Backpacking Questions You Might Be Too Embarrassed To Ask #5

[@theonlynikki27]

Every time I see a comment or question anywhere about anyone being afraid of being alone because of whatever reason (like weight/ physical ability, HOH mentioned here) my immediate reaction is "I'LL GO WITH YOU!!" I mean....I don't know what kind of safety all 5'1" 120# of me would provide but I'm happy to hike slower or faster or be your ears/eyes whatever! I want everyone to enjoy hiking as much as I do without fear. I wish I could just be with everyone.

[@autumnwishes8364]

What a sweet comment! ☺️

[@tamie341]

Thats nice to give the bears an appetizer with their main course 😉

[@nicoleotte2433]

@@tamie341 😂

[@kmannewyork]

Thank You are so kind.

[@dannycurtis2591]

Theonlynikki- I'm 6'4, 270, and extremely hard of hearing. I don't need a LOT of protection, but I'd greatfully trade protection with someone for heightened situational awareness!!!

[@sabrinahaake8195]

A couple of weeks ago I did my first over night backpacking trip with a friend :) We both have celiac disease and other food allergies. She is slightly underweight because she is recovering from some health issues and I have a couple of chronic illnesses. We just went for it at gave it a try because the trail we did was only an hour by car from home. We started planning only a couple of days before and did it with average gear. We both loved it and learned a lot for the next trip. I would absolutely recommend to just do a practice hike. Don't wait until everything is perfect.

[@zac_888]

so inspiring for me!

[@kenwelch198]

My 82 y/o Mom has been hiking the Appalachian trail in pieces for the last 27 years. She's done all of Georgia and about 1/3 of the rest of the trail. I became disabled a few years ago and can't walk with her now but she's still going strong! P.S. I love your accent!

[@Zapruderfilm1963]

Concerning not getting lost while using the restroom on the trail ; I carry my trekking poles with me and lay the point end of the pole pointing in the direction of the trail when I’ve gone a sufficient distance. It’s worked for me many times.

[@user-tn7xo7ky9o]

I've heard of people doing this. I've always questioned should someone be alone on a hike that gets lost leaving trail to go to bathroom. We can all home & laugh about it once a person gets reorientated but I'm sure it b quite scary

[@308dad8]

@@user-tn7xo7ky9o I’ve been turned around in woods I grew up in, just didn’t take a bearing on which way I left the road to know which way takes me back to it. Flagging tape works well and so does a compass.

[@user-tn7xo7ky9o]

@@308dad8 Yes, compasses r ur friend! I understand getting turned around. My parents moved to the Ozark Mountains 25 yrs ago. They had several winding hollers upto 700' lower than house ground level. Woods were so thick I couldn't c the sky to get my direction. I had a bad habit, according to my mother, of picking blue, black, & raspberries at night, having my eyesight on the ground I got turned around twice. After that I trained my Rottie "go home". I have the orange tape in my pack that we use when we can't find the trail, making where we've gone. As well as using it when ur in a group & get split up. Then just encase u get lost rescue can easily follow ur tail. But I don't c how one would get lost going the bathroom- perhaps I'm just not that modest starting close to trail. If u did get turned around & the trees, shrubs were so thick could u even c ur poles? W my luck is lose very expensive gear. (The best thing about GoGirl is a can pee like a boy without exposure ;} )

[@cailin5309]

@@user-tn7xo7ky9o out of curiousity has the go girl ever given you problems? Like I fear if I get one my hand would slip or something & it would leak 🤭🤦‍♀️ I can’t believe I’m asking this lol

[@user-tn7xo7ky9o]

@@cailin5309 I wear boy thermals in winter which helps. My biggest issues is after u go u r all wet. What I do is use my washcloth made to replace toilet paper that is silver lined & I fold it & place it in the crouch of my pants. Then after removing GoGirl it drops on the cloth then u can wipe urself. I rinse the GoGirl & the cloth. What happens is the cup u hold against u fills up.. Am I making sense? I could b more detailed & graphic but don't want to upset & get blasted. Mine happened to arrive when.my dad was over, he suggest I practiced at home standing peeing in tub. It was awesome suggestion, I would of never thought of that. That helped me figure it out at home. I think it only took 3 times. I really like when I'm out in the winter, morning worse than hanging out ass out in freezing or 3' of snow! It's also nice if u end up in a crowded trail. I keep mine folded up in my waist pocket so I don't have to take pack off. I have been thinking of getting woman's thermals & underwater designed like men's that way we won't have an the extra bulky material up front having to buy men's. I'm sure the price would b double. Hope that helps u, for the price, off brands

[@pokinalong4590]

Dixie's advice for diabetes was spot on. One thing I can add is that insulin isn't nearly as temperature sensitive as most people fear. When I was hiking through the desert on the PCT, I kept most of my insulin cool in a Frio wallet, but my partner had an emergency backpack vial that went unrefridgerated for more than a month in 100+ degree weather. When I eventually tried out the backup it still worked at something like 80% of its original effectiveness. So while I still wouldn't recommend not keeping your insulin cool, it is far from the end of the world if something happens and you can't manage it for a few days.

[@harryharpoon5257]

I don't even use a Frio wallet, I have found that as long as I keep it out of the direct sunlight it works fine. However, if I'm hiking thru a 100 degree desert then I would most likely use a Frio. Question: what do you carry for when you have low BS? I usually carry peach rings or some other high sugar gummies but they can be heavy depending on how many you bring. I always like to bring more than what I think I'll need of course.

[@308dad8]

That’s interesting so diabetics aren’t chained to refrigerators anymore?

[@angelicajacobs584]

@@harryharpoon5257 skittles for me! And other gummies. I prefer juice boxes but on a hike they weight you down :(

[@maddymac1960]

@@harryharpoon5257 I bring packets of white sugar & also hardy candies that won’t melt in the heat like a gummy will :)) the sugar packets are a must for me, a few years ago I had a pretty severe low where my hands became absolutely useless. Couldn’t open any packaging, but was able to chew up a sugar packet as it’s just thin paper x

[@pokinalong4590]

​@@harryharpoon5257 On shorter trips, I'll often just take a big container of sugar tablets with me. My other go-to is starbursts, cause they come in nice discrete units like sugar tabs, but they are yummier, and if you're in the middle of nowhere trying to resupply, you're much more likely to find candy than a pharmacy with actual sugar tabs. If I'm not too low and/or I'm not dropping quickly, I'll often also just eat some of my regular carbful backpacking snacks like a some sort of bar. It doesn't act as quick, but you don't always need it to, and you can save the fast glucose for when you really want/need it.

