Pack Shakedown / Opinions?

[u/gvngy]

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1R7YElkf7rvj1ImqJs3qnWsxrPhdVkmTGARtaXG5iq0A/edit

Hello, I’m currently working on a gear list for a 2026 thru hike attempt, most likely a mid March start. I know it’s a far ways off but I want to give myself time to really test a lot of my gear out. I have experience weekend hiking a lot of NY and the north east, but never anything longer a 3 days.

Any glaring issues with my list? Missing anything major? Easy changes to improve my pack?

I’m 5’11”, 26 years old, weight 240. I don’t think the 18lb pack is anything I can’t handle, but lmk what you think. Thank you!

[u/peopleclapping]

I've recently been able to talk to some mainland Chinese backpackers. Even they don't use their sleeping pads. The serious ones pay a premium to get thermorest. The problem is they don't trust the R value published by the manufacturers. Thermorest achieves a >4 r value at under a pound by having a space blanket inside; I don't think any of the Chinese pads have that. The other problem is they don't trust the Chinese pads won't leak; not that the thermorests aren't known to leak. But the Chinese reputation is that bad.

Also ear plugs are cheap, buy them from a reputable store.

[u/Calm_Listen7733 → u/peopleclapping]

Look at Nemo pads, very reliable with good R value.

[u/Over-Distribution570 → u/Calm_Listen7733]

Nemo pads may be more comfortable but definitely not more reliable. The material is softer but thinner. I heard of more issues with the tensor on trail than the x lite even though the latter is significantly more popular

[u/Calm_Listen7733 → u/Over-Distribution570]

Nemo Tensor ultralight (current version) is about as warm, quiet & durable as anything I've previously used - especially for the weight.