As an European who loves stuff from Decathlon, I view their stuff as the gear you get when you are getting into a hobby, want stuff that works well and will last while still spending a fraction of the price of the super high tier gear
@@ruben247 honestly I spent a lot on high tier gear and I had better duration with some of Decathlon products, it's not only to get into a hobby, it's being smarter sometimes
As Decathlon fan from EU, here are some things to know: - all their pants and shorts models are REALLY tight in ties - sleeping bags are budget for car camping, not for hiking. To bulky and heavy for hikers - cookware is also targeted to car campers - sleeping mats are great. Check out foam and inflatable ones, the one you got is really bad - everything merino is high quality and affordable - shoes are really good and reliable you spend Quechua, Forclaz for hiking and Kipsta for trail running To save weight and money you can replace: - sandals with Nabaiji slab 100 a 6 euro slippers - take regular flece MH100 10 Euros - forclaz trekking 100 down jacket for half of price And BEST pillow in the WORLD MT500 inflatable pillow. 10/10 would recommend while one in your video is 4/10. I have them booth
Yes yes yes to the pillow. I tried pricier brands and I still go for the MT500. To the clothing: my body is just not right for their fit (or the other way around). French brands are known for their small sizing (don't get me started with italian and spanish sizing). I am pretty straight forward a Medium in other European sizes, but a XL with Decathlon might be still too small for me as they are sized for small framed, short people. Usually pants are too short and tighs too tight. On the upper parts the ribcage is just too narrow. I don't like it but that's just the way it is.
Kipsta is ball sports (specifically football). Kalenji/Kiprun is their trail running brand. Their merino socks are horrible and will stretch almost immediately. They have a hiking and a trekking section. The trekking section has low weight good sleeping bags which are not bad. Their brand is Forclaz. (quechua is the hiking brand). Also Simond (mountain climbing) is a bought brand with a reputable history and it is very great quality. The rest I agree with. Source: I used to work for Decathlon.
Ha, now you know how we europeans feel whenever youtubers don't put metric conversions on their videos! I do like Decathlon, it's really good if you are just starting out with outdoors activities and need some affordable gear. I also often wear the clothes for work (I work outside) as they are cheap and hard wearing!
@@greensheep6718 yeah, and actually here in the UK we don't use all metric - we use miles and mph, and most people can use feet and metres interchangeably. Fahrenheit means absolutely nothing to me though, I simply cannot understand it!!
That's a shame that Decathlon doesn't carry tents on your side of the pond. Their tents are seriously awesome! High quality and incredibly well designed. Absolutely agree on your opinion of the fleece and puffy. I have both and love them to bits.
They sell some models in Canada. I keep recommending the 50$CAD two person tent as it is unbeatable as price. But for others tents, so far I dont feel they have great products for backpacking. It seems they have newer models in Europe, hopefully here soon, that are very lightweight for a great price.
@@nicolaslemay that's fair, I don't have the experience with most their tents. I own the Forclaz MT900 2 person and it absolutely rocks. It's way pricier than the one you have - I think it can only be considered "budget" if you compare it with ultralight tents as it kind of sits in that market. It has similar materials and construction as many other UL tents, it's a little bit heavier than comparable UL tents but not by much - and it's a LOT cheaper. UL is pricey.
absolutely agree and that's the exact words when I try to explain how Decathlon is! if I'm into a new sport / hobby, Decathlon's product line makes it very easy to get into that sport / hobby. product codes and their prices arranged as XX100 cheap - lower quality, XX500 medium price - quality, XX900 expensive - higher quality. I go with 100 or 500 line if I am new into the sport / hobby. after identifying how deep I would like to go and find out which features I need, I go with 900 or maybe another brand with higher or specific features.
Miranda doing mental math for the conversion of water, while holding the nalgene with both metric and imperial is an amazing representation of post-hiking brain. Please never change.
shopping at decathlon is a bit of an art; i have one near me in canada and eventually you start to learn what's likely to be good and what's not. i'll buy the more expensive "500" gear for things that really matter, like rain coats (i want those pit zips...) but you can get by with the cheaper versions of a lot of items. some of the in-store brands (forclaz, quechua, etc.) are also better than others at specific things. it's one of those stores that it really helps to go in person, so it's a shame there aren't more across america also, their women's clothes fitting weird is not just a you problem! i'm a size small and i've had to return or exchange things numerous times because their clothing is just kind of inconsistent, not sure why
I don’t know if anyone else agrees with me but Miranda and Rainer make the best hiking/camping partners..I just wish I could be there having fun with them ❤❤
Maranda, I would like to challenge you to do some serious hiking !!! Let's say a short one like the PCT from Bridge of the gods to the terminus at WA / Canada border !!!!! The time is perfect for it. Vlog it n share. 🎉
I’m from Australia and when I was bikepacking in France I bought a lot of gear from decathlon a lot of which they don’t sell here , it’s been six years and I still use the stuff ( tent , sleep pad , blow up esky , cups & plates , gas burner and more .
I LOVE these "budget-minded" videos. It's great for people graduating from "I yeeted my gear from my car into my campsite" into "I am willing to walk a little for a campsite."
I'am french and i was shocked by the price of decathlon gears. They are at least 10 dollars cheaper in my country. The exact headlamp is 15 dollars here, and for 20 dollars you have a really better one, only 45g. For the sleeping pad, for the same price, you can afford the upper model which is way more confortable and thicker. So i agree, for the price Miranda paid, it's not worth. It goes the same way for european, US gears are a lot more expensive for us.
I'm in the Netherlands and I use a lot of Decathlon stuff for hiking! I used to have a backpack of theirs, and the only reason I got a different one is because I didn't like the lack of exterior packing space. I like to give everything its own place, and this bag was more of the 'keep it all in the main space in the bag' variety. But it's super comfortable, and was the ONLY small volume 'woman's' bag I could find, which I need, because I'm short, and most unisex bags don't fit my body right. And I simply do not need 60 liters 🤷 I haven't tried any of their sleeping mats, sleeping bags, and tents, because they don't really have lightweight stuff that's also good for lower temperatures. Currently, I think I have a headlight, inflatable pillow (with padded cover), longsleeve, tanktop, t-shirt, shorts, some cooking stuff, socks, underwear, fleece cardigan/jacket, rain gear, beanie, thin gloves and waterproof gloves, and probably some small stuff I'm forgetting about, in my gear rotation. I also used to use their electrolyte tablets, but they don't have the ones I used to get anymore ☹️ and the backpack was really good quality, so I would recommend it, but it wasn't exactly what I personally was looking for so I got a different one.
