Gear list write-up with links: www.couchtotrail.com/blog/thru-hiking-appalachian-trail-with-383-of-gear-full-gear-list If you want to do trail magic sign up for digital trail angels: www.couchtotrail.com/digital-trail-angels
@@pdvision2194 He isn't including his gear in that budget... he isn't the most straight up truthful youtuber i have ever seen. He is also going to "hike" the whole thing because apparently hitchhiking counts as walking now.
it might be cheap gear but it's a breath of fresh air a youtuber using gear that most people can afford without a 3rd job most youtubers try to pedestal the most expensive up to date modern gear.
yep exactly why I dont really watch anyone that only promotes the top brands that cost an arm and a leg to afford, most everyone will be just fine with the cheaper stuff as we dont use it every week or even every month.
On July 10th, 2022 I was section hiking the CA section L of the PCT Nobo. That morning you said hi as you flew by me like I was almost standing still and I envision a lot of AT thru hikers will get a similar experience this summer. Ever since then I have been following you off and on and you continue to inspire me to seek outside and stay healthy and active.
On the 3F pack: Only the white threads are Dyneema. This was the cost effective way to include in the beginning. The rest is sil-coated nylon. Plenty good enough to hike a trail. Not as water proof as you’re hoping.
I'm super stoked to follow this experiment! We all don't even question, "Can he complete the hike?" I was thinking, "Maybe he's going for the FTK!" ...if you did that with this gear, on that budget, wowza 😆 The BRS will serve you well, mine's still going after 5 years. Curious about the sleeping pad. My friend got one thinking it a steal and it compressed to nothing by day 4 or 5. Hoping you have better luck with yours. Bring on the adventure!
you may know but u can put ur foam pad on the outside under shoulder straps for frame/support it has a little pouch at the bottom and little straps for the top two corners.
So excited how the gear holds up! We need more reasonably priced gear recs! I also have the sleeping bag and it lofts up a lot more after its been out a bit. Ps I love the pot! Used an aluminum one for years and they're so much better to actually cook in compared to the cups that seem to be all the rage now
@@QuadzillaHikes - I watched your calendar year triple crown hike video and appreciate the vicarious nose to the grindstone stamina. During upcoming AT hike you could give examples how that tenacity benefited other parts of your life.
@@QuadzillaHikes This was a great video, and your presentation and charisma is top-tier ! I was wondering why you omitted the budget discussion here. Is it $383 + $1000 in food? Or is it $617 of food for a total overall cost of $1000. Do you have a video discussing the remaining cost-savings for the total trip ? Keep on hiking and being awesome !
Oddly, within the past few months I bought a bunch of the same equipment as you from Ali express. the pad, a 2ul tent, the quilt, the pot and stove, the down jacket, the nite core headlamp. Its pretty bizarre. I used it all on two overnighters and have been happy with everything. subscribed so I can see how the gear I bought holds up to abuse. I've been eyeballing that backpack too but didn't buy it cause I already have a similar lightweight pack. Thanks
Great video, interesting to see all the different gear and prices. Titanium products definitely seem like the winner when it comes to 1:1 quality at a much lower price
id like to think I'm somewhat of an expert on this subject, I used to live on a derelict sailboat in Miami until 2017 when a hurricane wrecked my boat, having nowhere to go or sleep. I met a fellow boat dweller who was leaving to hike the A.T...i had no idea what it was or any prior hiking experience, just that it went from Georgia to Maine, Maine being my home state, where i needed to get back to. Long story short with $500 and some farm work along the way i made it to the white mountains in N.H where i still live.-cpt mud-
Really excited to see this journey and gear review. My Lanshan2 has been amazing so I’m keen to see if your other 3F UL gear is great too. I mean, it would change the game. We’d all start buying it if you legit had a good experience on such a hardcore through hike. Love your content. Good luck and stay safe.
This is a super cool challenge. $1k for an entire thru is stretching it for sure. I think I spent about that on the AZT. I was probably closer to $7k on the AT but during that first hike I had no idea how to budget anything. As far as cheap shoes go, I always get previous year closeout shoes on Amazon. Can almost always find something quality in my size for $50-$70.
They have some crazy deals if you get lucky with finding something in your size that you have been wanting to buy. If they have SuperFeet in stock those things would be worth their weight in gold to beef up the support and comfort in s pair of cheap trail shoes. A word of advice, if they have anything you really want, jump on it and quick. With the low prices things do have the tendency to sell out in very little time. .
