Gear I STOPPED Taking Backpacking

Winter Layering: • The ONE Big Mistake Th...
Why I don't take Bear Spray: • Bear Spray Alternative...
Layering sleeping pads:
• The KEY To Warm Winter...
Dyneema Rain Cover: geni.us/BLctKzr
Water Bottle Tube Adapter: geni.us/VStBts8
Bear Research:
Halt Tested on Bears: bit.ly/3n0sVWn
Spray vs Rocks: bit.ly/3bVcqon
Bear Attacks are rare: bit.ly/3kp3pbD
How Dangerous are Black Bears: bit.ly/3F3qBUG
Most the Gear I DO Take:
Zpacks Arc Haul: geni.us/9WSlG8y
ZenBivy Light Bed: geni.us/sYvMe
BA ZOOM UL Pad: geni.us/pWpe6
Duplex Zip Tent: geni.us/OOhn
Plex Solo Tent: geni.us/reUOLKS
Toaks 650 ML Pot: geni.us/UD9ebpz
Pocket Rocket Deluxe: geni.us/eFQukK
BearVault 450: geni.us/Iet0r
Hilltop Food Bag: geni.us/k9MNDBR
Bogler Trowel: geni.us/VUndA
Farpointe Alpha Hoodie: geni.us/fdIA
Zpacks Rain Jacket: geni.us/Gv15
Gossamer Gear Umbrella: geni.us/kI9FMH
Nitecore NU25 UL: geni.us/ldPZ
Nitecore NB10000: geni.us/ptM4Xm
Helinox Chair Zero: geni.us/79QH
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[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Winter Layering: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4DKp2iVrblpiZY Why I don't take Bear Spray: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n567pJuPlsqLqJY Layering sleeping pads: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJCnaouirbqqd7M Dyneema Rain Cover: geni.us/AN73 Water Bottle Tube Adapter: geni.us/x0ojc8r *Bear Research:* Halt Tested on Bears: bit.ly/3n0sVWn Spray vs Rocks: bit.ly/3bVcqon Bear Attacks are rare: bit.ly/3kp3pbD How Dangerous are Black Bears: bit.ly/3F3qBUG *Most the Gear I DO Take:* Zpacks Arc Haul: geni.us/3pBiA ZenBivy Light Bed: geni.us/5319bg BA ZOOM UL Pad: geni.us/gprgMe Duplex Zip Tent: geni.us/Agxnca Plex Solo Tent: geni.us/ahG1KjD Toaks 650 ML Pot: geni.us/yfCYqCh Pocket Rocket Deluxe: geni.us/3MrUHA BearVault 450: geni.us/qJ0A Hilltop Food Bag: geni.us/nh21IP Bogler Trowel: geni.us/evIJfd Farpointe Alpha Hoodie: geni.us/EGWb9nd Zpacks Rain Jacket: geni.us/7BYPG Gossamer Gear Umbrella: geni.us/Sd687 Nitecore NU25 UL: geni.us/3ThMg Nitecore NB10000: geni.us/uVqBML Helinox Chair Zero: geni.us/Zremfj

[@kevinharding2099]

I’m 74 and have hiked all my life (and done limited backpacking). I agree with most of your assessments, but I always still carry a knife for emergencies and for small tasks and I carry bear spray when in bear country. I have never used the spray, but it gives me peace of mind and let’s face it, humans are far more dangerous than bears and bear spray works very well against humans!

[@Swimdeep]

As a 61 year old solo female hiker, I just said nearly the same thing as you. ✊🏼🌿 Edit: Autocorrect mistake

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

If I wasn’t flying for most my trips and bear spray wasn’t $50 to just be thrown away when it’s time to get back on the plane. I might take it more. But for humans not bears.

[@nedanother9382]

I was gonna say it was a waste of time carrying spray...until the end. Yes take the spray. Cheers

[@Petit-Jose]

@@MyLifeOutdoors A flying hiker !

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Lol. Quite the opposite

[@k1bsTV]

I personally think "no knife" is far more of a leap than "no bear spray in black bear country". I've felt the same away about bear spray for a long time, but a knife is definitely worth the 0.32 oz, IMO.

[@michael83479]

I think it's worth just taking the little victorinox Swiss army knife that is .7oz it has scissors, a knife and some tweezers. I've really only needed the scissors but for now I have it with me

[@k1bsTV]

@@michael83479 Yeah, I usually pack an Opinel No. 4 (hence the 0.32 oz). Big enough to be handy, weighs next to nothing.

[@donaldstrader7241]

@@k1bsTV Opinel knives provide a lot of cutting length for weight and size. I know someone who did the John Muir Trail, with a couple others, and took a Victorinox Compact and an Opinel Slim. He said the Opinel was in frequent demand for food prep. I can't say I have hiked enough to have a valuable opinion, but my last trip to New Zealand, and hikes there, I used a Victorinox Huntsman and used it frequently for all sorts of things. Now I'll have to watch the video. ;-)

[@overwatchxrescue]

The biggest issue with taking knives on trips is that there are often so many legal regulations when going through international borders or into airports. And even sometimes state or provincial laws. Sometimes it feels like it's not worth the hassle!

[@donaldstrader7241]

@@overwatchxrescue You have a point, although a non-locking SAK should probably pass muster most places, if you are not trying to enter secured areas. I have thought a couple times, especially if flying with no checked bags that a pair of EMT shears might be the way to go. Either full sized or less to seem even more inoffensive. They will cut cordage, bandages, food packs, and can serve as a scraper. Plus they are low cost. One never knows. My daughter was injured (glass gash to a hand) on a trip to Australia and she had her Mom's Wenger AT Clipper with her to trim gauze/bandages as she was returning to the states. She is relatively diminutive, inoffensive, and had carried the Wenger AT (AirTravel) Clipper through several checkpoints on her meandering trip. She was stopped by some overly officious security person who said the nail file was too pointed. Because of the shape I could see them checking it, but barring it? Say what. I think just because he looked at it (or wanted to keep it?? if one was cynical) he wanted to justify the check. It would have been a pain as Victorinox now makes a Clipper version, but not the AT without a blade like Wenger had available. I have carried the same model both checked and unchecked and never had a problem. IIRC it was checked a time or two and immediately passed when the "blade shape" was just a fingernail file. What had always concerned me was that instead of a blade they put in an eyeglass screwdriver. which having a very small tip, is sharp. Of course they did not comment on the arguably more pointy part as it was not shaped like a blade, I guess. I don't know how she managed this, maybe a sympathetic airline employee who thought security was being ridiculous, she managed to go back and check it. So all was well in the end, after probably some stressful rush. I told her she might have been able to go out to a sidewalk and file away the dull "point" so it was squared off. But of course her solution worked better.

[@jefffaircloth8603]

Knives are incredible, versatile tools. I carry one every day and use it all the time. Not having one on a hike or backpacking trip would be a no go for me.

