ALL the best for your ‘Yomp’ Royal👍. As we said In the Infantry always follow the 7 P’s “Proper Planning & Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance”, “Fail to,prepare,Prepare to fail”, and my fave from Arctic Warfare training “Never eat yellow snow” lol 😂.. I am 58, and off on the 613 mile South West Coastal Path in May something I have done five times in my life. Except this time weight is important,due to back issues from the Army service (shortened vertebrates),a md I am type 2 Diabetic..lucky enough on that walk there are plenty of villages,towns to get food supplies, so that is a blessing.. As for footcare, blister prevention I always use vaseline. Then using talc in the evening to dry feet.. Please do keep us updated on how it’s going Nick.. All the very best Royals 👍👏
O.K. Nick: pretty cool! I’m off this spring (May time) for my 4th Camino hike in Spain: the Primitivo from Oviedo through to Santiago de Compostela which is 315 km! This I’m doing to celebrate my 80th birthday! I reckon to take about 20 days! So I’ll say enjoy yours and hopefully I’ll have a Buen Camino! 👣🦉👍😎
Nice to see the cigar cutter there. I used to do night shifts as a hospital porter and after a a lengthy week / ten day shift, I'd have a decent Cuban (Romeo Y Julieta, usually). There's something about having a cigar after a lot of walking that makes sense. Good call.
Hi Nick. Nice looking pack. You probably want to shy away from the MTP design,but I’ve just got hold of a new virtus G10 mkIII. Great pack to carry,with a lot of weight in it. Got a pair of rocket pouches for it too,to add a bit more room for cook sets,etc. Pretty comfy,and carries well with the new padded waist belt. Good luck with your trip. Regards.
First thing to say is good luck Nick. I am sure you will enjoy it. I’m also sure you will finish the hike and learn a lot from the experience. There are tips and tricks and strategies that will become routine, like heat regulation using hat/gloves and loosing a layer before you start up a gradient. It’s also a fact that you will never carry this much weight again on a multi-day hike. Once you have finished the hike, be sure to pay attention to what you do not use and to what you could have improvised using something else. To give you a head-start down this iterative process, I make some suggestions below; take them or leave them. For perspective, the most similar trek I’ve done to your plan is a 4.5 day 160km through-hike in late February in Sweden. I carried just over 4kg base weight (so not counting food or drink or the clothes you are hiking in). If I were doing proper “shake-down” of your kit spread across the floor, I would loose you several kilograms very easily without you having to spend any money. So, feedback on what I can see in the video without unpacking and feeling everything myself: The pile-and-pertext softshell top will be awesome. As will your headtorch. You can get much lighter rear cycle lights or just use a strip of reflective tape (e.g. cut off a high-viz vest) if there could be road sections you end up having to do in the dark. Double-bagging clothes and sleep system is a good idea. However, the rucksack cover is not necessary and may blow around in a strong breeze. It's a sail - loose it. Excellent you have a down bag. Also camp clothes (spare thermals) to sleep in to extend its range if you need it. Obviously, put up the tent several times in the back garden before you go. Is it even all there? Put a garden hose over it to check the seams for leaks you might need to seal. Can you put it up in the dark? A strong wind? Do the pegs bend too easily and need to be swapped out? But wait, you are carrying a tent AND a bivvy bag? One or the other mate. If the tent has too much airflow (i.e. is a meshy summer tent), take the bivvy. If you do decide on the tent, forget the bivvy, and you don’t need all of that cordage - check how much you need when you set the tent up and pre-attach it before you go. Drop the rest. Next time you should replace it with much lighter line than paracord. Those strip maps are the business. Good call. Treking poles are helpful for big loads, especially in slippery mud in the winter. If you have not used them before it may take a few hours to develop a rhythm of using them. Extend for downhill. Dehydrated food is good. Dried meat for protein is great. 3L camelback? It’s good to have the capacity once you have set up camp and need to cook, but I hope you don’t plan to carry all that during the day (3kg!). When using the drinking hose, be sure to blow back the water up into the reservoir (and have that next to your back) so the water cannot freeze in the hose or reservoir. Even if the hose is insulated, it can still freeze, especially near the bite valve. Don’t use the anti-inflammatories or pain killers as you walk - pain is your body’s way of telling you it is being damaged by what you are doing. You need to be able to hear what your body is telling you so you can adjust. Much better to use the medication at the end of the day to get a good night’s sleep if you have to. Do yourself a favour and go to any chemists or high street pharmacist and add some Compeed to treat developing hot spots on your feet as soon as you feel them. You don't need to have your first aid kit in a metal tin. Change underwear every day and socks every 2 days. In general, you are carry more wet wipes, toilet roll, detergent, fat wood, fuel plugs, etc than you will use in 4 days. Take smaller amounts and decant into smaller packages. Do you have a tiny aluminium/plastic trowel for a cat hole and hand sanitiser? Things can become unexpectedly urgent after pushing your body for a few days. Why are you carrying material for wood fires AND carrying a gas stove AND carrying a heavy thermos flask? Just the stove should do it. Take a full gas canister and it should last 4 days. Remember you will be passing cafes, petrol stations and shops on the way on that lowland route - and the owners are well aware of the passing trade. This is also important to remember when carrying food and water - only carry enough to get you to your next resupply plus a little insurance to account for half a day delay, such as chocolate and a packet of dried noodles. The rucksack you just bought will do fine for several years as you go through the trim down process. If you can already loose some weight from your load this trip, remove that extra 10L pouch on the back of the sack. Not only should you not need the extra capacity (it’s a massive sack already), but adding weight further away from your center of mass is a really really bad idea - the physics of “moments” means the same weight at a greater distance requires more force to counteract. Not good for your back mate. It looks like a nice pod that I am certain you could put to good use in your other activities. Likewise, don’t ever leave stuff loosely swinging on the outside of your pack. Waste of energy. All the kit you show is single person. Are you sharing any load at all with your hiking mate? Communal kit could be: stove and fuel, cooking pots and their cleaning kit, 2 person tent, navigation, food, water sterilisation/filtration, photography equipment, first aid kit, toilet kit. Get your heads together to see what the overlap is and where weight can be shared. I hope all that did not sound negative. The last thing I want to do is kill your enthusiasm for a new sport that has given me so much joy and fulfillment over the year, so I hope you read all this in the spirit it was offered. Again, best of luck!!!