[@justjonoutdoors]

For the non-hiking spouse - 1st - get an inReach and set up MapShare - my wife enjoys watching our (mine and our daughter’s) progress, as well as giving her much peace of mind knowing that she can always reach out and contact us if needed.

[@ewik939]

I’m not HOH myself, but I’m a sheltie owner and I can definitely recommend Shetland sheepdogs for HOH hikers that need a four legged hiker friend and night guard. Small enough to fit conveniently in your tent or carry over intense stream crossings, yet very active and hard working dogs that can bag many miles. They’re very alert on sounds and surroundings (to the point where I try to camp away from others to give her peace at night). She doesn’t only bark if she’s guarding, she’ll back into me or step on top of me to wake me the f*** up haha, so I’d have a hard time imagining someone sleeping through that. Also they’re super cuddly, playful and charming lil buddies. Just a tip!

[@curious1366]

Awww!

[@MultiZoobie]

I have two rough collies (Lassie for the uninitiated) and one of them will do the back up into me and sit on me thing lol.

[@joycemansfield1108]

I am in the middle of knee replacement but I've had 3 shelties and the first 2 hiked everyday .Seamus is a beautiful boy still but he's 13 so I understand and they are great companions and friends .

[@jenniferandrew3373]

Part of hiking etiquette is just looking the other way when you come up on somebody doing their business in an exposed area. Nature's call cannot always be put off until a better time. So you just avert your eyes and keep on walking.

[@arthurrsaker8893]

I must admit to never having met such an unfortunate hazard Jen, but since I do not entertain any hope of a sighting of the common cammo backpacker evacuating its bowels, or regard it as one of the not to be missed attractions along the way, I shall have no difficulty in politely averting my gaze and proceeding as tho' I had not noticed anything so unusual so close to the trail. Is this a common occurrenc in your trekking locations?

[@airic499]

Modesty while backpacking is a combo of the golden rule and honor system. Give what you'd expect. You see a pack on the tail and no person, keep your eyes on the trail.

[@trailsandsmores]

Yup! I once came up to someone peeing and I took the other fork in the road then turned back around after I figured was enough time and kept going.

[@Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

_"The art of finding buried treasure."_ -- Dixie [March, 2022] 😄😄😄😄😄

[@bernielamont825]

Hey y'all, Bernie here! Sorry Dixie, couldn't resist. In regards to being HOH, i take my ears out after about an hour or so. I would love to hear everything all night, but i've gotten used to the peace and quiet. Plus it tunes out noisy nieghbors who want to party all night.

[@diamondeyethunderbow5678]

A technique my wife and I adopted with 3 kids, but which could work even with solo hiking is that when the kids leave trail to go to the bathroom we have a long length of 550# cord (yes, 550# cord is a bit much for this, but I've been in the military 24 years between active and reserves so it's paracord because that's how we roll!) and each kid has a light carabiner on their pack. Whichever person is going just clips a loop on one end of the paracord to their pack, sets it down on the trail, and goes off in the woods. It's bright yellow so if you drop it you can find it. Where this is even better is overnight. At night we put the loop around one pole of the adult tent, and whoever needs to go just picks up one end to go away from the camp site and take care of business. This way we don't need to worry about everyone having phones (only our 16 year old has a phone; we don't allow them to have phones before high school) and it works just as well for the adults too! Just make sure if you're going to do it at night that you have a 2nd line for a bear bag - we narrowly avoided this problem our first time when my wife remembered she had a second coil in her pack.

[@elioraimmanuel]

Excellent advice!

[@cailin5309]

Love this idea!

[@dannycurtis2591]

Paracord(550)can bear the strain of a person a little over 500 lbs. I wouldn't say comfortably, but good enough to recover a person who by happenstance, in the dark, stepped over a ledge. Where this is a possibility, I might secure the bitter end of the line around a strong tree ,wrapping it 2-3 times and secure it with the knot de jeur(my choice would be a Bowline with a hitch or two). Then, snap into a binder with a whistle attached, in case of an emergency, like forgetting the TP, for instance!!!🧻

[@elioraimmanuel]

For those asking about a CPAP. Dixie’s original video mentioned a mini CPAP that is no longer available. That CPAP was approx $300-400. The available options now are far more expensive. With a battery they are $900-$1,300.

[@Pete7330]

One option for HOH is wear one in daytime and the other at night. Each ear gets a rest that way.

[@KimberlyGreen]

A reason to love Dixie & Aaron even more: This video, which touches on hard-of-hearing concerns, has closed captions! That is _SUPER_ - thoughtful!

[@dannycurtis2591]

I love the closed captions!! I have to charge my hearing aids overnight, and I turn my audio way down so as not to disturb my lovely bride while I watch crime & mystery stories by Mr. Ballen on his you tube channel!!! Some of his stories are a little scary, but not NEAR as scary as waking the Missus in the middle of the night, heh heh!!! 😉

[@danielleholmberg270]

@@dannycurtis2591 Mr Ballen is the best!!!!!

[@fredh54]

As a person who is new to hearing aids, let me give you my perspective. A person who has difficulty hearing most noises is the person who might be wearing hearing aids on a thru hike. My hearing loss is age related and my problem is not hearing higher frequencies. I hear that someone is talking because I hear bass fairly well, but I can't always understand what someone is saying because I am not hearing the higher frequencies. With my hearing loss, I wouldn't wear hearing aids on a long hike because the aids are small, delicate and expensive and I don't want to risk losing them. I can function somewhat without them. On a day hike, I wear them. The other reason that I would not wear them is that my aids are rechargeable, and you don't get more than 18 hours of use without recharging (some aids have replaceable batteries that last about a week). For me there are real advantages to wearing them. My phone is connected to the aids via Bluetooth just like your earbuds. The downside to not wearing them is without them, I probably wouldn't hear a snake.

