter your water to make your Grayl purification filter last longer. I also have one of many available knock offs of the JetBoil Flash (not the MicroMo) and it works quite well. Supposedly you buy the JetBoil Flash only for boiling water quickly, and the MicroMo if you want to boil water quickly (although not as quickly as the Flash) AND simmer your food. However, really all you have to do is to turn down the intensity of your heat on the Flash and you're good for simmering, so I never understood this differentiation.

[@peteprevenas4323]

Jetboil hack… ditch the lid… pickup a sea to summit collapsible cup… fits perfectly 😀

[@destinationbushcraft1833]

why?

[@peteprevenas4323]

@@destinationbushcraft1833 … i only ever boil water in the jetboil… I use my sea to summit cup to eat out of… haven’t had much luck with the plastic cover they come with… sea to summit cup is easy to clean..

[@eughtyph]

do you mean the x-cup? would the x-tumbler also work? it's only 1/4th of an inch larger in diameter. I'm asking because the tumbler is better suited for hot liquids

[@robch4414]

Feels like a road to Damascus moment, when cooking and eating food transforms from being a pit-stop refuel to being an enriching part of the whole lived outdoor experience. Yes, it's about gear (ker-ching) but this is really about much much more than that.

[@matthewsinger]

I almost exclusively cook meals on the trail. Best experience ever. Especially if you are hiking in groups. It's a bonding experience. It's nice to see that there is a traditional pot stand to go on a Jetboil stove. But for those of us who cook more than they boil water, I think I'll stick with my Pocket Rocket or white gas stove (depending on situation) and a traditional pot or kettle in addition to a skillet. I've been happy with MSR's 1.5 and 2.5 L pots which are good for 2 - 4 people respectively. Happy trails.

[@justindblankenship]

Just discovered your channel. Love it man! Keep going!

[@replacement6386]

Great video! Would have loved to see more about the individuals and their perspectives, but still very cool vid!

[@richardcliff3510]

My frying pan is my most versatile cooking implement (combined with the Jetboil). As a backpacking fisherman in the Sierras, I use it for cooking trout but it has so so many other uses. Pancakes, peach crumble, sauces for pasta, beef stroganoff, omelettes and bacon, spaetzle, cornbread for chili. The list goes on … I use a pie tin as a lid and a lightweight frying pan with a silver stone finish is super easy to clean. Great video Dan!

[@jccullen6408]

How do you make beef stroganoff? Do you just pack in all the ingredients? I’m curious, thank you.

[@richardcliff3510]

Basically. I used freeze dried beef or jerky, dried mushrooms (Chinese ones are a little cheaper) and a McCormick stroganoff packet converting the sour cream quantities to dried sour cream and water. The noodles cook in the jet boil and everything else simmers in my frying pan. The is all mixes together at the last minute. Really tasty dish after a long day in the wilderness. I do a lot of different dishes this way. Hope this helps!

[@safromnc8616]

These are perfect examples of why we do more 'base camp hiking' than necessarily backpacking. We carry all the big stuff 'in and out' and hike the area w/a day pack or hydration pack.

[@bobsiddoway]

Same! We always make a base camp 5-8 miles in, then day hike for days! Happy to warm up food, sit in my Helinox, and sip whiskey.

[@instantjizz]

I've had my jetboil flash for like 3 years now and I love the thing. Everything works nice and fits all together. The neoprene sleeve is great I can grab it even when it's boiling. It works in the wind. I've even found a lil hack to have an extra bigger cup nesting with it, and carry an extra fuel canister as a complete package. The GSI stainless steel cup! The jetboil flash model with the plastic cup removed fits snugly right over with room for the extra fuel inside. And then the plastic cup fits over the bottom of the GSI cup and they all pressure fit nice and snug together! It's great 😃👍

[@swtsoph]

I'm excited to check out the Grayl water purifier! Lots to learn: shelf life of the unit? Replacement parts & cost? Maintenance & cleaning? It looks pretty awesome, regardless of all that.