Gt. video Nick, hope all is going well. My only observation is simple this….. you can take the man out of the Corps, but you can’t take the Corps out of the man😂 Think lighter, Think multi-use. Will look forward to your debrief after the event. Regards from deepest Dorset 👍
Excellent video as usual Nick. Still makes me chuckle having come from Somerset and now in British Columbia the difference in kit for out here. No need for bear bangers or bear spray in Somerset! ;-)
Splash Maps - where have you been all my life!!! Just ordered one for the place I keep going back to - the Anglesey bit of the Wales Coastal Path. Great videos!!
Those maps are cool, kind of like special forces maps printed on silk. The only problem is I have a habit of hiking inland for a night or two when I am hiking the coastal path, especially when you are near Exmoor you have to just too many awesome pubs that need a visiting ha. The pee bottle thing is a good idea, I actually like getting up in the night for a pee, I like to stand up have a stretch, stomp about a little then get back into my sack. Good kit & lots of it.
Great break down - lots of kit there! Looking forward to seeing the trip and it will be good to see which items got the most use and which you’d maybe leave behind next time.
Hey Nick, I didn't realise you were doing the SDW! You're going to chuckle when i tell you that me and a mate attempted to do it in 2 days a few years back (having got far too over confident doing something similar the year before). We carried everything we'd need to camp out on the trail but based on our previous experiences, went as light as we possibly could. We were prepared physically and had the kit nailed down but we both had a few other things going on which meant we weren't prepared mentally. We started at Eastbourne and got to Steyning bowl by last light, knackered! The following morning we got as far as Chanctonbury ring and decided to bin it. I've been meaning to go back and finish what we started for years now. After watching your prep vid, perhaps this could be the year... BTW I was carrying 4 maps :-)
Can you please put a link for your jacket, I can’t for the life of me pick up what you called it in the video (ear problems). It does sort of look like the goochi stuff I saw getting issued to the British army (snugpak?), After I got out lol 😂. I actually have been using a parachute jacket since around 1998 when I bought two from BATUS Tailor shop lady (English) who made them up and sold them. I was for sure sceptical first time wearing it in the field in Canadian winter, but was very surprised at how warm it kept me. When I travel overseas I always use a rucksack, went through a few brand names over the years but about 5-6 years ago I came across TT in a store in Calgary Alberta. The store also carried M249 magazine pouches which gave me the ad on factor on the flat front. Couple of things in your video I’m going to use (kindle plastic egg, and Blue micro light), I had seen the blue light years ago and bought some for that purpose. But then put them somewhere and forgot lol. (Old timers syndrome), but otherwise my ruck is pretty similar to your load out. Love your show, I pass your name around my ex-military buddies and civvie outdoorsy folks here locally and around Alberta. Trying to find your new book but might be too new to be getting listed/available here in canada 🇨🇦
Your bottle reminds me of our old PB's, we added a sponge or 2 in it so that it didnt slosh around too much. Great channel, quite enjoy it and look forward to the next posts on your trip! ps. Something you might like regarding a light source. check out the MPOWERD Luci Inflatable Solar Light Outdoor Solar Powered LED Lantern. I've had mine for a few years and still going strong. I think they've got a newer version but if its as rugged and reliable as the first gen. You might see some good use out of it.
Hi. Thank you once again for a really great and informative video. Lots of ideas for me to process. stay safe and good luck on the expedition. ATB. Nigel.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Saffer mate once told me it was Biltong that wonthe boer war….brits had to stop for food and rest whilst the boers had a bunch of biltong stapped to their sides and could move about freely picking the brits off….without stopping…the perfect guerilla warfare grub back then…
Another great vid Nick, looking forward to seeing more of the journey, splash maps 😀💦👍, what a brilliant idea. One question I have is, how go about camping in such a popular place considering UK access/camping laws? Cheers Nick, take care, Nige.
I love a good challenge myself...i often set goals for the coming months...crossing mountain ranges and bagging peaks is my thing....at my age i try and keep my base weight under 15 pounds, never carrying more than i think i'll need for a four to six day trek...in winter i use a 10f down sleeping bag and light weight bivy..extra clothing consists of extra socks and a pair of briefs a puffy and wind/rain jacket. My pack i is either a HMG Dyneema Southwest 4400ci or an external frame Seek Outside 4800 ci Unaweep made from Xpac material...both seam sealed and waterproof and very tough materials...the HMG weight empty is 2.5 lbs...the Seek Outside comes in at 3.25 lbs. While i love my Military packs for overniters and such...when pounding out more than twenty miles a day, day after day i need to be as light as possible. I think you have covered all your bases my friend...i wish you fair weather and good health on your adventure!...atvb...David
Harvey Maps are great they have a whole series of them of trails in the UK. I use the Harvry Map for the West Highland Way.However, the Splash Map version are quiet expernsive to the normal Harvey Maps.
After you video about sleeping bags, I went to an army surplus store and got me a British army medium sleeping bag. And it’s bloody magic. That along with a NATO patrol bag, £ 65 all in. Great stuff
That is a thorough kit review. I am looking forward to the video or videos of your your ruck march. And how that Catoma Burrow holds up. Looks good for a summer season shelter but in cold? Not sure.
A really interesting video, thank you. I guess the trek is done now, so how did it go? I always like seeing other peoples kit for treks and camping, I personally try to carry less water these days as its so heavy and your three litres is a lot of weight to be lugging around. I've used a Sawyer mini but i've just bought a Grayl Geopress and will aim to replenish frequently as the Grayl takes out the pesticides and fertiliser residues which normally make lowland water unusable. Good luck with all your ventures I really enjoy your videos. I live in North Somerset and would like to come and do a course with you sometime soon to develop my growing interest in bushcraft. All the best.
I'm currently creating a bug-out bag and this video was very useful. For food, I dehydrated plenty of meat and veg, then blitzed each item into powder and put them into vacuum bags, to reduce space and weight. I'll be living off nourishing soups and dehydrated mashed potato. Now I'm off to watch your "map and compass" video. Many thanks for your videos. All the best.
Great video! I've only just started out on my outdoor adventures at the ripe old age of 50, but rest assured, I'll be coming back to this vid when I get to the point of longer walks and overnighters. Best of luck, dude........btw, loved the BBC feature 👍
Nick, good luck to you and your pal on this adventure. I am sure that you will do fine. I really like the pack. Which version is it? Maybe I missed that in your narrative? :)
Thanks Nick. You mentioned a few times in the short videos that your pack weight was heavy. What would you have changed knowing what you know now? Keep up the great work. Outdoor activity is one of the best mental health therapies in my humble opinion.