[@tavelkyosoba]

You can use them for anything...but they're the wrong tool for everything, and you know it's the truth lol. One time i left a knife in pants pocket and threw it in the laundry, it opened up midwash and put little burrs all over the dryer drum, and then those burrs shredded 2 loads of laundry before i realized what happened...upon reflection i realized I'd never actually even used a knife out of "necessity", bur rather because i couldn't be bothered to walk 3 feet to get the right tool, and decided i really don't need to carry one. Have never looked back.

[@FelloDello]

​@@tavelkyosobato me it just seems like your hatred of knives comes from your incredible ineptitude, when dealing with them.

[@ASAP2525]

@@FelloDellonaw he’s right if I was given the choice of a knife or a hatchet in a survival situation it’s no contest knife looses every time. Knifes are like multi tools the mid at everything but better than nothing

[@tavelkyosoba]

​@@FelloDello yes gary, yes.

[@tavelkyosoba]

@@ASAP2525TBH I use kitchen/utility sheers more than anything. I know they're not mountain man cool but my god are they useful. I like the kind that come apart so you can use the blades for shaving or carving if you need.

[@Macherian20]

As an Alaskan you learn very quickly to never say never…. I always have a knife and have needed it in an emergency and have needed bear spray on multiple encounters. Again, Alaska is a unique place and calls for a much different level of preparation than many other places in the lower 48. I’ve had it go from a warm 70F in the mountains with bluebird sky to 29F and snowing with 40mph winds in just a few hours. Ironically one of my out of state friends who came with us on the trip asked why the heck we needed to pack puffy jackets and gloves. He understood that evening!

[@burningsporkdeath]

I've done Alaska and Montana and I agree with all of this.

[@donovanarmstrong7853]

The footprint is more for wet ground. It’s to help ensure your tent isn’t getting wet underneath, keeping you warmer.

[@libertybysweat6281]

Definitely, I camp out on the BC west coast and you couldn’t stay warm or dry without protecting the bottom of your tent.

[@andrewwhitehead2002]

Supporting that from the UK. The footprint really reduces condensation on the inside of the fly sheet.

[@GarGri]

Rather than saving a few grams on the weight of a footprint, I'm taking mine to keep the underside of my tent dry in the morning when dew has saturated the underneath of my footprint.

[@phillippitts6294]

That’s a 100% right.

[@Vyz3r]

Yep, you can also use it for more than just a footprint for your tent. It can act as a ground sheet to sit/lay on, a sheet to lay your stuff on, an emergency cover during a rain, and a makeshift carrying bag.

[@Andy-Mesa]

Groundsheets aren’t just to protect tent floors. They work for siestas, cowboy camping, shade, extra shelter, hitch signs, or keeping anything you want off the dirty ground or floor. You can even just use an emergency blanket and have it pull double duty. It also prevents moisture from getting up through the vestibules and provides a nice little porch.

[@turtlepoi]

and hammocks!

[@andrewb4130]

I have a footprint in front of my tent as a landing pad to put my shows on and to get dressed on.

[@texasirving4815]

Yup how can you even consider not taking a ground sheet if youve ever camped in the rain …. You know …required

[@MyAnno1404]

The knife is essential for a survival situation that might arise when your other gear fails. You ll never use it - until you need it.

[@VincentGroenewold]

Yep, agreed there, as well as a compass or a small fire starter.

[@sebi2395]

I go minimal gear/ survival “mode” a lot, during all seasons, from 60F to -30F. You will use the knife 99 percent of the time for battoning wood, nothing else. Solution, i carry a folding saw. Getting logs is better than sticks - long lasting fire, low maintenance, less effort overall, high heat obtainable with different setups.

[@MyAnno1404]

@@sebi2395 a saw will work aswell but is actuelly bigger and weighs more then a knife. Thats why a knife is essential - atleast if you dont bring a saw ;-)

[@Mezekaldon]

But, to at least do the thumbnail justice, the knife probably doesn't need to be multi-thousand dollar Shirogorov. A $150 Manix 2 lightweight is probably better anyways.

[@alancalkins2656]

I don't leave the house without a pocket knife

[@mikeroy6713]

I think there’s a time and situation for all these pieces of gear depending on the area. I will never, ever wear trail runners in the snow again. Until I have a garage full of tents like you do, I will continue to protect my tent with some sort of footprint so it will last. And never will I ever forgo a 2 ounce knife because I don’t want to carry the extra weight.

[@tapani4587]

The closed cell pad is definitely a winner in my book. I was no a 8 day trek a while ago where all the others had only inflatable mattresses. Every single brake I'd have to share my pad it with someone. It was basically our couch for the week whenever we were eating or just lounging at camp. They're fast to throw on the ground and pack back up, gives instantly a warm, dry, and soft surface to rest on. Edit: and they are silent to sleep on :) No creaking mattress whenever you turn like some inflatables.

[@cerenademe9433]

I LOVE my Z-Seat cushion! It's only 2 ounces, and with my skinny, boney a$$, it's really nice to have something that hangs off my pack, weighs practically nothing, and give me a place to rest my sit bones when there's nothing but rocks.

[@turtlepoi]

that footprint will do the same

[@grundegrimstad4703]

I SO agree on the non waterproof shoes! Not bringing a knife is plain crazy..

[@wohlhabendermanager]

On my first hike I needed a knife to put a new hole in my synthetic leather belt. Because apparently I lost so much weight on the first day that my trousers kept slipping down, even though I already was on the very first notch of the belt. And let me tell you, trying to climb up some rocks is way more difficult when your trousers slip down your backside. 😅 So yeah, I would always bring a knife. You never know what you might have to use it for!

[@Rabascan]

I do disagree with a knife. Even if you typically don't end up using it, it's one of these 'just in case'-things. It's an ultimate and versatile tool and even though I agree that you typically will not need it, the options it offers at such small size and weight make it a no-brainer for me.

[@ReasonableRadio]

scissors can be used for a lot of tasks that might be an "emergency knife" situation, and many that knives can't, however both really isn't a ton of weight

[@SummitSeeker546]

The most important aspect to backpacking, for me, is a dry, safe, and secure nights sleep. I’m a big fan of a tent footprint to protect my tent floor from abrasions and moisture and to protect my inflatable pad from a possible puncture. Nothing worse than trying to sleep on a pad that leaks air or is flat. The closed cell foam pad is one of my favorite items to have with me. It’s my sit pad, yoga pad, star gazing pad, stove wind breaker, vestibule door mat, gear dump pad, and sleep system leveler (use as a wedge to level out the ground of a sloped tent pitch), and when used under your air pad provides additional warmth and prevents slippage (a must for dyneema tent floors). I won’t backpack without one!

[@RobertPasekoff]

I've gone back and forth on the tent footprint. Ultimately, I've decided that I prefer to use one. When the rain keeps coming down long enough, even the best ground prep occasionally fails. I have found that I just seem to stay dryer with a footprint than without one.

