Expensive vs Cheap Gear: Which Performs Better?

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  • Опубліковано 26 чер 2024
  • It’s tempting to save on gear to spend more on your next trip, but is it worth it? Use code PACKHACKER at incogni.com/packhacker to get an exclusive 60% off an annual Incogni plan.
    0:00 - Intro
    0:22 - 3-in-1 Battery Bank
    2:53 - Incogni
    3:53 - 3-in-1 Cable
    6:03 - Sling
    7:53 - Packing Cubes
    10:11 - Toiletry Bottles
    From bags to tech to packing cubes, there are tons of dupes out there, but are they a waste of money or a good savings? We’re putting more cheap gear up against expensive counterparts to see where you can skimp and where you should spend. Whether you’re in the market for new tech, a new bag, or new travel accessories, we’ve got gear for you to try.
    Check out all of our sponsors here 👉 packhacker.com/deals/
    PRODUCTS MENTIONED
    Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank: packhacker.com/travel-gear/sa...
    VRURC 3 in 1 Magnetic Wireless Portable Charger: packhacker.com/travel-gear/vr...
    Anker PowerLine II 3-in-1 Cable: packhacker.com/travel-gear/an...
    onn. Tri-Tip to USB Cable: packhacker.com/travel-gear/on...
    Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag: packhacker.com/travel-gear/tr...
    MAXTOP Waist Pack Belt Bag: packhacker.com/travel-gear/ma...
    Peak Design Packing Cubes: packhacker.com/travel-gear/pe...
    AmazonBasics Packing Cube Set: packhacker.com/travel-gear/am...
    Humangear GoToob+: packhacker.com/travel-gear/hu...
    Equate 8 Piece Travel: packhacker.com/travel-gear/eq...
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    View more travel gear reviews on our website: packhacker.com/travel-gear/
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 86

  • @PackHacker
    @PackHacker  5 місяців тому +1

    Use code PACKHACKER at incogni.com/packhacker to get an exclusive 60% off an annual Incogni plan.

    • @Car_Fanatic
      @Car_Fanatic 5 місяців тому

      Anker is the only good battery bank and charger company on earth and not everyone is an iphome and apple watch user. Who cares about sateki. Your team needs to google better. Anyway ❤ ur channel

  • @durhamskywriter
    @durhamskywriter 5 місяців тому +130

    I’m a huge fan of Pack Hacker, and because I happen to be low-income, I don’t get to travel as often as some. I start packing months in advance out of pure excitement and anticipation when I get the chance to visit family and friends. Most of the gear featured in PH videos are wildly out of reach, but watching these videos alerts me to features I should be looking for. I take great pride in being able to identify excellent but low-cost versions and that adds to the fun!

    • @jonevansauthor
      @jonevansauthor 5 місяців тому +4

      Yes. The easy way to take care of price on some of these - other than stop buying Apple's awful tat - is to put it on an Amazon wishlist and wait for the next sale. It's not the sort of stuff you plan to upgrade every year. But a cheap packing cube is better than one, I got mid-range ones on sale and they're a big upgrade. I won't be replacing them for a long time.

    • @karimgilyazov6288
      @karimgilyazov6288 5 місяців тому +8

      I hope your finances get better and soon you'll go to your dream destination! Cheers.

    • @davidlan5698
      @davidlan5698 5 місяців тому +3

      Sometimes you can go cheap if it works the same. I go for zip lock bags when traveling in Asian budget airlines that are very strict about 15 lbs total, but my bag is a $350 ultralight bag that carries 40L and weighs 300g. that's where I spend my money on. Packing cubes are not my first priority, but ultralight Osprey and Eagle creek compression ones are my midrange choice and they have lasted me over 6 years now in countless trips, no need for $70 packing cubes, seriously.

    • @theresabu3000
      @theresabu3000 4 місяці тому +1

      I try to don't spend a lot either - and only buy what's essential, multi use, durable and I can't replace with something else/cheaper.
      I have a packable backpack (Vaude 30€) that I use as a daypack.
      And as a big "packing cube" in my hiking bag, that I mainly use for traveling with trains. And at the end of the trip my dirty clothes end up in the daypack - to divide from the clean ones.