The best part of your film is at 09:06 where your cat is waiting patiently for you to finish emptying the cardboard box 😂 because I’m fairly sure they will claim it 😂
I remember years ago Backpacker Magazine did a trip using gear they got from Wal-Mart. It did pretty well, except their tent leaked pretty bad. I'd like to see Miranda do an updated version.
I lived in North Carolina for 4 years, and Phoenix for 4 years, both the hottest places ive lived, and I'm always surprised at how some people can wear hoodies and sweaters all year long!
I’m always unpacking and repacking my Atlas Adventure to try and shave some weight off but still have everything I need/want!! In fact my gear does that more than actual camping. So when I saw yours weighing in at 31 lbs. I started the process all over again because my kit tips the scales at 21 lbs. My goal has always been 18 lbs. Mainly because I’m a senior, weight only 135 lbs.due to recovery from cancer and all the other issues that come along with aging. You my friend give me motivation and strength to keep plugging away!!!!! For that I’m forever grateful!!!!!
There are more gears Decathlon sell in other countries than in the US. We used to have an actual store of Decathlon here in the bay area a few years back (pre Covid) and they used to carry way more stuff (including backpacking tents). Now they have shifted their focus in the US and only commit to selling hike/camp and bicycle gears. I have their sleep bag liner, hiking boots, trail runners, and my boyfriend has one of their packs, we also have an inflatable kayak from them, and all of these have been working really well. Most of their gears are easily 30% - 50% cheaper than other brands offered in the US, but be sure to check out more reviews on them before you buy (reviews can be hard to find, a lot of those reviews are prob coming from people in Asia or Europe)
It’s sad to see how much less stuff they sell. I used to be able to order just about anything not long ago. I actually emailed them and they said that each “Country” picks which gear they want to focus on. That’s why you can’t not climbing gear anymore for example.
❤❤I love Decathlon products btw that’s my jacket! It may go to for winter time and it’s so light and keeps me warm. I love that Tucker and her cat made an appearance - puppy and cat 🐈⬛ cuteness.
I love Decathlon. They rock! Last time I was backpacking in Europe, I was flying out of Madrid and decided that I needed a duffle to check my pack home in. Off to Decthlon I went. €10 later I had one that did the trick and still looks great for more adventures to come.
Decathlon's Forclaz Trek (now called MT apparently) packs are easily THE budget pack pick for me. There are things about it that I like more than my Granite Gear pack (easy adjustments, TILTED WATER BOTTLE POCKET!, great access, and very durable). I've been more skeptical about some of the other things I've seen from them, but I bought a pack for my friend as a gift, and it is so impressive.
Waterproof trail hikers are fantastic for example, when you need to wear micro spikes or snowshoes for your trail or on shoulder seasons when it’s muddy, and your feet are in the wet a lot.
I love this! Now, I hope this comment reaches the team. I don't know if this is available in your country but I'm from the Philippines and all of my gears are either Dacathlon or Naturehike(mostly). Maybe you can consider reviewing Naturehike products next time. 😁
I used a Decathlon pillow (£12) on my AT hike. It is the best pillow I’ve found in 4yrs of looking….add in the removable fabric cover that can be cleaned…….its the best out there I have other Decathlon gear. It is very keenly priced gear.
“Literally could not have been more wrong.” 😂 That cracked me up. Sometimes the Earth surprises us. ❤ Great video. Once again making backpacking accessible to everyone AND challenging old pros. The research on the prices and the discussion on cost versus value was great. Team MGO is awesome!
Excellent video! I love all of them, you and Rainier are the best. I discovered you right after I retired during covid isolation and you make me want to backpack. I'm in good shape for my age and I'm active and you make me want to get in even better shape and take up backpacking. Not many people inspire me to get into better shape so pat yourself on the back. Thank you for looking at budget gear, it will make it easier for people on a tight budget to enjoy the outdoors, including me. Keep doing what you do, you show the world how much fun can be had out there.
I love the focus on more budget and entry level options! When I don't backpack enough to justify the super expensive lightweight gear, or it isn't available in my country, this is so much more relatable than a lot of the UL gear focused US creators. Love this content, you, and your team, keep making the diverse content you're so great at!
Miranda, I wanted to thank you for introducing me to LMNT. I have Hashimoto's, and LMNT has been a game-changer in keeping me hydrated. My skin has never looked better, and my migraines are less frequent. It makes me smile every time I see them sponsor your videos. :)
Thanks so much for the beginning of a budget series ❤ Can I suggest also including budget backpacking food?? The branded dehydrated meals we usually see you using are too expensive for some of us, so homemade or alternative options would be awesome to explore
I really enjoy seeing all of the budget gear videos from outdoor/backpacking channels! One question: What do you do with this stuff once you’ve made the video? Do you sell it? Give it away? Keep it for another time?
awesome!! Decathlon is THE biggest outdoors gear shop here in Brazil, and it´s great to see a famous outdoorsy youtuber talking about some of their gear since most of the US stuff is unavailable or way too expensive for us here
That campsite was gorgeous. Loved the gear review. I learned about Decathlon when I visited Morocco and Spain last year. I was impressed with their clothing. A much needed review from you about their gear. Cheers!
I have a 13 year old decathlon 2 season sleeping bag that cost me £30 and I love it, it’s super comfortable and packs really small,I don’t think they make it anymore though, but it’s definitely stood the test of time and so many expeditions!
As a Jindo owner myself, I watch for the few fleeting glimpses of the trail dog. He looks just like my good boy Sonny. And, oh yeah, the tremendous personality of the host adds a lot :)
Thank you Miranda for this video. I’ve been wanting to collect affordable backpacking gear and hopes to eventually take on a longer trip. But can’t invest in expensive lightweight gear right now. I’m looking forward to that video with all of your recommendations from all the different companies including Walmart! That will be so helpful.
Hello from the Land Down Under! I'm so glad you have gone to producing your episodes weekly. I do my cardio in the gym on Tuesday mornings and the elliptical machine was so boring until I now have your show to watch each week. It makes the time go by so fast. Love how you keep it real. Also, love the budget gear videos. Keep them coming.
I've had similar experiences with most of what you're testing here, minus the sleeping pad, which I was warned away from up front by a friend who did the experiment for me. Started back to backpacking a couple years ago after quite a few years off, needed all new gear, didn't want to shell out for premium brands where I could avoid it. From what I bought at the time, I'm still using the wool shirts, shoes, MT100 men's jacket when I need a hooded one (that same friend gave me a non-hooded, button version of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer which is a great and much lighter "1.5 season" option), and pillow. I still have the men's version of that MT100 50L pack, and the 23F version of the sleeping bag you used. I got a lot of use out of both of them over the fairly short time I've had them, but I did finally have to go with lighter options. I'm not an ultralight purist by any means, but I'm in my 50s and lightening the load is a health issue: dodgy knees, sciatica, back issues, etc. The men's version of that pack is 3.5lbs, and the sleeping bag is 4.6 lbs. Replacing them with lightweight options -- at significant expense, it's worth noting -- took more than 5lbs off before I even started looking at packing less clothing, packing food based on need rather than fear, etc. For a 2-day trip I think they're both probably fine, but if you're carrying more than a couple days of food plus a bear can, they're really not usable unless a 45-lb carry before water weight is feasible for you.
