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Everything in My Backpack 2022 | Gear List

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

Wanna know what’s in my backpack on long distance hikes in Ireland?

In this post, I will outline everything that I carry in my backpack on multi-day trails. These type of trips might include the Wicklow Way, Kerry Way or any long distance trail. It’s not recommended that you buy this gear (please do your own research) but I did choose these items based on a lot of personal use and first hand experience.

Disclaimer: Please note some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I appreciate your support!

Closer Look at My Gear List

Wild Country Coshee 1 Micro Tent

I’m taking a bit of a risk with this one. I feel my MSR tent is a bit big for “stealth camping” and the Vango Banshee is a little too bulky/heavy for my liking. Hours of research brought me to this so called “Micro Tent” by Terranova.

My Other Tent Back Home – Hubba Hubba NX 2

Sleeping Bag – Vango Cobra 400

The Vango Cobra 400 has a nylon shell that feels strong and water resistant. It packs down extremely small and offers a nice balance between weight and warmth. It’s a 700-fill goose down bag and ideal for the summer months. I am using this as my sleeping bag for the Ireland Way and will write a full review for this item at the end of my walk.

Sleeping Bag Liner – Sea to Summit Liner

This is my sleeping bag liner and I love it. A sleeping bag liner is useful for keeping this inside of my bag clean and because it’s much easier to wash a liner on trail as opposed to a sleeping bag. But the main reason I carry this item is because it offers extra warmth which I may or may not need on colder nights in the tent.

Sleeping Mat – Vango Thermatrek

I mostly carry a closed-cell sleeping mat for this trip instead of a self-inflatable mattress. It’s very light, quick to deploy and just about comfortable enough (for me). However, I’d much rather have this camp mattress instead.

Pillow – Trekology Camping Pillow

I really love this pillow. It weighs next to nothing and it’s reasonably comfortable.

I also wrote this post about the best camping pillows that you might want to check out.

Shoes, Socks & Hiking Poles

Altra Lone Peak All Weather Trail Runners

I like to wear trail runners in warmer/dry conditions but also here in Ireland. To be honest, even though they are “all weather”, they don’t offer the same protection from rain etc as a pair of hiking shoes. But because I walk such long distances, I choose to wear them. Also, these are perfect for walking the Camino!

Darn Tough Micro Crew Socks

I use 1000 Mile socks on occasion but I much prefer these hiking socks by Darn Tough. They are so durable, strong and comfortable. In my opinion, nothing comes close to these and believe me, I’ve tested a lot of hiking socks!

Hiking Poles – A200 Quick Adjustment Hiking Pole

I’ve been using hiking poles for years. Poles make so much sense and you will definitely appreciate them on a long distance walk. Hiking poles not only help with balance, they take pressure off the knees and can often be used to give yourself a push uphill or for stability to ease yourself down a steeper gradient. I bought two of these poles in Asia and gave them away recently but I’ll replace them soon.

Bum Bag – Waterfall Waist Pack

I use this bum bag by Waterfall which I have converted into a chest bag.

Head Torch – Actik Core by Petzl

I love this head torch by Petzl and have been using it for several years. If I was to recommend any other had lamp, it might be the Ledlenser MH5 head torch which I recently gave away on my Facebook page.

Water Filter – Lifestraw

I’ve used every type of water filter that I know about. They all work. I am currently using this lifestraw. FYI The Sawyer Squeeze is my all-time favourite water filtration device but don’t buy the “mini” version which takes forever to use.

Clothing in My Backpack for 2022

Insulated Black Puffy Jacket

Rain Jacket

Tresspass Black Fraser II – TP75

I’ve just bought this recently as my North Face Shell is a little old at this stage. This jacket is pretty light for a 3000mm waterproof rating and windproof aswell as having a nice sized hood which is something I look for with rain jackets.

Rain Trousers

I’m using an old pair of non-branded waterproof over trousers. They are heavier than the Mac-in-a-sac and not too tight. You really need to carry this item for hiking long distance trails in Ireland as it’s so important to stay as dry as possible.

