What a difference 50 year makes! Listening to you describe the equipment available to today's hiker is just amazing. Almost makes me jealous! My buddy Denny and I did the trail back in '72. Synthetics were not really a thing back then so we had a lot of wool and very little cotton. Boots were made by Vasque, all leather, steel shanks and Vibram soles with lots of bite. Our sleeping bags were down filled and we carried Insolite sleeping pads. We sewed our backpacks from kits from Frostline and our aluminum frames were from our Boy Scout days. Trail side stores catering to hikers were virtually non-existent; Denny was our logistics guy and mailed freeze dried food, socks and other 'stuff' to US Post Offices located strategically along the trail. "General Delivery - Hold For Arrival", wrote that address a few times. We each had a wristwatch and older Ziess-Ikon 35mm SLR's, a few rolls of Kodachrome and a two cell flashlight. A package of Moleskin, some gauze, a bottle of iodine and a few band-aids were our first aid kit, we both had extensive first aid training and figured we cold improvise whatever else we might need. A poncho, a cotton duck hat (before Tilley was a thing), a nylon tarp for shelter, a small gas burner for heating water and a couple of 1 qt. poly water bottles finished out our kits. The boots, wool socks, cargo shorts, a long sleeved wool shirt and a bandana around the head was the daily uniform. No electronics, no phones, no music, no LED lights, none of the newer Gortex products. Just a couple of buddies taking a 2,000 mile walk in the woods, looking for the next white blaze. Denny, who went on to become a well respected Forest Ranger, insisted that we spend at least one day each week working with the local trail groups doing something to improve the trail; we were definitely the better for it. In those months we solved all the world's problems, argued over nothing and built a friendship which has lasted a lifetime. It was a grand time and something I would encourage everyone to experience, if only for a few days.
@@SMaamri78 Yes, it was. Don't quote me but I do not recall more that 12 - 15 individuals that were hikers. We never traveled with anyone else but that group always seemed to be within a few miles of each other and we crossed paths frequently. I do not recall any day-hikers or folks doing small sections but hell, that was 50 years ago and I have learned and forgotten many things since then.
Tilley still makes great hats and I own one that I love, but I used mine for land surveying not for hiking. Kind of impractical for long distance hiking since they are bulky and don't pack down well. What works better for me is a visor with a fold in the middle so I can pack it flat. It's more flexible than a hat, I can wear it by itself when it's warm out or when cold with a buff, beanie, or hood.
After years of backwoods/off trail hiking, I finally shed my good luck 60lb boat anchor. It completely changed my outdoor experience in an infinite amount of ways. Thank u Dr. Phil.
John Schoen but haven’t you regretted being unlucky? Especially when you run across a floating crap game out on the trail? I think I’ll ditch my luxury deodorant and keep my lucky anvil.
Great video with 100% solid advice. The only thing I have to add is about the rain gear. A lot of new hikers don't know that you are absolutely going to get wet no matter what you do. Even the best rain jacket is going to wet out after a certain amount of time. And if you wear the rain jacket and keep the rain off in humid conditions, you're going to get wet from sweat instead. So it's really just a choice of getting wet from rain or sweat. I recommend a rain jacket with pit zips which will help you stay drier. Also take a small travel-sized Johnson's baby powder and some kind of camp towel.
For me it was my generator. I mean it had wheels but turns out that the trail has tree and roots all over the foot path. Also appearantly Pack animals are ill advised on the AT. I told them it was a service bear.
Amen. When you need it, you will be forever grateful that you packed some. Some of the smallest pills out there, a dozen pills will probably last you an entire hike.
Idk if they are still around but I have been using the same Kelty sleeping bag for 20 years. It spent the last 6-10 years traveling and camping for paintball. The bag spent its first years on the Appalachian. Still intact, still warm, nothing has really worn out on it. When it is too warm to sleep in it, its a great pillow/ body padding.
Sam is a very dope dude respect to him. I went on a little 4 day backpacking trip from the start of the AT at springer mountain to Unicoi gap. When I got to neels gap my phone charger was broken and my phone was dead, but he charged it up for me, gave me a new iPhone charger and a little battery pack for the rest of my hike all for free. Gave me good advice on what I was going to be expecting the next couple days. Definitely one of my favorite stops on the early part of the AT
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Pretty good! The only thing I don’t necessarily agree with is the shoe size bit. I wore Altra Lone peak 3.5 trail runners and did not up size them at all for my thru hike. I did not notice any swelling or growing of my feet the entire 874 miles that I hiked (ended early because of an injury not related to my shoes). In fact, I think I might have been at a greater risk of tripping over rocks and roots if I had up sized. I’m just saying that tip might not apply to everyone and maybe detrimental to some.
Dude, stop being such a drag. He is just trying to get as much information out there as he can. If you don't like it don't watch it. Bigfoot, I think you doing a good job. I'm not a newbie to hiking and probably didn't need to watch this video but I did and I appreciate it. Keep it up
@@ChrisBrown-gw5tg Not sure why there are some folks like you who always get upset when a subscriber criticizes Bigfoot or other UA-camr; A good vlogger will not take it personally but learn from his viewers! 68 people agree it was too long as did Bigfoot!
I was off trail at NOC. 2 bears had been killed that day. I will keep my bear spray on me. You don't need it until you do. Also for females, bear spray is also for the 2 legged predators.
Informative. I would still carry & use Insect Repellant vs Patches as I know three friends who have come down with Lyme Disease. Two have permanent neurological issues. I HATE Deet... but it works!
don't we all ~ Back in late 70s when I discovered DEET it came in say 1 or 2oz bottles @ 100% DEET. 10 drops in the palms, splat hands over the bod and rub it around pretty much, and it worked...till I realized I melted my finger prints into my old Yashika plastic bodied camera. Yoiks! ~ I still use it the same way as not to waste the Pump bottle Deep Woods @ 25%. It does as you said but still wary of plastics. ie; torch and sun glasses lens, etc. if so. Not sure of all plastics vulnerable. I've tried some of that P word (name I forget) stuff at home during mosquito hour and I didn't like the results. I didn't really try adding way too much in that year of way too many skeeters. ~ As long as I'm babbling along here.. (-: The missus and I often outdoors on family property with river running through. Often bath in the river the days grunge/Deet off before din din. (btw, Ivory soap still floats) Sundown is so nice at the river(mosquito hours hitting). waaaa! Naked and can't enjoy do to just washed off and skeeters. ~~ lol, we found if ya suds up very well and don't rinse off, one can just sit on the bank of and pop a coupla beers. Skeeters 'n deer flies nary even try. Rinse, skedaddle back to Jeep, have din din, stuff put away, sleep free Deet. ....even tho I'll prolly catch hell for mentioning bathing in the river.
I through hiked in the late 1980's and used Vietnam era military surplus. No such thing as a water filter, just iodine tablets, military poncho, mess kit and a metal framed back pack. no carbon fiber pole, led head lights and the like. No gps or phone, map and compass. You guys have it easy now with technology.
Many folks did it with WW2 era surplus gear which weighed even more than yours, yet the trail snobs will tell you that it can't be done that way.... Make you wonder whether humans used to be stronger and tougher, or is it that there's something wrong with today's "experts"?
It's been a long time since I have hiked ( mid 90's) , someday wish to get back on the trail, I used to do section hikes on the AT, and, I remember that one item people brought way to much of, was Gorp, you would see hikers dropping that stuff off all over. Gorp is one of those things that hikers figure, they will be munching while they hike, well after a few days your sick of it. number one thing I hungered for, was things that were salty, one would bring clif bars and stuff to snack on, but sweets for energy is all fine and dandy, but I had too few things that were salty, as for rain gear, when I went on my first hikes I had some, but I sweated so much hiking in them ( even though it was 40s out) I just stopped using them, the important thing was to get out of wet things and into something dry and warm as soon as I reached camp/lean to. As for the soap, I had that same camp soap, and frankly I am one that always tried to keep clean, yes I know most people just forget about it and go all "natural aroma" not for me, I just did not want to stink. that soap is super concentrated, cheap, and good for everything, I shampooed my hair, washed underwear, washed eating utensils cleaned whatever with it, and yes I shaved lol. No smart phones back in those days, used to carry a big old 30mm camera, hikers today are blessed, that a smart phone, has a camera, internet (when accessible), and music, music and camera were two separate items back then.