Thanks for the Decathlon gear demo! I’m a big fan of there’s and have been getting gear from backpacks to climbing gear to bikes for years now. Totally off topic- have you ener done a video of how to do dishes while on the trail and properly dispose of the grey water? Keep up the great content!
A really useful video, thanks. I like Decathlon and have a lot of their stuff and am very happy with almost all of it. A couple of tips for Decathlon gear. Sizes. Decathlon are Euro sizes, which are 1 to 1 1/2 sizes smaller than US sizes. For example, I am US L/XL, I am EU size 2XL/3XL, and if anyone shops on Alibaba, I am Chinese 5XL (Asian sizes have narrower hips and shoulders). Grades: Decathlon usually do 2 or more grades of the same gear. The bigger the number the higher the grade. As a rule the 100 grade (eg MT100), is the base model. The 900 grade is the top grade. There are also other grades, depending on the gear, you might see 200, 300, 500. in gear names This is reflected in the price. Sometimes the grade is based on durability, other times the weather performance. Just my 2c.
Weird sleeping mat. Decathlon has better inflatable ones with higher R values. Decathlon have MT500 & MT900 products that are usually higher quality and lighter/smaller. They also do down sleeping bags. I think some of those would have worked better for you. Especially, regarding space.
I am forever grateful for the friends and near-strangers from Meet Up groups who lent me backpacking gear while I was building up my own collection over a few years. I tell myself that the reason I now have so much gear now is not that I am a gear junkie... lol... rather (also) that it allows me to bring others on trips with me who don't have or don't want to invest in a full kit of backpacking gear!!! Borrowing from friends also lets you figure out what you maybe like or don't like in gear. I'd love to see a video on types of gear in a kit where it's like, Budget or Nah. There are some items that are 100% not worth spending a lot of money on these days thanks to what's available (lightweight cook kit, water filter, pillow...) but there are others where it can absolutely be worth it to spent some extra money for value, durability, comfort.... And some pieces can be wobblers, you can cheap out and be fine but you can also spend a ton of money (apparently, down jackets.) Great video!!!
I just came back from my first hiking trip in the north of Sweden and having a large Decathlon around the corner I had quite some gear from them, although I did mix & match with some more high end gear. I did make some different choices although I think that has to do with regional availability as well. I choose the MT900 0 °C down sleeping bag and the MT900 air sleeping mattras (R5.1) and was fortunate I could borrow the MT900 1P trekking tent they offer in Europe. I was happy with the sleeping bag and sleeping mat! They were less in weight and volume compared to the ones you choose and because I had an air mattras there was a bit more thickness and comfort there. For me they were warm enough even though the tempratures dropped down to -1 celcius one night. The tent I was not so happy with, Although it was just 1.3kg and I could sit up inside, but it was hard to move around, the sleeping mat was a snug fit in the available space and I had to leave most of my gear in the vestibule. For my next trip I will definitely consider purchasing a different tent so I was really happy I could borrow the tent I would otherwise have purchased. I've been using their wool shirts for day hikes for years now so of course a couple of them came with me on my hike and the down jacket was part of my gear as well. I didn't bring a fleece on my trip, I have been using a wool sweater from decathlon I've been using for some time now instead and that was just perfect.
How did you get so lucky with a partner like Rainer! "Yeeeeeeaahh" "No, no none of that" Impressive gollum reenactment Absolutely love you Miranda and your random blurts 😂
One of my favourite things from Decathlon is a lightweight toiletries bag. It has several small compartments to organise your stuff and has a loop so you can hang it up somewher, as you might want to do in many bathrooms at campsites.
For a recent three-week trip to Europe, I wanted to try out a couple of 40-something liter packs. I compared the Patagonia 45-liter MLC to the Decathlon Forclaz 40-liter and the Decathlon bag blew the Patagonia bag out of the water. Color me shocked. I normally love Patagonia gear but found their bag lacking in all the great details and features that the Forclaz had. Granted, it was a bit heavier, but not by much. Thanks for the fun test...now I have to check out that jacket!
@2:13 OMG❤my younger dirty kid train-hopping self is crying right now. I would have KILLED for this feature when I was a young traveler!! Every time I take off my huge down parka, I would have to adjust my Alice pack topstraps. Ugh. I absolutely LOVE this new backpack thank you for showing me this company. I had no idea!❤
The Naturehike CloudUP and 3F UL Gear tents are way better than the Trailmade. Far lighter and unlike REI they have a lifetime warranty and the manufacturer will sell you parts.
People, it's not only wool, but it's merino wool. Merino and alpaca wool are temperature regulating, breathable, very soft, quick drying and most importantly odour-inhibiting textile. I have those merino shirts from Decathlon as well, also many other merino clothes from brands like Odlo, Löffler, Devold, Vaude and the ones from Decathlon work just as great as these expensive brands. I got mine for 20€ from discount, and I'm very with them. It is true though, European sizes aren't as large as US sizes.
I’m not a hiker, but I loved watching your video and enthusiasm! Decathlon is huge in Europe. Their slogan is “go try!” and that’s exactly what their stuff generally is meant for. I suspect their people know full well what good equipment is, and product development starts at a price point. For example, the goal for that backpack was the best they could get to you for 100 dollars/euro’s and that meant that including an extra waterbottleholder and pocket would increase the price to like 105/110 and they prioritized comfort. I do horseriding and mountainbiking and I’ve noticed this in more products. Some are amazing for the price, and at times I’m like, yeah I would have liked to pay an extra 10 for xyz. Sometimes they come up with great innovative and nifty features in the mid-high pricerange, and sometimes I think a mid price product really is a miss. I’ve noticed too that fitted pants are for a very specific body type, but I’ve yet to come across a brand that communicates if something’s for a more straight or curvy type. All the low pricerange stuff generally IS the best cheap option for starting out, but if you like the sport you’ll soon outgrow it.
