ZPacks Arc Haul Review - 1000 Mile Gear Review of my Thru Hiking Backpack

I've had a lot of questions from you lately about whether I'll be doing a 1000 mile gear review of my thru hiking backpack the Zpacks Arc Haul. So here it is! After nearly two years and well over 1,700kms, here are my thoughts on how the Arc Haul performed on Te Araroa and whether it is the best pack for a long distance hike.
Should you buy the arc haul for your next long distance hiking adventure? I'll be covering all the following topics in this post thru hike gear review video, as well as letting you know why I'm ditching the arc haul for my upcoming thru hike of the South Island 😱.
00:01:02 How durable is the Arc Haul?
00:03:02 How comfortable is the Arc Haul?
00:08:15 Is the Arc Haul Waterproof?
00:10:44 Simple design of the Arc Haul
00:13:16 How effective is the way the Arc Haul carries weight?
00:15:02 Zpacks Customer Service
00:17:03 Will I keep using the Arc Haul?
⬇ Watch Next
○ ZPacks Arc Haul Gear Review: • Gear Review :: ZPacks ...
○ Gear I Finished TA With: • Post Te Araroa Thru Hi...
○ PLAYLIST - Te Araroa North 19/20: bit.ly/3eeOpbU
○ Episode 16 - Turakina River Crossing: • S01E15 Te Araroa | Day...
------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------
⭐⭐ BECOME A MEMBER FOR MORE PERKS ⭐⭐
Want to help support my work and get some neat perks in return?
Become a Long White Gypsy Member and you'll get exclusive access to advance updates and secret adventures before anyone else! Not only that, but you'll also have access to new 5 Minute Trail Experiences, a growing library of members-only resources, early access to new videos, seasonal Q&A sessions, product discounts and more.
With three membership levels (Free, Hiker & Tramper), your monthly fee will allow me to keep making rich content - videos, blog posts and guides - which will help aspiring hikers and thru hikers plan and prepare for their next adventure.
Join the Long White Gypsy Membership today! The adventure awaits...
longwhitegypsy.com/membership
------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------
VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR MORE
longwhitegypsy.com
HOW TO SUPPORT ME:
➡ Subscribe to this channel
➡ Join My Membership: longwhitegypsy.com/membership
➡ Shop on Amazon: amzn.to/3UdDQLj
➡ Like my Facebook Page: / longwhitegypsy
➡ Follow me on Instagram: / longwhitegypsy
GEAR LISTS:
➡ Day Hiking Gear List: longwhitegypsy.com/day-hike-g...
➡ Overnight Hiking Gear List: longwhitegypsy.com/overnight-...
➡ Multi-Day Hiking Gear List: longwhitegypsy.com/great-walk...
➡ Te Araroa Gear List: longwhitegypsy.com/te-araroa-...
Affiliate Disclosure: This video description may contain affiliate links. I may receive a small commission or fee (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase through these links.

[@longwildernesswalks]

I've tried them all over the last 10 years. I keep coming back to my Zpacks ArcHaul. My last trip, a month ago, was for 10 nights and 11 days in the backcountry of Yellowstone National Park here in the USA. We ranged from 55F to 18F each day. I started day 1 with 35 lbs in the bag and I had zero issues with weight. I'm 5' 10" and weigh 185. I hardly even noticed the weight. That being said, for anyone who buys the bag, you need to experiment with packing it. I have some friends who pack theirs with all their lightweight and fluffy stuff at the bottom and then their heavier food etc. at the top. Personally, with 15 lbs of food, I put it at the bottom every time and never had any issues. Two years with the same bag and probably close to 800 miles on it. No issues to report at all. Great review.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

This is some great feedback, and I'm sure very helpful for those out there who are (especially) concerned with the price of this pack. There's a lot I DON'T like about it, don't get me wrong, but there's also a lot I DO like as well. Thanks for your comment!

[@onestepatatime5584]

I’ve had the arc blast that long and no issues at all. I’m only considering getting the arc haul because I’m going packrafting for 7!days this summer.

[@djsomers100]

Just recently found your videos. All well done. Did the Milford Track back in 1976 with old time gear. Love NZ! Anyway Zpacks stuff is top notch and your reviews are awesome. Thank you!

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Sorry Dave, I definitely remember replying to your comments, but it seems like they didn't save or something ?!? Gah! Nice to have you along anyway :) What a different experience the Milford Track must have been back then! I think we all tend to get caught up in what is the 'best' or 'lightest' gear these days, and forget that in actual fact it's all about the experience. Thanks for your comments!

