Backpack Shakedown: The Secret to a Lighter Backpack Revealed
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- Опубліковано 5 вер 2017
- Get ready to pack smarter and hike lighter with this backpack shakedown video! Whether you're planning a thru-hike or just a weekend trip, this video will help you lighten your load and enjoy the journey.
I was aiming to take some weight out of my backpack, so I took a field trip to Mountain Crossings at Neels Gap on the Appalachian Trail for a backpack shakedown.
See what it's like to have an expert review your AT gear snd learn the secret to a lighter backpack that make your next adventure even more enjoyable!
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For anyone that watches and reads the comments: A rain kilt can be made for free if you save your old gear and/or cut useful things off before tossing. I used a trash-bag with a drawstring closure and cut the bottom open. That alone would work, but I also had some shockcord and a barrel lock, so I made mine a little more durable and easier to use.
Bring the cat. It will help with mice in the shelters. Joby makes a micro tripod that stays on the camera and folds up flat. $20 on the zon. A third of an ounce. You have a positive attitude and that's the most important thing to carry along.
keep a mirror for tick checks...unless you have a very close friend coming with you:)
Just wanted to comment on your issue with poison ivy. I got poison ivy on my AT hike. Without proper treatment on trail I ended up with a hospital ER visit. Even with two steroid packs I believe the poison ivy progressed to cellulitis. This put me in the hospital on antibiotics for 3 days. The story still did not stop there. I eventually ended up with MRSA and another hospital visit. I did complete my thruhike. The one piece of advice I could give you is if you get any type of illness or injury while on the trail seek the required amount of medical assistance and stay off trail long enough until it is totally under control. Poison ivy is very prevalent on the trail. Take every precaution to avoid it. Good Luck.
Good choice to keep the compass.
Love your videos and your story. Best wishes on your trek!
Thanks for taking us through this. Every little bit helps!
Great video Joy.
You've really got me thinking of doing the AT next year....
Super smart way to prepare your pack..Nice job J.R.
I'm surprised he didn't suggest using a quilt in stead of a sleeping bag, it saves alot of weight, if you have a good sleeping pad . I am so glad you showed the gogirl, worth their weight in gold lol...
Thanks! your video was helpful and pleasant to watch. Good luck on your journey!
Good job on the gear list. The very best of luck. Good hiking
wow, great job getting yourself organized and geared up!! I'm hitting the AT mid March and I enjoyed this helpful video. Best wishes for a safe and wonder filled hike!
awesome video - loved the Outfitters as well
Congrats on the upcoming hike! I enjoyed the video..Springer will be here before you know it! All the best on the trail :)
Just found you and am looking forward to checking out more of your videos! This was a great idea to do! Id love to thru hike the AT, just not sure I can with finances and such right now. But one day I will and I will be super prepared due to watching great videos like this. Thanks again for sharing and Good luck on the trail!
Just subscribed good luck with the hike. Look forward to seeing your progress. Take care cheers Karl
Nice work!
Absolutely have a compass.I was shocked that he took it out.I got cold shivers at 38 degrees once so I do like the SOL Escape bivvy.I added a zipper to mine for ease of use.Note,my Silva compass has a small mirror I use for tick checks etc.Enjoyed your video!
Enjoyed the video. My brother-in-law and I will be leaving mid-March to April. We've been preparing for several months. Maybe we'll see you on the trail. I will keep watching. Thank you for sharing!
Joyful! I just found your channel! Congratulations on your decision to thru hike! It feels like yesterday we enjoyed having you in our Backpacking 101 overnight with the GATC! I look forward to watching your channel and I wish you all the best of luck now as you approach your trip!
Thanks, Jeff, I owe you lots of gratitude! You guys really made me believe I could do it! See you on the trail :)
I would strongly look at the Osprey Exos packs, same great suspension.
Really good job on your video. One thing I really appreciate is when vloggers connect to their audience by looking at the camera lens instead of talking to the image of themselves. Looking forward to your thru hike!
I just bought the Crown 2 60 at Granate Gears factory in twin Harbors MN, had the show room lady size me up, fits great
Start with stuff you are comfortable with. You can always change out stuff or ditch something. Don't be afraid to modify your gear: cut off excess strap length or straps you are not using, ditch the top lid (pack brain) if you decide that you can, use as few stuff sacks as possible, use light water bottles as they can save you several ounces. Just modifying stuff in this way can reduce pack weight a surprising amount. 15 to 20 pounds is not too bad, especially early on. Only you can decide what you can give up and be happy without. Most importantly, the hike is about you and not your gear. Have fun planning your hike.