    • @TessaOswin
      @TessaOswin 3 місяці тому +1

      @@jonevansauthorthe cheap Amazon set seems like a good way to work out which sizes you actually use. I’m using a bunch of random mini toiletries containers whist I work out what sizes and style I actually use (I’ve been trialing them by taking them use after swimming). Also if you can borrow similar items that can be a great way to save money if you find it just don’t work for you. I’m borrowing a sling off my mum to see how much room I actually need (I may need extra since summer women’s clothes rarely have pockets)

  • @smashbro5
    @smashbro5 5 місяців тому +8

    It's a case by case basis, higher price doesn't always mean a better product. Reminds me of a wine tour I took a long time ago- I still remember our guide telling us that he's had $10 bottles of wine that were amazing, but also $100 bottles that were so bad that he poured them down the sink.

  • @JustJessee
    @JustJessee 5 місяців тому +9

    So glad this wasn't just a preachy "buy it nice or buy it twice" tisktisk review. Got some ideas for replacements now!

  • @jamotto1569
    @jamotto1569 5 місяців тому +8

    Ah yes the Peak Design Self Opening packing cubes! Guaranteed to self open at the most inconvenient time.

  • @696969bold
    @696969bold 5 місяців тому +10

    If the goal is to have affordable gear for the occasional travel, this is a great video! It's a very different mindset when you travel with great frequency and virtually live out of your gear vs. occasional travel/ vacationing 1-2x year. There is no need to break the bank if you dont have to.
    Food for thought, some things are worth the extra money if it's durable. Longevity across the years lets you maintain even greater savings overall. It's all in the perspective and your needs. 🤓

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for sharing your insights! 🤙

  • @lovestodive1879
    @lovestodive1879 5 місяців тому +6

    I love ya'lls reviews but one small nit pick. Not everyone has Apple products.

  • @t.h.2605
    @t.h.2605 5 місяців тому +4

    I once bought a 3 in 1, 4 feet long charging cable for a little less than $10 from Amazon, unfortunately it died within a month. I then went to a Chinese site and bought another for less than $2, it’s been working hard for over 2 years now. Both cables are made in China and looks identical. Me think it’s about luck.

  • @makotokino4533
    @makotokino4533 5 місяців тому +6

    Cheaper is not always better and neither is super pricey I go with a mix of both when it suits sometimes mixing and matching is better so if something goes wrong you have some backup rather than not it wouldn't hurt to carry an extra ziplock bag or a mesh backpack inside in case something breaks good content and review on both thanks

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for sharing your insights! 🤙

  • @michaelk7007
    @michaelk7007 5 місяців тому +3

    Just want to comment on the Amazon Basic Packing Cube cost quoted here (18.99). They go on sale and clearance often. I have picked up sets at 3bucks, 5bucks, and 6bucks in the past year. Blue seems to go on sale most often if you want to keep an eye out.

  • @alibur19
    @alibur19 5 місяців тому +1

    We've used the Amazon basics cube for several international trips over the years. I love them. You can even toss them in the washer no problem.

  • @chrisguevara
    @chrisguevara 5 місяців тому +3

    I use both Peak Design packing cubes and Shacke packing cubes. The PD cube is a medium which is a bit of an odd size for my luggage. The Shacke fit great!!!. I replaced the zipper pulls on the Shacke though. I use both for what I think makes the best sense. I highly recommend them both.

  • @33Jenesis
    @33Jenesis 5 місяців тому +1

    I spend money on luggage, backpack, travel friendly wardrobe and footwear, and better charging cables. Strength, comfort, weight, and reliability are important for me when i am living off a suitcase when traveling.

  • @Chad-ee2ko
    @Chad-ee2ko 5 місяців тому +2

    Amazon has the VRURC 3-1 charger for 40% off. Got it for $24 before tax

  • @thomasd8735
    @thomasd8735 5 місяців тому +1

    Anker has a lifetime warranty. That alone makes it the go to cable for me. I’ve had two cables replaced to date.

