Why I DON'T Use This Camping Gear Anymore

[@dirtycommtroop]

When the wife doesnt come I leave most of my crap at home. I went camping last weekend and all i brought was a cooler, stove, chair, and a canvas bedroll. Inside my bedroll is a thermarest air pad, 40 deg sleeping bag, and wool blanket. I slept right on the ground and watched the stars!

[@montechie]

Great breakdown, I probably find these "what gear am I eliminating" more useful than the new gear vids in general. I love the Mondos and the Megamats for vehicle camping, super warm so far and can dial in the firmness vs plain foam.

[@MrBillTroop73]

If you know a freeze is coming, you may want to put your water container with the spout facing down. In your case, you'd want the side with the filter/spout facing down. Since water freezes from the top first, you should still have water flow as long as it doesn't freeze solid. On Scout trips we used to make sure our canteens were positioned this way, then in the morning, turn it right side up and it was easy to unscrew the cap and get a drink.

[@TokinWhiteKid]

Water in a container doesn't freeze from the top down. That's the case for lakes, ponds, the ocean, etc because of ground temperatures and the difference in density between surface water and deep waters. This isn't the case in a container that is surrounded by freezing air. Put a water bottle in your freezer and it will freeze from the outside in, not top down.

[@OYET-te2jn]

As for water, I installed two 10g tanks under my truck where spare used to be. Have a tank heater pad (12v) , small pressure tank, and spigot on bumper. Game changer. Just filter water in with my Milwaukee 18v transfer pump and filter set. Great video!

[@k-mac5511]

That’s a good idea. I’m curious tho.. Why no spare tire? What will you do if a tire gets damaged while your on the highway or in the boonies?

[@bretthawton]

"high speed, low drag, spork" cracked me up!!!

[@darrenjones5885]

I’m in the UK. Mountain Equipment was started in a cowshed on the hill I live on. I used to be able to get pretty much anything from the factory shop at bargain prices. I moved from down to synthetic for general use as its far more convenient to wash. I can drop stuff off at the laundry and not worry about it. Down is fantastic but needs proper care so I avoid it when space and weight are not an issue.

[@red6743]

For anyone wondering, those utensils are Magware by Full Windsor.

[@mattmentzer8610]

Common mistake, but that Buddy Heater does not have a CO sensor. It has a Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS). Since it creates almost zero CO, it's running out of O2 that's the danger. Love the Pyromania album cover on the wall. :)

[@yakinsea]

Actually, reducing the O2 isn't the problem, It is what is replacing the O2, and the fear is that it is carbon monoxide doing so. In a sense, it is an indirect means of sensing dangerous CO.

[@mattmentzer8610]

@@yakinsea source of this ‘data’?

[@yakinsea]

@@mattmentzer8610 Years of haz-mat training. It was basic info that we all knew.

[@mattmentzer8610]

Nothing from the manufacturer who made the choice? Interesting position. CO detectors are after all quite common if that is the actual concern. Should be easy to show a reference at least for your statement.

[@ScullCandy56]

@@mattmentzer8610 Mr. Buddy heaters do produce a decent amount of CO... should probably google that.

[@yondaimehokage2281]

For stainless-steel pans, you can use a couple drops of soap, a handful of pebble/sand, and just enough water to cover the surface and it'll scrub away anything.

[@jerryobrien]

In the Boy Scouts, we cleaned the Stainless steel with sand from a near by wash. Then rinse out and dry, and pack away. Very easy. Hardly any water.

[@TrailRecon]

Great tip!

[@jerryobrien]

@@TrailRecon It is. And you could just wipe it off with water at all. Or just a moist paper towel.

[@chuckrf1502]

I use baking soda and water - boil it for a minute and the frying pan is like new. No scrubbing necessary.

[@gretchenoppriecht3726]

Girl Scout here - same.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

With car/jeep camping use cast iron pots and skillets ,, properly seasoned only needs wiped out ,, good to go ... last a lifetime ... can also be used over a campfire without damage ...

[@wheel1775]

Those Thermarest pads are incredible. I normally have trouble sleeping the first few nights. With that pad, I slept like a rock and was able to sleep on my side and adjust without waking up. They are a little more expensive but they are worth it and Made in the USA!

[@gonzales2011]

Themarest Mondo King is just amazing. I sleep on these equally good as in my bed at home. Just fantastic! Makes camping so much better.

[@jaymcglasson7661]

That's why you go to the Army Surplus Store to get a mummy bag they are very cost-efficient or you being retired Navy you can still go to the PX and pick one up

[@cb3652]

I used to take my husband camping but I no longer do. He takes up way to much space and he's way too loud. I now take a good audio book which packs nicely and a few small bottles of wine.