Really informative (and clever), the way you set up this video by showing the contents of your pack first and the shakedown second. Seems like you've already made a lot of good decisions about your gear. (But if you're planning on making videos on the trail, keep the tripod!) Really enjoyed the video ...
Great video!
I do quite a bit of light weight weekend camping and I have a general illumination light for my tent. It usually only gets used when I am changing clothes and getting out for a bathroom break (it is easier to find your tent when it is glowing). When writing or reading in my tent I almost always use my headlamp. So, leaving the Lucy light behind is probably a good idea.
As for the compass, being an old Boy Scout, it is one of the ten essentials. It is for a reason. I never go out without my compass. That said, if you get lost you are more likely to be found if you simply sit still and "hug a tree". Only in extreme circumstances would I ever suggest anyone try to get "unlost" themselves. Most people simply do not have the training and experience to do it.
Good luck on your hike. Hopefully I will be able to follow along.
With regard to the compass, most smart phones have a compass feature (as well as a flashlight). If you use the Guthook App (I highly recommend it), it will keep you oriented to the trail so you don't have to take paper maps (and it works while in airplane mode). I tried the 5000 mha solar just like the one you have and it didn't work. I upgraded it to the 13,000 mha solar version and it worked ok in 2016. For 2017 I went with a 20,000 mph Ankar and loved it. Could have gotten by with a lighter version, say somewhere in the 15,000 mha range. In 2016 I left Springer in early March and never needed rain pants. In 2017 I left NOBO from Luray VA on 2 April and never needed rain pants. For me a 30 degree quilt and sleeping cloths were enough to stay warm, but I am a warm sleeper. Don't worry about bug spray until May, but the bug net might come in handy with the gnats almost right away. Good luck, so excited for you. I will resume my hike in up state NY in Apr or May and continue NOBO.
Thanks, Steve! I switched from the solar charger to and Anker 10000 mha. It weights more, bu charges my phone 2-3 times. And I finally got Guthook, I'm looking forward to trying it on the trail soon.
That combo will work great. In 2016 I didn't d. It use guthook. In 2017 I did and it worked great. If you are using an iPhone then keep the charge above 20%. For some reason it takes a lot of power to recharge if it gets below 20%. Also, the iPhone gps work with the phone call n airplane mode so that will help preserve power. Also there is a gps on/off toggle right on the guthook view page so after checking the App you can save more power by turning off the gps. Give the GPS 10-15 seconds to reorient and find satellites after you turn it back on
Sorry about the autocorrect typos
Joyful Rambler I used the Anker 10,000 mAh and it was still overkill. I recorded my 2017 AT thru-hike with an iPhone 7 Plus and used it for Guthook, music and podcast. My Anker 10,000 mAh only used 1 bar out of the 4 before recharging in town. I also used it to recharge my headlamp. If I was going to hike the AT again, I would take a 5,000 mAh; it would be quite a weight savings.
Also, you’ll find out you won’t need a compass. The trail is marked really well, it would be hard to get lost.
It would be a cold day in hell before I would depend on any electronic device for a compass!
Oh, I have that same wallet, a friend gave it to me! Mine says "Big Bucks" and has a deer on it. :-D It's nice because you can just slide the cards in there instead of fighting with the wallet like some of the "ultralight" wallets.
When these guys say something like no compass or no trowel, I tune out.
You got that RIGHT.
jumping in a little late but, I agree with Evan's Backpacking... If you are going to make video on the trail, you will be well served to keep the tripod... for the sake of both quality and ease. I'm sure I'm speaking for many when I say, I hope you do make videos of your hike. Your persona and concise delivery would make for excellent material. Thank you for this video, it is very well done. Oh yes, one more thing: "the" or "a" mirror, when you've discovered what might be a tick, down around the corner, in the nether regions, will pay for the ounce or two it ways many times over. Just sayin'
Your pack was really well done to begin with. You thought a lot of it out.
Greetings Joey from up in Canada! I just found your channel as I am in the process of scouting out those in the 2018 class of A.T. thru-hikers. Great video overview. Thanks for posting. You've got some great kit, and you definitely are in the preferred pack weight zone, way to go! May I suggest that you keep a small compass/thermometer. A compass can be used as a help to get you headed off in the right direction after coming off trail in order to get to a shelter, or coming back on trail after going into town, and for getting back to your tent when nature calls in the middle of the night. A thermometer will help determine what the freezing point is - so that you can know when your water filter needs to be protected from freezing. God willing, I'm planning my nobo thru-hike from Amicalola Falls State Park in 2019. I started collecting gear at the start of 2016 and almost have what I believe that I will need ...lol! I wish you the very best as you prepare and look forward to perhaps one of your greatest adventures. Take care! Lamplighter 2019 out! 😉
Thanks Lamp Lighter! I ended up getting a smaller compass with the thermometer (and built in whistle). It's a nice combo and hand right off my strap for easy access.