Pretty good info here. When I did it I had no food drops and was glad I didn't. Before you start you have no idea what you are really going to want to eat. If you're still on the trail after a month or so you will eat anything in sight. You will splurge every so often and carry heavy food out of town and not care as much about weight. I can remember taking a 3 lb. loaf of bread out of town and was glad I did. And so were the people that camped with me that night. I carried baking potato's back on the trail at times. Cans of salmon. Once you get in real LDH shape you don't worry quite as much about the weight you're carrying. There are no real rules of hiking when it comes to LDH. People hike the trail every which way. Don't become a purist. It's not as much fun.
I agree with not sticking to purest mentality of "my pack has to 15lbs or less and I need these exact light weight things." But I think for a beginner, that is probably a good starting core. Then as you said you will start to try different tools of the "trade" and other peoples tools and try them out when sticking together for a bit. Over time you will discover what you like, don't like, and what adds enough value to be worth it for you carry. Specially as the further along you are the lighter your pack will become as you gain strength and endurance. Then you can start adding a few permanent luxuries if you want to.
I'm a bit late to the party but I was just at Mt Crossing and stayed in the hostel...great outfitter, hostel was basic but clean and warm and the staff was great. Totally worth the stop! As for the list of unnecessary gear, you're spot on.
Thank you for videos like this. I know My sleeping bag is too heavy and there is going to be some opportunity for me to figure things out but very helpful overall. I don't mind the extra time at the beginning. Too many folks in a rush. Can't imagine enjoying nature in a rush. Thank you for taking the time to be informative.
May you also have a blessed Easter. Good video. Heard the joke that so much stuff is left in Georgia hiker boxes that a person could just start the AT with an empty pack and pick up everything needed.
Re: bladders, for me, if it's not handy I don't drink enough. With a bladder and a tube, water is right there. No reaching, no drinking through a ridiculous Sawyer filter. I stash it in my back mesh pocket and it works. Keep a 700 ml SMart bottle for electrolyte mix. I think this is a personal thing, Sure, it's a couple of oz more but overall, I'm light.
I love hiking, I used to work in Banff in the summers, and hiked almost every day! (and some rock climbing) Now I'm older and crippled (nerve damage in my spine) I can barley walk 200 yards :( My plan is to save up for an old army jeep, and fix t up so I can explore off roading trails and maybe camp over some nights :)
You have pointed many things out that I am glad to see that you've given people to consider. I will say that I always look at water as if I'm in a arid place, but if given a chance drink freely and then be very careful with water
I worked with a wetlands consultant GPS-ing swamp features. Of course it was mosquito nightmare out there, but we never got bitten because he had the both of us load up on B complex vitamins before we went out the next day. What it does is turn your sweat into repellent. Tho it's unnerving to have mosquitoes buzz around the face, and you can feel their wings fanning and bumping into the skin, but they didn't land. The only caveat is if you have renal problems since any excess Vit B in the dose we swallowed is pee'd off using the kidneys once we hit max absorption. Other than that, I'm a convert to Vit B. When we ran out of vitamin B we used garlic tabs and that worked pretty well too though garlic has that classic residual odor and Vitamin B is metabolically useful, whereas garlic was more of an additive effect, tho both were harmless. We did not need both at the same time, so more isn't really better. The best method for us was taking it the day before (I took 2 softgels 3 X per day, or 6 total over 24 hours to load), and then just one in the morning of the trek for maintenance. I spent the summer in hip boots among swarms and was bitten MAYBE a couple times, but so few and so lightly, I didn't even think about them the rest of the day.
I agree with the soap and water. The friction of hand washing helps remove germs. Also hand sanitizer does not kill c diff, which if you got on trail would be rather shitty. Source: nursing student
I highly recommend using a Nitecore 10,000. I get 2.6 charges on my iPhone 13 and it weighs about 5.3 oz. My Anker 20,000 was great but weights about 12 oz. It’s just to heavy. I totally agree with getting your shoes at least one size bigger than your normal shoe size. I learned this on the Long Trail in Vermont.
I carry a Klymit V pad and a cut down closed cell pad to go on the ground under my Klymit (under my torso). I also use it for a sit pad. I have a Mountain Smith synthetic bag rated at 20 degrees, but in the summer I just use a Arcturus Wool blanket or a ranger roll. I can always add a mylar blanket in there if I misjudge the temp.
Look at the vid about your keto diet and now look at this vid, you look a LOT more healthy !! Well done man .. Well done .. Keep it up and just stay on it
When I did the trail back in 1999, I brought a 6 person tent, cot, axe, chainsaw, 2 burner stove and canned food. My water filter was 5 lbs of crushed carbon in a pillow case. Times have changed!
If you’re carrying bear mace for people then you’re wrong. Bear mace is less potent than human mace, because bears have far more sensitive nostrils. If you’re carrying mace for people, carry normal mace.
@@SophisticatedDogCat I was surprised by this, but it's fact for sure. I'm not a through hiker so bear spray is for bears, S & W 686 with 180 grain hardcast is for other problems.
Folks, please note that this list is AT specific. Bear spray is fine to ditch on the AT. For portions of the PCT and CDT, as well as many other mid and long trails in brown bear territory, I would personally recommend carrying it, as will most authorities.
@@russellinthebush2897 Please be careful and do your research before giving safety advice. The northernmost portion of the PCT is within brown bear range according to several authorities, and a couple even show brown ranges cover the PCT route for the *ENTIRE* state of Washington. This is highly debatable, but actual territory can extend beyond known territory in any given season. However, the important thing to know is that the northern part of the US Cascades has been considered a recovery zone for Grizzlies by the US Fish and Wildlife Service since at least 2007, and populations are likely increasing - which will expand distribution (ranges) as a necessity of feeding. Do what you think is right and safe. Personally, I'd recommend anybody hiking the Cascades in Washington consider bear spray carefully.
@@backpacker3421 I'm familiar with the studies of Brown Bear activity in Washington. Most is farther east of the PCT and is not near the PCT corridor. It's my understanding that no Brown Bear activity has been seen near the PCT.
@@russellinthebush2897 You are referring to the Selkirk mountains. 40-50 browns are estimated to range there. As many as 10 individuals are believed to be ranging around the border in the Cascades as of 2015, and sightings of the Selkirk bears have been seen further west, probably resulting from black bear baitings by hunters. Again, you do what you think is safe, but telling people "There is absolutely no need for bear spray on the PCT" when the last couple hundred miles is active recovery zone is questionable.
While brown bears aren’t common on the pct there are mountain lions and spray could be good for that. But maybe not because they stalk you so you most likely won’t see them coming. But from videos on the pct and cdt last year people did come across them.
I couldn't quite grasp how to do light packing til I read Ray Jardine book and still couldn't fathom how to implement it so I did his first group trip in Oregon in 2002, he showed us his 8.5 lb base pack , no food no water. I now usual start with a 10 lb base because I don't know if I can ever be as good as Ray!! We also started our fires with a bow drill, loved that.
Hey what a cool video very informative.Happy Easter.the almond butter was great I used it in my attempt at a Passover plate and Hagada hiker style travel.It was a cool night of remembering all my testimonies and learning how the Jewish celebrate Passover.Thanks for the other stuff to tested out the hat lawn mowing.it works great if there is not to much wind .it reminds me of you so much .lol my friend.
I absolutely love these videos. Having said this. I'm 60 years old. My first night hike was all night in the southern Sierra Madre mountains in central Mexico, 1979. From El Crucero to Talpa. No water, no light, no food. I know, dumb. I don't recommend it. One of my friend's mother. Did the PCT in the early 80's. No cell phones, ultra light, gps. Only map, compass and guts. I think people should take advantage of the wonderful technology that we have. I do. I'm what some would call a section hiker. All in the SoCal area except for the grand canyon, Sedona and a very small part in the South mountains of Virginia. There is something about short hikes with no trail or vanishing trails than a structured long trail. What are your thoughts on that? Thank you.