[@backpacker3421]

Not a fan of the JetBoil. I think the weight to experience-improvement ratio is pretty minimal over a pocket rocket style stove, but I have friends who love theirs, so I won't knock anybody who uses it. The skillet on the other hand is a MAJOR quality of life improver on the trail and barely adds any weight. It completely opens up your meal options. Probably the best weight to improvement ratio other than my pillow.

[@verlicht]

I'm currently recovering from second degree burning wounds from a situation that couldn't have happened with a jetboil, but did happen with my ultralight pocket stove. I'm getting a jetboil asap.

[@chrisformyduval893]

Aside from being a little quicker the other advantage is mainly if it allows you to not take either another canister or go to next size. The extra weight and cost of the complete jetboil setup compared to performance and flexibility of a Soto or similar stove doesn’t really seem to be advantageous in most scenarios and largely negates any fuel related weight saving from the HE pot. If you’re after an integrated system the windburner is much,much better in the wind most anything else.

[@marcofeature]

@@verlicht Wish you good recovery and back to the trail soon. Always be careful when handling fire no mater how many times you've been doing it.

[@backpacker3421]

@@verlicht Sorry to hear about that. I once had an ER trip after spilling boiling water when cooking on a whisperlite. Fortunately, the lesson was learned and I still use the minimalist stoves and haven't had an issues since in nearly 30 years. But I can definitely understand, and if it makes you happier or more comfortable on trail, then it's well worth it for you, I'm sure. Happy hiking and speedy recovery!

[@verlicht]

@@marcofeature thanks, next trail is through the Jordan dessert end of this month. Scarred for life, but won't stop me from doing trails!

[@ohiovetoutdoors]

Legit video Dan. I feel like Alot of people seem to get caught up with the weight and forget why they are out there.

[@masterofnone1481]

That and all the expensive name brand gear

[@walk-tall-hikes]

Dan you are the man! Thanks for another great video! Awesome tips and I totally agree with you.

[@rev.johnpate3231]

Yeah nice fun vid mon! Used my Zip a lot, after Rocket thing, after my soda can stove, after my Whisperlite, etc etc. BUT this season I ditched my Zip it a BRS-3000 to save .003 oz. After the BSR almost blew out a gas canister, I tossed it! Pass/fail. I just bought a Stash. The Stash is UL, IMO. Only because of fuel saving. I've been heading into a system flow anyway, like stove / pot system | bag / pad system, etc and all that jazz.. Happy trekking guys!

[@OurDee]

I am looking at getting the Grayl Geo for my moto-camping. Weight matters on the bike, but not as much as clean water. This was an eye opener. We worry about what doesn't matter and miss the forrest. Thanks, R.D. PS> The jetboil works for me as I eat, drink, and cook from one cup.

[@mr.perfect5303]

Good vid Dan. Eric definitely inspired me. Still awaiting your Strato tent review. Cheers!

[@csealand]

You make the best videos. I really like how you explain things

[@joeykerr5517]

Great points! I try to be in between normal and UL. I do think the Grayl is a little overkill for backpacking, nothing wrong with it though 👍

[@blcolon]

I have tried multiple filtration and the grayl has been the best as far as taste. I think it is worth a few ounces to not have that dirt taste to the water.

[@drumrgrrrl4319]

Thank you!! Love your videos!

[@freddiehill28]

I have watched a few of your videos and my thought was always "Why is he always eating that?" I watched a video of you going for a 2 nighter with your daughter and you were eating those dried meals and thought it would be lovely for you to get a skillet, a couple of pieces of meat and then cook a proper meal. It is interesting that you are now coming around to the thought that backpacking doesn't need to be bare bones ultralight if you are only going for a couple of nights. Excited to see where this takes you and what you start making.

[@davidcallan7844]

Cool! I too am a classically trained chef. Love MSR, have tent and two sets of their poles.Great stuff! Oohhhh I dig that water bottle, putting it on my list.🤘😎👍

[@bizob1]

Dan! Thank you for all your informative vids. I just pulled the trigger on a Nemo tensor pad on your recommendation. I’m prepping for a 10 day trek at Philmont Cimarron NM. I’ve been a quilt user for a long time, but I think I’m going back to a sleeping bag. Would love to hear your thoughts on the Big Agnes anvil 15 degrees down bag. Thanks again… love your content!

