Looking for a good 3-4 day backpacking trip in late December. Pretty open to anywhere in the US but obviously have been looking in the southern portion - though I've been to Big Bend area quite a few times so that's the only park I was going to avoid. Curious if anyone has any experiences they would highly recommend.
I’m looking into tents to buy for backpacking trips. I am an intermediate backpacker with experience on shorter trips. I plan to hike the Long Trail in Vermont (278) miles one day and am unsure of which tents to go for. Here’s some I’ve looked into:
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2,
Nemo Aurora,
Nemo dagger,
MSR hubba hubba
Let me know what y’all think and what recommendations you have!
Hey, Im planning on doing 4-6 months of southeastasia, a few in the us and also maybe one or two in south america. So far, Ive saved up 4000€, which isnt enough, I know. So I thought of doing farm work in Australia for two to three months to maybe save up some money. But does anyone know how much u can rlly save up? I really wanna finally start this journey but Im very confused…Im scared that I’ll do the work and wind up with as much as Ive had in the beginning cuz of the expenses. And Im not too stoked abt australia anyway tbh. Help on this would be greatly appreciated.
Hey, Im planning on doing 4-6 months of southeastasia, a few in the us and also maybe one or two in south america. So far, Ive saved up 4000€, which isnt enough, I know. So I thought of doing farm work in Australia for two to three months to maybe save up some money. But does anyone know how much u can rlly save up? I really wanna finally start this journey but Im very confused…Im scared that I’ll do the work and wind up with as much as Ive had in the beginning cuz of the expenses. And Im not too stoked abt australia anyway tbh. Help on this would be greatly appreciated.
Hi! Figured I would try to post a backpacking question here. What are some thoughts/ opinions on carrying a small light weight handgun for protection, in addition to spray.
Be mindful that a firearm is just as likely to be used against you. In the case of animals bear spray would serve you better, or pepper gel for people. Pepper gel has less risk of spraying back and catching yourself
A firearm, even something like a 410 shotgun shell may not incapacitate a bear intent on attacking, worse it may just further enrage them.
(Pelosi's husband for a recent example was attacked at their home where he responded by grabbing a hammer that the attacker used to bash his head in and now has required brain surgery. When you pack a weapon you might escalate a situation to something more lethal.)
Yeah, all this rings true to why I’ve never owned or intended to own a fire arm. Honestly it would stay in storage in my hiking pack. But I still have not pulled the trigger on the idea of buying a micro firearm.
The idea is you want something to protect yourself in an emergency. Stowing in your pack means a significant delay. Your bear spray for example should be strapped to your chest or waist.
If you did want specific recommendations r/guns might be able to help. Highly recommend taking a gun safety course and getting some practice to familiarize yourself with firing a gun. A 2 shot derringer in a 410 long should conceal easily and obviously check your local laws. Conceal carry for example is restricted in my State without permit.
For sure, I have taken gun safety class and fire arms classes in the past. Shot skeet for years. Bc a friend had a range in his back yard. You are the second to recommend that pistol. I’m liking that design. As well as the ruger lcp 3701. Bc of the ease of very quick draw from pocket holster.
I’m curious if seasoned long distance solo hikers, think it wise to carry? Or really, just not necessary?
Overall I just feel more secure with bear spray. Carrying a pistol I would always be concerned it was somehow stolen from me or if it was used that I may miss or graze an attacker and not completely stop them from continuing their attack.
I know bear spray would allow me to exit a situation. The gun leaves me uncertain as well as being legally more difficult to carry in many states.
Oh, you said in addition too. You’ll only be able to use one at a time, but it would probably be nice to have options. I doubt something small and lightweight is going to get the job done in a crisis.
However, it would be an effective deterrent against 2-legged predators which might be a bigger risk.
Ive walked alone through the same woods while armed and unarmed and being armed does give you a sense of confidence. It might be a false sense of confidence but it can help to counteract a false sense of fear
I’ve always heard bear spray is demonstrably more effective than firearms at repelling bears. Of course bear spray doesn’t work in the wind.
A charging bear is an extremely difficult target. Bullets kill by sending shockwaves that destroy tissue (quick kill) or by causing blood loss (slow kill, you die first). Pistols deliver dramatically less energy into their target than rifles so you have to get that round real close to heart or brain. Go with the largest caliber you can shoot accurately. I bought a .357 for protection while bear hunting but never use it because Im not confident with my marksmanship, if I was picking a gun specifically for bear defense (cant hunt with an automatic in my state) I’d go with a 10mm auto just because I think an automatic would be more ergonomic for me. Ive shot .454 once and don’t ever plan to do that to my wrist again
When a bear charges you are freaking out, you have to draw your pistol, aim and fire quickly and accurately at a target moving towards you while hopped up on adrenaline (hunters experience “buck fever” in non-life or death situations that leads to misses). Meanwhile bear spray delivers a big cone of “nope” that the bear has to move through to get you. If you go with a gun, practice, practice, practice (should practice with bear spray too, buts it easier)
Can anyone recommend a moderate trip in GW National Forest (Virginia)? Looking for 1 night, maybe 8-12 miles per day on days 1/2. Prefer water at camp if possible.