I'm glad you mentioned that you carry soap. I'm surprised at how many hikers are not carrying soap. Seems that most are relying on hand sanitizer. With the current outbreak of Norovirus on the trail it is very important that you have the ability to wash your hands as hand sanitizer is not very effective with noro. I have shuttled a lot of sick hikers from the trail into Erwin this year dealing with an illness that may have been avoided with better hygiene. I even keep soap in the car as well as hand sanitizer while running shuttles due to the high number of sick hikers I encounter.
Biggest problem with the store (when I hiked in 1998)was that the hostel’s plumbing pipes did not have insulation. So if there was even the slightest HINT of a chance that the weather would go below freezing- they would drain the pipes and close the hostel. Since so many people start early in the year... the bulk of the people who wanted a shower were very disappointed.
LOL, well done, this gave me a good laugh. I agree, was a little long winded. I adjusted my comment that I pinned the top to the time that people can skip right to the list.
I hiked SOBO in 04 with almost no backpacking experience, that was true for a number of folks that I hiked with. Most of those people finsined the trail very few got off. I truly feel that a SOBO hike is tourgher and attractes individuals with strong mental fortitude, figuring out what you should get rid of on your own after 100 miles with out some one helping you decide what you don't need. Plus a south bound hike is the way the ATC intended the trail to be hiked, look at any of the literature, clothing, or guid books and they all read AT Main to Georgia.
I would always want to save the best for last. I agree South bond hikers are a different bread. Since I live in New England it’s like coming home. The only down side is I have hiked the hell out of New England so it’s not new.
I've been reading comments saying this is '"too much information" KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!!! you guys are missing out!! Learn as much as you can so you can be the absolute most prepared you can be!!
Regarding bear spray, lots of people drop it when they leave the trail because you can't take it with you on the plane (not even in checked luggage) which might give the impression it's unnecessary.
He is talking about people dumping it on the trial. I can’t remember the last time I have seen anyone carrying bear spray on the AT. It’s not really needed along with a bear can.
Cotton? That just seams dumb. My parents who used to hike mountains A LOT back in the day (they r 75/76 now) (my dad did his last half dome in Yosemite hike a few yrs back when he was 72), taught me from a young age to wear linnen under with wool over and for socks wear silk liners with wool over.
Great vid! Some very good pointers. I am like you, I always carry a travel size deodorant. One other thing I carry, is a small soap bar that you can get from hotels. I stick it in a zip lock bag and use it to wash my hands. The weight is negligible and the benefits are obvious.
we were going north on AT from springer... a few days in we found all kinds of gear and food; expensive sweaters and other clothes, all sorts of can foods. these were shoved under rocks and in branches. later on around Blood mountain we found a hiker that was using old military gear. I suspect he was the one lighting his load. He just up and decided to start hiking. his tennis shoes told his story. he told us he hiked one day and rested the next. later we noticed two men that also didn't need to be on trail. one was a lawyer the other IRS agent both aged 55. these guys were confused as to which was to go and asked us (experienced hiker scouts) where water was on the trail. we met them at wa-lasi-ya center grabing all kinds of food; those cans may have been theirs. told them to get a topo map and mark all water points on the trail and boil it before drinking.
Someone (trail angels/outfitters) should offer a "permethrin soak" for clothing items on the trail. A soak bucket, a squirt of permethrin concentrate and a gallon of water and, a clothes line. Socks, shorts, shirt, hat, sun gloves, gaiters and all your camp night wear. I think that the US military does not soak undergarments because if you have it on the outer clothes, bugs won't make it to the underwear (not because it's harmful).
Ben Kelly. There is a 0.5% of pemetherin to water where it becomes effective. Most concentrate isn't 100% (the bottle I have is 37%). So in the instructions for the bottle you buy, find how many ounces to put in a gallon to get to the effective 0.5%. Then dunk/soak clothes in, then hang dry out of direct sun. Don't wring out completely. Just so it's still a little drippy is good. Good for 6-8 washes or about 2-3 months. Wearing yellow rubber dishwash gloves are a good choice.
@@bobbyg65 I just found a large bottle at WalMart too, just sprayed down all my stuff... we'll see how effective it is, but half the reviews on Amazon are from people that say it even kept the bugs off 'em in Africa!!
biggest thing i learned was to start with a size of shoes 1 size bigger than normal as your feet will swell and you will get blisters if you start with your normal shoe size.
Very interesting video. Thanks! I’m really curious about the hand washing set up you mentioned. Can you talk a little more about that or show an example? I wear contacts and being able to wash my hands is important. Thanks!!!
I'm hiking late. Starting June 2nd. Pack weight is barely hitting 35 pounds but I keep unpacking it trying to figure out what I don't need the best info I got from the video that I'm able to use now is my medical kit. It's already small to start off with but honestly I think I'm just going to need a bottle of ibuprofen and tape for the toes.
Interesting. I've never done that kind of hiking before and I'm very unlikely to do it now (probably not a good idea for someone who uses a cane), but it's still very interesting. I'm not sure why this ended up on my recommendeds, but it's generally good info for ppl that are into hiking.
When I thru hiked the PCT (which has a much farther distance between most resupplies) I vlogged and made videos and still did not need more than a 10kmAh power bank
Thanks for the excellent advice and suggestions. I was never interested in a through-hike, but have been spending time on the AT on and off for 50 years so far. One thing I almost never see addressed is that many people have problems wearing synthetics. Somewhere in the order of 7 to 15% of Americans develop skin problems and have to use a natural fiber as a base layer. I've been using a combination of silk, wool, and and lightweight cotton, and using good quality synthetics for middle and top layers for warmth and water repellent properties. Silk seems to wick the moisture away almost as good as a good "wicking" fiber, and in addition doesn't make me stink like synthetics, negating the need for deodorants. Also, I found that using a soap made with thinner oils such as Kirk's Castile rather than Dr. Bronner's helps prevent body odors. I guess we each need to try different things to find out what works. Keep on hicking!
@@ThePrairieChronicles There are plenty of us out there. I don't know if there's a correlation, but I am also intolerant to hair products. I can never use shampoo or rinse or any other commercial product. After a haircut, even though nothing but water is used, my scalp will start itching within an hour, and bleeding within 12 unless I wash the hair well. Movie theater seats and airline seats have to be covered so I don't get products transfered. Another reason to use Kirk's for all my washing on the trail; body, clothing, cooking.
OMG, my old backpack weighed in at 40-60 pounds, depending on the camera gear and trail building tools. And that was on steep mountain trails in the west.
Way back in history, when we were still primitive and using imperial measurements, my standard was 35 lbs. I remember sitting on top of a mountain we had just summitted, and I asked my mate if he fancied a beer, He was aghast..."don't tell me you lugged beer all the way up this mountain?" I replied, " no, you did. I stashed it in the bottom of your pack!" Oh yes, payback WAS a bitch!
I’m really impressed by the quality of your videos, lots of information and new angles. All by yourself, you improved the setup of Zpacks Duplex, better than their own instructions, great work!
My no.1 gear dump? My mobile blacksmithing gear. Foolishly, I thought I could make a lot of trail friends by helping them fix their vintage, hipster iron and steel gear products. Boy, was I wrong. Not only did nobody seem to be using vintage gear made of iron or steel, but I have found that ever since I began regularly eating roasted garlic to ward off ticks and misquitos I have also been warding off potential trail friends. Man, I cannot believe I was stupid enough to pack a 15-pound anvil, a seven-pound hammer, and six-pound tongs. I will never make that mistake again. Live and learn, I guess. Live and learn...
On my last trip I used everything but some extra food 😂 the things I wish I would have had were; a space blanket, a better 🪚 saw, a small fuel container 🫙 and a better power bank. Going to make some upgrades before my next trip and try to bring more minimal but better quality food.