[@Crashphoenix666]

The Grayl is awesome! I have the Geopress like your friend. I take it when travelling anywhere (usually by motorcycle, but also hiking/backpacking). It's great for filtering questionable tapwater, along with skunky pond water. My GF has the ultralight that she used when hiking the AT this year. No complicated pumps systems to break down, just fill and use your bodyweight to press down. Best pieces of kit I've bought.

[@andreasritter5955]

Dan, Thank you for your videos...fun to watch! Enjoying a meal while on the trail...especially when it's a multi-day/week one...worth a few more extra grams! Even simple and lightweight tricks will do it: Bring fresh garlic, cloves and ginger...slice it and add it to standard dehydrated meals before you add hot water...total different flavor experience!

[@neologian1783]

I began backpacking as a kid in the Sierras near Lake Tahoe back in the 70's. Which means I've seen a lot of changes in gear over the years. Away went external frame packs, rectangular army bags, bedrolls, brass stoves, and canned food. Things evolved and every step of the way things generally got more compact & lighter while managing to get a bit roomier, warmer, and more comfortable. I've been through a LOT of upgrades over the years. and yet my pack weight has pretty much stayed the same as when I first started. Okay probably a pound or two lighter lighter. It occurs to me I've probably used the evolution toward lightness to increase my "camp comfort" as the years have passed. So the pack weight has stayed about the same but my sense of comfort and viable weather windows have probably increased a bit. As I've aged I've definitely been grateful for the lighter gear (e.g. down for synthetic, aluminum poles for fiberglass, Trangia Spirit for the Primus 100 etc.) as this has allowed me to ward off some of the effects of age with increased creature comforts in camp. Which is probably why I've not bothered trying to get down into Ultralight weights. I'm comfortable with the newer (but not UL) gear I carry, my newer packs carry exceedingly well, and I"m just not willing (or able.....if I'm honest) to sleep on something like a Z Lite mattress and sleep well anymore. For those that can do the UL thing it I sorta see it as a cool form of ascetism I suppose, but I'm too old for it now and I'm happy to carry a slightly roomier tent, warmer bag, and thicker mattress if means waking refreshed rather than wrecked.

[@justrusty]

I found that by starting sorta light, I was able to handle situations like stealth camping dry (as long as I knew ahead of time there was no water source) because I was able to haul several liters of extra water with me. I no longer worry about the ounces, found I got strong enough to carry nearly 40 lbs when necessary on AT climbs. So yeah, after a while counting ounces gets counterproductive, as long as your basics are reasonable.

[@jeket5007]

I have all 3 of those items and have loved using them for years now except the Grayl which I bought last hiking season. The biggest game changer for me was the Grayl water filter. I was so sick of spending so much time doing water filtration and this filter system was the best and easiest I have ever used. For me the little sacrifice in weight was way worth it. I no longer think about getting water like it is a chore to do when hiking.

[@7wt]

Oh sweet finally a backpacking video that’s not through hiking. Subbed.

[@jthymes3472]

As much as I enjoy the thru-hiking channels, I really do appreciate this channel a lot because it represents the majority of backpackers a lot more closely than UL thru-hikers.

[@christianvachon2235]

LOVE your videos and am now subscribed. I am not a JetBoil fan. I still think that a titanium cookset is better; I use MSR, but my favorite combo was the Snow Peak solo set and Giga stove combo. I don't carry a skillet, but have carried grills to cook a steak over ambers the first night - very luxurious, but so good. Thanks for the advice on the Grayl. I will look it up. I have been using the Pristine Water Bottle for years now and its the best compromise for me. I don't skimp on it - water is important. This may seem like a crazy idea, but more than weight, I think the big factor is volume. In time, I downsized my gear to a smaller volume and will do most multi-day treks on max a 55L pack. Made all the difference.

