I will say this to any newbies watching this..dont buy a cheap amazon backpack like i did..first hike ever up piper trail to camp penacook in the white mointains and i should have gotten an actual pack meant for hiking..the pack lasted fine but not enough padding, straps kept getting loose.went to an outdoors shop and tried on actual backpack and man the difference was night and day..learned a good lesson.but the trip was amazing and now has me hooked.
Made that mistake also. Turns out it had zero padding on the bottom of the frame, so all my pack weight was resting on a thin piece of metal on my upper pelvis. I don't mind readjusting straps as i hike, but having 20 lbs cutting into my skin with miles to go is not cool.
@@starryeyedbunny amazon tactical backpacks dont make good hiking gear 😂😂 if i really had to go on the run i wouldn't take that pack..ill take my gregory...
Well he was a creator for BackpackingTV, but recently (a year or so ago) he went out on his own and started his own channel (Eric Hanson). So that is probably the main reason. He’ll skyrocket with his new channel as he continues to produce the usual high quality content.
We can think that filling a backpack is quite straightforward, by using simple logics that don't require a Phd. But the experience of a seasoned expert is an invaluable source of foreknowledge and inspiration, saving us from useless frustrations. Thank you sir.
Thank you for showing a realistic load - so many videos show how to pack if you have $5000k in ultralight gear into a 25L pack. Maybe a little hyperbole, but not a lot. There were a couple things in here that I would've traded for other things, but all in all, it works out depending on the person, like I don't need a lot of clothes, but do need more toiletries. Love your channel!
thanks for this vid. just got interested in backpacking and have to go up north for work. got a proper bag and didnt know what a lot of this really was used for and how to make this work. thanks for the explanation
I put my small stuff either in the top compartment, or together in a bag. I really like having things well organized. I have an electronics bag, a spare clothes bag, a food bag, a body care bag, etc. Everything might take a bit more space, but it makes packing that much easier.
I had already decided to buy this pack for crossing Scotland, after using so many others. This video confirms the quality and versatility of Mystery Ranch gear.
I own four different Mystery Ranch backpacks. Once I was introduced to MR, couple of years ago, I never bought a Pack from anyone else. All are the finest, most comfortable and durable backpacks I've owned.
@@tanneroman4812 Hi Tanner, I don't have a copy online and my list is also in Dutch. However, you can find many packing lists online and various UA-camrs give links to their lists in vids that describe what they are packing. The way I organise it is: I have an electronics bag, a spare clothes bag, a food bag, a body care bag, etc. I put them in my backpack in such an order that bags I might need during the day are easily accessible. I keep some loose items in the small top compartment of my backpack, which are also ones I may need during the day. I keep my list in an Excel sheet and weigh every item. The spreadsheet then calculates how much the total weight is. I hope this helps.
Could you do a video on backpacking as a photographer? What are the best bags to use if you going for a day or for several days? As well as how to pack the gear and all your essentials? Also can you make sure to include options that might be better suited for small people or woman? I am only 4'11" and hiking on a small frame is challenging. I have carried as much as 75 lbs. on my back but not going more than 50 lbs. is much better for me. Thanks. 😊
Can I recommend you to looking into a UA-camr called; Josh Carr, he is a major Hiker in WA, and he shows his bag in one of his videos, perfect for photography and rest of gear :)
would pick something with a front zip like a mystery ranch pack so you can get access to your camera stuff. also a hard case for all lenses and a tech pouch of some kind. a peak design capture clip on the strap and it's a decent little setup
Brother I just found your channel and I wish I would have found it sooner. Your experience speaks volume and there's no double talk and leaving me more confused. Thanks for the help. See ya on the trails!
I carried some serious loads up some serious hills (75-80 pounds routinely, close to 100 pounds occasionally) with Mystery Ranch packs over in Asscrackistan. I won't use anything else.
So excited to try my first ever back packing trip this summer...I am sucking in as much information as I can and what you provided here was fantastic! And so are your other videos.
With no external pockets, I can’t believe you got all that into a 50L. I really like this pack, but I’m super hesitant on getting it cause there aren’t any other pockets. The terra frame is stellar.
Good tips on packing. I like to bring a trash compactor bag and use it to line my backpack if there is wet weather. It takes up little space too if not needed. Also like to keep my pack clear on the outside. Worked out for me one time, when I needed to lighten another backpackers load by hanging his tent and items to the outside of my pack. Made for a heavy pack but we all got back home on our own so all was good.
Well, thank you for this video and the one on how to purchase and fit a backpack. I'm hoping to do bikepacking in 2023 and I'm doing the preliminary research. Your videos have helped as I originally chose a huge backpack, more than what I actually would need, then to find this, how to pack it all in. Again, thank you for all the great and helpful information. I have until April 2023 to decide if this is what I want to do for my next years bike excursions. Watching what you do and what others do is very adaptable to bikepacking. Now back to Amazon and other sellers to find a more efficient and usable backpack.
It's good to have a small fire starting bag with different methods of starting fire. Then you can always know your lighter and other methods (Ferro Rod, Magnifying glass, etc.) are all in the same place. Great packing video....
While hiking the High Peaks of the Adirondacks (in winter) I would line my backpack with a sturdy garbage bag. It keeps everything dry! A backpack cover on the outside can catch on branches ect…Also I ALWAYS had at least one extra pair of cushy socks to wear ….it’s like heaven during a 15-22 mile hike!
I very much like the way you packed and the order you packed it in however I’m concerned about the weight of your pack. It’d be too heavy for me. Informative video. Thank you!
Great video! I’m getting ready to go on my first winter backpacking trip soon and I’ve been watching your videos and taking your advice I feel very confident for my first trip, im a big time traditional camper but always wanted to step it up and get into backpacking and trail camping, these are great videos for beginners very straight forward and official, btw also love the setup you go in the background with the wooden shelving and organized equipment, reminds me of the equipment room when I was a scout always exciting being in that room gathering what you need for a camping trip !
I like to put a lot of small stuff that I don't need during the day in my cooking pot. Especially things actually related to cooking like a lighter and fork and spoon, but also spare zip lock bags and other stuff. In camp, all that goes into a plastic bag, so I can cook.