Good video, very useful. But about the musquito patches: I suggest to do some research before buying. They seem to be citronella-based. There is not enough scientific evidence that citronella works. For DEET there is, but it has some disadvantages. There is a natural alternative: citriodiol (also known as PMD ( p-menthane 3,8-diol)). A 2006 study shows it is just as effective as DEET if used in the right quantities and relatively harmless. But don’t believe me, look it up yourself.
think about chemical water purification..... filters are great when they work......they are mechanical and subject to breakdowns...... lack of hydration will stop you in your tracks.....something such as aquamira drops can save you......unless you love boiling till you get where you're going...... I would at least keep some tabs in the first aid.....chlorine dioxide is all that will reliably kill chrypto..... I would also suggest taking a survival class and a wilderness first aid class.......if not only for yourself you can help others along the trail that may be in trouble......
Thanks for the tips and tricks. As a frequent visitor to BWCA (shout out to Enlighted Equipment, Winona MN) I am all about lightening my load when portaging. How many hikers are wearing New shoes breaking them in on trek - OMG talk about sore feet. Break them in, treat with MINK OIL, at least a week before.
My INCH bag kit came to 70 lbs so I had to reduce weight and volume. My clothing had been almost all cotton because that is what I owned. Now I have switched most of it to synthetics. This has saved a lot of weight and space. The synthetics are at least 75% lighter and take 75% of the room. Also my first aid kit is way too heavy so I will be doing a vid on lightening that too. I have already micro managed and reduced over 4 lbs just with that. My next steps will be a bit more expensive. Those include a lighter more compact tarp and tent. Those will save about another 3 lbs and reduce bulk by over 25%. Also because it is an INCH bag I had a lot of batteries but now have 2 small light weight solar chargers and am switching to all rechargeable batteries which means I don't need as many and they have a lot more longevity. Also because it is an INCH bag I carry almost 20 lbs of food. I probably won't reduce that, but have food that is nutritious, light weight, and a good variety. See my video on the food I carry. Thanks for all your videos.
We used to walk out to the local lake from my parents house. The trail was less than 2 miles. For some odd reason, people left clothes on the trail, often including underwear.
Ran across a guy in ga on the back side of blood mountain carrying a large cast iron frying pan. He said he was headed to Maine. I wonder how long before he ditched that heavy pan.
I did that once for a week long hike! When I was a kid we would brag about who had the heaviest pack and I was trying to win. A friend beat me by carrying five bricks.
The most useless item I ever carried, and I’ve done the Annapurna trek, as well as backpacking most of Europe over 5 years I lived in England, was a headlamp in Alaska. I hiked Kesugi Ridge, and Eagle River to Girdwood and back. However, it was mid summer, and it was light 24 hours a day.
I wear Salomon's at work and put them thru a lot. For my part they wear like a 10 but I wear a 9 1\2. I know they are expensive but I have foot pain and they give me a lot of support so that's why I wear them. Have not been hiking in a long time but see no reason they would not hold up on a tough trail.
Based on my experience, the sawyer micro is not as good than the sawyer squeeze. The sawyer micro needs to be back flushed frequently and I’m not willing to carry the syringe with me. I changed it out for the sawyer squeeze and water if slowing again. Happy Easter (Trails)
I take along the blue coupler so that I can just back flush with a water bottle. Sawyer should just put couplers in their kit and not even bother with supplying a syringe. But before a trip the syringe has a use in making diluted permethrin solutions from a concentrate. I don't spray my clothing, but soak things in a plastic bag with a minimal amount of permethrin solution, so that almost none needs to be disposed of after hanging up soaked clothes to dry. Wear nitrile gloves for safety when doing all this.
@Amy Sternheim My dear, why oh why do you feel the need to tell these whoppers? There is no way anyone can thru hike that trail with a tuba. It appears you have some sort of "infatuation" with this guy. That's your business, not ours. However my dear, when you tell these whoppers it affects us all. Let's just step back into reality, OK? Hope this helps!
I've never done much hiking camping mostly as a Boy Scout. Hiker stench we used to go to summer camp two weeks on a lake in Maine mosquitoes were so bad we use skunk oil to keep them off. The stuff was basically skunk oil with a few other ingredients but yeah nobody worried about stench we all smelled like we got skunked
One time I bathed in apple cider vinegar and nothing wanted to eat me for a whole week. I just put have a gal in some bath water. I soaked for maybe 10 minutes. (Water was too hot). And then washed after that.
1 cotton clothing
2 large first aid kits
3 bear spray
4 soap/shampoo/deodorant
5 electronics (extra camera, ect)
6 big/bulky/heavy sleeping bags
7 water bottles (nalgene, ect)
8 too much food
Most common items added/replaced:
1 sleeping pads
2 shoes
3 synthetic clothing
4 Sawyer water filters
5 rain jacket (dependant on weather)
Thanks for saving my time
Thank you! Jesus this went on forever.
Thank you. His intent was good, but too much noise spoiled the content.
Jesus, thank you!
Thanks for the summary, this dude was all over the place.
What a difference 50 year makes! Listening to you describe the equipment available to today's hiker is just amazing. Almost makes me jealous!
My buddy Denny and I did the trail back in '72. Synthetics were not really a thing back then so we had a lot of wool and very little cotton. Boots were made by Vasque, all leather, steel shanks and Vibram soles with lots of bite. Our sleeping bags were down filled and we carried Insolite sleeping pads. We sewed our backpacks from kits from Frostline and our aluminum frames were from our Boy Scout days. Trail side stores catering to hikers were virtually non-existent; Denny was our logistics guy and mailed freeze dried food, socks and other 'stuff' to US Post Offices located strategically along the trail. "General Delivery - Hold For Arrival", wrote that address a few times. We each had a wristwatch and older Ziess-Ikon 35mm SLR's, a few rolls of Kodachrome and a two cell flashlight. A package of Moleskin, some gauze, a bottle of iodine and a few band-aids were our first aid kit, we both had extensive first aid training and figured we cold improvise whatever else we might need. A poncho, a cotton duck hat (before Tilley was a thing), a nylon tarp for shelter, a small gas burner for heating water and a couple of 1 qt. poly water bottles finished out our kits. The boots, wool socks, cargo shorts, a long sleeved wool shirt and a bandana around the head was the daily uniform.
No electronics, no phones, no music, no LED lights, none of the newer Gortex products. Just a couple of buddies taking a 2,000 mile walk in the woods, looking for the next white blaze. Denny, who went on to become a well respected Forest Ranger, insisted that we spend at least one day each week working with the local trail groups doing something to improve the trail; we were definitely the better for it.
In those months we solved all the world's problems, argued over nothing and built a friendship which has lasted a lifetime. It was a grand time and something I would encourage everyone to experience, if only for a few days.
Look at you with your stupid flag. It is really helping.
To be fair, wool and down are still pretty much top tier.
I would imagine it was a lot less crowded, too
@@SMaamri78 Yes, it was. Don't quote me but I do not recall more that 12 - 15 individuals that were hikers. We never traveled with anyone else but that group always seemed to be within a few miles of each other and we crossed paths frequently. I do not recall any day-hikers or folks doing small sections but hell, that was 50 years ago and I have learned and forgotten many things since then.
Tilley still makes great hats and I own one that I love, but I used mine for land surveying not for hiking. Kind of impractical for long distance hiking since they are bulky and don't pack down well. What works better for me is a visor with a fold in the middle so I can pack it flat. It's more flexible than a hat, I can wear it by itself when it's warm out or when cold with a buff, beanie, or hood.
After years of backwoods/off trail hiking, I finally shed my good luck 60lb boat anchor. It completely changed my outdoor experience in an infinite amount of ways.
Thank u Dr. Phil.
John Schoen but haven’t you regretted being unlucky? Especially when you run across a floating crap game out on the trail? I think I’ll ditch my luxury deodorant and keep my lucky anvil.
And, did you discard it's neck chain too?
My Inch kit was at 70 lbs, but is now closer to 60 and I hope to get that down to mid to upper 50s.
@David Milton You could've done what this woman did. She lost 190 lbs of dead weight in no time at all. She got a divorce.
@@theprophetez1357 Huh??.Wut??