[@Malvinjyoung]

Great video, thanks again

[@guitarhiker4449]

Gear has come such a long way!! I remember how excited i was when jet boil first came out! Shortly after i bought my first jet boil zip i realized i wanted to also be able to cook fish and pan fry things so i bought a pocket rocket. Great stove! Now im using the pocket rocket 2 mini stove kit. Works great! I still like jet boil though. I would also recommend the larger grayl water filter. The small one just doesnt cut it in my opinion. The big one holds more water and you have less chances of contamination. Great filter! 350 squeezes before you have to change filter. Doesnt sound like alot but it is. For what you get its awesome! Filter water bottle in one. I prefer it over the sawyer and the befree. Yes its not ultralight but it takes up no more space than a nalgene bottle. Good stuff dan! Hike on!

[@guitarhiker4449]

24oz grayl geopress

[@Cujo..]

I have the Jetboil Minimo and have loved it because its a little more compact, but I bought the JetBoil Stash and I fell in love with it even more. I don’t have to carry the attachment for the stove with the stash because the pan sets right on the stove. As always good video 🎒 By the way thank you for the coupon code I just used it 😁😁😁

[@SwitchbackImages]

Love the idea of the stash but no temp control is what turned me away :(

[@jefferypike2304]

Well Dan I have been using the jet boil since it came out in the 2000 I have also use it for work so I have cook a lot in that I also use a skillet and I just bought the new jet boil stash I love it it’s a good cook kit I also use the msr dragon fly in the winter time it is a great stove been using it since the 90s still use it today the biggest thing is when you find something that works for you stay with it as long as you take care of it it will take care of you I use the grayl every day when I’m at work even though it’s tap water I still use my grayl I bought the jetboil skillet I find by far the best skillet on the market I have cooked lots of meals in that it’s a wonderful piece of gear I don’t use freeze dried meals anymore I bring fresh food and vegetables with me now

[@memathews]

Dan, so many variables. You should try a mini-wok on the stove sometime. The high sides let you cook up anything without fear of losing it, but it's not great for pancakes.

[@jt8251]

I absolutely love the Grayl water purifier. Best addition to my camping gear.

[@liamboggs]

What's up Dan the man what's cooking in Wisconsin nowadays? Always love your opinion and videos.

[@Erik_The_Viking]

JetBoil FTW! I've been using them since they came out (2002?), and it's been a permanent fixture in my backpack. The measuring cup with the JetBoil works well for a soup bowl. I've cooked a LOT of meals with it and I've had a lot of people surprised what I can cook with it. Heck, I even made espresso with it. You should genuinely enjoy your meals - it makes a HUGE mental difference when you're backpacking. I weigh my gear within reason, but I keep a simple goal to lighten my pack as much as possible and where practical.

[@davidsawmandave8731]

Nice video Dan , I have always said enjoy your meal , that kit gives the hiker more options , would make a great bug out kit also , I have the larger grayle filter , I like it alot , most of the time we just do overnighter and this setup would be perfect

[@JimRodgers]

I agree on all three. I use the Grayl Geopress on backpack trips and it's just awesome. The Jetboil gets the job done quickly with no fiddling. And a skillet has a multitude of uses (especially if you add a fishing kit!)

[@4BearWarrior]

I use my Grayl Geopress religiously. I even use it for plastic water bottles and tap water.

[@ostekuste3646]

I’ve used a Grayl Geopress strapped to my mountain bike for about three years. I don’t even carry a hydration pack anymore. The Grayl and a second standard water bottle I can fill from it gives me extra capacity. I’ve backpacked and travelled internationally with it. The Geopress is about the size of a Nalgene bottle, only a bit taller. If you figure in the extra weight and bulk of carrying a separate water filter (that will not filter viruses) and a bottle, it’s really not noticable. I would trust it to filter water out of a cow pond if I had no other choice. A filter cartridge will last on average 65+ cycles, though more sediment will kill it faster. I have never had to replace the cartridge more than once a year, though I’m careful about not getting any large sediment in it. Cartridges cost about $30, and they have a recycling program where you can send your old ones back.

[@Jax4umalta]

I loooove my Grayl. I have had mine for 3 years and I camp about 20 to 30 weekends a year. Best purifier i have ever had.

[@eric55406]

I'm buying some ultralight gear so I can also bring some of the "luxury" items like some fresh food on shorter trips. I might need a heavier pot but then I can just enjoy myself that much more. Thanks for sharing the inspiration Dan!