I'm sorry this is going to be rather long. That was some excellent suggestions. I wish I had these suggestions when I was walking across the United States but I did eventually get things situated to where they were comfortable. Believe it or not I was carrying a 75 lb pack which I actually had a smaller one strapped to the outside that carried all the food so that I could get it up and out of the way at night depending on where I was sleeping. Almost always slept in one of those ultra-lightweight hammocks unless there were no trees and then I also carried a one-man tent. It certainly was a challenge and a special trip to me to walk across United States of America. I never logged it in told anyone except for my parents so I didn't get any recognition for it which I really didn't want at the time. With all of the meanness going on now I don't believe I would have tempted it now but anyone thinking that they would like to attempt walking across the u.s., advertise it you can even get sponsors and it won't cost as much but just be safe! Y'all have a great day and stay safe and keep your powder dry!
How did you do that trick at about 21:16 where you rolled up the excess strap and secured it? I magnified it and watched it several times, still can't see how to do it. I usually bring the excess up thru the shock cords and tie them securely together since I won't need to remove anything from them until I get to camp. But your way looks neater!
Not a backpacker but a mom of 3 who loves to tent camp with limited cargo space. A tween and twin toddlers so I'm looking to have everyone's stuff fit in their own pack
Three days worth of food? Eating mostly peanut butter maybe. Let's break it down: The _Good to Go_ Thai Curry is *760* cal/package x1; The _Good to Go_ Chicken Gumbo is *660* cal/package x1; The _Wild Zora_ Palisade Pineapple Mango is *520* cal/package x1; Then the unknown oatmeal packet. Say there are 2 of them (couldn't tell, but it didn't look like more than that), at 160 cal/packet ( _Quaker Oats_ Maple and Brown Sugar used for reference). That's *320* cal; Don't know what the trail bar is, but say 200 cal for the _Epic Bar,_ and just double that, for *400* cal. That's only a total of *2,660* cal. Doing all that work backpacking, that's maybe one day right there. But we're not done. The _Justin's_ Peanut Butter container is 190 cal/serving, at 14 servings (which is coincidentally also *2,660* cal). This gives a total of *5,320* cal. Averaged over 3 days, that's *1,773 cal/day.* That does not seem like sufficient and satisfying consumption. And it might be your thing, but eating a jar of peanut butter, in 3 days, just sounds like a chore.
At least he showed packing food and water. Most videos you watch on UA-cam show everyone jamming their packs full and then saying: “and that is everything….except for any food or water you might need.” Which I assume must go in their pockets or something….Or they make a point saying it is only for a one night trip where they leave at 6 pm the previous day and pack out at 8 am the next morning.
Continuing to love your videos! My hubby has talked me into going with him and the more I watch, the more excited I am for our first trip! As for the packing, what kind of tips or changes would there be for 2 of us sharing the load? Thanks!
So I’ve been having a LOT of shoulder pain and was told at EMS to pack my heaviest items in the center of the pack and not at the bottom??? (We’ve adjusted the straps, torso length etc)
That's totally right what they told you. Heaviest items should be packed in the middle close to your back. When packed close to the bottom, your heavy items just pull you down and cause a bad posture leading to a hurting back :)... and shoulder
For me, the downfall of my pack is my bear can. Many places in CO now require one over a bag. I have a Bearikade, which is carbon fiber, but it is just the volume of this hard sided item that makes it difficult. Love the thought of this bag but seems like a can would be hard to use with it. Thoughts?
Bear canisters are a bear (heyo!) to pack. I really don't like them, but they are quite effective. If you do use a canister, you pretty much need a large volume bag or you just run out of room. I started using an Ursack, similar to Bearikade it sounds. I think it's what I will keep using as they are so much easier to pack.
@@BackpackingTV I see what you did there. Yea, agree…pretty much stuck with a 65 liter pack in order to accommodate it. Gets too heavy strapped to the top of the pack so just throw it in the bag for now. Appreciate the input!
I'm amazed that you got all of that stuff into the bag. I got that mystery ranch terra frame pack...after selling one my spare organs lol. It's 65 liters and seems small lol. Time will tell, thanks for the video.
Thanks Erick, this was/is a good video for me. I’ve run out of room in my pack but still have kind of a lot of other stuff to go into the pack - can’t get my fuel bottle, w. filter and a 2nd water bottle into the pack and no room on the sides.
So the military advises you to put your heavier objects higher and closer to the shoulders, so it helps by “pushing” you along. You said to put the heavier items lower down and closer to the hips. I can see why both theories have merit, but which method is best in actuality?
Hevay things up top is the same advice I have grown up with, and yes I more or less grown up hiking. My parents brought me along at a young age 🙂 But as always ... It depends on the circumstances. If you are hiking with a substantially large and heavy backpack, yes, definately want to make your pack top heavy. That way as much of the weight as possible is straight over your feet, rather then a bit behind you where you have to pull that weight forward using the muscles in your torso. So for hauling heavy loads long distances, you really want heavy stuff up top to cope with it. But there are drawbacks to this, the top-heavyness easily makes the backpack sway, sideways or back and forth. Especially if you try to move fast. Now, hauling heavy loads usually means a slower and more deliberate style of walking anyway, so the swaying is not much of an issue. So, if you are you are packing a relatively light pack - as in this video - that changes. And yes, to me the pack in the video counts as fairly light weight: I usually hike for 6-9 days in much harsher climate which means more food and more clothing and security gear. With a pack up to, say 35 pounds, the method described in the video will probably feel more comfortable for most people. Having that weight slightly behind you (rather then more centred above your feet) is no big strain and you will get a pack that sits still and lets you move fast without having the back pack swaying. So, as usual, it depends 🙂
I was told not to have wide things on the bottom of the bag (tents, sleeping pads, etc.) because you're more likely to bump into things than if you had it on the top. Men's shoulders are usually broader than their hips so they are more aware of that width up high. Any thoughts?