So timely! I'm setting off to do Braunton to Newquay - just under 130 miles - next week. I'll be going solo and I'm a 58 year old spring chicken, so, I know how you feel. I've decided to take my Nordisk Telemark tent rather than the Rab Ridgeraider. We will see. With a bivvy you can dive over a fence and be sorted in a few minutes. My biggest concern? Getting the miles in versus short days. I don't like trying to find a pitch in the dark but I don't want to sit in my tent for 14 hours! Can't decide. We will see.
Great kit nick in the process of mking a few changes to mine do you stick with slightly heavier bomb proof gear or go lightweight m8 gonna give this a lot of thought and study .love the tasmanian tiger pack a lot of guys in new Zealand use those very popular over there can understand why great bit of kit .good luck on the trail hope things go well 👍
Just bought one of these maps on your recommendation Nick, got one for the Hadrians Wall route im planning on doing in a couple of weeks.This video has given me lots of ideas, thank you
Thanks for this and good luck, I’m starting my own challenge in March, walking the south west coast path doing it in weekly sections. My kit is a bit similar though not quite so Gucci all carried in a pussers bergan
I heard you say you cleaned and prepped your boots. You might tell the nubes out there I'd make sure they were broken in but not worn out. I wish I could still go 100 miles. But I'm almost double your age and everything is worn out. I also don't drink hot liquid in cold weather as it's like having a wood stove near the thermostat in your house the rest of the rooms don't get any heat because the central heat shuts off, when your core senses the heat in the coffee, tea ,etc you provide less heat to your extremities which where I am can cause frostbite 🥶
THANKS NICK for showing the thought behind your kit and what you have think about when going on a long expedition what you need is essential. Have a Blessed day..🙏👍😁
I wouldn't worry too much about getting your bag out early to loft. They only get compressed in they are stored for a fair while. A day in your pack won't do anything. Just don't pack 'em away wet (don't get 'em wet full stop tbh :-) )
My favourite place in the South East of England. I tend to use it for mountain biking rather than walking, and must have covered in excess of 6,000 miles to date. Even in the worst of winter weather, with cold horizontal rain, nothing beats the feeling of well being that the Downs give. The prevailing winds make West to East the best option. There is also many well placed water refill points should you need them. The water points are generally detailed on maps.
Nick you are a legend! Liked the intro. I think you were carrying too much kit but you have to learn by experience. Never forgetting that what works for your audience may not work for you! Yomping along a long distance trail and being self sufficient is different from being in that military mindset where you are a "Donkey Soldier! " Some of the previous comments reflect this aspect. However the principles are the same (wet and dry routine etc.) civvy kit is different as you are well aware. Weight is the major impact factor. It is a very fine balance between the cost of the kit you choose and can afford, against its weight. Like the Splash Maps. I have used the Collins A to Z National Trails (1:25,000) but they are in a small book form so they have to be weather proofed. The journey continues!
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Now that you have finished the walk, now is the time to reflect on what went well, what did not go work out and coming back to the subject of kit, what did you take that you did not use? Was that unused kit necessary (spare minimal clothing - yes - shower in can, fat wood stick with ferrol rod, three litres of water to carry - perhaps no). To keep your basic weight down one has to be ruthless with your "after Ops debrief!"
Good stuff Nick. Good luck to you. Can't ever go wrong with some Skittles while hiking. I like Jolly Ranchers too. Instant morale boost. Look forward to seeing video of the trail. Take care
Where do you stand legally when it comes to camping in the south downs. As I understand it you are only allowed to camp overnight in Scotland and on Dartmoor. Thanks for the video and all the great tips.
Thanks Nick. Lovely to watch all your kit ideas. Looks pretty heavy bro (and probably you'll need it all). The walk is awesome and hopefully you won't wake up with too much ice on the tent (or in). I just swapped over to Huel for my rations and snacks. And if it gets too cold at night, just jump up and walk a bit, it's an awesome experience walking at night, but I'm sure you know. I'd highly recommend paramo gear too, you can really live in it. And if your ever in London and want to check out some yoga for your back, look me up Hamish
Hi ya mate I walked it last September from Winchester to eastbourne.its a great walk ,the only thing I found was woods become thin on the ground the closer to Eastbourne you get so I had to book a couple of campsite on route so not to stay in an angry famer field.ps trueleigh hill YMCA does pizza and beer and it's bang on route at about 5pm,good luck
Good demonstration of kit breakdown but I used to find on long treks I found some kit wasn't much good but mistakes were rectified on the next trip the main thing always got right was my clothing and sleep system thank you for a excellent video ♠️
Splash maps looks cool. I was going to buy one off the back of your review, as South Downs way is on my 'to do' list. but the cost of them seems a bit daft.
I'm not being a troll. I think they look great, but I already bought the Way Adventure Atlas book (1:25000 os map of the route) for £7.. and would probably use my phone with viewranger (free) for my primary navigation. Great video by the way. I love your content!
Splash Maps seem super cool, seen them a couple times before but never looked into the pricing. 30 pounds seems a bit steep, however, it's important to remember that sometimes you really do get what you pay for.
G,day Nick Have you thought about adding a small tube of Paw Paw ointment. Good for scratches and grazes. Seriously good stuff. Thought the house, the car and my other gear I've got about 5 tubes of it. All the best. Bluey
Fantastic overview Nick. i didn't catch the complete weight. i am interested because i tackle the two moors way in April, having been of poor health for 10 years, plus, its important to challenge ourselves as you say. i am hoping to kick start the Spring and my future. Keep up the superb work with Warrior and the channel. ATVB2U and yours Scott, Somerset
Great to see your kit set up. I've recently been swapping my pack and kit about, for best access and weight distribution. Always customizing.. Keep up the good work. 👍
Great Vid Nick, I hope your trip was a massive brilliant adventure. I'm 50 and have had Kidney cancer, Aortic heart valve replacement, and suffered from siezures as a child. I enlisted in the Army but the next month my dad past due to a ten yr. Sickness. The stress and loss led to me not being able to go, I tried many times after to enlist but was rejected by every branch. I understand about physical limitations due to health and now age. But, you have to have a Never give up, Keep on keepin on, Obtain the objective, Complete the mission mindset. Otherwise, life will break you. All the best. Keep on truckin. Makes me want to go on a long ruck, just for shits and giggles 😁👍🌟🍺 Cheers mate. Ps. Could you send a link for the pack and add on, I love that.
sudocrem is ace for nut rash, i have mixed it with germolene before to make it less like crotch concrete on the go. pretty well thought out kit muster there though Nick, looking forward to the (virtual) trek.
