Pack Liner vs Stuff Sack for Backpacking: Shocking Results

Comparing a pack liner to a compression sack for backpacking was a really worthwhile experiment. I’ve been backpacking for nearly 20 years and I still learned something from comparing these two methods. Support my channel - buy me a backcountry coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/megintheforest I don't accept sponsored gear or trips. I don't hawk courses. And I don't gatekeep information. My mission is to tell my story completely for free. This channel is completely funded by me. Of course, when it comes to a stuff sack or a pack liner, personal preference matters. But if you want your sleep system in the safest possible configuration, you may want to consider a few important elements: Waterproofing This is the MOST important aspect when choosing how to pack your sleeping bag for backpacking. And the results were a little surprising - even for me! Protection The one thing NO ONE commented on regarding a pack liner is protection. Although I didn’t test this method (sorry not sorry, I’m not trying to put holes in my expensive gear), I have HAD first hand experience with this. I used to use a pack liner and guess what? I got a hole in my bag while backpacking in the Adirondacks while using one! Packability This results for if a pack liner or a compression sack is easier to pack was a total SHOCKER to me! You all THINK you have it figured out, but it turns out, your assumptions are wrong. I tested this thoroughly, and the results will surprise you! (ya, you’ll have to watch to find out). Timing Okay, admittedly, this is a lazy person’s test. But it was the most intriguing comment I got on the short, so I put it to the test. This could be a deal breaker for you, but it wasn’t for me. Weight A LOT of people cite a pack liner for being lighter. But is the extra weight worth the peace of mind? Let’s find out! ✨ Recommended Gear: Sea to Summit Ultra Sil Compression Sak (20L): https://rei.pxf.io/JKv4ra More incredible gear I love: https://www.amazon.com/shop/megintheforest ✨ Follow me… Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Aforestfox/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@megintheforest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megintheforest/ ✨ Additional Resources ✨ The ULTIMATE backpacking checklist: https://bit.ly/COpackinglist #backpackinggear #backpacking #backpacker #outdoorgear #outdoorgearreview ✨Time stamps: 00:00 - intro 00:11 - You asked, I answered 02:28 - Testing a compression sack vs a pack liner for backpacking 00:48 - The backpacking gear I tested 01:15 - Test 1: Weight with SHOCKING results 02:39 - Test 2: Packability 03:14 - Packability of a pack liner while backpacking 04:45 - Packability of a compression sack for your sleeping bag head-to-head comparison 06:20 - Test 3: Packing speed for backpacking 07:33 - Test 4: Waterproof backpacking compression sack vs trash bag with unexpected results 09:53 - Backpacking with a compression sack vs a pack liner which is better?