[@justjonoutdoors]

As far as leaving the trail - I always carry a roll of surveyors tape - tied off to a tree at eye level, you can see it from 50+ feet away. As I’m leaving the trail, I always tie off, and leave another every 20 to 30 feet. Tied with a bow not, they come right off the branches and go back in a pack/pocket in a quick instant.

[@elliemay3147]

I tied reflective surveyors tape to mini claw clips(hair clips). They're quick and easy to clip to branches walking away from trail and unclip on the way back. I use reflective because I pre-dig my cat hole for the next day when setting up camp. If I'm using my bear can, I put it over the pre-dug hole so if I need to go or start hiking while it's still dark, I'm all set up and can find my way.

[@tamie341]

Just drop cookie crumbs like da OGs hansel n gretal, timeless advice

[@johncoulter8023]

For most of my life I've had normal hearing. Now that I'm 70+ I wear hearing aids (the kind they give to military vets). IT IS SO GREAT! I hear things that others don't hear. They dramatically amplify specific frequencies - one of which are bird songs. I can hear birds from VERY far away answering the calls of birds near me. It opens a whole new world of nature that people with normal hearing are missing out on - it's a life-changer!

[@DarinMcGrew]

Your answer to the plus-size woman reminded me of a couple things I've done when introducing kids from church to backpacking/camping for the first time. These approaches can work for anyone who is new to backpacking. 1. Reserve a site a short hike from parking, carry personal gear in packs, and have one person bring group gear (food, cabin tents, etc.) on a boat or in a van earlier in the day. 2. Camp Friday night in a site next to parking, then hike to the trail site Saturday. (Return unnecessary stuff to vehicles Saturday morning.) Hike back Sunday, via a different trail if possible. (The park actually had a site next to parking that could be reserved only if you reserved a trail site the same weekend.)

[@Intentionally-wild8175]

The local group is a great suggestion I personally hike high miles, but I love just being outdoors I have overweight/obese friends I take day hiking and backpacking. They love getting out there and they know that I'll help them and do most of the planning. I find the hiking community to be extremely supportive.

[@lanes8237]

Remember that dogs are more suited to drinking water that isn't cleaned and disinfected than we are. There is a big difference between a running stream and a cow pond. The other thing to remember is that dogs have a rather simple digestive system and it's pretty easy to treat them if they do pick something up. I try and keep mine away from brackish water or stagnant cow ponds but other than that I let her go and she does pretty well. Remember, dogs regularly eat poop!

[@cailin5309]

I worked many years as a vet tech & Dogs DO get giardia & other internal parasites that humans don’t get. you can give your dog monthly dewormer it’ll cover common parasites. Giardia will cause them bad diarrhea & could dehydrate them quickly. So I’d be just as cautious with them

[@Threelittlebirdz-xk7xn]

All these "questions" videos are great for I am researching and brainstorming about anything I may face on my upcoming cross country adventure, I'm calling it "Walkin' and Talkin' Across America" and will be posting KZbin shorts, and the full videos will post exclusively on Rumble! Hope I see y'all out there! God Bless!

[@hilgi2003]

There is a good group in Utah called "Slow Hikers Unite Utah", they do lots of slower or shorter hikes as a group.

[@rumidude]

Just a couple suggestions: #1 Avoiding digging a cat hole where others have previously dug and used - The most common areas that people dig cat holes are around campsites. So the easiest way to lower the chances of digging up other's crap is to make it a practice to go before or after campsites, preferably a few hundred yards at the least. #2 Deaf or HOH - I am HOH and legally blind so I have a bit of experience. I always make camp in plenty of time before it gets dark. I generally am in the tent and ready to sleep before the sun sets. I have everything arranged the same way every night so I know exactly where everything is. I very rarely wear hearing aids while hiking because moisture is the enemy of them, sweat, humidity, and rain are the big issues. I may put them in on some occassions, but not often. I do carry them with me in case I need them to communicate. I don't like not having them in, but experience has not been good wearing them on the trail. YMMV

[@John-of5sh]

I have cochlear implants and when I take them off I am 100% deaf. I am also blind in my left eye. Good to know I am not alone out there. I have considered putting some kind of sign on my pack letting people know I am not ignoring them. Dumb idea?

[@cailin5309]

@@John-of5sh humor aside I think that’s actually a good idea, even for your own safety..

[@The_Channel_Of_Chad]

As a juvenile diabetic I can vouch for the effectiveness off the frío wallets. They work wonders. I also recommend caring the Clif bloks. A single pack contains 6 gels each one containing 8 carbohydrates. As I see my blood sugar dipping, I eat two and wait about 20 minutes to see how I react. Having a CGM (continuous glucose monitor) is almost a non-negotiable. CGM will work with your phone in airplane mode, however depending on your watch you may or may not get readings while in airplane mode. I know I don't get readings on my Fitbit watch in airplane mode, bit I do with my Apple watch.

[@ThisIsUnused]

About the getting lost while off trail and going to the bathroom. The watch I wear, the Garmin Instinct, has a function that will send you back exactly the way you came via the GPS in the watch. It's an awesome feature.

[@bartnickerson4467]

Interesting assortment of topics. For forested or rocky terrain bathroom breaks I would most recommend good uphill distance - you won't get lost, will have privacy, and should find unused land. I worry about going out sidehill for getting lost and being overused. As for cleanup - don't forget that truckstops frequently have shower facilities (if the town actually has truckstops). Those I have found with such facilities are clean and well run.

[@GSCHAN-rw9bu]

Not getting lost when looking for an outhouse: Speaking from experience and spending an hour and a half looking for the trail and my bicycle in Acadia NP, if I'd followed my inner voice and carried a compass with me, all I needed to do was walk back in the opposite direction from whence I came..... no battery, no dependence on cell towers or electronics. Luckily, they have horse-drawn carriage rides through the woods, and I heard the tack rattling on the horses on the road and that's how I found the trail. Even a little compass from the dollar store will get on out of a similar situation. I LOVE my compass!