Windproof Gloves

I’m going for a reasonably light pair of gloves on this trip because when it rains hard, I most often walk with my hands/gloves in my pockets. It’s also much easier to use your hands with these type of gloves. For instance, cooking or setting up the tent or taking out the camera for a quick snap of the foul weather!

Reebok Shorts

If it’s raining hard or especially cold, I add leggings and rain pants.

Karrimor Run Leggings

I use leggings on cold mornings/days and sometimes wear them to bed on especially cold nights.

Outdare T-Shirt

Outdare is my own outdoor clothing brand. It’s a nice breathable t-shirt that suits both active and leisure wear.

Outdare Sweater

It took me ages to decide between the Outdare hoodie and Outdare sweater. I went with the crew neck sweater because the cotton content makes it slightly warmer. You can support my trip/work by making a purchase on Outdare.ie.

Reebok Performance Underwear

I find these boxers feel much better on the skin while hiking. They also dry really fast after washing/getting wet.

Outdare Beanie

This is also a beanie from my outdoor clothing brand. Almost any beanie will do on the trail but I do ask that my followers help support what I do by keeping Outdare.ie in mind for sweaters, hoodies, beanies etc.

Outdare Morf / Snood

Great multipurpose item that can be used for covering the neck/face and also as a sweatband.

Cooking Gear

BRS Camping Stove (and Gas Cylinder)

MSR Ceramic Solo Pot

+ Misc Kitchen items: OYL Nordic Kuksa Cup, matches, pocketknife, cloth & Tito Titanium Long Handle Spork

Electronics

  • iPhone, iPad mini & TP Link 15600amp powerbank to charge my electronic.
  • USB charging cables & headphones.

Camera Gear

Here’s a post with a full list and information about my camera gear.

Other Miscellaneous Items

Thanks so much to the kind folk that have “bought me a coffee” as encouragement for sharing this info!

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Camino de SantiagoHiking

The Best Backpack for the Camino de Santiago

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

Looking for the best backpack for the Camino de Santiago?

I highly recommend you pick a backpack that was actually designed for hiking. Some backpacks might be the right size or quality but that doesn’t mean they are suitable for walking long distances – especially in warm weather. For instance, a backpack without any type of ventilation system in warm weather is sure to result in a sweaty and uncomfortable walk.

Just so you know, I have three other backpacks that I have used on the Camino (Osprey Exos, Osprey Farpoint & Airtrek 35). I’ve used them all without issues but if I was to choose one and only one backpack – it would be the one in this post.

I say this for the following reasons:

  • Feedback from other pilgrims I met on the Camino that had this backpack.
  • I’ve tried it on – both in store and on the Camino.
  • It’s very similar to one of my own backpacks but with a couple of nicer/better features.
  • The specifications are perfect for the camino in my opinion.
  • Osprey make great gear!

Fair enough? Let’s take a look at the backpack.

The Best Backpack for the Camino de Santiago

Most of the weight in a backpack lies on the hips and shoulders and this is why padded straps are needed. The back frame should be rigid and many newer backpacks have a ventilated system that allows air to move in behind the frame. 

You want a light backpack for the Camino and my personal opinion is the smaller the better. Think this bag will be on your back all day so only carry what is really necessary and try to have quick drying clothes that you can wash and wear overnight. As long as you trim down your Camino packing list, I recommend a backpack between 30L and 40L.

But do your own research to make sure this size is big enough for your packing list.

Let’s take a look at what I believe to be the best backpack for the Camino.

Osprey Talon 33 & Osprey Tempest 34

The Osprey Talon 33 has a close contact back system but the design makes it very breathable. The padded shoulder straps and hip belt bring comfort and support and there are two mesh pockets on the hip belt for small items. A stow-and-go system allows you to attach hiking poles and it’s also designed to store a water bladder system if you take one. 

The top pocket is great for small items (maybe valuables), while the twin pockets on the sides are ideal for water bottles and the mesh on the back can store things you might need to access quickly – I use it for my sun cream/rain-jacket.