[@HLsab]

I think camp set up’s are constantly evolving , especially as you get older and require more comfort. Interesting topic and it was fun to watch.Greetings from Australia. 👍🇦🇺

[@TrailRecon]

Agree, I take a few more creature comforts these days. Thanks for watching from across the pond!

[@abcsandoval]

everything made sense. I started paring down my gear the other day. So many 'trophies' just hanging on the wall that I will never use again. You have to be honest with yourself. Been through this before; 20 yrs ago in my 40's when I admitted my climbing years were long gone. They served their use. On to another adventure & life. Every so often, we have to take stock of ourselves and be ready to say goodbye to things that hold so many memories we wanted to recreate but were slated only for their time.

[@editorreilly]

Be aware if that filter froze on your Jerry can, it might be defective. I'd check with the manufacturer. I know with backpacking filters, if they freeze with water in them, they are ruined.

[@NikkiTheOtter]

This. This is (one of the reasons) I disassemble and dry my filter when I'm done with it. I've got a little Katadyn ceramic filter that's survived 2 Colorado winters, and I don't know HOW many Arizona camping trips, as well as Philmont Scout Ranch. Still on the original filter, though it's lost some volume. I keep it around for backpacking because it weighs next-to-nothing, but now I use a 12V bilge-pump with an RV filter because I have 12V available on my trail rig.

[@thesandmanii8109]

The MSR Guardian will handle freezing temps as will most hollow fiber filters. Ceramic filters such as the Katadyn pocket are a different story.

[@andrewmanzanares1445]

I have been watching your videos for around 2+ yrs now, holy cow you are up to almost 500k subscribers!! That is unreal!! Props to you Brad!! Love your videos always! Glad you took a chance and went full time on your channel!! God bless!! Great video!!

[@troytaylor1913]

Now that I'm elderly and weak from chemotherapy I only car tent camp. I can go hiking and rockhounding for short distances but I'm not the Superman I used to be. I eliminated most of the gear I used in the 70's but I carry more gear than I used to because I now camp in -20F. What used to take a whole truck space is now gone. I use zipper cots, collapsable everything even water jugs, all my camp furniture, firepit grill, camping blankets, and tables, except for the chair fits in one 44' x 15" bag. I have another bag for cooking. 2 weeks' worth of food and clothing in dry bags. I find it easier to go if I have everything organized into sports or camping tent bags. It only takes about an hour to pack and get ready instead of days.

[@troytaylor1913]

Stay no trace people and pick up after the idiots. Thank You

[@troytaylor1913]

I'm heating my tent with homemade bio-diesel. I can have dry heated air without carbon monoxide all day with a diesel heater very cheap about 2 bucks per gallon. I know it is more work to make biofuel and takes about 3 days to do a good job but the saving in cost compared to other fuels is worth it. In the winter bio-fuel gels so you have to add kerosene to it to thin it out. Cafes love it when you hall of their used cooking oils. I have enough gear to handle -20 in case of heater failure.

[@FLYBOY123456789]

Early - pup tent...then Marines...then backpacking...then car camping...now...the Ritz with buffet breakfast and happy hour. Great video - appreciate your service, especially your MOS...thank you.

[@scottymac5174]

I recently bought a rechargeable Coleman air pump that I use with my Thermarest. It inflates the pad in minutes. The plus side is it can also deflate your pad just as quickly to make it easy to pack up. Rechargeable off of a power source like a Jackery.

[@dontask7898]

Flextail air pump, on anazon.

[@kebob2150]

100% agree with not using plastic water bottles anymore. I will filter water into stainless or reusable poly containers instead of buying and disposing water bottles. Great list, Brad.

[@Pinetree282]

Those blue foam pads have dozens of uses! Any time you want to insulate yourself from cold. A small, light weight, sitting pad that will even block wetness. Just hook it to your pack or belt loop. Stand on it to increase how warm your boots feel. During a very cold outdoor tracking class with lots of standing around listening, I would just drop it and stand on it. Pick it up and go to the next spot. The best thing, though, is to cut a toilet seat warmer! Cut the oval, remove the center, and put on any cold toilet seat. I can go in an unheated building at -11F degrees and feel nothing but warmth on my backside. Cushy too! The softer closed cell pads are better for bare skin.

[@flynbenny]

The foam pad is also nice for when you have to work under a vehicle in the dirt and rocks

[@CombatMosquitoTrainer]

Very interesting. Thanks

[@Pinetree282]

Thanks Ian! And yes, a piece in the car is great for any needed work done - intentional or emergency. Another thing I do with old blue pads is sew a “pocket” on the inside of any pants I often kneel in - so it lines up with my knees when kneeling: outdoor shell pants, old gardening pants, chore pants, etc. Then put a small (say 5” square) of blue foam in each “pocket” and freely kneel - like a kid! Way more comfortable than outer knee pads too. Can take them out before washing. Or if you won’t be kneeling much that day. These old blue pads you can pick up cheap have a 100 different uses. Anytime you need extra warmth or padding. The thing they work least well is for sleeping on the ground. Lol. (But way better than bare dirt!)