Allow the sweat to happen and keep personal admin in check. The chaffing will happen anyway on a long tab, its keeping it low level and controlled makes tabber a happy lad.
@@roosterneck2158 Disagree mate, I will stick to my British Army Infantry training incl Junior Brecon ,that I myself used and taught for 15 years . Skin rubbing leads to blisters,and soreness fact. ‘ prevention always better than a cure’.. fact.. 👍
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Very versatile 3 season and can be pitched in several ways and made into a 4 season tent. Can also be used as a cot tent. Worth a squizz perhaps if you have time on a future adventure. Good luck with your current planned adventure.
Hi, nice video. Thank you for that. what type of TT rucksack is that. is it the new OPS 80/24 or which one? I’m thinking about getting annew one from TT.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Thanks for you fast response. I’m thinking about that pack too. But after the release of the new ops 80/24 which is also used by the german special forces I wasn’t sure which one would be better. But now your video has showed me, that the raid pack is big enough for all the stuff I would carry for a longer trip. Thanks for that. I’m looking forward for the videos about your trip. Regards
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Thanks. I've heard that too. We will see. Hope the South Downs Way is proving fun. I used to walk it when I was a lad. Ditchling Beacon comes easily to mind. Also, some school boy fun and later, army fun around Amberley.
What do you think of Iodine as a water cleaning solution? I've got a few chlorine tabs I keep in my pack in case of proper emergencies but I hear most lads use iodine in their camelpaks on long outings? Any thoughts or you just use it for the first aid? Cheers man, always appreciate the tips.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 As far as I can tell they're about the same in terms of steralising, of course you wouldn't want to rub chlorine in a wound so perhaps the iodine is a more all round solution haha. Cheers again!
Sorry, but this is the problem I have. I "cycle" and have just come back from a 2000 km Japan trip. I "planned" and having done long distance before "thought " I knew what to take. on the return leg, I sent back 5 kg. With no problem. In other words, I took too much stuff. You are walking ( I was cycling ) ... it will be wake up, start a fire, coffee, pack away, start walking. Lunch will be as easy as can be (homemade energy bars for me) . walk. find a place to sleep. Cook, drink ( cocoa or a small whiskey ) sleep ( here in Japan a bivi and a hammock as sometimes you cant find a bivi "site" ) Sleep is important so I go sleep heavy I use a plash planka ( Russian tarp poncho made from canvas ) a Swagman poncho liner ( doubles as a sleeping bag ) and an under hammock down blanket. and an outdoors research bivi.....With a german foldable groundsheet. The plash planka folds over the under hammock down blanket and inside that is the swagman. "if" I have a drink before bed, I get up and curse, Usually I'm tired and sleep through, I have two cook systems one dual fuel and one titanium foldable "firebox" ..... For "food " I found flour and "johnnycakes" to be the easiest just a dough ( which lasts for days and seems to get better the longer you leave it !!!! and a lump of meat and some form of vege .... As for hygiene wet wipes and essential oils ( peppermint and lemon ) " be careful where you use the lemon ....trust me " That map you have loos "great" lots of info for the surrounding area BUT England being similar to Japan ... I use the sun because you are never going to get lost .... America Nevada desert is another story but England and japan,, there is a 7/11 within reach ( I started using the sun after I got caught in a typhoon, the tablet was in 2 plastic bags AND STILL got wet and stopped working, I don't now how but when I went to use it .... full of water Useless!!!) Now I just use the sun and talk to locals ! lease when you get back from your tri could you do an "honest " review of what you "actually " used . than you for your channel ,especially when you tal about your "feelings" thank you ! from Japan !
Might have been better to lay the kit out so we could see everything, go through it and then pack it to show the method. Also the lighting in that room wasn't good. But thanks anyway.
I don't understand why you still carry a pack that weighs a ton empty. I get the fact it might be bomb proof but you're not throwing it in the back of a bedford or kicking it in a shell scrape any longer. Get yourself an Osprey at half the weight. I'm ex Guards and wouldn't be seen dead in military kit any more. Go full civvy but keep the skills. Look forward, not back. It helps the healing process
ALL the best for your ‘Yomp’ Royal👍. As we said In the Infantry always follow the 7 P’s “Proper Planning & Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance”, “Fail to,prepare,Prepare to fail”, and my fave from Arctic Warfare training “Never eat yellow snow” lol 😂.. I am 58, and off on the 613 mile South West Coastal Path in May something I have done five times in my life. Except this time weight is important,due to back issues from the Army service (shortened vertebrates),a md I am type 2 Diabetic..lucky enough on that walk there are plenty of villages,towns to get food supplies, so that is a blessing.. As for footcare, blister prevention I always use vaseline. Then using talc in the evening to dry feet.. Please do keep us updated on how it’s going Nick.. All the very best Royals 👍👏
O.K. Nick: pretty cool! I’m off this spring (May time) for my 4th Camino hike in Spain: the Primitivo from Oviedo through to Santiago de Compostela which is 315 km! This I’m doing to celebrate my 80th birthday! I reckon to take about 20 days! So I’ll say enjoy yours and hopefully I’ll have a Buen Camino! 👣🦉👍😎
And i thought i was to old to go Wild camping aged 71!
@@johnmudd6453 well John to be honest I’m 35 years old, but with 45 years experience; and you know what they say, experience counts! Lol ☘️👍😊
@@Rogar0 yes still think I am 21😂 enjoy your walk
go lad go!
@@johnmudd6453 never!
Nice to see the cigar cutter there. I used to do night shifts as a hospital porter and after a a lengthy week / ten day shift, I'd have a decent Cuban (Romeo Y Julieta, usually). There's something about having a cigar after a lot of walking that makes sense. Good call.
Look forward to the trek updates
Hi Nick.
Nice looking pack.
You probably want to shy away from the MTP design,but I’ve just got hold of a new virtus G10 mkIII.