[@mountaingoathikes]

What an informative review! Thanks!

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

You're very welcome! Glad you found it helpful :)

[@yetanotherhobby5698]

Thank you for the detailed review. Specific experiences, good and bad, are so very much more useful than a glowing pre-hike review. Post honeymoon impression are the best indicator of long term success with any gear.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Absolutely, glad you found it helpful. And as you may have seen, I have since continued to use this pack (for a variety of reasons). But this year I hope to switch things up a little, so make sure to stay tuned for that! What pack are you using at the moment?

[@yetanotherhobby5698]

​@@LongWhiteGypsy I was relieved that your review was ultimately positive as I am expecting a new Zpacks Arc Blast to arrive tomorrow. I'm currently using a homemade G4 that is lightweight and works well on short trips but is just plain uncomfortable for any load >=10kg. Subscribed, and looking forward to reading more about your experiences. Best of luck to you!

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Awesome, I hope you enjoy your first taste of the Arc Blast. I think you'll be happy with it!

[@stirlingslingerland4547]

My Arc Haul was also twisted. I only used it for 4 weeks on the PCT and got rid of it. I then tried HMG, MLD and now happy with my SWD.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

I appreciate this comment - I was starting to think it was just me! I've not yet come across Superior Wilderness Designs and their products, so this has been a good opportunity for me to check out another brand, thanks!

[@NorthWoodsDiver]

Mine twisted too, I used it for a month on the AT and had trouble right away. No trouble until I was on trail, though I hiked with it prepping for the AT. Nothing fixed it BUT because i contacted them early on and they tried to help me via email and phone but things didnt work they did take it back and fully refund it. I had good experience with customer service and have ordered several of their smaller items with no problems.

I’m considering this pack for the load carrying capability since I hike in the desert and have heavy water loads. I’m surprised. I’ve now watched four trail reviews and in two of them the carbon stay has poked through the bottom. Now the twisting. For the price, I’m starting to hesitate.

[@NickandRachel]

Thanks for sharing!

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!

[@NickandRachel]

@@LongWhiteGypsy no problem. We really enjoy making outdoor content also

[@TomyHovingtonHiking]

Great review! To the point without any frills . I have the same pack and I too have a torso just in between the available measurements. If I was to get another one, I would definitely take a size up. Thanks for sharing your on trail experience 🤙

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Thanks for confirming my thoughts Tomy, and you're welcome!

[@billprice6458]

It's probably the hydration tube throughway. Pointless unless you use a bladder. You can go without that on the website. My guess is that's where the water came in, but just a guess.

[@parisrose5766]

I have a bright orange "zip" version of your pack. The zip part was great getting into camp and gave you options for access and packing. I was amazed it didn't leak. I did poke a hole in the outer bag with my trekking pole but thats more a user error thing. HESR.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Paris Rose Good information there! I had concerns about the zip, so it’s good to hear your experience ☺️

[@dangerpudge1922]

It's Dixie from Down Unda. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences.

[@littlethislittlethat456]

Hi, I have the same pack but the Medium torso. i too love the two straps to tighten the hip belt on both sides. I did have one major issue with my pack. On a shakedown hike one day, all of a sudden one shoulder strap simply came off. The stitching gave out and I had to send the pack back to Zpacks for repair. I told them to check and shore up all the strap attachments to the shoulder straps. One thing I JUST did was convert it to an Arc Air using the Arc Air rods (purchased 2 from Zpacks for $25 USD). At first, I removed the old arcs and then installed the new arcs and also removed the mesh backing because the arcs are now permanent but I found that one popped out from the bottom. I reinstalled the mesh and tightened it up. That seems to keep the Arcs planted where they are supposed to be. I have also noticed that the pack sometimes rides a little to one side. I never considered that it might be sewn a little off like you found but overall, it is very comfortable. My base weight is 22 lbs. and full weight with 5 days food, fuel and water is 32.5 lbs. I also purchased the FUPA and found that I had to switch to the Small hip belt vs the Medium that I had. The FUPA adds maybe two inches to the hip belt. I did have concerns over customer service because your only option was to Email them. Now they have a phone number so that helps a lot. Thanks for your very detailed review. I'll be using my pack on my thru hike of the AT, some 2,193 miles. John from MI USA

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Some really great feedback here John. There are definitely plenty of ways you can make this pack work for you. It was certainly a good pack for me to start out with, and I don't regret buying it at all! P.S. sorry for the late response!

[@dzedogranatovich7085]

Superb review.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Thank you very much, glad you enjoyed it.

