Frequently Asked Questions
Bundles
Why bundles?
Getting into backpacking can be overwhelming and expensive. We want to eliminate both of those and get you into some high quality, ultra-lightweight gear that is ready to go. We love hitting the trail and want to get you out there too!
Does bundling really save that much?
Our bundles not only save you money, but also time. Each bundle comes assembled and packed in the backpack, so when it arrives at your door, you can grab it and hit the trail. Simply add in a few additional personal items, water, and any additional food or snacks. We include an erasable checklist within the bundle that shows exactly what is inside, so you can quickly and easily identify any additional items that you may need to still bring along.
Additionally, we have compared every product we offer within our bundles to comparable quality and weight specifications from major big box stores and have priced all the items to easily be half the price of these competitors. How can we do this? Most of the items in the bundle are our own branded products. Also, we are a small, online company with little overhead. So, this allows us to take less margin and give you the maximum amount of savings! Ultimately our passion is to get you out on the trail, and bundles are the answer!
Can I customize the bundles?
Absolutely! Each bundle can be customized to meet your needs. For example, if you would like a colder weather sleeping bag, you can upgrade it within the bundle by selecting our NZ 20 Mummy Sleeping bag, which is available in three sizes. Or, if you do not need one of the items within the bundle, you can deselect it and save the extra money.
For a completely customized pack, we recommend starting with the 30-item bundle and selecting and deselecting the items as needed – you’ll end up with a pack created perfectly for you!
Can The DEAN 50L and 55L backpacks or bundles be brought on an airplane as carry-on luggage?
As each airline has different carry-on restrictions, we have found that The DEAN backpack 50L and 55L size of 25 x 15 x 8 inches, is generally acceptable by most airlines as carry-on luggage. As our dimensions are slightly larger than airlines stated carry-on size limitations, its soft-shell structure, with wire frame, provides it some flexibility compared to hard case luggage. For example, Southwest Airlines carry-on acceptable size is 24 x 16 x 10 inches, and Frontier Airlines is 24 x 16 x 10 inches. Whereas Allegiant Air is 22 x 16 x 10 inches and American Airlines acceptable size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Of all flights taken on various domestic and international flights, we have never had the backpack be restricted from being brought on as a carry-on. Additionally, we have designed the DEAN backpack to fit perfectly vertically in most major airline overhead compartment space (allowing you take up much less space and being able to slide it in smaller overhead spaces). Although, it is always recommended to first consult with your airline before traveling.
Company
Do you have an affiliate program?
Yes! If you are interested in becoming a Near Zero brand affiliate, please click HERE.
Where are your products made?
Our products are designed and serviced in the USA and manufactured with factories both in the US and internationally.
General Questions
What if I don’t see my question listed here?
We’d love to help! Please email us at info@nearzero.co
Where can I buy Near Zero products?
We proudly offer our products on our website – www.nearzero.co . Additionally, our products are currently available through several marketplaces including Amazon, Gear.com, and other online stores. Additionally, you can find our brand in most Travel Centers of America (TA Travel Centers) and some boutique retailers across the USA. As we continue to expand, we welcome interested retailers that would like to support small US businesses and offer our excellent products! If you are interested, please reach out to us at info@nearzero.co.
What is ultralight gear?
Ultralight gear refers to outdoor equipment and clothing that is designed to be as lightweight and compact as possible, while still maintaining functionality and durability. Ultra lightweight gear is specifically geared towards those who want to minimize the weight of their packs and move quickly and efficiently through the wilderness.
Ultralight gear is also typically characterized by its use of high tech materials such as ultralight fabrics, carbon fiber, and titanium, to reduce weight without sacrificing strength or durability.
The philosophy behind ultralight backpacking is that by reducing the weight of their gear, backpackers can hike longer distances, move more quickly, and experience less fatigue, allowing them to enjoy the outdoors more fully.
What is considered an ultralight tent?