Great pack to carry,with a lot of weight in it.
Got a pair of rocket pouches for it too,to add a bit more room for cook sets,etc.
Pretty comfy,and carries well with the new padded waist belt.
Good luck with your trip.
Regards.
First thing to say is good luck Nick. I am sure you will enjoy it. I’m also sure you will finish the hike and learn a lot from the experience. There are tips and tricks and strategies that will become routine, like heat regulation using hat/gloves and loosing a layer before you start up a gradient. It’s also a fact that you will never carry this much weight again on a multi-day hike. Once you have finished the hike, be sure to pay attention to what you do not use and to what you could have improvised using something else. To give you a head-start down this iterative process, I make some suggestions below; take them or leave them. For perspective, the most similar trek I’ve done to your plan is a 4.5 day 160km through-hike in late February in Sweden. I carried just over 4kg base weight (so not counting food or drink or the clothes you are hiking in). If I were doing proper “shake-down” of your kit spread across the floor, I would loose you several kilograms very easily without you having to spend any money. So, feedback on what I can see in the video without unpacking and feeling everything myself:
The pile-and-pertext softshell top will be awesome. As will your headtorch. You can get much lighter rear cycle lights or just use a strip of reflective tape (e.g. cut off a high-viz vest) if there could be road sections you end up having to do in the dark.
Double-bagging clothes and sleep system is a good idea. However, the rucksack cover is not necessary and may blow around in a strong breeze. It's a sail - loose it.
Excellent you have a down bag. Also camp clothes (spare thermals) to sleep in to extend its range if you need it.
Obviously, put up the tent several times in the back garden before you go. Is it even all there? Put a garden hose over it to check the seams for leaks you might need to seal. Can you put it up in the dark? A strong wind? Do the pegs bend too easily and need to be swapped out? But wait, you are carrying a tent AND a bivvy bag? One or the other mate. If the tent has too much airflow (i.e. is a meshy summer tent), take the bivvy. If you do decide on the tent, forget the bivvy, and you don’t need all of that cordage - check how much you need when you set the tent up and pre-attach it before you go. Drop the rest. Next time you should replace it with much lighter line than paracord.
Those strip maps are the business. Good call. Treking poles are helpful for big loads, especially in slippery mud in the winter. If you have not used them before it may take a few hours to develop a rhythm of using them. Extend for downhill.
Dehydrated food is good. Dried meat for protein is great. 3L camelback? It’s good to have the capacity once you have set up camp and need to cook, but I hope you don’t plan to carry all that during the day (3kg!). When using the drinking hose, be sure to blow back the water up into the reservoir (and have that next to your back) so the water cannot freeze in the hose or reservoir. Even if the hose is insulated, it can still freeze, especially near the bite valve.
Don’t use the anti-inflammatories or pain killers as you walk - pain is your body’s way of telling you it is being damaged by what you are doing. You need to be able to hear what your body is telling you so you can adjust. Much better to use the medication at the end of the day to get a good night’s sleep if you have to. Do yourself a favour and go to any chemists or high street pharmacist and add some Compeed to treat developing hot spots on your feet as soon as you feel them. You don't need to have your first aid kit in a metal tin. Change underwear every day and socks every 2 days. In general, you are carry more wet wipes, toilet roll, detergent, fat wood, fuel plugs, etc than you will use in 4 days. Take smaller amounts and decant into smaller packages. Do you have a tiny aluminium/plastic trowel for a cat hole and hand sanitiser? Things can become unexpectedly urgent after pushing your body for a few days.
Why are you carrying material for wood fires AND carrying a gas stove AND carrying a heavy thermos flask? Just the stove should do it. Take a full gas canister and it should last 4 days. Remember you will be passing cafes, petrol stations and shops on the way on that lowland route - and the owners are well aware of the passing trade. This is also important to remember when carrying food and water - only carry enough to get you to your next resupply plus a little insurance to account for half a day delay, such as chocolate and a packet of dried noodles.
The rucksack you just bought will do fine for several years as you go through the trim down process. If you can already loose some weight from your load this trip, remove that extra 10L pouch on the back of the sack. Not only should you not need the extra capacity (it’s a massive sack already), but adding weight further away from your center of mass is a really really bad idea - the physics of “moments” means the same weight at a greater distance requires more force to counteract. Not good for your back mate. It looks like a nice pod that I am certain you could put to good use in your other activities. Likewise, don’t ever leave stuff loosely swinging on the outside of your pack. Waste of energy.
All the kit you show is single person. Are you sharing any load at all with your hiking mate? Communal kit could be: stove and fuel, cooking pots and their cleaning kit, 2 person tent, navigation, food, water sterilisation/filtration, photography equipment, first aid kit, toilet kit. Get your heads together to see what the overlap is and where weight can be shared.
I hope all that did not sound negative. The last thing I want to do is kill your enthusiasm for a new sport that has given me so much joy and fulfillment over the year, so I hope you read all this in the spirit it was offered. Again, best of luck!!!
Gt. video Nick, hope all is going well. My only observation is simple this….. you can take the man out of the Corps, but you can’t take the Corps out of the man😂 Think lighter, Think multi-use. Will look forward to your debrief after the event. Regards from deepest Dorset 👍
I can't remember where I've seen it but those splash maps are a throwback to a type of map that was used in world war ii.
Excellent video as usual Nick. Still makes me chuckle having come from Somerset and now in British Columbia the difference in kit for out here. No need for bear bangers or bear spray in Somerset! ;-)
I have the same TT pack and they are bullet proof, you will not be disappointed.
Splash Maps - where have you been all my life!!! Just ordered one for the place I keep going back to - the Anglesey bit of the Wales Coastal Path. Great videos!!
Hope you get on OK with the surplus micro fleece wind shirt thing. I think they are good if your mobile but not as warm as a buffalo.
Great video mate, you're an inspiration!
Those maps are cool, kind of like special forces maps printed on silk. The only problem is I have a habit of hiking inland for a night or two when I am hiking the coastal path, especially when you are near Exmoor you have to just too many awesome pubs that need a visiting ha.
The pee bottle thing is a good idea, I actually like getting up in the night for a pee, I like to stand up have a stretch, stomp about a little then get back into my sack.
Good kit & lots of it.
I love that map I'll look into getting something similar for Austria
Thanks for sharing informative as always👍
Great break down - lots of kit there! Looking forward to seeing the trip and it will be good to see which items got the most use and which you’d maybe leave behind next time.