Also was taught A,B,C Accessibility Balance Compression One thing you can't do very well with the tent on the bottom is set your pack down and have it sit upright. That gets annoying
I agree that I'm more aware of the upper part of my pack and am less likely to scrape the that area on rocks/cliffs/ etc. So that makes sense. I think it's personal preference. With my setup, when I put my tent on the bottom it actually helps my pack stay upright when I set it down.
One thing missing is a bear canister! That's a major PIA for me, especially with food for a family of 4. It's yuge! (no i don't hang, it's not reliable)
Cool video, thanks. I Have now also the same backpack worried because of your performance. Here a tip from me: Knife and fire always carry on man. If the backpack is missing once, you can still make a fire. Tape you can also put on an old credit card, can be used better in a pinch and saves space. Greetings from Switzerland
Very useful, thank you. What brand/ make is the shirt you're wearing in the video? I've seen you wearing it in a number of vids but haven't seen the name mentioned! Thanks
Your packs items ( weight ) made my back hurt just watching this video. I found a way to lighten my load. I use the need and not want idea. If I need it and use it , it goes. If I want it , it stays home. Stopped the duplication and most of my stuff does double duty. At the end of a trip if the item was not used then it stay's home the next time. Dropped my basic ( no consumables ) pack weight to between 7 and 8 pounds. All of it fits in a ( 10.5 oz cubin fiber ) 38 liter pack with plenty of room left over for food. Major items for Florida's semi tropical climate. A double bottom Jungle Hammock , rain fly , Titanium alcohol / wood burning stove , BeFree water filter with 2 smart water bottles.
I'm looking at the 45 to 50 liter Mystery Ranch packs. Do you prefer the 3-way zipper or the 270 degree horse-shoe zipper pack access bags and why? Thanks--love your videos!!
I think I prefer the 3-way Y zipper as it's often even easier to access gear, fewer buckles and straps in the way. Plus the straight zipper is easier than the horse shoe curve in my opinion.
I have the same tent and am too nervous to secure it at the bottom of my pack. I feel like the poles are going to break. I pack my poles on the side and the cover inside my pack. Am I being silly?
Great video. Newbie here and curious about bear hangs and vaults. Do you just hang that dry bag or do you have to use smellproof one if not using a big bulky can?
You can just hang a food bag whether it's smell proof or not. But you have to hang it out of bear's reach and hanging in free space (ten feet off the ground and four feet away from a tree).
From our perspective, it looks close to full after the first 3 items lol it a stressful process. I was always so bad at it in the past, i think i can so better now though
For my camp chair, I put one of the straps through the cinch cord of the sack so that if the chair falls out of one side (has happened to me) and then the other, it will dangle from the strap and not fall to the trail while I hike on unaware of what happened
It’s been two years since this video was made, but call me crazy if I think he packed this completely backwards? I’ve been in the Army for 21 years (Infantry) and I’ve walked hundreds, if not close to a 1000 miles with super heavy loads on my back (sometimes 80+ pounds) and we’ve always packed our heavy items in the upper portion or on top of the bag. Have I been led astray for all these years and all those miles?
You were improperly trained back then, because new research probes the exact opposite. Heaviest items should alway be placed horizontally at the very bottom. With time comes technology. Hope this helps
@@videogazer801 lol no. the benefit to that is lower center of gravity. When packing for long distances, higher is better to alleviate rearward strain.
I'm not an UL backpacker, but the sensible person in me lost it when he brought that WHOLE jar of PB 😂 (I'm not saying it's wrong, I know a friend of mine brings steak and beers with him every trip. If you can and don't mind carrying your luxury items, go for it.) They sell the individually wrapped version of that Jason's peanut butter at the store, but it's a lot of plastic waste. I'm still trying to find out a better way to bring condiments like that that works for me cause I love PB too! ....
I find the little plastic containers you get sauce in with takeaway meals great for this. But wrap in an elastic band to make sure the lid won't pop off. Lightweight, good size, and reusing what might otherwise be single use plastic.
I use one of the small Rubbermaid storage cups. Holds about a cup of peanut butter. Mine has a screw on lid, so I don’t have to worry about it coming apart
First example i have seen of a manufacturer independent use of Mystery Ranch packs in the U.S, on U Tube, i use a lot of Mystery Ranch, but its very uncommon in Australia, and so far has appeared to be uncommon in U.S videos too. The question about this particular pack and the load is, which pack ? and what is its capacity ? is it 30 ltr, 38 ltr or 60 ltr, this has quite a bearing on what you can fit into it.
The 65L Terraframe is actually my favorite. I love how the slightly larger one sits on the frame and then sits on my waist and shoulders. Both are great. But it is a little bulkier and heavier too. So be warned.
I know not to go to the bathroom near water, but I've never heard of not camping near water as a part of LNT. Some of the best campsites are right beside the water.
This is true. And many people frequently camp by the water which makes impacted sites, which draws more people to the water. Some of it depends on local regulations and the amount of traffic a place gets and also how delicate an environment might be. So it could change depending on locations. My rule of thumb is to try to look up the camping permitted in certain areas, always try to be respectful, minimize my impact, and at least go to the bathroom 200 feet from water.
I'll add to why one shouldn't camp too close to water. We once camped on the river and there was a storm way worse than expected. We woke up, miraculously, in time to haul ourselves out of the way of the river flooding our site. Not sure what woke my buddy up, but if we hadn't woken up that minute, could have been some real bad news.
Agree with the previous comment...rivers can flood as well as dry river beds. Always remove water and do any washing up 200 feet away from the water source also, both body and any food related items.
Great video Eric. About the tent. I've seen some people mount the tent on the side of a pack vertical like a tripod on a camera pack. If you dont have the bottom straps, but you have straps on the side. Is this something your suggest to do, or stay clear from due to it being a heavy item potentially tilting your pack?
(Although it's been 3 years, it's a general information) - It makes balancing the weight a bit more complicated... What about the front with compression straps, would it tend to pull you back, or can it be adjusted? You could also try to balance the weight by putting your water on the opposite side-pocket (and/or a tripod if you're into photography), instead of behind your back.
