Why this backpack is my TOP CHOICE

HMG Southwest 40L bit.ly/3ABcPGQ
HMG Junction 40L bit.ly/2UaocpD
HMG Windrider 40L bit.ly/3CJaATQ
BUDGET BACKPACK Granite Gear Crown2 60 bit.ly/3jMiOSf
Some of my other favorite backpacking gear..
TREKKING POLES bit.ly/3hsHLR6
SLEEPING PAD bit.ly/2KNVZAf
OTHER SLEEPING PAD amzn.to/2XfSxRz
HOODIE bit.ly/3mXRXCn
TENT bit.ly/35auKqq
FAVORITE LUNCHES bit.ly/3aKamNG
BACKPACK
DOWN JACKET bit.ly/2EBbx6M
RAIN JACKET
CHAIR bit.ly/3eecrD1
INSECT REPELLENT (individual packets) amzn.to/2Yq6zjt
NECK GAITER bit.ly/2WVkZZK
SLEEPING BAG amzn.to/2QmWTTg
PILLOW bit.ly/3hGKPsp
COOK POT amzn.to/2EwYPpJ
DITTY BAG bit.ly/3f6VeLW
FOOD BAG bit.ly/3f6VeLW
STOVE amzn.to/2DGl75E
SPORK amzn.to/2CPV9em
LIP SAVER amzn.to/2sY1Ztr
FOOTPRINT amzn.to/2ItFtU2
BATTERY BANK amzn.to/2H4wJkz
TOOTHBRUSH bit.ly/2VpLC7c
KNIFE amzn.to/2VkhVqw
FIRE STARTER amzn.to/2VgBP5O
HEADLAMP amzn.to/2wiTD4C
GPS
WATER BOTTLE HOLDER bit.ly/3fdyzOF
WATCH amzn.to/2NFm9UX
SUNGLASSES amzn.to/2PZ3C7a
HAT amzn.to/2W3lvWz
🚨FOLLOW ME🚨
Instagram bit.ly/35gLzNu
Facebook bit.ly/2QG4BaP
📷MY CAMERA GEAR📷
MAIN CAMERA amzn.to/3gxi8zX
MAIN LENS amzn.to/3q83LVW
ND FILTER amzn.to/2DR26wM
GIMBAL amzn.to/2Lm38VK
CAMERA CLIP FOR BACKPACK amzn.to/2VjlihB
Hyperlite Mountain Gear. Best day pack. Best backpack 2021. How to choose a backpack. Which hyperlite backpack is best? Ultralight backpacking backpack. Camping.

[@droghaden]

My Alexa literally played your announcement throughout my house and my wife got super confused lol

[@DanBecker]

YES! 😂😂😂

[@jeremiah1528]

Sure it did lol....

[@bmcgee4634]

🤣

[@brittanycollins802]

I purchased the HMG southwest last year after watching your videos (and got a sweet discount from Backcountry with your code). The pack treated me very well and I have nothing but good things to say about the quality. I did decided to go the custom route and order a LiteAF pack but the HMG is definitely still going to sticking around for certain trips 😊

[@jeffreyfuchs3379]

Hyperlite says the sweet spot for the packs are as follows: Windrider: AT Junction: PCT Southwest: CDT

[@DanBecker]

Good info!

[@m_soko]

Agree!

[@gabbette999]

Clearly I need the other two models to be complete….😳

[@redriver6541]

I absolutely love your last name guy. If it were mine, I'd change my first names to Give Two....lol. Thanks for the info man.

[@zacharydixon4130]

Love your videos, unfortunately you mis-stated the liters that the packs are available in. Model 2400’s are 40 liters; 3400’s are 55 liters; 4400’s are 70 liters. I just got a 2400 Junction in black with a assortment of attachments just like the one behind you and am about to take it into the Sierras. Super excited. You’re right, HMG packs are really so good. I’d personally encourage everyone to try and find the discipline to fit in the smallest pack size possible, it’s rewarding.

[@DanBecker]

Yep. Story of my life! That’s why I try to avoid saying stats out loud LOL!