Great video Nick! Looking forward to the video series on the trip.
Lots of kit but I'm sure you can carry it looking forward to seeing your video's atvb jimmy 😎😎👍👍
Hey Nick, I didn't realise you were doing the SDW! You're going to chuckle when i tell you that me and a mate attempted to do it in 2 days a few years back (having got far too over confident doing something similar the year before). We carried everything we'd need to camp out on the trail but based on our previous experiences, went as light as we possibly could. We were prepared physically and had the kit nailed down but we both had a few other things going on which meant we weren't prepared mentally. We started at Eastbourne and got to Steyning bowl by last light, knackered! The following morning we got as far as Chanctonbury ring and decided to bin it. I've been meaning to go back and finish what we started for years now. After watching your prep vid, perhaps this could be the year... BTW I was carrying 4 maps :-)
Always interesting and informative. Thanks Nick. Regards Russ
Great video, im heading into the Scottish Hills for 3 nights in a few weeks, some good tips in your video, enjoy your journey !
Can you please put a link for your jacket, I can’t for the life of me pick up what you called it in the video (ear problems). It does sort of look like the goochi stuff I saw getting issued to the British army (snugpak?), After I got out lol 😂. I actually have been using a parachute jacket since around 1998 when I bought two from BATUS Tailor shop lady (English) who made them up and sold them. I was for sure sceptical first time wearing it in the field in Canadian winter, but was very surprised at how warm it kept me. When I travel overseas I always use a rucksack, went through a few brand names over the years but about 5-6 years ago I came across TT in a store in Calgary Alberta. The store also carried M249 magazine pouches which gave me the ad on factor on the flat front. Couple of things in your video I’m going to use (kindle plastic egg, and Blue micro light), I had seen the blue light years ago and bought some for that purpose. But then put them somewhere and forgot lol. (Old timers syndrome), but otherwise my ruck is pretty similar to your load out. Love your show, I pass your name around my ex-military buddies and civvie outdoorsy folks here locally and around Alberta. Trying to find your new book but might be too new to be getting listed/available here in canada 🇨🇦
Your bottle reminds me of our old PB's, we added a sponge or 2 in it so that it didnt slosh around too much. Great channel, quite enjoy it and look forward to the next posts on your trip!
ps.
Something you might like regarding a light source. check out the MPOWERD Luci Inflatable Solar Light Outdoor Solar Powered LED Lantern. I've had mine for a few years and still going strong. I think they've got a newer version but if its as rugged and reliable as the first gen. You might see some good use out of it.
Hi. Thank you once again for a really great and informative video. Lots of ideas for me to process. stay safe and good luck on the expedition. ATB. Nigel.
Berghaus and Biltong….good to go !
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Saffer mate once told me it was Biltong that wonthe boer war….brits had to stop for food and rest whilst the boers had a bunch of biltong stapped to their sides and could move about freely picking the brits off….without stopping…the perfect guerilla warfare grub back then…
Another great vid Nick, looking forward to seeing more of the journey, splash maps 😀💦👍, what a brilliant idea.
One question I have is, how go about camping in such a popular place considering UK access/camping laws?
Cheers Nick, take care,
Nige.
Nice one with the splash-maps.. 👍
Right idea - ta fella.
all set for chompin' and yompin' ! ✊😁
The rucksack looks like a good bit of kit. Can't wait to see all the footage from the endeavour. If it doesnt challenge you it won't change you 👍
What's the Jacket you showed tried to find it couldn't, have you link for it, great video
I love a good challenge myself...i often set goals for the coming months...crossing mountain ranges and bagging peaks is my thing....at my age i try and keep my base weight under 15 pounds, never carrying more than i think i'll need for a four to six day trek...in winter i use a 10f down sleeping bag and light weight bivy..extra clothing consists of extra socks and a pair of briefs a puffy and wind/rain jacket.
My pack i is either a HMG Dyneema Southwest 4400ci or an external frame Seek Outside 4800 ci Unaweep made from Xpac material...both seam sealed and waterproof and very tough materials...the HMG weight empty is 2.5 lbs...the Seek Outside comes in at 3.25 lbs.
While i love my Military packs for overniters and such...when pounding out more than twenty miles a day, day after day i need to be as light as possible.
I think you have covered all your bases my friend...i wish you fair weather and good health on your adventure!...atvb...David
Harvey Maps are great they have a whole series of them of trails in the UK. I use the Harvry Map for the West Highland Way.However, the Splash Map version are quiet expernsive to the normal Harvey Maps.
Hello from British Columbia Canada 🇨🇦👋👍❤️🌲🐕
After you video about sleeping bags, I went to an army surplus store and got me a British army medium sleeping bag. And it’s bloody magic. That along with a NATO patrol bag, £ 65 all in. Great stuff
Looking forward to seeing you walk!👍
That is a thorough kit review. I am looking forward to the video or videos of your your ruck march. And how that Catoma Burrow holds up. Looks good for a summer season shelter but in cold? Not sure.
Fascinating stuff Nick… it’ll be interesting to see how it all worked out for you on the walk 👍
A really interesting video, thank you. I guess the trek is done now, so how did it go? I always like seeing other peoples kit for treks and camping, I personally try to carry less water these days as its so heavy and your three litres is a lot of weight to be lugging around. I've used a Sawyer mini but i've just bought a Grayl Geopress and will aim to replenish frequently as the Grayl takes out the pesticides and fertiliser residues which normally make lowland water unusable. Good luck with all your ventures I really enjoy your videos. I live in North Somerset and would like to come and do a course with you sometime soon to develop my growing interest in bushcraft. All the best.
I'm currently creating a bug-out bag and this video was very useful. For food, I dehydrated plenty of meat and veg, then blitzed each item into powder and put them into vacuum bags, to reduce space and weight. I'll be living off nourishing soups and dehydrated mashed potato. Now I'm off to watch your "map and compass" video. Many thanks for your videos. All the best.
Great video! I've only just started out on my outdoor adventures at the ripe old age of 50, but rest assured, I'll be coming back to this vid when I get to the point of longer walks and overnighters. Best of luck, dude........btw, loved the BBC feature 👍
Nick, I couldn't catch what that waterproof top was with the fleece lining
Nick, good luck to you and your pal on this adventure. I am sure that you will do fine. I really like the pack. Which version is it? Maybe I missed that in your narrative? :)
Best of luck, no plan survives contact with the enemy
Thanks Nick. You mentioned a few times in the short videos that your pack weight was heavy. What would you have changed knowing what you know now? Keep up the great work. Outdoor activity is one of the best mental health therapies in my humble opinion.
