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How To Get a Backpack Zipper Unstuck

The humble zipper. Like many other inventions that are practically indispensable to our daily lives, we frequently overlook just how useful zippers are. That is, until they become stuck.

If your coat zipper starts playing up on the way to work, it’s annoying to say the least, but it’s not such a big deal. However, if you’re miles from civilization, the weather’s turning and you’re desperately wondering how to get a backpack zipper unstuck, the situation can seem pretty serious. Let’s take a look at what may cause zipper malfunctions and some of the easiest ways to get stuck zippers unstuck.

Why do Zippers Get Stuck?

Zippers are, by their very nature, the most fragile part of a backpack. Backpacks are increasingly made from strong, durable materials, reducing wear and tear and extending their lifespan. Although certain zippers may be stronger and more reliable than others, the mechanism remains the same, and where there’s a possibility of things going wrong, that possibility often becomes a reality.

Zippers are made up of a series of interlocking teeth on opposite side of the zipper tape. The slider, when pulled up or down, either locks the teeth together or forces them apart. While the zipper’s design allows for quick and easy opening and closing, it is often subjected to a variety of situations that are likely to cause malfunctions.

Common Zipper Problems

Common zipper problems often come down to faulty manufacturing, or a poor-quality product. With a top-end backpack, this is less likely to be the case. Zippers may also get stuck due to overstraining, trying to squeeze in that one extra piece of gear that just won’t fit while tugging hard on the slider pull. Over time this can deteriorate the regularity of the teeth’s alignment or the slider’s inner mechanism.

Aside from misalignment from straining, zippers, especially those used in hiking products, can get stuck because of dirt buildup. Small particles like sand, earth, dust, grit and bits of vegetation can clog up the inner mechanism leading to a malfunction resulting in slider and teeth distortion. Fabric from either side of the zipper can also become trapped with similar results.

Ways to Unstick a Stuck Backpack Zipper

If your backpack zipper is refusing to budge, as tempting as it may be to start pulling hard to release it, it’s important to stop and assess the situation. Is any of the surrounding fabric trapped? Was the zipper working fine up until now? Are you going to be relying on your backpack for the next few days?

Before possibly irrevocably breaking your backpack, taking the time to examine the problem can help to provide a solution.

Snagged Zippers

If the zipper is snagged on the surrounding fabric, gently try to reverse it. The more gently you can do this the less likely you are to cause any lasting damage. Sometimes a good deal of patience will be required, holding the trapped fabric a millimeter to the left or right can help to release the slider while slowly reversing it.

Trapped Dirt

If you can’t see any obvious reason for your backpack zipper to be stuck, it could be caused by a buildup of trapped dirt within the slider. Try blowing hard to get any loose particles out before they cause any further problems. Gently try to manipulate the zipper, stopping immediately if there’s any sign of it straining. You may want to try wetting or submerging the zipper area whilst gently jiggling it to remove any trapped dirt.

Other Scenarios

If the zipper is clean, there’s no trapped fabric (remember this could also be on the interior), then your zipper may be faulty. Some people recommend greasing zippers, and you could try it if you happen to have any kind of lubricant to hand. However, this can often be a bad idea as it can attract dirt and grit causing them to stick inside the zipper, making the problem worse, or creating a new one. However, this is a great last-ditch option and could save your backpack.

If your backpack zipper is well and truly broken you should consider your options and upcoming needs before breaking it further. If you’re going to be relying on your backpack for the next few days, you should consider cutting through from another internal compartment with a functioning external zipper if possible. This will maintain the integity and functionality of your backpack, enabling you to continue your hike with the least inconvenience.

If this isn’t possible, decide if you want to rip or cut open your backpack at the zipper opening and try to replace it later upon returning home, or if there’s another more convenient place to cut into your backpack. This opening should be created in a position where it would be easier to tie or somehow fasten shut for the rest of your hiking expedition.

Replacing and Mending Broken Zippers

It can be a waste to throw away a good backpack because of a broken zipper. Zippers themselves are relatively inexpensive and if you can’t fix the zipper yourself, you should be able to find a local company that can replace it for you.

If your zipper is faulty, you may be entitled to a new backpack under your manufacturer’s guarantee. In any case it’s often worth contacting them, you never know, they might at least offer you a discount even if the product itself wasn’t faulty.

How to Avoid Future Zipper Problems

Zipper problems often occur because of misuse, by taking good care of your zipper you will reduce the chances of it getting stuck and extend your backpack’s lifespan.

Helpful hints to keep your zipper from sticking:

Don’t overfill your backpack. Not only is it going to be heavy, trying to squeeze in extra items will strain the zipper. Plan before packing.
Always open the zipper fully when putting your stuff inside. You may just need to quickly slip a container in, but if the opening isn’t wide enough this will cause the teeth to tear apart and increase the likelihood of your zipper getting stuck in the future.
Don’t ever force your zipper, you will cause it to become (even more) stuck. If you’re not the patient type and you don’t urgently need access to your backpack contents, give it a few minutes and try again later.
Clean your zipper after every hike, especially in dirty conditions. Give your backpack a good shake out and wipe over in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Pay attention to the quality of zippers, their positioning and how well they function on future purchases. When possible try before you buy or ask questions online.

Conclusion

It’s not always easy to figure out how to get a backpack zipper unstuck, but a bit of patience and common sense can make all the difference and may save your backpack from unnecessary destruction. If not, you might just have to make the best of a bad situation and look forward to treating yourself to a new backpack, there are worse things that could happen 🙂

How to Set Up a Hammock: A Five-Minute Tutorial

If there’s one question among new hiking enthusiasts that folks are not sure of, it’s “How am I supposed to set up my new hammock?” There are over 100 different ways that on how to set up a hammock at home and camping sites, but learning the basics of safety, security, and comfort is the first step before you start to get creative.

With the help of this speedy five-minute tutorial, you’ll finally be able to say you know how to set up any hammock not only in record time, but without any confusion as well.

How to Set Up a Hammock Securely?

Step 1: Measuring Distance

It’s important that you first measure the distance between the two trees or posts that you want to use for the hammock, as this is not only going to let you know whether it’s long enough but also how much sag you’re able to adjust in the bottom of the hammock.

There are two ways that you can measure, and that is either with tape or with your own feet. For a faster setup, you can just take as many steps as necessary between the two ends to determine the distance. For the sake of this tutorial, let’s say you have 10-15 feet of space available to you.

Step 2: Tethering the Straps and Ropes

The next step will be to install the straps and ropes that are responsible for keeping your new hammock above the ground, and this is also where most novice installers might feel a little overwhelmed. In all reality, tethering the straps and ropes only takes two steps and a little bit of attentiveness.

First, you’re going to want to make sure that the straps are secured around a hefty branch or the trunk of the tree or solid posts. It’s recommended that you use the straps and not just the rope as it gives you extra resistance and it will also protect the bark on the tree.

Once your straps are in place, you can then thread the rope through the strap, making sure that you insert the non-looped end of the rope first. You will then bring the non-looped end of the rope through the loop and pull it slightly snug.

The next step is that before you completely tighten the rope, make sure that the straps are at shoulder height, as this prevents your hammock from touching the ground once you get into it and it will also make sure it’s not too high. You will then need to repeat step two for the other tree or post you’ll be tying your hammock to.

Step 3: Installing the Hammock

The vast majority of hammocks will either have a hook or a carabiner at each end which you will use to connect it to the ropes that you have just hung. If your hammock rope already has notches in it, all you have to do is hook the hammock into the notch. However, if you do not have preinstalled notches, you’re going to need to tie the rope through the hook or the carabiner with a very tight knot, ensuring that there isn’t any slippage or give.

Step 4: Climbing into the Hammock

The next step is when you’ll finally be able to test whether you learned how to set up a hammock correctly, or if you’re going to have to repeat the above steps again. If you find that the hammock isn’t as stable as you hoped it would be, don’t worry since all you have to do is either follow the previous steps to set it up again and take a look at the tips and tricks for setting up a hammock below.