[@peterrockwell5862]

Regarding cat holes, I always put a stone over mine as people are less likely to dig where there are stones. I mainly backpack in the Sierra, where stones are plentiful, so I realize that it might be more difficult in other environments, but putting something that makes it more difficult for someone to dig where you just dug is considerate.

[@pmnery]

When I leave the trail to use the bathroom I always lay my trekking poles or a stick facing in the direction that I will be going once I get back on the trail. That way I don't end up going the wrong way.

[@valerief1231]

Clever and easy tip, thanks for sharing!

[@nataliemiller6317]

I have never commented on any of these type of things before for any KZbinr but after watching this episode I just had to. I want to thank you so much for the response to being a diabetic. I have asked on several Facebook groups and watched so many KZbin channels about backpacking and have never gotten anywhere with it but you mentioning the frio cooler was just what I needed to know so THANK YOU😃

[@HostileTakeover2]

For finding your way back to the trail or camp after bathroom, you can also use an AirTag or Tile, or any of the myriad finding devices like that. You can get them to chirp so long as you don't go too far away.

[@28105wsking]

I found hiking in the Canyons anywhere quite a surprise, because coming back on the same path looked completely different in the afternoon than it did in the morning! I got so scared thinking I was lost! So I would concentrate on a tree, cactus, or distinctive rock and not the way the environment looks overall. And yes, turning around regularly is a very good idea. When the light changes, the canyon will look completely different. Using an app to stay on trail in the desert is a very good idea. Someday the trail will be better marked along the way with painted blazes, but for the time being, be careful. Cleaning and hygiene: some collapsible buckets are not heavy at all. Why not take one as a luxury item? besides coffee, of course! LOL! Great video, Dixie. Thank you!

[@icegypsy99]

Thank you so much for taking the time to do these. As a beginner there are so many questions, fears, anxieties

[@stitch3163]

I always enjoy these, Dixie, and think that it is great that you take the time to answer what might otherwise be considered embarrassing questions.

[@emory5533]

This weekend my friend and I are doing our first backpacking trip that will be half a mile from the parking lot to the "backwoods" site 😂 it's a perfect way for us to test out all our gear... And we might practice walking around the longer trails with our packs on. But we're mostly going to watch professional kayakers!

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

Half a mile 🤭. Well you’ve got to start somewhere. Well done for taking the plunge! (If you’re reading this I’m hoping you survived the ordeal!)

[@jimweston8224]

I don’t know how anyone can get lost. Yet some people can get lost in their living room.. people need to learn how to use their head and be able to think. When you are in the wild places you need to remember you are responsible for taking care of yourself.

[@johnkominar8417]

11:38 buy a Coghlan's Map Compass point the red arrow in the direction you want to walk, turn the dial until the N North lines up to the red end of the compass needle, walk, once you are done with your business turn the entire compass until the N North on the dial lines up with the black end of the compass needle, now follow the red arrow back to the trail 👣

[@jkelley9681]

Yup, simple and foolproof

[@jennazarlingo8092]

For my female bodied hikers: hiking in legging caused me to get a yeast infection on trail because of the lack of ventilation down there. No fun to have to choose between chafing or itching!!

[@koshersalt179]

Might be worthwhile to pack lotrimin....

[@arthurrsaker8893]

Just give her good scratch and go commando, she'll thank you for it !

[@viceb7]

​@@arthurrsaker8893 Arthur clearly doesn't know how vaginas work 😂

[@danadess]

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has a directory of previous thru-hikers with all sorts of conditions that you can contact for advice, including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, hip/knee replacements, blindless, diabetes, etc.

[@melvasaiel]

The question about getting lost when stepping off trail to use the bathroom is totally legit; that's how Geraldine Largay got lost and eventually died. Never hurts to make a plan even if it seems silly and you're SURE that you know the way back to the trail.

[@308dad8]

Look at your compass when departing trail then walk the opposite direction back to the trail. Could also blaze your trail with tape or bright fabric

[@DENVEROUTDOORMAN]

Just ask the bears for directions

[@neilestenson6595]

Compass, map, gps and nav skills- never get lost.

[@meganclapsadl6942]

my thought on supporting your partner who stays home was to take their needs into consideration and be sure to prep ahead of time. Such as stocking up groceries, setting bills to auto pay, scheduling a baby sitter for extra sessions, or letting safe frienda and family know when you are going so they can check in. You could also try to plan your trail and make a point to try and stop somewhere with service like a town in regularish intervals to call home and check in.

[@tamstergirl62]

YOU are so refreshingly honest and kind.. I appreciate you.

[@chemistryflavored]

Leggings with drawstrings are the only way to go! Totally relate to them falling down otherwise. Also I get technical leggings with reinforced butt and knee areas. They cost more but last longer. I’ve ripped my britches too many times when trying to clear downed trees and having to sew up your crotch area with dental floss mid hike isn’t super fun! Reinforced butt sure helped!

[@iainrenton7527]

You want your gear to last at least one hike, sewing up with dental floss is new to me did it last?

[@ChrisSunHwa]

Butt floss. lol

[@chemistryflavored]

@@iainrenton7527 yes floss is a great repair material. I still wear them running and never bothered repair with real thread so they still have mint dental floss stitching LOL nice and fresh! i just don’t wear them hiking anymore

[@chemistryflavored]

@@ChrisSunHwa more like crotch floss 😆

[@larryn8]

I’m a guy so I don’t really have any skin in the game As far as leggings go… But, from what it sounds like to me you should just reinforce the crotch area with dental floss when you buy them off the shelf instead of having to do it while on the trail.