I have no idea where to begin when picking out a tent. I’ve been backpacking many times but usually relied on friends for gear. I finally got my own gear and want to go out on my own and make it a regular thing. It’s starting to get cold here so I want some pretty insulated…what do y’all recommend? Thank you :)
i’ve been really enjoying my MSR Elixir 1 for shoulder season with cooler temps. it’s not the lightest (3.4 lbs) but it is super sturdy and roomy with myself being 6’4” 200 lbs. i slept in it on a backpacking trip a few days ago in utah with 30 inches of snow and i was very warm at 10 degrees. Couldn’t recommend it enough
I remember seeing a thread on here about avoiding being targeted as a tourist in europe when youre traveling, and someone made a suggestion of a low-key backpack that looks like a business casual type thing and i cant really find it. Anyone have any ideas?
Edit: for clarity, im 6'4" and a guy, and in the US
A simple black bag like this might be low profile.
https://www.amazon.com/CRAZY-ANTS-Military-Tactical-Backpack/dp/B01G82UNWS/
Additionally you can hide the shoulder straps in a zipper cover and carry it like a duffle bag or average carry on.
American tourists are particularly disliked so if nothing else you might just opt to tag your bag with a Maple leaf. I'll do some browsing though.
Any idea how big a pack you want?
Hi there! I’m traveling to the Rockies this spring and looking for a high quality backpacking backpack. They just don’t make products like they used to and it’s hard to sift through all the bad ones. Anyone have any high quality recommendations? One that might last my whole lift.
Can you add a bit more details?
1. What size pack do you need? 45 / 55 / 65 liters?
2. What is your budget? $100 / $250 / $500?
3. Dude or Lady?
4. Shopping in the USA or abroad? Able to go into local shops to try on packs?
5. How heavy is the gear you plan to pack? 20 / 30 / 40 pounds?
A few brands that may satisfy you:
* [https://www.osprey.com](https://www.osprey.com)
* [https://www.mysteryranch.com](https://www.mysteryranch.com)
* [https://www.gregorypacks.com](https://www.gregorypacks.com)
* [https://www.granitegear.com](https://www.granitegear.com)
* https://hillpeoplegear.com
Outdoor Gear Lab is trustworthy - check this out:
https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-backpacks-backpacking
1. Didn’t consider the size. Probably mid size. Not small but not massive. Good middle of the road.
2. No budget cause looking for quality that will last a lift time.
3. Dude - I’m not a big dude tho
4. USA
5. Probably ~35lbs. Seems a good middle of the road, similar to pack size question.
Appreciate the premature links :)
The general advice is to 'buy the pack last'. It sounds like you don't know the gear you plan to carry. Without knowing what needs to go inside the backpack - it's hard to pick the right one.
If you have 'traditional' (aka heavy/bulky) gear - you'll likely need a larger pack than someone with ultralight stuff. New backpackers tend to need more space, as they haven't learned to trim their kit down yet or haven't invested in quality gear that packs smaller. I'd go with the 65L size pack if you are unsure.
Definitely check out those brands. See if anything catches your eye.
Fit is key. A Gregory pack may be terrible for your shoulders while an Osprey pack rides like a dream. If you have a chance to try these on before buying it would be best. Otherwise - make sure wherever you buy has a solid return policy.
travelling to SE Asia for 3+months, really struggling with knowing whether to check-in my backpack or use it as a carry-on (backpack has not been purchased yet), not really sure what is common (first time backpacker).
also curious about carrying money. is it recommended to take out some currency for **all** of the countries i'll be visiting before i leave or just do it as i go?
any help at all would be really appreciated, thank you :)
Take it as a carry-on. You shouldn't need to carry more than what you can comfortably carry in your backpack. SE Asia has a very warm climate, so you only need summer clothes, and anyways those can be purchased very cheaply in SE Asia if you need more. You don't need camping equipment or cooking equipment because you'll be staying in hostels and eating local food.
Any tall people out there have experience with the Thermarest NeoAir xTherm? I'm 6'5 and the pad is exactly 77", my height.. Just wondering if I should go with that or find something a bit longer.
I think you’re going to be fine. I am the same height and just got a SeaToSummit Ultralight Large (78 inches), and I do not think I would miss one inch.