Great kit breakdown. Looking forward to seeing it all in action.
Nate
Cool 😎 be interested in your views on the tent mate
So timely! I'm setting off to do Braunton to Newquay - just under 130 miles - next week. I'll be going solo and I'm a 58 year old spring chicken, so, I know how you feel. I've decided to take my Nordisk Telemark tent rather than the Rab Ridgeraider. We will see. With a bivvy you can dive over a fence and be sorted in a few minutes. My biggest concern? Getting the miles in versus short days. I don't like trying to find a pitch in the dark but I don't want to sit in my tent for 14 hours! Can't decide. We will see.
Great kit nick in the process of mking a few changes to mine do you stick with slightly heavier bomb proof gear or go lightweight m8 gonna give this a lot of thought and study .love the tasmanian tiger pack a lot of guys in new Zealand use those very popular over there can understand why great bit of kit .good luck on the trail hope things go well 👍
Just bought one of these maps on your recommendation Nick, got one for the Hadrians Wall route im planning on doing in a couple of weeks.This video has given me lots of ideas, thank you
Thanks for this and good luck, I’m starting my own challenge in March, walking the south west coast path doing it in weekly sections. My kit is a bit similar though not quite so Gucci all carried in a pussers bergan
I heard you say you cleaned and prepped your boots. You might tell the nubes out there I'd make sure they were broken in but not worn out. I wish I could still go 100 miles. But I'm almost double your age and everything is worn out. I also don't drink hot liquid in cold weather as it's like having a wood stove near the thermostat in your house the rest of the rooms don't get any heat because the central heat shuts off, when your core senses the heat in the coffee, tea ,etc you provide less heat to your extremities which where I am can cause frostbite 🥶
THANKS NICK for showing the thought behind your kit and what you have think about when going on a long expedition what you need is essential. Have a Blessed day..🙏👍😁
I wouldn't worry too much about getting your bag out early to loft. They only get compressed in they are stored for a fair while. A day in your pack won't do anything. Just don't pack 'em away wet (don't get 'em wet full stop tbh :-) )
Your bag look heavy.
Have a smooth journey and take care 👍 😊
Stay blessings and safe.
Have a great time 😀
My favourite place in the South East of England. I tend to use it for mountain biking rather than walking, and must have covered in excess of 6,000 miles to date. Even in the worst of winter weather, with cold horizontal rain, nothing beats the feeling of well being that the Downs give. The prevailing winds make West to East the best option. There is also many well placed water refill points should you need them. The water points are generally detailed on maps.
Beware though the taps don’t always work and can be a 10km gap.
Great kit and info. Keep it up! Thanks!
Nick you are a legend!
Liked the intro. I think you were carrying too much kit but you have to learn by experience. Never forgetting that what works for your audience may not work for you!
Yomping along a long distance trail and being self sufficient is different from being in that military mindset where you are a "Donkey Soldier! " Some of the previous comments reflect this aspect. However the principles are the same (wet and dry routine etc.) civvy kit is different as you are well aware. Weight is the major impact factor. It is a very fine balance between the cost of the kit you choose and can afford, against its weight.
Like the Splash Maps. I have used the Collins A to Z National Trails (1:25,000) but they are in a small book form so they have to be weather proofed.
The journey continues!
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Now that you have finished the walk, now is the time to reflect on what went well, what did not go work out and coming back to the subject of kit, what did you take that you did not use? Was that unused kit necessary (spare minimal clothing - yes - shower in can, fat wood stick with ferrol rod, three litres of water to carry - perhaps no). To keep your basic weight down one has to be ruthless with your "after Ops debrief!"
good luck - that's alot kit How much did it weigh?
Very good kit cheers for sharing nick great work
Good stuff Nick. Good luck to you. Can't ever go wrong with some Skittles while hiking. I like Jolly Ranchers too. Instant morale boost. Look forward to seeing video of the trail. Take care
Great video as always Nick, can you please post a link so people can sponsor you for this walk for your chosen charity.
Thank you for the breakdown. Do you have the list somewhere?
Where do you stand legally when it comes to camping in the south downs. As I understand it you are only allowed to camp overnight in Scotland and on Dartmoor. Thanks for the video and all the great tips.
Nice kit!
Thanks Nick. Lovely to watch all your kit ideas. Looks pretty heavy bro (and probably you'll need it all). The walk is awesome and hopefully you won't wake up with too much ice on the tent (or in). I just swapped over to Huel for my rations and snacks. And if it gets too cold at night, just jump up and walk a bit, it's an awesome experience walking at night, but I'm sure you know. I'd highly recommend paramo gear too, you can really live in it. And if your ever in London and want to check out some yoga for your back, look me up Hamish
Hi ya mate I walked it last September from Winchester to eastbourne.its a great walk ,the only thing I found was woods become thin on the ground the closer to Eastbourne you get so I had to book a couple of campsite on route so not to stay in an angry famer field.ps trueleigh hill YMCA does pizza and beer and it's bang on route at about 5pm,good luck
Good demonstration of kit breakdown but I used to find on long treks I found some kit wasn't much good but mistakes were rectified on the next trip the main thing always got right was my clothing and sleep system thank you for a excellent video ♠️
Nice kit. How much does all of that weigh?
Splash maps looks cool. I was going to buy one off the back of your review, as South Downs way is on my 'to do' list. but the cost of them seems a bit daft.
I'm not being a troll. I think they look great, but I already bought the Way Adventure Atlas book (1:25000 os map of the route) for £7.. and would probably use my phone with viewranger (free) for my primary navigation.
Great video by the way. I love your content!
Splash Maps seem super cool, seen them a couple times before but never looked into the pricing. 30 pounds seems a bit steep, however, it's important to remember that sometimes you really do get what you pay for.
G,day Nick
Have you thought about adding a small tube of Paw Paw ointment. Good for scratches and grazes.
Seriously good stuff. Thought the house, the car and my other gear I've got about 5 tubes of it.