[@julietousignant3253]

Even without rain, I feel that footprint keeps humidity away. I've too been septic about the foot print, but I tried it in camping with a car so I didn't care about the weight and it was a revelation! Not sure I would take it on every hike, but surely when it's been raining or I'll stay close to river beds.

[@user-jk2zm7uq5s]

This + usually the footprint will be moist/wet and dirty (from the dirt/earth) in the morning, if only because of condensation (moisture from the ground). I'd rather pack the dirty/wet/moist footprint seperately from the dry tent to have a nice, clean and dry tent the next night. Sometimes the ground sheet gets sandy too - I'd rather keep sand away as far as possible from tmy tent, especially the zippers. Wet, dirty sandy muddy ground sheet goes in a small freezer bag away from the clean and hopefully dry tent so it can't wreak havoc over there. Instead of a custom footprint I simply use a thin (=lightweight) sheet of plastic (cut to size) from the painting section of the home and hardware store. (Its intended use is "covering furniture once while you paint your walls/ceiling). Once it looks/is worn out it gets replaced - and one package (30 sqare meters or something) lasts a decade or so. And yes, I'd rather have a gash in a thin, easily replacable piece of groundsheet than in my tent floor. And yes, I already had to tape it at least once on a trip. Also: no prickly things on the ground where you hike?

[@Swimdeep]

@@user-jk2zm7uq5s Better than the plastic, is a cut-to-size piece of Tyvek for your footprint. It’s hardier, easier to clean up, and provides some insulation from the ground the plastic sheeting doesn’t.

[@JordanBuzzy]

interesting. my experience has been that water gets trapped on top of the footprint and never goes away

[@ResumeStudios]

@@JordanBuzzy make sure your footprint is just a bit smaller than the actual tent flooring so that the tent covers it completely. This will keep most moisture from getting between the footprint and the tent. Otherwise, yea the water will stay around a while between the two

[@Obi-Wan_Pierogi]

Knife. My dad gave be a small pen knife years ago. He told me I should always carry one. I never did... until he passed away. Today would have been his 77th birthday. It also marks the last time I spoke to him one year ago... The knife goes with me every time I hike or camp. I rarely need it, but it's not about that for me.

[@mcsequoia5107]

Not a very experienced backpacker here, but I get not carrying a dedicated knife, but I'd still carry a small Swiss Army Knife, as it has a small blade, tweezers, scissors an awl and screwdrivers. It's on my key chain already anyway. I'm also of the mindset that some basic tools might come in handy for someone else in my party or someone we encounter.

[@carsonjacobs8487]

I see the no knife thing all over youtube with the proliferation of ultra light but I always carry a mora companion; light, cheap, easy to sharpen, insanely durable for what it is. I dont use it every trip but one time i needed it and was glad to have it. Im more of a day hiker and bushcrafty camper than distance hiker though

[@Horde334]

Don't you know if an ultra light person isn't forcibly putting arbitrary weight limitations and even adding something as simple as a map, compass, and knife is is just too much weight and the equivalence of a boat anchor? Jokes aside it does boggle my mind that even carrying a simple swiss army knife is omitted cause its "too much extra weight" maybe its my mindset but even outside the urban jungle if you go out into nature you should never have the mentality of "I've never been in trouble and i won't ever get into trouble" cause that's just blatant complacency.

[@LifeEnemy]

​@@Horde334 Most ultralighters get there from a lot of experience, knowing what works for them and how they could adapt if need be. Not to say that some don't take it foolishly-far. Though I at some point it's more of a challenge/bragging rights kind of thing, which is fine. Different strokes and all

[@Horde334]

@@LifeEnemy true i suppose my biggest gripe is with the ones who make it some kind of dick waving contest to see how light they can pack while going against any form of logic such as learning basic land nav and carrying a map cause overreliance on gps has gotten people lost cause even on established trails people have gotten lost in some way. I'll never really understand the ultra light mindset cause it just involves too much on expecting everything to go exactly as planned especially putting faith in weather reports being 100% accurate.

[@chasecreechproduction6914]

The rock kick while talking about cleaning your camp site was comedic gold

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Lol. That was all I did to prepare it for my tent.

[@dave_clarke]

It often feels like a lot of what people carry is to look the part rather than what is needed, and I have certainly been guilty of this in the past too. Whatever the case, it is important to recognise also that just because you didn't use it on one trip, doesn't mean you won't on another. For instance, I am a bikepacker. I am for sure taking tools and stuff to deal with punctures every single time. I carry a Leatherman rather than a dedicated knife. It does everything I need and I think I could do some basic firewood prep with it if I absolutely had to.

[@mikeroy6713]

Good point. Like first aid /repair. Best case scenario is you don’t have to even look at it but if you’re caught without it…..

[@siberx4]

Using your waterproof shell as an extra warmth layer when it's particularly cold is a great tip and is something people forget about. Reducing air exchange and cutting wind with the outside using a (mostly) impermeable layer lets your insulating layers work much more efficiently. I don't bring a big folding knife, but I do always bring my swiss army knife. It's smaller/lighter and has a large enough blade to be useful, in addition to the scissors/pliers/openers/tweezers/picks etc I'd want to bring anyway. Black bears are, by and large, pretty chill. Unless you do something very stupid they won't give you trouble. Grizzlies are a different story.

[@wolf1066]

My standard for hiking is to wear a polypropylene t-shirt since it wicks water away from the skin when I sweat. Weather turns cold/windy, I just throw my single-layer windproof, showerproof (not fully waterproof) jacket on and instantly feel fine again - just a layer of polyprop and a layer of nylon. Cutting out that wind or cold air does utter wonders. When I stop moving, I might feel inclined to throw a fleece layer on for more warmth - but when I'm toiling along the trail, feel plenty warm without it.

[@dadiesel44]

I work outside year round. Southern USA so it doesn’t get real cold. But in the coldest months I discovered a light rain jacket over a regular ass hoodie will keep me warmer than any carhart or other similar heavy jacket ever will. And is lighter and more comfortable

[@HostileTakeover2]

Besides abrasion protection, a footprint is great protection against damp/wet ground when you don't have a choice. And at 3 oz, I don't mind bringing my 6 Moons Polycro footprint on every trek. If I know it's going to be rainy, I might bring the one that goes with my tent as it's only 10 oz, but I'll still have that 6 Moons regardless since it weighs nothing and takes up no space.

[@TracyHall_DreamsAndLogic]

One suggestion to try: the inflatable pad definitely gives you more *distance* from a cold surface - but the air itself still circulates, and in my limited experience can feel pretty cold. With the thin closed-cell (if you're using it) on TOP of the inflatable, thermodynamically you are likely to be *better* insulated than if it's *below* the inflatable.

[@ricoelectric]

finally someone else said it

[@Drinksfromtap]

Never thought of it that way but it makes a lot of sense!

[@turtlepoi]

Yep!