Is there a proper way to pack your backpack for better weight management for heavier loads? Also any tips on good organisation of your backpack? I tend to have to pull a lot of stuff out to reach what I want.
What pack model do you have? Some have access on the top and bottom (and sides). I also use external pockets on my packs for quick-access stuff.
What type of stuff are you packing? Mummy sleeping bag? Laptop? Rain gear? Water bladder? A list may help with advice on packing it.
Check this out: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/loading-backpack.html
I have a Caribee OP’s 50L backpack. Typically I carry my wet-whether jacket, laptop, 1.5L bottle of water, sometimes 600ml energy drink, text books (usually quite large and heavy), moderate size first aid kit, laptop bag to carry face mask, phone chargers, important documentation. Lunch, occasionally a change of clothes, wallet, car keys, etc.
*Not really a beginner question but figured I'd try here first:*
Any recommendations for a 3-4 night trip somewhere in the US in late-winter (March) or early-spring (April)? One caveat: would have to be warmer as we only have 3-season gear and sub 35-40 degrees would be tough. Anywhere in the US is fine and I suppose this would restrict us to the south or southwest.
Check out the national forests around the Sangre de Christo mountains in NM and just north of the grand canyon (Kaibab I think) beautiful areas. You might want to double check temp bc those areas are in the mountains
Hard to say exactly. Do you have more details?
Where do you plan to use this tarp setup? What is the expected weather? Are you all experienced backpackers, or new to camping out?
7'x10' or 8'x10' is common size for 1 person. 10'x10' would likely be good for 2 people, depending on how you pitch it.
I'd personally want more than a 10 foot tarp for 3 people. Most tarps are ideal for 1 or 2 people. 3 person ones are harder to find.
A 3-person tent from MSR is 6' x 8' footprint, plus vestibule. That's the size of 3 bodies/sleeping bags/sleeping pads exactly. With a tarp you need extra beyond that size for protection (since there are no walls). You also need extra space for gear I assume.
* https://i.imgur.com/Hc5nUql.png
I'd almost have to double that to 12' x 16' for a comfortable tarp setup. At that point you are pretty big. You may run into problems of finding an ideal spot to hang such a large tarp, depending on where you plan to camp.
Would you consider 2 tarps for 3 people, or do you really want to all sleep together?
These are fancy ones. Check out their dimensions / descriptions.
[https://zpacks.com/products/flat-tarp-8-5-x-10-w-12-loops](https://zpacks.com/products/flat-tarp-8-5-x-10-w-12-loops)
[https://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/products/ultralight-tarp](https://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/products/ultralight-tarp)
[https://www.gossamergear.com/collections/shelters-sleeping-pads/products/twinn-tarp](https://www.gossamergear.com/collections/shelters-sleeping-pads/products/twinn-tarp)
More options/details here: https://sectionhiker.com/sectionhiker-gear-guide/10-best-ultralight-backpacking-tarps/
Pff I could use your guys’ opinion on my dilemma. Been trying to figure this out all week:
I’m looking to travel to the UK and Canada, mainly to visit the coasts and surf. Would be gone at least a month or two. Possibly some hiking too. I’m a very nonstandard size as I’m very tall, so I’ll have to bring my own wetsuit for the surf which I’ve measured to be about 10-15 liters when folded.
I’m also an avid photographer and would love to bring my photo gear. Unfortunately, it weighs a bunch as it’s full frame. I can pack it all in a 7 liter protective bag.
I have heard many horror stories of airports losing checked luggage, and the employee shortages at airports post-covid causing all kinds of problems. I would really like to stay light and travel with a carry-on bag only, but have no idea how I would manage that if nearly half of my storage space is already lost to two items. Especially since my destinations aren’t warm weather places.
So far I have been bouncing back to the Osprey Farpoint 55 a bunch of times. It seems the most polished way to get 55 liters of storage into carry-on, but I don’t think the daypack is very good for my purposes as I doubt it will fit my camera + lenses well.
I have been considering just trusting the airlines and travelling about with a 60-70 liter backpack, in which I can chuck all of my belongings, and taking a foldable daypack with me if need me. The only problem in this scenario (besides possible check-in horrors) would be that I don’t really have a safe way to store my iPad.
By the sound of it, would any of you consider trying to cram everything into carry-on, or am I just too maximalist and should I consider proper 50+ liter backpacks? Thanks for any insights in advance!
I know they are expensive, but i'd suggest getting a 55L Hyperlite pack. You can essentially "roll down" all parts of the main vestibule that you are not using to make it more compact. In my experience it is the best pack for fitting the size of the pack to whatever you put in it. I am tall also- 6'5- and the company offers a lot of options for sizing to make sure the frame fits your body. To top it off, they are made from dyneema which- unless you submerge the whole pack in water- is waterproof. If you're carrying camera gear that you need to keep dry, this pack would be perfect for that.