Please test more Decathlon stuff! Here comes a free breakdown: They actually have a few price tiers of equipment! The 100 lineup is the budget, the 500 is mid field, the 900 is the premium, more expensive. For instance: the down jackets: the 100 is like 75 dollars, good for 42F, the 500 is around 120, and is good for 32F, and their 900 is super thick, good for 5F, for around 150 USD. (All static temps ratings, when moving they are quite lower) Likewise, they have a 500 syntetic sleeping bag, then a down sleeping bag, the forclaz 900 Ul, for around 130 USD, which is good for 32F (comfort), and weighs in at just under 2 pounds. Also, there are names of tiers. Nabaiji/quechua are the cheapest, Forclaz is the High end, and Simond is the extreme, alpinist stuff. For instance, the sleeping bad I cited above is the forclaz 900 UL, but there is a Simond version for 200Usd, which is good for 15F(comfort) and weighs in at 1,5 pounds. They also sell amazingly cheap merino wool shirts, gloves, hats. There is also a stove that is very "inspired " in the soto windmaster. Ultralight trekking pole tents - the 2 person costs 230 USD and weighs 2.8 pounds. They recently launched a 5.6 R value inflatable sleeping pad, whose cover doubles as a pump sack, just like the sea to summit, for 130 USD And finally, I'm Brazilian. Around here, they are pretty much the only option, we don't see the likes of Nemo, REI, sea to summit, let alone cottage brands around here. That's why Decathlon is so important, and if you keep reviewing their stuff, you can reach a broader audience!
Love the idea of this budget gear series, especially with the end goal of coming up with the ultimate budget kit! If you have room for another video in this budget gear series, please take a look at Paria Outdoor Products.
Just found your videos and you guys are awesome to watch. I definitely noticed the audio issues, but there's always areas for improvement. Do you think your lav mic is just getting eaten alive by the wind? Keep up the fun content. Unbiased adventures and just going outside is what we're all here for!
I personally go backpacking to get away from luxery and closer to nature. Yes I might be a bit wet and a bit cold, but that just makes the fire at the end of the day feel better. I generally go for the cheapest gear. If something breaks (which do happen) I get to improvise a solution with the stuff I have around me. I oddly enough find joy in that
I have that burgundy Forclaz puffy, too. I think it looks really nice and fitted, but I can also wear layers under it. It’s been on many backpacking trips so far.
Omg, as a beginner hiker in Europe I appreciate this video SO MUCH. Sad they don't sell Decathlon tents in US, there's a white "ultralight" one that I'm really interested in and can't make my mind about Also, not a gear brand, but 4F (Poland, selling in many EU countries) does very good outdoor clothing on a cheaper side. P.S.: Decathlon clothing fits me extremely weirdly too, despite being in the middle of the size range. It's like I'm right size, but wrong shape xD
What an interesting experiment to go backpacking with only budget gear from Decathlon! It's great to see which items were hits and which were misses. Your honest reviews and thorough testing provide valuable insights for anyone looking to gear up without breaking the bank. Thanks for sharing your adventure and the detailed feedback on each piece of equipment! Cheers, Simon - Tales From Abroad
So interesting to watch you test this iconic French brand. Their synthetic tshirts are great as well and so cheap. In Europe you can find loads of their stuff second-hand so that's even more budget friendly (and a bit more eco-friendly). I love this budget series and how thourough you are !! Cheers xxx
As an European who loves stuff from Decathlon, I view their stuff as the gear you get when you are getting into a hobby, want stuff that works well and will last while still spending a fraction of the price of the super high tier gear
theres a german dude that is biking around the world for 3 years now and he's always been using a decathlon tent. it works if you take care
@@ruben247 honestly I spent a lot on high tier gear and I had better duration with some of Decathlon products, it's not only to get into a hobby, it's being smarter sometimes
As Decathlon fan from EU, here are some things to know:
- all their pants and shorts models are REALLY tight in ties
- sleeping bags are budget for car camping, not for hiking. To bulky and heavy for hikers
- cookware is also targeted to car campers
- sleeping mats are great. Check out foam and inflatable ones, the one you got is really bad
- everything merino is high quality and affordable
- shoes are really good and reliable you spend Quechua, Forclaz for hiking and Kipsta for trail running
To save weight and money you can replace:
- sandals with Nabaiji slab 100 a 6 euro slippers
- take regular flece MH100 10 Euros
- forclaz trekking 100 down jacket for half of price
And BEST pillow in the WORLD MT500 inflatable pillow. 10/10 would recommend while one in your video is 4/10. I have them booth
Yes yes yes to the pillow. I tried pricier brands and I still go for the MT500.
To the clothing: my body is just not right for their fit (or the other way around).
French brands are known for their small sizing (don't get me started with italian and spanish sizing).
I am pretty straight forward a Medium in other European sizes, but a XL with Decathlon might be still too small for me as they are sized for small framed, short people.
Usually pants are too short and tighs too tight. On the upper parts the ribcage is just too narrow.
I don't like it but that's just the way it is.
I love the pillow.
I sleep with it every night at home and hug it.
What areeeeeeeeeeee you on about, decathlons hiking gear is not aimed at car campers hahahaha
Kipsta is ball sports (specifically football). Kalenji/Kiprun is their trail running brand.
Their merino socks are horrible and will stretch almost immediately.
They have a hiking and a trekking section. The trekking section has low weight good sleeping bags which are not bad. Their brand is Forclaz. (quechua is the hiking brand). Also Simond (mountain climbing) is a bought brand with a reputable history and it is very great quality.
The rest I agree with.
Source: I used to work for Decathlon.
Ha, now you know how we europeans feel whenever youtubers don't put metric conversions on their videos! I do like Decathlon, it's really good if you are just starting out with outdoors activities and need some affordable gear. I also often wear the clothes for work (I work outside) as they are cheap and hard wearing!
Agreed!
Mexico and Canada also use mostly Metric so US is the only one in North America using it.... I'm really happy not to have to do conversion today :) 😄🤣
@@greensheep6718 yeah, and actually here in the UK we don't use all metric - we use miles and mph, and most people can use feet and metres interchangeably. Fahrenheit means absolutely nothing to me though, I simply cannot understand it!!
The whole world is using the metric system. Myanmar, Liberia & the USA are the only 3 countrys which still stick to outdated messurementsystems.
Iv had the work pants for years and not blown a knee out yet I just can’t see them wearing out
That's a shame that Decathlon doesn't carry tents on your side of the pond. Their tents are seriously awesome! High quality and incredibly well designed.
Absolutely agree on your opinion of the fleece and puffy. I have both and love them to bits.
I also love my decathalon fleece and puffy!
I keep seeing that white trekking pole tent in UA-cam videos from folks outside of the US and I’m so jealous. It looks good and affordable!
Devastated that their Emeryville, CA and San Francisco, CA stores closed. Love their gear.
They sell some models in Canada. I keep recommending the 50$CAD two person tent as it is unbeatable as price. But for others tents, so far I dont feel they have great products for backpacking. It seems they have newer models in Europe, hopefully here soon, that are very lightweight for a great price.
