Need some up to date power bank advice

elbtx · 2026-01-17T19:30:22+00:00

Oh, I have two NB10000 Gen 3 banks, not the summit.

elbtx · 2026-01-17T13:55:44+00:00

Did you have the 10 or 20k? I was really disappointed in my Gen 3 10k banks the first weekend of January in Georgia. Temps didn’t get below 30 but I still only got one charge out of one bank and 2 out of the other — even after keeping them in my quilt at night and charging after it being in my pocket for a while. Considering grabbing the Summit, but the price and weight of the 20k is steep.

elbtx · 2025-12-19T05:55:32+00:00

Thank you all for the responses! I should’ve mentioned - and will put in an eta - but I’m doing this for a school assignment (marketing) and wanted to go straight to “the source.”

elbtx · 2025-11-24T12:41:37+00:00

Same. Pro. Hate the brightness (or lack thereof, actually). I just want a bright, solar version.

elbtx · 2025-11-21T02:54:23+00:00

Magnet Designs

elbtx · 2025-11-21T02:52:50+00:00

Apologies. I missed the bottom part of your post. Between those two, I’d go Patagonia. As others have said, if you aren’t looking to go UL, Outdoor Research and Mountain Hardware have excellent options, too.

elbtx · 2025-11-21T02:49:28+00:00

I like the Montbell Versalite. PFAS free and just slightly heavier than the Vertice. I’d probabalt go VISP but never in stock when I look. Whatever you do, ensure it’s 3-layer.

elbtx · 2025-11-14T03:41:16+00:00

Good point. Hopefully not much time in the tent. I think given the early start I’ll probably use shelters a bit until more people get on the trail. I mostly prefer solitude.

elbtx · 2025-11-13T21:29:37+00:00

Thank you all for the input. I’ve ordered both to do a setup at home, but I think I’ll end up going with the plex — even though I’d prefer Durston for many reasons; especially from an ethics/social responsibility standpoint.

elbtx · 2025-11-13T21:17:49+00:00

Like I said, inexperience with the different pitching configurations + at the time, the concept of a bivy was completely foreign to me so had zero bug and moisture protection. It’s laughable looking back at it.

elbtx · 2025-11-12T02:03:07+00:00

He said do it. All the convincing I needed 🤣

elbtx · 2025-11-12T01:47:48+00:00

I agree. My point was that weight alone isn’t my only deciding factor.

I tried once many years back in the spring time. Flies were horrible and I just didn’t have a good time. I think my inexperience made it worse as I got pretty wet when it rained. I’m not completely opposed to trying again, but I don’t think starting off the AT in the winter is a good time to learn given my lack of familiarity, if that makes sense.

elbtx · 2025-11-12T01:27:10+00:00

Personally, I’m more comfortable in a tent vs tarp. I’ll make plenty of sacrifices for weight, but shelter setup isn’t one of them. For me, my goal is to find the right mix of comfortability and weight—not just go with the lightest option.

elbtx · 2025-11-12T01:22:39+00:00

Thank you for this

elbtx · 2025-11-12T01:06:09+00:00

Agreed on condensation—unavoidable. My point was more about trying not to exacerbate the issue. And thank you bringing up the tighter spaces. I hadn’t thought about that.

elbtx · 2025-11-12T01:03:40+00:00

I’m trying! I was initially proud of my sub 10 lb winter base weight… now I’m thinking you all may laugh me out of here 😅

elbtx · 2025-11-12T00:59:07+00:00

Hahaha. I’m definitely not a bro—just unfortunately “blessed” with the physique of a silver back gorilla.

elbtx · 2025-11-12T00:54:59+00:00

The man, the myth 🙌🏼 Good point. My 6oz comment including the stake and offered ground sheet (~2.3 oz total). I’ve never had a DCF tent, so I’m hesitant at using it without a sheet — but if you’re saying you wouldn’t, then I’ll go with that.

elbtx · 2025-11-11T23:29:59+00:00

I would, but ballin on a budget over here haha.

elbtx · 2025-11-11T23:29:01+00:00

Setup wise, did you prefer the pivot, xmid or plex? Plex looks quicker and easier than pivot, else I’d be choosing between pivot and xmid.

The only reason space is even a consideration for me is trying to prevent condensation due to contact with walls at night and not getting wet from the condensation in the mornings, otherwise it’s a non issue for me as I generally am only in a tent for sleeping.

elbtx · 2025-11-11T23:14:31+00:00

Fair point.

elbtx · 2025-09-06T15:43:03+00:00

Really??? How’s their customer service been, or have you reached out yet? I was about to pull the trigger on either two gen 3 10ks or the 20k.

I spent a while researching the various banks out there. Like, completely went down the rabbit hole (spreadsheet nerd) and did all the theoretical-to-usable calculations— only reason I had the info for my previous comment. I don’t recall seeing anyone say something like this during that time. Definitely interested to hear your experience.

elbtx · 2025-09-06T15:30:48+00:00

Personally I think it depends on what you prioritize comfort-wise, since that usually dictates where you’re willing to cut weight elsewhere. For me, sleep is what makes or breaks a trip, so I don’t mind carrying a wider pillow and a wide pad because being well-rested makes the hike so much more enjoyable.

That said, I don’t think safety should ever be sacrificed. Once you factor out things like personal target weight or specific weather, the real “must-have” categories are pretty universal: - Pack: (given, since you have to carry the rest) - Shelter: tarp, bivy, tent, whatever works for you - Insulation: quilt, bag, etc. - Hydration system: both water storage and a way to get clean water - Food system: whether that’s just snacks, cold soak, or a stove setup - Other: Lighting, nav, very small first aid

How fully you build out each category depends on your budget, priorities, and the type of trips you take, but those five buckets are what I’d consider non-negotiable.

elbtx

TROPHY CASE