Great video with 100% solid advice. The only thing I have to add is about the rain gear. A lot of new hikers don't know that you are absolutely going to get wet no matter what you do. Even the best rain jacket is going to wet out after a certain amount of time. And if you wear the rain jacket and keep the rain off in humid conditions, you're going to get wet from sweat instead. So it's really just a choice of getting wet from rain or sweat. I recommend a rain jacket with pit zips which will help you stay drier. Also take a small travel-sized Johnson's baby powder and some kind of camp towel.
Thanks for the "dont let your water-filter freeze" tip. It's obvious now that you mentioned it but it hadn't occurred to me. Worth a million bucks!
For me it was my generator. I mean it had wheels but turns out that the trail has tree and roots all over the foot path. Also appearantly Pack animals are ill advised on the AT. I told them it was a service bear.
What, your nuclear reactor was at the shop?
Why use a generator? Up in Montana we have current bushes all over the place.
I had to leave my queen bed
Ill stick to Emotional support badger
My 1,500 mile extension cord was good enough for me.
Anti diarreah medication should be in any first aid kit. Not being able to keep hydrated will stop you from hiking.
This was one of my must add-ons. You're not eating your normal diet, and more likely will have some sort of small issue👍
Yeah I learned the hard way with Noro on the AT.
Amen. When you need it, you will be forever grateful that you packed some. Some of the smallest pills out there, a dozen pills will probably last you an entire hike.
I never go anywhere without Immodium AD AND A&D Ointment....They sort of go together.....
Wow, thank you. I have no experience in hiking but looking to get into. I never thought of this one 🙏🏽
Idk if they are still around but I have been using the same Kelty sleeping bag for 20 years. It spent the last 6-10 years traveling and camping for paintball. The bag spent its first years on the Appalachian. Still intact, still warm, nothing has really worn out on it. When it is too warm to sleep in it, its a great pillow/ body padding.
For what it’s worth, I listened to the whole intro and found it both useful and enjoyable.
Sam is a very dope dude respect to him. I went on a little 4 day backpacking trip from the start of the AT at springer mountain to Unicoi gap. When I got to neels gap my phone charger was broken and my phone was dead, but he charged it up for me, gave me a new iPhone charger and a little battery pack for the rest of my hike all for free. Gave me good advice on what I was going to be expecting the next couple days. Definitely one of my favorite stops on the early part of the AT
Skip to 03:24 for the start of the shakedown ditch list
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Pretty good! The only thing I don’t necessarily agree with is the shoe size bit. I wore Altra Lone peak 3.5 trail runners and did not up size them at all for my thru hike. I did not notice any swelling or growing of my feet the entire 874 miles that I hiked (ended early because of an injury not related to my shoes). In fact, I think I might have been at a greater risk of tripping over rocks and roots if I had up sized. I’m just saying that tip might not apply to everyone and maybe detrimental to some.
I must say that I LOVE the blazes on the trees in the back. Nice touch!
Thomas
Go in at about 3:20 if all you want to see is the seven items. Up to then it's advertising and rambling.
OMG shorten up your intros please. 3 1/2 minutes into the video I still haven’t heard even 1 item of ditched gear!
I was a little long. I pinned a comment of the time you can skip to. Thanks for the feedback p
Dude, stop being such a drag. He is just trying to get as much information out there as he can. If you don't like it don't watch it.
Bigfoot, I think you doing a good job. I'm not a newbie to hiking and probably didn't need to watch this video but I did and I appreciate it. Keep it up
@@ChrisBrown-gw5tg Not sure why there are some folks like you who always get upset when a subscriber criticizes Bigfoot or other UA-camr; A good vlogger will not take it personally but learn from his viewers! 68 people agree it was too long as did Bigfoot!
I'll say it again trolls, if you dont like it dont watch it!!
Chris Brown: I think we all know who the troll is bro
I was off trail at NOC. 2 bears had been killed that day. I will keep my bear spray on me. You don't need it until you do. Also for females, bear spray is also for the 2 legged predators.
have found all kinds of gear shoved under rocks up to Blood Mountain. Some items were cashmere sweaters expensive stoves canned food.... army gear.
Informative. I would still carry & use Insect Repellant vs Patches as I know three friends who have come down with Lyme Disease. Two have permanent neurological issues. I HATE Deet... but it works!
DEET is the most effective insect repellent. Get the full-strength stuff as military surplus. I*t stinks but it works and that's what counts.
Picaridin has been tested to be an effective alternative to DEET and it’s not as toxic
33% or less DEET is known to not be meaningfully toxic. You're not taking it internally, right?
don't we all ~ Back in late 70s when I discovered DEET it came in say 1 or 2oz bottles @ 100% DEET.
10 drops in the palms, splat hands over the bod and rub it around pretty much, and it worked...till I realized I melted my finger prints into my old Yashika plastic bodied camera. Yoiks!
~ I still use it the same way as not to waste the Pump bottle Deep Woods @ 25%.
It does as you said but still wary of plastics. ie; torch and sun glasses lens, etc. if so. Not sure of all plastics vulnerable.
I've tried some of that P word (name I forget) stuff at home during mosquito hour and I didn't like the results. I didn't really try adding way too much in that year of way too many skeeters.
~ As long as I'm babbling along here.. (-:
The missus and I often outdoors on family property with river running through. Often bath in the river the days grunge/Deet off before din din. (btw, Ivory soap still floats)
Sundown is so nice at the river(mosquito hours hitting). waaaa! Naked and can't enjoy do to just washed off and skeeters.
~~ lol, we found if ya suds up very well and don't rinse off, one can just sit on the bank of and pop a coupla beers.
Skeeters 'n deer flies nary even try.
Rinse, skedaddle back to Jeep, have din din, stuff put away, sleep free Deet.
....even tho I'll prolly catch hell for mentioning bathing in the river.
sulfur powder works
Video needs a word shake-down.
Cut the first 4 minutes entirely.
I was just about to say something similar when I read your comment. Thank you for commenting it.
How about shut up and be grateful for the free information?
I through hiked in the late 1980's and used Vietnam era military surplus. No such thing as a water filter, just iodine tablets, military poncho, mess kit and a metal framed back pack. no carbon fiber pole, led head lights and the like. No gps or phone, map and compass. You guys have it easy now with technology.
Many folks did it with WW2 era surplus gear which weighed even more than yours, yet the trail snobs will tell you that it can't be done that way....
Make you wonder whether humans used to be stronger and tougher, or is it that there's something wrong with today's "experts"?
It's been a long time since I have hiked ( mid 90's) , someday wish to get back on the trail, I used to do section hikes on the AT, and, I remember that one item people brought way to much of, was Gorp, you would see hikers dropping that stuff off all over.
Gorp is one of those things that hikers figure, they will be munching while they hike, well after a few days your sick of it. number one thing I hungered for, was things that were salty, one would bring clif bars and stuff to snack on, but sweets for energy is all fine and dandy, but I had too few things that were salty,
as for rain gear, when I went on my first hikes I had some, but I sweated so much hiking in them ( even though it was 40s out) I just stopped using them, the important thing was to get out of wet things and into something dry and warm as soon as I reached camp/lean to.
As for the soap, I had that same camp soap, and frankly I am one that always tried to keep clean, yes I know most people just forget about it and go all "natural aroma" not for me, I just did not want to stink. that soap is super concentrated, cheap, and good for everything, I shampooed my hair, washed underwear, washed eating utensils cleaned whatever with it, and yes I shaved lol.
No smart phones back in those days, used to carry a big old 30mm camera, hikers today are blessed, that a smart phone, has a camera, internet (when accessible), and music, music and camera were two separate items back then.
Pretty good info here. When I did it I had no food drops and was glad I didn't. Before you start you have no idea what you are really going to want to eat. If you're still on the trail after a month or so you will eat anything in sight. You will splurge every so often and carry heavy food out of town and not care as much about weight. I can remember taking a 3 lb. loaf of bread out of town and was glad I did. And so were the people that camped with me that night. I carried baking potato's back on the trail at times. Cans of salmon. Once you get in real LDH shape you don't worry quite as much about the weight you're carrying. There are no real rules of hiking when it comes to LDH. People hike the trail every which way. Don't become a purist. It's not as much fun.
potatoes
I agree with not sticking to purest mentality of "my pack has to 15lbs or less and I need these exact light weight things." But I think for a beginner, that is probably a good starting core. Then as you said you will start to try different tools of the "trade" and other peoples tools and try them out when sticking together for a bit. Over time you will discover what you like, don't like, and what adds enough value to be worth it for you carry. Specially as the further along you are the lighter your pack will become as you gain strength and endurance. Then you can start adding a few permanent luxuries if you want to.
