Blog

Bargain Bin Ultralight Gear: What to Expect and How to Shop

Learn what to look for in Zpacks' Bargain Bin, from discounted tents to clearance clothing. We explain the trade-offs, share decision rules, and help ...

How to Attach the Front Utility Pack to Your Backpack

Learn how to quickly attach the Zpacks Front Utility Pack to your backpack waist belt for easy access to phone, snacks, and gear on the trail.

Zip Together Sleeping Bags vs Twin Quilt: Which for Couples?

Compare Zpacks Zip Together Sleeping Bags and the 20F Twin Quilt for couples camping. Learn which offers better warmth, weight, and versatility for yo...

How to Set Up a Flat Tarp for Rainy Night Camping

Learn how to pitch a 7x9 flat tarp for rainy night camping. This step-by-step guide covers site selection, ridgeline tension, and storm pitch adjustme...

Arc Haul Ultra 70L vs 60L: Sizing Your Ultralight Pack

Compare the 70L and 60L Arc Haul Ultra backpacks to find the right volume for your thru-hike or week-long trip, with trade-offs on weight, capacity, a...

Zpacks Carbon Fiber vs Super Sonic Stakes: Which to Carry?

Compare Zpacks Carbon Fiber Tent Stakes and Super Sonic Stakes to find the right ultralight tent stakes for your backpacking trips.

Solo Quilt Strap: Snap vs Flat Clip Fit Guide

Learn the difference between snap and flat clip versions of Zpacks Replacement Solo Quilt Straps, and how to choose the right one for your quilt.

How to Choose a NeoAir Xlite NXT for Cold Trips

Learn what makes the NeoAir Xlite NXT a top ultralight cold-weather sleeping pad, and get clear rules to decide if it's right for your backpacking tri...

How to Choose an Ultralight Umbrella for Backpacking

Decide between an umbrella and a rain jacket, pick the right canopy and shaft, and carry it without snagging using a simple stuff sack.

Ultralight Hiking Pants vs Rain Pants: What to Wear on Trail

Hiking pants and rain pants solve different problems on trail. Learn when each earns its place in your ultralight clothing layering system, plus fit a...

Bikepacking With Ultralight Gear: Packing and Setup Basics

Learn how to pack and set up your bike for bikepacking with ultralight backpacking gear. Step-by-step guide covers frame bags, handlebar rolls, and sl...

Sleeping Bag Storage Sack vs Stuff Sack: Which to Use

A stuff sack is for the trail; a cotton storage sack is for home. Learn when each protects down loft, and how to store a down sleeping bag long term.