[@joonies82]

I agree with almost all, great vid. Def need knife however. I find I use it quite a lot in the woods. Knife is like a first aid kit - I know a lot of times you may not need it, but the same goes for bandages, moleskin, band aids, tourniquet etc Knife has also so many uses if you bother to get it out. Love the vids, as always!

[@1519Spring]

For me, it's about the size of the knife. Only as big as you need it to be.

[@joonies82]

I say bigger the better hahaha. Yeah that's prob why my base weight is usually at least 25 pounds 😂

[@d.i.m.eproductions6925]

Do you carry field dressings and celox/quik clot?

[@fluffbigrollingmarshmallow]

I definitely agree on the quick drying trail runners vs waterproof boots. Last year I bought a new pair of waterproof boots, as my old hiking boots were getting rather worn (leather hiking boots, which I did actually love btw, because, well, leather - molds to your foot perfectly). This year, my first hike, I had pain in my feet I had never experienced before. I ordered a pair of Altra Olympus zero drop, and absolutely love them. What sold me on never going back to waterproof boots was that my first hike with the Olympus was in April, and I was post holing in 2' deep snow, and crossing rather deep snow melt streams. Each time I crossed a stream, within 30 minutes or so my feet felt dry. They may not have been, but it was quite cooling each time I stepped in another stream, and was a relief on my feet. So I feel like whatever coolness was there from the last stream crossing, it was long gone and my feet were probably fairly dry. My most recent trip was five days on the Cohos Trail, which was a stupid idea considering the record breaking rain we've had in June & July. But off I went! Two of those days were in ankle deep, black, slimy, suck-you-in mud all day long. My Olympus looked absolutely trashed at the end of each day, and required some massive scrubbing down in water. Plenty dry enough in the morning, and sure glad I didn't have the extra weight of waterproof boots on top of the black, slimy mud stuck to my shoes as I pulled my foot out on each step every day! I also have never carried bear spray. I live in NH, and frequently have bears in my yard. They don't ever seem too bothered by me, and certainly never approach, but if my dog ( a whopping 12 pounds) is out with me and he starts towards a bear, the bear usually goes up the nearest tree. My cat has even treed a bear before, so after years of experience with them around my home, I've never felt the need to have bear spray. I've only ever hiked/camped in grizzly country once, decades ago, and never even gave bears a thought (young and stupid...). Old and wiser, I'm not sure I will ever hike in grizzly country! LOL

[@marclaliberte5491]

I've owned three air mattresses, and none lasted more than two weeks without puncturing. Maybe I'm doing something bad, I don't know, but I've gone back to closed cell foam pads. Now, I'm not geting any younger and I'm a side sleeper, so my hips don't like it when I sleep on a lone closed cell foam pad. I therefore double it with a 1/4" EVA foam pad. Total weight for both pads is 1.25 pounds (600 g), R value is 2.8, confort is a tad less than an air mattress but good enough. This is superfast to set-up and take down and will never fail me. Reliability is the key for me there.

[@russjohnson9330]

Groundsheet: save the nylon foot print for car camping where the ground may hold broken glass or sharp-edged bottle caps. Use a poly-cro ground sheet under the tent. Practically weightless and doubles up as emergency tarp, solar still, etc. Knife: i actually like to cook real foot on a backpacking trip. plus the occasional bonanza of edible wild mushrooms. so I take an Opinel knife. not the best quality blade, but the round handle is very comfortable for food prep. Plus, I don't worry about loosing a $300 Benchmade on a backpacking trip. the Opinel #8 fits my hand perfectly and is $20. you are going to need a good pair of very sharp scissors if you use Leukotape. So pre-cut the tape and stick a few pieces down on a piece of backing for labels (is you have a home office and do mailing). Rain cover: I believe in double protection. I use durable trash compactor bags as a pack liner PLUS a silicone & nylon rain cover. Pro tip: my rain cover is florescent orange. I use it on perfectly clear days in hunting season in areas where a certain square footage of safety orange is required on the body. Waterproof boots: Yes for cold wet weather. Just remember gaiters for snow. Long Underwear: Those are my pajamas and I can layer over them if it gets really cold. Or wear them while I wash my other clothes on a town day on a longer trip. Close-cell foam pads: I cut mine in half lengthwise and taped it to make a "Hinge". Perfect for padding to sit a few people on for a lunch break in wet/cold weather. Fold in half for a log or ledge or use in "L" configuration for a bench with a back. Quick to deploy in an emergency. I lead groups and someone always needs to sit to put on moleskin, adjust crampons, wrestle on an knee brace, or sit and wait for help due to injury.

[@dereinzigwahreRichi]

The big advantage of a tent footprint in ongoing bad weather is that you dont have a muddy piece of ground in your apsis but a piece of sober ground you can put you stuff on, also your raingear and backpack that you dont want inside your tent nor to be totally muddy. Sure, you could do this with a piece of groundsheet just for the apsis but protecting your tent floor isnt the worst either. You could use a tarp for both functions that you can also set up over your tent as a sun protection when its extremely hot or for a bit of protected group space outside.

[@HostileTakeover2]

For the pack liner, I flip-flop between a contractor bag and one of the mint-scented kitchen trash bags. Mint scented because raccoons & certain other critters don't like that smell so aren't tempted. Plus makes my stuff smell nice :)

[@nedanother9382]

good lord unless you're in the 3 square miles of this country that doesn't have black bears - that is a horrible plan and one of only two ways to get actually eaten by a black bear. never ever have a sweet smell in your tent. That bear will take your pack and everything in it and if it has to go through your tent or you to get it, it will. You'd be NO worse off if you hung a hunk of meat over your tent. You have only been really lucky because that bear can smell mint from 7 miles away. I'm sorry for the rant but if there were ever advice to follow, this is the best you'll ever get. It's step one of backpacking. no toiletries, no pills, no scented chap stick, no sweet medicine in your tent, no lotion. zippo. and my personal advice - get a bear can for all of that - hanging sucks. cheers, please don't get eaten.

[@HostileTakeover2]

@@nedanother9382 Wow, you really jumped hard straight to the assumption that everyone heads only into the areas you're familiar with, with only the intent you're thinking of. Anyone doing any research into their destination, which is a given, will find out what the predators like & don't like and plan accordingly. No I haven't been extremely lucky, it's been well planned each time; I'm just rarely in bear country so don't have to worry about it... hell, half the time I'm not even in USA. That's the reason I flip-flop on which bag I use - know what's appropriate and what's not, and where I am most of the time, it's completely appropriate. Those times it's not, or I'm expecting heavier rain or deep water crossings, I use the contractor bag. Next time tone down the rant and make fewer egregious assumptions.