To get into your hammock, you’re going to want to put your knee in the middle of the bottom curve, balancing on your other foot. You’ll also want to use both of your hands to keep the hammock stable so that you can lower yourself in face down. You can then roll yourself over (gently) until you are lying on your back.

The more often you get in and out of your hammock, the easier it’s going to be to use and eventually you’ll get to the point where you can teach other people how to get in safely.

What are Some Tips and Tricks for Setting Up a Hammock?

Now that you have a clear idea of how to set up your hammock, it’s important to take note of these tips and tricks that can make the process easier.

Tip 1: Finding the Ideal Height

If you’re having a little bit of extra trouble with trying to figure out how high your hammock should be off of the ground, you can boot up the internet and do a quick search for a hammock hang calculator. There are free browser-based apps that help you to find where you should affix your tree straps so your hammock can sway peacefully in the wind.

Tip 2: Angling the Suspension Rope

Once you have placed the straps and tethered the rope, for even more security while in the hammock, try angling the ropes to where they’re at a 30-degree angle from ground level. This will help eliminate any discomfort, give you the perfect amount of sag, and protect the integrity of your hammock over years of use.

Tip 3: Achieving a Deep Sag

If you’re worried about falling out of the hammock, it could be as a result of it being pitched too tightly, meaning that there’s little to no material left over to keep you protected. The deeper the sag of your hammock, the more material you’re going to have to make sure you’re not going to roll out at a minute’s notice. Also, sleeping diagonally can help prevent the likelihood of spinning out of the hammock as well.

Our Final Thoughts

As long as you have a little bit of patience and perseverance, hanging a hammock is as simple as one, two, three, especially once you get a lot of experience with using the one you have. At first, you’re bound to make a couple of mistakes, but as long as you follow this tutorial step by step, you’ll find that pitching your hammock is easier than you ever imagined, and it’s certainly something that you’ll be able to teach every member of your family to do.

Best Hiking Hammock: Our Top Picks for Outdoor Comfort

If you take the time to imagine a backyard oasis, you’re sure to think of a hammock, but there are plenty of other uses for these convenient pseudo-beds, especially when it comes to adventures in the outdoors. If you’re in the market for the best hiking hammock, you’re going to want to find a model that adapts to your type of hiking in order to experience the most outdoor comfort as possible. In this guide, we’ll review our top three picks for hiking hammocks and what they have to offer.

Best Hiking Hammocks: The Options

1. Legit Camping Double Hammock

If you’re someone who enjoys camping with a companion or even if you want a little bit of extra room at the end of a long day, the Legit Camping Double Hammock is the ideal piece of equipment. Designed to withstand up to 400 pounds, you’ll easily be able to relax at the end of your hike or if you’re interested in taking a quick break.

What makes the Legit Camping Double Hammock so innovative is its grab-n-go design that includes the hammock, a small sack, steel carabiners, tree-friendly straps, and a rope. Everything can easily be packed into the small sack so that the kit is readily available for whenever you need it.

Another feature you’re sure to appreciate is its easy-to-use design that is incredibly simple to setup and gives you more comfort than you would expect, especially as it’s constructed out of military-grade nylon for extra support.

Pros:

Comes equipped with all necessary hardware
The bag is attached to the hammock for easy storage.
Adaptable to many sized tree trunks
Comfortable, soft, and lightweight fabric with extra durability

Cons:

The rope may fray because of the rough carabiners.
Tree straps will stretch with heavier loads

Summary

The Legit Camping Double Hammock offers comfort and more than enough room for two people to sleep while out on the trail, but the closer the load on the hammock is to 400 pounds, the tree straps are likely to permanently stretch. With that being said, you will appreciate the versatility of the straps as they can be used separately for thinner tree trunks and used together for larger trunks.

All the hardware that you’ll need for setup is included with the hammock and can easily be stored in the carrying bag that is conveniently attached to the entire unit. Setting the Legit Camping Double Hammock is easier than you would expect, especially as a beginning hiker.

2. Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock

For optimal relaxation and the feeling of stability and safety, the Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock is another one of the best hiking hammock models designed for your rucksack or bug-out bag. The entire unit is constructed out of 210T parachute nylon which helps to add to its resilience without compromising comfort.

Unlike other hammocks, this unit is designed for one person since it is nine feet in length by four and a half feet wide. As an added benefit, it only weighs 16 ounces and can easily be stored, as it resembles the size of a grapefruit when packed.

Another phenomenal feature of the Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock is that it comes with two eight-foot ropes, giving you more than enough space to tie your bed up absolutely anywhere off-trail when you’re setting up camp.

Pros:

High-quality stitching without fraying
Extra material can be used for bug protection
Thin and breathable material yet strong and durable

Cons:

Might feel snug for people over 200 pounds
Instructions are difficult to follow for beginners

Summary

As an experienced hiker who has used a hammock before, you’ll love the Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock as it excels in comfort, durability, and reliability. On the opposite end of the spectrum, beginner hikers should try setting the hammock up a couple of times before heading out on the trails to make sure they thoroughly understand the setup instructions.

When compared to other hammocks on the market, this model makes it easier for larger and taller people to fit, but it’s not recommended for all individuals over six foot four and 200 pounds. In the event that you have extra material on the sides of the hammock, it can easily be pulled over your face for additional bug protection.

If you’re in the market for a compact, durable, and high-quality hammock with no signs of fraying, poor stitching, or loose strings, the Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock is a great option.

3. WoneNice Camping Hammock

Constructed out of parachute silk, the WoneNice Camping Hammock is a great choice for someone who is looking for a quick and easy hammock for weekend outdoor excursions or backyard relaxation. What sets this design apart from the rest is that it’s not only fast-drying and resistant to mildew, but it’s also incredibly breathable.

Aside from the parachute silk used on the body of the hammock, you’ll also have braided nylon rope with a special strengthened inner core that helps to keep the ropes as strong as possible, even with consistent setups and tear-downs. Also, the WoneNice Camping Hammock is specifically designed to be easy to carry with the help of the compression bag.

When it comes to hiking with people above 300 pounds, you’ll finally have a hammock that you can feel comfortable in as this model can hold up to 500 pounds in the sleeping section, 1100 pounds with the nylon rope, and 880 pounds with the galvanized steel carabiners.

Pros:

Comfortable and spacious for people over six feet tall
Triple-stitched seams make the material feel more secure
Easy to fit two children beside each other

Cons:

Doesn’t block the wind
Tension is poorly placed in the center of the hammock

Summary

The WoneNice Camping Hammock is one of the great hiking hammock models that your whole family can use and enjoy as it is not only great for short and tall adults but multiple children as well. Another feature that sets it apart from the competition is its heavy load-bearing capabilities, making it adaptable to every type of outdoor enthusiast.

The high-quality triple stitching and overall construction make it feel very sturdy and reliable, which is essential for first-time hikers who are setting up their camp. Also, it’s quite simple to install with the help of the included equipment, such as the tree straps and carabiners.

However, if you intend on using this hammock in cooler weather or a windy area, you’re going to need to rely on a sleeping bag or large blanket for additional warmth as the breathable material also lets plenty of wind through.

Our Final Recommendation

There’s a high probability that you’re going to use your hammock for more than hiking trips, which is why you need a versatile model that is adaptable to all types of weather and other outdoor conditions. The Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock is by far the best hammock on this list as it not only excels in build quality, but it also gives you a warm, comfortable, and safe environment to rest your head at the end of a long day.

It’s durable parachute nylon construction with rugged carabiners, and reliable tree straps give you a relaxing yet sturdy build that you can rely on and you won’t have to worry about being affected by cool winds once the sun sets. You’ll also appreciate how simple the hammock is to set up once you’ve used it a couple of times.

For a great family-friendly hammock that can be used for a wide variety of occasions, the Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock is the top-tier choice and recommendation for all outdoor enthusiasts.