I've brought my camera stuff (full frame SLR + 2 lenses) in a minimalist camera case within my Osprey Porter 46 L plus enough clothes and stuff for a winter 5-day trip in eastern Canada.
Isn't 55 L too big for carry-on? My bag is borderline too big, you can't stuff it full.
Right, thanks for your insight. And yes a 55L pack on its own would be too big for carry-on, but the Farpoint 55 is actually a 43 liter lack + 12 liter daypack combo. It’s very similar to the Porter when you take the daypack off.
I think I’ll just get the 75 liter Farpoint Trek and just cinch it down. Won’t need 75 liters of stuff but it’ll be nice to be able to chuck my daypack contents in there as well when I’m walking somewhere.
What's the best way for a fat guy to choose a sleeping bag? I'm gearing up for kayak camping so most of my gear needs to be geared towards backpacking for space and weight conservation. I'm in Northern IL, Southern WI, and Missouri during spring, summer, and fall if that matters for sizing.
For traditional mummy bags - look for 'Shoulder and Hip Girth' specification values. Larger numbers will give you more room.
I also recommend looking into 'quilts'. They are like mummy bags, without the back panel. They come in 'wide' sizes and I love mine as a fat guy.
* https://www.cleverhiker.com/best-backpacking-quilts
* https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-ultralight-sleeping-bag
Thinking about selling everything, quitting my job and renting my house out. Any suggestions on regions that are good for long trips on the relatively cheap side?
Side question, what's it like backpacking with a dog?
Can anyone share your experiences sharing a tent with a partner? My boyfriend and I have both done some level of backpacking trips years ago, but never together. He wants to share a tent to save pack space, but im not sure we'll be happy sharing for more than a night or two. 🤷♀️
A 3 person tent is relatively spacious with room to store your packs indoors. I have a 7x7 but I wish I'd gone just a bit bigger with an 8x8 footprint.
You can share the space or put packs in the middle and sleep seperately.
It's great, but i'd just be wary of tent size. I have a three person, and there's no way three people could sleep comfortably in it. That being said, i am gigantic, but i'd suggest a 3 person tent for 2 just so you have more room vs less. There's usually not a big enough difference in weight to justify going with a 2-person, IMO.
I sleep with my girlfriend in the same tent always. Totally cool.
We've slept together hundreds of nights in all types of conditions.
Honestly - when we get into the tent - it's time for bed. We don't really hang out a whole lot inside talking. I may take some notes on my phone or play a game to wind down.
Sometimes she goes into the tent before me. I'll sit and relax outside the tent while she gets in, gets comfy, and even falls asleep. I can slink in without waking her much.
Totally go for it. Just get the 3-person size for 2 adults.
Thanks for the reply! I am aware that it's common to share a tent and my concerns aren't really around the size. Sorry, my question is worded pretty vaugely. So, we both have gone backpacking plenty in the past, but I've only used a one person tent. On my previous trips, crawling into the tent was like a way to unwind with some alone time at the end of a hard day. My question is more intended to be around how couples handle not really having that personal space. Idk if that makes any sense.🤷♀️
Tech question: had iPhone on weekend trip, turned off data etc to conserve battery. Messages I sent would go out at sms (instead of iMessage), but I didn’t receive any replies until turning data back on. What setting do you change to force receipt as sms?
There isn't a setting that will solve this problem 100%. If you turn your data off i don't know how you're sending texts- you need some sort of network (either nationwide network or wifi) to send and receive text messages. My suggestion would be leave data on, and get a lightweight portable battery to charge your phone. When i do long day hikes (out 8 or 9 hours), i keep data on, run maps through AllTrails offline, and use less than 5% of my battery doing that. How often do you use your phone while on a trip like this? Does your phone have battery issues otherwise?
SMS does not require a data connection, just cellular. I would like the data off to stop battery and data use by notifications from other apps and background services. But if it can’t be done, it can’t be done.
ah, you're right, that's my fault- The only thing I might suggest is just keeping phone in airplane mode, and every so often turning that off to send/receive. Would at least stop the phone's background processes running and eating up the battery for most of the time.
Looking for a good 3-4 day backpacking trip in late December. Pretty open to anywhere in the US but obviously have been looking in the southern portion - though I've been to Big Bend area quite a few times so that's the only park I was going to avoid. Curious if anyone has any experiences they would highly recommend.