[@ThanatosWings]

I'm hard of hearing and deaf in one ear. My hearing aids are rechargable and last one day. They are deffinatly not worth bringing with me on trail. The charger is big and bulky and they only last a short amount of time. They are somewhat water resistant as most phones are but not worth risking the $3 -$4 k cost of damaging aids in rain. That said I use a dog for hearing especially at night or near other hikers. This takes several years of training and hiking to fully get a routine down with a dog. I like Dixies suggestion of deaf patches (found on etsy) on your bag,, maybe a " tap to pass " patch, and hearing assistance patches on your dogs bag or vest on your dog. I also recomend bringing a scribble pad for talking instead of relying on your phone which may go dead. I wouldn't worry too much about sleeping. It has only happened to me once (in 16 years of hiking) where there was a large animal close to my tent. When that happened I could feel the ground vibrate with their foot steps and feel and see the tent moving. I slammed two books together to scare it away. And if you are with others have them pulse a light at your tent, come get you, or shake your tent to wake you incase of danger. There are a lot of people on the AT so nothing to worry about but people, tbh. But deffinatly don't let your abilities dictate what you can or can't do. If you can walk, you can hike. Don't be afraid, go for it! And say 🖐 if you see me.

[@autumnwishes8364]

Hi, thanks for your feedback on the HOH question! I was the person that asked Dixie the question and so thankful she chose to talk about it on her channel. You have a lot of great insight and suggestions! My aids uses 312 batteries so for me, I would need to ensure I have backup batteries. I definitely think I'm going to get patches that says I'm HOH and tap to pass. So glad you have found a way to enjoy your hikes and not have your HOH/deafness get in the way of your passion! I believe in that as well, I'm just need to be more confident in my abilities! 🤗

[@LWilli5]

A couple of years ago, a young woman from Australia carried a swim suit on her AT thru-hike. Her trail name was Toggs, the Australian term for swim suit.

[@bloodredrubyrose8740]

I love it, i am an Aussie and dream of going on the AT but, thats a while way for sure, but that nickname made me smile.

[@41degreesN12degreesE]

Is she the Toggs featured in Frozens AT thru hike videos?

[@LWilli5]

@@41degreesN12degreesE Yes, she is.

[@shawnr6117]

Use your tarp or poncho and trekking poles to make a quick 1 or 2 sided screen/shelter to do your business behind . It doesn't have to be pretty or last very long to get the job done

[@scottplumer3668]

Regarding supporting your non-hiking partner, when I go on a trip, I try to "earn" it by doing some extra stuff around the house, so she's not left with a bunch of housework to do while I'm away, like I'm sticking her with it. So, for example, I'll make sure the dishes are washed, laundry's caught up, etc. For longer trips (i.e., more than a weekend; not a thru-hiker) I'll bring her something back. A shirt from the park I went to, something like that. I'm also plus-sized, but I usually go alone. My advice is just to go with people who are willing to accept your slower pace. Don't say it like "I'm plus-sized" but rather say "I'm a beginner." If you were looking for groups to go with that aren't people you already know, look for beginner trips. REI & LL Bean both offer those kind of trips. Taking a beginner on a too-long or too-tough trip is a sure way to turn them off of backpacking. I try to stick with 5 - 7 miles per day and spend time in camp puttering around and cooking interesting food. I took my dachshund on trail with me many times when he was still around. He loved every minute of it, and actually confronted a coyote one time. He had a backpack, but he really wasn't able to carry much because I didn't want to string his back. He basically had a bag of treats on one side, and his tie-out on the other. It was nice because he could only do about 7 miles before he was done, and didn't wake me at 6 AM to go out.

[@pvesely299]

I am a pharmacist. Insulin is ok out of the fridge for (at least) 28 days

[@yousweetpotato1]

You’re just the sweetest, Dixie. Thanks for all the info you provide us, your cheerful energy, your inclusion of people of all ages and many different physical complications or abilities, and creating all this lovely community!

[@iainrenton7527]

2 years ago I went for a walk with my dog,, we walked about 450 miles. Sometimes it was easy and sometimes hard. My dog enjoyed every step of the journey and carried his food. I'm in the +55 age group.

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

Awesome. Love to know how he carried his food. Dog knapsack?

[@mariesmith5670]

@@sirrathersplendid4825 probably using a dog backpack, which you can purchase.

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

@@mariesmith5670 - Would love to try it. A long hike with my faithful hound. Of course will have to buy a dog first...

[@Barblooms]

I’ve used a Frio pouch for my glaucoma eye drops. The smallest pouch they sell was too big, so I sewed two seams down both parts and cut in between. No I have two and they’re perfect for a dropper bottle.

[@shastaham7630]

Another great video, Dixie. Onr tip about showering... Many, if not most town have truck stops. Large stops have paid showers. How else would truckers shower? Some can cost a bit because an employee or crew thoroughly cleans and sanitizers each room after every use (if they don't, keep walking). Also the better stops will have towels and laundries.

[@helpfulcommenter]

I can only think of maybe one or two places on the PCT where this would be true. Lol

[@shastaham7630]

@@helpfulcommenter Well, Cappy, they won't be right on the trail, of course, but, as an example, if hopping off the trail to shop or pick up mail in Mount Shasta, CA, there is one just a few miles up the road, between Mount Shasta and Weed, and another in Weed. I used to travel all over Northern CA, often having to sleep in my car (van). I was never more than a few miles from a hot meal and a hot shower. It just takes some searching and planning.

[@helpfulcommenter]

@@shastaham7630 yeah gyms work for vanlife, this is assured. but on a thru-hike, there's more efficient ways to get a hot shower! (trail angels for one) :)

[@alenamaudlin4455]

Loved the ? For deaf hikers. I was raised to pack in and out by my deaf dad....just a touch on the shoulder is the best way to start communication communication with the deaf. Don't be afraid of offending a deaf person they are completely aware that they can't hear😂

[@28105wsking]

So for older hikers like me, I suggest x-rays, if you have reason to wonder how much cartilege you have left and if your knees and hips and back are in good shape. I think it's the wisest move. Car camping instead. There are other ways to be involved: Trail magic Or supporting someone else's hike. People really need to take breaks and rest for a zero day, but motels are expensive. If you could donate a night and a laundry run, what a great gift!

[@AmyTouhill]

lol just saw the question about hiking as a diabetic! Wow! I have watched so many of your videos and wasn’t expecting this! I am glad I am not the only one who feels torn about the risks as hiking as a diabetic especially being alone. I believe the benefits of getting physical exercise and mental clarity of being outdoors will outweigh the possible risks.