Osprey Tempest 34

Osprey have also developed the Tempest 34 which is basically the same backpack designed for women. It shares all the same features with the Talon 33 but the big difference is that the back length is slightly shorter and the shoulders straps and hip belts are anatomically shaped for the female form to make sure that same comfort is there.

Best backpack for the Camino de Santiago for men – Osprey Talon 33

Best backpack for the Camino de Santiago for women – Osprey Tempest 34

PS. If you cannot afford the price tag of the above, maybe check out the Airtrek 35 which I used on the Camino last year.

Thank you for reading and as always, please make sure to do your own research instead of taking my word for it!

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Camino de SantiagoCamping

Themolite Sleeping Bag Liner Review

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

Most sleeping bags are rather expensive so it makes sense to extend their lifespan. A sleeping liner is a great way to do this because it protects the inside of the sleeping bag from any dirt etc that you may have picked up during the day!

While many hikers carry a silk liner, I think it better to use a liner that also provides extra warmth – for when you need it.

The Thermolite Reactor sleep liner by Sea to Summit is made of synthetic insulation. It’s designed to provide warmth and doesn’t compromise on weight. I personally care about the latter because I often hike long distances with a heavy backpack. The material is also very comfortable and offers a duvet-like feel which is soft on the skin.

The Thermolite Reactor liner claims to add 15°C to the warmth of the sleeping bag. It weighs 400g but the size is pretty small. You can wash this item instead of the sleeping bag and I don’t believe this has any negative effect on the fabric.

While I always take this item on camping trips, it was also useful on the Camino de Santiago. After all, when the weather is warm, it’s often nicer to use a sleep liner as opposed to a sleeping bag. Either way, the Thermolite Reactor Liner gets a thumbs up from me and I believe it strikes the ideal balance between weight, comfort and warmth.

Check out the Thermolite Reactor Sleep liner

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Hiking

My Favourite Shoe for Hiking Long Distances

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

I never wear hiking boots on long distances and always stick to “trail runners”. They might not offer the same support or protection as a boot but trail runners make so much more sense. Trail runners are far more comfortable than any boot and there’s a hundred more reasons why the vast majority of hikers on the Appalacian Trail or similar wear them.

By the way…

Hiking boots are designed to carry big loads and have more support that comes up above the ankles. They tend to be the most durable type of hiking footwear and have stiffer midsoles.

Trail Runners are designed to cater for a lot of foot rotation. They are made with reasonably strong material that can withstand abrasion and they are especially light which can be good for mid-long distance walking.

Hiking Shoes are low-cut and usually come with flexible midsoles and a balance between the features you might find with a hiking boot and trail runner.

Here’s why I love them so much…

Altra Lone Peak Trail 4.5 Low Mesh

  • They are the most comfortable walking show that I have ever worn.
  • The wide toe box helps prevent shoe rubbing on side of toes (blisters).
  • Ultralight and nowhere near as heavy as shoes/boots.
  • They feel quick and nimble in general.
  • Reasonable durable outer.
  • Insoles don’t last long but can be replaced.
  • Decent grip.
  • East to attach lightweight gaiters.

Thank you for reading!

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Camping

What Backpacking Tent Do I Recommend?

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

It’s really simple:

If you want an affordable tent that gets the job done, I recommend the Vango Banshee Pro 200.

But….

If you have the money and want something bigger/lighter, I suggest checking out the MSR Hubba Hubba NX2.

I have been equally impressed by the performance of both tents but the obvious difference is that one tent is much bigger and much lighter than the other – something that really matters on a long distance hike.

Why the Size and Weight of Your Tent Might Matter

The Vango Banshee would be ideal for a week long hike on the Wicklow Way. But the size and weight of a tent becomes more and more important over time. This is because you value living space more on a longer trip and the difference in weight is also something you will definitely notice over time which is why the MSR option can seem appealing.

Let’s be more specific. If you want to hike the Appalachian Trail or something similar, you will spend most of your time either hiking or eating and sleeping inside this tent. You will want to be able to spread out your belongings, sit upright and move around the tent and all of these things are not really possible with a Vango Banshee. So size matters!

