FAQ

We proudly offer our products on our website – www.nearzero.co. Additionally, our products are currently available through several marketplaces including Amazon, Walmart.com, Scheels.com, ScoutShop.org, and several independent speciality retail locations 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.

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.

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!”

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. 

To start the process, please submit a return request. 

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. 

To start the process, please submit a return request. 

Near Zero offers aLifetime Limited Warranty to the original purchaser of any Near Zero product. If your gear has a defect in materials or workmanship during its usable life, we’ll repair it, replace it, or offer the most suitable solution.

• Stitching or seam failures
• Faulty or broken buckles, clips, or zippers
• Material or fabric defects not caused by external forces
• Structural issues with backpacks, tents, poles, or hardware

Proof of purchase from Near Zero or an authorized retailer is required

• Normal wear and tear
• Accidents, misuse, or neglect
• UV damage, mold, mildew, stains, burns, or weather-related damage
• Overloading, improper storage, or failure to follow care guidelines
• Unauthorized repairs or modifications
• Products purchased secondhand or without proof of purchase

If an issue is not covered, we offer affordable repair or replacement options to keep your gear trail-ready.

To initiate a warranty claim, contact us at support@nearzero.co.

Our products are designed and serviced in the USA and manufactured with factories both in the US and internationally.

Yes! If you are interested in becoming a Near Zero brand affiliate, please clickapply here.

First we suggest you go to our YouTube channel 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 .

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 the Gear Aid Mesh Patch for you. 

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 

All Near Zero products are designed to fit inside The Dean™ 60L backpack, with some exceptions.

For other branded gear, most lightweight 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, 60L 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. 

As each airline has different carry-on restrictions, we have found that The DEAN backpack 60L size of 24 x 16 x 10 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).

What is your product warranty policy?

Near Zero offers a Lifetime Limited Warranty to the original purchaser of any Near Zero product. If your gear has a defect in materials or workmanship during its usable life, we’ll repair it, replace it, or offer the most suitable solution.

What’s Covered

• Stitching or seam failures
• Faulty or broken buckles, clips, or zippers
• Material or fabric defects not caused by external forces
• Structural issues with backpacks, tents, poles, or hardware

Proof of purchase from Near Zero or an authorized retailer is required.

What’s Not Covered

• Normal wear and tear
• Accidents, misuse, or neglect
• UV damage, mold, mildew, stains, burns, or weather-related damage
• Overloading, improper storage, or failure to follow care guidelines
• Unauthorized repairs or modifications
• Products purchased secondhand or without proof of purchase

If an issue is not covered, we offer affordable repair or replacement options to keep your gear trail-ready.

To initiate a warranty claim, contact us at support@nearzero.co.

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:

1. Use a front loading, non-agitating commercial washing machine only. Wash separately on gentle, cold-water cycle with a mild detergent. 
2. 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.
3. 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).
4. 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. 
5. 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.
6. Never use a damp sleeping bag.
7. Dry cleaning is not recommended as solvents may be harmful to the material and the residual fumes may be harmful to the user.

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.

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. OurNear 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. 

Please submit a return request to start the process. 

Near Zero
Attn: Returns
1045 E McKellips Rd, Bldg B
Mesa, Arizona 85203

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.

Getting into backpacking can be overwhelming and expensive. We want to eliminate both of those and get you into some high quality, lightweight gear that is ready to go. We love hitting the trail and want to get you out there too!

Absolutely! Customized your perfect gear setup with the Build It Yourself Bundle. For example, if you like the Ready-2-Go Bundle, but need a colder weather sleeping bag, simply click on the Build It Yourself Bundle and add the items you need and want, The more you spend, the more you save! 

Our pre-packaged bundles offer the most savings, but with the Build It Yourself Bundle, you can still save up to 22% when compared to buying everything individually!

Yes. The DEAN 50 TR backpack measures approximately 22 x 14 x 8 inches, which is designed to meet most airline carry on size requirements. In fact, TR stands for Travel Ready, meaning the pack was intentionally designed with airline carry on limits in mind.

For reference, common airline carry on limits include:
• Southwest Airlines: 24 x 16 x 10 inches
• Frontier Airlines: 24 x 16 x 10 inches
• Allegiant Air: 22 x 16 x 10 inches
• American Airlines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Since the DEAN 50 TR is 22 x 14 x 8 inches, it generally fits within these carry on guidelines.