[@AmyTouhill]

When I went I brought lots of sites for my Dexcom g7 and my omnipod 5 in case one gets pulled out by accident in my travels, which happened on my first trip and I didn’t realize until morning and my sugar was above 450. No fun while on trail! I ended up getting sick and having to wait for my sugars to come down to get up and start walking with my pack. I brought lots and lots of snacks and kept them easily accessible in the waistband pockets of my pack and glucose tabs in my bag, pants pockets and fanny pack. I also sucked it up and got a garmin in case I were to go into dka somehow, fall or anything else that could happen since without my insulin and food I would quickly be out of luck. I also have a frio, it’s amazing!

[@AmyTouhill]

I also brought insulin pens of my long acting and short acting insulins in case my pump were to fail and a regular glucose monitor as backup. I would also suggest extra batteries for the tester in case your cgm were to fail and then god forbid the batteries in your glucose meter! Thinking of the worst possible situations for me is always annoying but rather be safe than sorry. Also, your pack is your lifeline. Do not leave it with anyone you can not 1000000% trust (meaning not someone you just met!!!) and do not leave it outside your tent or on trail when using the bathroom. I also would separate some snacks from your main bear bag in case an animal were to get in there you would not be left with nothing.

[@zenleeparadise]

I live this series of q&a’s so much, it’s so useful for people and such a fun theme for questions. You’re very creative and, as always, I hope life is treating you well ♥️

[@NickEDowning]

Dixie, I must give you major profs for being so thorough with the details in your videos. They are all so very good. How long does it take you to put one of these videos together?

[@Drewcatmorris]

I can't help it, every time Dixie calls it "buried treasure" I start giggling.

[@therileyzoo]

Chiming in as both a veterinarian and service dog handler. As a vet providing filtered water to your canine companions in the back country is highly recommended because of parasites they can get by drinking out of ponds/streams/rivers and puddles. Bacterial diseases can be in the water sources such as leptospirosis. Ask your DVM what vaccines and preventatives you can give if you backpack/hike with your pup. :) On the service dog side of things. Dog owners should look into the laws in specific areas and follow the guidelines so service dog handlers are able to enjoy the backcountry in non-dog friendly federal lands (federal lands are typically service dog accessible despite the ADA requirements differing on federal (and church prperty) from those on State and public property.

[@aikirunner]

When I hiked the AT, I saw plenty of “plus sized” hiker doing Thru hikes and section hikes. But also there’s no such thing as plus sized on the trail. We come in all kinds of shapes and sizes.

[@20Hikecdt23]

Hearing aids-good question. I have profound hearing loss n wear HAids. On the trail i find my senses get “better” or “increase” n it seems i hear … “better”. So, usually i do not wear them in the trail, but in towns. AND all people who wear them will be fully equipped with spare batts n make arrangements for additional batts. I know its impossible for my hearing to get better but i think this happens. One has to realize you are experiencing a different noise n it is not drowning out other sounds. I thought your comment re a service dog was great. Thanks for the excellent video.

[@DNTMEE]

As to grabbing a shower, if you can find a truckstop along the way, they have complete bathrooms with shower available. If you don't mind asking around the place, you can often get a voucher for a shower. Truckstops give them to the truckers for filling up and they will often have more than they need. Also paid membership in the "Y" will allow you to use the facilities in any of their locations.

[@OnlyLoveIsWelcome]

I appreciate your videos and have binged nearly all of them during my research. Sharing is caring and you clearly care a lot❤ I have to also say, it's actually really upsetting to know how people treat hikers vs homeless people. They're one in the same yet if you're labeled a hiker instead of homeless well you're accommodated and treated like a human being. But omg if you're perceived to be homeless well now suddenly you're not worth helping or consideration. Why is this the case in 'Murica?

[@anana3322]

I just wanted to say in regards to the plus size person that's concerned, if you looked at me you would think that I must be a fit person, because I'm slim but sturdy. Nothing could be farther from the truth. My fitness level is very low. I'm slow on even ground but going uphill I have to take frequent rests and I sound like I'm going to collapse every second. The challenge is to find someone with the same fitness level as you. I have a friend who is plus sized and we don't hike together because she is a lot fitter than I am and get's annoyed that she has to wait for me. That's the same reason why I don't enjoy hiking with my partner because he leaves me in the dust. Usually I hike by myself and have pepper spray ready and always my phone easy to reach. When hiking with friends I know which ones are on the same fitness level as me. Just make sure that you are upfront with your fitness level and if they can't respect that, why are you still friends with them?!

[@panhandlejake6200]

For those who want to get out on the trail but are way out of shape --- get a doctor's guidance to protect your heart and to minimize chance of injury. Just walking any distance is a great start - start slow and increase your distance as your capability improves. You may actually see a little regression at first but don't lose hope. Set goals and reward yourself when achieved (could be a new piece of gear). There are camping clubs that may be a way to start getting out without being overly strenuous. Don't spend a lot on gear (possibly borrow) until you get a better idea for your long term objectives : just day hikes or eventual long mileage days.

[@FrankSchulenburg]

Amazing! I've been hiking small parts of the PCT and your advice is always spot on. I particularly like that you don't shy away from "difficult" questions. Thanks so much!

[@robertrockwell7581]

thanks Dixie all these are very helpful. and too everybody who's afraid too ask there is no such thing as a stupid question. it helps us all.

[@carolethorn3211]

You're so good at this. This is the most informative, thorough and sound advice from a you tuber I've come across.

[@angelicajacobs584]

Frio pack is amazing. I use that even when travelling or at the beach to keep my pump/insulin cool. Went on a 12 day camping trip no fridge only frio with my insulin and had zero issues. The more concerning part for me was dealing with camping in bear country and requiring sugar for low blood sugar treatment. That was more worrisome for me. I never let my dog drink water out in public, once we let her drink from a huge lake and she got so sick and the vet said don't let them drink water you don't know about.

[@angelicajacobs584]

To clarify about dog drinking...i give her water just it's my own water. I don't trust water in public, esp water in bowls on the street that nice shop owners put out. Guy in Toronto was poisoning those bowls. Just better if you can, to not let them drink anything that didn't come directly from you.