[@CombatMosquitoTrainer]

@@Pinetree282 I use a really thick blue offcut from the local rubber shop whenever I was nailing the boards on a deck. I even gouge out a hole between my knees to hold a box of nails and chisel and a another gouge for the hammer on the RHS. You just push or kick the whole assembly from point to point, saves time and knees. But I never thought about it's camping uses you mentioned so thanks again. Edit: On the big commercial decks I would see the young fellows either eyeing off or scoffing my blue foam tool holder, but a week later they'd show up with their own. Hahaha

[@Propelled]

Wiggy’s sleeping bags. Seriously amazing. Klymit pads. Great even for side sleepers!

[@gearlist]

Great video Brad, always enjoy these detailed overviews. Video idea - maybe a similar video for your 392 build (e.g. why you're not currently running a roof rack, mods, etc.)?

[@jeffgonzalez3872]

Really appreciate this video. I too have recently gone through the exercise of "What do I not need anymore" just like you have. It's healthy to move on from the old overlanding tools. I stopped taking my REI Lounger that I sleep on in the back of my truck. The Thermarest options are the way to go :) .

[@schweglerd]

Devils advocate: you dont have to be nice to stainless steel cookware: with a very small amount of water and a steel wool type dish scrubber you can make it clean without ruining it at all. Same thing with aluminum cookware.

[@MrPiimpslap]

I love using Aluminum or Stainless too, and you're not introducting Teflon into your body or the environment with those coatings.

[@kjm8135]

Just crumple a ball of aluminum foil and scrub the stainless steel and it get nice and clean

[@gregd4391]

@@MrPiimpslap does anyone still make aluminum cookware? If it is not coated with something, the aluminum leaches into the food and it is a neuro toxin.

[@MrPiimpslap]

@@gregd4391 If your kidneys are in good health, you won't suffer from neurological effects from aluminum. If aluminum was dangerous, you wouldn't cook with aluminum foil or wrap food with it.

[@Iamnothere8406]

Make it shiny with Brasso. Don’t use brasso, it’s not good for you.

[@davidcooper3957]

I can’t go camping without my LLbean plaid camp pillow. Love it so much my whole family has one that they use in their house beds. They are especially good when hammock camping. Love the show we have been watching for years

[@gowestoldman4648]

Great video! It goes to show that just because gear is great does not mean it's great for everyone. BTW, those "disposable" water jugs are cheap, light weight, easy to handle, and indefinitely reusable. Four fit well into an old milk crate, and mine are almost 5 years old now!

[@TrailRecon]

Everyone needs to figure out what works best for their individual needs. That’s the cool thing about all the gear…there are plenty of choices to customize your setup so you can enjoy your adventures.

[@jimbeam7160]

@@TrailRecon Don't take this the wrong way but...I noticed the people on this podcast are all gear nerds. They love to have gear, test gear, and most of all.....pray for more gear. I'm amazed at just how rich and decadent Americans are when they have too much money to throw at gear. We are a consumer nation. We shop. We have too much money. Even more disturbing is that old gear (perfectly good) has been replaced with MORE GEAR that's better? Is this insane or is this what car camping does to relatively sane people: they become shoppers and gear nerds? I'm wondering if the gear makes the outdoors.....better? What would happen if you barely had enough for cheap food and gasoline? Would you still travel on gravel roads? Would you still be surprised and energized by natural surroundings that are exciting? We do need so much gear? Other gearheads are military (especially tactical or special forces) and cops. They've all been deluded into thinking that these expensive fetishes are some how powerful and reduces fear. Gear is a fetish. What is a fetish? Sadly, the millenials know....they won't ever achieve anything remotely close to the affluence-buying power-fat that their precessors enjoyed. And if they did........they'd buy stuff and fill their homes with impotent fetishes of power. One thing about poverty, it forces you to improvise and NOT complain about gear that isn't up to snuff. Again......I've always liked this podcast. And it's good to see a decent person share is hobby. And, if I've been negative, don't bother being influenced because "there's always more gear" being marketed.

[@akashakyle4986]

@@jimbeam7160 one way to view it is once you have good gear it lasts waaaay longer than poor utility gear. good gear doesnt end up in a land fill. it gets re sold or donated. your kit is your home and keeps you looked after on the trail. hig quality gear actually permits you t practice minimalism in my opinion. happy travels.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

@@jimbeam7160 ... Have to agree with this ... with camp gear , always think of multiple uses for each piece of gear .... but use of vehicles make it easy to load up ... try to think like a backpacker ...

