High Quality and AFFORDABLE Ultralight Loadout

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[sbz_]

I got into UL backpacking only a couple years ago and in that process I've watched probably a hundred "BUDGET UL GEAR LIST" videos. This is probably one of the best lists I've seen. A lot of the pieces (pack, stove, headlamp) are "legit" UL gear pieces that experienced backpackers actually include in their kit. The rest are actually good, quality pieces of gear, no "walmart gear" like you'll find in a lot of other budget lists. If I had a friend interested in UL backpacking, I'd probably tell them to copy this exact loadout.

[nessiehikes]

A good alternative for a lightweight pack is the REI Flash 55, I’ve used mine for a while. It weighs under 40 ounces, and costs $200. It sometimes goes on sale, and I think later this month REI has a 20% off coupon. It has a well padded hip belt, and it is fully framed with a roll top closure. Overall, a light pack with nice features!

[TH-spxw]

I’m amazed people still miss this one backpack. The Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight. It’s a framed pack in a 45 L and 60 L version. Both weigh under 2 lbs. the 45 L is $200 and the 60L is $215. Hard to beat.

[lhoward]

Outdoor Vitals - SHADOWLIGHT ULTRALIGHT BACKPACK $200 and 45l

[brittanypennington]

I watched this video a year or more ago, because I am interested in backpacking, and this was such a great overview of how to get into it in an affordable way! Really well done video.

I came back to this video today because I want to buy a cheap rain suit to wear when my kids play in the rain and I knew I remembered you had a cheap but durable enough option. Thanks!!

[gorsch]

Good call on the Lanshan Pro 1. Love mine. As for a pack, the Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight is 2lbs and just at $200. Actually, a lot of their gear is great, and half the price of the major names. Most my gear is Outdoor Vitals. Base weight is 11-13lbs depending on weather.

[kevinharding]

Some options:
Lanshan 2 (3 season - 4 season is available at the same price as the single skin Pro and virtually identical). Cheaper (US$158), double skin and comes seam sealed. Great tent !
Naturehike FC10 pad is excellent, 570g and US$65 (I have the Trekology Pad in Europe - I slept on it in a friend's lounge for 9 months when marooned in Vienna and was unable to get back to my residence in Shanghai - first one leaked, second one was great ... as was the customer service). I prefer the Naturehike though.
Also from Naturehike the semi-inflatable pillow is 320g and US$55 but it is far far far better than any of the many inflatables I've ever owned. Super comfortable.

[Jarrych]

Cascade Mountain Tech poles are a huge bang for the buck. Aluminum option for under $25 and carbon fiber for under $60. They sell parts to fix or maintain basically every component and they seem really solidly made so far. I even just got the aluminum ones for my 7 year old and they're easy enough to figure out for her. They're sturdy enough for a 230 lb adult (me) for all the usual ups and downs for semi-mountainous hiking, including hopping ruts, staying stable on a thick branch over deep mud, and dealing with sudden areas of loose soil.

[Kub]

Naturehike ultralight framed pack, $70. 45 and 65L. It's excellent for the money.

[JCrozier]

Solid breakdown. I definitely appreciate alternatives to the big big brands.

[fatmanfaffing]

I have a 1970s H Frame backpack in nylon with paracord ties that weighs 500g. Brilliant bit of kit and so retro. Gets lots of comments on the trail. I have a Teton Fox5200, great pack but 2kg heavier. Got a huge weight cut on my base load in one fell swoop! Best of all, the backpack was a gift from an old bloke who used it on the Hippy Trail from London to Australia via Afghanistan in 1972!

[memathews]

That's some good gear, I'm especially happy to see @sixmoondesigns on the list and that packs is a good transition into UL without losing the frame. And I like that SMD is local in Portland, Oregon, just like CNOC. I do think the 36-degree comfort on the quilt is a little too high for summer nights in the Oregon and Washington Cascades, but maybe just wear everything under the quilt on a cold night.

[jasonfrat]

I just came across your channel and I wanted to say that I'm really enjoying your videos. You and your content come off as genuine and I don't feel like there is some agenda being pushed. Your trip videos are refreshing and enjoyable to watch. Looking forward to more trip videos and gear advise.

[ManivanAdventures]

I highly suggest checking out the REI Flash 55 pack! It is only $200, but you can find it on sale often apparently. I just got mine for only $140! At just over 2.5 lbs (has a removable brain and hip belt pockets if you want to go even lighter), it is a framed pack and the features are great, especially the water bottle holders! So easy to reach your water with your pack on. I like it 10x more than my Osprey Atmos AG50!

Edit: I just wanted to add that the trekking pole storage system isn’t great, but I made my own stow on the go system, like on Osprey packs, very easily and it works flawlessly! Quick video on my channel 🤙🏼

[sheila]

Great stuff! I think it's wise to start cheaper, so once you use it for a while, you'll have a better idea of what to look for when you can afford to upgrade. I'm moving from car camping to backpacking...I need to replace everything. My husband would kill me if I spent $700 on an Ultralight tent. Love your advice; thank you for sharing with us.

[marcr.r]

A great alternative to the feather stone moondance is the Outdoor Vitals storm loft 30° quilt - at about 225 after tax without any coupons and weighs 18 oz

[bcloetta]

Great ideas! Like others, folks should look at Outdoor Vitals and Dan
Durston. Durston’s tents are more than the Lanshan and hard to come by, but worth every penny. Outdoor Vitals has excellent quilts at great prices.

[MrAlexDavid]

A pack I suggest you have a look at is the Montane trailblazer 44.

[natehoover]

I used Paria's Arches 2p which is "lanshan" like and it was seam sealed and like $150.

[stevescope]

Another vote for the Granite Gear Crown 2 backpack. Been using it for years, still my go to. It's better then packs twice its price. Keep an eye out for sales and promos on their website.