In addition, the soft shell design with internal frame allows the backpack to flex slightly compared to hard sided luggage, making it easier to place in overhead bins if needed.

We also designed the DEAN 50 TR to fit vertically in most airline overhead compartments, allowing it to take up less horizontal space and fit more easily in tighter overhead areas.

As always, we recommend confirming carry on size limits with your airline before traveling.

The DEAN 50 TR is very comparable in size to the REI Flash 55, and in some ways it can actually carry more usable gear.

Because the DEAN 50 TR is not just a traditional top loading tube style pack, it offers more flexibility. The full front opening panel, expandable compression straps, extra large side pockets, top brain storage, exterior gear straps, and separate hydration bladder compartment allow you to organize and carry gear outside the main compartment when needed.

As a result, many hikers find the usable carry capacity can equal or exceed packs with higher volume ratings, while still keeping gear easier to access and organize.

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!

Place the sleeping bag liner inside the sleeping bag to keep it clean and add warmth. For the pillow, insert it into the built-in pocket at the top of the sleeping bag — inflate halfway, insert, then finish inflating, or stuff the pocket with clothing. If your sleeping pad gets a hole, use the included patch kit. For the headlamp, press and hold the button 3–5 seconds to turn on, press to cycle brightness, and hold to turn off.

The bundle covers the essentials. You'll want to add: food and water, isobutane fuel canisters (not included for shipping safety), clothing and layers, and personal toiletries. Optional extras: trekking poles, camp chair, etc. Note: the stove does not have a built-in igniter — bring a lighter or matches.

The adjustable torso system fits most body types including women, men, and youth (ages 13+). Loosen the straps, set your torso length, and secure the hip belt at your hips. For a video guide, visit nearzero.co/pages/support. Attach bulky items like your tent or sleeping bag to the outside using the compression straps to maximize internal space. The DEAN 50 TR is also designed to meet most airline carry-on requirements (approx. 22 × 14 × 8 in.) — confirm with your airline before travel.

All gear is gently used, fully functional, and inspected between rentals. No deep cleaning required — just return it in similar condition to how it arrived. If anything is lost or damaged, a replacement fee may apply based on the item's value, processed within 14 days. For any issues before or during your trip, contact us immediately at support@nearzero.co or 480-788-8331.

Your rental is reserved for your selected dates. Early returns are not refundable. If you need to extend, contact us as soon as possible at support@nearzero.co and we'll work something out.

Your gear arrives 1–2 days before your trip. After your trip, repack everything into the original (or similarly sized) box, apply the included prepaid return label, and drop it off with the carrier. Please return gear on the next business day after your trip ends.

Renting lets you experience premium backpacking gear without the upfront cost — ideal if you're new to backpacking or want to try gear before committing. If you love it, we can apply your rental cost toward purchasing the gear after your trip.

We offer a core 8-piece rental bundle with your choice of a 1-person, 2-person, or 3-person tent. Tents are also available as standalone rentals. Individual items like sleeping bags or backpacks are not available to rent separately. Each item has a full product page on our site with specs and details.

Order at least 5–7 business days before your trip. We ship within the continental United States at a $25 flat rate, which includes return shipping. Free local pickup is also available at select locations. Full payment is collected at the time of booking.

The bundle is pre-built for simplicity, but you can choose your tent size (1P, 2P, or 3P). You can also add any items from our store at checkout — fuel, food, water filters, first-aid kits, and more — and everything ships together. Added purchased items are yours to keep.

You can camp in designated campgrounds, backcountry sites, or dispersed areas on public land. Always check local regulations and permits first.

Research your route, pack the essentials, check the weather, and let someone know your plan. Test your gear at home so you’re comfortable using it in the backcountry.

For beginners, 3–6 miles per day is a good starting point. Factor in your fitness, terrain, and pack weight before committing to longer distances.

A good rule of thumb is no more than20–25% of your body weight. The lighter your pack, the more enjoyable your trip will be.

The “Ten Essentials”: navigation (map/compass), sun protection, extra clothing, light, first aid, fire starter, repair kit/tools, food, water, and emergency shelter.

Renting is a smart way to try backpacking without a big upfront cost. When you are ready to buy, we can credit your rental fee toward the same bundled set you used. Emailinfo@nearzero.coand we will set it up.