[@rsc9117]

Haha… just getting into multi-day hikes and starting to accumulate gear for a 6-day trek in Alberta with my brother in September. Over the past month I bought the Jetboil Minimo, MSR Quick skillet and arriving today was my Grayl Geopress. Can’t wait to use them!

[@WildGooseAdventures728]

Been wanting to try out backpacking currently just a weekend over lander but always carry a ton of cooking stuff as I’m the designated cook this really gives me excitement to try it out now

[@milesnielsen6295]

Hey Dan, first off great video! I love hiking and backpacking. My friend and I listen to John Kelly’s podcast and we found out that you’ve been around the pictures rock area. Him and I are looking to do a trip late this summer/fall. We are from middle Wisconsin and it’s so cool that you’re relatively close! My family has land up north near palisade head and shovel point just north of beaver bay Minnesota! If you haven’t been there I highly recommend it’s not anything close to a backwoods camping trip but the views are super cool! Just found out about your channel and am already a big fan!

[@DanBecker]

Hey Miles! That’s cool to know! I’ve never actually backpacked in Minnesota yet. Pictured rocks is definitely my favorite place here in the Midwest for sure. I’ll definitely look into Beaver Bay Minnesota area stuff! Thanks again!

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Great video Dan! Love that Jet Boil. Crow✌️

[@hieroja9774]

Hey dan, been watching your videos a lot lately and gotta say I love them! One small grime thought, we international viewers would really love it if you would always remember to say/put a text on the screen which would have the weight of the item you are talking about in grams. Cheers from Finland :)

[@rosslangerak8361]

Thanks for the inspiration. I ride a motorcycle. Though the motorcycle carries most of the gear, weight is still an issue. I tried a burner, but if I run out of fuel, I can be left with a half-cooked meal. I started carrying two canisters, but then I'd mix up the canisters and I still had no idea how much fuel I had. I just purchased a Firebox and a small pot and pan. Haven't had a chance to use them yet. I'm cautiously optimistic.

[@PMCraig]

I motorcycle camp too. Get a kitchen scale (or as I refer to it, “a drug dealer scale” 😜). Weight a full fuel canister and an empty canister. I find a full canister is just under 200 grams and an empty is just under 100 grams. So a full canister has about 100 grams of actual fuel. (This is for the small sized canister). I get about 24 x 500ml boils per full canister. After every trip I weigh my canister and write the weight on the bottom with a sharpie. Then I can easily estimates if I need to take a second full canister with me on the bike. When backpacking I just take a full canister if in my estimation a partially filled canister is not gonna be enough.

[@samday6621]

Two things I pay attention to is my shelter/sleeping set up, and food. If weather turns nasty, or someone in the group loses optimism, good food lifts the mood. I like to dish out delicious food and drink, then chuckle that “we’re roughing it!”😄

[@PariahSojourner]

I used a Jetboil for years, then early this year switched to the BRS-3000T Ultra-Light Titanium "stove," and have since burned through countless fuel canisters because even with a foil wrap to block wind, the BRS takes forever to warm up water. So...., back to the ol' Jetboil we go. Oh, Jetboil has a neat French Press attachment if you're into that thing. And..... I love cooking. Cheese keeps, vegies keep, salami and other cured meats keep. Seasonings are light. If time is available and a campfire is allowed, slow cooking a stew in a covered pot/pan over a small fire is exquisite.

[@mtadams2009]

Sadly do to being old and my body is hurting I have to go ultralight. Thankfully this light gear makes it all possible for me to continue backpacking. All of this gear looks very nice and if I was younger I am sure I would give it a try. Take care.

[@andysaverageoutdoor7473]

Although I always have an eye towards weight, I am far from an ultralight backpacker. Been using the JetBoil for several years now and can’t seem to find a reason to switch. Interesting to see you mention the Grayl. I switched to the Sawyer mini last year and am finding I’m not exactly in love with it. Maybe I’ll make another switch.