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Great review. Crow✌️

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Thank you! So happy you found it helpful :)

[@onestepatatime5584]

Great review! Complete and detailed. The four reasons you chose Zpacks are the same four I did.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

That's great to know, at least I'm on the right track!

[@onestepatatime5584]

You’ll like the Arc Blast too.

[@darrenwilson7205]

Great Video and great advise especially when it comes to getting the right size. The over night hike i completed last weekend i use my Zpack arblast witch is the smaller pack fitted like a glove and i had my full Te Araroa gear and 4 days food and after my 32km day witch included a 6 river crossing and some good climbs . The pack felt comfortable and balanced. I think i now have it dialed in. Darren

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Good stuff Darren! I'm interested to know how you find the Arc Blast? I'm interested to know how you find the DCF rather than the Gridstop for durability and water resistancy... if you get some spare time in amongst all that prep :)

[@darrenwilson7205]

@@LongWhiteGypsy love to give me a day or two :)

[@FreedomOnFoot]

Great review, Michelle. I’m going to be in the market for a new pack sometime next year as an alternative to my current very comfortable but much heavier Lowe Alpine Cerro Torre expedition pack. The Arc Haul is one of the ones that I’m considering so this review is really helpful. Interested to see which pack you’ll be using for the South Island!

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

I was actually just looking at this thumbnail this morning and thinking "Yeah, that's a bit inaccurate right now". Because of all the extra camera equipment I've had to purchase for this leg of the journey, it's looking like I'm not going to end up with a new pack for the South Island after all. It's not set in stone yet, and I certainly won't have it for the first few weeks on the trail, but we'll see if I'm able to scrape some money together to get the new one for at least part of the South Island so I can do some testing. Glad the review was helpful though!

[@FreedomOnFoot]

The cost of hiking gear can certainly add up, particularly when we have to build camera gear into that as well so I hear you. Hope the Arc Haul performs well for you on part or all of your South Island hike, depending on whether you decide to swap it out on the way.

[@luboyanev]

Hey, I have also seen my arc haul have an asymmetrical arc, and it was due to having a different tension on the straps for the arc on each side. So once I adjust the tension of the carbon stays to be the same on both sides, the arc would be symmetrical and working as it should. That is what worked in my experience

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Appreciate you posting your experience as well! What you describe is one of the first things I thought it could be, and I tried to readjust the straps to compensate (as you suggest). But loosen all the straps on the back mesh panel and lay the pack flat on the ground, the asymmetrical stitching is still present. If I lay the pack down with the base (or top) along a straight edge, the opposite edge of the pack is quite clearly on a slanted angle (visible to the naked eye). This is also why I went to the effort of counting the squares in the gridstop fabric as well. On one edge there are XX number of squares between the bottom of the pack and the top, and on the other edge there are XXX number. Thanks for the suggestion anyway, though!

[@luboyanev]

@@LongWhiteGypsy Oh I see, it is a different scenario. Glad it still worked out for you. I really like the pack and it's comfort as well

[@maxcollins5717]

Hi, I think that you had the arch too arched. I always pack my pack with the arch released and then adjust the arch to give enough separation. The load lifters actually help create more arch once you have it on. I have used this pack for four years and thousands of miles with both 15 pounds and more than 40 pounds.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Hi Max, thanks for the comment, I appreciate you letting me know your experience. I've tried all different kinds of ways, and I've tried the method you suggest as well, but still no difference. I've actually just gotten used to it now, and combat it by having that shoulder strap slightly looser than the other one.

[@fernpannell]

Hi fellow kiwi! Ilove your videos, you're just like the kiwi version of Dixie and with the added bonus of weights being in kgs not lbs and good info on NZ making it more relatable

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Wow, thank you Fern! That's a HUMUNGOUS compliment :) I absolutely LOVE Dixie, and usually join in as the kiwi participant on her Q&As. Let me know if there's anything specifically kiwi-tramping/hiking related you'd like to see on this channel ... I'm always up for new ideas!

[@CanHike]

Hello, thanks for the review! Have you tried a Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400? Interested in your ideas about it. I would like to upgrade from my current Osprey pack and, living in Canada, I’m in a situation much like you- I’m unable to try before I buy and shipping/returns can be an issue. Thanks again!

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

I decided against it because the HMG pack was heavier than the Zpacks, however I know there are plenty of thru hikers that use the HMG pack and love it. Unfortunately it's one of those situations where you kind of just have to take the gamble and hope for the best!