Unfortunately, a late start is going to mean less trail magic, unless your supporters can help. My budget in 1975 was $1500 but, the Army didn't let me go. For referrence: a new Chevy C-10 was $2,700. As a "Swamp Yankee"(means very cheap), I like the idea of you going low budget. When I was a PL, I was called the cheapest officer in the Army by most of the NCOs. You'll learn and be able to teach a lot of points. I loved the issue gear from 50+ years ago: poncho, woobie, canteens/cup/stove/pouch, first aid pouch, and ruck. I like a sand tent stake as a trowel so it can be dual purpose. To be light weight now, I like the ponchos from river country($10)(the old woobie fits it), there is a set that I assembled from amazon of a pouch, Nalgene, 24oz cup, stove, and supplies(purification tablets, candles, matches, folding spoon, regular spoon, sock for insulation and easy removal, oatmeal and essentials packets, fire tablets for the stove, amd misc assesories). Are you going for time? Tara Treks is trying a SOBO FKT in August. When I feel up to it(age is tough), I try to do trail magic at the first parking lot into CT. Its a nice place but there is no cell service. One thing for you to consider is that NH and ME start getting cold again in August. Our CT weather guessers predict a hot summer. Its been a very wet spring here. I'm 3 weeks behind planting my garden because its too muddy. In 2018, Matheson Brown did a very low budget thru hike. He was funny but did a bunch of dumpster diving that made him sick. Don't dumpster dive. Happy Trails. Good Luck, Rick
You just gave me a new idea, hike a long trail with a 80s era Army standard issue kit. Not going for a FKT or anything but figure a 90-100 day hike, faster I go the less money I spend. Thanks Rick!
@@QuadzillaHikes When I was a Boy Scout, most of our stuff(including our Dads) were from WWII. It was heavy but atleast we could build fires every night. You may find that some of the NAM issued gear was better than from the 1980s. The hurried build up in the 1980s caused a lot of foul ups in procurement. Our first camis didn't breathe just like the ones issued to Marines in the Pacific. A friend(and boss) of mine was in the second wave a Tarawa. His BN had 50% killed in the first hour. By 1000hrs they had to strip to skivvies because the new camis were causing heat strokes. As a PL, I carried 2 ponchos to snap them together to make a pup tent when needed. Two ponchos, 100' of paracord, and a woobie give you many options. The old ponchos worked as hammocks too. A guy I knew in college did the AT in 66 days in 1973. I'm sure that you can do it under 90. Good Luck, Rick
Also, I am the most curious about your food budget. Can one eat for less then 15 bucks a day? If you finish the trail in 90 days that's $1350. I am excited to see how you break the cost down. I'm a penny pincher so can you tell I'm excited??? Hahaha
I'm thinking giant thing of peanutbutter for like $5, buncha ramen for cheap, then big bags of trail mix. That should cover most of my calorie needs, then some chips, cheap discounted candy, should be able to make it out of the grocery store for under $30 for a 3-5 day resupply. It'll mean not splurging on town food at all though I think.
Ok that could maybe work!! Will you take into account money gifted as well during your hike. Too many questions lol I'll follow along for all the details for sure!!
@@cham_hikes6821 I'd keep like money gifted out of the budget cause that would be not so accurate for other hikers to expect buncha resupply boxes and gifts and whatnot from strangers on the internet. I'd just use it to fund future hikes and keep making videos.
Its funny that im seeing this now because i looked at a lot of the gear on this list. I almost bought the pack but ended up getting a Durston that looks similar to the pack you got (with a frame). I did get the stove, 2 actually. Both got stiff after using a couple of times. Also they turn up like Lil John on Sizzurp. Lol😂.. Definitely want to check out the Lanshan tent but am happy with the X Mid 2.
I am stoked. Your Vlogs are outstanding. Hopefully I can leave you some trail magic in South PA / Maryland. take care of your dawgs and don’t skimp on the shoes:)
I am super excited to see how durable and waterproof the pack is. My husband and I have been using the heavy ass Teton backpacks and we have been unwilling to spend over a hundred dollars on a backpack when those one are still in excellent condition. It sure as hell would be nice to shed several pounds off my base weight!
Jack, super excited to hear the news of your 3rd AT thru! I for one will again follow your journey. I wish you the best in your new gear. That 1100ml cook pot seems like its for two! ;-)
So excited to follow this one Jack! Hopefully when you get to NH I can figure out how to get you some trail magic and support if you need it. Good luck!
I have the exact big 3 setup as you. Same tent, and sleeping bag. But I went with the Naturehike 60l dyneema bag because it has a minimum frame. I absolutely love everything!!!! Great video my guy!!!
I have that pot and stove setup. The stove is definitely made for the tall skinny pots and tends to burn everything in the center of the pot. I like that style pot but now go with a bigger stove so it’s not so tippy. You are an adventurous fool! I love following your craziness✌️.
very excited to see how all the gear pans out. if you would keep some of it or if u would toss it all after the trip. this can really change the hiking/camping game if its all good stuff
Shoes are definitely not an area where you can save money unless you buy last year's model / colours. It's so important to have the right shoes for you when hiking.
The Lanshan is heavily used here in the uk...holds up very well. It’s a copy of the Duplex. This is such an incredible undertaking sir & like so many others, will be watching & taking notes. Thank you.