@@nicolaslemay that's fair, I don't have the experience with most their tents.
I own the Forclaz MT900 2 person and it absolutely rocks. It's way pricier than the one you have - I think it can only be considered "budget" if you compare it with ultralight tents as it kind of sits in that market. It has similar materials and construction as many other UL tents, it's a little bit heavier than comparable UL tents but not by much - and it's a LOT cheaper. UL is pricey.
Decathlon is the IKEA of the tourism world 🦥
absolutely agree and that's the exact words when I try to explain how Decathlon is! if I'm into a new sport / hobby, Decathlon's product line makes it very easy to get into that sport / hobby. product codes and their prices arranged as XX100 cheap - lower quality, XX500 medium price - quality, XX900 expensive - higher quality. I go with 100 or 500 line if I am new into the sport / hobby. after identifying how deep I would like to go and find out which features I need, I go with 900 or maybe another brand with higher or specific features.
Ironic statement; Decathlon went broke in Sweden.
No it isn't, Ikea is known for having cheap furniture at mediocre quality, Decathlon has cheap and good quality gear
@@AdAstraLabs Not true, IKEAs furniture is quite good, even cheap things. I've used many of their stuff and never had any complaints.
@@ms-ht1cj Nwm skąd pan(i) kupi meble ale jakość z Ikea w Polsce nie jest aż tak dobry
Miranda doing mental math for the conversion of water, while holding the nalgene with both metric and imperial is an amazing representation of post-hiking brain.
Please never change.
shopping at decathlon is a bit of an art; i have one near me in canada and eventually you start to learn what's likely to be good and what's not. i'll buy the more expensive "500" gear for things that really matter, like rain coats (i want those pit zips...) but you can get by with the cheaper versions of a lot of items. some of the in-store brands (forclaz, quechua, etc.) are also better than others at specific things. it's one of those stores that it really helps to go in person, so it's a shame there aren't more across america
also, their women's clothes fitting weird is not just a you problem! i'm a size small and i've had to return or exchange things numerous times because their clothing is just kind of inconsistent, not sure why
Especially the pants are weird fits
Qualities control at production level and differents workshop making the same products
I don’t know if anyone else agrees with me but Miranda and Rainer make the best hiking/camping partners..I just wish I could be there having fun with them ❤❤
This❤
they do look like they are having a blast and i too would like to join their good time. Mostly for Tucker :D
@@calicofloof lmao 🤣 I know! Tucker is so adorable 🥰
Maranda, I would like to challenge you to do some serious hiking !!!
Let's say a short one like the PCT from Bridge of the gods to the terminus at WA / Canada border !!!!! The time is perfect for it. Vlog it n share. 🎉
20:10 not gonna lie, I really liked that for once you had to be one doing the conversions 😅
I'm from France, Decathlon makes solid great products for budget friendly. Their UL gears are great too.
I’m from Australia and when I was bikepacking in France I bought a lot of gear from decathlon a lot of which they don’t sell here , it’s been six years and I still use the stuff ( tent , sleep pad , blow up esky , cups & plates , gas burner and more .
Everytime Miranda says Fanny pack, the Aussie in me giggles.
We call them Bumbags.
@@rastan49 we do in the UK as well
Fanny means something completely different in the UK.
@@tnetroP 😂
@@tnetroP and in Australia hence the giggles 😂
I LOVE these "budget-minded" videos. It's great for people graduating from "I yeeted my gear from my car into my campsite" into "I am willing to walk a little for a campsite."
Me!! this is meee! i want to graduate to walking a lil for my campsite!!
I'am french and i was shocked by the price of decathlon gears. They are at least 10 dollars cheaper in my country. The exact headlamp is 15 dollars here, and for 20 dollars you have a really better one, only 45g. For the sleeping pad, for the same price, you can afford the upper model which is way more confortable and thicker. So i agree, for the price Miranda paid, it's not worth. It goes the same way for european, US gears are a lot more expensive for us.
I'm italian and i was thinking the same
Isnt it just because euro is worth a bit more, than a dollar? Or is it cheaper in dollars too?
Ok, googled it and it is really 15€ so its actually just 5$ more
Guys same with Apple product cheaper in the Us than europe
I'm in the Netherlands and I use a lot of Decathlon stuff for hiking! I used to have a backpack of theirs, and the only reason I got a different one is because I didn't like the lack of exterior packing space. I like to give everything its own place, and this bag was more of the 'keep it all in the main space in the bag' variety. But it's super comfortable, and was the ONLY small volume 'woman's' bag I could find, which I need, because I'm short, and most unisex bags don't fit my body right. And I simply do not need 60 liters 🤷 I haven't tried any of their sleeping mats, sleeping bags, and tents, because they don't really have lightweight stuff that's also good for lower temperatures. Currently, I think I have a headlight, inflatable pillow (with padded cover), longsleeve, tanktop, t-shirt, shorts, some cooking stuff, socks, underwear, fleece cardigan/jacket, rain gear, beanie, thin gloves and waterproof gloves, and probably some small stuff I'm forgetting about, in my gear rotation. I also used to use their electrolyte tablets, but they don't have the ones I used to get anymore ☹️ and the backpack was really good quality, so I would recommend it, but it wasn't exactly what I personally was looking for so I got a different one.
The best part of your film is at 09:06 where your cat is waiting patiently for you to finish emptying the cardboard box 😂 because I’m fairly sure they will claim it 😂
Tucker all cozy in his sleeping bag in the morning 🥹🥹🥹
I don’t need a new backpack. I don’t need a new backpack.
I also love Tucker appearances. ❤
Yeaaaaahhhh, you doooooooooo......... 😂
Why don't you do video with worst reviewed backpacking gear from REI? That would be so funny! 🤣
I remember years ago Backpacker Magazine did a trip using gear they got from Wal-Mart. It did pretty well, except their tent leaked pretty bad. I'd like to see Miranda do an updated version.
Us on the East Coast watching Maranda wearing a jacket comfortably while it's 100° outside our homes 👀 😂
Same, Texas summer started early this year! 😥
It was 100 inside my kitchen before I put the AC unit in. I love the 2nd floor of cape houses so much.
I lived in North Carolina for 4 years, and Phoenix for 4 years, both the hottest places ive lived, and I'm always surprised at how some people can wear hoodies and sweaters all year long!
@@evercuriousmichelle exactly, we started back in May 😭
@@Willard_guy our central air is barely making a dent. It's still 80° inside the house
I’m always unpacking and repacking my Atlas Adventure to try and shave some weight off but still have everything I need/want!! In fact my gear does that more than actual camping. So when I saw yours weighing in at 31 lbs. I started the process all over again because my kit tips the scales at 21 lbs. My goal has always been 18 lbs. Mainly because I’m a senior, weight only 135 lbs.due to recovery from cancer and all the other issues that come along with aging. You my friend give me motivation and strength to keep plugging away!!!!! For that I’m forever grateful!!!!!