I know this is older, but if I don't have straps on the outside of my pack to hold my tent, is there an alternative I can add on? I can't seem to fit my sleeping bag (bigger than yours packed) and my tent and fit any other larger items in my pack.
"Food relatively low" We definitely have different definitions of "low". But that's fine. Wondering, why the spoon AND the spork? What extra value have you found from bringing a spork?
Spoon is great for stirring meals without puncturing the bottom of the bag , spork is good for picking up food . I use both depending on what I am eating , I have punctured a bag of dehydrated food when stirring with a spork , not fun .
@@lucasmdonald7486 I've used both, I just don't personally get any added value from a spork. It doesn't really work like a fork to stab and pick up food with, and everything in those meals can be picked up with a spoon anyway.
Should always carry an emergency whistle, waterproof matches, a compass, a signal mirror, a small bundle of paracord, and a small battery bank for your phone/headlamp.
Glad I found your channel (liked and subbed)! I also have the Terraframe 50 and love it. I’ve used the load out shelf (or whatever they call it) and like to have it when needed, but it definitely pulls you back in that lever style you describe. I used it on a 4 day trip and put my hammock, tarp, under and over quilt all in a 6 mil contractor bag and rolled and taped the top like an improvised dry bag. It worked great, but it was more of a base camp type trip so the actual hiking with full kit was minimal. Just got the MR hooded pack fly and looking to test it out in the rain with this pack. Besides the fitting video (which brought me to your channel) do you have any other videos talking about this particular pack? Just looking for tips or tricks and like to see how others use it that can benefit me while I’m in the woods. Thanks and all the best and great channel!
Are you saying that the loaded backpack in this video is 88lbs?? That is s crippling weight, and the gear packed does not look to be that heavy. If possible, I would like to keep a multi day pack to 40 lbs--or 50lbs MAX.
Hi Frank! LNT stands for Leave No Trace and it's the ethics that every camper/hiker/backpacker/outdoorsperson should follow to be responsible in nature. It's how to protect and respect the environment, the wildlife, and other people in these spaces. Check out more at LNT.com
Currently using the MR Coulee. I really like it but its missing straps/cordage on the bottom so you can attach your tent. Anyone know an easy mod to make to the bottom of a pack to accommodate for this? (Currently using bungee cord with carribeners threading through the hip belt then around the tent and onto the trekking pile loops.)
Has anyone ever half frozen the waterbladder before the trip top off just before u go .... i get the sweating n stuff but! Is it doable or will the "bladder" handle the freezing process?
Here in Texas I do that all the time, from day hikes to century rides. Only fill it half way and freeze it laying on its side. It does help. Water doesn’t stay as cold as you would hope, if you drink a lot at the beginning, when you top foo it keeps the water cool.
I will say this to any newbies watching this..dont buy a cheap amazon backpack like i did..first hike ever up piper trail to camp penacook in the white mointains and i should have gotten an actual pack meant for hiking..the pack lasted fine but not enough padding, straps kept getting loose.went to an outdoors shop and tried on actual backpack and man the difference was night and day..learned a good lesson.but the trip was amazing and now has me hooked.
Made that mistake also. Turns out it had zero padding on the bottom of the frame, so all my pack weight was resting on a thin piece of metal on my upper pelvis. I don't mind readjusting straps as i hike, but having 20 lbs cutting into my skin with miles to go is not cool.
@@starryeyedbunny amazon tactical backpacks dont make good hiking gear 😂😂 if i really had to go on the run i wouldn't take that pack..ill take my gregory...
Guess I’ll join the “idiot Amazon customer” club
@@El_CID801 everyone who uses that website is
Meh I got a 65$ terra peaks 85L+25 works great, I mean I got an osprey. Gregory a mystery ranch kelty a tanzing and it still has it's place
Bro why does this guy not have more subscribers. He is a very great UA-camr and very good at teaching
Well he was a creator for BackpackingTV, but recently (a year or so ago) he went out on his own and started his own channel (Eric Hanson). So that is probably the main reason. He’ll skyrocket with his new channel as he continues to produce the usual high quality content.
We can think that filling a backpack is quite straightforward, by using simple logics that don't require a Phd. But the experience of a seasoned expert is an invaluable source of foreknowledge and inspiration, saving us from useless frustrations. Thank you sir.
Thank you for showing a realistic load - so many videos show how to pack if you have $5000k in ultralight gear into a 25L pack. Maybe a little hyperbole, but not a lot. There were a couple things in here that I would've traded for other things, but all in all, it works out depending on the person, like I don't need a lot of clothes, but do need more toiletries. Love your channel!
UL gear being expensive is not completely true anymore, for the same price as traditional gear you can get a pack with a sub 13 lbs baseweight
thanks for this vid. just got interested in backpacking and have to go up north for work. got a proper bag and didnt know what a lot of this really was used for and how to make this work. thanks for the explanation
Thank you for posting a video showing how to pack everything. This is reality for many of us. Not just dry weight.
I put my small stuff either in the top compartment, or together in a bag. I really like having things well organized.
I have an electronics bag, a spare clothes bag, a food bag, a body care bag, etc. Everything might take a bit more space, but it makes packing that much easier.
I had already decided to buy this pack for crossing Scotland, after using so many others. This video confirms the quality and versatility of Mystery Ranch gear.
How did it work?
I myself got the tidewe external framed bag.
I own four different Mystery Ranch backpacks. Once I was introduced to MR, couple of years ago, I never bought a Pack from anyone else. All are the finest, most comfortable and durable backpacks I've owned.
Just getting into the hobby and your channel has been great for learning. Thank you for your content!!
Glad I could help!
I keep a packing list that says what goes where. It undergoes relatively little change over the years and ensures I don't forget anything.
Where can I get a copy?
@@tanneroman4812 Hi Tanner, I don't have a copy online and my list is also in Dutch.
However, you can find many packing lists online and various UA-camrs give links to their lists in vids that describe what they are packing.