Skip intro to 3:14
I'm a bit late to the party but I was just at Mt Crossing and stayed in the hostel...great outfitter, hostel was basic but clean and warm and the staff was great. Totally worth the stop! As for the list of unnecessary gear, you're spot on.
Jennifer Buynitzky I clean it every morning😏 thanks🤙🏼🤙🏼
Thank you for videos like this. I know My sleeping bag is too heavy and there is going to be some opportunity for me to figure things out but very helpful overall. I don't mind the extra time at the beginning. Too many folks in a rush. Can't imagine enjoying nature in a rush. Thank you for taking the time to be informative.
Outstanding and informative.Thanks. The hand-washing in the plastic bag is brill.
When I did Colorado Outward Bound in 1976, we learned that Cotton Kills. We used wool.
May you also have a blessed Easter. Good video. Heard the joke that so much stuff is left in Georgia hiker boxes that a person could just start the AT with an empty pack and pick up everything needed.
Lol. I just commented you could show up empty , hit up a couple hiker boxes for everything you need.
Re: bladders, for me, if it's not handy I don't drink enough. With a bladder and a tube, water is right there. No reaching, no drinking through a ridiculous Sawyer filter. I stash it in my back mesh pocket and it works. Keep a 700 ml SMart bottle for electrolyte mix. I think this is a personal thing, Sure, it's a couple of oz more but overall, I'm light.
I love hiking, I used to work in Banff in the summers, and hiked almost every day! (and some rock climbing) Now I'm older and crippled (nerve damage in my spine) I can barley walk 200 yards :( My plan is to save up for an old army jeep, and fix t up so I can explore off roading trails and maybe camp over some nights :)
A "barley walk" is what you get from too much Jack Daniels. You might want to check your spelling!
@@dunruden9720 thank you for the insight ... it's very pertinent to camping.
Platypus water bladders. Lightest bladder/water carrier I’ve found. I have a few that are several years old. Flat and foldable when empty.
You have pointed many things out that I am glad to see that you've given people to consider. I will say that I always look at water as if I'm in a arid place, but if given a chance drink freely and then be very careful with water
I worked with a wetlands consultant GPS-ing swamp features. Of course it was mosquito nightmare out there, but we never got bitten because he had the both of us load up on B complex vitamins before we went out the next day. What it does is turn your sweat into repellent. Tho it's unnerving to have mosquitoes buzz around the face, and you can feel their wings fanning and bumping into the skin, but they didn't land.
The only caveat is if you have renal problems since any excess Vit B in the dose we swallowed is pee'd off using the kidneys once we hit max absorption. Other than that, I'm a convert to Vit B.
When we ran out of vitamin B we used garlic tabs and that worked pretty well too though garlic has that classic residual odor and Vitamin B is metabolically useful, whereas garlic was more of an additive effect, tho both were harmless. We did not need both at the same time, so more isn't really better. The best method for us was taking it the day before (I took 2 softgels 3 X per day, or 6 total over 24 hours to load), and then just one in the morning of the trek for maintenance. I spent the summer in hip boots among swarms and was bitten MAYBE a couple times, but so few and so lightly, I didn't even think about them the rest of the day.
I agree with the soap and water. The friction of hand washing helps remove germs. Also hand sanitizer does not kill c diff, which if you got on trail would be rather shitty. Source: nursing student
I highly recommend using a Nitecore 10,000. I get 2.6 charges on my iPhone 13 and it weighs about 5.3 oz. My Anker 20,000 was great but weights about 12 oz. It’s just to heavy. I totally agree with getting your shoes at least one size bigger than your normal shoe size. I learned this on the Long Trail in Vermont.
I carry a Klymit V pad and a cut down closed cell pad to go on the ground under my Klymit (under my torso). I also use it for a sit pad. I have a Mountain Smith synthetic bag rated at 20 degrees, but in the summer I just use a Arcturus Wool blanket or a ranger roll. I can always add a mylar blanket in there if I misjudge the temp.
Look at the vid about your keto diet and now look at this vid, you look a LOT more healthy !! Well done man .. Well done .. Keep it up and just stay on it
When I did the trail back in 1999, I brought a 6 person tent, cot, axe, chainsaw, 2 burner stove and canned food. My water filter was 5 lbs of crushed carbon in a pillow case. Times have changed!
Sanitizer can also be used as an accelerant when starting camp fires
Wow hadn't thought of that
USEFUL!! thanks!!
@@leeennddaa853 well it IS NEARLY pure alcohol..
Virgo Fats found in potato/corn chips make good fire starters. Trading 1 chip for warmth is fair. Snacking in comfort...
@@ltmundy1164 any deep fat cooked chips/crisps will work :)
I always enjoy picking up the things the hikers leave along the trail in the first week.
I brought bear spray knowing most people leave it in hiker boxes. It made me feel better having it on me. It’s not just for bears.
right. I don't carry it for bears. I carry it for Steves.
right. I don't carry it for bears. I carry it for Steves.
If you’re carrying bear mace for people then you’re wrong. Bear mace is less potent than human mace, because bears have far more sensitive nostrils. If you’re carrying mace for people, carry normal mace.
@@SophisticatedDogCat I was surprised by this, but it's fact for sure. I'm not a through hiker so bear spray is for bears, S & W 686 with 180 grain hardcast is for other problems.
@@asmith7876 Like what? What situation would you ever be in in on trail where you need a firearm?
Allergic to wool . What is another good material.
Folks, please note that this list is AT specific. Bear spray is fine to ditch on the AT. For portions of the PCT and CDT, as well as many other mid and long trails in brown bear territory, I would personally recommend carrying it, as will most authorities.
There are no Brown (Grizzly) Bears on the PCT. CDT yes, PCT no. There is absolutely no need for bear spray on the PCT.
@@russellinthebush2897 Please be careful and do your research before giving safety advice. The northernmost portion of the PCT is within brown bear range according to several authorities, and a couple even show brown ranges cover the PCT route for the *ENTIRE* state of Washington. This is highly debatable, but actual territory can extend beyond known territory in any given season. However, the important thing to know is that the northern part of the US Cascades has been considered a recovery zone for Grizzlies by the US Fish and Wildlife Service since at least 2007, and populations are likely increasing - which will expand distribution (ranges) as a necessity of feeding. Do what you think is right and safe. Personally, I'd recommend anybody hiking the Cascades in Washington consider bear spray carefully.
@@backpacker3421 I'm familiar with the studies of Brown Bear activity in Washington. Most is farther east of the PCT and is not near the PCT corridor. It's my understanding that no Brown Bear activity has been seen near the PCT.
@@russellinthebush2897 You are referring to the Selkirk mountains. 40-50 browns are estimated to range there. As many as 10 individuals are believed to be ranging around the border in the Cascades as of 2015, and sightings of the Selkirk bears have been seen further west, probably resulting from black bear baitings by hunters. Again, you do what you think is safe, but telling people "There is absolutely no need for bear spray on the PCT" when the last couple hundred miles is active recovery zone is questionable.
While brown bears aren’t common on the pct there are mountain lions and spray could be good for that. But maybe not because they stalk you so you most likely won’t see them coming. But from videos on the pct and cdt last year people did come across them.
I couldn't quite grasp how to do light packing til I read Ray Jardine book and still couldn't fathom how to implement it so I did his first group trip in Oregon in 2002, he showed us his 8.5 lb base pack , no food no water. I now usual start with a 10 lb base because I don't know if I can ever be as good as Ray!! We also started our fires with a bow drill, loved that.
Hey what a cool video very informative.Happy Easter.the almond butter was great I used it in my attempt at a Passover plate and Hagada hiker style travel.It was a cool night of remembering all my testimonies and learning how the Jewish celebrate Passover.Thanks for the other stuff to tested out the hat lawn mowing.it works great if there is not to much wind .it reminds me of you so much .lol my friend.