Smart has a compass plus now you can get phone cases with mirrors
If you get as cold as you say you do, I'd carry the rain pants anyway. You can always send them home anytime
You’re right. I have a lighter pair now and they’re great for blocking the wind as well. I’ll have them to start for sure.
Great video! I have the same headlamp and Luci light both absolutely great pieces of gear! I personally would bring the the Luci light but obviously thats up to you. I also have that same charger, its not very good as you already know. I haven't got one yet but Anker is suppose to be a very good charger. Im glad you are happy with your Granite Gear pack, I was going to suggest the Z-Packs Ark Haul. I absolutely love that pack! Rain kilts seem to be the way to go also. I don't personally have one yet but definitely plan on getting one. Last but not least I would strongly suggest checking out the Katadyn befree 1 liter water filter, its amazing! I don't hike without it. Anyway best of luck and I look forward to following along on your journey! Joe
I would definitely keep the tripod for vlogging and pics
I disagree. Go grab a stickpic and just attach it too your trekking pole.
Hi Joy, I like your videos and look forward to following you on your hike. If you still want a mirror, you can download an app on your phone that will turn your android phone into a mirror. Good for checking for ticks.
Nice video. Looking for suggestions? Check out the Suunto Clipper compass. less than an ounce, very reliable, mine stays on my chest strap.
I highly recommend getting a proper shake down again on season when you go through Neel's Gap again. I think you are fine, but I believe shack down guy should have been a little more assertive with you.
I would take what I wanted. If I ha an issue I could always send it home.
Hi From VA, I just happened to see your vid. Very informative and like the shakedown. If you want to make sure your on the trail. You can download on your phone the Gut Hook App for the AT. It was 60 bucks for the whole AT trail. I love it. You can see exactly where you are on the trail. It is pretty accurate. Also you can see comments from others about shelters, water sources, town info, elevation and so much more.
Its hard to charge with a solar panel in the green tunnel...
Thanks for sharing Joy. I've seen other Mountain Crossing assessments but this was both well done and informative. Have you considered using the Guthooks app? I think Bigfoot did a great review. I started using it this year on some section hikes. In one case, I lost the trail in the fall under leaves and was able to use the app to discover which direction I needed to go to quickly find the trail. (I was less than 5 ft away). This might save you the wt of compass and maps.
Thanks for watching! Yes, I'm definitely going to use Guthooks. I haven't bought it yet, it's on my wish list.
Very interesting! Thanks! What is the new emergency bivvy that you will buy in exchange with the actual one?
I'm pretty happy with the inexpensive Coghlan's emergency blanket, so I'll stick with that or something similar.
Awesome, thank you for sharing. First time viewer, subscribed. Quick quesion, what do you have in your anti poison ivy kit? Thank you. Warm regards. DP.
Hi DisabledPrepper, thanks for subscribing! I have Ivarest andI IvyX for a pre-contact barrier and anti-itch after exposure. I carry soap (Dr. Bronners) to clean any areas that I know have been touched. I often end up needing an Rx for steriods, if I get that bad, I'll go to an urgent care.
Mountain Crossings along with all the other outfitters would love to sale you some gear. If unsure about your gear or just learning and your planning a long trail hike look at and mainly at people who have done and completed a long trail hike over the last 3 or 4 years hear on UA-cam. Look at what they started with, mid point and finished with gear list. The big thing to notice about Mountain Crossing is that it is where a large amount (up to 1/3) leave ever year b/c they beat their self (knees mainly) to death on the down hill hike. Take it easy the 1st 4 to 6 weeks for people 40 and older or bad out of shape 6 to 8 weeks. Pack light, buy light gear every thur-hiker even at the end of their hike is still looking to cut another oz or even a gram off their pack weight.
Great video but any place that says leave a compass at home I would get up and walk out right there, like you said it deffo goes in the pack. That advise dangerous to the max.
Great Vid, You did well with the loadout, didnt shave very much like I see him rip on some people lol. I didnt notice but did you mention total pack weight before and after shakedown and pack change?