[@Nora_meow99]

Thank you 😍👌

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

You're very welcome :)

[@juliegordon6718]

What were your measurements for back length? I am 19in which would put me on the short, but now that you mentioned the arc I'm worried.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Julie Gordon I’ve just measured myself again and I’m coming in at 18.5-19inches. The ZPacks website states that the Short size is for torsos 17-20inches. If I were you, I’d seriously consider going with the medium torso length, but perhaps contact ZPacks directly and outline your concerns, and see what they recommend. Hope that helps!

[@Kiwiwanderer]

Thank you for the review. I had nailed my choice of pack down to 2 - Ladies Osprey ltrs ? Or the NZ aarnpacks ( with the front loading packs for balance ....do you know of them? I don’t think the front packs would suit my frame - it would actually unbalance me ) .....but now I have to add this zpack to the mix. I think my main problem is being older I am not built like a hiker ......I’m shorter, curvier , larger breasts....would appreciate any advice you can give. Or I may have to hire a Sherpa / guide!?!

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Haha the sherpa option is totally legit. If you can find one in NZ, let me know! The aarn packs look absolutely brilliant. There was a fair chunk of kiwis on TA last year who were using them. I have to say though, I think I'd find them a little bit too much for what I need. But I like the system - it just makes sense to have the balance bags on the front, and I wonder if it would help me as I do tend to overbalance on trail. The Ospreys are great too, though. I think it really comes down to what your base weight is. I tried to keep mine as light as possible, but I was still pushing 12-15kg most of the time. If you're likely to have a heavier baseweight, perhaps an Osprey or Aarn pack would be better for you. I am definitely NOT built like a hiker either, but I understand what you're saying. We're currently looking at a new pack for Mum and she's a LOT shorter than me. I think the best advice I can give is to try on PLENTY of packs (and make sure that you pack at least 5kg of weight into them when you're trying on - often outdoor stores will have bags of rice or something you can put inside). The weight makes a huge difference to how the pack feels when you have it on. And make sure you have your torso length properly measured so that you get the RIGHT size for you. Some brands (like Macpac) actually make women's specific sizing for their packs. They tend to be a little shorter in the torso and wider in the hip area. They also make interchangeable hip belts (sort of like the Zpacks). The more customiseable your pack is, the greater the chance you'll actually get a proper fit. Hope that helps!

[@thesoccersidelines]

@@LongWhiteGypsy I have the Aarn Natural Balance pack and took it through New Mexico mountains for 100 miles - weight 50+ lbs with crew gear. The balance pockets in the front are brilliant! I could eat, drink, navigate and more without unloading. I have a herniated disc in my back from a previous injury and the Aarn pack never made it angry or even a little miffed. For a full boot, heavy haul, I was well balanced and comfortable. On a slightly longer trek, 213 miles on the JMT, I'm using a lighter base weight, trail runners, and plan to go with the Zpacks Arc Haul. But the Aarn pack with balance pockets is a solid winner of a pack for me. Highly recommended. I've had many interactions with Aarn and Devi and can say their service is first class too!

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

@@thesoccersidelines Because of the fact it's made here in New Zealand, I'd love to try the Aarn packs out for myself, I know they are very popular and I've only ever heard good things about them. It's just always a monetary consideration... where next to spend my carefully budgeted hiking funds!! Good to hear of your experiences though David!

[@loklok5701]

hi~my torsos is 20 inches, should I aim into S or M? And how long your torsos?

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

My torso length is 18.5-19 inches. The Zpacks recommended torso length for the Short size on the Arc Haul is 17-20 inches. So in my opinion I would say you may be more comfortable in the Medium torso length. However, I am not an expert, so I suggest you contact Zpacks before buying to raise your concern and see what they suggest.

[@jeffnelson2197]

I bought tea from the UK and shipping cost me $25. For a sampler of tea that weighed less than an ounce. That makes me wonder if dealing with companies in the USA from overseas, or vis-à-vis might create a less than thrilling experience for everyone.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Hi Jeff! Yes, it's been a real hassle, especially in the last two years or so, getting products sent to me here in NZ. When I first started buying gear in late 2017 and early 2018 I could order just about anything off Amazon for a fraction of the NZ cost and the shipping cost to NZ was still reasonable. Now, you're looking at $30-40 in shipping on EVERY item from Amazon, and some items are flat out restricted from being sold to NZers. And then you have the cutoms duty on the larger items as well. Having said that, my Mum just purchased a new quilt from Enlightened Equipment in the USA. We were surprised not just at the incredibly short time it took to arrive, but also that we didn't receive an invoice from NZ customs! So it can be really hit and miss!