I absolutely love these videos. Having said this. I'm 60 years old. My first night hike was all night in the southern Sierra Madre mountains in central Mexico, 1979. From El Crucero to Talpa. No water, no light, no food. I know, dumb. I don't recommend it. One of my friend's mother. Did the PCT in the early 80's. No cell phones, ultra light, gps. Only map, compass and guts. I think people should take advantage of the wonderful technology that we have. I do. I'm what some would call a section hiker. All in the SoCal area except for the grand canyon, Sedona and a very small part in the South mountains of Virginia. There is something about short hikes with no trail or vanishing trails than a structured long trail. What are your thoughts on that? Thank you.
@Amy Sternheim Perfect ;) (bet there's a bunch of quizzical looks on the fence comment)
I'm glad you mentioned that you carry soap. I'm surprised at how many hikers are not carrying soap. Seems that most are relying on hand sanitizer. With the current outbreak of Norovirus on the trail it is very important that you have the ability to wash your hands as hand sanitizer is not very effective with noro. I have shuttled a lot of sick hikers from the trail into Erwin this year dealing with an illness that may have been avoided with better hygiene. I even keep soap in the car as well as hand sanitizer while running shuttles due to the high number of sick hikers I encounter.
Biggest problem with the store (when I hiked in 1998)was that the hostel’s plumbing pipes did not have insulation. So if there was even the slightest HINT of a chance that the weather would go below freezing- they would drain the pipes and close the hostel. Since so many people start early in the year... the bulk of the people who wanted a shower were very disappointed.
Great video but since you are discussing dropping things...."DROP" 3 minutes and 50 seconds on the front end please.
LOL, well done, this gave me a good laugh. I agree, was a little long winded. I adjusted my comment that I pinned the top to the time that people can skip right to the list.
I hiked SOBO in 04 with almost no backpacking experience, that was true for a number of folks that I hiked with. Most of those people finsined the trail very few got off. I truly feel that a SOBO hike is tourgher and attractes individuals with strong mental fortitude, figuring out what you should get rid of on your own after 100 miles with out some one helping you decide what you don't need. Plus a south bound hike is the way the ATC intended the trail to be hiked, look at any of the literature, clothing, or guid books and they all read AT Main to Georgia.
I would always want to save the best for last. I agree South bond hikers are a different bread. Since I live in New England it’s like coming home. The only down side is I have hiked the hell out of New England so it’s not new.
Dr. Bronners makes a bar soap also. Much lighter and no worry of leaks
I've been reading comments saying this is '"too much information" KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!!! you guys are missing out!! Learn as much as you can so you can be the absolute most prepared you can be!!
Regarding bear spray, lots of people drop it when they leave the trail because you can't take it with you on the plane (not even in checked luggage) which might give the impression it's unnecessary.
He is talking about people dumping it on the trial. I can’t remember the last time I have seen anyone carrying bear spray on the AT. It’s not really needed along with a bear can.
Woo! I just got mine in the mail and it is true that Turbo setting is quite right
He finally gets around to telling us the first item at 3:35. The dude is LONG WINDED
Nice video thanks my friend from Minnesota has a cabin up by lake of the woods take care brother need some summer shandies them linies are tasty
Cotton? That just seams dumb. My parents who used to hike mountains A LOT back in the day (they r 75/76 now) (my dad did his last half dome in Yosemite hike a few yrs back when he was 72), taught me from a young age to wear linnen under with wool over and for socks wear silk liners with wool over.
Great vid! Some very good pointers. I am like you, I always carry a travel size deodorant. One other thing I carry, is a small soap bar that you can get from hotels. I stick it in a zip lock bag and use it to wash my hands. The weight is negligible and the benefits are obvious.
Thank you so much...under 20 pounds...so accessible. Im at 18...with fuel...very accurate for realistic weights
we were going north on AT from springer... a few days in we found all kinds of gear and food; expensive sweaters and other clothes, all sorts of can foods. these were shoved under rocks and in branches. later on around Blood mountain we found a hiker that was using old military gear. I suspect he was the one lighting his load. He just up and decided to start hiking. his tennis shoes told his story. he told us he hiked one day and rested the next. later we noticed two men that also didn't need to be on trail. one was a lawyer the other IRS agent both aged 55. these guys were confused as to which was to go and asked us (experienced hiker scouts) where water was on the trail. we met them at wa-lasi-ya center grabing all kinds of food; those cans may have been theirs. told them to get a topo map and mark all water points on the trail and boil it before drinking.
Someone (trail angels/outfitters) should offer a "permethrin soak" for clothing items on the trail. A soak bucket, a squirt of permethrin concentrate and a gallon of water and, a clothes line. Socks, shorts, shirt, hat, sun gloves, gaiters and all your camp night wear. I think that the US military does not soak undergarments because if you have it on the outer clothes, bugs won't make it to the underwear (not because it's harmful).
Any tutorials on this?
Ben Kelly. There is a 0.5% of pemetherin to water where it becomes effective. Most concentrate isn't 100% (the bottle I have is 37%). So in the instructions for the bottle you buy, find how many ounces to put in a gallon to get to the effective 0.5%. Then dunk/soak clothes in, then hang dry out of direct sun. Don't wring out completely. Just so it's still a little drippy is good. Good for 6-8 washes or about 2-3 months. Wearing yellow rubber dishwash gloves are a good choice.
Amazon sells 24 oz Sawyer spray permethrin 0.5%. Enough to treat 4 outfits or gear, tent, bags, nets, etc. Lasts about 42 days or 6 washings.
@@bobbyg65 I just found a large bottle at WalMart too, just sprayed down all my stuff... we'll see how effective it is, but half the reviews on Amazon are from people that say it even kept the bugs off 'em in Africa!!
biggest thing i learned was to start with a size of shoes 1 size bigger than normal as your feet will swell and you will get blisters if you start with your normal shoe size.
Very interesting video. Thanks!
I’m really curious about the hand washing set up you mentioned. Can you talk a little more about that or show an example? I wear contacts and being able to wash my hands is important.
Thanks!!!
Sure thing. I think the best way is to show an example. Maybe that's a video I can try and pre record before I go out to Scotland to drop during May,
I'm hiking late. Starting June 2nd. Pack weight is barely hitting 35 pounds but I keep unpacking it trying to figure out what I don't need the best info I got from the video that I'm able to use now is my medical kit. It's already small to start off with but honestly I think I'm just going to need a bottle of ibuprofen and tape for the toes.
Interesting. I've never done that kind of hiking before and I'm very unlikely to do it now (probably not a good idea for someone who uses a cane), but it's still very interesting. I'm not sure why this ended up on my recommendeds, but it's generally good info for ppl that are into hiking.
Another good video, Bigfoot! More good, useful information!
Wish you had talked more about rain jackets
I met a hiker in mid Pa. Carried 3 pillows from the start . This was before the inflatables we're invented. He was considering dropping one✌️
When I thru hiked the PCT (which has a much farther distance between most resupplies) I vlogged and made videos and still did not need more than a 10kmAh power bank
starts @3:20
heavy leaf bag for each big gear. the bags have many uses.
For me silk undergarments are a must including liner socks. Less chafing and fewer blisters.
Thanks for the excellent advice and suggestions.
I was never interested in a through-hike, but have been spending time on the AT on and off for 50 years so far. One thing I almost never see addressed is that many people have problems wearing synthetics. Somewhere in the order of 7 to 15% of Americans develop skin problems and have to use a natural fiber as a base layer. I've been using a combination of silk, wool, and and lightweight cotton, and using good quality synthetics for middle and top layers for warmth and water repellent properties. Silk seems to wick the moisture away almost as good as a good "wicking" fiber, and in addition doesn't make me stink like synthetics, negating the need for deodorants. Also, I found that using a soap made with thinner oils such as Kirk's Castile rather than Dr. Bronner's helps prevent body odors. I guess we each need to try different things to find out what works.
Keep on hicking!