  • @markdavidmagat9866
    @markdavidmagat9866 4 місяці тому

    Yall put it best multiple times by now, buy nice or buy twice! I'm a bit of a bag and tech nut, yall aren't helping with my addictions, and when I was young, I'd make countless trips back to the store to replace my broken earbuds or my broken backpack cause I would buy cheap (and I was a skater kid who thought he was immortal). But now that I'm an adult, I'M A BIG KID NOW, and have adult money, I splurged on a Peak Design Bag for my camera gear and a Timbuck 2 messanger for actaul everyday things and bought $250 headphones (thank god for holiday sales, got em for $100) and I've had these for years! Compared to when I was in the store every other week for earbuds and once a month and a half for a new bag? I think I saved more money now than back then!
    Also buying nice doesn't mean remorgiging. I still love wired earbuds but I spend now like $30 on a pair compared to the $10 back in the day and these sound a whole lot better, built like tanks and have replacable parts. If you're wondering what the earbuds are I use the KZ ZSN Pros!

  • @Beebee_1984
    @Beebee_1984 5 місяців тому +3

    You need long term reviews,how long do they last. Sometimes you can feel it although with electrical components such as the power bank, the cheaper batteries in the power bank usually won’t last as long.

  • @lolwu7718
    @lolwu7718 2 місяці тому

    I have a 3 in 1 cable. Android users so adapter for lightnight to usb 3. I can charge phone, hearing aids and camera batteries all at the same time.

  • @javyacuna4380
    @javyacuna4380 5 місяців тому +1

    I love your reviews. I wonder if there is any cool stuff you guys have bought or look to buy when you travel? Not just like fridge magnets and coins as souvenirs, in Mexico Wal Mart I bought some cool cable wrapping thingies that I still use.

  • @aderz8284
    @aderz8284 5 місяців тому

    The first video was good but this one is definitely better. The comparisons were much more fairer and useful in my opinion. Great series!

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  4 місяці тому

      Thanks for the feedback! 😃

  • @gazwj
    @gazwj 5 місяців тому +7

    We all saw that half edited out giggle after “if length is your concern..” 😂😂😂

  • @j_crust4582
    @j_crust4582 5 місяців тому +1

    Hey PH, can you take a look at the cipway compression bags? They're inspired by the eagle creek compression cubes and they come with ykk zipps according to the marketing.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll pass it along.

  • @aayotechnology
    @aayotechnology 4 місяці тому +1

    How can we decide if the less expensive item is worth it if you don’t give us the prices? 🤷‍♂️

  • @annelisabethcom
    @annelisabethcom 5 місяців тому

    A three in one cable would be totally useless. But I don't move around much when I travel. I will bring full length cables for dedicated chargers, but also a bunch of really short cables meant for use with power banks. I've got a selection in my tech pouch at any time anyway along with a small power bank.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for sharing your insights! 🤙

  • @AtlasPainkiller
    @AtlasPainkiller 5 місяців тому

    My brain just exploded, hearing Lauren say Satech-i, instead of sa-te-chi. It makes so much more sense.

  • @daisuke7110
    @daisuke7110 5 місяців тому +3

    Packing cubes is one thing I will not splurge, the cheap versions are good enough, mostly it will be inside your bag or luggage anyway
    Toiletries tubes though, I spend quite a bit, but bcoz I have skin condition and need to have then under 100ml bottles when I don't check in luggage, if you do not need carry special shampoo, lotions or soap, I think the cheapo stuff is good enough
    Luggage, travel bag and sling is worth the money spend though, if they break, it will be hell when you are on the road

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for sharing your insights! 🤙

  • @sailorbrite
    @sailorbrite 5 місяців тому +1

    I didn’t look up that particular cable but you should consider that some Anker Powerline cables have a lifetime warranty. Other Powerline cables have an 18-month warranty.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for sharing your insights! 🤙

  • @keithc4252
    @keithc4252 5 місяців тому

    Great video

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching! 😃

  • @robertashagam1599
    @robertashagam1599 5 місяців тому

    Rolling square looks and feels good but the connection in the iPhone disconnects if not on flat service unmoved. Anyone else have this experience?