[@retireddac]

Great video! Thank you. I am from Maine and wanted to support a local company but their website did not clarify half of what you just did. I personally don’t thru hike or require this level of equipment for performance reasons. I have a fused back and compressed spine so switching to UL backpacking equipment has allowed me to get back out there and put way more pain free miles in. Thanks again.

[@kookiemoose]

I down the road, so I went over to check them out. I found the part of the old mill they were located in, and not knowing where to go I found myself walking onto the factory floor of Hyperlite. An employee introduced himself, asked me a few questions, and proceeded to fit me for a new backpack. How cool is that 😂

[@ms7fam433]

Came close to buying the Junction which I really like... Decided to go with Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight...and I'm loving it.

[@lancegurski9283]

I love it every time I see some B roll footage of your Pictured Rocks hike!!!! Munising is my home town and I’m glad you got a chance to do the lakeshore trail. Happy hiking!!!

[@AndrewWisler]

My experience with outside netting in actual use in a really wet environment is that stuff never really dries out in the mesh anyway. I do like being able to see stuff, though.

[@DoseofDirt]

Awesome info! I’ve been looking at other packs similar to these because the eight of the pack is awesome for the weight you can carry! I remember being shocked the first time I weight my current go-to pack and it was over 5 lbs! Easy way to shave 4 lbs!

[@viktor.egelund]

3400 NorthRim with 6 pods here. Love it.

[@gabbette999]

I love mine too- I have the 40l southwest on black and the whopping 70l in white- something you didn’t mention which is my FAVORITE part of this pack is how awesome the white fabric is!!I For me it was a game changer in the ease of my pack. I can see everything that’s in there, it should be marketed as having a light inside! I never thought Id want a white backpack, but you can’t argue with the functionality- & now the white looks kinda punk to me!

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

Yeah, I’m a huge fan of the white. Plus, very easy to see while at camp. Also reflects light away from you when hiking in the sun.

[@inkblots-life1111]

Love my HMG Windrider 3400. Holding strong for a few years now 🌲✌🏼

[@patriotkennethburlingham7059]

That's why I love my Gossamer gear Mariposa 60! The back stretchy pocket.

[@HikingWithWhiskers]

Awesome!! Thank you for sharing!!!🥾🥾⛺️

[@CheeseOnEverything]

I like the osprey exos 48 for my lightweight setup. Similar design but better pockets, waist belts, frame, and weighs 2.3 lbs.

[@1wetpaint]

Fun video and informative usual. Thanks Dan.

[@neemancallender9092]

Hi good video explaining the three packs Personally I would go straight to the Granite Gear Crown 60 5 oz heavier $150 less expensive Granite Gear makes superb gear I have the Blaze 60

[@matthewpulliam7473]

+1, Windrider is a fine pack. HMG could do better with the seam taping around the hydration port, but that’s an easy fix.

[@jgeisler]

Yes, the Granite Gear Crown 2 is definitely a great/cheaper alternative.

[@VenturingValerie]

I love these packs! I got the Windrider at an REI garage sale for only $100 because there was a small (and easily fixable) tear in the front mesh pocket. It is a super reliable pack and I got a great deal on it!

[@jaycearboleda8806]

Rei carry them now?

[@VenturingValerie]

@@jaycearboleda8806 yes they do but in my experience they can sometimes be hard to find, I would call ahead first and they can tell you if they are currently in stock or not.

[@biomorphic]

Minimalist pack (like it should be), done with great materials, sold at premium price and made in Mexico, with an enormous profit. This is a company that knows what it's doing.

[@FgtRtd]

Crazy thing is if you Google where they're made it still comes up first that they're made in Maine 😂 they used to always say that they'd never cut costs and move production, just glad I got one before they did

[@FgtRtd]

Crazy thing is if you Google where they're made it still comes up first that they're made in Maine 😂 they used to always say that they'd never cut costs and move production, just glad I got one before they did

[@jmvldz]

I just went on a backpacking trip to the Trinity Alps and I had the exact same setup with my Peak Designs camera clip on one side and my Garmin inReach on the other 😂

[@BakerBoysDad]

Hey Dan great video as always. I have a Zpacks Arc Blast. You used to have a Zpacks bag and made the switch a while back. You seem solidly in the HMG camp now. Is there anything specific about why you ditched Zpacks for HMG?

[@GratefulTrekker]

Wow how to decide they all look great!!!