This is a very interesting topic with many valuable perspectives. Generally, an ultralight tent weighs under 2 lbs. per person. For example, if you split the weight of the Near Zero tents it is within the ultralight range (1.7 lbs/person for 2P, and 1.6 lbs/person for 3P). It is also very similar weight and size to comparable high end (ie. expensive) tents that are considered ultralight.
The Near Zero 2-person tent weighs just over 3 lbs. and can fit up to 2 people. It is freestanding, has 2 access doors, a rainfly, 2 vestibules, an easy-setup exterior frame pole system, and many other features. A comparable-sized tent with similar features sold by other brands in the 5-8 lb. range would be classified as “Lightweight” or “Superlight.”
Still others classify ultralight tents as a simple ground tarp and a hiking pole (or stick from the forest), and stay in the 1-2 pound range. Or, they sleep with little to nothing above or under them. We like to categorize this type as “survival ultralight,” or “minimalist ultralight.”
Lastly, there are those that are willing to pay very high prices to drop weight. For example, using Dyneema composite fabrics you can get a comparable size tent under 2 pounds (selling in the $700-1,000+ range). We like to call this category “Crazy Expensive Ultralight!”
Product Questions
I have a question on how to use my Near Zero product, how do I contact you?
First we suggest you go to our YouTube channel HERE and check out our library of product videos, many of which have tutorials on how to use our products. These videos can also be found on our website if you click on the product. If you still have questions, we would love to help you! Just drop us an email at info@nearzero.co .
How to repair torn or melted tent mesh or other nylon materials?
Based on the size of the damage, we recommended 2 options:
If you have a small area to repair, you can use a mesh repair kit to patch it. There are several options available on the market. One we recommend is the Gear Aid Mesh Patch. It is a 3-inch round black mesh patch. It is available on Amazon for about $10. We’ve linked it for you HERE.
For large tears or rips, we would recommend replacing the damaged section: We offer a replacement mesh tent body, please contact us if you would like to purchase a replacement at info@nearzero.co
What is the waterproof rating for the tent fly and floor?
All our nylon tent materials have a hydrostatic rating of 2000+mm (2.84psi). Our tents also come with silicone taped seams, which also helps improve the rating.
How to prevent water from coming into the tent?
The tent fly webbing buckles include adjustments on each corner of the tent. When adjusted tight, this helps provide additional overlap of the fly with the tent body, reducing any water splashing inside. Depending upon tent location, it is also recommended to dig a trench around the tent. Our Near Zero Titanium Shovel is the perfect tool for doing this. The trench helps prevent water from pooling around the tent, which also can reduce water splashing inside.
What is the wind rating for the Dynalite tents?
Many factors can contribute to wind ratings (i.e. guy-line use, how well it is staked down, tent pitch tightness, rainfly use, etc.). Our customers have reported Near Zero tents withstanding 20-30 mph winds without any problems or poles bending.
Will my own gear fit in The Dean™?
All Near Zero products are designed to fit inside The Dean™ 50L backpack, with some exceptions. For example, a NZO 3-person tent will not fit inside the pack with our ZERO long length mummy sleeping bag. Although, a NZO 3-person tent will fit inside with a NZ 20 long length mummy sleeping bag, as offered with our bundled packs.
For other branded gear, most ultralight products will fit interchangeably within our pack. The gear items that have the largest variation of sizes are sleeping bags, tents and pads. If your sleeping bag compresses down to 13 inches or less, it will fit inside. If your packed tent length is 18 inches or less, it will fit inside. If you plan to use a closed-cell foam sleeping pad, then it is recommended to attach it to the outside of the pack, using the included pack adjustable bottom straps. The same would also apply for other branded larger size tents. We have designed The Dean™ with a large, 50L capacity size, and features to allow it to be used as interchangeably as possible with other branded products. We are confident that you will love its thoughtful design and flexibility! If for any reason you purchase The Dean™, and your items do not fit as expected, or if you are not 100% satisfied, you are welcome to return within the first 90 days for a full refund.
How do I choose the right sleeping bag temperature rating and size?