Snugpak Chrysalis 3 Sleeping Bag Review

Today I wanted to take a closer look at a very functional sleeping bag I bought a while back, the Snugpak Chrysalis 3. I have used it out in the field numerous times now so thought a review might be useful if you're thinking of purchasing it.

The Snugpak Chrysalis 3 Sleeping Bag

Snugpak Chrysalis 3 Sleeping Bag, Ocean Blue

The Snugpak Chrysalis 3 Sleeping Bag is a basic but very functional sleeping bag, perfect for short backpacking trips. It comes with an excellent price tag which definitely won't break the bank!

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Summary

Brand and Model	The Snugpak Chrysalis 3 Sleeping Bag
Our Rating
Pros	Functional, comfortable and excellent value for money
Cons	If you need something more specific and specialized, there are better options out there, but more expensive of course
Best Uses	Short backpacking trips, general use for camping, etc.

Overview

As mentioned, a while back I was in the market for a new sleeping bag. My main priorities were function, comfort, size and price. I do backpack, but mainly over the summer. However, I needed my bag to be able to handle cooler temperatures for a mountain leader assessment I was doing in late October, so it needed to be able to cope comfortably with 23 degree F (-5C). I wasn’t expecting to be sleeping out in those specific temperatures, but definitely in and around 30 degrees (-1C).

As mentioned, I wanted function and comfort first and foremost. I also had pack-ability high on my list. That is, I needed a bag that would provide said function and comfort, but without it being too bulky, heavy and awkward to carry into the hills in my pack. To top all that off, in terms of requirements, I didn’t want to break the bank.

There are any number of super sleek and lightweight bags available out there, designed for use in very specific conditions e.g. very cold temperatures. However, that kind of functional capability comes at a cost and you can easily move into the realm of hundreds of dollars very quickly.

So, after some searching, with these requirements in mind, I came across the Snugpak Chrysalis 3 sleeping bag. It had reasonably good user experience reviews and on first view, looked to tick all of my boxes above. So, with that in mind, I bought it and have been using it for a while now. Let's take a closer look at it based on the category specific needs I had.

Function and Comfort

Obviously top of the list, I needed a bag that would be functional and do what it says it will. As already mentioned, I needed it to have a decent comfort rating, being able to comfortable handle 30 degrees (-1C)..

The Snugpak Chrysalis 3 has a comfort rating of 23 degrees F (-5C) / low 14 degrees (-10C), so it definitely met my needs. I approach this requirement in a basic way. If I need 30 degrees F (-1C) I will aim for a comfort rating, comfortably below that, so in this case I need 30 degrees F (-1C), I aimed for 23 degrees F (-5C), giving a decent cushion should I get caught out.

Note, I am referring to the comfort rating here, not the ‘low (aka ‘extreme’) rating. The low or extreme rating is meant to be the absolute maximum you can use the bag in, but I never operate from it. If you want to learn more about comfort, extreme ratings, etc. check out this post on the basic process of choosing a sleeping bag.

So, to conclude for this sub requirement, the Snugpak Chrysalis met my needs comfortably (no pun intended 🙂

Size and Packability

The next thing, in terms of function, which was important to me was size and packability. The listed weight is 1,600 grams / 56 oz. It does weigh in and around this. This range is not ideal to be honest, could do with being lower, but it worked well with my other gear when packed into my pack, falling below my overall max target weight for my bag.

The bag comes in a compaction sack, as shown in my one above, which is big enough. However, this works out fine when packing for a trip, as I utilize the grey tighten straps on the compaction sack, all around the sleeping bag pack to pull it down to as small a size as possible. This means it comes in and around a packsize of 21x21cm, when fully compressed. That is compact enough for me and falls comfortable within my capacity target for my pack.

In terms of size, it’s a one size fits all approach, so it should be good for most folks, as the bag extends out to 220 cms. I’m 6 feet tall, and it works great for me. The bag itself is a mummy bag, my personal preference for backpacking, so it is tapered at the bottom to minimize the space it needs. It’s shoulder width runs to 75 cms (87.5 cms with expander panel) and foot width runs to 32 cms.

The quilted top of the bag is tailored, pleated, and fitted with a drawcord so it pulls into shape, rather like a jacket hood. The bag is closed up with a zip, as shown in the image below, which is on the left hand side. It works well for me to date and I’ve had no issues with it.

In terms of material make-up, the outer fabric is Paratex Micro which is tough, lightweight, windproof and water repellent. Paratex Micro utilizes closely constructed fabric and is exceptionally hard wearing but still remains soft to the touch. The inner fabric is Paratex Light which is also lightweight, windproof, water repellent fabric which is also breathable and able to wick moisture away from source. In my experience of it, it’s soft on the skin and pleasant to touch.

The filling is Softie and Reflectatherm, Reflectatherm, and this metallized fabric is designed to retain heat and warmth. It's also a highly breathable material, which adds little to the weight or pack size. Softie, is the Snugpak brand name for their exclusive synthetic (Polyester) filling. It utilizes superfine yarns bound with special resins to produce a luxurious down like feel. It is created from staple yarns which mirror the compositions of natural insulation. In practice, I have found them effective, and I have felt very snug and warm when using the bag.

The bag also comes with a built in LED torch. This is a nice idea but not something I needed as I typically use my own headlamp. So, just from force of habit of using my headlamp, I haven’t ever used it in the field as such. It seems to work fine though.

Best Uses

Overall, the Snugpak Chrysalis 3 is perfect for short backpacking or camping trips. It will fit in a backpack and so it's easy to carry into the hills. Aside from that, it's a perfect extra sleeping cover for someone around the house, should you have an extra guest that needs to make use of your couch for example!

User Reviews

Based on various user reviews, as of the publishing date of this review, the Snugpak Chrysalis 3 Sleeping Bag averaged 4 stars out of 5 across various retailers, by my calculations. Great scoring, and the user reviews I read referenced the same plus points that I found, including value for money.

Our Rating: 4 (Out of 5)

Pros and Cons

Pros

Functional and Comfortable
Excellent price and value for money

Cons

Generic, so if you need anything special, there are better options out there

Snugpack Chrysalis 3 Features Summary

Outer Fabric: Paratex Micro
Inner Fabric: Paratex Light
Filling: Softie and Reflectatherm
Weight: 1600g including compression stuff sack
Left hand zip
Built-in LED torch
Expansion system adds 12.5 cms width if necessary
Clips shorten the bag from 220 cms to 175 cms
Mummy shape
Weight: 1600g (including stuff sack)
Shoulder width: 75 cms (87.5 cms with expander panel)
Foot width: 32 cms

Conclusion

If you’re planning to head off on a 6 week exhibition through the Amazon, the Snugpak Chrysalis 3 Sleeping Bag is probably not going to do the trick 🙂 However, if like me, you like a bit of backpacking across the year, mainly Spring to Autumn, in temperate climates, then the Snugpak Chrysalis 3 could be just the ticket.

It’s a basic but functional sleeping bag that won’t break the bank. It’s sturdy enough so you should get plenty of use out of it, so for $65.00, it’s hard to see how you can go wrong. An excellent and functional sleeping bag, that in my opinion offers great value for money.

If you’re completely new to buying a sleeping bag, remember to check out the article on how to select a sleeping bag. I hope you found this review of the Snugpak Chrysalis 3 Sleeping Bag useful, if you did, please like, share and comment!

What’s the Best Way to Pack a Tent for Backpacking?

A while back I did a post on what I take on a weekend backpacking trip and in that I referred to a simple tip on how I pack my tent which I thought I would expand on more here. I often see people when I am out backpacking with tents attached to the outside of their pack. There is nothing wrong with that per se, but there is, I think, a better way to pack and carry your tent for backpacking.

Now, this only really works for a one person tent or an efficient, in terms of size and bulk, two person tent. A Tent will typically come in a package like the one in the image below, pictured below is the Wild Country Zephyros 1 person tent.

This is oftentimes attached to the outside of a backpack as referenced above. Now, I even did that myself when I first started backpacking but I soon noticed that having it on the outside could lead to potential issues.