[@aaalllen]

There was a SW 3400 at my local REI. I ended up returning it. The hip belt is sewn in and i'm linebacker sized... so the wrap around part didn't wrap around enough. The hip pockets themselves didn't seem very long or deep. Maybe it's so they can sell you their fanny pack or phone pocket (I have the GG one already). I also felt it shifting when I loaded it to 35lbs w/ a bear canister vertically (website said 40). Maybe load lifters would have helped. It looks like some folks DIY'd their own lifters with some extra webbing and buckles.

[@mandellaswanderlustadventu6160]

Love my Junction and love that it's made in my home state :)

[@kerriwoodbyrne8166]

If cost is really an issue for folks, I recommend the 3F UL 40+16. It is a roll-top, frameless pack with huge built-in hipbelt pockets, roomy side pockets, and a front pocket. My favorite thing about it is that the rolltop secures down on the sides instead of in the middle like a stuff sack.

[@jjhnce9379]

Thanks for this advice !

[@RealFooking]

Frameless = bad

[@middleearthchronicles2269]

@@RealFooking they have framed models too in multiple size and materials.

[@gedfi]

I got the black version for added durability, but in hindsight I must say I wish I had bought the white version. The 3400 is pretty "cavernous" and it gets hard to find your stuff if you need to dig through it. Would have been easier with a white color.

[@tamaracheeseman183]

Thanks for the info. I will keep it in mind. I'm currently using the REI Flash 55, which is lighter than my previous, Jade 60( I don't remember which company made it). I do miss the bells and whistles of the Jade 60. The Jade is my go to when I have to haul things up from the county road to my house during winter storms.

[@kerriwoodbyrne8166]

I believe ttheee Jade is a GREGORY.

[@tamaracheeseman183]

@@kerriwoodbyrne8166 Thank you. I couldn't find the label anywhere.

[@mountainman978]

As much as I've loved my hmg sw3400 I've recently got my ULA circuit x and this this is so much more comfortable personally

[@1wetpaint]

Love my ULA!

[@martinvaracka4837]

Looking to choose UL backpack, thanks for this DB

[@mprudhon]

Thanks Dan

[@himboslice_]

I've backpacked 4 trips in the past year. My initial setup is similar to your "fail" setup with an osprey and carrying non UL or gear I don't need lol. Starting to get more dialed in and am leaning toward this. Intruiged by their tents as well. Slowly upgrading my more budget(REI) options to higher end / UL.

[@seanleal2292]

Would you consider doing a video on a heavier weight pack that can hold heavier loads better? I personally would like to know if you are carrying 35lbs in something like the osprey Atmos will that feel just as comfortable as a good UL pack loaded up with 14lb baseweight and 3liters of water and multiple days of food making it around 25lbs total.

[@HikeRx]

I like the Southwest because it's the most sturdy

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Great video! I have never really looked into those differences before. Great information in this video. Dang…I guess I will have to buy a new backpack…again…I have a problem….🤣✌️. Is there a rehab for my addiction to buying backpacks…😊👍

[@TurbidDread]

Hiking where it's often wet/rainy the PNW! Come on Dan! haha

[@walkwise4831]

2400 southwest🔥💣🔥 fantastic for eastern sierra usage. JT PCT, Utah, Arizona canyon trekking. Simply ❤️ this pack!.

[@dbasarich]

Great video! I just bought the Hyperlite summit 30 Liter....If I wanted to add a little volume what is your advice? Maybe an external accessory?

[@evanpelaccia1772]

Love my southwest 3400

[@guitarhiker4449]

I like the junction 2400! A few things i would like to see would be button snap closure instead of velcro. Sorry i just don't like velcro! Lol.. Load lifting straps would be a nice feature aswell. Lastly maybe offer the option of a removable HDPE internal frame sheet instead of 2 internal frame stays. Being removable a placed into an internal pocket inside the back of the pack would also allow you to substitute it for a foam pad which also gives your back a little cushion. For heavier loads you would just use the frame sheet and replace with a foam sit pad or fiesta mat for lighter loads. Soo many cool things you can do to step up an already great pack! I would settle for the button snaps and load lifters even if only as an option. Hike on!