[@yongkim2088]

What about hydration holes as a reason for the pool of water in the pack? Wouldn’t water have leaked through the holes when you pressed the pack under water while crossing the river on the pack?

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

You're spot on here. Since making this video I realised it was probably the hydration port on the back panel which caused the water to get in. I hadn't really thought about the fact that this is a breach in the pact and not completely sealed over. Moral of the story: don't use your pack as a raft on a river!

[@yongkim2088]

@@LongWhiteGypsy Lol.. 👍

[@zekejones2249]

Comfortability isn’t a word

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

I'm always making up words on this channel ;-)

[@suzannerunning2617]

Hello Can you tell me what your torso length is and your height? Im looking at buying one and am also a small female. Thank you

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Hi Suzanne, I'll need to measure my torso again because I can't quite remember, but I believe I am about 167cm. Let me measure tonight and let you know!

[@juliangarner56]

Comfortability?

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

I like to make up words... keeps life interesting :D

[@jamhardproductions9400]

Female Osprey....so light and durable

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Think I'd have real issues switching to a full frame pack now after so long with an ultralight or near frameless pack, but I'd still like to give one a go sometime :)

[@WilderhopeAdventures]

The extreme arc you have on that pack looks way too deep...should only be about 2". This is likely part of the reason you had issues with the torso length and probably exacerbated the twisting issue too.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Thanks for the feedback. I actually have the pack arced to the 2.5" that Zpacks recommend (although I agree with you it looks much more severe than that). The problem is that with less of an arc than that, I start to lose the benefit of the extra ventilation (and get back the disadvantage of having everything in my pack poking out at me).

[@WilderhopeAdventures]

@@LongWhiteGypsy That's interesting...looks a whole lot more than 2.5" (I also though ZPacks recommended 2" but I stand corrected). I find the sweet spot it is about 1.75"...still get the benefits of airflow and I've never had issues with anything poking me in the back (well once, but it was something badly packed on my part). I find that if the arc is too harsh that it puts more pressure on the bottom bar of the frame which in turn creates pressure on my lower back. Guess we're all different.

[@hair2050]

Comfortablity?

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

I like to make up words here on the channel 😂

[@patrickcheung2557]

The zipper do not closed 100% that water would go into the bag

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Are you referring to the zippers on the hip belt pocket? I never noticed an issue with this, but whenever it was raining heavily the items inside the pockets would end up damp. I suppose this could be because the zips weren't closed properly.

[@marcyfox9508]

Hyperlight and get on with your hike. Just me.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

I'd actually love to try one of the HMG packs. Think it might be a good option for me going forwards. But we'll see!

[@amythinks]

I was distracted from the excellent and thorough review by the constant impulse to look up and see whether or not the words you were using were real words. Maybe Southern Hemisphere English is different...

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

People seem to have a real fascination with my tendency to use made up words. Maybe I should start another KZbin channel just about that....

[@carlflamm9577]

Title says why you ditched it. You didn’t ditch it. Click bait!!!!!!

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

Fair comment! My intention when I posted this video was to ditch the pack, and unfortunately due to COVID I ended up having some issues getting the funds together to purchase the new pack. By the time I did have the money, unfortunately there wasn't enough time (taking into account the lead time and shipping to NZ) to get a new pack sent to me before I started the South Island. This year I will finally be getting a new pack, and sharing how that works out for me!

[@yongkim2088]

IMHO, ZPacks has got too big & become less responsive, a natural progression of any successful business? If I have to nit-pick, Arc Haul has too many fine features & is relatively less durable than some of its competitors like HMG.

[@LongWhiteGypsy]

I'd have to agree with you there. They have always been responsive when I've needed their assistance, but not always with helpful solutions (as suggested with the twisting frame). I think the problem is that their customer base has grown exponentially in the last few years and they haven't been able to keep up. I haven't tried any HMG gear yet, so I'll take your word on durability.

[@yongkim2088]

@@LongWhiteGypsy IMHO again, black HMGs are ted sturdier than Arc Haul. Good for people who have focus issues like me. Lol.

[@6foot8jesuspilledpureblood82]

Honestly I'm glad you burned zpacks with this review. You have a real life issue with the pack and they should have helped you immediately instead of not providing decent solutions. They charge giga dollars for this gear, you'd think it'd come with some assurances. Not that they a bad company, but I'm hearing more and more about people's issues being blindsided. Is the 2022 pack any different did you know? Cheers from Waiuku 🇳🇿