[@fluffbigrollingmarshmallow]

@@HostileTakeover2 To be honest, I think you should have mentioned in your original comment when/where you do use a mint scented trash bag, and when you don't. Not to avoid getting jumped on, but to avoid giving the impression to someone less knowledgeable about hiking that a mint scented trash bag would be a good idea just any old place. I know it isn't your responsibility to worry about idiots out there that don't do their own research. But we all know there are most definitely idiots out there. I live in the White Mountains, and the amount of idiots that can't seem to grasp how the weather can change in a nanosecond is proven almost every week with SAR deployments to save said idiots. Many times they aren't saved. I think being clear about the times/reasons you use a certain item - especially if that item could be deadly in many scenarios - is just prudent. JMHO Safe and happy hiking!

[@asamcqueen3513]

I'm definitely still on team hydration bladder... for the most part, largely because I want the extra volume of water. Though if I know there will be a water source nearby I've got a grayl bottle that might start to change that. Also definitely still on team pocket knife, mine's proven too useful for too many little tasks (like fixing a tent pole so it could actually be used), but that's my experience so mileage varies.

[@HostileTakeover2]

Ditto. Unless I'm hiking near a known source of water the majority of time, like a river, I'll be carrying quite a bit of water in the bladder and use a pump style filter to fill it. Of course, I'm usually with a small group and we find it easier/quicker to use one pump for all of us than each have a squeeze or gravity setup. And if I'm lone, I might do a gravity and just keep a spare lightweight bag for the dirty water, but usually just stick with the small pump. And you'll never find me without a knife of some kind, usually a multitool.

[@4Arcana]

Me too. Pumped out of puddles too many times to not take a traditional pump and bladder. Inline filters only work where there are creeks or lakes, and that is not where I usually backpack. More often I pump from two inch deep algae filled potholes. I want 3 liters on the back when I start.

[@WorldBrilliant]

I guess in the lower 48, black bears are fewer and hunted with dogs. I'm not sure what makes them more skittish of humans, but in Alaska, my fellow guide was mauled by a black bear, it tib/fib'd his leg. He survived by stabbing it with his knife. A high school kid running a relay in our town was eaten by a black bear, they found his shoes. A black bear tried to crash through my porch door to attack me while I was sitting on my couch, I was charged and stalked by a black bear on a hiking trail. I've seen black bears behave just as erratically as brown or grizzly. I've learned the hard way to not underestimate black bears. If not carrying spray or a knife, maybe have a tent stake handy in case you need to fight for your life. Unlikely? Sure, but with bears of any color, anything is possible. And if they DO decide to attack...your odds of survival without anything to defend yourself are incredibly low. Maybe I just have bear PTSD lol

[@michael83479]

Honestly bear spray sounds 1000 times better than a knife in those scenarios

[@WorldBrilliant]

@michaelnewton8347 It can be, but also depends on weather conditions, wind, practice, etc. And assumes that you have sufficient reaction time to use it. All of my aggressive bear encounters, I did not have time to deploy my bear spray. So I think it's good to have a backup. In case you do get attacked, some way to "tell" the bear you're more trouble than you're worth. It could save your life.

[@fluffbigrollingmarshmallow]

Holy crap!

[@lukepaulson3428]

Imagine if a KZbin channel said “lose 10 pounds and carry whatever you want”. That would be a controversial statement.

[@jsvalina3503]

I've been watching a bunch of ultralight backpacking videos and have been thinking that exact thing.... Lol 😂

[@nycrae]

I had a weird moment with a coy-wolf when I scared off it's dinner... a sensitive moment with a mom deer I startled in the rain... and several odd experiences with men. That bear spray is a must for a woman alone or with a puppy

[@d.i.m.eproductions6925]

It’s not going to do anything for you against a moose or brown bear

[@josephsweeney4219]

I'm with you on just about all of these. I do bring a knife -spyderco ladybug - but it's tiny and weighs next to nothing. I also carry a small pair of scissors. I no longer bring rain pants - I find a rain kilt lighter and more comfortable.

[@blarfroer8066]

I wear water-repellant zip-off trousers which are made for cycling (which I do a lot). They keep me dry in a light rain and don't weigh me down if they actually get wet in heavy rain.

[@TokinWhiteKid]

Great list. I do prefer a water bladder though and have agreat system to refill it. My Camelbak tube has a removable mouthpiece with the quick disconnect fitting so I used that adapter that come with Sawyer squeezes and i can refill my bladder with a sawyer/smart water bottle using the camelbak drinking tube without having to remove the bladder from my pack.

[@justbeingmybestbob]

Always great tips. Thanks.

[@chiefJohnWright]

I bring along a small (

[@jenellsaphid]

Yep. Lots of big animals out there, not just bears.

[@Joab38]

Great video!!! Tent footprint: Though I generally cowboy camp with a tarp as backup, when I do use a tent I use the space blanket I keep in my emergency kit as a footprint. Not as durable but I've never had an issue, mostly due to the reasons of tent reliability in this video, I'm guessing. Water Bladders: Never liked a bladder with a drinking tube because it's hard to gauge how much water you have left. Def prefer hard bottles and the platypus unbottle (in the pack w/o a tube). Closed Cell Foam pads are the best!!! Lightweight and can double as a sit pad on breaks, especially since they are stored on the outside of your pack so easy to get to. Plus, you never have to worry about failure. Pairing with the multipurpose space blanket as a footprint, I've stayed plenty warm to below freezing w/o a concern in the world. Waterproof Boots: Mistake #1 = boots, waterproof or not. The only time you need boots is if you are expecting to carry really heavy loads (hunting, yes; backpacking, no). Trail runners are the better choice in most situations and waterproof is okay if the expected conditions are in play. Long Underwear: Don't disagree, but I still bring as part of my sleeping set, rarely wearing at any other time, but also good to have as part of a backup system. Knife: I don't go anywhere without my Leatherman Skeletool multitool. Just personal preference. Bear Spray: 100% spot on.

[@jeffreycarman2185]

This is exactly like me.

[@JonasViatte]

Thanks for the tips! Always good to think about what you don't need after every trip.

[@johnkerber9578]

I’m pretty happy with my setup already but love these kinds of posts! Anything cheap that will increase the quality of life is always worth checking out. Going to purchase a few of these. 😊

[@elizabethpatitsas565]

Maybe I'm just unlucky but I got a small tear in the bottom of my MSR Hubba Hubba about five years ago when camping in Algonquin Park. Bought and have carried a footprint for it ever since. The footprint has doubled as a tarp for rest stops in rainy conditions, and is pretty lightweight.