[@FgtRtd]

I know this comment is a few months old but I've added load lifters to mine , there's a few good tutorials on the process online 👍 really does help

[@sueb860]

Windrider net pouch...think Appalachian Trail from New Jersey to Maine. Lots of rain.

[@SupTim1]

Thanks!

[@Ohios1Cheesehead]

😂😂😂🤣😂 The fishnet comment had me laughing

[@shen6585]

Hi Dan, do you have a recommendation for a larger pack? I’m going on a 9-day canoe camping trip and plan to camp throughout the Tour du Mont Blanc hike which is 10 days. I’m afraid 55L is too small, and may need a minimum of 70L, with a load of maybe 50 lbs? I like the Osprey Aether Plus 70L, but it’s like 6 lbs heavy…pls let me know your recommendation!

[@jlee91780]

Hi Dan, if you are saying take the 3400 over the 2400 to have flexibility to pack more, then why not take the 4400, I am really debating this, don't need to pack so much for myself, but sometimes bring my girlfriend and need to carry stuff for her. The 4400 does have a bigger circumference though so may be more cumbersome, brush against stuff if hiking through bushes? Also, black versus white, I like the look of the white more, looks more sleek, but will obviously will look dirty, which might also be a look in itself, but the black is stronger dynema material I read, would you recommend black just to not tear apart if planning to fully load this pack ?

[@KristenDavidJacobs]

Question does the black HLP get hotter in the sun does that effect your gear or your food ? Really on the fence on buying the white or black

[@ellag723]

Great video, thanks. There is one argument pro Southwest which is never mentioned anywhere. I went for the SW 3400 just because the Junction was not available in Europe at that time. Later I was very happy when I realized that I am having much less trouble when checking in the backpack for flights. A net on the outside would have been a problem. Love my HMG!

[@DanBecker]

Good thoughts!

[@jeremyrobinette2563]

How’s the quality since moving production to Mexico?

[@kontiii]

hey Dan, what's the smallest size (height) you can roll this down to ? thanks

[@cultofcedar]

Oof I was stuck between the arc blast and a hmg and leaning towards hmg but 20% off and 12% cash back was a bit too appealing so I’ve got a Southwest in black in the way to replace my 5lbs+ Mystery Ranch sack…. It’s great for hauling a lot but if I just stick to the essentials I can split my weight in half lol

[@wazoologist]

Would you like white or black? Shame they don't make some earth colours, then I might buy one. If I buy the black, I'm certain within 6 months they would release a green, brown or camo! 🤣

[@jck197]

I’m looking for a recommendation on a pack for the JMT in the Sierras. I’m going for 5 days and I’m curious as to how comfortable these packs are. Also I’m very open to suggestions. My goal is to be around 25 lbs or less in my pack for the trip. Thank you

[@AndrewWisler]

Load lifting straps are mostly helpful in packs that extend far above the shoulder straps. In a pack like this designed for lighter loads, load distribution is best managed by loading the pack slimmer and using compression straps to shift the weight closer to the back.

[@AndrewWisler]

Also, measuring carefully to determine your pack size and “rounding up” gives you versatility to be able to shift the weight between your hips and shoulders through the day.

[@NathanSmith-fl2xg]

What kinda weight you throwing in the bag and how did it handle it? Also nice review

[@smitty0421]

Someone may have already stated but as you stated, the 2400 is 40L but the 3400 is 55L and the 4400 is 70L. HMG has actually renamed to the Liter rather than cubic inch designation.

[@10Ishtaar]

Is there a place forward 2 liter water bladder to attach?

[@markgimple108]

Hey Dan have you try the ULA ohm 2.0 .

[@agnostichaos]

Losing shifters not bearing. The shoulder straps are bearing the weight.

[@jtact5487]

Anything bigger than a pair of sock has issue drying in a 6x6 mesh pocket Thinking your gonna dry out a rain fly or ground cloth will be disappointing. Better off hiking til you find a patch of sun and hang your wets. (I'm a big fan of HMG also)

[@duncdunc76]

@j tact. My thoughts exactly. Thats why I went with the solid fabric panels on my Southwest 2400, but Dan makes a point about being able to see the gear in those pouches when ya get them in mesh and I can see that as a valid useful feature for some especially since the mesh that HMG uses seems to be pretty durable in comparison to other manufactures choices.