I bought a silk sleeping bag liner in the UK a long time ago (brand is Lifeventure Silk Liner), and together with a zero degrees C sleeping bag I have been in minus 5 C or more very comfortably. Silk has similar properties to merino wool: it does not retain odor, very easy to wash, it is warm and of course it very soft in the skin. I do not know if they still make them (bought it like 25 year ago), but it is highly recommended.
heck ya! Super cool concept and something I've wanted to do. I'm hiking the cdt this summer and using a $30 knot tarp from aliexpress as my shelter. Its modeled after a MLD patrol tarp. Excited to see how it holds up along with your gear.
excited to follow you along! I just MYOG my new summer quilt, it's based on the EE with 10D shell and Climateshield Apex fill, about a 40 degree bag and cost me under 100 € to make and weighs 473g (16.6oz)
@@QuadzillaHikes no, just looked at pictures of quilts I liked but I have been sewing for years so it wasn't too much of a challenge, I made a "Torrid" Jacket before (just can't afford some of the equipment with import taxes to Europe etc. and the materials are easy to get)
You could probably do the AT without any gear so if it'll work for anyone you're the one that could do it. I'm guessing you're going to get wet with that jacket and be chilly with the sleep system, but the rest will work fine. The 3FUL stuff is pretty solid. I have a 2P Lanshan.
Love the 3f pack, it was my first pack. If I wouldn't want a frame I would still use it. The seams are NOT waterproof, expect quite a lot of water inside when it's raining a lot.
Great video. I think this is a first, several channels have done overnights with budget gear but I have never seen a long hike with budget gear. I can vouch for the Lanshan 1 Pro. I have several nights in it, one with high winds all night on a ridge and it worked great. I use my extra trekking pole to guy out the head end and my umbrella to guy out the foot end which keeps the walls from flapping in wind.
@chrisr2925 I have that same tent actually. I'm used to 2p tents do it feels a bit small but it's fine, keeps ya dry and light, I'll carry a little more weight for the extra space but depending on your preferences it's a good light 1p tent
Awesome goal! Looking forward to following along. I have a feeling that the shoes might be the one area where you'll find that spending more money will be necessary. I've never found any budget options to work well at all, especially if you're doing big miles every day.
I agree, and not worth the risk of some shitty shoes that make me slip and break a leg, or give me knee or feet problems. Found some la sportivas used at REI, $68.50 shipped, that's reasonable if I can stretch 3 pairs of shoes like this that'll be under $200 for shoes for the trip.
Hi there. I was delighted to enjoy your vid and I now have some great take aways to enjoy quality of life. I agree have already embraced many of your suggestions however I've also diverted somewhat into a hydrid approach. My shelter and sleep systems have been American made yet at great prices and weight ratios (Hemlock Mountain Outdoors). Agree that Chinese shoe sizes are all over. You have what looks like a super great pack where as I chose a GG ultra light model. Part of the reason for hybrid approach is warranty replacement vs new via Amazon. My clothes I've been buying Chinese, cookware will come from a small company in CA. Anyway, looking forward to enjoying your hike and progress gear reviews. I'm feeling you're not going to be replacing much if any as you've given this much thought
That's a great approach! I don't see much of it breaking down, the shoes are the biggest worry but I'm going to get used shoes from REI to cover that front.
Send it Jack. I tried to get the nitecore from your link. It took me to the brs. The puffy looks great for less than $20. Evernew makes low/wide 1300ml pots similar to the one you found. Works great for a couple.
I am soooo looking forward to this one! I will definitely be following along. I can speak for the lanshan. They are great tents for what they are. My wife and I have the lanshan 2 and the 2 pro. We sold our duplex after not using it anymore because we liked the Lanshans more. We now have a variety of the xmids but still keep them Lanshans around. I imagine the backpack is probably of the same quality. Shoes might be an issue. Walmart shoes probably won't work either. You might be able to find a mid priced actual hiking boot that would possibly last half of the AT. Be curious to see what you come up with. Oh, and that BRS stove may use a little more fuel, but they are awesome!
I am aspiring to be “Geriatric Quadzilla. I only look to you for your inspiration and guidance LOL. Have a safe AT hike and I will be out there soon. My money is on you for any hike you do.
Yep imma probably use some of my cut off pad for that, but I'm not going to put the whole damn pad back there, that looks ridiculous and shifts the weight way too far back.
Great test to do! 3ful also makes a poncho that I've been considering (in case the jacket doesn't work for you). Not a huge fan of ponchos but they are hard to beat price and weight wise. They can also be a pack cover for those without a waterproof pack or redundancy for a pack liner. Using the z pad as the frame/sizing mechanism for the Qidian pro is an interesting concept. I'm very curious how well it works.
Will you be adding a pack liner/ trash bag on the inside? I would be terrified to trust the waterproofing in that pack 😂 especially considering they may not have added a dwr coating to the down bag or jacket
I took the lanshan 1 pro to japan and it works well. the only time i had an issue was when i was in the northern alps and a big storm came through and even with big rocks on the stakes it still blew over.
That's a challenge after my own heart. I own a lot of the same stuff, but I am using it as my starter gear to get into hiking. I am looking forward to your adventure and finding out how you will fair on the trail.
Also on the Widesea pad. Checking the dimensions and weights of the folded mats, It is a little bit thinner than the Zlite Sol and it feels less warm. I tried it in my backyard at around 40 degrees F one evening and I felt the cold in my back, but I am also a very cold sleeper.