For example, walking through trees or bush growth, the tent on the outside can easily get snagged and pull you off balance. Not ideal with a heavy pack, especially if you’re going down or uphill over a tricky area of terrain. Definitely not the time for taking a tumble due to your pack being caught on a branch and knocking you off balance.

Ideally, you want your backpack to be as tight and streamlined, in terms of profile, to your body as possible. The simple reason for this is that enables more stability in terms of your center of gravity. If you have a tent hanging of the back of your backpack, it can mean more of an off balanced counter weight which can easily knock your center of gravity off should you have to manoeuvre quickly..

To avoid this, unpack the tent into it’s parts. Take the flysheet and groundsheet (oftentimes these will be one in the same) and stuff them down in the bottom of your backpack. When you backpack, setting up your tent is likely to be the last thing you do when you get to your desired camping location so you don’t need it before you get there, so sticking it into the bottom of your pack is perfect.

When you’ve done this, pack up the rest of your pack up with the rest of your gear. When that is done and dusted, take the other parts of your tent, typically a pole bag, peg bag and a basic repair kit, and stuff them down the sides of your pack alongside the rest of your gear.

Now you have all your tent nicely packed tightly away into your backpack with no need for an outside attachment. This will only help you in terms of stability by better supporting your center of gravity, and it will help prevent any snagging and the like with trees, bushes, etc.

You also have the added advantage of not carrying any needless tent packing bags which you have no real use for. I of course keep those at home to pack my tent away for storage in my house.

Conclusion

I hope you found this simple tip on the best way to pack a tent for backpacking useful. This is, in my opinion, the best and easiest way to pack a tent for backpacking. I prefer internal frame backpacks, so I am not a fan of having things hanging outside of my pack for the reasons outlined above.

Overall, in my opinion, it provides a more functional and easy way to hike while backpacking and ensures you don’t waste any precious space in your pack. I have found over the years that backpacking for me, is a consistent exercise in trying to pack less and less, so as to avoid carrying anything that has no specific purpose or function for me in the mountains.

Wild Country Zephyros 1 Person Tent Review

A while back I needed a new tent. I was looking for something I could take with me on hikes so my main requirement was for backpacking. If you’re new to buying a tent, check out the tent buying guide which covers a lot of things which you may wish to consider before zoning in on a specific type of tent.

Wild Country Zephyros 1 Person Tent

A decent three season, one person tent ideal for short backpacking trips, the Zephyros 1 is functional and easy to use.

Wild Country by Terra Nova Zephyros 1 Person Tent (Green)

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Summary

Brand and Model	Wild Country Zephyros 1 by Terra Nova
Our Rating
Pros	A functional 1 person 3 season tent at an affordable price; easy to set-up and use
Cons	Might not be the best option for hotter temperatures
Best Uses	Backpacking and weekend hiking trips

Overview

As mentioned above, I typically do a bit of camping throughout the year, but I would not class myself as a hardcore camper. So, I didn’t want to spend a fortune. With that in mind, it made sense that I was looking for a basic but functional one person tent. I started to research options and I eventually came across the Zephyros 1 and liked the look of it, and the price. It seemed to tick all the boxes.

The Zephyros 1, as already alluded to is a 1 person tent, so it sleeps 1 person. It’s 3 season, meaning that it is recommended to only be used between spring and Autumn, however I did use it in winter, see the picture below, and it was fine. It really depends on the severity of the winter climate you are using it in.

Overall, it has been a good buy for my needs. In this review, I will outline more detail about the Wild Country Zephyros 1 tent, the good, the bad and the ugly! Let’s take a closer look.

Space

In terms of space, it is comfortable to lie down in (I am 6 feet tall) with a bit of room remaining at the end of the tent. There is some space on the inside for putting some stuff into, both at the end, of your feet as you lie down, and at the side of the tent. The image below with my sleeping kit gives you an idea.

Not loads, but enough for my needs and much more may not be practical. I leave my backpack in the porch only taking in, what I need inside the tent, and there is adequate space.

Stability, Durability and Weather Protection

By now, I have used the Zephyros 1 in all types of weather from winter snow, to heavy rain and wind and I have been pleased with it. Overall it has performed well and held it's own in challenging conditions.

In terms of stability, the tent uses a main pole, image in the next section, made from 8.5mm superflex Alloy. This pole runs across the mid section of the tent as shown in the image below. The tent is secured using standard guy lines, which are reflective so very handy to spot in bad visibility at night for a headlamp, and pegs. I have found these to be functional and easy to use. Nothing out of the ordinary but it does what it says on the tin and works well.

The flysheet is made using Stormtex P4000mm FR … yes, very technical sounding 🙂 I won’t go into the details on that, I will only say that it works well. It has stood up well to any weather stress I have put it under. To get my mountain guide qualification, I had to camp out in pretty crappy conditions as part of the preparation and training, and so I did put it through its paces on several occasions.

The floor is made using Aqua Stop with a P6000mm rating. Again, I have found this has worked well to date. I have used the tent on snow and very wet ground, and combined with my air mattress, I was dry and comfortable.

The one criticism I have of the Zephyros 1 is the two small plastic poles, see image below, that come with the tent which are used to prop either end of the tent up. I have found these not to be very stable in tougher conditions. However, I have come to the broad conclusion that they are not really necessary for the tent to function well.

As mentioned, the tent is pitched using standard guy lines and pegs. The tent pegs are sturdy enough although you might need something to hammer them into tough ground, you can see I bent one of them on tough ground in the image below. You get twelve in total, ten are required to put the tent up and two are spare pegs which is always handy to have.

Ease of Use

The Zephyros 1 tent is easy to use. It is not a freestanding tent, so it employs one main tent pole (pictured below), guy lines, pegs and two small end poles to stay erect. However, it pitches the flysheet and inner at the same time as they are connected, which makes it very easy to work with.

The pole runs through a sleeve at the top across the whole mid section of the tent, as shown in the last section, and is held in using the eyelets on either side of the tent as shown below. It’s simple but effective but I haven’t managed to get the pole to bend beyond the first hole, too damn hard 🙂 to get it to sit in, although I have no need for that.

So all in all, the tent is easy to put up and if you’re not used to putting a tent up, you will soon figure out how. Check the video below for some further guidance on set-up. All in all, 5 minutes or less to put it up. As referenced above, the flysheet and the inner are attached so it is easy to to put the tent up quickly. When stretched out there is a comfortable distance between the flysheet and the inner but this can also be adjusted using the straps as shown in the image below.

Weight

The Zephyros tent listed weight is minimum weight of 1.41Kg (3Ib 2oz) and packed weight of 1.57kg (3Ib 7oz). I won’t argue with this except to day that when I pack a tent, I do not carry it in it’s normal packed form as shown in the image below. I take the bits out and stuff into my backpack, so only taking the bits that I need which minimises both weight and bulk.

Wild Country Zephyros 1 Tent in its Pack

Features

In truth, there aren’t many to write home about, but that is totally fine. The tent is expected to be basic and functional. The tent features a porch which I found easy enough to cook in from a sitting position in bad weather. As always, take caution when cooking in a tent … only ever do it when you have no other option. Ideally cook outside and well away from your tent. An errant spark from a stove could send a tent into a ball of flames pretty quickly.

The zips in the Zephyros are all two way i.e. they can be moved in both directions, which is handy to have, and they work well. The outer doorway also has velcro patches on the entrance so the doorway can be rolled up and secured to leave the main entrance open. The outer door, as in the image below, is half mesh and is easy to open and close using the zips.

There is also mesh ventilation which works pretty well in the climate conditions I camp in, however I suspect the tent might be a bit warm if you’re camping in hot summer temperatures though. Something to consider I think. The tent also comes with an owners manual and a basic repair kit as well for any emergencies.

Best Uses

The Zephyros 1 is best suited for backpacking and any kind of camping where you need to camp out for a night or two with minimal fuss e.g. say on a fishing trip. It is easy to take a part and pack into a backpack. or just pack into the standard carry case that comes with it and throw it in your car.