Folks, if you like the down jacket, they're on sale right now for $40-60.
Also, I've found their backpack at my local Sierra several times.
Only small size
There are more gears Decathlon sell in other countries than in the US. We used to have an actual store of Decathlon here in the bay area a few years back (pre Covid) and they used to carry way more stuff (including backpacking tents). Now they have shifted their focus in the US and only commit to selling hike/camp and bicycle gears. I have their sleep bag liner, hiking boots, trail runners, and my boyfriend has one of their packs, we also have an inflatable kayak from them, and all of these have been working really well. Most of their gears are easily 30% - 50% cheaper than other brands offered in the US, but be sure to check out more reviews on them before you buy (reviews can be hard to find, a lot of those reviews are prob coming from people in Asia or Europe)
It’s sad to see how much less stuff they sell. I used to be able to order just about anything not long ago. I actually emailed them and they said that each “Country” picks which gear they want to focus on. That’s why you can’t not climbing gear anymore for example.
Shout out to Rainer for the best Gollum impression I’ve ever seen/heard
Careful, if you get Rainer and Eric Hansen together it’s just minutes on end of quoting LotR and doing Gollum impressions
@@MirandaGoesOutsideI see nothing wrong with that idea!!!
❤❤I love Decathlon products btw that’s my jacket! It may go to for winter time and it’s so light and keeps me warm. I love that Tucker and her cat made an appearance - puppy and cat 🐈⬛ cuteness.
I love Decathlon. They rock! Last time I was backpacking in Europe, I was flying out of Madrid and decided that I needed a duffle to check my pack home in. Off to Decthlon I went. €10 later I had one that did the trick and still looks great for more adventures to come.
Woo, very timely! I was looking to buy before 4th of July sales are over.
Naturehike makes great budget tents! I have the cloudup 2 which I love. I would call it more like a 1.5 though.
Agreed! I have a mongar 2 and I love it (although I think I'll need to reseal the seams soon)
Woohoo! Love the budget gear videos
Me too!! Some budget gear is really impressive 💰
Decathlon's Forclaz Trek (now called MT apparently) packs are easily THE budget pack pick for me. There are things about it that I like more than my Granite Gear pack (easy adjustments, TILTED WATER BOTTLE POCKET!, great access, and very durable). I've been more skeptical about some of the other things I've seen from them, but I bought a pack for my friend as a gift, and it is so impressive.
Waterproof trail hikers are fantastic for example, when you need to wear micro spikes or snowshoes for your trail or on shoulder seasons when it’s muddy, and your feet are in the wet a lot.
I love this! Now, I hope this comment reaches the team. I don't know if this is available in your country but I'm from the Philippines and all of my gears are either Dacathlon or Naturehike(mostly). Maybe you can consider reviewing Naturehike products next time. 😁
I used a Decathlon pillow (£12) on my AT hike. It is the best pillow I’ve found in 4yrs of looking….add in the removable fabric cover that can be cleaned…….its the best out there
I have other Decathlon gear. It is very keenly priced gear.
“Literally could not have been more wrong.” 😂 That cracked me up. Sometimes the Earth surprises us. ❤
Great video. Once again making backpacking accessible to everyone AND challenging old pros. The research on the prices and the discussion on cost versus value was great. Team MGO is awesome!
I have been waiting for an episode like this! Decathlon is a great option, especially if you are just getting into a sport.
That campsite looks AMAZING!!! What a gorgeous view!
Excellent video! I love all of them, you and Rainier are the best. I discovered you right after I retired during covid isolation and you make me want to backpack. I'm in good shape for my age and I'm active and you make me want to get in even better shape and take up backpacking. Not many people inspire me to get into better shape so pat yourself on the back. Thank you for looking at budget gear, it will make it easier for people on a tight budget to enjoy the outdoors, including me. Keep doing what you do, you show the world how much fun can be had out there.
I'm so hyped for this budget series
LOVE and NEED this series! Thank you so much from someone who wants to get into backpacking but is scared of the monetary investment.
I love the focus on more budget and entry level options! When I don't backpack enough to justify the super expensive lightweight gear, or it isn't available in my country, this is so much more relatable than a lot of the UL gear focused US creators. Love this content, you, and your team, keep making the diverse content you're so great at!
Just what I needed today.. Thank you Miranda and team!
Miranda, I wanted to thank you for introducing me to LMNT. I have Hashimoto's, and LMNT has been a game-changer in keeping me hydrated. My skin has never looked better, and my migraines are less frequent. It makes me smile every time I see them sponsor your videos. :)
Thanks so much for the beginning of a budget series ❤
Can I suggest also including budget backpacking food??
The branded dehydrated meals we usually see you using are too expensive for some of us, so homemade or alternative options would be awesome to explore
Extra points to Rainer for the LOTR reference. You made my morning!
I really enjoy seeing all of the budget gear videos from outdoor/backpacking channels! One question: What do you do with this stuff once you’ve made the video? Do you sell it? Give it away? Keep it for another time?
Also curious about this!
awesome!! Decathlon is THE biggest outdoors gear shop here in Brazil, and it´s great to see a famous outdoorsy youtuber talking about some of their gear since most of the US stuff is unavailable or way too expensive for us here
I have that exact same sleeping bag and it has kept me super warm at 0ºC with just a thin foam pad underneath
That campsite was gorgeous. Loved the gear review. I learned about Decathlon when I visited Morocco and Spain last year. I was impressed with their clothing. A much needed review from you about their gear. Cheers!
I have a 13 year old decathlon 2 season sleeping bag that cost me £30 and I love it, it’s super comfortable and packs really small,I don’t think they make it anymore though, but it’s definitely stood the test of time and so many expeditions!
As a Jindo owner myself, I watch for the few fleeting glimpses of the trail dog. He looks just like my good boy Sonny. And, oh yeah, the tremendous personality of the host adds a lot :)
😊 I’m very happy (and flattered) to be second to Tucker. He’s the goodest boy!!!
Rainer’s comments off camera may be my favorite part 😂
Thank you Miranda for this video. I’ve been wanting to collect affordable backpacking gear and hopes to eventually take on a longer trip. But can’t invest in expensive lightweight gear right now. I’m looking forward to that video with all of your recommendations from all the different companies including Walmart! That will be so helpful.
Hello from the Land Down Under! I'm so glad you have gone to producing your episodes weekly. I do my cardio in the gym on Tuesday mornings and the elliptical machine was so boring until I now have your show to watch each week. It makes the time go by so fast. Love how you keep it real. Also, love the budget gear videos. Keep them coming.