[@juliakra01]

For bear country camping, I have always put a thing of glucose tabs (or similar) in my shoe, and I haven't had any issues so far Also Frio is a lifesaver, I use my pack to carry insulin around in my diabetes bag and just refresh its water while I'm doing a site change

[@ironpig701]

For town showers you can look at truck stops as they rent showers also many campgrounds you can get a day pass to use the facilities like shower, laundry and such. Great video.

[@jimwagner6260]

And many truckers have spare shower credits That they would be willing to give you. drivers earn the points for the free showers by filling up

[@rosscollins2910]

@@jimwagner6260truck stop showers have become increasingly expensive during the pandemic, as high as $18 , I remember when everyone thought $5 was too high.

[@a.w.thompson4001]

Lyric disposable in-canal hearing aids can stay in for a month or two, and be left on or turned off as needed while sleeping. They're highly water resistant and you can shower or dunk in the bath, pond, etc., while wearing them. I've backpacked a lot using them. The biggest downside is the cost of the annual subscription.

[@autumnwishes8364]

Wow! I've never heard of disposable hearing aids before! I wonder if those would work for my type of loss which is moderate-severe sensorineural hearing loss.

[@a.w.thompson4001]

Because they're small enough to fit in ear canals, they're probably not powerful enough for all types of loss. I recommend talking to an audiologist or checking out online forums. Good luck, Autumn, and happy hiking! 😁

[@katherineg8469]

My roommate is a Type 1 diabetic and works as a forest patrol with the USFS and quite frequently spends many hours out in the wilderness. He has also done backpacking and manages his diabetes very well. He uses an insulin pump that connects to his phone and Apple Watch via Bluetooth and he uses that to monitor his levels. He has had diabetes all his life and very familiar with what works best to maintain blood sugar levels. He makes sure he has a few days worth of diabetic supplies and also different types of foods that will help his levels no matter how long he is going to be out. Hopefully that helps!

[@cynthiabartz2157]

I wanted to respond to the plus size hiking concerns. I am definitely overweight. And I have been pregnant during most of my hiking experiences. If you have a good group to go backpacking with, they will understand if you need to move at a different pace. Part of that is just communicating expectations to the group of how many miles per day, time spent in camp, time spent at landmarks, etc. And I think that is an important part of any trip, regardless of your experience or fitness level. I have done hikes that are classified as "hard" with my husband who is in better shape than me and has longer legs. I just move at a slower pace and stop more often. Don't feel like you just have to do "easy" hikes because you are plus sized. In fact, my kids (4 & 2) have done "moderate " hikes.

[@cailin5309]

So true! I’ve seen people of all shapes & sizes doing hard trails.. I’m slim & I’ve seen bigger people doing trails with ease that happen to be kicking my butt. Strength, energy, balance, endurance.. none of that is designated for any specific body weight!

[@steverhodes3054]

Love your new smile, but then again I loved the original smile too.

[@ThanatosWings]

If you get lost going to the bathroom, you can use your bear hang line to find your way. Get a line you can see ok, like floresent yellow with reflective marks, then tie it to a tree that you can still see the trail from and unwind it as you go to a good spot, then wind it back up on your return.

[@raeperonneau4941]

You have such a lovely way of describing sensitive topics! 😂

[@thek3743]

Well it isn't sensitive, just human nature.

[@lyfandeth]

Dixie, we used to use bright crepe paper, biodegradeable and cheap, for flagging in empty places. If you want something reuseable just buy a roll of silver or gold mylar ribbon. Lasts forever and flashes in the sunlight. Tie a yard on a branch every fifty or hundred feet.

[@dennisoverholts8396]

Resiliance is key atribute for things like this

[@AcrylicGoblin]

CPAP Alternative...a moldable anti snoring mouthpiece (available on Amazon). They work surprisingly well. I never travel with my CPAP anymore, the mouthpiece does the job adequately.

[@justjonoutdoors]

I have a brother who, while not deaf, is well embedded in the deaf community (among other things, he teaches ASL). His experience is that deaf people maintain that they can do anything a hearing person can do, maybe even better. My experience (as a law enforcement officer dealing with deaf people (suspects, victims and witnesses)) is that they not only feel that way, but almost obnoxiously so, to the point that if you attempt to make any accommodation for their condition, they get angry. They treat it as a “non-disability” to the point of absolute unreasonableness at times.

[@olive6957]

I've been watching your videos for at least year (probably more though) and I really appreciate the language you used while talking about hoh/deaf hikers. I am Deaf myself and many people will call me 'hearing impaired' or other insulting terms, so thank you for using hoh and deaf instead.

[@blinkventure6497]

referring to not getting lost, when going off trail for a bathroom break or any other reason. a simple lightweight compass, is an indispensable tool. always having a reference of your bearings, is very important. basic orienteering skills/land navigation can be a life saver

[@MunchWillbeBlue]

22:00 I love the wording "not finding buried treasure" ^.^

[@sagehiker]

On the stay at home partner, encourage visits to all those out-laws you can't stand. You get to hike and your partner gets their family high. My Ex asked for photos, prints, she could use in a scrapbooking album after a long resistance to my hiking. When we split, she kept the album. And insistent on keeping it. [Long time subscriber; I love watching all video roll. Oh that is Dixie there, and there, and I know that scene on the CDT)

[@fredsmythe4731]

A small compass to get back on trail during "potty breaks"

[@lisaray6493]

A skort and pstyle are a great option for women. Pull all your undies and shorts to one side, situate the device and Presto. No splashback or dripping down the leg. It’s a gals best friend

[@hikesperry8339]

I still don't feel completely comfortable standing to use the device, but for me it is worth it not having to take my pack off and put it back on again. Plus you don't need tp with it. I am SO over seeing tp near trails!

[@helenglenn234]

I wear loose running shorts and pull the fabric to one side, squat and pee…quick dab of pee rag or tp.