[@williamgiamerese2673]

my very first backpacking/camping trip was solo on the AT with mostly cheap walmart gear. i didnt have a scale but if i had to guess it was an easy 40-50 lb's with how much water i was carrying for 0 reason. ive since upgraded massively(but still budget minded) and i gotta tell you, unless youre doing massive elevation gains in a day i dont personally find it justifiable to spend basically 4-5x the price to shave off maybe 4 pounds at this point. that first trip, i had; cheapo heavy hammock setup, 2L camelpack, 1.5L smart water bottle, TWO sleep pads, stove, a massive samsung tablet for some reason i cant remember, battery bank, a chair, gigantic heavy cheap sleeping bag, cheap walmart 40L backpack, a ground tarp, extra tent stakes, lensatic compass, pocket chainsaw, big rambo knife that broke mid hike, way overfilled first aid kit, more food than i could have eaten, and probably a ton of other stuff i cant remember. i ran out of space in the bag which was more like a school backpack with a frame, so i lashed a bunch of stuff outside of it. i still managed to do about 10-20 miles a day, on my first time camping/backpacking, while barely having hiked more than 1-3 miles per hike except a few 8-9 mile hikes. i made it all the way across the cumberland valley in PA, to duncannon(~18-20 miles) the last day and honestly probably couldve gone a couple more if it wasnt the end of the hike. while there is something to be said about reducing weight, its not the number one thing i am concerned about. i have since upgraded like i said, but my most expensive single part of gear is my pack, a Teton 60(65?)L pack that i wish i had gotten a bit smaller since its over kill now with my smaller gear. the biggest factor for me now is size, i want to pack it as small as possible to fit more comfort items, like extra batteries, some bulkier tastier food, maybe some beer, a chair if im doing shorter hikes, etc etc. basically what im trying to say is, if youre a beginner backpacker, and youre looking for gear to buy, stay away from the $300+, DCF/sil gear unless you; A) have the money to spare and wont mind if you end up not even liking backpacking, or B) plan on doing like, a 100+ mile hike right off the bat. my current main gear(the essentials ie sleep+cook+pack) cost me maybe ~$360 all told, and weighs about 15 pounds-ish(still no scale but going by amazon listings for what i can remember), and i could shave a couple pounds off by getting a lighter pack because mine is really over kill since i bought it for winter camping with a lot of gear. and thats a; hammock, bugnet, UQ, sleeping bag, tarp, stove, fuel, pack, ground tarp(so my feet dont get muddy trying to get in and out of the hammock), suspension, and water filter. while its far from "UL," its light enough that i can hike comfortably and still have a comfortable camp after a long hike. last time i camped i had my setup+12 pack of beer+snacks and a few other comfort items since i was just maybe a mile from parking, but it still weight far less than my first setup and honestly didnt really cost THAT much more. i also have lighter suspension coming in and hammock chair/gear sling coming in that weighs almost nothing and will make camp so much better for me.

[@travischapman6763]

Need more people with experience in both traditional and UL backpacking. People who hike the AT make a KZbin channel about how to “ backpack” but really it’s just about how to thru hike the AT. They definitely have good ideas and have informed me, but there are arguments against some UL aspects that make more sense. Hiking 20-40 miles a day for 6 months? I bet wt becomes the end all be all. Backpacking for a week or less? There might be other things to consider in how they affect overall enjoyment. You can scale either up or down depending on your needs.

[@outbackwack368]

Still enjoying my $5 Chinese pocket rocket and compact MSR kit, but I need dual purpose for bikepacking... I'm not buying 2 of everything (or 20 of everything like you do!). Always enjoy your gear reviews!

[@HartPhotoAndVideo]

The beauty of being a motorcycle camper allowed me to buy the BIG Grayl! Thanks for the nice pick.

[@vladivostokcanada]

I was worried about the weight and all that but like you said, you know what? I am only a weekend warrior that only camps may be 5 times out of a year and want to be confortable So I don’t care about weight anymore thank you for your inspiration

[@jimfromoregonusa9899]

I "DO"....like your videos. You bring a lot to the table!