[@jtact5487]

@@duncdunc76 oh the mesh is HQ, but if you have a pattern or are on the trail for more than a weekend, you know where your gear is. You don't need to have a mesh pocket to know your sleeping gear and down jacket are on the inside. Everything has a place, more time you're out their the better you know your set up

[@duncdunc76]

@@jtact5487 Ya I here ya on that. Just thinking that if your using the outer main pocket as a stash pocket then visibility might be nice if ya happen to have lots of loose smaller items in the pouxh but I certianly agree digging around by feel or just looking in like you would in your main compartment isnt all that big of a deal for me at least. Of course lots of pack companies out there are making front zippered pack bags so you can open the front like a duffel bag. I always thought that was kinda unnecessary because like you said when ya pack your bag everything has its place especially in your main compartment but those bags sell and manufactures keep making them. So apparently some peeps out there really like seeing there gear.

[@jeremyrobbins9064]

You ever try the ULA OHM 2.0?

[@seattlegrrlie]

i do not like hip belt pockets. the only thing in mine rust now is a chapstick because I felt like I had to at least put something in them

[@00Toon]

Do water reservoirs work with the southwest 3400?

[@rodoworld8400]

Just. Heads up hyperlite has some of the worst customers service. Confusing return/ exchange policies and only contact on their end is an auto response bot.

[@backpacker3421]

Gee, if only there were some part of the country with trails that is well know for being very rainy... Some area say near a Sound... Probably in the northern part of the country, maybe out west... north and west... nah, can't think of it.

[@TheSurfskidude]

Picked up the 2400 Southwest and you’re right, I should’ve gotten the larger one only because with all my gear ( including a drone ) I have to take a little extra to pack it properly. It is perfect for what I got it for 2-3 overnight but I’m just a little lazy in the intricate packing area :). Great pack. Thanks for the review

[@TheSurfskidude]

Extra time to pack that is

[@inasvanonsem6830]

Is it possible to ship to New Zealand?

[@AccidentalHiker1]

I bought a Gossamer hip belt pouch. My hip belt pouch on my bag is too small. And I didn't want a fannypack.😁 Hyperlite doesn't make XS torso packs. Soo maybe one day they will. Neither does Granite Gear.😭😭

[@-humveehoove-6106]

Are the hip belts removable ?

[@Rita_lin]

What website is trustable for buying this backack in EU?

[@backpacker3421]

If you are gearing up and cost is an issue... spend on your sleep system first, but your backpack second... then spend on your tent. All the rest can be cheapo budget super used gnarly stuff and you'll still be happy. But if you can't get a good night's sleep, you'll be miserable. If your load is being carried wonky or your straps/belt are always digging in, you'll be miserable, and lastly if your tent is not cutting it, you'll be miserable. Tents especially, the cheap ones will do the job and the extra money mainly spares you weight on your back. Backpacks are kinda the same, the cheap ones will be ok if not great. But a high quality sleep system will be a MASSIVE lifestyle improvement.

[@michaelkork6773]

All climbing ropes use dyneema as the core material. It’s how such absurd strength can be attained without much weight

"Just take the bigger one"... this statement scare me.. I was thinking of the middle one as 70L looks biiiiiig.. should I realy buy 70L ? (Plan to do the ECT Canada this summer)

[@slyfox6134]

Dan. Have you ever tested out the ULA backpack?

[@DanBecker]

Not yet!

[@robinsavard84]

Have you tried the LiteAF?

[@briteshikes5099]

Hyperlite needs to learn what lycra mesh is. Put it on their packs. Then take over the world!

[@musingwithreba9667]

The word "however" is a fancy but 😉

[@froggyonthepct9947]

Washington Dan on the pct

[@galinswigart]

I just don't understand the lack of load lifter straps on these packs. To have a framed pack that has a waist belt but doesn't have that feature doesn't compute with me. Ideally, your loads are light enough that they aren't totally needed. But when they are needed, you'll be happy to carry the 2 ounces they weigh. Sometimes you need extra water, extra food, etc... If I'm carrying more than 20 pounds total, no load lifters is a dealbreaker. But a lot of people love these packs so maybe I'm the weirdo.