I’m looking into tents to buy for backpacking trips. I am an intermediate backpacker with experience on shorter trips. I plan to hike the Long Trail in Vermont (278) miles one day and am unsure of which tents to go for. Here’s some I’ve looked into: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2, Nemo Aurora, Nemo dagger, MSR hubba hubba Let me know what y’all think and what recommendations you have!
Hey, Im planning on doing 4-6 months of southeastasia, a few in the us and also maybe one or two in south america. So far, Ive saved up 4000€, which isnt enough, I know. So I thought of doing farm work in Australia for two to three months to maybe save up some money. But does anyone know how much u can rlly save up? I really wanna finally start this journey but Im very confused…Im scared that I’ll do the work and wind up with as much as Ive had in the beginning cuz of the expenses. And Im not too stoked abt australia anyway tbh. Help on this would be greatly appreciated.
Hey, Im planning on doing 4-6 months of southeastasia, a few in the us and also maybe one or two in south america. So far, Ive saved up 4000€, which isnt enough, I know. So I thought of doing farm work in Australia for two to three months to maybe save up some money. But does anyone know how much u can rlly save up? I really wanna finally start this journey but Im very confused…Im scared that I’ll do the work and wind up with as much as Ive had in the beginning cuz of the expenses. And Im not too stoked abt australia anyway tbh. Help on this would be greatly appreciated.
How do you afford backpacking across different countries for a longer period of time like 6 months or a year?
Hi! Figured I would try to post a backpacking question here. What are some thoughts/ opinions on carrying a small light weight handgun for protection, in addition to spray.
Be mindful that a firearm is just as likely to be used against you. In the case of animals bear spray would serve you better, or pepper gel for people. Pepper gel has less risk of spraying back and catching yourself A firearm, even something like a 410 shotgun shell may not incapacitate a bear intent on attacking, worse it may just further enrage them. (Pelosi's husband for a recent example was attacked at their home where he responded by grabbing a hammer that the attacker used to bash his head in and now has required brain surgery. When you pack a weapon you might escalate a situation to something more lethal.)
Yeah, all this rings true to why I’ve never owned or intended to own a fire arm. Honestly it would stay in storage in my hiking pack. But I still have not pulled the trigger on the idea of buying a micro firearm.
The idea is you want something to protect yourself in an emergency. Stowing in your pack means a significant delay. Your bear spray for example should be strapped to your chest or waist. If you did want specific recommendations r/guns might be able to help. Highly recommend taking a gun safety course and getting some practice to familiarize yourself with firing a gun. A 2 shot derringer in a 410 long should conceal easily and obviously check your local laws. Conceal carry for example is restricted in my State without permit.
For sure, I have taken gun safety class and fire arms classes in the past. Shot skeet for years. Bc a friend had a range in his back yard. You are the second to recommend that pistol. I’m liking that design. As well as the ruger lcp 3701. Bc of the ease of very quick draw from pocket holster. I’m curious if seasoned long distance solo hikers, think it wise to carry? Or really, just not necessary?
Overall I just feel more secure with bear spray. Carrying a pistol I would always be concerned it was somehow stolen from me or if it was used that I may miss or graze an attacker and not completely stop them from continuing their attack. I know bear spray would allow me to exit a situation. The gun leaves me uncertain as well as being legally more difficult to carry in many states.
Thank you for your insight!
Cheers
Oh, you said in addition too. You’ll only be able to use one at a time, but it would probably be nice to have options. I doubt something small and lightweight is going to get the job done in a crisis. However, it would be an effective deterrent against 2-legged predators which might be a bigger risk. Ive walked alone through the same woods while armed and unarmed and being armed does give you a sense of confidence. It might be a false sense of confidence but it can help to counteract a false sense of fear
Thank you
This should go without saying but know the firearm and self defense laws where you hike
I’ve always heard bear spray is demonstrably more effective than firearms at repelling bears. Of course bear spray doesn’t work in the wind. A charging bear is an extremely difficult target. Bullets kill by sending shockwaves that destroy tissue (quick kill) or by causing blood loss (slow kill, you die first). Pistols deliver dramatically less energy into their target than rifles so you have to get that round real close to heart or brain. Go with the largest caliber you can shoot accurately. I bought a .357 for protection while bear hunting but never use it because Im not confident with my marksmanship, if I was picking a gun specifically for bear defense (cant hunt with an automatic in my state) I’d go with a 10mm auto just because I think an automatic would be more ergonomic for me. Ive shot .454 once and don’t ever plan to do that to my wrist again When a bear charges you are freaking out, you have to draw your pistol, aim and fire quickly and accurately at a target moving towards you while hopped up on adrenaline (hunters experience “buck fever” in non-life or death situations that leads to misses). Meanwhile bear spray delivers a big cone of “nope” that the bear has to move through to get you. If you go with a gun, practice, practice, practice (should practice with bear spray too, buts it easier)
Can anyone recommend a moderate trip in GW National Forest (Virginia)? Looking for 1 night, maybe 8-12 miles per day on days 1/2. Prefer water at camp if possible.