[@marc31415]

when down gets wet it clumps together more.. and you start getting cold spots in the sleeping bag. synthetic sleeping bags dont do that.

[@obikedog]

I'm so glad you didn't say that Dometic jug was a thing you didn't take! I bought a couple last year and love them, even without the faucet which I've been strongly considering. They are great for filling up a hydration bladder quickly, super durable and most important, leak proof. I haven't done sleeping bags for a good ten years now. A quilt with a good R-value pad is all I need even down to sub-zero temps. One thing about down is it will not get wet from a few days out if it is taken care of. Most of them have good DWR coatings to shed water for a time. For truck camping I love my big-*ss Exped mattress. I would never bring a pad/mattress without a fan/blower/inflator. They are super light and make inflation a joy.

[@USA__WILL]

Walmart has square 5 gallon jugs that store away great for approx 12$ and they also sell PRIMO electric water faucet ($25) that have the same motors as that Dometic product for a fraction of the price.

[@DougHittle]

For an alternate heating option, try a UCO candleier lantern. The 3 candle one puts out 5000 BTUs of heat and you could let it burn all night. Don't need to worry about fumes, it removes any condensation from your tent and provides a nice ambient light for the night. Hang it from then tent ceiling and its all safe with its glass enclosure.

[@smaxvarese3518]

We used these mountaineering in the day and I’m here to say yep, these were great even at altitude. Now that I live a more “normal” lifestyle, we still use them. Good post.

[@toddhoffmaster6057]

Great explanations on all your no longer used items. My wife likes the Buddy Heater, but we have now changed over to the electric blanket. Small and easy to store then just plug it into the battery generator and adjust to desired temperature and there you go.

[@wardperozuk2288]

Thanks for the update Brad! As far as the buddy heater and ice fishing, we’ll tale you ice fishing up here but no buddy heater required. Wood stove, some cooking gear and nice and warm! Cheers.

[@nrs91]

the sleeping roll mat is handy for crawling under vehicles to do repairs on the trail

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

.. or 1/2 of it for a sit pad or tent entry mat to save the knees .... also makes a warm barrier mat for the dog ...

[@Michael_Tran]

Love the gears break down...glad you gave us some informative and hands on experience with these camping gears.

[@victordragano8863]

Keep an eye on the back rest pole pockets at the rear seat of the Star Gazer. I had two new chairs which started wearing through within about 6 hours of use. When I returned them to REI, the customer service rep said they had been getting many returned for that reason. The little pocket is a loose-weave nylon webbing, and it should be a Hypalon pocket to resist the poles poking through the material. I personally didn't like the arm rest set up and the way the chair squeezed in at the sides. Arm position always felt awkward. I'm still looking for a good chair! Cheers!

[@akashakyle4986]

maybe look at helinox sunst its pretty comfy. i love my stargazer-i throw a sheepskin on it

[@jeffdunehew]

The buddy heater issue - you have to hold the prime switch down (the main knob) for around 15 seconds. Then let it go and push it down again to ignite and 95% of the time that will light right away.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

.. If they sit for awhile ,, the nozzle can get plugged with spider web or even corrosion ... use a fine wire or torch file to clear and fires right up ...

[@brads.3674]

Always fun to talk about what gear and why (and why not). I think we all have a pile of "good gear we don't carry anymore" so, it's fun to hear other peoples' thoughts and what and why. The down vs synthetic sleeping bag is a particularly difficult one, for me at least. Both options have so many really compelling pros and few cons. I still prefer synthetic...it can be washed and dried in the home laundry machines and, I seem to be allergic to down. Interesting thoughts on stainless steel...I quit using non-stick and use only stainless (and even some cast iron) on road trips and titanium when backpacking precisely because non-stick does not wear well. Idea for a future video...maybe, you could talk about your transition from backpacking to overlanding? Thanks for another great video. safe travels.

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

My girlfriend uses Stainless (no camping). She told me, you won't like it. She was right. I use non stick and you have to experiment with some of them to find ones that hold up. I have a fry pan now that was made in Italy and looks lumpy. So far so good. Batteries. Yikes what a mess. I bought one rechargable flashlight and I like it a lot. I just can't see buying expensive batts and throwing them out. I am going to switch completely to chargeable. There's a lot of cool tech stuff these days that is practical. I got rid of the old fuel Coleman stove years ago, but I kept it for a long time because it was what I grew up with.

[@MarcelloGTorres]

Excellent content specially coming from actual, first-person experience with the items mentioned. Thank you sir, and keep up the good work!

[@bobvandersluis2503]

Take your blue, thin, old, sleeping pad and put it under your current pad in the roof top tent. It helps and you will always have a extra to lend to a friend that wasn't prepared.

[@cliffmorgan31]

Down is GREAT for backpacking! For very cold CAR camping, nothing beats Wiggy’s bags and warmies. Expensive, and bulky, but awesome.