Great video - thanks, I'm always looking for reviews on cheap products. I just personally think that when it comes to animal products one should think carefully about what it means to buy the cheapest option. But I'm still looking forward to your findings and your testing of this stuff - good luck!
The math ain’t mathing. The list you posted adds up to $513.36 and that’s not including the rain jacket, the little towel, Finetrack clothing, shoes, or the fabric you bought to make your hoodie. I’m excited to watch and think it’s super cool you’re making stuff, but what is your budget for food?
I've got Lanshan 1 tent, which is also setup with 1 hiking pole, but unlike Pro version, it has two layers. It weights 900 grams. Honestly, I would go with 2 person version as this one is rather small. When using inflatable mat like Thermarest XTherm or Klymit Static V, the fly can touch my feet and head, especially when using a fluffy sleeping bag. And I'm 175 cm, so not very tall. Oh, and train to setup this beast on different spots, especially uneven ones. It really takes some luck to setup it the first times the way that you can fit well without its walls lying on your face 😁
If you want to find a better shoe check out the saucony excursion. They have really good tread it’s not as good as vibram but it’s better than the max track on lone peaks. I started in those shoes and you can find old models close to $40
Gear list write-up with links: www.couchtotrail.com/blog/thru-hiking-appalachian-trail-with-383-of-gear-full-gear-list
If you want to do trail magic sign up for digital trail angels: www.couchtotrail.com/digital-trail-angels
Rei garage sale , some time I can find brand new shoes for 1/2 off
Would you be open to gear donations that won't cut into the 1k budget?
@@pdvision2194 I don't think I really need anything in terms of gear at this point, appreciate it though
@@pdvision2194 He isn't including his gear in that budget... he isn't the most straight up truthful youtuber i have ever seen. He is also going to "hike" the whole thing because apparently hitchhiking counts as walking now.
@@thomgizziz Most thru hikers hitch a ride into town to resupply. I did the same when I hiked the AT. And besides all that.....HYOH!
it might be cheap gear but it's a breath of fresh air a youtuber using gear that most people can afford without a 3rd job most youtubers try to pedestal the most expensive up to date modern gear.
yep exactly why I dont really watch anyone that only promotes the top brands that cost an arm and a leg to afford, most everyone will be just fine with the cheaper stuff as we dont use it every week or even every month.
On July 10th, 2022 I was section hiking the CA section L of the PCT Nobo. That morning you said hi as you flew by me like I was almost standing still and I envision a lot of AT thru hikers will get a similar experience this summer. Ever since then I have been following you off and on and you continue to inspire me to seek outside and stay healthy and active.
Haha ah wow good memory. Thanks for following along and absolutely keep getting out there :)
This should be an incredible challenge, trying to do the whole trail for $1,000. Look forward to following it.
Hell yeah. You’re the underdog favorite. Look forward to following your great adventure.
Nature loves courage! 🤟🏼
This is going to be an epic hike to follow. Happy trails.🤘🏻🥾⛰️
On the 3F pack: Only the white threads are Dyneema. This was the cost effective way to include in the beginning. The rest is sil-coated nylon. Plenty good enough to hike a trail. Not as water proof as you’re hoping.
Yeah, exactly. Sounds like he might not be a gear nerd. (Great pistons though!)
I'm super stoked to follow this experiment! We all don't even question, "Can he complete the hike?" I was thinking, "Maybe he's going for the FTK!" ...if you did that with this gear, on that budget, wowza 😆 The BRS will serve you well, mine's still going after 5 years. Curious about the sleeping pad. My friend got one thinking it a steal and it compressed to nothing by day 4 or 5. Hoping you have better luck with yours. Bring on the adventure!
I have a feeling that pad might do the same haha, it doesn't feel very foamy. We'll see!
Super excited to follow along with thus challenge. Maybe we will see you on the Trail in PA. Good luck.
See ya out there!
Really stoked to see this. Clearly i hope nothing fails and you're safe, but this experiment opens the gates for a lot more people. Cheers.
you may know but u can put ur foam pad on the outside under shoulder straps for frame/support it has a little pouch at the bottom and little straps for the top two corners.
So excited how the gear holds up! We need more reasonably priced gear recs! I also have the sleeping bag and it lofts up a lot more after its been out a bit. Ps I love the pot! Used an aluminum one for years and they're so much better to actually cook in compared to the cups that seem to be all the rage now
Good to know on that bag!
Can't wait to follow you along! Thanks for sharing all this, you're an awesome human being
Thanks for the nice comment :)
@@QuadzillaHikes - I watched your calendar year triple crown hike video and appreciate the vicarious nose to the grindstone stamina. During upcoming AT hike you could give examples how that tenacity benefited other parts of your life.
@@QuadzillaHikes This was a great video, and your presentation and charisma is top-tier ! I was wondering why you omitted the budget discussion here. Is it $383 + $1000 in food? Or is it $617 of food for a total overall cost of $1000. Do you have a video discussing the remaining cost-savings for the total trip ? Keep on hiking and being awesome !