It’s compact so not hard to store either while travelling or in your house. I think it is probably best suited to cooler temperate climates i.e. I think it could be a bit stuffy inside, in hotter and drier climates.

Customer Reviews

As of the date of this post, from about 10 user reviews I checked out, 71% gave the Zephyros 1, 3 stars (out of 5) or more, 57% 4 stars or more and 43% gave 5 stars. Respectable enough scoring but nothing I wouldn’t expect based on my own experience. I would give it a 3 star rating, as it does the basics of what it needs to do.

Our Rating 3 (Out of 5)

Pros and Cons

Pros

Affordable price
Easy to pack
Easy to assemble to use
Decent stability and weather protection

Cons

Not many features e.g. storage pockets etc.
Supporting end poles aren’t great
May be too warm for camping in hotter summer temperatures

Wild Country Zephyros 1 Features Summary

Season Rating Spec: 3 season backpacking
Free standing?: No (tent requires guy lines to be pitched)
Minimum Weight: 1.41Kg (3lb 2oz)
Packed Weight: 1.57Kg (3lb 7oz)
Pitch Time (estimate): 5 mins
Number of Porches: 1
Number of Doors: 1
Pitch Type: Fly and Inner pitch together
Pack size: 52cm x 14cm
Range: 3 Season Backpacking
Flysheet: Stormtex P4000mm FR
Floor: Aqua Stop P6000mm
Poles: 8.5mm Superflex Alloy
Pegs: 10 x Alloy V-Angle
Guylines: 4 x Black Reflective
Inner Door: Half Mesh

Conclusion

In conclusion, I think the Wild Country Zephyros 1 tent by Terra Nova is an OK buy for the price. It isn’t the best 1 person tent in the world, but it certainly isn’t the worst either. For my needs, weekend backpacking trips across the year, mainly in spring and summer, it has worked out fine and I am happy with it. There are most definitely better options out there though.

It’s easy to put up, which is always a winner while out on the hills on a tough day when you don’t want to faffing about in wind and rain, and covers all the basic requirements a one person tent should. As I mentioned at the start, if you’re totally new to tents, check out the tent buying guide before making a decision. It covers all the things you should consider before making a purchase.

I hope you found this review useful. If you’ve any questions about the Zephyros 1 tent, please leave them in the comments below and I’ll be happy to answer them if I can.

What Should I Pack for a 2 to 3 Day Backpacking Trip?

Typically most backpacking trips I do, are over the span of a weekend, so usually 1 to 2 nights, sometimes 3. Having done many of them over the years at this stage, I thought it would be useful to lay out some information with regards to what I typically pack for a 2 to 3 day backpacking trip of this kind.

I will try and split the various bits and pieces out into logical groupings to help make it clearer to follow. So if you’re unsure of a particular area, say food, you can just skip to that area to read up on it.

I’m going to preface this article by stating that when you start backpacking you need to develop a system. The system obviously needs to be adapted for varying locations, conditions, seasons, etc. We’ll explore that more below but ultimately, while most ‘systems’ will be similar, there will be nuance based on personal preferences.

Your overall backpacking system comprises of several smaller systems. So, you have a system for shelter, for sleeping, cooking, and so on. Breaking it down that way makes it easier to manage and map out what you think you need.

Shelter

Let’s start with the obvious one for backpacking, shelter. You of course must have shelter with you if you plan to stay out overnight in the wilderness. With that in mind I recommend a one or two person tent. A two person tent is a bit too much in my opinion but it is doable to carry for one person if it’s a sleek enough package. If you’re with a friend, you can always share the load by splitting it up between two people.

Now, you can of course choose an ultralight backpacking option, like a tarp and some kind of bivvy bag, if the conditions allow that. Personally, I always go with a one person tent, the one I am currently using is the Terra Nova Zephyros 1 Person Tent, you can see a picture of it in the field during my winter experiment below.

I like this as it is compact and lightweight (plus it didn’t break the bank). It’s a 3 season tent but I have used it in winter. I tried an experiment to see if a 3 season tent could be used in winter and it went fine. Of course, it all depends what type of winter weather you’re talking about! Our old friend common sense plays a part here as always!

As a tip, I pack my tent by removing all the packing and take only the tent pieces I need with me. I also stuff the tent down into the bottom of my backpack. This saves on space and makes it easier to carry.

As a final note, if you are new to buying a tent, check out the tent buying guide as well, it covers all the various shelter options that are available. Remember to get clear on the conditions of where you plan to camp, as that will have a big impact on what kind of tent you need.

Sleep System

Crucial to a successful night out under the stars, or clouds 🙂 , is of course, a good night’s sleep. As part of your overall backpacking system, you need a sleep system.

In brief, you need a suitable air mattress and pillow (a pillow is not necessary but I like to have one). I used to use a foam roll mat but my air mattress, pictured in it’s packed form below, is head and shoulders above it in terms of comfort.

Next up, a critical piece of your comfort and safety is your sleeping bag. You must have a suitable sleeping bag for the temperatures and conditions you are planning to camp in. This is critical, as finding out your bag isn’t going to work in the middle of the night in the wilderness, is not a recipe for a happy experience!

Check out the sleeping bag buying guide to learn more about how to choose an appropriate sleeping bag. The process is pretty straightforward when you know how. You may also want to consider a sleeping bag liner but I tend not to bother with that for a backpacking weekend. I use those for trips into the huts in places like the Alps.

Cooking

Cooking is of course the next thing you need to consider. I will look at food and water next but to help qualify this, I only ever heat food for main meals up while backpacking.

I use food in a bag that I just have to heat up. Very easy and efficient with minimal hassle. Anyway, I digress … in terms of cooking I bring a simple butane gas stove with me. I always bring an extra gas canister as well, just in case I run out.

It’s a good idea to check how full your existing gas canister is. This is usually very easily done by putting it into water to see how much it floats / sinks. The canister will usually have instructions on it, on how to do this.

I bring one basic but functional stainless steel pot with me and I use that for all my cooking. As I said I only ever heat things up in water so I have zero mess and no cleaning at the end.

I also tend to use the water I heat stuff up in e.g. for coffee, tea, etc. I also try to pack the cooker and whatever else I can squeeze into it, inside my cooking pot. This saves on packing space when getting your kit together.

As well as this, you need to bring a way to light the gas. Typically I pack a few lighters, I always bring spares just in case. Pack these in dry bags so they are functional in bad conditions when you need them. In fact as a rule, I typically put all my cooking gear into a dry bag, easier to keep it all together.

Finally, you need utensils to eat and drink with. Again, I aim for zero fuss and minimal packing weight so I bring only a suitable mug, a flask (can double as a mug) and a spork to eat with. I eat straight from the bag so I don’t need a container of any kind. If you do, I suggest eating straight from the pot as a plate is a needless extra in my opinion.

Ideally, cook away from your tent to avoid any major mishaps as tents can go up in an instant if they get an errant spark on them! If the weather is too bad, utilize the porch in your tent (Look for a functional porch when buying your tent) and be very careful if you cook while still in the tent!

Food and Water

Next up, you have to bring food and source water. As already alluded to, in terms of food, I only ever bring pre-cooked food that can be heated up in water. It’s easy to manage with zero fuss. The food available in these bags is actually really pretty tasty and I have been happy to eat it for a few days on the trot.

I don’t entertain any cooking that means I have to wash up for two reasons. First, I am lazy when it comes to this 🙂 and two, more importantly, it’s all about leave no trace and washing a dirty pot out will invariably leave bits of food lying about.

As well as this I bring easy carry food in wrappers for backpacking. Things like energy bars, chocolate bars, boiled sweets. Anything that is dry and in a wrapper. When I day hike I will take fruit with me but I don’t bother when I backpack on a weekend as it means there will be decomposing waste to carry out.

One of the things I like about backpacking is that your pack should be lighter on the way out, than on the way in. After you’ve ate your food and used some of your gas, you knock some weight down.