[@campinkook]

Amen to Wiggy’s,

[@undergroundexplorersoverland]

This video offers an interesting perspective on different strokes for different folks. We use a Chinese Diesel heater most of the time now but some of us still use the Buddy heater. Good gear counts for a lot but it doesn't alleviate the cold when you're getting into or out of bed. We often camp in below freezing temperatures and getting into bed when the temperature in the tent is 70 degrees is a heck of a lot better than when it's 20 degrees, especially if you've gotten cold hanging out beforehand. Most of also still use synthetic sleeping bags even though we own down as well. Bulk usually isn't an issue when car camping and a good synthetic bag can be just as warm as a down bag for a fraction of the price. When camping in most rooftop tents the bulk matters even less (and yes, we have full size pillows too). The sleeping pad is key as you've noted but even with a down bag you still need insulation from the ground. We still use one gallon water jugs for drinking water. Four fit great in the passenger side footwell of most vehicles inside a standard milk crate. For utility water we use the seven gallon Aquatainer and a cleaned laundry detergent container with spout for washing hands and cleaning dishes. For chairs, we're all in on the GCI Roadtrip Rocker. Comfortable and compact.

[@TheRoadTaken]

The laundry detergent container with spout for washing hands is a great idea!

[@woodman9505]

Yes I think the laundry detergent jug is a great idea and we all have one of those sitting a round

[@Harry-zz2oh]

@@woodman9505 I have six or seven. I use them to hold the used oil from the oil changes on my three vehicles. (two Jeeps and a F350 crew cab.)

[@LuaiADV]

How far you’ve gone with this channel is amazing Brad! I feel like I personally know you. So crazy! Love the content! Thumbs up before watching. It’s going to be good 👍

[@caseysimpson1806]

Right there with you on the sporks. I still tent camp, but am in the process of revising my primitive gear. SF

[@manonarcand2146]

I appreciate the process of items not used to now used and reasons for switch. Im completing a bugout bag and my items list for van camping and motorhome. Thx for input :)

[@TrailRecon]

Glad it was helpful!

[@scottca9780]

If you take that huge blue foam pad and cut it up, with a bit of duct tape, you can make an insulating sleeve for that big blue water can (it's even the same color). That's what I used to do to my Nalgene bottle for snow camping to stop it freezing overnight.

[@stevecoscia]

My old Buddy Heater has the same nozzle-clogging issue - very annoying on cold mornings. I gave it away and bought a Coleman catalytic heater - much better. Informative video - thanks.

[@1a1u0g9t4s2u]

Things I no longer take along on a trip...stress from work, I am now retired. Things I do bring, my wife, fishing pole (when near a fishing spot), camping table and chairs to have a nice place to eat dinner with my wife and a bottle of wine.

[@adventureswithgnomie6553]

Get a small UV Light purification system for your river water. We have filtered lake & river water - yeah ended up sick and will never be without a UV Light purification system again.

[@JOB1925pk]

Stainless steel is actually very easy to clean provided you get water in the pan while it's still hot...don't wait until it cools down.

[@thehappyhermit01]

When camping in the AZ Outback, I use a rechargeable lantern but always use have a quality flashlight that uses regular batteries. Always start with fresh batteries and have never had an issue with them dying on me. Of course, I always bring along extra batteries, just in case I find a cave or mine I need to explore. Great content, my man!

[@carmenmartinez2882]

New synthetic bags have come a long way, these days there are some you can keep compressed or at least in their bag without loosing insulation, for me I’ve switched from down to synthetic. Down works for a weekend camp out but I go for several weeks and down will compress on the part I’m laying on leaving me cold regardless of what pad I use. Just my personal experience.

[@carvadero]

Same - down can clump up and create hot/cold spots. I like that synthetic is a consistent thickness.

[@davelier9572]

I switched from propane to an old Coleman white gas stove a few years ago and have found dealing with white fuel has been easier than propane cylinders. This is probably not a popular opinion though!

[@johncolvin2561]

A Coleman fuel stove will work when a propane stove will not.

[@TrailToughTrailers]

I too have and use a standard suitcase Coleman stove (I have well over 20 different styles of stoves/brands) and the reason I still keep it ready to go most of the time is... it ALWAYS works AND I "can" burn many different types of fuel in an emergency. A lot of people think you can't BUT you can though the results aren't the best it will still work. Check some vids on YT regarding this.

[@lancet.346]

Great video! Kinda validates a lot of the decisions I've made regarding my gear. P.S. Semper Fi, Doc.

[@joshleal9811]

I think everything depends on your situation, space and budget. Also, how often and how far you going.. So Brad, if you are not longer using some of that equipment, maybe I can have a good use for them. Just saying. 😉👍👍

[@akashakyle4986]

i wont knock hammock sleeping either tried that this year- amazing! thanks for all the great reviews.