I should also mention that size doesn’t just refer to the living space but also the size to which a tent packs down. For instance, the inside of a MSR Hubba Hubba is huge but the tent also packs down into a really small stuff sack bag.

Check out the MSR Hubba Hubba NX2

Check out the Vango Banshee Pro 200

PS. If you live in America, I also recommend the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 which is quite similar to the MSR above.

My Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 in the Mojave Desert (Pacific Crest Trail 2018)
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Camping

My Ultralight Camping Stove + Pot

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

I’ve used many camping stoves over the years. I really like the APG Stove (Jetboil) as it’s incredibly effective and even performs well in windy conditions. However, it’s slightly bigger and heavier than I would like for a long distance hike.

Every ounce of weight matters on a long walk which is why I decided to invest in a smaller and lighter cooking system.

While this is also an affordable option, I should say it’s not “the best camping stove” on the market but rather one that strikes a decent balance between cost, size, weight and practicality. Again, size and weight are everything for long hikes.

But what is this setup exactly?

My Ultralight Camping Stove Setup

BRS Ultralight Camping Stove

The BRS camping stove is made of titanium and folds down to an incredibly small size. It also weighs a measly 25 grams which is just a fraction of the weight that you might find with almost any other camping stove. It might not perform to the same standard as a jetboil or similar but honestly, it works just fine most of the time.

Measurements – 8.1 x 2.5 x 14 centimetres

Weight – 25 grams

But what’s the use in having an ultralight camping stove if you have a heavy pan or pot?

MSR Ceramic Solo Pot (1.3l)

I’ve been using the MSR Solo pot for maybe seven years or more. It’s in the same condition as when I bought it and the perfect size for cooking and boiling water for coffee etc. You can also fit a glass canister and more inside the pot which is really useful when it comes to saving on space and keeping everything organised in your backpack.

Measurements – 17.8 x 17.8 x 12.7 centimetres

Weight – Pot only: 170g Pot with lid: 207g

PS. I’m even going to leave the pot lid at home for extra weight savings because I never use it!

Total base weight – Stove + pot = 195 grams.

Final thoughts

I also recommend a lightweight titanium spork. The long handle is really handy for stirring or eating from a meal bag and they last a very long time. While you might not need to be as focused on weight, I cannot say this enough times – every ounce matters on a long distance hike! If you compare the total weight above (195g) to the weight of the APG stove I mentioned earlier (600g), you should also see the incredibly small and lightweight nature of this portable stove system.

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Camping

My Sleep System for Camping in Ireland

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

Are you looking for a reliable sleeping bag for camping in Ireland?

I’ve gone through a lot of camping gear over the years and in this post, I’d like to share my current sleep system.

It’s really important to stay warm on a camping trip. However, if you can afford the price tag, it always helps when your sleep system is small and lightweight and this is exactly how/why I decided on the following items…

My Sleeping Bag for Camping in Ireland

Vango Cobra 400

The Vango Cobra 400 is a 700-fill Goose Down sleeping bag with an unusual box-shaped design that gives it some extra loft. I like the shape around the head area, while the nylon shell feels durable and water-resistant. It’s also very light and packs down really small which is something I always think about when it comes to camping gear in Ireland.

My Sleep Liner for the Ireland Way

A sleeping bag liner is great for added insulation and can keep the inside of the actual sleeping bag clean. It’s much easier to wash a small sleep liner as opposed to a sleeping bag. And I’m a “cold sleeper” which means there might be nights on which my sleeping bag is not enough and I’ll be happy to have this small item in my backpack.

Buy the Sea to Summit Thermolite Sleep Liner

My Closed Cell Sleeping Mat

I used something similar to this model by Vango on previous hikes. They don’t offer the same level of comfort as an inflatable mattress but that’s something I’m okay with. This type of closed cell mattress is ultra-light and can be attached easily to the outside of any backpack. I also appreciate how quick and easy they are to setup.

Here’s some more info on the type of camping mattress I like to use.

One Last Thing – My Small Camping Pillow

I’m also using this small camping pillow by Gelert. However, it’s not one of the best camping pillows and I’m picking up something different soon.