The way I organise it is: I have an electronics bag, a spare clothes bag, a food bag, a body care bag, etc. I put them in my backpack in such an order that bags I might need during the day are easily accessible. I keep some loose items in the small top compartment of my backpack, which are also ones I may need during the day.
I keep my list in an Excel sheet and weigh every item. The spreadsheet then calculates how much the total weight is.
I hope this helps.
@@diedertspijkerboertx
Could you do a video on backpacking as a photographer? What are the best bags to use if you going for a day or for several days? As well as how to pack the gear and all your essentials? Also can you make sure to include options that might be better suited for small people or woman? I am only 4'11" and hiking on a small frame is challenging. I have carried as much as 75 lbs. on my back but not going more than 50 lbs. is much better for me. Thanks. 😊
Can I recommend you to looking into a UA-camr called; Josh Carr, he is a major Hiker in WA, and he shows his bag in one of his videos, perfect for photography and rest of gear :)
The same method but a larger bag dude
would pick something with a front zip like a mystery ranch pack so you can get access to your camera stuff. also a hard case for all lenses and a tech pouch of some kind. a peak design capture clip on the strap and it's a decent little setup
New backpacker, I found this video to be very helpful. Thanks
Brother I just found your channel and I wish I would have found it sooner. Your experience speaks volume and there's no double talk and leaving me more confused. Thanks for the help. See ya on the trails!
Right on! Thanks Nate!
I carried some serious loads up some serious hills (75-80 pounds routinely, close to 100 pounds occasionally) with Mystery Ranch packs over in Asscrackistan. I won't use anything else.
So excited to try my first ever back packing trip this summer...I am sucking in as much information as I can and what you provided here was fantastic! And so are your other videos.
I hope it goes well! Such an awesome feeling to be out in nature, everything you see is beautiful. God bless bro!
How was it? I’m planning my first trip for this December
have you decided on a bag?
Did you go? How was the trip?
With no external pockets, I can’t believe you got all that into a 50L.
I really like this pack, but I’m super hesitant on getting it cause there aren’t any other pockets. The terra frame is stellar.
Good tips on packing. I like to bring a trash compactor bag and use it to line my backpack if there is wet weather. It takes up little space too if not needed. Also like to keep my pack clear on the outside. Worked out for me one time, when I needed to lighten another backpackers load by hanging his tent and items to the outside of my pack. Made for a heavy pack but we all got back home on our own so all was good.
Well, thank you for this video and the one on how to purchase and fit a backpack. I'm hoping to do bikepacking in 2023 and I'm doing the preliminary research. Your videos have helped as I originally chose a huge backpack, more than what I actually would need, then to find this, how to pack it all in. Again, thank you for all the great and helpful information. I have until April 2023 to decide if this is what I want to do for my next years bike excursions. Watching what you do and what others do is very adaptable to bikepacking. Now back to Amazon and other sellers to find a more efficient and usable backpack.
Good demo, thank you. I'm curious about the final weight of your pack, it would be a good guide, letting me know if I am overpacking, 😎
It's good to have a small fire starting bag with different methods of starting fire. Then you can always know your lighter and other methods (Ferro Rod, Magnifying glass, etc.) are all in the same place.
Great packing video....
I cut up a foam pad to sit on and I roll it around my tent at the bottom. Great protection and easy to take on and off.
Very much appreciated! Watching from Northern Alberta.
You must be viewing the events through a pair of Zeiss 20x imagine stabilizing binoculars, eh?
While hiking the High Peaks of the Adirondacks (in winter) I would line my backpack with a sturdy garbage bag. It keeps everything dry! A backpack cover on the outside can catch on branches ect…Also I ALWAYS had at least one extra pair of cushy socks to wear ….it’s like heaven during a 15-22 mile hike!
I very much like the way you packed and the order you packed it in however I’m concerned about the weight of your pack. It’d be too heavy for me. Informative video. Thank you!
Great video! I’m getting ready to go on my first winter backpacking trip soon and I’ve been watching your videos and taking your advice I feel very confident for my first trip, im a big time traditional camper but always wanted to step it up and get into backpacking and trail camping, these are great videos for beginners very straight forward and official, btw also love the setup you go in the background with the wooden shelving and organized equipment, reminds me of the equipment room when I was a scout always exciting being in that room gathering what you need for a camping trip !
As a starter in voly search and rescue I really appreciate this information ❤
I like to put a lot of small stuff that I don't need during the day in my cooking pot. Especially things actually related to cooking like a lighter and fork and spoon, but also spare zip lock bags and other stuff. In camp, all that goes into a plastic bag, so I can cook.
Interesting, but what is the weight of your full pack? Looks heavy to me.
Dude has some serious gear!
@@williamcunningham1586 sure does
160 carrying 50+
my bag is mystery ranch terraframe 65L blue colour very beautiful and cool one man
I'm sorry this is going to be rather long. That was some excellent suggestions. I wish I had these suggestions when I was walking across the United States but I did eventually get things situated to where they were comfortable. Believe it or not I was carrying a 75 lb pack which I actually had a smaller one strapped to the outside that carried all the food so that I could get it up and out of the way at night depending on where I was sleeping. Almost always slept in one of those ultra-lightweight hammocks unless there were no trees and then I also carried a one-man tent. It certainly was a challenge and a special trip to me to walk across United States of America. I never logged it in told anyone except for my parents so I didn't get any recognition for it which I really didn't want at the time. With all of the meanness going on now I don't believe I would have tempted it now but anyone thinking that they would like to attempt walking across the u.s., advertise it you can even get sponsors and it won't cost as much but just be safe! Y'all have a great day and stay safe and keep your powder dry!
Incredible journey!!!
How did you do that trick at about 21:16 where you rolled up the excess strap and secured it? I magnified it and watched it several times, still can't see how to do it. I usually bring the excess up thru the shock cords and tie them securely together since I won't need to remove anything from them until I get to camp. But your way looks neater!