[@davevincent222]

Federal Wildland Firefighter. We used to have Paper Sleeping bags way back. Great Job Brad!

[@zigzagt]

I might be the only one feel batteries are more convenient then rechargables? I've done the opposite and ditched all my recharables for batteries. I go out camping almost every weekend in the summer, with batteries I don't have to take everything out for charging after each trip, things can stay where they are in my storage boxes; Swapping a dead battery takes 10 seconds instead of hours which can make a huge difference on a trip.

[@tacoma_jon]

There’s a few things I will not compromise on. Sleep gear, seating (chair) and utensils. I hate sporks. I have the Coleman utensil set that rolls up real compact that lives in my kitchen box. Oh and my jet boil is a mainstay as well. Even if it is just to boil water. I will never go out without it

[@OGradyGer]

this is a scammer. ignore him. Not the real OP

[@joetarlos]

I love your videos and can understand the importance of having more space. Have you ever done a detailed video on your options (build) and aftermarket accessories that you've put on since buying your jeep and trailer??? I think you have a great well thought out setup for 4-wheeling and camping...

[@Silverback_GMT410]

Man the not carrying batteries was one of the first changes in my set up! As a kid I hated battery powered things as I had to run down to the corner store and buy the cheapest batteries. Now my head torch is the only thing that uses AAA though I got some rechargeable ones.

[@ARXDMOS]

Been through it all. Military sleeping system for me. Literally spent thousands on all kinds of high tech sleeping bags. Only down side is size and weight. But. Im also 250 pounds bench oress 465 and squat 495. So i could care oess about an extra couple pounds for what i cinsider essential gear. And when weather permits i leave the mummy bag behind. Which is not too often as most my outdoors time is winter based

[@maybelline888]

I love my Mondo sleeping pad, it was well worth the money and a total game changer. I also purchased the little battery powered pump for it- which makes me love the Mondo even more.

[@wheel1775]

You might want to try it with just ambient pressure. I thought I wanted a firmer pad, but I feel like a slept better when the pad just inflated on its own.

[@tfeltmat2903]

At home we use an AquaTru countertop RO filtration system. Before we embark on a camping trip, we filter enough water to completely fill up our Dometic water can, so we get clean, pure water for drinking and cooking. We really love it!

[@ranger275th9]

The Mr Heater buddy does not have a carbon monoxide sensor. It has a ODS(Oxygen depletion sensor), so when the oxygen gets too low it will shut down. I don't want to be "that guy" that points out technicalities on every single thing. But great video, hope things are going well for you and thank you for taking the time to make the video.

[@explore_off_road]

I like your comment on the larger things, "I have a Jeep, I don't care." That's what we (my wife and i) think. We aren't back packing, we have much more space. Ya, I still get some backpacking and mountaineering stuff cuz of its compact size and weather ratings ... I still love ground tenting... so we have a queen size Coleman blow up mattress... AND proper pillows from home. We agree with Regina. Hee hee Also, your cookware... definately agree with ya there... and again designed from backpacking. But my thought is,... most people that stuff will last forever, because many don't go out as much as you, I'm sure. So nonstick may in fact last them for YEARS! Just don't use metal utensils and it last forever.

[@aaronfuentes5919]

Take it one step further and go "ultra non stick". At home& on the road. Not very lightweight, but I don't use butter or oils, no clean up, & lasts waaay longer. I use zyliss brand, but I think 'foodie' & a few other brands make ULTRA non stick.... Another hot tip, camping stools make great foot rests & easier to use for camp chores or fishing. Think about it.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

@@aaronfuentes5919 ..... Cast iron rules ... properly seasoned , wipes out easily ,, lasts a lifetime .... also can be used over a campfire .. or as a weapon ..

[@Donnut123]

Brad, I used a thermarest for years, then I switched to Nemo's air pad with built in foot pump. Game changer for me. It's insulated and good down to about 30º, although I have taken it Klondike camping in sub-zero weather. Of course now that I have a baby, my wife pulls a Forest River 17BHS Travel Trailer with her Gladiator, and he have a house on wheels!

[@ontheedge95]

Could not agree more with getting a down bag over a synthetic. After many cold, back country nights with a synthetic bag, I made the switch to a down quilt last year. Day and night difference. Better in every aspect.

[@stephenfoster2532]

Unless it gets wet

[@scottymac5174]

Down sleeping bags are the best. I currently have four down bags, going back to the mid 1980's. I normally carry two on my trips. A 32 degree bag and a 20 degree bag. If it gets really cold, I stuff the 32 degree bag in the 20 degree bag.

[@DHaworth100]

I'm surprised you didn't get rid of the RTT since most are going back to ground tents. I thought about the lifesaver container except you have to keep the filter wet at all times. Keeping it wet when not camping is a bit of an inconvenience.