  • @annelisabethcom
    @annelisabethcom 5 місяців тому

    I've got a selection of power banks. The Anker was in many ways a dud. I bought it because of the trickle charge. But it's charging soo slow and no PD. I have a cheapo smaller one that does trickle charge to some degree. Probably as well as Anker. I since got true 10k, 20k and 30k power banks that are true capacities and does PD both in and out. So much better to have fast charging big power bank. I also have a laptop power bank that I misplaced the charger for. But a Gan charger does it really fast, so who cares. Using a slow charger means charging all day, a Gan PD maybe an hour tops.

  • @katrinapineda6873
    @katrinapineda6873 5 місяців тому

    I love premium design but I'm a cheapskate at heart so my gear is a mix of both.
    I have a cheap packing cube that has held up but I might try somethibg more expensive for a specific size I'm looking for.
    I will never pay for expensive travel bottles. I love my Muji ones and find them reliable.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      What gear do you spend the money on, and what do you typically go for the cheap option on?

  • @tieshamayfield216
    @tieshamayfield216 3 місяці тому

    Please do an android charger/power bank!!!! Not everyone uses apple devices.

  • @itsmattaitken
    @itsmattaitken 5 місяців тому

    Cosmetics and bottles I feel can really be eliminated from your travel bag as most hotels are very accomodating.

  • @supergg07
    @supergg07 5 місяців тому

    I have a Samsonite carry-on that I love I still haven’t found that perfect backpack though
    I need one at least 35L to hold all my crap

    • @deborahpowell3454
      @deborahpowell3454 5 місяців тому

      I see where Pacsafe has a new 34 and 44 litre. I’m a Pacsafe fan because of the security features.

  • @underground538
    @underground538 5 місяців тому

    No way you threw the gotoob and it
    Didn’t break, I’ve had no less than 5 of those break in 3 different countries all from falling once in the shower

  • @MikeHoncho884
    @MikeHoncho884 5 місяців тому

    I’m looking to travel all over Southeast Asia.
    Can you guys recommend a video or recommend a bag that would be a sling bag with a theft deterrent strap? That’s kind of cut proof? Also it Has to be the right size not too bulky.
    Just big enough to carry passport in a hidden pocket maybe and sunscreen daily and a 💩 kit. With just a little bit of extra room for daily essentials.
    And that doesn’t look like a woman’s purse. Not looking for cheap looking for quality.
    Thanks in advance 👍

    • @TheMagicalHuy
      @TheMagicalHuy 5 місяців тому +3

      Search up 'Why these are, by far, the 3 best travel slings' by Maurice Moves

    • @cybermaru
      @cybermaru 5 місяців тому +1

      pacsafe citysafe cx in black has all the features you want

  • @wandaesch7314
    @wandaesch7314 5 місяців тому

    Personally I prefer paying more once for quality instead of lower quality to have to replace and send more stuff to the landfill

  • @whyurlapsmellsgood69
    @whyurlapsmellsgood69 5 місяців тому

    Chafon makes a 3in1 cable that’s better than both!

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll pass it along.

  • @iamsemjaza
    @iamsemjaza 4 місяці тому

    No. USB-A is not becoming "less relevant."

  • @amirleokim3620
    @amirleokim3620 3 місяці тому

    I never save my money to my bag and especially electronics

  • @JasonSelf123
    @JasonSelf123 5 місяців тому

    Qi is pronounced “chee” fyi. Love the videos!

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Thanks for watching! 😃

  • @houserhythm
    @houserhythm 5 місяців тому

    What do you guys still use that’s not USB-C? My iPhone was the last thing that wasn’t using it and I got the 15 just to have everything C.
    Camera, laptop, iPad, power bank, headphones, head lamp, flash drive, external HDD… everything is USB-C, I literally don’t have any other port left in my digital life. Ok, there’s the Apple Watch, but that’s never getting a port anyway and it charges on my power bank.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 місяців тому

      Some headphones and flashlights are still Micro-USB!

  • @jennabeam9686
    @jennabeam9686 5 місяців тому

    Missing the music you used to put in your vids.