Not a backpacker but a mom of 3 who loves to tent camp with limited cargo space. A tween and twin toddlers so I'm looking to have everyone's stuff fit in their own pack
very nice. was debating between terra frame 50 vs 65
Three days worth of food? Eating mostly peanut butter maybe. Let's break it down:
The _Good to Go_ Thai Curry is *760* cal/package x1;
The _Good to Go_ Chicken Gumbo is *660* cal/package x1;
The _Wild Zora_ Palisade Pineapple Mango is *520* cal/package x1;
Then the unknown oatmeal packet. Say there are 2 of them (couldn't tell, but it didn't look like more than that), at 160 cal/packet ( _Quaker Oats_ Maple and Brown Sugar used for reference). That's *320* cal;
Don't know what the trail bar is, but say 200 cal for the _Epic Bar,_ and just double that, for *400* cal.
That's only a total of *2,660* cal.
Doing all that work backpacking, that's maybe one day right there. But we're not done.
The _Justin's_ Peanut Butter container is 190 cal/serving, at 14 servings (which is coincidentally also *2,660* cal).
This gives a total of *5,320* cal. Averaged over 3 days, that's *1,773 cal/day.*
That does not seem like sufficient and satisfying consumption. And it might be your thing, but eating a jar of peanut butter, in 3 days, just sounds like a chore.
😂
At least he showed packing food and water. Most videos you watch on UA-cam show everyone jamming their packs full and then saying: “and that is everything….except for any food or water you might need.” Which I assume must go in their pockets or something….Or they make a point saying it is only for a one night trip where they leave at 6 pm the previous day and pack out at 8 am the next morning.
Great video. Thank you. Doing my first 4-day hike soon.
What if it rains? Won't your clothes get wet if they aren't in a bag?
Really appreciate your content. Could you please make a video about how would you prefer to carry camera equipment on the trail with yourself?
How heavy is this load? Great job!
That was what I would like to know as well.
Total weight with the backpack is 88 kilograms
Continuing to love your videos! My hubby has talked me into going with him and the more I watch, the more excited I am for our first trip! As for the packing, what kind of tips or changes would there be for 2 of us sharing the load? Thanks!
I'd like to see more on packing as a couple too. Now that he is engaged or married maybe he (Eric) can do a video for that. #backpacking #epictrails
This is the exact pack I am looking to purchase. Even though it’s not a review, it’s nice to see it in use.
Great! You'll love it.
So I’ve been having a LOT of shoulder pain and was told at EMS to pack my heaviest items in the center of the pack and not at the bottom??? (We’ve adjusted the straps, torso length etc)
That's totally right what they told you. Heaviest items should be packed in the middle close to your back. When packed close to the bottom, your heavy items just pull you down and cause a bad posture leading to a hurting back :)... and shoulder
Yeah this was my comment as well
He does mention that with the water, but then backtracks with the tent🤔
Heading to Jasper in August for three days, I need as much advice as possible.
For me, the downfall of my pack is my bear can. Many places in CO now require one over a bag. I have a Bearikade, which is carbon fiber, but it is just the volume of this hard sided item that makes it difficult. Love the thought of this bag but seems like a can would be hard to use with it. Thoughts?
Bear canisters are a bear (heyo!) to pack. I really don't like them, but they are quite effective. If you do use a canister, you pretty much need a large volume bag or you just run out of room. I started using an Ursack, similar to Bearikade it sounds. I think it's what I will keep using as they are so much easier to pack.
@@BackpackingTV I see what you did there. Yea, agree…pretty much stuck with a 65 liter pack in order to accommodate it. Gets too heavy strapped to the top of the pack so just throw it in the bag for now. Appreciate the input!
Very informative and logical .
I'm amazed that you got all of that stuff into the bag. I got that mystery ranch terra frame pack...after selling one my spare organs lol. It's 65 liters and seems small lol. Time will tell, thanks for the video.
Thanks Erick, this was/is a good video for me. I’ve run out of room in my pack but still have kind of a lot of other stuff to go into the pack - can’t get my fuel bottle, w. filter and a 2nd water bottle into the pack and no room on the sides.
What size pack are you workin with?
What are the details on that 3-liter water bladder, used for gathering and packing water at distance from camp?
Great video!!! I always have problems packing the exterior of my bag!!! This pretty much broke it (the entire process) down to stupid-terms.
So the military advises you to put your heavier objects higher and closer to the shoulders, so it helps by “pushing” you along. You said to put the heavier items lower down and closer to the hips. I can see why both theories have merit, but which method is best in actuality?
Hevay things up top is the same advice I have grown up with, and yes I more or less grown up hiking. My parents brought me along at a young age 🙂
But as always ... It depends on the circumstances.
If you are hiking with a substantially large and heavy backpack, yes, definately want to make your pack top heavy. That way as much of the weight as possible is straight over your feet, rather then a bit behind you where you have to pull that weight forward using the muscles in your torso. So for hauling heavy loads long distances, you really want heavy stuff up top to cope with it. But there are drawbacks to this, the top-heavyness easily makes the backpack sway, sideways or back and forth. Especially if you try to move fast. Now, hauling heavy loads usually means a slower and more deliberate style of walking anyway, so the swaying is not much of an issue.
So, if you are you are packing a relatively light pack - as in this video - that changes. And yes, to me the pack in the video counts as fairly light weight: I usually hike for 6-9 days in much harsher climate which means more food and more clothing and security gear. With a pack up to, say 35 pounds, the method described in the video will probably feel more comfortable for most people. Having that weight slightly behind you (rather then more centred above your feet) is no big strain and you will get a pack that sits still and lets you move fast without having the back pack swaying.
So, as usual, it depends 🙂
I was told not to have wide things on the bottom of the bag (tents, sleeping pads, etc.) because you're more likely to bump into things than if you had it on the top. Men's shoulders are usually broader than their hips so they are more aware of that width up high. Any thoughts?
Also was taught A,B,C
Accessibility
Balance
Compression
One thing you can't do very well with the tent on the bottom is set your pack down and have it sit upright. That gets annoying
I agree that I'm more aware of the upper part of my pack and am less likely to scrape the that area on rocks/cliffs/ etc. So that makes sense. I think it's personal preference. With my setup, when I put my tent on the bottom it actually helps my pack stay upright when I set it down.