[@blain5827]

The continues compression of down has the same affect, that’s why they usually come with a loose bag for storage

[@RonSpilker]

For lighting, your can get things that run like you already do with your rechargeable ones, but still can change the battery.

[@sandralutz-rodriguez2864]

love this Brad, really interesting to see the evolution of your gear.

[@lookwhaticando447]

You had me sold on the magnent utensils and at 34.00 I was in but was disappointed to see it was 34.00 for 1 of each and not 4 of each. Thanks for bringing them to my attention, however I think for now we will stick with the normal utensils for now.

[@11bangbang84]

Exactly what I said

[@jimbeam7160]

At that price, who couldn't knock off that product for less? Those utensils (a stamped piece of metal with a magnet) should be as cheap as 2$ a piece. Do that, and you'll have a market niche to conquer.

[@SMafam5]

Tapirus stainless steel sporks set of 5…last forever & cheaper than magware.

[@JarradShaw]

Yes! No one does this. They only show new stuff. Especially as much you all get or emails you have to, argh, raffle through. Thanks Brad

[@BlackthornBetty]

After overlanding for a year I agree you pick and choose what you let take up space. Comfort usually takes precedent. I agree with this list. Especially the only having rechargeable equipment. I bought a really nice 12v electric blanket off of Amazon for maybe $30. It would be just enough warmth to keep your tank from freezing in the winter.

[@k3h7d8u2]

I got a thermarest Exped megamat 10 for winter a few years ago. Best decision I've ever made.

[@fscottgray9784]

I just bought a thermarest and I agree that it is great. I personally like a cotton or flannel lined sleeping bag vs. the nylon shell units. Your suggestions are all spot on and full of great information. As you get older you will find a higher seated chair is a great camp tool.

[@michaelmattern8051]

1000% on the ThermaRest. I bought one about 5 years ago. It’s a MondoKing. I don’t care how packed out I am, I always have room for it. Can’t sleep without it in my tent cot. You touched on it in the video but these actually have an “R” rating and will insulate you from the cold ground/floor. I prioritize sleep when camping so it’s worth every penny!!! Same with pillows. Full size pillow, only way to go. I also discovered super soft earplugs to minimize ambient noise (wind rustling tent flaps) and that was huge for me sleeping.

[@scottymac5174]

Frontrunner makes a really great camp cooking utensil kit. Four sets of knives, forks, big and small spoons. Kitchen knives, BBQ tongs, spatula, ladle, chopping board in a compact heavy duty canvas bundle. Good quality stuff. It all packs up into a 16"x 6" x 1" thick bag. Everything is right there. You don't need to dig around looking for anything.

[@obchristo]

I've had it with built in, rechargable lighting. To many limitations on runtime. Now I use Sanyo Eneloops rechargable batteries on everything and bring an extra set of both AAA and AA along with a 8 bay USB charger. I can swap out if the batteries goes low and just keep going.

[@ralans17]

I’ve also bought my last little green single-use propane canister. When that thing runs out, I’ll be using my new 5lb refillable tank from Ignik. 👍

[@gigilaroux762]

Where did you get the magnetic silverware? We don’t take dishware, we use biodegradable plates bowls so we use next to no water and also use a skottle to cook on which is iron and can be wiped off. The biggest hassle time drag and body energy for us is cooking and washing afterwards. Considering we camp only a few times a year it just takes up too much time esp in cold weather.

[@TrailRecon]

We have the silverware on TrailRecon.com. Great to hear about your low water use setup, a good option for many folks.

[@peterpiper487]

I've known people who've gone camping without any of that stuff. They take along: a flint for making a fire, a hand saw for cutting wood, something to sleep on or in, depending on the weather, some food and water some eating utensils, a rechargeable head lamp and a tent. They go to sleep when the sun goes down and forget about lanterns and all the rest of the junk that people bring with them. And they don't seem to be any worse for the wear. Camping has become BIG BUSINESS for camping stores!

[@Nessal83]

Yup

[@outbackeddie]

I quit hardcore camping like that a long time ago. I like to be comfortable when I camp. I even took a power station and a small flat-screen TV on my last camping trip. I watched a movie and had popcorn and a glass of wine in my tent. And no - there were no bears in this area to worry about. The only thing I forgot to bring was a butler.

[@davelandefeld]

to much stuff.

[@Youtubeuser1aa]

Cool story

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

.. Whatever works for others is accepted by me ..... Just get out and enjoy the beauty of Nature ...

[@kachiri]

My cooking is simple. I don't bother to have multiple pots/pans cooking different foods to make a meal. Just a simple meal you cook in one camp pot or pan, with the rare exception if I were gonna have an egg with something else, I'd use my small pan and maybe my camp pot, depending what I cook with that egg. But that's rare.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

... I've had a few outings up to about 3 days with NO cooking at all ,, just stop at Subway on the way and load up on half dozen subs.. simple hiking stove for coffee .... and relax ..