[@abraham5340]

Hi Dan

[@_dnk]

okay are the multiple camera angles necessary

[@jasonwebb7978]

I didn't realise "ounce" was a monetary unit in America. (I know you were talking about weight but it came out as if you were talking about monetary cost).

[@craigcampbell6961]

When I was 71 I did the JMT and at full food, fuel and water resupply, loads were 36 and 46 pounds. I used the HMG 4400 and it was just fine. Just an add on: I've used quite a few exterior frame (Jan Sport+) and interior frame (North Face+) and frameless (GoLite+) backpacks. Jan Sport were great when carrying an extra 20-25 lbs of climbing gear. I wore them all out. I've used the 4400 Porter for 10 years and got the larger pack so it was also good for winter big volume. Got the 2400 for long day cross country ski trips so room for enough warm clothing, etc. when stopping (or emergency overnight) and then the Daybreak (original version) for day hikes. Also use the Stuff Pack as big stuff sack and for summiting or around town.

[@raptordc5]

I really need to try these out before I judge too harshly but being a ex army guy... I have many concerns if they can carry any weight.

[@stephanmedlin7323]

Either won’t do. Atom+ Backpack!

[@kimberlypenney7216]

WHAT you did not mention Outdoor Vitals backpack! It has two net pockets ( perfect size netting) on the back, it dries quick, super durable. I also love being able to get in from the top (fold over and clip) or the zipper down the middle back. It also has good size attached belt pockets. Less than 2lbs! As well as very comfortable shoulder padding.

[@texmexia49]

This one doesn’t make sense to me. It’s not waterproof so you have to have a liner or dry bag which makes the front zipper unusable and a potential failure point.

[@kimberlypenney7216]

@@texmexia49 funny I was in 3 down pours in Montana last week and nothing was wet inside.

[@texmexia49]

@@kimberlypenney7216 that’s good. OV lists it as water resistant and sells it with a liner so I wouldn’t trust it though.

[@ericfschwartz]

The last three I purchased each had a quality defect and had to be returned.

[@DanBecker]

😮

[@ericfschwartz]

@@DanBecker Seriously, just received a new pack from HMG yesterday with the front mesh pocket not sewn in correctly.

[@brettwilliams437]

@@ericfschwartz maybe it has something to do with moving their manufacturing out of the USA?

[@amorton94]

These fancy, cool, light packs and I'm over here looking at 8lb external frames 😂

[@DanBecker]

😮😂

[@jamesbrooks3664]

Nobody uses external frames anymore lol

[@amorton94]

@@jamesbrooks3664 Just people carrying lots of weight and hunters 🤷‍♂️

[@TheVivimomo]

The "Hyperlite Mountain Gear2400 Windrider 40L Backpack" costs something about 3 months of an usual sallary in Brazil.

[@JKalllday]

Would you still stand by that these are your favorite?

[@travischapman6763]

Why can’t they just tape those seems? Obviously dyneema is water proof as they use it to make tents. With a roll top design, it’s so close to just being water proof and it doesn’t make sense to me.

[@DanBecker]

Those seams are a stress point and will tear the tape according to HMG

[@gavinhalm3016]

@@DanBecker Exactly, but if you really wanted to, you could "goop" the seams with a WP substance, but it's even easier to simply pack your gear in liners (if one doesn't like the roll top liner bags because their are picky on "extra weight", Gossamer has huge ones like 48L for 5 bucks a pop that weigh nothing)

[@calywil]

or they're hiking in Patagonia

[@inkblots-life1111]

3400 is a 55 Liter backpack

[@marcb1289]

These backpacks seem great... and expensive. But they have another major drawback: they don't seem to be distributed in Europe.

[@barondavis5692]

Because they gave you one?

[@mflacke]

This is all hype.

[@derekhand7904]

Yea probably

[@DanBecker]

What’s the hype?

[@mflacke]

@@DanBecker Just a bad pun.

[@froggyonthepct9947]

It needs load lifters… Dan…

[@deanherring8623]

None of them are backpacks. They're just sacks with straps on them. A backpack has a frame

[@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker]

I gave a like because I generally love you videos. This one not so much. Sorry Dan.