Be sure to pack your food and waste / empty bags away in a seal-able bag of some kind as the waft from them can attract animals and that is not ideal. In some cases, say if you have bears to consider, you may need a proper canister that will really stop any waft from getting out. Also, I always carry my waste with me. So, if I camp up for a night but then head out for a day hike the following day, I take all waste and all my food with me.

If you leave it behind and a smell gets out, it could easily to be too much of an attraction to animals, especially if you’re not around to dissuade them. You can easily come back to a ruined tent as animals try to get at the food inside. This is not good as not only will you possibly go hungry but you may not have a roof over your head for the night!

Water is of course critical. I source all my water in the mountains. I plan my camping location in advance so I am relatively close to a good water source.

I also do my research, and if it is OK to drink the water straight from the river (common in the UK and Ireland), I have no issue drinking it straight if the source is high up enough. You need to decide what is right for you though, as I have friends who would never do this and they always use a filtration method.

If the water is not safe to drink, you need a way to purify it. There are many ways to purify river water these days. I recommend a bit of experimentation to see what you prefer as there are many ways to do it.

Of course you then need a way to carry water. When I day hike, I prefer to use a hydration bladder to carry my drinking water. However, I don’t do this when I backpack for several reasons.

Firstly, if a bag full of water bursts inside your backpack, that is not going to be cool. You should utilize dry bags as much as you can but even with your stuff packed into them, something inside still could get soaked.

If a bladder burst or water seeped out through a hole, it would probably be a while before you realized as it is on your back and not directly in your view.

The first time you notice it is probably when you feel it on your back or legs and by that time, it is very possible that some of your stuff could be wet.

Think about if you had a down sleeping bag and it got drenched … D’oh! No warm and comfy nights sleep for you 🙂 Again, employing dry bags will help prevent this but it is still something to try and avoid.

On top of this, you have probably just lost all your drinking water. When I backpack, I always use water bottles. I tend to bring two, one 1 liter bottle and one 0.5 liter bottle. I place the 0.5 liter in a side pocket so I can access on the move without taking my pack off my back.

The 1 liter bottle is kept in my pack. I use it to refill my drinking water bottle should I need to, or to carry water to cook with. You should always try to camp close to a water source if possible so you can replenish your reserves as you need to.

Another good option which I use from time to time, is a water bag. These are just bags that you can fill up with water and leave near your tent, can be very handy to have to save multiple trips back and forth to the river. A hydration bladder can do this job fine as well.

Safety

By default, you should always have some safety gear with you. This should comprise of:

a first aid kit
an emergency blanket
your mobile phone and some extra charging capability
a bothy bag
map and compass (Carry a spare)
a headlamp (with spare batteries and ideally a spare headlamp)
and possibly a suitable hiking rope (only include a rope if you know how to use it and think there may be a viable need for it)

These are the main items to think about in terms of safety. Follow the links above to learn more about each specific item. Now, depending on where you camp, your safety equipment may need to be more extensive. For example, are there animals you need to potentially protect yourself from in the area you plan to camp in?

As well as this, before you ever set out on a backpacking trip, make sure you do proper research. For example, do you need a permit to go where you want to go? Is camping even allowed? What time of year is it and is it safe to camp in the conditions? What’s the weather forecast? Where are you going to camp? What’s your route to get there? Can you get in touch with emergency services from where you will be? Do you have the correct contact number? Is there mobile reception?

You should be very well versed in all of this and more in advance. In truth most of your safety work is done long before you ever set out. Anyone can be unfortunate and take a tumble, but good planning nearly always prevents problems long before they can get a chance to manifest and helps ensure you can deal with them if they do.

Clothing

It could be argued that clothing is part of your safety as the gear you wear and carry will have a major impact on the level of enjoyment you experience. Again, you need to be looking at the location, conditions, etc.to see what you need but as a general rule I take the items below.

Hiking Boots

It goes without saying, you should have good hiking boots or, if conditions allow, hiking shoes with you. I always go with sturdy backpacking boots, even in warm weather. Pictured below are my awesome Meindl Vacuum hiking boots!

The extra weight on my back means for me, that I want more stability in my feet and ankles, so I go with boots every time. Some people do hike in trail shoes but that isn’t for me. I prefer the traditional leather Alpine style boot but the more technical looking backpacking boots are an equally viable option and can sometimes be lighter.

Ensure your boots are well broken in and you have suitable insoles should you need them, again break them in before heading out on extended backpacking trip.

Underwear

I will wear one pair of hiking socks which generally will do me the whole weekend. If the weather is to be very wet, I will carry a spare pair of socks. It can be a good idea to always have a spare pair, even in good weather but sometimes I’ll skimp on this if the conditions are good.

I tend to just wear normal boxers when I backpack and like socks, if it’s going to be wet, I carry a spare pair for a weekend trip. However, these boxers are made of cotton which for me, in any other aspect of hiking gear, is a no-no.

For some reason I let it slide when it comes to my boxers. I have tried using Nike running boxers instead of the cotton but, oddly enough, they didn’t work well for backpacking and led to a bit of chaffing. This is something I need to look at some more but I haven’t had any major issues wearing cotton boxers in bad weather so that is most likely why I haven’t tried to change it too much.

My other gear and rain gear does the job well and so broadly speaking, my boxers stay dry enough. I also find if they’re a bit damp, if I sleep in them in my sleeping bag, they will dry up in no time from the heat inside the bag.

Base layers

You need a good base layer, even when the conditions are good, you should have one packed away. At colder times of year I wear one and carry a spare. Merino wool or synthetic is the order of the day here as you need good wicking capability for your base layers.

I prefer Merino when it’s cooler as it’s more snug and cosy on the skin. I think synthetic fiber base layers are maybe a better option in warmer weather as I tend to feel cooler in them. Whatever works best for you though.

I don’t bother with wearing baselayer leggings. I have them but even when I used them in Winter in the Alps, I found they were just far too warm for me.

If your legs get chilly though, they are an option. In saying that though, I pack them in as a spare at colder times of year as it’s handy way to add more heat while sleeping in a bag at night should you need it.

Mid layer

I will always wear a suitable hiking tee over my base layer top. Any synthetic running tee should do the job.

Although normally an outer layer I will add my pants into the mid layer section as I often wear rain gear over them. I wear hiking pants that are very breathable and ideally with venting options.

I like the more recent materials being utilized in hiking pants such as elastane mix. I find them very comfortable as they are stretchy and fit easily.

They also dry very quickly which is also something I look for. Hiking pants are a whole area in and of themselves, check out the hiking pants buying guide to learn more on what to look for.

Next up, over my tee, I will wear a fleece. If it’s a colder time of year I wear a heavier warmer one. If it’s warmer, I might wear a thinner one or none at all.

At all times I carry a micro fleece in my spare clothes bag for extra warmth as required. Again, you can use this as required e.g. over your base layer in your sleeping bag for extra warmth if that works.

Sometimes I carry an insulated jacket as well. They wrap up very small and they can be great for colder conditions. When you’re sitting about in your campsite, that extra warmth on top of a heavy fleece, tee and base layer can be just the ticket.

Outer layers

This is basically my rain gear. I carry rain pants and use them as I need to. Good rain pants are a very good investment indeed and I believe in paying a bit extra for good ones. You will more than get it back in terms of use as, depending where you are backpacking of course, you will get rained on! I also use them as an extra layer for warmth over my hiking pants and they can be an excellent wind stopper i.e. keeping windchill at bay.

The next critical piece of my outer gear set up, is a good rain jacket. I opt for the rain shell jacket option as they are lighter and easier to pack and carry. Your jacket needs to provide rain protection and breathability. Think Gore-tex or or other well known waterproof and breathable technologies. You can opt to carry a wind jacket but I don’t. I rely on my rain jacket to do that and keep the wind chill away.

Hats, gloves, etc.

I always carry a minimum of two hiking hats, one I have access to and one in my spares bag. These are usually beanies but in hotter times I wear and carry sunhats too.