[@timdryer]

15:20 Cookware: cast iron!

[@UTADV]

Time and experience are the best filters in tuning your gear, which you demonstrate well with this clip. Comfort, warmth and protection along with reducing one's camping footprint all well worth the investment and time.

[@johnswanson3741]

Little buddy heater...glad you came to realize that there are other options that eliminate the need for that bulky item. I just lite my Coleman cookstove for a short time to heat up my pickup topper in the morning to warm things a bit while dressing. Of course I crack open a slider window for fresh air. Sometimes I have all my breakfast items ready the nite before so I can just turn the heater down and let things start to cook while squirreling around if I am on a duck hunting trip an early matters!

[@living-wellon-less5669]

I have done a lot of cold weather camping, sometimes 10 to 20 below zero directly on the ground with only a tarp and tent floor between me and the ground in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the synthetic bag is good to keep on hand for those unexpected cold nights, you can use it like a mattress or place your down bag inside the synthetic bag which can keep you not only alive at 0 degrees but have you sweating if you aren't careful! And a kerosene heater is better, larger but still better because unless you are moving campsites every day you can turn it down and keep the tent in the 50 to 60 degree range for a long period of time without having to fill it more than once a day and after a couple of days the ground temp under the tent rises and it is very comfortable!

[@marquenjoubert]

I don't like non stick for health reasons. We use organic paper towels to wipe utensils clean before washing. And with stainless steel you must heatsoak the metal with oil before cooking.

[@Sean71976]

Regarding the trailer on the trails... What happens when you encounter opposing traffic? Backing the trailer on a trail must be a pain. What us the etiquette? Have you had issues with other offroaders?

[@wildandloudmama]

Oh wow. I always wanted a down sleeping bag but I have terrible allergies and always assumed I couldn’t use them. Love the water and utensil set. Great video.

[@vernvartdal6479]

I have gone through very similar evolutions with gear, so I can relate to everything in this video. I started adventuring exclusively as a backpacker. I began with 3 season down and thermarest old school, and bivvy sack out of a Honda CRV with a pretty light, but large backpack. The weight police made me go smaller and lighter. I found the CRV (slept in the back), could not get me to all trailheads and overlooks. The 4Runner changed everything. Mattress in the back full pillow and a 4 season down bag works great square bottom, use open not mummied. Molle rack in back for organization. Spray bottles for cleaning. Refill water bottles out of 2 gallon squares toss in fridge. Clothes in laundry basket. Food in box/fridge. Recovery up top with Jerry cans when needed. Battery to rechargeable. No setup/tear down. Lithium to run fridge, charge devices. Car to charge lithium when base camping solar. Sociology nut, so equal cooking at camp and eating in town with locals.

[@bobmirror7164]

Yep. It can be that easy. I often wonder why so many people try to complicate things. I love my 5-Star car hotel.

[@mariesonoma]

Thanks for sharing. Keep rolling

[@overlandcamping]

Good tips from you! We always take too much stuff with us that we never use or don't need. Especially the idea with the batteries. I wouldn't have thought of it without you. The goal must be to travel as light as possible. Greetings from Sweden 🇸🇪

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you! Now if I can just get my wife onboard with less is more! 😂

[@tc1uscg65]

Sleeping bags. After years of using them (boy scout campouts), I'll never give up my ECWS mod system. 4 seasons and using the Gortex bivy, weather solid. I'll put up with the bulk for not needing 2 or 3 various down bags for temp and environment changes. (cheaper too). JMO For sleeping pads/pillows, I use Klymit brands. The Static V for cold weather. Even take a SMALL rechargeable pump. The space it saves is perfect.

[@sofloflow]

I live & camp in Florida, so I actually prefer the non insulated sleeping pads bc its warm enough already over here lol! During the Summer Ill also bring a portable fan, need to find a better one though, tired of replacing the AA's on it & id like one thats a bit larger.

[@poppavein1]

Consider a carbon steel frying pan. It is non-stick like cast iron, without the weight. Will last forever, and if you damage the seasoning (which makes it non-stick), then you can renew it. No soap allowed, just brush with hot water. And you can use it over a fire.

[@MichaelRodgersCh]

Fun video, lots of good ideas. But please do some research on the long term health issues related to non-stick (not just for you, but the watershed). I won't get in to it since I'm just some guy on the internet. But look in to it. Stainless is easy to make non-stick with a little fat, or get a carbon-steel skillet and season it.

[@codemangleason3986]

Thank You for Your Experience i want to add that some Water Filters are no longer safe to use after they have froze, so Please check Temperature Ratings on Filters