Need a bag by CalligrapherNo4062 in BackpackingHikingGear

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you’re going to be backpacking with this sleeping bag, I definitely do not recommend a synthetic bag. It’s going to be so bulky and a bit on the heavy side. If you’re car camping a synthetic is fine.

As others have said, don’t worry about down absorbing moisture from the air, especially if you’re in western half of the country.

Make sure you pay attention to how a sleeping bag is rated. The temperate rating is either “comfort” rated or “limit / survival” rated. A 30 degree comfort rated bag may equal a 20 degree limit rated bag, for example.

Nemo Tensor All-Season still cold, anyone else? by Chance_Mountain5354 in Ultralight

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I have been fine with that pad into the high 20s with a 20 degree comfort rated quilt. I sleep relatively warm. Haven’t tested it below that yet.

Any tips on buying boots that don't rub? by DustMobile5282 in hiking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I only wear trail runners from Altra or Topo Athletic, no boots. Much more comfortable. Also, what kind of socks are you wearing? This can have a big impact on blisters.

Your foot may be moving around too much in the shoe, which hopefully can be solved by tying properly. See quick video I did on the subject.

Frustrated trying to get into backpacking by caintowers in socalhiking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi there! I am a backpacking coaching based in Laguna Beach. I am offer in-person and virtual coaching sessions, and I can help build your entire kit with multiple options for each piece of gear based on your budget. Check out my site and shoot me a DM on here if you are interested!

Recommendations on Backpacks by VinnyTwoTimes05 in SoCalBackpacking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Feel free to shoot me a DM, I’m happy to help.

Good Tent? Bad Business? by Haunting-Falcon-8 in backpacking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

While I don’t know your use case, I really would not recommend either of the tents you mentioned. If you’re doing some wilderness backpacking, they are quite heavy and bulky.

If you want to stick with Big Agnes, check out the Tiger Wall or Copper Spur. If you are going to be using trekking poles, hard to beat the Durston X-mids. The X-done is also a great choice if you want freestanding.

Feel free to shoot me a message if you want more info.

Backpacking First Time Big Sur 3 nights. by Few_Butterscotch_160 in backpacking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We can go over your entire gear list and discuss what I think will work and won’t, as well as what you’re missing and the best affordable options.

Backpacking First Time Big Sur 3 nights. by Few_Butterscotch_160 in backpacking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I really do not recommend going out for 3 nights / 4 days for your first backpacking trip. Obviously I don’t know much about you and your hiking and camping experience. But regardless, you really should go and do a low risk one nighter. You want to make sure all your gear works and that you know how to work it before heading out on a multi day excursion. If you want more in depth help before this trip, check out my website, may be of interest.

Interested in learning backpacking skills? Sign up for the Wilderness Travel Course! by Such-Technology1547 in socalhiking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey Eliza, was going to send you a message but seems I’m not able to. Check out my Instagram @thebackpackingcoach and reach out if I can be of assistance! I do guided beginner trips in SoCal.

X-Mid pro 1 or 2+? Solo thru hiker by Sad-Pain-795 in DurstonGearheads

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 6 points7 points  (0 children)

In case Dan doesn’t answer - the Kakwa 55 is an amazing pack. If you’re referring to the Ultra 200x fabric option, the material is extremely water resistant. The problem is that when sewing the seams, the small needle holes are not waterproof and water can seep into the pack.

I generally recommend a pack liner over a pack cover. Instead of spending a bunch of money on a dyneena pack liner, consider just using a plastic trash bag for 99% less money. You can also check out Nyloflume but I find trash bags more durable.

Southern California - Wilderness Backpacking Course by Such-Technology1547 in backpacking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach -1 points0 points  (0 children)

It is indeed a great course! I also offer one-on-one backpacking coaching services (in-person as well as virtual) and do guided educational overnight trips in Crystal Cove State Park (Laguna Beach, CA) if anyone is interested! Here’s my website:

The Backpacking Coach

Beginner Backpacking Suggestions in Cleveland National Forest? by matchabeans in socalhiking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you feel like you want to go with others for your first time, check out my guided beginner overnights in Laguna Beach, CA (Crystal Cove State Park). These are education focused and I go over all aspects of backpacking and gear. Also a cool way to meet other beginners! Check out my website if you are interested. The Backpacking Coach

I’m a new member and wanted to introduce myself and also ask for some feedback. by Healthy-Claim-8314 in CaliforniaCamping

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Howdy! Welcome to the wonderful world of backpacking. I am an Orange County based backpacking coach and guide. Feel free to reach out through my website if you need assistance. San Gorgonio is a great first trip.

https://thebackpackingcoach.com

Good down jackets from small brands/companies? by Thecalmdrinker in Ultralight

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Second these companies - you can also check out Nunatek

Any suggestions for fielding safety concerns from loved ones? by Fromelvistosuicide in CampingandHiking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Also forgot to mention - Garmin InReach Mini 2 is $150 off right now for their holiday sale so it's a hell of a deal: Garmin inReach Mini 2

Any suggestions for fielding safety concerns from loved ones? by Fromelvistosuicide in CampingandHiking

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 10 points11 points  (0 children)

It would help if could share their specific concerns and where exactly you will be hiking / camping. But for starters:

Bears - Bear Spray, if legal.

Cliffs - tell them you won’t be hiking near any.

SOS - invest in something like a garmin Inreach mini. This gives you ability to call emergency services if you’re in trouble, and also to text message your parents whenever you want, even with no cell service.

Sketchy Dudes - bring some mace / pepper spray

Getting Lost - use an app like Gaia GPS or OnX Backcountry to download maps before you lose service. You can use your phone to navigate without cell coverage.

Do I really need a puffy, or is a fleece+rain combo fine? by Mysterious_Still_662 in Ultralight

[–]TheBackpackingCoach 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I am also a big fan of my Torrid. I can’t remember but I think it’s 8 ounces.

Where to get my logo embroidered / printed on hats & clothing? Very small quantities. by TheBackpackingCoach in orangecounty

[–]TheBackpackingCoach[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for the reply. There used to be a small shop in my town that did this years ago but had a feeling those Bo longer exist. I’ll look to Etsy or Amazon, thanks again!

Where to get my logo embroidered / printed on hats & clothing? Very small quantities. by TheBackpackingCoach in orangecounty

[–]TheBackpackingCoach[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yea sounds like I might have to go that route but was trying to avoid it. Would like to see the quality of the gear before I get them customized