  • @jonevansauthor
    @jonevansauthor 5 місяців тому +1

    That Anker cable is rubbish now because your USB-C cable carries more power to your phone, tablet and laptop than it can handle. It cannot supply enough power for your laptop because it's restricted to USB 2.0/Lightning capabilities. So, if you have one already fine, but buying one now is unlikely to be smart. Plus, you can get adapters that do the same thing, and just take one or two proper USB-C cables (if you want a long one and a short one and are really tight for space). All devices either already use USB-C or are about to, because the EU is doing a good job civilising the world over the objections of evil corporations like Apple and err... yeah really it's just Apple that's been seriously holding us back, everyone else was already moving to Type-C voluntarily because it's superior in every way. The only exception I have left is my Fitbit, but realistically I should switch to basically any company that doesn't restrict me to a proprietary charger, it's disgusting that this thing even exists but Google really did slow down their development and reduce their quality. Same problem with your Apple watch off course (and probably Samsung - I'm sure someone makes a proper Type-C device).

  • @zerocarbdoc
    @zerocarbdoc 5 місяців тому

    Tom???

  • @K-Kratos
    @K-Kratos 5 місяців тому +1

    Expensive is the best
    It last for years

    • @Beebee_1984
      @Beebee_1984 5 місяців тому

      I notice its durability. A cord will charge the same no matter what price it is but the premium one usually lasts longer

    • @JustJessee
      @JustJessee 5 місяців тому +1

      "Expensive" does not always mean "quality". More often than not you're paying for branding.

    • @Beebee_1984
      @Beebee_1984 5 місяців тому +1

      the brand which has an R and D department which makes sure the components are hard wearing and last. sometimes brands fail but more often than not it’s the no name brand that doesn’t care about its long term reputation. I think this is an excuse for you just being cheap @@JustJessee

    • @peggywoods4327
      @peggywoods4327 5 місяців тому

      That is an extremely broad statement that is not 100% correct.

    • @Beebee_1984
      @Beebee_1984 5 місяців тому +1

      @@peggywoods4327 Yeah cheap and nasty came out of nowhere

  • @keithbanks5757
    @keithbanks5757 5 місяців тому +4

    Oh dear, you've gone back to the Apple world.
    In the US IOS is just king, worldwide it's a totally different picture around 75% to 25% in favour of Android. You are just limiting your worldwide audience.
    Other than that keep up the good work.

    • @jonevansauthor
      @jonevansauthor 5 місяців тому +2

      Yup. If you are an Apple customer, frankly you don't need to save money on any of these items because you're used to paying over the odds for terrible design and technology that serves them not you and is hideously out of date and you don't care about saving money or paying a fair price in the slightest having gone completely value blind.

    • @peggywoods4327
      @peggywoods4327 5 місяців тому

      I love my unlocked android phone! So easy to change Sims when I travel.

    • @C4LCH3X4SS
      @C4LCH3X4SS 5 місяців тому

      Why is it always the Android fanboys crying in the comments, we really don't care what phone you use, you guys really suffer from an inferiority complex

    • @keithbanks5757
      @keithbanks5757 5 місяців тому +1

      No, it's about professionalism PH should cater for the whole world and the whole gambit of products. Away from the US there's not this warfare with Apple in the red corner and Android in the blue. There's plenty of space for all.
      Take care.

    • @peggywoods4327
      @peggywoods4327 5 місяців тому

      Au contraire, mon ami! I clearly stated I am happy with my Android. If I am crying, then they are tears of joy! My monthly phone bill is roughly $6.57, so I actually feel a bit smug and superior. No typos, I pay less than seven dollars per month for phone service. I buy a Sim card before I travel and plop it in when I arrive. I've been using Orange Zen the last two trips. You get a French phone number and it's good all over Europe and UK.

  • @MichelleDiana
    @MichelleDiana 5 місяців тому +2

    I must try peak packing cubes😅🪡🧳

    • @onecleangti
      @onecleangti 5 місяців тому +1

      They’re great. I replaced the knock off tripped with them and couldn’t be more happy. They actually fit the carry on size instead of lumping up