@@BackpackingTV interesting
thanks for the video. whats your base weight for something like this?
Can you tell us how much your backpack weights, please?
One thing missing is a bear canister! That's a major PIA for me, especially with food for a family of 4. It's yuge!
(no i don't hang, it's not reliable)
Yeah! That depends on where you are though. Where I am I don’t use canisters.
Packing backpack with a bear can for backpacking in the Sierra’s? Do you have a video covering this?
What's the weight of your backpack without food? Really like your videos!
I have this backpack its the Mystery Ranch Terraframe 50 and the pack alone is 5lbs. It will last for many many years unscathed. Love it.
He stated 88 kilograms in total with the backpack
Thank you. Great information.
Dan Becker is right about one thing-- bringing a chair with back support is SO worth doing.
What about your way of packing with a bear canister? Or is there a video you have done on that?
Cool video, thanks.
I Have now also the same backpack worried because of your performance.
Here a tip from me: Knife and fire always carry on man. If the backpack is missing once, you can still make a fire.
Tape you can also put on an old credit card, can be used better in a pinch and saves space.
Greetings from Switzerland
I saw other youtubers say to put your heaviest items in the middle of the pack. Also most of them keep their lighter in their cookpot.
Great vid...thank you for sharing!
Very useful, thank you. What brand/ make is the shirt you're wearing in the video? I've seen you wearing it in a number of vids but haven't seen the name mentioned! Thanks
Lovely very informative helpful picture quality is very good.Thank you Love from India 😊👍
Your packs items ( weight ) made my back hurt just watching this video. I found a way to lighten my load. I use the need and not want idea. If I need it and use it , it goes. If I want it , it stays home. Stopped the duplication and most of my stuff does double duty. At the end of a trip if the item was not used then it stay's home the next time. Dropped my basic ( no consumables ) pack weight to between 7 and 8 pounds. All of it fits in a ( 10.5 oz cubin fiber ) 38 liter pack with plenty of room left over for food. Major items for Florida's semi tropical climate. A double bottom Jungle Hammock , rain fly , Titanium alcohol / wood burning stove , BeFree water filter with 2 smart water bottles.
I'm looking at the 45 to 50 liter Mystery Ranch packs. Do you prefer the 3-way zipper or the 270 degree horse-shoe zipper pack access bags and why? Thanks--love your videos!!
I think I prefer the 3-way Y zipper as it's often even easier to access gear, fewer buckles and straps in the way. Plus the straight zipper is easier than the horse shoe curve in my opinion.
Great video. The only important thing to also bri g is a good pair of gloves for safety. Thank you😊
How much did your pack weigh after it was all said and done?
I have the same tent and am too nervous to secure it at the bottom of my pack. I feel like the poles are going to break. I pack my poles on the side and the cover inside my pack. Am I being silly?
Thanks for the setup! I like how everyone has there unique ways that work for them 🤙🏽 Good way to pack.
Great video. Newbie here and curious about bear hangs and vaults. Do you just hang that dry bag or do you have to use smellproof one if not using a big bulky can?
You can just hang a food bag whether it's smell proof or not. But you have to hang it out of bear's reach and hanging in free space (ten feet off the ground and four feet away from a tree).
From our perspective, it looks close to full after the first 3 items lol it a stressful process. I was always so bad at it in the past, i think i can so better now though
So where do you put your camera?, since you mentioned that you bring a tripod for camera
For my camp chair, I put one of the straps through the cinch cord of the sack so that if the chair falls out of one side (has happened to me) and then the other, it will dangle from the strap and not fall to the trail while I hike on unaware of what happened
It’s been two years since this video was made, but call me crazy if I think he packed this completely backwards? I’ve been in the Army for 21 years (Infantry) and I’ve walked hundreds, if not close to a 1000 miles with super heavy loads on my back (sometimes 80+ pounds) and we’ve always packed our heavy items in the upper portion or on top of the bag. Have I been led astray for all these years and all those miles?
No we were taught correctly. You definitely do not want weight low in a pack.
You were improperly trained back then, because new research probes the exact opposite. Heaviest items should alway be placed horizontally at the very bottom. With time comes technology. Hope this helps
@@videogazer801 lol no. the benefit to that is lower center of gravity. When packing for long distances, higher is better to alleviate rearward strain.
@@scottlees267 shit, maybe that’s why my back is sore today 🤔
What new research? Please share your sources. I’m interested
I'm not an UL backpacker, but the sensible person in me lost it when he brought that WHOLE jar of PB 😂 (I'm not saying it's wrong, I know a friend of mine brings steak and beers with him every trip. If you can and don't mind carrying your luxury items, go for it.)
They sell the individually wrapped version of that Jason's peanut butter at the store, but it's a lot of plastic waste. I'm still trying to find out a better way to bring condiments like that that works for me cause I love PB too! ....
I find the little plastic containers you get sauce in with takeaway meals great for this. But wrap in an elastic band to make sure the lid won't pop off. Lightweight, good size, and reusing what might otherwise be single use plastic.
I use one of the small Rubbermaid storage cups. Holds about a cup of peanut butter. Mine has a screw on lid, so I don’t have to worry about it coming apart
I suppose you could use PB powder and put it in a plastic bag. You just have to mix a little bit of water with it later on
First example i have seen of a manufacturer independent use of Mystery Ranch packs in the U.S, on U Tube, i use a lot of Mystery Ranch, but its very uncommon in Australia, and so far has appeared to be uncommon in U.S videos too.
The question about this particular pack and the load is, which pack ? and what is its capacity ? is it 30 ltr, 38 ltr or 60 ltr, this has quite a bearing on what you can fit into it.
Thanks for the great video. I'm debating between this bag and the 65. Anybody know the major differences?
The 65L Terraframe is actually my favorite. I love how the slightly larger one sits on the frame and then sits on my waist and shoulders. Both are great. But it is a little bulkier and heavier too. So be warned.
@@BackpackingTV Awesome, I appreciate your feedback. I'll look into the 65 some more!
Which one is this?
I know not to go to the bathroom near water, but I've never heard of not camping near water as a part of LNT. Some of the best campsites are right beside the water.