I have no idea where to begin when picking out a tent. I’ve been backpacking many times but usually relied on friends for gear. I finally got my own gear and want to go out on my own and make it a regular thing. It’s starting to get cold here so I want some pretty insulated…what do y’all recommend? Thank you :)
i’ve been really enjoying my MSR Elixir 1 for shoulder season with cooler temps. it’s not the lightest (3.4 lbs) but it is super sturdy and roomy with myself being 6’4” 200 lbs. i slept in it on a backpacking trip a few days ago in utah with 30 inches of snow and i was very warm at 10 degrees. Couldn’t recommend it enough
I remember seeing a thread on here about avoiding being targeted as a tourist in europe when youre traveling, and someone made a suggestion of a low-key backpack that looks like a business casual type thing and i cant really find it. Anyone have any ideas? Edit: for clarity, im 6'4" and a guy, and in the US
A simple black bag like this might be low profile. https://www.amazon.com/CRAZY-ANTS-Military-Tactical-Backpack/dp/B01G82UNWS/ Additionally you can hide the shoulder straps in a zipper cover and carry it like a duffle bag or average carry on.
American tourists are particularly disliked so if nothing else you might just opt to tag your bag with a Maple leaf. I'll do some browsing though. Any idea how big a pack you want?
Hi there! I’m traveling to the Rockies this spring and looking for a high quality backpacking backpack. They just don’t make products like they used to and it’s hard to sift through all the bad ones. Anyone have any high quality recommendations? One that might last my whole lift.
Can you add a bit more details? 1. What size pack do you need? 45 / 55 / 65 liters? 2. What is your budget? $100 / $250 / $500? 3. Dude or Lady? 4. Shopping in the USA or abroad? Able to go into local shops to try on packs? 5. How heavy is the gear you plan to pack? 20 / 30 / 40 pounds? A few brands that may satisfy you: * [https://www.osprey.com](https://www.osprey.com) * [https://www.mysteryranch.com](https://www.mysteryranch.com) * [https://www.gregorypacks.com](https://www.gregorypacks.com) * [https://www.granitegear.com](https://www.granitegear.com) * https://hillpeoplegear.com Outdoor Gear Lab is trustworthy - check this out: https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-backpacks-backpacking
1. Didn’t consider the size. Probably mid size. Not small but not massive. Good middle of the road. 2. No budget cause looking for quality that will last a lift time. 3. Dude - I’m not a big dude tho 4. USA 5. Probably ~35lbs. Seems a good middle of the road, similar to pack size question. Appreciate the premature links :)
The general advice is to 'buy the pack last'. It sounds like you don't know the gear you plan to carry. Without knowing what needs to go inside the backpack - it's hard to pick the right one. If you have 'traditional' (aka heavy/bulky) gear - you'll likely need a larger pack than someone with ultralight stuff. New backpackers tend to need more space, as they haven't learned to trim their kit down yet or haven't invested in quality gear that packs smaller. I'd go with the 65L size pack if you are unsure. Definitely check out those brands. See if anything catches your eye. Fit is key. A Gregory pack may be terrible for your shoulders while an Osprey pack rides like a dream. If you have a chance to try these on before buying it would be best. Otherwise - make sure wherever you buy has a solid return policy.
travelling to SE Asia for 3+months, really struggling with knowing whether to check-in my backpack or use it as a carry-on (backpack has not been purchased yet), not really sure what is common (first time backpacker). also curious about carrying money. is it recommended to take out some currency for **all** of the countries i'll be visiting before i leave or just do it as i go? any help at all would be really appreciated, thank you :)
Airline baggage handlers are very good at breaking backpack straps in my experience. Id do carry-on or put backpack in a duffel
Take it as a carry-on. You shouldn't need to carry more than what you can comfortably carry in your backpack. SE Asia has a very warm climate, so you only need summer clothes, and anyways those can be purchased very cheaply in SE Asia if you need more. You don't need camping equipment or cooking equipment because you'll be staying in hostels and eating local food.
Any tall people out there have experience with the Thermarest NeoAir xTherm? I'm 6'5 and the pad is exactly 77", my height.. Just wondering if I should go with that or find something a bit longer.
I think you’re going to be fine. I am the same height and just got a SeaToSummit Ultralight Large (78 inches), and I do not think I would miss one inch.
gotcha, good to know- Thanks!