Oddly, within the past few months I bought a bunch of the same equipment as you from Ali express. the pad, a 2ul tent, the quilt, the pot and stove, the down jacket, the nite core headlamp. Its pretty bizarre. I used it all on two overnighters and have been happy with everything. subscribed so I can see how the gear I bought holds up to abuse. I've been eyeballing that backpack too but didn't buy it cause I already have a similar lightweight pack. Thanks
Great video, interesting to see all the different gear and prices. Titanium products definitely seem like the winner when it comes to 1:1 quality at a much lower price
This is so cool to see, So many people on youtube do aliexpress overnight hikes, but commiting to the whole AT as a test is hectic!
Very exciting! Some of this gear is probably really good looking forward to see u use it
I think the 3F UL stuff will hold up well.
Dude, you are a mad man. I am looking forward to this!
Thank ya! Me too :)
A great test project.
Really excited to see if this gear holds up.
Great budget gear review. I also use 3F UL gear. The pack is made of Dyneema, but not DCF😂. Dyneema ≠ DCF
id like to think I'm somewhat of an expert on this subject, I used to live on a derelict sailboat in Miami until 2017 when a hurricane wrecked my boat, having nowhere to go or sleep. I met a fellow boat dweller who was leaving to hike the A.T...i had no idea what it was or any prior hiking experience, just that it went from Georgia to Maine, Maine being my home state, where i needed to get back to. Long story short with $500 and some farm work along the way i made it to the white mountains in N.H where i still live.-cpt mud-
I paid more than that for my EE quilt. Your adventure will be fun to watch to see what holds up and what fails.
That's wild.
Just discovered you. This is brilliant. Excited to watch along.
Thanks for following!
Such an exciting undertaking! As colossal as your previous journeys looking forward to the updates and progress.
Great video, thanks for sharing! As a funny note, the closed captions said $11,000 in gear which honestly feels about right, lol!
Lol ironic
This is amazing!! Hiker boxes will definitely come in clutch!
Gonna try and not rely on them too much, little things here n there but I don't want to take food from people that are legitimately broke.
Good luck, brother. Love to watch your journeys. Hope to see you on the trail in maine
Thanks! See ya our there
The 1000 $ challenge is one of a kind. I'm very much looking forward to see your experience.
Can’t wait to follow! Best of luck Jack 🥾🥾
Thank you!
I'm leaving in a week for the trail maybe I'll see you there!
Bro you are unreal!!!! Cant wait to cheer you on, brother.
Thanks so much!!
Really excited to see this journey and gear review. My Lanshan2 has been amazing so I’m keen to see if your other 3F UL gear is great too. I mean, it would change the game. We’d all start buying it if you legit had a good experience on such a hardcore through hike. Love your content. Good luck and stay safe.
The Lanshan is a solid budget tent. It’s a tight fit for bigger people. Headroom can be an issue. Can’t wait to follow
What a great challenge! Cant wait till you begin. Thanks for letting us follow along on another adventure. Best of luck.
Thanks so much!
I did Springer to harpers ferry on $1,000 80 days.
It’s doable
That's great to know, 80 days, flyin
Wow ! What a legend ! Can’t wait to see your content about this adventure ! Love it
More to come!
This is a super cool challenge. $1k for an entire thru is stretching it for sure. I think I spent about that on the AZT. I was probably closer to $7k on the AT but during that first hike I had no idea how to budget anything. As far as cheap shoes go, I always get previous year closeout shoes on Amazon. Can almost always find something quality in my size for $50-$70.
Love the concept here! It'll be cool to see what's possible using a whole heck of a lot less money than the common assumption.
Sierra has good shoes (lasts years model, etc.) for really good prices on occasion…..well worth a look.
They have some crazy deals if you get lucky with finding something in your size that you have been wanting to buy. If they have SuperFeet in stock those things would be worth their weight in gold to beef up the support and comfort in s pair of cheap trail shoes.
A word of advice, if they have anything you really want, jump on it and quick. With the low prices things do have the tendency to sell out in very little time.
.
I found some Nazaroo Insoles, $30 on Amazon and feels just like superfeet
Unfortunately, a late start is going to mean less trail magic, unless your supporters can help. My budget in 1975 was $1500 but, the Army didn't let me go. For referrence: a new Chevy C-10 was $2,700.
As a "Swamp Yankee"(means very cheap), I like the idea of you going low budget. When I was a PL, I was called the cheapest officer in the Army by most of the NCOs. You'll learn and be able to teach a lot of points. I loved the issue gear from 50+ years ago: poncho, woobie, canteens/cup/stove/pouch, first aid pouch, and ruck. I like a sand tent stake as a trowel so it can be dual purpose. To be light weight now, I like the ponchos from river country($10)(the old woobie fits it), there is a set that I assembled from amazon of a pouch, Nalgene, 24oz cup, stove, and supplies(purification tablets, candles, matches, folding spoon, regular spoon, sock for insulation and easy removal, oatmeal and essentials packets, fire tablets for the stove, amd misc assesories).