This is true. And many people frequently camp by the water which makes impacted sites, which draws more people to the water. Some of it depends on local regulations and the amount of traffic a place gets and also how delicate an environment might be. So it could change depending on locations. My rule of thumb is to try to look up the camping permitted in certain areas, always try to be respectful, minimize my impact, and at least go to the bathroom 200 feet from water.
I'll add to why one shouldn't camp too close to water. We once camped on the river and there was a storm way worse than expected. We woke up, miraculously, in time to haul ourselves out of the way of the river flooding our site. Not sure what woke my buddy up, but if we hadn't woken up that minute, could have been some real bad news.
Agree with the previous comment...rivers can flood as well as dry river beds. Always remove water and do any washing up 200 feet away from the water source also, both body and any food related items.
nice backpack
I bought 50L and it's a amazing
Excellent info
Watching from
Wales UK.
🙂
👍👍👍
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video Eric. About the tent. I've seen some people mount the tent on the side of a pack vertical like a tripod on a camera pack. If you dont have the bottom straps, but you have straps on the side. Is this something your suggest to do, or stay clear from due to it being a heavy item potentially tilting your pack?
(Although it's been 3 years, it's a general information) - It makes balancing the weight a bit more complicated... What about the front with compression straps, would it tend to pull you back, or can it be adjusted? You could also try to balance the weight by putting your water on the opposite side-pocket (and/or a tripod if you're into photography), instead of behind your back.
Nice video. I never understood why people bring duct tape though. What’s it for??
It's for lots of things! Repairs mostly, such as slices in jackets our holes in the rain fly. Always good to have on hand!
@@BackpackingTV Oh. I prefer the patch kits for stuff like that. Thanks for the reply!
Great firestarter too.
Some people have suggested putting heavier items near the top of the pack?
Jacket, t-shirt etc. secure outside is the best 👌
I’d be worried about them snagging on stuff and possibly getting damaged due to the exposure of those elements.
Save weight...no tent...freeze, be a man 😄. Good video man, no experience other than ruckin in the army.
haha, yeah those days are done for me!
Good idea is cargo pants or shorts super nice for holding the little stuff that you don’t want to put in your backpack
I know this is older, but if I don't have straps on the outside of my pack to hold my tent, is there an alternative I can add on? I can't seem to fit my sleeping bag (bigger than yours packed) and my tent and fit any other larger items in my pack.
"Food relatively low"
We definitely have different definitions of "low".
But that's fine. Wondering, why the spoon AND the spork? What extra value have you found from bringing a spork?
Spoon is great for stirring meals without puncturing the bottom of the bag , spork is good for picking up food . I use both depending on what I am eating , I have punctured a bag of dehydrated food when stirring with a spork , not fun .
@@lucasmdonald7486 I've used both, I just don't personally get any added value from a spork. It doesn't really work like a fork to stab and pick up food with, and everything in those meals can be picked up with a spoon anyway.
Chopsticks 👍
Thank you bro.
Should always carry an emergency whistle, waterproof matches, a compass, a signal mirror, a small bundle of paracord, and a small battery bank for your phone/headlamp.
Glad I found your channel (liked and subbed)! I also have the Terraframe 50 and love it. I’ve used the load out shelf (or whatever they call it) and like to have it when needed, but it definitely pulls you back in that lever style you describe. I used it on a 4 day trip and put my hammock, tarp, under and over quilt all in a 6 mil contractor bag and rolled and taped the top like an improvised dry bag. It worked great, but it was more of a base camp type trip so the actual hiking with full kit was minimal. Just got the MR hooded pack fly and looking to test it out in the rain with this pack. Besides the fitting video (which brought me to your channel) do you have any other videos talking about this particular pack? Just looking for tips or tricks and like to see how others use it that can benefit me while I’m in the woods. Thanks and all the best and great channel!
Right on! I'll have more videos like what you're requesting coming down the road. I appreciate you asking for specifics!
@@BackpackingTV do you answer the specific questions, i.e. weight of the pack after all the gear is packed, or weight without food and water?
@@josephchandler5591
This backpack is 5 pound empty. Loaded here in this video is 88 pounds, and the pack can handle it with ease. Hope this helps.
Are you saying that the loaded backpack in this video is 88lbs?? That is s crippling weight, and the gear packed does not look to be that heavy. If possible, I would like to keep a multi day pack to 40 lbs--or 50lbs MAX.
@@DiGiTaLdAzEDM for me it’s 50lbs max including food and some water. Lol, if people are doing 88lbs I feel sorry for their knees and back
How heavy does that pack weigh.
What do you think about the mystery Ranch Coulee 25?
It would be an option for mild hiking
you mentioned something about camping away from water, pond, lake, river for L&T, I think you said L&T. What is that?
Hi Frank! LNT stands for Leave No Trace and it's the ethics that every camper/hiker/backpacker/outdoorsperson should follow to be responsible in nature. It's how to protect and respect the environment, the wildlife, and other people in these spaces. Check out more at LNT.com
@@BackpackingTV thanks for the reply. I had no idea what it meant.
where do u put your money and id ?
I’m your trouser pockets
Is that pack waterproof as your clothes are loose in side 😮
Currently using the MR Coulee. I really like it but its missing straps/cordage on the bottom so you can attach your tent. Anyone know an easy mod to make to the bottom of a pack to accommodate for this? (Currently using bungee cord with carribeners threading through the hip belt then around the tent and onto the trekking pile loops.)
When I hike I only put the jet boil and the sleeping mat on the outside
Has anyone ever half frozen the waterbladder before the trip top off just before u go .... i get the sweating n stuff but! Is it doable or will the "bladder" handle the freezing process?
That would theoretically work. The bladder would handle it I think. But then you'd be unable to drink out of it until it unfroze.
Here in Texas I do that all the time, from day hikes to century rides. Only fill it half way and freeze it laying on its side. It does help. Water doesn’t stay as cold as you would hope, if you drink a lot at the beginning, when you top foo it keeps the water cool.
What’s the base weight for this setup?