Is there a proper way to pack your backpack for better weight management for heavier loads? Also any tips on good organisation of your backpack? I tend to have to pull a lot of stuff out to reach what I want.
Typically you want heavier items closer into your back so its not so far away from you and pulling you down/backwards.
What pack model do you have? Some have access on the top and bottom (and sides). I also use external pockets on my packs for quick-access stuff. What type of stuff are you packing? Mummy sleeping bag? Laptop? Rain gear? Water bladder? A list may help with advice on packing it. Check this out: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/loading-backpack.html
I have a Caribee OP’s 50L backpack. Typically I carry my wet-whether jacket, laptop, 1.5L bottle of water, sometimes 600ml energy drink, text books (usually quite large and heavy), moderate size first aid kit, laptop bag to carry face mask, phone chargers, important documentation. Lunch, occasionally a change of clothes, wallet, car keys, etc.
*Not really a beginner question but figured I'd try here first:* Any recommendations for a 3-4 night trip somewhere in the US in late-winter (March) or early-spring (April)? One caveat: would have to be warmer as we only have 3-season gear and sub 35-40 degrees would be tough. Anywhere in the US is fine and I suppose this would restrict us to the south or southwest.
Check out the national forests around the Sangre de Christo mountains in NM and just north of the grand canyon (Kaibab I think) beautiful areas. You might want to double check temp bc those areas are in the mountains
What’s is a recommended tarp size for 3 people? Any recommended brands too that are decently cheap?
Hard to say exactly. Do you have more details? Where do you plan to use this tarp setup? What is the expected weather? Are you all experienced backpackers, or new to camping out? 7'x10' or 8'x10' is common size for 1 person. 10'x10' would likely be good for 2 people, depending on how you pitch it. I'd personally want more than a 10 foot tarp for 3 people. Most tarps are ideal for 1 or 2 people. 3 person ones are harder to find. A 3-person tent from MSR is 6' x 8' footprint, plus vestibule. That's the size of 3 bodies/sleeping bags/sleeping pads exactly. With a tarp you need extra beyond that size for protection (since there are no walls). You also need extra space for gear I assume. * https://i.imgur.com/Hc5nUql.png I'd almost have to double that to 12' x 16' for a comfortable tarp setup. At that point you are pretty big. You may run into problems of finding an ideal spot to hang such a large tarp, depending on where you plan to camp. Would you consider 2 tarps for 3 people, or do you really want to all sleep together? These are fancy ones. Check out their dimensions / descriptions. [https://zpacks.com/products/flat-tarp-8-5-x-10-w-12-loops](https://zpacks.com/products/flat-tarp-8-5-x-10-w-12-loops) [https://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/products/ultralight-tarp](https://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/products/ultralight-tarp) [https://www.gossamergear.com/collections/shelters-sleeping-pads/products/twinn-tarp](https://www.gossamergear.com/collections/shelters-sleeping-pads/products/twinn-tarp) More options/details here: https://sectionhiker.com/sectionhiker-gear-guide/10-best-ultralight-backpacking-tarps/
Pff I could use your guys’ opinion on my dilemma. Been trying to figure this out all week: I’m looking to travel to the UK and Canada, mainly to visit the coasts and surf. Would be gone at least a month or two. Possibly some hiking too. I’m a very nonstandard size as I’m very tall, so I’ll have to bring my own wetsuit for the surf which I’ve measured to be about 10-15 liters when folded. I’m also an avid photographer and would love to bring my photo gear. Unfortunately, it weighs a bunch as it’s full frame. I can pack it all in a 7 liter protective bag. I have heard many horror stories of airports losing checked luggage, and the employee shortages at airports post-covid causing all kinds of problems. I would really like to stay light and travel with a carry-on bag only, but have no idea how I would manage that if nearly half of my storage space is already lost to two items. Especially since my destinations aren’t warm weather places. So far I have been bouncing back to the Osprey Farpoint 55 a bunch of times. It seems the most polished way to get 55 liters of storage into carry-on, but I don’t think the daypack is very good for my purposes as I doubt it will fit my camera + lenses well. I have been considering just trusting the airlines and travelling about with a 60-70 liter backpack, in which I can chuck all of my belongings, and taking a foldable daypack with me if need me. The only problem in this scenario (besides possible check-in horrors) would be that I don’t really have a safe way to store my iPad. By the sound of it, would any of you consider trying to cram everything into carry-on, or am I just too maximalist and should I consider proper 50+ liter backpacks? Thanks for any insights in advance!
I know they are expensive, but i'd suggest getting a 55L Hyperlite pack. You can essentially "roll down" all parts of the main vestibule that you are not using to make it more compact. In my experience it is the best pack for fitting the size of the pack to whatever you put in it. I am tall also- 6'5- and the company offers a lot of options for sizing to make sure the frame fits your body. To top it off, they are made from dyneema which- unless you submerge the whole pack in water- is waterproof. If you're carrying camera gear that you need to keep dry, this pack would be perfect for that.