All the best. Bluey
Fantastic overview Nick. i didn't catch the complete weight. i am interested because i tackle the two moors way in April, having been of poor health for 10 years, plus, its important to challenge ourselves as you say. i am hoping to kick start the Spring and my future. Keep up the superb work with Warrior and the channel. ATVB2U and yours Scott, Somerset
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Thanks, Nick, i am trying to reduce , It is such a fine balance..
Love ur content, 💗
Thank u
Luxury soft tissues???? Surely napalm and broken glass for a Bootneck 😉
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 🤣🔥 🇯🇵
Now, bring on the trip uploads!
Great to see your kit set up. I've recently been swapping my pack and kit about, for best access and weight distribution.
Always customizing..
Keep up the good work. 👍
Great Vid Nick, I hope your trip was a massive brilliant adventure. I'm 50 and have had Kidney cancer, Aortic heart valve replacement, and suffered from siezures as a child. I enlisted in the Army but the next month my dad past due to a ten yr. Sickness. The stress and loss led to me not being able to go, I tried many times after to enlist but was rejected by every branch. I understand about physical limitations due to health and now age. But, you have to have a Never give up, Keep on keepin on, Obtain the objective, Complete the mission mindset. Otherwise, life will break you. All the best. Keep on truckin. Makes me want to go on a long ruck, just for shits and giggles 😁👍🌟🍺 Cheers mate. Ps. Could you send a link for the pack and add on, I love that.
sudocrem is ace for nut rash, i have mixed it with germolene before to make it less like crotch concrete on the go. pretty well thought out kit muster there though Nick, looking forward to the (virtual) trek.
And vaseline to prevent it. ‘Prevention is Better than a cure’ they say 👍
Allow the sweat to happen and keep personal admin in check. The chaffing will happen anyway on a long tab, its keeping it low level and controlled makes tabber a happy lad.
@@roosterneck2158 Disagree mate, I will stick to my British Army Infantry training incl Junior Brecon ,that I myself used and taught for 15 years . Skin rubbing leads to blisters,and soreness fact. ‘ prevention always better than a cure’.. fact.. 👍
Do you have a litefighter tent…..give them a go
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Very versatile 3 season and can be pitched in several ways and made into a 4 season tent. Can also be used as a cot tent. Worth a squizz perhaps if you have time on a future adventure. Good luck with your current planned adventure.
Hi Nick. Couldn't quite catch what the mid layer/ windproof micro fleece top was that you are taking. Can you please advise . Thanks.
Many thanks
We’re did you get your iodine from I’ve been trying to find a retailer again for my first aid kit boots stopped selling it
Sorry i May have missed it but what was your Pack weight?
What's the weight of your bag loaded.
Was the bergan a sponsored item or did you choose it out of the many out there? Just asking as not heard of them before! 🤔😁
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 cool 😎! Are they available in this country?
Hi, nice video. Thank you for that. what type of TT rucksack is that. is it the new OPS 80/24 or which one? I’m thinking about getting annew one from TT.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Thanks for you fast response. I’m thinking about that pack too. But after the release of the new ops 80/24 which is also used by the german special forces I wasn’t sure which one would be better. But now your video has showed me, that the raid pack is big enough for all the stuff I would carry for a longer trip.
Thanks for that. I’m looking forward for the videos about your trip. Regards
Quick question. Do you think trekking poles are actually helpful for walking with a big pack?
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Thanks. I've heard that too. We will see. Hope the South Downs Way is proving fun. I used to walk it when I was a lad. Ditchling Beacon comes easily to mind. Also, some school boy fun and later, army fun around Amberley.
What do you think of Iodine as a water cleaning solution? I've got a few chlorine tabs I keep in my pack in case of proper emergencies but I hear most lads use iodine in their camelpaks on long outings? Any thoughts or you just use it for the first aid? Cheers man, always appreciate the tips.
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 As far as I can tell they're about the same in terms of steralising, of course you wouldn't want to rub chlorine in a wound so perhaps the iodine is a more all round solution haha. Cheers again!
what weight did you bag come out too?
@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 lol jesus your knees are gonna be dust by the end of this trip!
Sorry, but this is the problem I have. I "cycle" and have just come back from a 2000 km Japan trip. I "planned" and having done long distance before "thought " I knew what to take. on the return leg, I sent back 5 kg. With no problem. In other words, I took too much stuff. You are walking ( I was cycling ) ... it will be wake up, start a fire, coffee, pack away, start walking. Lunch will be as easy as can be (homemade energy bars for me) . walk. find a place to sleep. Cook, drink ( cocoa or a small whiskey ) sleep ( here in Japan a bivi and a hammock as sometimes you cant find a bivi "site" ) Sleep is important so I go sleep heavy I use a plash planka ( Russian tarp poncho made from canvas ) a Swagman poncho liner ( doubles as a sleeping bag ) and an under hammock down blanket. and an outdoors research bivi.....With a german foldable groundsheet. The plash planka folds over the under hammock down blanket and inside that is the swagman. "if" I have a drink before bed, I get up and curse, Usually I'm tired and sleep through, I have two cook systems one dual fuel and one titanium foldable "firebox" ..... For "food " I found flour and "johnnycakes" to be the easiest just a dough ( which lasts for days and seems to get better the longer you leave it !!!! and a lump of meat and some form of vege .... As for hygiene wet wipes and essential oils ( peppermint and lemon ) " be careful where you use the lemon ....trust me " That map you have loos "great" lots of info for the surrounding area BUT England being similar to Japan ... I use the sun because you are never going to get lost .... America Nevada desert is another story but England and japan,, there is a 7/11 within reach ( I started using the sun after I got caught in a typhoon, the tablet was in 2 plastic bags AND STILL got wet and stopped working, I don't now how but when I went to use it .... full of water Useless!!!) Now I just use the sun and talk to locals ! lease when you get back from your tri could you do an "honest " review of what you "actually " used . than you for your channel ,especially when you tal about your "feelings" thank you ! from Japan !
👍
Might have been better to lay the kit out so we could see everything, go through it and then pack it to show the method. Also the lighting in that room wasn't good. But thanks anyway.
I don't understand why you still carry a pack that weighs a ton empty. I get the fact it might be bomb proof but you're not throwing it in the back of a bedford or kicking it in a shell scrape any longer. Get yourself an Osprey at half the weight. I'm ex Guards and wouldn't be seen dead in military kit any more. Go full civvy but keep the skills. Look forward, not back. It helps the healing process