[@perryknetter8577]

Thank Dan great video very informative I'm going to order a GrayL George's water purifier Thank you God's Blessing on all your adventures

[@Jarrych83]

I know this is an older vid, but I love the discussion here. People want different things out of their gear. Thru hikers get a lot of the facetime and press and, frankly, the UL approach tends to make a lot of sense for that. For people who want to crash by a lake with a basecamp, do a handful of miles of hiking and putzing around, and enjoy other parts of the "backcountry experience," it's nice that there's options. Heck, MSR sells stainless versions of nearly all their cookware, which is pretty sweet for people wanting to cook over fires or just need the durability.

[@kellycarlen9605]

I went outside the box and bought a Flextailgear Minipump like the one I saw on one of your previous videos. That thing is awesome!!! I had been using an Exped Schnoozle bag (2 oz). The Mini pump is just a touch under 3 oz (I got the one without the lights by accident). So for about an ounce difference you’ve improved my life. I don’t care what Kyle says about you, you’re alright.

[@totoroben]

Got one of those too, and the sleep stuff he recommended. Really excited to use it.

[@jesperhall2391]

Hi Dan, great review as always, thanks for helping us out in the jungle of goods. One question. What was the brand of sleeping pad and tent Eric Hansen was using on your trip together?

[@dhands100]

Great video! So the million sub question, how's the backcountry cooking going?

[@jjhikespa3600]

Eric Hansen and Chef Corso are the best! I have also been inspired by their backpacking trips and attitudes about backpacking. What is the point in going on a trip if it isn’t fun, especially if you only go out a weekend a month? Gear should be useful and efficient but also make you happy to use it. Great video!

[@Roddo731]

Love this Dan, I love my jetboil, so versatile works everyone

[@phchristy2672]

Yeah, When I backpack to Mt Whitney in October 2019, my backpack was 35 lbs. I packed warmth in my pack. All my friends were cold in their tents through out the evening. I was warm in my tent. 👍

[@sophiergabriel3103]

FYI the Grayl filter is rated for 150 litres (ultralight) or 250 for the regular one, the Be Free for 1000 litres and the Sawyer Squeeze for 100,000 litres.

[@quebecpatriot1874]

always depends on the quality of water you start with; out here streams and rivers are crystal clear and very little debris in them so way more than advertised (rule of thumb is when its very hard to squeeze, its clogged thus over and out) proof: i`m still here not dead

[@trent210]

Love it. Hike your own hike.

[@randysavage7351]

Great video

[@beniamincolta709]

Haaa ! I have all three items in my arsenal! Love them all ! Enjoy your hike ! Glad to see common sense coming to fruition!

[@robbyirwin4846]

That's an excellent video!!!

[@saraeang9378]

I absolutely love your approach to the outdoors. Its always refreshing to hear how you choose things because "it works for you" and not "you must buy this b/c...of x".

[@AllTerrainCoffeeCamping]

I bought my Jetboil (I got the Mini Mo) for backpacking about 6 months ago, came home and wanted to test it out so boiled water to use with my AeroPress to make coffee. I swear that the coffee was 10x better using that water instead of an electric kettle and I have been using my JetBoil everyday since then for my Coffee. Yes i seriously Brew my Coffee outside everyday and typically several times a day. Matter of fact, I'm going to go do it right now!

[@supertaft77]

After a power outage I made my wife coffee with My Jetboil and she loved it too

[@alexm2404]

Had a jetboil zip. Took it camping in the Highlands Scotland. A windy day... it couldn't boil water. It took more than 15 minutes for less than 500ml of water. Arrived home and sold it immediately. I then went and purchased a MSR Reactor 1.7L - very pleased, never going back for a jetboil.

[@kmat7163]

I use the Jetboil Stash it is quick at boiling (fuel saving), like all backpacking gear its comes down preference / decisions, my base weight is around 14lbs (not the best but not the worse). Decisions usually come down to $$$$ and weight and if you care to be ultra or don't care you will have a rubbermaid, closet or a room full of gear before you have what you finally what to carry after a few years. I've been hiking for 25+ years but in the last 3-5 years I haven't changed much when it comes to gear, everyone will find what they like and stick with it.

[@FrontlineLLC]

Looking at the new Jetboil Stash. Love how compact it is. The Grayl is worth every penny. Game changer.