Camping and Backpacking GEAR thread

I picked up the NPS centennial Osprey Kestrel 32 pack this week at REI. I got the m/l size based on my measured torso length, and it's perfect. It's my new weekend pack, especially when I'm hammock camping. I tested it at the store with 25# of their pack test pillows and the volume is perfect and the weight distribution was fine. I'll likely never have more than 20# in it, ever.

While there, I stumbled across the lighter weight polysil 10L Sea to Summit bucket. I use the old version on every backpacking trip to was dishes, haul water, do laundry, and give myself a trail bath. I've even used it as a throw bucket with paracord tied to the handles to get water from a slot canyon where I couldn't reach the water. Finding the newer model at 1/3 of the weight and packed size was a score in my book. I had to have it. Did a field test with it in the back yard because some reviews claimed that it was too flimsy and wouldn't free-stand when full. I had absolutely no issues with it at all.

Old sink: 4.4oz, nylon
New sink: 1.7oz, siliconized nylon


Old reliable on the left. Still a great bucket.


Measurable difference


Same volume as the other, and no issues having it perform just like the old one. No twisting or kinking of the top rim, as some reviewers had claimed was their major gripe.

 

Nice bucket! You selling the old one?

I had one many moons ago. Moved on from it, now thinking I need one... For car camping.

I have a sil water bag that I love! But it's for backpacking only.

 

I think I'll keep the old one for truck camping. It's my whore bath basin

 

I have had my eye on that pack, Seabass, I just need something larger. Good pickup though. And I like that bucket!

 

I am looking for a pack like this, how does the camera fit in the pocket if i had a longer lens on? Nex6 with 55-210 lens.

 

With a mirrorless setup that small you won't have any issues. The 200 is made for smaller cameras, and the 300 is for the big full-size DSLRs.

 

Thanks, I watched their video on the site but they didn't really say much about how large the compartment was. Guess i should snag one.

 

It's great as a second pack, for those shorter trips and weekenders. I have it packed right now for this weekend for a 3 day / 2 night hike down into a wooded canyon. It has my full hammock setup, underquilt, top quilt, clothes bag for the evening/morning chill, cook set, first aid, headlamp, full water kit, and a few other necessities. I still have a couple liters of open space at the top and it keeps me under 20#.

My 65L Osprey Atmos AG is my primary pack for longer trips.

 

True. Ideally I would like two more packs. A 35L or so and a 50L or so.

 

Also, if you're a Costco member or know someone who is, the $20 down throws are back!

They're 70"x60" and pretty awesome for $20.

I got a gray one. They would pack smaller than shown in a compression sack.

 

What's the down fill??

 

"700". Who knows if that's really true but it's supposed to be good to 50 degrees or so, though I'm tall so that probably isn't true for me haha.

 

I'm glad and surprised it was listed. Sounds like a bargain!

 

Dang I with I had a Costco. I want to make an under quilt for a hammock from one of those.

 

Anyone have a link I could order one from, or do I have to be a member?

 

You can buy on Amazon for over double the price haha. I actually got mine from someone on a Facebook group that bought them and sold at cost to others. I'd do the same if I was still a member!

Double Black Diamond Packable Down Throw - Ultra Light 60 Inch X 70 Inch, Stuff Sack Included (Navy Blue)

Double Black Diamond Packable Down Throw - Ultra Light 60" X 70", Stuff Sack Included (Navy Blue)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015D47MVW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_yo9UxbCTAZG44

 

Yeah, I'm actually looking at that very ad right now.

 

I use the Atmos too. Good for weekend camping. Holds up well for how light it is. Usually just take a jetboil, food, water filter, hammock, first aid, etc. Found some nice 10 ounce compressible flasks that fit in the side pocket nicely. Never thought I would be flyfishing a mountain lake, catch fish and then filter water out of it too. So many areas to see.

 

Hey, @Both Tacos, did you end up hitting Zion? I know it'll just make me homesick, but you should post up some pics if you did!