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Hiking

What Hiking Socks do I Recommend?

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

I’ve gone through a lot of different brands of hiking socks over the years. Starting out, I didn’t pay much attention to socks and often hit the trail with a standard pair of sports socks. However, over long distances, it’s more and more obvious that a decent pair of hiking socks can make for a more comfortable walk, while reducing the risk of blisters.

1000 Mile Socks Versus Darn Tough Socks

Two years ago, I wore two different pairs of this exact pair of 1000 Mile socks on my walk around Ireland. They were light and breathable and notably comfortable. I didn’t have any issues with blisters but then I also had the right hiking shoes.

If I was to recommend a type of hiking sock, I would have to say either 1000 Mile or Darn Tough socks. 1000 Mile is very popular among hikers in the UK and Ireland and it’s possible to buy a twin-pack which is something I recommend.

Dark Tough is an American-based manufacturer that produces incredible merino wool hiking socks. They are the most popular hiking socks in America (to my knowledge) and I wore them for 6 months during my hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. You can pick up a pair of thin to medium cushion socks by Darn Tough here.

Thank you for reading and make sure to check out My Gear Section for more recommendations.

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Hiking

Here’s a Free Packing Checklist of Everything in My Backpack

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

I always write down a checklist on paper of everything I need before a trip. I’ve been reluctant to share this list for two reasons 1. It takes a time to write/upload and 2. I’m afraid that people will use this list without doing their own research.

Anyway, please keep that in mind about the following packing list. It’s completely free and I only ask that you sign up to my newsletter in return. I have yet to send one out (a newsletter) but might do in the near future.

Happy trails!

Derek

FREE Packing List? Just fill in your name and email below 🙂

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Hiking

How Do I Navigate on Hiking Trails in Ireland?

by Derek Cullen
written by Derek Cullen

You might remember that Hiiker was one of three sponsors on my walk around Ireland two years ago. They even came down to Kerry to show their support and shoot this interview. I was a little overwhelmed by the tribal feeling I got around these lads – Paul and Eoin from Hiiker and then Joe and Brian, the videographer/photographers.

As part of our arrangement, I was given full access to the Hiiker app – an app that helps you navigate hiking trails (including The Ireland Way) and many features that help you plan the trip. For instance, it marks the start and end of each section and indicates places to eat and where to sleep along the trail. It also pinpoints your exact location and you don’t need cell signal because these maps can be downloaded to your phone and used offline. The thing is, the app was undergoing a lot of work/upgrades back then and while I found it very good and useful, I was also using other maps to navigate.

Two Years Later: The Hiiker App Revisted

Roll on two years, I decided to download the Hiiker app once again and take a look…

The Hiiker app is so much faster and more effective than it was two years ago. The free version is an excellent tool for navigation (that you will use) but I paid for the upgraded version of “the Ireland Way” to see what more it has to offer.

In short, I’m just blown away by this app. I’ve used many of the best hiking trail apps in recent years such as Guthooks on the Pacific Crest Trail and the Hiiker app has not only closed the gap but seems to be taking a step up. Here’s why:

  • It’s so fast!
  • The features (incl the trails) are extremely easy to navigate.
  • They’ve gone to so much effort in terms of adding useful info such as places to shop, eat and sleep.
  • It has a specific utility that means it makes more sense to consult this app than any other online map.

You know what I think will make this even better?

People that walk long distance trails most often want to wild camp along the way. When users begin adding pins (co-ordinates) to mark reliable “wild camping spots” to each trail, this will give users so much peace-of-mind. While I don’t think the guys at Hiiker should do this themselves, it might be worth encouraging their users to do so.

But I’m sure this will happen in time.

Anyway…

The Hiiker app will be my primary tool for navigating the Ireland Way and I will write a full review at the end of the trail.

You can also download the app for free and check it out for yourself !

BTW I was not asked to write this post or use the Hiiker app and my opinion above is entirely honest and unbiased.

Brian Reilly-Troy, Eoin Hamilton, Me, Paul Finlay and Joe Ladrigan.
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