I've had similar experiences with most of what you're testing here, minus the sleeping pad, which I was warned away from up front by a friend who did the experiment for me. Started back to backpacking a couple years ago after quite a few years off, needed all new gear, didn't want to shell out for premium brands where I could avoid it. From what I bought at the time, I'm still using the wool shirts, shoes, MT100 men's jacket when I need a hooded one (that same friend gave me a non-hooded, button version of the Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer which is a great and much lighter "1.5 season" option), and pillow. I still have the men's version of that MT100 50L pack, and the 23F version of the sleeping bag you used. I got a lot of use out of both of them over the fairly short time I've had them, but I did finally have to go with lighter options. I'm not an ultralight purist by any means, but I'm in my 50s and lightening the load is a health issue: dodgy knees, sciatica, back issues, etc. The men's version of that pack is 3.5lbs, and the sleeping bag is 4.6 lbs. Replacing them with lightweight options -- at significant expense, it's worth noting -- took more than 5lbs off before I even started looking at packing less clothing, packing food based on need rather than fear, etc. For a 2-day trip I think they're both probably fine, but if you're carrying more than a couple days of food plus a bear can, they're really not usable unless a 45-lb carry before water weight is feasible for you.
Looking forward to the rest of the budget gear series!!
Looking forward to more budget videos. Would like to see budget ultralight gear and trekking pole tents.
the sleeping pad can be fine-tuned to softness. it has two valves for that reason.
How am I just now finding your channel? Delightfully playful/goofy and not too serious. Refreshing!
Thanks for the Decathlon gear demo! I’m a big fan of there’s and have been getting gear from backpacks to climbing gear to bikes for years now. Totally off topic- have you ener done a video of how to do dishes while on the trail and properly dispose of the grey water? Keep up the great content!
Really fun video to watch. Hopefully you will include naturehike in one of your upcoming budget gear videos.
A really useful video, thanks.
I like Decathlon and have a lot of their stuff and am very happy with almost all of it.
A couple of tips for Decathlon gear.
Sizes. Decathlon are Euro sizes, which are 1 to 1 1/2 sizes smaller than US sizes. For example, I am US L/XL, I am EU size 2XL/3XL, and if anyone shops on Alibaba, I am Chinese 5XL (Asian sizes have narrower hips and shoulders).
Grades: Decathlon usually do 2 or more grades of the same gear. The bigger the number the higher the grade. As a rule the 100 grade (eg MT100), is the base model. The 900 grade is the top grade. There are also other grades, depending on the gear, you might see 200, 300, 500. in gear names This is reflected in the price. Sometimes the grade is based on durability, other times the weather performance.
Just my 2c.
I love this series!! This type of content is what I look for everytime I'm researching new outdoor gears!
Weird sleeping mat. Decathlon has better inflatable ones with higher R values.
Decathlon have MT500 & MT900 products that are usually higher quality and lighter/smaller. They also do down sleeping bags. I think some of those would have worked better for you. Especially, regarding space.
Maybe she was trying to save money?
you neeeeeeeed to review Stoic!!! some of my favorite budget gear that I took a chance on and has gotten us outside. my husband and I love it!!
I am forever grateful for the friends and near-strangers from Meet Up groups who lent me backpacking gear while I was building up my own collection over a few years. I tell myself that the reason I now have so much gear now is not that I am a gear junkie... lol... rather (also) that it allows me to bring others on trips with me who don't have or don't want to invest in a full kit of backpacking gear!!! Borrowing from friends also lets you figure out what you maybe like or don't like in gear. I'd love to see a video on types of gear in a kit where it's like, Budget or Nah. There are some items that are 100% not worth spending a lot of money on these days thanks to what's available (lightweight cook kit, water filter, pillow...) but there are others where it can absolutely be worth it to spent some extra money for value, durability, comfort.... And some pieces can be wobblers, you can cheap out and be fine but you can also spend a ton of money (apparently, down jackets.) Great video!!!
I just came back from my first hiking trip in the north of Sweden and having a large Decathlon around the corner I had quite some gear from them, although I did mix & match with some more high end gear.
I did make some different choices although I think that has to do with regional availability as well. I choose the MT900 0 °C down sleeping bag and the MT900 air sleeping mattras (R5.1) and was fortunate I could borrow the MT900 1P trekking tent they offer in Europe. I was happy with the sleeping bag and sleeping mat! They were less in weight and volume compared to the ones you choose and because I had an air mattras there was a bit more thickness and comfort there. For me they were warm enough even though the tempratures dropped down to -1 celcius one night.
The tent I was not so happy with, Although it was just 1.3kg and I could sit up inside, but it was hard to move around, the sleeping mat was a snug fit in the available space and I had to leave most of my gear in the vestibule. For my next trip I will definitely consider purchasing a different tent so I was really happy I could borrow the tent I would otherwise have purchased.
I've been using their wool shirts for day hikes for years now so of course a couple of them came with me on my hike and the down jacket was part of my gear as well. I didn't bring a fleece on my trip, I have been using a wool sweater from decathlon I've been using for some time now instead and that was just perfect.
thank you once again for keeping me company with my insomnia, lol, right on time as always
Welcome to the metric side! 🌈 We have cookies 🍪😍
Pretty sure some of you have biscuits lol ❤
@@Mwilke3789we have both cookies and biscuits are very different 😂
That was super rad to see the budget options applied and tried on trail. Just love your videos!!
20:00 Oh Rainer, you have no idea how right you are!!! 😈😂😂😂
genius video and idea, finally someone is testing brands that hordes of average campers are going to be using, thank you!
How did you get so lucky with a partner like Rainer!
"Yeeeeeeaahh" "No, no none of that"
Impressive gollum reenactment
Absolutely love you Miranda and your random blurts 😂
One of my favourite things from Decathlon is a lightweight toiletries bag. It has several small compartments to organise your stuff and has a loop so you can hang it up somewher, as you might want to do in many bathrooms at campsites.
Decathlon has really good stuff (sleeping pad and bag). The ones you bought were bottom shelf stuff. And the decathlon mt 500 tent is just amazing.
Ooh excited for this series! It's going to be so useful for so many!
Naturehike, Decathlon, Tetin Sports, 3F UL Gear, Paria Outdoor Products, Featherstone
how can you not love Mirandas enthusiasm?
For a recent three-week trip to Europe, I wanted to try out a couple of 40-something liter packs. I compared the Patagonia 45-liter MLC to the Decathlon Forclaz 40-liter and the Decathlon bag blew the Patagonia bag out of the water. Color me shocked. I normally love Patagonia gear but found their bag lacking in all the great details and features that the Forclaz had. Granted, it was a bit heavier, but not by much.