@@ThePrairieChronicles There are plenty of us out there. I don't know if there's a correlation, but I am also intolerant to hair products. I can never use shampoo or rinse or any other commercial product. After a haircut, even though nothing but water is used, my scalp will start itching within an hour, and bleeding within 12 unless I wash the hair well. Movie theater seats and airline seats have to be covered so I don't get products transfered. Another reason to use Kirk's for all my washing on the trail; body, clothing, cooking.
OMG, my old backpack weighed in at 40-60 pounds, depending on the camera gear and trail building tools.
And that was on steep mountain trails in the west.
Way back in history, when we were still primitive and using imperial measurements, my standard was 35 lbs. I remember sitting on top of a mountain we had just summitted, and I asked my mate if he fancied a beer, He was aghast..."don't tell me you lugged beer all the way up this mountain?" I replied, " no, you did. I stashed it in the bottom of your pack!" Oh yes, payback WAS a bitch!
yea, and you were hiking thru 6 ft of snow....
For me, it was the hairdryer. It actually didn't weigh very much but that extension cord was a backbreaker!
I use a Honda generator, I save weight because I can use a short cord . ✌️
Around forty years ago my older sister brought a HAIR DRIER camping in the woods! Haha
I’m really impressed by the quality of your videos, lots of information and new angles. All by yourself, you improved the setup of Zpacks Duplex, better than their own instructions, great work!
Thanks Raymond, that means a lot!!!!
My no.1 gear dump? My mobile blacksmithing gear.
Foolishly, I thought I could make a lot of trail friends by helping them fix their vintage, hipster iron and steel gear products.
Boy, was I wrong. Not only did nobody seem to be using vintage gear made of iron or steel, but I have found that ever since I began regularly eating roasted garlic to ward off ticks and misquitos I have also been warding off potential trail friends.
Man, I cannot believe I was stupid enough to pack a 15-pound anvil, a seven-pound hammer, and six-pound tongs. I will never make that mistake again. Live and learn, I guess. Live and learn...
😂
Damned if you do damned if you don't .
Did you not bring any bellows? Damned if you do, damned if you don’t
On my last trip I used everything but some extra food 😂 the things I wish I would have had were; a space blanket, a better 🪚 saw, a small fuel container 🫙 and a better power bank. Going to make some upgrades before my next trip and try to bring more minimal but better quality food.
Hadn't seen the new decor for your videos. Love the little trees with the white blazes! :)
Thanks Lu!
Good eye. Just seen that as well
Good video, very useful. But about the musquito patches: I suggest to do some research before buying. They seem to be citronella-based. There is not enough scientific evidence that citronella works. For DEET there is, but it has some disadvantages. There is a natural alternative: citriodiol (also known as PMD ( p-menthane 3,8-diol)). A 2006 study shows it is just as effective as DEET if used in the right quantities and relatively harmless. But don’t believe me, look it up yourself.
think about chemical water purification..... filters are great when they work......they are mechanical and subject to breakdowns...... lack of hydration will stop you in your tracks.....something such as aquamira drops can save you......unless you love boiling till you get where you're going...... I would at least keep some tabs in the first aid.....chlorine dioxide is all that will reliably kill chrypto.....
I would also suggest taking a survival class and a wilderness first aid class.......if not only for yourself you can help others along the trail that may be in trouble......
Thanks for the tips and tricks. As a frequent visitor to BWCA (shout out to Enlighted Equipment, Winona MN) I am all about lightening my load when portaging. How many hikers are wearing New shoes breaking them in on trek - OMG talk about sore feet. Break them in, treat with MINK OIL, at least a week before.
My INCH bag kit came to 70 lbs so I had to reduce weight and volume. My clothing had been almost all cotton because that is what I owned. Now I have switched most of it to synthetics. This has saved a lot of weight and space. The synthetics are at least 75% lighter and take 75% of the room.
Also my first aid kit is way too heavy so I will be doing a vid on lightening that too.
I have already micro managed and reduced over 4 lbs just with that.
My next steps will be a bit more expensive. Those include a lighter more compact tarp and tent. Those will save about another 3 lbs and reduce bulk by over 25%.
Also because it is an INCH bag I had a lot of batteries but now have 2 small light weight solar chargers and am switching to all rechargeable batteries which means I don't need as many and they have a lot more longevity.
Also because it is an INCH bag I carry almost 20 lbs of food. I probably won't reduce that, but have food that is nutritious, light weight, and a good variety. See my video on the food I carry.
Thanks for all your videos.
We used to walk out to the local lake from my parents house.
The trail was less than 2 miles.
For some odd reason, people left clothes on the trail, often including underwear.
Ran across a guy in ga on the back side of blood mountain carrying a large cast iron frying pan. He said he was headed to Maine. I wonder how long before he ditched that heavy pan.
I did that once for a week long hike! When I was a kid we would brag about who had the heaviest pack and I was trying to win. A friend beat me by carrying five bricks.
@@rbrooke2379 I ran into a young section hiker in the White Mountains last year who was wearing ceramic ArNG body armor and carrying a 30-lb ruck.
The most useless item I ever carried, and I’ve done the Annapurna trek, as well as backpacking most of Europe over 5 years I lived in England, was a headlamp in Alaska. I hiked Kesugi Ridge, and Eagle River to Girdwood and back. However, it was mid summer, and it was light 24 hours a day.
They are actually not in Blairsville which is a town about 10 miles away.
I found much value from your video. I. too am from MN and it's nice to see you look similar to my family. HAGS
I wear Salomon's at work and put them thru a lot. For my part they wear like a 10 but I wear a 9 1\2. I know they are expensive but I have foot pain and they give me a lot of support so that's why I wear them. Have not been hiking in a long time but see no reason they would not hold up on a tough trail.
OOO! Excited to try those patches. My son gets horrible welts when he gets bitten. Always looking for new things to try for mosquitoes.
I remember that you have a black diamond spot I have a lamp that you liked very much what made you change over to the NItecore 25?
Based on my experience, the sawyer micro is not as good than the sawyer squeeze. The sawyer micro needs to be back flushed frequently and I’m not willing to carry the syringe with me. I changed it out for the sawyer squeeze and water if slowing again. Happy Easter (Trails)
I take along the blue coupler so that I can just back flush with a water bottle. Sawyer should just put couplers in their kit and not even bother with supplying a syringe.
But before a trip the syringe has a use in making diluted permethrin solutions from a concentrate. I don't spray my clothing, but soak things in a plastic bag with a minimal amount of permethrin solution, so that almost none needs to be disposed of after hanging up soaked clothes to dry. Wear nitrile gloves for safety when doing all this.
my mini works great! Backflush it using your Smartwater bottle; fits nicely and is easier than a syringe etc
I think the smallest one is way too slow to squeeze through.
Why are so many people hiking with a guitar? It's insane. Those things are bulky and weighty. It makes no sense.
Musicians gotta scratch that itch!
@Amy Sternheim My dear, why oh why do you feel the need to tell these whoppers? There is no way anyone can thru hike that trail with a tuba. It appears you have some sort of "infatuation" with this guy. That's your business, not ours. However my dear, when you tell these whoppers it affects us all. Let's just step back into reality, OK? Hope this helps!
@Amy Sternheim You need to just simmer down missy! And.. stop with the VIVID imagination... You're dismissed!
Nice boomerposting
@@sussurus I fear you have no idea what you are talking about!
Clicked on this because I wanted to know what a "gear hiker" is and why they are ditching the AT after 30 miles. Feeling dumb now 😆
never thought about my filter freezing. good tip.
Many portable filters are porous ceramics. Saturate. Freeze. Useless.
I've never done much hiking camping mostly as a Boy Scout. Hiker stench we used to go to summer camp two weeks on a lake in Maine mosquitoes were so bad we use skunk oil to keep them off. The stuff was basically skunk oil with a few other ingredients but yeah nobody worried about stench we all smelled like we got skunked
One time I bathed in apple cider vinegar and nothing wanted to eat me for a whole week. I just put have a gal in some bath water. I soaked for maybe 10 minutes. (Water was too hot). And then washed after that.
Does anyone try to do it with nothing but a knife?
Nice hat man. They need to make one with the princess mononoke deer God silhouette on it!