I carry three pairs of gloves:

One lightweight acrylic with touch screen capability
One waterproof pair (debatable if they are actually waterproof but they retain heat when wet and that’s what I want)
A pair of ski gloves or mittens for warmth

Sometimes, if the weather might be chilly, I will take my neck gaiter with me. This is great for keeping the chill of my neck. Sometimes, I will pack a balaclava too as they are also excellent when you need to keep the head warm.

Hygiene

Not the most pleasant of things to talk about, but when you gotta go, you gotta go … and if you’re spending two to three days in the wilderness, you can rest assured that at some point, you will need to go 🙂

I won’t go into the details about what to do when nature calls in the wilderness but I will list out what I bring with me in for that purpose. I pack a trowel to dig a cat hole, tissues and baby wipes. You can use a lighter too to burn any used paper.

I don’t bother with a tooth brush, normally I just bring some chewing gum and that does me fine for a couple of days. For cleaning my hands and face, I use the baby wipes (any kind of hygienic skin wipe will do the job but baby wipes are easy to get).

Backpack

Last but most definitely not least, you can’t get very far on a backpacking trip without something to carry all this stuff in 🙂 With that in mind, you need a good backpack.

For a weekend trip I generally get away with a 53 liter bag (48+5) but aiming for a 60L to 65L bag is probably a good idea. It’s funny as although I prefer a bit more space, as I do more and more backpacking, I consistently try and carry less.

However, when starting out, you should probably aim for more space to get a chance to work your backpacking system first. After that, you can work out what needs to stay and what can go.

Miscellaneous

The core of what I carry is covered above but there can be miscellaneous items that I take with me from time to time. For example, if it’s sunny weather, I might pack some hiking sunglasses along.

I will often take gaiters with me too. They are great for wetter areas or if you’re hiking through shale and scree. Also, sometimes I will take walking poles, they can be really useful, especially when carrying a heavy load on your back over steep terrain. I don’t always take them though.

Conclusion

When I first started writing this article, I thought it would be a straightforward enough piece. However, it turned out to be a tad longer than I first thought lol 🙂

I hope you found the information here on what to pack for a 2 to 3 day backpacking trip useful. What I list here is how I go about my backpacking weekend trips so if you’re planning something similar, this should give you some good pointers if it is your first time.

I am sure I have may have missed one or two minor things but hopefully I have covered most of them.

While this is what I do at the minute, it is always an evolving process. As I get more gear, as gear gets better, as I learn more tricks, etc. I will continue to change and adapt how I go about this. It’s a never ending work in progress but the one common goal for me will always stay the same, namely less weight and more efficiency 🙂

Please feel free to ask me any questions in the comments below and if I can help clarify anything for you, I will be only too happy to do my best to do that.

Finally, if you found value in this, please share it around your networks!

Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus Mattress Review

The Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus mattress is an excellent mattress for camping and backpacking. In this review I explain my experience with the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus mattress and what I think is good about it.

I’ve been upping my camping activity over the last few months, it being summer it’s been good to get out. As a camper (I mean more like a backpacker carrying all your gear) I generally go out for 1 to 2 nights camping, adding in some nice hiking too of course.

There are of course numerous aspects you need to get right to have a comfortable nights camping. From getting your cooking equipment and food right, to having a good tent to keep the elements at bay and protect you during the night.

Another one of those key things is of course, your sleep system. In brief summary, what you take with you to ensure you have a good nights sleep. So your sleeping bag to keep you warm, your sleeping bag liner, etc. Another key component of your sleep system is what you sleep on.

Traditionally, I have went with the trusty camping roll mat. It’s basic, but it does the job. However, as I have camped more and more I have come to accept the fact that a foam roll mat, while certainly cheap, is not always cheerful 🙂

The last time I went out camping, I specifically went out hiking at night to practice night navigation. Although it was summer, the weather was not good in terms of ‘good weather’. It was wet and misty which although not good for lazing around in, it was perfect to add to a night navigation session.

Anyway, after trudging about in the dark for 3 hours, I finished up at 1:30am. It’s summer of course so I had to stay out late to get the full night in. When I got back to my tent I was tired and very wet. I got into my sleeping bag and thought I’d be out like a light. I was, for about 5 hours but I woke up early enough and every part of my body ached lol 🙂

It was not only the contortions of the previous nights activity, I also realized that I just had not had a comfortable nights sleep, as I have noted before, due to the foam roll mat. It’s basic and does a job, but I would not call it comfortable.

So, with that in mind, I decided it was time to look into the wonderful world of Thermarest sleeping pads / mattresses. These are a different beast to the basic foam mat. They usually inflate with air and can be mixed with a combination of internal foam which expands.

After looking around, I came across the Thermarest Pro Lite Plus and I liked the look of it. Let’s run through the features to give you a better idea.

Summary

The Thermarest Pro Lite Plus is a self inflating sleeping pad. It’s a well put together piece of kit and so far I have been impressed with it, certainly a world away from a roll mat!

It features a non-slip surface to help keep you in position on it during your slumber. It is a neat bit of kit that fits in my backpack and so is a welcome addition to my gear.

Size and Weight

As mentioned, there are several sizes available, from small to xtra-large. Depending on the size, you will of course have more or less weight and a larger or smaller size when in use and when packed into it’s carry case.

My one is the large and it comes in at 183 x 51 x 3.8 (cm’s). It’s a good size for me, I’m 6 feet tall and to give you an idea of size when rolled out, you can see me lying on it below.

In terms of carrying it, it’s fits down into a nice little 10 x 28 cm / 2.2 L package as pictured below.

This is definitely one of the main attractions for me. My foam Roll Mat, is bulky. Using this, I would estimate it takes up 40 to 50% less area / space. As it’s so compact when packed away, I can just pop it into a dry bag and store inside my backpack, or attach it to the outside of my pack. It’s much easier to move about, not as bulky and clunky as my foam mat … Happy days!

In terms of weight, it comes in at 670 grams. I think this is a good weight. Now, I did find options that are even lighter and more compact than this, but for my budget, this one fitted the bill well.

Comfort, Warmth and Durability

The outer of the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus Mattress is made from 70D nylon with an inner constructed using polyester which is a tough construction and by all accounts this pad is durable and so you should get good use out of it for the longer term.

The filling within the pad, the secret behind it’s self inflation, is urethane foam. As best as I understand the science behind how this works, the combination of air with the urethane foam enables a cushion of air to form between your body and the ground.

Not only is this very comfortable to lie and sleep on, but very practical in terms of heat retention i.e. keeping the cold of the ground away from your body. Thermarest pads are exceptionally effective at this and the Prolite Plus no different and is an excellent insulator from the ground.

Ease of Use

The Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus is self inflating. This is very easy to utilize. Basically, you just take the pad out of it’s carry bag …

And then roll it out.

As you open the mattress up and roll it out flat, the foam within the mattress expands as air gets into it.

So, basically, you roll the mat out, open the screw valve at the top of the pad and leave it for a bit!

It inflates itself, more or less, and you can top it up with a couple of puffs of air should you need to before closing the valve shut.

Easy peasy and I have to say very effective. It really is comfortable to lie on!

Packing Down and Carrying

To pack it down, you just open the valve at the top of the pad and roll the mat up squeezing the air out of it. you can use your body weight to help with this. I recommend doing this a couple of times to get all the air out of it.

When you have that done, simply roll it up snug …

and when you get it into a circular size and shape as in the picture below …

… put it back it it’s carry case which comes with the pad.

Again, I have found the dismantling process pretty easy. Be sure to get all the air out of the mattress or it could be a bit of a squeeze to stow it into it’s carry bag.

It’s compact when you do though and you can seal it nice and tight with the closure fitting at the top of the bag.

Storage

It’s worth adding a quick note on storage. This is clearly listed with the instructions that accompany the ProLite Plus but just for completeness I’ll mention it here.

To store the Thermarest ProLite Plus Mattress, you leave the mattress fully folded out leaving the valve open. You then store it in an upright position as shown in the photo below.