[@panhandlejake6200]

Always good to evaluate your gear needs in order to improve camp efficiency. Footprint: I elect to use one (3 oz polycryo) as it keeps the bottom of my tent cleaner - particularly in wet weather. I just go off of a JMT section hike with 36 hours of constant drizzle from Hillary - my footprint was filthy and I was able to pack it away separately. If I did not have it, that dirt would have spread across the tent body when I packed it away. If dry weather is guaranteed, then a footprint may not be necessary -- but I personally will still elect to use one. I do use long johns as backup sleeping insulation - in place of a cocoon, for example. With the exception of winter camping, I don't think I would use them outside of my tent. I have very light silk long johns which have increased my comfort level on unexpectedly cold summer nights high in the mountains. I stopped carrying a 'big' knife long ago - instead I use a much smaller Victorinox which has served all of my needs. I still elect to use water RESISTANT boots - I like the ankle protection from rocks, etc. They have stayed dry even in the long rain on the JMT - I did switch to water shoes for a few deep water crossings. I also carry waterproof socks to protect my feet in the event that the boots do soak through.

[@ecoheliguy]

As someone who has worked in the most remote locations in Northern Canada. We generally don’t take a rifle or bear spray inland. They same can’t be said about coastal, west coast grizzly and arctic/Hudson coast Polar bears we 100% percent have protection. Black bears are the least of our concern. We are always cautious for Polar, Cougar, and Wolverine. All three will not hesitate to vastly kill you, and two of the 3 will hunt you no different then they will hunt any other food. Knife: I use a single blade for batoning wood if making fires. But generally I have a leatherman skeletool which I primarily use for the pliers, and screwdriver. Only time I use the knife blade is to cut rope and cord. I agree that sharp scissors, or a razor blade pretty much covers 99% of what the knife blade would do when Backpacking/thru-hiking. But the knife comes into its own when doing more of an expedition,canoeing, coastal kayak.

[@CoryDAnimates]

I would definitely suggest use the same evaluation process for everyone to minimize their packs instead of just dropping everything. Take stock and every year account did you use it or consider using it? After a trip did you regret removing it? Always be prepared, but weight matters and studying what to expect is also part of the experience.

[@ringhof]

Footprints are mainly for wet conditions with lots of rain. It gives the tent an extra layer against water leakage. When you hike a week way up in the northern polar region - a footprint is essential to be able to sleep in a dry tent.

[@tc2156]

I don’t bring any of these during the summer except the nyloflume pack liner. I find it plenty big enough for my quilt, clothes, and electronics. My bear canister is also inside the liner just because I like to place it on top of my quilt and stuff my puffy jacket around it. But I’m usually carrying 22lbs for a 3 day trip. I’ve used the same liner all summer. It’s held up really well and I’m not exactly gentle with it. I do wear/bring base layers in the winter since I live in cold Colorado.

[@Obi-Wan_Pierogi]

We don't have bears in my region of Poland. I keep pepper spray in hip pouch for random drunks or boars. I've never needed it, but I like having peace of mind. I use a drinking tube from a bladder. My water bottles have a sports cap. I just widened the hole of the cap and the tube is now pressure fit in place in the cap. I carry an extra sun shirt as an extra layer when sleeping.

[@Ericidryfly]

Mike your doing good, Working through the pain.

[@RobertFallon]

I agree with you about the 3-4” stand-alone knife. I find a small 2” blade as part of a mini multi-tool will do all necessary tasks just as well.

[@peacefulplaces3634]

I bring a small knife for common camp tasks, and I only bring a larger one if I'm going to be fishing.

[@neobello6736]

@@peacefulplaces3634 Yep, smallest Victorinox/Wenger (mainly use the scissors and toothpick) and if fishing a cheap lightweight Mora.

[@dddhhh2612]

Great video. My thoughts: For the tent footprint, I've found it useful when setting up a tent on already wet ground. Tent bottoms are water resistant, not waterproof. Otherwise the interior of the tent will get wet. (I have pretty high-end equipment) For water bladders, when I hike in a group and manage water for more people than just myself, a gallon-sized bladder is an easy way to manage water for multiple people in a campsite. For half-inch closed cell foam pads, I bring a 2-foot section for multiple uses, mostly in cold weather situations: a nice seat cushion (better than a wet log), an extra layer of insulation under (or over) my inflatable sleeping pad, and occasionally just use as a clean surface to lay out a bunch of small items I want to keep out of the dirt. For a knife . . . never use it except for food prep. For bear spray . . . not necessary on the east coast. Bears want to get away from me. Though the adrenaline rush when running into a full size black bear is pretty intense.

[@rotaman8555]

I see your points, but for me personally: I wear waterproof boots, because I live in Alaska the trails are always wet; I carry a closed foam pad in Alaska because I need to protect my inflatable pad from sharp rocks and it adds Rvalue without much weight; I carry bear spray always, again because Alaska; I always carry a picket knife. Always. My two bits. Good video!

[@thorstenreitz7302]

Hm, I've had four punctures and two damaged valves on self-inflating pads. The damaged valves were particularily annoying, because they couldn't be repaired with a patch kit at all. So in very cold conditions, I will also potentially bring my ancient ridge rest as additional insulation & fall-back. In winter conditions, I also always have a set of long warm underwear with me, as an emergency base layer. I have actually needed it once and was very happ to have had it.

[@blarfroer8066]

I like having a closed cell foam mat to sit on it while it's folded. More comfortable than sitting on the ground. I've read reviews about my sleeping pad (Exped Synmat 7) being a little sensitive to spiky objects, so I bought a used German military groundsheet to put underneath. Packs up small, weighs little and costs less than 10 bucks second-hand.

[@xianthrops]

I've been returning to backpacking after many years and two kids. Your videos are fantastic, thank you! What kind of gear do you use when backpacking with your family? What tent arrangement and how do you distribute gear?

[@jjaylad]

I've carried a Victorianox "Camper" knife in the wilderness for over 60 years. It has 2 knives, sewing awl/punch, corkscrew, Phillips and blade screwdrivers, wire stripper, can opener, toothpick, tweezers and very functional saw. All high quality. The tool is small, lightweight, and indestructible. People who don't bring such a tool are always asking to borrow mine. One guy who borrowed it broke the tip of the blade trying to pry something the claw of a hammer would have broken on. I sent it in, and Victorianox returned it with that blade replaced. They sharpened the other blade and even replaced the side panel where their logo was scratched. There was no charge. It had served over 35 years by then. It is always on me (in luggage for airline travel) and is used multiple times daily both at home and in the wilderness. INDISPENSABLE.

[@brucecarroll4041]

As always, GREAT STUFF!

[@joostdemoor138]

The thing that will keep me using boots (waterproof or not) is ankle protection. I hike in areas where I'm often days away from any help. Twisting an ankle the becomes a major risk imo, especially when carrying a heavy pack. Secondly, there is the issue of durability and consuming less. I can use my boots for many years on end on the trails. When soles wear out, I can replace them. By contrast, I can easily imagine shredding a pair of trail runners in no time on hard trails or off trail.

[@klang180]

I've been using trial runners for years and never once twisted my ankle and so I do wonder if this is a strength thing. Your point about durability is a fair point although depending on the materials and methods of manufacture one pair of good boots might be worse environmentally speaking than many trial shoes.