[@user-tn7xo7ky9o]

Involving lived ones while on thru hike: My senior father wishes he could go on my adventures & on the flip side he stresses out big time! I bought a Garmin so I can text him at arranged times & can receive his text (generally I don't have cell service) B4 the trip I go over the route w my dad. Then he's my Base camp manager. If I'm at risk of storms or fires it's his job to notify me & find me a way around or spot to hunker down. Send me resupplies, broken gear replacements &/ or gear I didn't bring & just can't live without. Then if he hasn't heard from me within set time frame of scheduled communication, haven't moved, can't track my movement, or I'm moving to fast,.... He's responsible to call local authorities. I always pack w my Rottie & we've talked about getting her GPS. She's will trained & never roams more than 6' from me except for swimming so if GPS showed two of us separated it would b red flag. My father enjoys his role very much & doesn't worry as much. Can't do anything about the human crazies out there other than my trained Rottie & pp Happy Trails

[@davidcox9115]

Thank you for all the effort and time you spend bringing us these videos...I followed your AT PCT and CDT you are an amazing person to complete such a mental and physical challenge..thanks again..oh. you are adorably beautiful too..

[@Jsart87]

Hey there. Great video. Wondering if you might be able to do a video with some more details on PCT camping locations. Is it first come first serve? Can you camp anywhere? What happens if designated spots are full? I’ve never been able to get these answers on peoples thru hike videos. 😀

[@davidbuben3262]

This is the United states of America. Camp were ever you want. But be ready to defend it buddy.

[@myphone9831]

You pretty much camp everywhere, following local restrictions (like stay 200 feet away from water or the trail, etc.)

[@beckinator44]

The pct guides (gut hook is most popular) all seem to note the camping spots but I’ve always noticed that room for 1 tent = room for 3 tents etc. There are also additional sites that are not listed. The hikers are usually nice too and don’t mind having an extra tent at the edges.

[@drdirtkansas6824]

our diabetics are on the insulin pump (type 1) and they have a week of insulin in the pump about 2x the size of a zippo lighter. No refrigeration. Usually key with fast acting insulin like Novolog is not freezing or overheating ... from the Novolog site "Once in use, NovoLog® FlexPen® must be kept at room temperature below 86°F for up to 28 days." so it keeps at Room temp for a month

[@phillaroe6107]

To ease your partner while hiking as they stay home a Garmin inreach is a fantastic tool. You can send daily short messages (frequency depends on the Garmin subscription you purchase) while I was hiking the John Muir trail I camped next to a young man who was upset because he missed his wife and we were far from a town. I let him use my Garmin and he was able to send and receive several messages and that was a great relief for him.

[@XwaYdesu]

Dogs, diabetes, and Deaf/HH + captions! Linking my friend immediately! Thank you Dixie! ❤

[@mikeherpel6308]

Also a good size square piece of hunter orange cloth hung at the trail from two trees or bushes as high as you can reach can also work. I have done this at times when I am hunting and drop my pack to fetch water or firewood it can be used for quite a ways providing cover is not to thick. On the same note carrying a whistle, law enforcement style not cheap plastic style, can be heard from a good distance in case help is needed.

[@whoever6458]

If I get caught going to the bathroom (which has happened a number of times since I do a lot of day hikes where there are lots of other people), I either laugh about having had to expose the "white flag of truth" or I simply say, "When you gotta go, you gotta go." That has always worked just fine. One time, I had to pee but there were other hikers everywhere on this urban trails that went through the hills. It's big enough that certainly any hydrated person would have to pee at some point along it but there were just people everything and I was embarrassed. So I walked down this gulley between two hills further and further. Now I had seen mountain lions every so often for my entire life hiking on these trails so I knew they were around, which is why I became quite alarmed when I finally didn't hear people but I did hear a rather large animal in the bushes far too close to where I was. I thought that I had had the misfortune of coming upon the lion's den and I knew I would be able to escape so I decided to at least see the lion that I assumed was going to maul me. To my shock, three full-sized deer when running out of the bushes and straight up the side of the hill! Mind you, these hills are coastal sage scrub habitat so there are very few places where a deer of any size would be able to be without anyone seeing them, let alone three completely full-sized deer! As much as I like to see the lions from a distance, I'm glad it was deer instead of lions and, since I was younger than I am now, I managed not to piss myself upon hearing large animals in the bushes close by.

[@BankgeekOutdoors]

Thanks for the index to jump to topics!

[@Twotone-ld1fb]

I'm late to this video and have type 1 diabetes (since I was 2 years old). As to storing insulin I have NEVER kept insulin I am currently using refrigerated. It's good at room temp for about a month before it starts to lose potency. And then it still works but you just have to be careful with adjusting dosage as needed since even though it starts to lose potency it still has some working ability. It's not like it hits that mark and turns to dust. As to dealing with sharps on trail. I'm kind of a bad person because I reuse my needles. I'll typically use the same needle tell it gets dull. Always have. Though there is a risk of causing an infection. Which I have had happen once in my 44 years of dealing with the condition. I also don't typically clean the injection site with alcohol unless its dirty. Not saying you should do the same, but that's my experience. So if you're in the off situations were you can't be 100% hospital hygienic doctor approved, its not the end of the world.

[@lorfanfromtexas3739]

I have rechargeable hearing aids and carry my recharger to recharge them overnight. The charger gives about 4-5 recharges so I'm usually fine till I get off trail. you just have to recharge it like you would charge your power bank in town. No hearing aid batteries to deal with. Sweat or rain could be an issue but I want to hear everything on the trail during the day so I wouldn't go without them.

[@PaulEgges]

You maybe able to find local meetup backpack groups that may organize different backpack trips.

[@PaulEgges]

I actually hiked in my patagonia swimsuit/shorts. They had a swimsuit type liner so I'm not sure if they were suppose to be shorts or a swimsuit. Now that I'm diving in Mexico, they are my swimsuit of choice.

[@rolfdenver]

I got lost one night on the Colorado Trail for about 15 minutes when stepping out to go No. 2. And I nearly lost my (gray) backpack when I put it down a little off the trail while stepping off for a No. 2 call in broad daylight. I’m much more careful now.

[@Thes564]

Insulin pens keep without refrigeration for 30 days so they are perfect for hiking/camping just remember to take extra needles.

[@danieloleary4560]

Getting lost going to the bath room. A compass . If you go east off the trail go west to find it.