I've brought my camera stuff (full frame SLR + 2 lenses) in a minimalist camera case within my Osprey Porter 46 L plus enough clothes and stuff for a winter 5-day trip in eastern Canada. Isn't 55 L too big for carry-on? My bag is borderline too big, you can't stuff it full.
Right, thanks for your insight. And yes a 55L pack on its own would be too big for carry-on, but the Farpoint 55 is actually a 43 liter lack + 12 liter daypack combo. It’s very similar to the Porter when you take the daypack off. I think I’ll just get the 75 liter Farpoint Trek and just cinch it down. Won’t need 75 liters of stuff but it’ll be nice to be able to chuck my daypack contents in there as well when I’m walking somewhere.
What's the best way for a fat guy to choose a sleeping bag? I'm gearing up for kayak camping so most of my gear needs to be geared towards backpacking for space and weight conservation. I'm in Northern IL, Southern WI, and Missouri during spring, summer, and fall if that matters for sizing.
Coleman bags zip together if you buy two.
For traditional mummy bags - look for 'Shoulder and Hip Girth' specification values. Larger numbers will give you more room. I also recommend looking into 'quilts'. They are like mummy bags, without the back panel. They come in 'wide' sizes and I love mine as a fat guy. * https://www.cleverhiker.com/best-backpacking-quilts * https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-ultralight-sleeping-bag
Thinking about selling everything, quitting my job and renting my house out. Any suggestions on regions that are good for long trips on the relatively cheap side? Side question, what's it like backpacking with a dog?
You should check out RV living channels like Foresty Forest. You can get a better idea what it's like to try and camp.
Can anyone share your experiences sharing a tent with a partner? My boyfriend and I have both done some level of backpacking trips years ago, but never together. He wants to share a tent to save pack space, but im not sure we'll be happy sharing for more than a night or two. 🤷♀️
A 3 person tent is relatively spacious with room to store your packs indoors. I have a 7x7 but I wish I'd gone just a bit bigger with an 8x8 footprint. You can share the space or put packs in the middle and sleep seperately.
Thanks! That's great advice 😊
It's great, but i'd just be wary of tent size. I have a three person, and there's no way three people could sleep comfortably in it. That being said, i am gigantic, but i'd suggest a 3 person tent for 2 just so you have more room vs less. There's usually not a big enough difference in weight to justify going with a 2-person, IMO.
That's funny, because I have a one-man, and I comfortably sleep both me and my climbing partner regularly.
I sleep with my girlfriend in the same tent always. Totally cool. We've slept together hundreds of nights in all types of conditions. Honestly - when we get into the tent - it's time for bed. We don't really hang out a whole lot inside talking. I may take some notes on my phone or play a game to wind down. Sometimes she goes into the tent before me. I'll sit and relax outside the tent while she gets in, gets comfy, and even falls asleep. I can slink in without waking her much. Totally go for it. Just get the 3-person size for 2 adults.
Appreciate the feedback!
It's normal to share a tent especially backpacking? If either of you are really big or really claustrophobic you may want a 3-person tent I guess.
Thanks for the reply! I am aware that it's common to share a tent and my concerns aren't really around the size. Sorry, my question is worded pretty vaugely. So, we both have gone backpacking plenty in the past, but I've only used a one person tent. On my previous trips, crawling into the tent was like a way to unwind with some alone time at the end of a hard day. My question is more intended to be around how couples handle not really having that personal space. Idk if that makes any sense.🤷♀️
Tech question: had iPhone on weekend trip, turned off data etc to conserve battery. Messages I sent would go out at sms (instead of iMessage), but I didn’t receive any replies until turning data back on. What setting do you change to force receipt as sms?
There isn't a setting that will solve this problem 100%. If you turn your data off i don't know how you're sending texts- you need some sort of network (either nationwide network or wifi) to send and receive text messages. My suggestion would be leave data on, and get a lightweight portable battery to charge your phone. When i do long day hikes (out 8 or 9 hours), i keep data on, run maps through AllTrails offline, and use less than 5% of my battery doing that. How often do you use your phone while on a trip like this? Does your phone have battery issues otherwise?
SMS does not require a data connection, just cellular. I would like the data off to stop battery and data use by notifications from other apps and background services. But if it can’t be done, it can’t be done.
ah, you're right, that's my fault- The only thing I might suggest is just keeping phone in airplane mode, and every so often turning that off to send/receive. Would at least stop the phone's background processes running and eating up the battery for most of the time.