Thanks for the fun test...now I have to check out that jacket!
👍👍👍
Decathlon in Basel, Switzerland, is my Go-To Outdoor Store. Also, my Wallet does not cry when I sneak in through their front entrance.
Ooooh their travel towels are brilliant too
Loved this, and looking forward to the upcoming budget videos!
In reference to the down jacket, "Lofty Claim" very punny Amanda!😂
Just came here to make sure this was noted as it was not celebrated in the video for some reason?!? Thank you! 😂
Can't wait to see the other budget videos ✌️❤️
@2:13 OMG❤my younger dirty kid train-hopping self is crying right now. I would have KILLED for this feature when I was a young traveler!!
Every time I take off my huge down parka, I would have to adjust my Alice pack topstraps. Ugh.
I absolutely LOVE this new backpack thank you for showing me this company.
I had no idea!❤
The Naturehike CloudUP and 3F UL Gear tents are way better than the Trailmade. Far lighter and unlike REI they have a lifetime warranty and the manufacturer will sell you parts.
Sold!!!!
As an aspiring beginner backpacker (I’ve bought a tent and plan to use my existing bag), I love the idea of this series of videos
People, it's not only wool, but it's merino wool. Merino and alpaca wool are temperature regulating, breathable, very soft, quick drying and most importantly odour-inhibiting textile.
I have those merino shirts from Decathlon as well, also many other merino clothes from brands like Odlo, Löffler, Devold, Vaude and the ones from Decathlon work just as great as these expensive brands. I got mine for 20€ from discount, and I'm very with them. It is true though, European sizes aren't as large as US sizes.
I’m not a hiker, but I loved watching your video and enthusiasm! Decathlon is huge in Europe. Their slogan is “go try!” and that’s exactly what their stuff generally is meant for. I suspect their people know full well what good equipment is, and product development starts at a price point. For example, the goal for that backpack was the best they could get to you for 100 dollars/euro’s and that meant that including an extra waterbottleholder and pocket would increase the price to like 105/110 and they prioritized comfort. I do horseriding and mountainbiking and I’ve noticed this in more products. Some are amazing for the price, and at times I’m like, yeah I would have liked to pay an extra 10 for xyz. Sometimes they come up with great innovative and nifty features in the mid-high pricerange, and sometimes I think a mid price product really is a miss. I’ve noticed too that fitted pants are for a very specific body type, but I’ve yet to come across a brand that communicates if something’s for a more straight or curvy type. All the low pricerange stuff generally IS the best cheap option for starting out, but if you like the sport you’ll soon outgrow it.
Please test more Decathlon stuff! Here comes a free breakdown:
They actually have a few price tiers of equipment!
The 100 lineup is the budget, the 500 is mid field, the 900 is the premium, more expensive. For instance: the down jackets: the 100 is like 75 dollars, good for 42F, the 500 is around 120, and is good for 32F, and their 900 is super thick, good for 5F, for around 150 USD. (All static temps ratings, when moving they are quite lower)
Likewise, they have a 500 syntetic sleeping bag, then a down sleeping bag, the forclaz 900 Ul, for around 130 USD, which is good for 32F (comfort), and weighs in at just under 2 pounds.
Also, there are names of tiers. Nabaiji/quechua are the cheapest, Forclaz is the High end, and Simond is the extreme, alpinist stuff. For instance, the sleeping bad I cited above is the forclaz 900 UL, but there is a Simond version for 200Usd, which is good for 15F(comfort) and weighs in at 1,5 pounds.
They also sell amazingly cheap merino wool shirts, gloves, hats.
There is also a stove that is very "inspired " in the soto windmaster.
Ultralight trekking pole tents - the 2 person costs 230 USD and weighs 2.8 pounds.
They recently launched a 5.6 R value inflatable sleeping pad, whose cover doubles as a pump sack, just like the sea to summit, for 130 USD
And finally, I'm Brazilian. Around here, they are pretty much the only option, we don't see the likes of Nemo, REI, sea to summit, let alone cottage brands around here. That's why Decathlon is so important, and if you keep reviewing their stuff, you can reach a broader audience!
Love the idea of this budget gear series, especially with the end goal of coming up with the ultimate budget kit! If you have room for another video in this budget gear series, please take a look at Paria Outdoor Products.
Just found your videos and you guys are awesome to watch. I definitely noticed the audio issues, but there's always areas for improvement. Do you think your lav mic is just getting eaten alive by the wind?
Keep up the fun content. Unbiased adventures and just going outside is what we're all here for!
Thanks for this one. We need more videos like this. There are far too many about paying 700 bucks for a tent to shave 8 ounces off your pack weight.
I personally go backpacking to get away from luxery and closer to nature. Yes I might be a bit wet and a bit cold, but that just makes the fire at the end of the day feel better. I generally go for the cheapest gear. If something breaks (which do happen) I get to improvise a solution with the stuff I have around me. I oddly enough find joy in that
I have that burgundy Forclaz puffy, too. I think it looks really nice and fitted, but I can also wear layers under it. It’s been on many backpacking trips so far.
Oh my gosh, seeing clips from The Room made me so happy. 😂
Merino shirts, down jackets and underwear are really tough to beat. Pretty good relatively cheap camp meals also.
13:56 Standing ovation for the Gollum impression. 😮
Rainer said to me later, and I quote, “that wasn’t even my BEST gollum impression”
Omg, as a beginner hiker in Europe I appreciate this video SO MUCH. Sad they don't sell Decathlon tents in US, there's a white "ultralight" one that I'm really interested in and can't make my mind about
Also, not a gear brand, but 4F (Poland, selling in many EU countries) does very good outdoor clothing on a cheaper side.
P.S.: Decathlon clothing fits me extremely weirdly too, despite being in the middle of the size range. It's like I'm right size, but wrong shape xD
What an interesting experiment to go backpacking with only budget gear from Decathlon! It's great to see which items were hits and which were misses. Your honest reviews and thorough testing provide valuable insights for anyone looking to gear up without breaking the bank. Thanks for sharing your adventure and the detailed feedback on each piece of equipment!
Cheers,
Simon - Tales From Abroad
So interesting to watch you test this iconic French brand. Their synthetic tshirts are great as well and so cheap. In Europe you can find loads of their stuff second-hand so that's even more budget friendly (and a bit more eco-friendly).
I love this budget series and how thourough you are !!
Cheers xxx
One of the highlights to a Sunday 😂
❤ You, Rainer, & the aBaby🐶
199$ for an “affordable” tent is crazy! To bad Decathlon doesn’t sell tents in the US as they have some great ones for as low as 39:90£