Are you going for time? Tara Treks is trying a SOBO FKT in August. When I feel up to it(age is tough), I try to do trail magic at the first parking lot into CT. Its a nice place but there is no cell service.
One thing for you to consider is that NH and ME start getting cold again in August. Our CT weather guessers predict a hot summer. Its been a very wet spring here. I'm 3 weeks behind planting my garden because its too muddy.
In 2018, Matheson Brown did a very low budget thru hike. He was funny but did a bunch of dumpster diving that made him sick. Don't dumpster dive. Happy Trails. Good Luck, Rick
You just gave me a new idea, hike a long trail with a 80s era Army standard issue kit. Not going for a FKT or anything but figure a 90-100 day hike, faster I go the less money I spend. Thanks Rick!
@@QuadzillaHikes When I was a Boy Scout, most of our stuff(including our Dads) were from WWII. It was heavy but atleast we could build fires every night. You may find that some of the NAM issued gear was better than from the 1980s. The hurried build up in the 1980s caused a lot of foul ups in procurement. Our first camis didn't breathe just like the ones issued to Marines in the Pacific. A friend(and boss) of mine was in the second wave a Tarawa. His BN had 50% killed in the first hour. By 1000hrs they had to strip to skivvies because the new camis were causing heat strokes. As a PL, I carried 2 ponchos to snap them together to make a pup tent when needed. Two ponchos, 100' of paracord, and a woobie give you many options. The old ponchos worked as hammocks too. A guy I knew in college did the AT in 66 days in 1973. I'm sure that you can do it under 90. Good Luck, Rick
Stop it!! This AMAZING! I love this idea!! If anyone can make it happen, it's you, Jack!! Can't wait to watch!!
Also, I am the most curious about your food budget. Can one eat for less then 15 bucks a day? If you finish the trail in 90 days that's $1350. I am excited to see how you break the cost down.
I'm a penny pincher so can you tell I'm excited??? Hahaha
I'm thinking giant thing of peanutbutter for like $5, buncha ramen for cheap, then big bags of trail mix. That should cover most of my calorie needs, then some chips, cheap discounted candy, should be able to make it out of the grocery store for under $30 for a 3-5 day resupply. It'll mean not splurging on town food at all though I think.
Ok that could maybe work!! Will you take into account money gifted as well during your hike. Too many questions lol I'll follow along for all the details for sure!!
@@cham_hikes6821 I'd keep like money gifted out of the budget cause that would be not so accurate for other hikers to expect buncha resupply boxes and gifts and whatnot from strangers on the internet. I'd just use it to fund future hikes and keep making videos.
Ok that is super dope!! I love this approach. Looking forward to learning more from you again this summer. Thanks for the content!
Thanks and thanks for the updates on gear as you go.
You bet
Its funny that im seeing this now because i looked at a lot of the gear on this list.
I almost bought the pack but ended up getting a Durston that looks similar to the pack you got (with a frame).
I did get the stove, 2 actually. Both got stiff after using a couple of times. Also they turn up like Lil John on Sizzurp. Lol😂..
Definitely want to check out the Lanshan tent but am happy with the X Mid 2.
Great idea. We know you can do the hike. Backwards and blindfolded. The hobo budget will be a challenge.
It'll be a fun challenge layer :)
I'm excited to follow and see how it goes. I appreciate you doing this. Good luck!
Thank you!
I am stoked. Your Vlogs are outstanding. Hopefully I can leave you some trail magic in South PA / Maryland. take care of your dawgs and don’t skimp on the shoes:)
Thank you! Yeah picking up used from REI
It’s really awesome that you are doing this! Good luck and have fun out there!
Thank you!!
I’m looking forward to seeing how the pack and tent hold up as I’m looking at both of these to lighten my base weight.
I am super excited to see how durable and waterproof the pack is. My husband and I have been using the heavy ass Teton backpacks and we have been unwilling to spend over a hundred dollars on a backpack when those one are still in excellent condition. It sure as hell would be nice to shed several pounds off my base weight!
Jack, super excited to hear the news of your 3rd AT thru! I for one will again follow your journey. I wish you the best in your new gear. That 1100ml cook pot seems like its for two! ;-)
Haha nope I need all that space to eat for me :)
This is going to be awesome. Really hope to see you in GA when you get here.
I hope so too!
So excited to follow this one Jack! Hopefully when you get to NH I can figure out how to get you some trail magic and support if you need it. Good luck!
Can't wait!
I have the exact big 3 setup as you. Same tent, and sleeping bag. But I went with the Naturehike 60l dyneema bag because it has a minimum frame. I absolutely love everything!!!! Great video my guy!!!
Oh amazing, how do you find the widesea quilt, that's the piece I'm most unsure about.
I like this challenge! Will follow this experiment from Sweden. Good luck to you!
Have a safe hike Jack 👊🏻👍🏻 God Bless 🙏🏻Appreciate you my friend !
Thanks, you too!
I have that pot and stove setup. The stove is definitely made for the tall skinny pots and tends to burn everything in the center of the pot. I like that style pot but now go with a bigger stove so it’s not so tippy. You are an adventurous fool! I love following your craziness✌️.