[@fluffbigrollingmarshmallow]

I found that when I switched to trail runners, I have not twisted my ankle even once, even when hiking late at night, after a full day of hiking in mud, and wicked tired. But with boots? It happened all the time - not bad ones - but little twists that you could walk off in 30 minutes to an hour. I believe the reason, for me, is that trail runners are so much lighter, and you have much better foot placement. Almost every single time I hiked with boots, any ankle twist was due to poor foot placement. I also believe that trail runners help strengthen your ankle, and gives you much better flexibility. Unless you have those boots laced up like figure skates or hockey skates, or are clamped into ski boots, any protection you think they provide is actually false. No one laces hiking boots like that, so any sever twist or break will be similar regardless of boots or trail runners. With boots, I used to clip my ankles with the other foot a lot - doesn't happen at all with trail runners. I think the only protection my boots provided was from my own clipping of my ankles - stopped using boots and the problem was solved. 😂

[@wolf1066]

@@fluffbigrollingmarshmallow I agree with every observation you've made, there. All the problems I had that I needed boots to "solve" were caused by the boots themselves. I got to the point one time that I felt so unstable - we were rock-hopping along a river... large curved smooth boulders... and trying to walk on them in my boots was like trying to balance a plate on a bowling ball - that I took my boots and socks off and went barefoot. Instantly I had no more problems, my feet didn't slip, my ankles didn't try to buckle sideways and I felt several orders of magnitude safer. Next time we went out I wore running shoes - until I could afford to buy purpose-made trail runners. Had no problems since going away from inflexible boots.

[@fluffbigrollingmarshmallow]

@@wolf1066 Hmmm, I never thought about the inflexibility of the soles of boots - but now that you mention it, I'm pretty sure that is part of the reason for my feeling so much less prone to ankle twists in trail runners. There is limited tactile response from the ground/rock/whatever through the sole of a boot, whereas trail runners have a great deal of tactile response. I think that tactile response has a great deal to do with a person's sense of balance and how you correct imperfect foot placement almost immediately with your body, location of foot pressure, etc. I just know I seriously doubt I'll ever go back to boots. 🙂

[@wolf1066]

@@fluffbigrollingmarshmallow Tactile response is crucial, also the ability to conform to the surface. The moment I took my boots off and my bare feet could curve to match the surface of the rocks, I was stable. I had far better contact with the surface and could feel what surface I was on. Couldn't go back to flat planks after that, needed footwear that would curve to fit the terrain and give me a better idea of the angle etc.

[@badrelabangmohd8833]

Best advice / tips and experience, summarized in clear presentation. Thank you sir. From Malaysia with ❤.

[@anonymes2884]

Totally agree on the tent footprint, 35+ years of camping and hiking and i've never used one nor had a floor rip (but it's light/compact enough that no one loses much using one if they prefer IMO). But I don't go _anywhere_ without a pocket knife (swiss army usually), just too useful for too many situations (from opening food packets to gear/clothing repairs to passing time whittling at camp). For the weight/space I suspect it'll be one of the last things I ever go without (just below dry socks :).

[@TheJohnreeves]

Maybe others have said it, but I think some of this is just situational. The non-inflatable pads and footprint I think are particularly suited to places where you have a lot of thorns. Desert areas. Goat heads I hear may be all over in some places, and they'll go right into your pad. But if you're not in an area that has them (most of the Pacific Northwest), yeah the ground is usually quite soft and won't get through the tent and pad.

[@BohdanWynnyckyj]

Footprint is much more useful in the heavy rain or storm for your gear not to get wet through the floor. Another option is to dig a canal around the tent for the water to go somewere.

[@MrKuken911]

Great video, as always! I do carry a tyvek footprint for extra protection and in case of heavy rain, or just to lay down on it during the day if needed. I dropped the knife a long time ago. To me this is by far the most useless item, except for the super tiny Swiss army knife that also has scissors, tweezers and tooth pick. Super handy. No waterproof shoes of course. Learnt that during severe weather conditions. I was soaking wet and the next day the shoes were still wet. Except in winter of course. And no water blader. Too much hassle.

[@d.i.m.eproductions6925]

It’s useless until you’re in a survival situation, unless you bought one of those cheap knives then it’s just useless no matter what

[@d.i.m.eproductions6925]

Also, if your boots got wet then that’s on you. Should have done more research into layering, spent more money on a higher quality boot such as Merrell or Lowe, bought OTTE leg gaiters and used merino wool socks.

[@Eunegin23]

I am usually hiking in the mountains, mainly the Alps. I stopped packing / using boots and switched for most of my hikes (depends on the terrain of course) to approach shoes and other low cut shoes. Lighter and for me the better fit. Never the water-proof version. Having said that, I wouldn't do that if I were not well trained and experienced to avoid problems or injuries. Always in the Rucksack: extra socks and an extra merino T-Shirt.

[@JeffCorcelius]

Everytime I've gone camping I've needed a knife. Now, a lot of the items on you're list I agree with. I also bring 550 Cord all the time. I know I don't need it but it's that boy scout in me that won't let me leave it at home.

[@d.i.m.eproductions6925]

Fun fact, you don’t need it until one day you do

[@karenschocher1790]

This old hiker thanks you, you're a wealth of knowledge, enjoy your channel

[@tgilbs]

I used to bring so much clothing!!! While it is nice to change into clean clothes each day, it's just not worth the weight. I just have a set for day and for night and try to keep my layering pieces pretty minimal (but effective.) I also stopped bringing a footprint for my tents, although sometimes it makes me nervous because I am often camping on granite and have definitely been in a situation where there was at least an inch of water under my tent and I was very thankful the tent was still waterproof! I still bring a whistle, but it's probably unnecessary. It came in handy once, when a slower hiker in my group got turned around and was able to be located because she had a whistle (we had not heard her shouting). I have a small multi-tool that I will still bring, but it is mostly handy because I use it to open my bear can (which I am required to bring in most places where I backpack!) Great video and I agree on all your points. I slowly converted to trail runners -- they do dry out very quickly on a warm day! And I love the bottle/tube adapter -- I can finally give up my bladder which is super annoying to refill!

[@jameshatley9390]

My old tent has a well patched floor, and I use a mylar sheet underneath. I like putting the tent away dry. Heavy rain often drains under the mylar sheet, too. Been on the trail for more than 40 years and I've never taken a knife.

[@michael83479]

Yea people talk about it in a survival circumstance that it'll save your life. But realistically I don't think it'll change much. I'm not bushcrafting or whatever. I hike on trails and stay either a designated campsites or close enough that I'll be fine. Worst case I hole up for a day and wait for others or just use my satellite messenger.

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

I agree. But convincing people of this is nearly impossible.