A sleeping bag’s temperature rating identifies the lowest point at which the bag will keep an “average sleeper” warm. It is a good idea to err on the side of caution and comfort and choose a bag with a rating that is lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. It’s much easier to cool down during warmer weather by opening up the bag than it is to get warmer on a freezing night.
Other things you might want to consider are zipper location if you intend on zipping two bags together or if you are right or left handed, insulation type, and bag shape. All these factors will contribute to your overall comfort.
The following “up to” heights are suggested. If you are on the borderline, it is recommended to size up. For example, if you are 5’ 11”, we would recommend getting a long length bag.
Short: Fits up to 5' 6" (168 cm)
Regular: Fits up to 6' (183 cm)
Long: Fits up to 6' 6" (198 cm)
What is the best way to wash a sleeping bag?
If the bag only needs a little cleaning, it is recommended to spot clean it rather than a full-blown bath as each time it is machined washed it subjects it to wear and tear and decreases the loft. Thus, spot cleaning is preferred. To spot clean, make a paste of non-detergent soap and water. After scrubbing the needed areas, you can wash and rinse the area being careful to avoid getting the inside down fill wet.
If a full wash is needed, following the instructions below:
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Use a front loading, non-agitating commercial washing machine only. Wash separately on gentle, cold-water cycle with a mild detergent.
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It is preferred to air-dry the bag completely. Lay the bag unzipped on a clean flat surface in a well-ventilated area. Flip the bag to ensure both sides are dried completely.
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A commercial dryer can also be used by setting the dryer to low heat. As all machine heats vary, check often to ensure fabric does not get too hot (or materials can melt).
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When the down bag is nearly dry, add 2 or 3 clean tennis balls to the dryer. This helps break up any clumps of down as it spins and helps restore the loft.
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Once fully dried, inspect sleeping bag for areas where insulation may have bunched together. If fiber clustering is found, grasp one end of bag and shake out vigorously to re-adjust. Adjust the fibers further, if necessary, by pulling apart and redistributing bunched fibers.
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Never use a damp sleeping bag.
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Dry cleaning is not recommended as solvents may be harmful to the material and the residual fumes may be harmful to the user.
Can The DEAN 50L and 55L Backpack be used as carry-on luggage on an airplane?
As each airline has different carry-on restrictions, we have found that The DEAN backpack 50L and 55L size of 25 x 15 x 8 inches, is generally acceptable by most airlines as a carry-on. As our dimensions are slightly larger than airlines stated carry-on size limitations, its soft-shell structure, with wire frame, provides it some flexibility compared to hard case luggage. For example, Southwest Airlines carry-on acceptable size is 24 x 16 x 10 inches, and Frontier Airlines is 24 x 16 x 10 inches. Whereas Allegiant Air is 22 x 16 x 10 inches and American Airlines acceptable size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Of all flights taken on various domestic and international flights, we have never had the backpack be restricted from being brought on as a carry-on. Additionally, we have designed the DEAN backpack to fit perfectly vertically in most major airline overhead compartment space (allowing you take up much less space and being able to slide it in smaller overhead spaces).
Shipping & Returns
How do I return an item?
For returns, please send us an email to support@nearzero.co notifying us of the return. Then, ship the item back to the below address notating the order number on the packaging, or within the box.
Near Zero
Attn: Returns
2036 N. Gilbert Rd. Ste 2-310
Mesa, Arizona 85203
What is your typical shipping time?
For US orders, if you select ground shipping you should receive the product within 2 to 6 business days from the day it is ordered, depending on where it is shipping to. Most shipments get fulfilled and sent out the same day they are placed. We also offer expedited shipping. All shipments originate from Arizona. Tracking information will be provided with each order.
Warranty
I believe I have a warranty issue, what should I do?
Please send us an email at support@nearzero.co explaining your issue, along with any additional information you may have (item name, order number, order approximate date, etc). If you have any photos that may help us more rapidly resolve the issue, please send. We will promptly respond to your email within 24-48 hours with a resolution.
How long are Near Zero products warranted for?
Each of our products come with a 1-year warranty. Although, we are always here to offer you superior customer service beyond one year to help with any unexpected issues that may arise.