Oh, good catch - I should have included that! I started at about 23 lbs. With the lighter pack and the things he took out, I'm now just under 20. I'd love to get it to 15, although I'm not sure I want to give up that much stuff. I may do more trading when I can shave a bit here and there - lighter stove, pot, etc.
Joyful Rambler 20lbs isn't terrible. Esp if you have an excellent fitting pack
He kicks out the bivy and then says the sleeping bag may leave you cold on a few nights. Think of it as a system. You can always send the bivy home once the weather improves. In the middle of summer you may be sending the sleeping bag home and start using just the bivy. Lots of opportunities to adjust your gear. After some time on the trail you'll have a better idea what you can live without. If you haven't read it yet I recommend the book backpacking light by Ryan Jordan.
Try actually sleeping in that bivy when it's cold. For an emergency maybe but you're better off with a good sleeping bag.
why not a trial and error, camping outing in the winter snow with friend, cooking, frying bacon, and eggs, soup, bread, etc? for 1/3/ days in the woods? like from Friday from work to sunday? make it interesting for your viewers, like me? I love to see how people do all these things in the snow, its cool!
Could you add a few more details on those liner bags you found? What brand name? I couldn't find anything one the Ace website at the $5.99 price point and I'm not an Amazon Prime member. I've been looking for ages for liner bags that weren't 40-50 gallons just for a 40-50 liter pack.
Sure, they were the Ace Hardware brand. I found them in the store. I don’t see them on the website right now, but they were similar to these: www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=1277998
I don’t know why the shakedown people always say to leave the compass. You should always have a compass because it doesn’t have batteries.
You won't need a compass on AT. It is extremely well marked
@@rynierclinton9470 From what I heave heard it seems like it can be easy to get on going the wrong way in the morning. It seems like at least a button compass with a mass of 5 grams would be a worthwhile addition to aid in avoiding these mistakes.
Why headlamp AND flashlight? Couldn’t the headlamp cover everything the flashlight would be used for
You're right - I quickly learned I didn't need both!
Should have got rid of more of that stuff, you still have A lot of stuff that's not needed. He didn't tell you in order to not hurt your feelings. But still good job you have done. I would strap on a bushcraft knife in case you have to dispatch somebody and take their water supply.
Why in God's name would anyone pay $100 to have a pack shakedown when you can watch a video of Will Wood or Dixie on UA-cam and know exactly what you will need? LOL!!!
You're kidding right ? People pay for these shakedowns ? I thought they were for free (in hopes of selling people lighter bps or tents and other lighter gear). Joyful Rambler, is this true ?
Dixie my ass. Much more confidence in Evan or Link or Jupiter, or Beard or Back County Banter.
Does the cat fit in the pack? :)
LOL, he'd be a better hiking companion than my dog, but he's a chunky boy!
I would be looking for another shakedown if someone advised me to shed a 3 oz. compass. Electronics fail.
For a compass, you could go with one of these: www.dickssportinggoods.com/p/coleman-zipper-pull-thermometer-and-compass-16coluthrmmtrcmpscac/16coluthrmmtrcmpscac?camp=CSE:DSG_pg43491_ecom_PLA_452
Not sure of the weight but probably less than yours, and the mirror is not a bad idea for checking for ticks in certain areas, unless you have someone with you to check.
A 100$ what a rip off.
Unless you have built fires in multitude of time in a multitude of environmental situations with a Ferro rod you don't need to carry a Ferro rod. Multiple ways to start fires should be multiple lighters. Not three different methods.
Like an extra lighter is not smarter than a Ferro Rod. NUTS. I "might" carry a book of paper matches in a tiny Ziploc along w/ the 2 Bics
are you going to sell that pack ?
No, it went back to REI once I realized it really wasn't working for me. I'm loving the Granite Gear Crown 60 that replaced it.
Six minutes in and although I am sure by now you have thinned out your pack there is way too much repetition.
Never ever ever do a shakedown there.
$100??!!! did I hear you correctly?! $100 for gear shakedown??!! Wow! Is it just me? Or everyone would gladly pay $100 for gear shakedown? Wow I think hikers are a bunch of filthy rich people. lol If you haven't pay them yet, I'd be glad to do it for $75. Hahahaa. And I guaranteed you will lose at least 25% of your base weight. only 1.7 lb? smh. cmon, headlight n flashlight too? that guy go way too easy on you. keep the tripot, but your cookware can do seriour shake up. water bladder, after 2 weeks u will see goo growing in the tube. unless u have bleach n brushing kit to clean it. y not keep it simple just use easy to clean n replacesable smart water bottles? seriously, that guy did not do his job.