If you leave it in your carry case for extended periods of time, the urethane foam can get damaged and the mattress may not then inflate correctly. So, with that in mind, it is important to store it correctly.

Also, when you first get it, you need to inflate it fully and leave it overnight with the valve shut. I think this is like the initiation of the matress before use as such. Again, just check the instructions when you get the ProLite Plus or any other Thermarest mattress and follow them accordingly.

Customer Reviews

From about 40+ customer reviews from various retailers, the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus scored a very decent 4.5 stars out of 5. Of those reviews 92% gave 4 stars or more. Overall, a pretty good score by anyone’s standards.

From the qualitative experience and comments perspective, the general sentiment from users was positive so this did sway me to lean towards picking it and I am glad I did! I am pleased with the ProLite Plus and the positive comments I read about it before I got my hands on it has borne out.

Our Rating: 4.5

Price

It comes in between, approximately, $60 to $110, depending on size. I was pretty happy with the price for the quality I was getting so no complaints on that front from me.

Mine also came with a 2 year warranty which is nice to have. You may need to check on that if you choose to purchase one just to confirm as it may vary it different parts of the world. Check out the tab below for an up to date price on Amazon for the Thermarest Pro Lite Plus as well as some other good Thermarest mattress options.

Conclusion

If, like I was not too long ago, you’re still using a roll mat for your backpacking trips and hikes, I highly recommend the switch over to a sleeping pad like the Thermarest Prolite Plus.

They are significantly more comfortable in my opinion and much easier to carry than a basic foam mat. Granted, it is probably 10 times plus more expensive but I think it is a worthwhile investment in comfort that you are unlikely to regret.

I do have a hiking friend who just loves his old foam roll mat. He’s a hardened backpacker though so I am pretty sure he could sleep on the ground and still be pretty comfortable lol 🙂 Me on the other hand, I definitely lean towards that bit more comfort that the sleeping pad provides.

I think the Thermarest Prolite Plus Mattress is a good a year round sleeping pad that will perform well in Winter and in cooler locations in the world year round. It is probably best suited for short camping trips (1 to 3 nights) as opposed to long backpacking trips. For that, I think you probably want something that packs even smaller and probably even that bit lighter in terms of weight.

I am a big fan of the Thermarest Prolite Plus but there are many other sleeping pad options available. Be sure to get clear on where you plan to use your pad before buying. That is, if you’re planning to camp in Winter you probably need something that provides that bit more insulation.

I hope you found this review useful, please share and leave a comment if you did 🙂

Can You Use a 3 Season Tent In Winter?

Last week I wanted to head into the hills for a nights camping. I recently ordered a 3 season tent as I plan to do most of my camping from Spring to Autumn. However, although it was early March, the weather was bad with a particularly cold snap over the weekend when I wanted to go camping.

The plan was to head out on Friday afternoon and get to the campsite for 5:30pm enabling me to pitch and get organized before dark, see the selfie below as I was setting out … needed to wrap up warm lol 🙂

I had to hike about 6 km to get to the site. However, as mentioned, due to the cold snap there was a significant drop in temperatures the days running up to the camp and there was snow on the ground Friday morning.

I checked the weather forecast for the day and the temperatures were to drop to minus 5 degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit) but with wind chill it would feel more like minus 8.

Now, although it is March and Spring time, that to me is as cold as we’d normally get in Winter. So, with all this in mind I wasn’t sure if heading into minus 5 degree temperatures in snow and ice with a 3 season tent was a good idea or not.

So, as always, I got onto Google to try and do a bit of research on the subject. I couldn’t find too much on it but from what I did find it did seem like, unless going into seriously hard-core winter weather, a 3 season tent should be fine given some other things were in place, namely a very good sleeping bag.

So, after my research, I decided I would go ahead and continue with my planned camp with my 3 season tent even though the weather was very cold.

How I Got on

Well, overall, it went totally fine. It was very cold with snow and high winds but my tent, the Terra Nova Zephyros 1 Person Tent, pictured below, held up no problem. There were however a few other key things to mention.

As mentioned, before I went out I did some research on using a 3 season tent in winter conditions and overall it seemed fine to do this once in a while as long as the conditions weren’t really intense, and you had a very good sleeping bag.

Now, my current sleeping bag is the Vango Nitestar 250, pictured below. It’s a 3 season bag so I was a little bit concerned that given the conditions, it wouldn’t be appropriate to use with a 3 season tent. The minimum temperature listed is 0 degrees Celsius with minus 4 as the outer limit. With minus 5 on the agenda, I wasn’t sure this was a good idea.

I got in touch with a friend of mine who does a lot of winter camping and he told me I would be fine if I used a bivi bag in conjunction with the sleeping bag in the tent. I was happier with this potential set-up and figured it would be enough to keep me comfortable.

So, to summarize, my shelter and sleeping kit was:

3 season tent
Bivi Bag (Emergency)
3 season sleeping Bag
Cotton sleeping bag liner
Roll mat
Pillow (An insulated jacket rolled into its own pocket)

This worked great and I was warm and comfortable throughout the night, although having a hot flask of tea was very much needed when I got settled into the tent!

Important note: This was effectively an experiment. Please always ensure that the comfort rating temperature of your sleeping bag falls well within your requirements i.e. establish the temperature you will be camping out in and ensure that it falls well within the comfort rating.

The Result

So, I guess with that experience, I have answered the question for myself and that answer is, yes, you can use a 3 season tent in winter in certain conditions as long as you take other measures as listed above.

Fundamentally, I think if you are using a 3 season tent in winter, you should have a 4 season sleeping bag. I didn’t and used my 3 season bag but I compensated for that with the emergency bivi bag on the outside. However, even if I had the 4 season sleeping bag I would still utilize the bivi on the outside of it in that type of cold weather.

I feel it worked really well and would only provide more warmth and protection. The only slight downside was that the sleeping bag can get damp inside a basic emergency bivi. This could probably be helped with a few holes in the bivi but that may defeat the purpose of it’s proper use. All in all, it worked well though and I was warm.

In terms of shelter and protection, the best I can ascertain, the main difference between a 3 season tent and a 4 season tent is that 3 season has more ventilation and doesn’t line snug to the ground. This means that more air from outside can get into the tent environment and so, in winter, means it is colder in the tent.

I did notice a draft coming in along the bottom of the tent in places. In terms of protection, I think the tent is primarily there to protect you from the wind, rain, snow, etc. and it’s the sleeping system you have that does the rest e.g. keep you warm and as comfortable as possible.

The other thing that is worth noting is that I think using a 3 season in winter, every so often is probably fine. However, I think that if you were to use it regularly in winter, it would probably not hold up as well in terms of length of use.

That is fair enough though, as it is a 3 season my hunch is just that it isn’t meant for those type of tough winter conditions all the time.

Conclusion

So, the main question for this post was, can you use a 3 season tent in winter? I can confirm that the answer to that question is, yes, you can indeed! However, I say that with a few caveats.

First and foremost, if you’re going into hard-core winter weather for any length of time, you should have a 4 season tent that is able for the conditions you are hiking and camping in.

So, while a 3 season work’s fine, you of course need to take account of the camping conditions. If the conditions are too severe, you’re taking a risk using only a 3 season tent.

Secondly, what was definitely critical to all this working was the camping sleep system. If you plan to use a 3 season tent in winter conditions, you should use a 4 season sleeping bag that will keep you warmer in very cold conditions.

A good addition to that is to put your sleeping bag into a bivi bag for an added bit of protection. Finally, a sleeping bag liner will be good to have too.

I hope you found this article useful. If you plan to use a 3 season tent in the winter or in colder conditions, I highly recommend testing it out first.

For example, camp in winter in the type of bad conditions you are considering but keep close enough to your car first time out. Worst case, if something doesn’t work out, you can make a dash for the vehicle and stay protected in it for the evening.

My general feeling on all of this is as with any camping or backpacking trip, you need to develop a system, and trial and error in relative safety will go a long way to keeping you good in more remote regions.

Any thoughts or comments please leave them in the comments below!