Oh that's good to know on the burning food in the middle.
Using a Lanshan 2 for 5 years and also have UL Trekking poles from them for trailrunning. You will like the 3FUl stuff.
Good luck with this trek. Looking forward to how the gear works out.
You and me both!
very excited to see how all the gear pans out. if you would keep some of it or if u would toss it all after the trip. this can really change the hiking/camping game if its all good stuff
Ohhh, single wall 🤔 … makes sense why I opted for the land Shan 2P now
Shoes are definitely not an area where you can save money unless you buy last year's model / colours. It's so important to have the right shoes for you when hiking.
Looking forward to this hike. Good luck.
Thanks!
The Lanshan is heavily used here in the uk...holds up very well. It’s a copy of the Duplex.
This is such an incredible undertaking sir & like so many others, will be watching & taking notes. Thank you.
Thank you!
I bought a silk sleeping bag liner in the UK a long time ago (brand is Lifeventure Silk Liner), and together with a zero degrees C sleeping bag I have been in minus 5 C or more very comfortably. Silk has similar properties to merino wool: it does not retain odor, very easy to wash, it is warm and of course it very soft in the skin. I do not know if they still make them (bought it like 25 year ago), but it is highly recommended.
Good info, thanks! Silk would feel real nice at night
I really appreciate you doing this.
Really looking forward to following your AT journey!
Thank ya!
Incredible!!! I love this idea
heck ya! Super cool concept and something I've wanted to do. I'm hiking the cdt this summer and using a $30 knot tarp from aliexpress as my shelter. Its modeled after a MLD patrol tarp. Excited to see how it holds up along with your gear.
Oh amazing report back I'd love to hear how that tarp works out.
excited to follow you along! I just MYOG my new summer quilt, it's based on the EE with 10D shell and Climateshield Apex fill, about a 40 degree bag and cost me under 100 € to make and weighs 473g (16.6oz)
Amazing! glad to hear your MYOG setup worked out, did you follow any videos or guides?
@@QuadzillaHikes no, just looked at pictures of quilts I liked but I have been sewing for years so it wasn't too much of a challenge, I made a "Torrid" Jacket before (just can't afford some of the equipment with import taxes to Europe etc. and the materials are easy to get)
You could probably do the AT without any gear so if it'll work for anyone you're the one that could do it. I'm guessing you're going to get wet with that jacket and be chilly with the sleep system, but the rest will work fine. The 3FUL stuff is pretty solid. I have a 2P Lanshan.
Love the 3f pack, it was my first pack. If I wouldn't want a frame I would still use it.
The seams are NOT waterproof, expect quite a lot of water inside when it's raining a lot.
Size 13?
Aint no way bro! 😂
Really enjoyed this gear list and your delivery. "You could kill a frekin bear with this trowel". 😂😂😂
Great video. I think this is a first, several channels have done overnights with budget gear but I have never seen a long hike with budget gear. I can vouch for the Lanshan 1 Pro. I have several nights in it, one with high winds all night on a ridge and it worked great. I use my extra trekking pole to guy out the head end and my umbrella to guy out the foot end which keeps the walls from flapping in wind.
Oo good little hack thanks.
@@QuadzillaHikes no problem, I may upgrade it to an HMG Mid 1. Do you have experience with this tent?
@chrisr2925 I have that same tent actually. I'm used to 2p tents do it feels a bit small but it's fine, keeps ya dry and light, I'll carry a little more weight for the extra space but depending on your preferences it's a good light 1p tent
Awesome goal! Looking forward to following along. I have a feeling that the shoes might be the one area where you'll find that spending more money will be necessary. I've never found any budget options to work well at all, especially if you're doing big miles every day.
I agree, and not worth the risk of some shitty shoes that make me slip and break a leg, or give me knee or feet problems. Found some la sportivas used at REI, $68.50 shipped, that's reasonable if I can stretch 3 pairs of shoes like this that'll be under $200 for shoes for the trip.
Hi there. I was delighted to enjoy your vid and I now have some great take aways to enjoy quality of life. I agree have already embraced many of your suggestions however I've also diverted somewhat into a hydrid approach. My shelter and sleep systems have been American made yet at great prices and weight ratios (Hemlock Mountain Outdoors). Agree that Chinese shoe sizes are all over. You have what looks like a super great pack where as I chose a GG ultra light model. Part of the reason for hybrid approach is warranty replacement vs new via Amazon. My clothes I've been buying Chinese, cookware will come from a small company in CA. Anyway, looking forward to enjoying your hike and progress gear reviews. I'm feeling you're not going to be replacing much if any as you've given this much thought
That's a great approach! I don't see much of it breaking down, the shoes are the biggest worry but I'm going to get used shoes from REI to cover that front.
Send it Jack. I tried to get the nitecore from your link. It took me to the brs. The puffy looks great for less than $20. Evernew makes low/wide 1300ml pots similar to the one you found. Works great for a couple.
Links should be fixed now! Yep Evernew is what we used on the TA, that thing costs like $50 or more!
