Overnight Gear Test

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
May 22, 2026

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Blog Post:

If you have been watching my videos and reading my blog, then you know I have been trying to reduce my pack weight over the past few years. I finally got my shelter weight down to less than two pounds and got a warm weather quilt for the summer. Before I head out into the deep backcountry with this new gear, I decided to test it out in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at Backcountry Campsite #1 Cooper Road. This campsite is less than a mile in, so if something doesn't work, it is an easy bail.

- I stayed at backcountry campsite #1 for this gear test -

I will give you a rundown of this new shelter along with my initial thoughts, but keep in mind I have only used this setup once. After I get some more uses under my belt, I hope to revisit this equipment and give it a proper review.

AquaQuest 10x10 Guide Tarp:

• 
  115”L x 115”W
• Weight 1.3 pounds
• Material 40D Ripstop Nylon
• Price on Amazon as of 09/16/26 $129.99

I have been using an AquaQuest Defender 10x10 Tarp for quite some time now, which is a quite bit heavier coming in over 3 pounds, for about eight years now. It has been a workhorse, and I have never gotten wet once. I am expected, and hoping, for the same outcome with but with less weight to carry.

AquaQuest 10x10 Guide Tarp


Hyperlight Mountain Gear Bug Bivy:

• 
  Height at Head - 28”
• Height at Foot - 21”
• Width at Head - 24”
• Width at Foot - 18”
• Weight - 5.7 oz
• Material - Dyneema Composite Fabric 0.75 & NoSeeUm Mesh

I have never used a bivy setup before, but it had plenty of room for me to move around, and I felt pretty comfortable inside. It is a bit harder to get in and out of then my tent, and the real test will be when I have to setup the whole system using just trekking poles and not trees.

Hyperlight Mountain Gear Bug Bivy 


Get Out Gear Down Camping Blanket:

• 
  Weight - 1.1 pouinds
• Dimensions - 80”x54” | 77”x50” fully puffed | 5”x12” stuff sack
• Recommended Temperature - 40-60 degrees F.

I have also never used a quilt always opting for sleeping bags, but this was definitely a game changer. I was comfortable, I could toss and turn, and it was still really warm. I enjoyed this so much, I might spring for a cooler weather one for later in the cold seasons.

After I use the gear a little long, I might do a full gear review so check back from time to time. As always, my friends, hike on and stay safe out there.

Get Out Gear Down Camping Blanket