I am soooo looking forward to this one! I will definitely be following along. I can speak for the lanshan. They are great tents for what they are. My wife and I have the lanshan 2 and the 2 pro. We sold our duplex after not using it anymore because we liked the Lanshans more. We now have a variety of the xmids but still keep them Lanshans around. I imagine the backpack is probably of the same quality. Shoes might be an issue. Walmart shoes probably won't work either. You might be able to find a mid priced actual hiking boot that would possibly last half of the AT. Be curious to see what you come up with. Oh, and that BRS stove may use a little more fuel, but they are awesome!
Great to hear on the feedback of Lanshan and yep I think as long as it fits me decently the pack should work really well.
This will be super exciting to learn from
That is awesome! I am looking forward to hear about the sleeping bag.
Me too haha.
I am aspiring to be “Geriatric Quadzilla. I only look to you for your inspiration and guidance LOL. Have a safe AT hike and I will be out there soon. My money is on you for any hike you do.
These Hokz don't even have drain holes!🤣
3F UL makes pretty decent ponchos if the rain jacket doesn't work out.
Looking forward to see this!✌
Good to know, I ended up with Frogg Toggs, only $17 on amazon!
I like the rebrand from the healthy gamer! Although I liked that tag a lot too
I'm going to get back to doing healthy gamer on a different channel if I ever have the time. Next year! hah.
no way i JUST ordered a backpacking pack and then a day later find the holy grail of ultralight packs
3ful use the concertina pad to act as a back and structure ie frame
Yep imma probably use some of my cut off pad for that, but I'm not going to put the whole damn pad back there, that looks ridiculous and shifts the weight way too far back.
Try to wash the sleeping bag with proper down detergent for the loft . It worked on my Aliexpress quilt .
Excited for this experiment
Great test to do! 3ful also makes a poncho that I've been considering (in case the jacket doesn't work for you). Not a huge fan of ponchos but they are hard to beat price and weight wise. They can also be a pack cover for those without a waterproof pack or redundancy for a pack liner. Using the z pad as the frame/sizing mechanism for the Qidian pro is an interesting concept. I'm very curious how well it works.
Oh interesting I'll have to take a look at their ponchos. I've never been one for pack covers, just a liner inside is the best solution imo.
Will you be adding a pack liner/ trash bag on the inside? I would be terrified to trust the waterproofing in that pack 😂 especially considering they may not have added a dwr coating to the down bag or jacket
Yep I always have a trash bag liner.
I took the lanshan 1 pro to japan and it works well. the only time i had an issue was when i was in the northern alps and a big storm came through and even with big rocks on the stakes it still blew over.
Great to hear! I'm pretty excited about the tent.
Trail Days this weekend Damascus Virginia.
👍🐿👍
Decided it'd be too much to try to squeeze that in, are you going? Enjoy!
@QuadzillaHikes yes, the wife and I are going. The prices you just shared will definetly be more approachable than the top shelf gear there.
Excited for this! I use the 2P lanshan and I like it! (I haven’t used it as much as a thru hike but it gets me out there!)
Great to hear!
That's a challenge after my own heart. I own a lot of the same stuff, but I am using it as my starter gear to get into hiking. I am looking forward to your adventure and finding out how you will fair on the trail.
Also on the Widesea pad. Checking the dimensions and weights of the folded mats, It is a little bit thinner than the Zlite Sol and it feels less warm. I tried it in my backyard at around 40 degrees F one evening and I felt the cold in my back, but I am also a very cold sleeper.
I'll keep that in mind!
Great video - thanks, I'm always looking for reviews on cheap products. I just personally think that when it comes to animal products one should think carefully about what it means to buy the cheapest option. But I'm still looking forward to your findings and your testing of this stuff - good luck!
Makes sense, I just learned about the different types of down just this week. Seems pretty awful to pluck em from life animals.
The math ain’t mathing. The list you posted adds up to $513.36 and that’s not including the rain jacket, the little towel, Finetrack clothing, shoes, or the fabric you bought to make your hoodie. I’m excited to watch and think it’s super cool you’re making stuff, but what is your budget for food?
I've got Lanshan 1 tent, which is also setup with 1 hiking pole, but unlike Pro version, it has two layers. It weights 900 grams.
Honestly, I would go with 2 person version as this one is rather small. When using inflatable mat like Thermarest XTherm or Klymit Static V, the fly can touch my feet and head, especially when using a fluffy sleeping bag. And I'm 175 cm, so not very tall.
Oh, and train to setup this beast on different spots, especially uneven ones. It really takes some luck to setup it the first times the way that you can fit well without its walls lying on your face 😁
If you want to find a better shoe check out the saucony excursion. They have really good tread it’s not as good as vibram but it’s better than the max track on lone peaks. I started in those shoes and you can find old models close to $40
Dude I thought that dog barking was outside my house 😂 I was like “why is it stopping when stop the vid” 😂
I am curious to see how the gear holds up. Thank you for doing this for us poors...
I have that tent, it’s awesome!
This is incredible.