[@jameshatley9390]

I wouldn't try. I always had a big medical kit with some scissors for tape, etc., and stuff for fixing toenails. We would always try for five or six nights out with a group. New hikers got the light packs. So much of the weight was dehydrated food.@@MyLifeOutdoors

[@frstesiste7670]

I've started hiking in the boy scouts and used a foam pad for around the first 10 years. They are great when you're young and can sleep on one, extremely durable, never leak and are super convenient as you can use them during the day too to sit on. If I still could sleep on a foam pad that would be my first choice. Used a tent without a footprint for even longer. Didn't even know that was a thing (in the eighties) and not using one never caused problems. Since then I've tried one and found one advantage. With wet ground it keeps the tent drier and less dirty, but I dont need the manufacturer's one. The thinnest and lightest drop cloth will do the same trick at a fraction of the cost. I've never owned or carried bear spray and I've hiked both the PCT and the AT. Cant see any reason to carry it in black bear country. I've met around ten black bears and never been able to get the camera ready fast enough for a picture. In grizzly country I'd of course get carry it. I always carry a knife, usually a tiny one. How do you split a bagel without a knife? Scissor just won't do and I've never carried scissor on a hike. The knife will cut Leukotape too and in an emergency help me start a fire. Waterproof boots. Don't use them anymore. Switched to waterproof sneakers in the mid-eighties. Hard to find for a while, but easy now. I'd never use them (in snow or really wet conditions) without gaiters though - just don't make sense to not protect the top from easy access for the water/snow. That said I used both waterproof and non-waterproof shoes on my thruhikes depending on the expected conditions. There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of shoes. There are even conditions that call for boots - but I don't do mountaineering stuff anymore.

[@jeffreycarman2185]

Gosh I’d love to get out on the trail more frequently. Also, any time I go out in snow, I _always_ wear gaiters. The times when I didn’t wear gaiters I very much regretted it. Thanks for the video.

[@richardscott7778]

I just slapped a water filter in line to my water bladder and it worked great. The filter came with an extra tube and just used that. Fill the bladder as normal and go. It's not any harder to sip water through. No extra adapter needed. Also had a inflatable sleeping mat get SEVERAL holes in it, after only a few uses. How you've only gotten ONE in years is a miracle.

[@tanvach]

I love my foam sleeping pad! I actually don’t like chairs (and i tried both Helinox zero and REI Air) but prefer to sit cross legged on the CCF pad. Add R value and also I can nap any where instantly.

[@JonSchlueter]

Footprint is useful when camping on clay or muck that you see in the swamp areas, but not so much as in sand or dirt. If you end up in a downpour on clay/swamp muck it can require you to actually scrub to get rid of the clay from your tent.

[@the_joe_reynolds_foundation]

Do you have a video on basic knots you like to use? And/or do you even use them?

[@chrisnave1769]

I can understand all of your points and your arguments are extremely valid. I hiked a lot with boyscouts and went to Philmont. I rarely used a knife and when we saw a bear at Philmont it just walked away (obviously not all bears will). I loved hearing abt your waterproof boots view: if it keeps it out, it’ll keep it in

[@d.i.m.eproductions6925]

Or use leg gaiters smfh

[@charlescollier7217]

The environment in which we hike, what kind of hiking we do, how long we're going to be out there for - all of those shape what is and isn't necessary or expedient, so I find no fault with this list if it works for you. In my tropical rainforest, there's no way I'm going without at least a short machete. It's simply a necessity for my terrain. I'm with you on the water bladders though. Too hard to clean.

[@nathanielkatz6938]

On the closed cell foam issue. Some people including myself simply do not feel comfortable on air beds. Ccf mats are light, cheep and durable, they can be used day or night and can be cut down to save weight and space. CCF GANG FOR LIFE

[@jenellsaphid]

I always bring a knife or bear spray, or sometimes both, even on smallee day hikes. I'm female and often alone and these work as great deterrents for *anything* i might meet up with. I will also always bring the tent foot - I've only got one good tent and I plan on taking the best care of it I can. Love the shell over the clothes idea though.

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Unfortunately hiking as a solo male has less risks. I think your choice is wise.

[@Daruma_Studio]

Could this be a video not trying to sell me stuff?! Let's see!

[@daviddemmers130]

Nothing upselling!

[@JohnnyMcMillan]

I forget his name but that ginger hiker/backpacker, everyone of his videos its just a list to his amazon links

[@Daruma_Studio]

@@JohnnyMcMillan Isnt that this guy?

[@Wilma5532]

​@@Daruma_Studioi think he meant Zach Fowler?

[@billyrandell]

I've gone back and forth on CCF pads. Other than my first very cheap one, I agree that all of my inflatables have been more comfy, lighter, and better R value than my Nemo Switchback. But I work as a paraprofessional for a very poor school district, so money is always extremely tight. I'm usually in the neighborhood of 200 pounds, sleep on my side and toss and turn a lot. Combined with the fact that I dont own a tent and the only thing between my sleeping pad and the ground is a sheet of polycro, the inflatables just get torn up too quick. Im okay at patching, but that reaches its limits. I ended up with the switchback when I was hiking the Colorado Trail and my pad stopped keeping air overnight even after I patched every leak. It's pretty much bomb proof and has never given me problems. I cut it down to just cover my torso and hips so the weight disadvantage isn't as noticeable. I also bought a super cheap old foam pad from our used gear store that gives a similar level of support and have switched from sleeping on a mattress to that pad when I'm at home. I got used to it pretty quickly, and now my switchback almost feels more comfortable than matresses and pads because its what my body is used to.

[@pathfinder7614]

I'm with you on everything except the knife. I have several knives depending on where I am at, what I'm doing, how long, ect. Most people get knives way bigger than they need. Personally, if I need a "serious" outdoors knife, I love my BK18 by kabar. Little 4 inch blade. But most of the time a simply vitorinox Swiss army knife will suffice. I prefer the ranger grip 78. Very basic. The knife is one of those tools that you don't need until you do. I can definitely understand not needing a fixed blade, even something as small as the BK18 harpoon. But a good folder I'm a pocket takes up no space, almost no weight, and if you need it, you got it. That's just my comfort level though. Great video!

[@johnbaker9872]

Re: long underwear- I’ve swapped over to bringing arm sleeves (from biking) which make adding /removing a little extra warmth very easy. Also, they allow a bit more pit ventilation than a long sleeve shirt does.

[@dereinzigwahreRichi]

About the closed cell foam pad: it weighs next to nothing, I use it for additional R-value in colder temps and sometimes in the summer as it's a nice package for sitting on, it can be a relatively clean surface to spread and sort your gear, e.g. when cooking at camp (REAL cooking, not pouring hot water in bags!) which I like to do, and if I dont need it for anything else our doggy sleeps on it. :⁠-⁠) Also I now got an air matress of the cheaper kind, just to test if I like it. I've been using my Thermarest nearly all my life, had only one puncture and I must say I don't trust these non-self-inflating air matresses fully, not with my night's sleep. If this thing has a hole you're lying on the ground in no time. If I'm going on a trip with the, the closed cell foam pad will also be there, in case it gets cold and as a backup. For this reason I'm also looking for two layered air matresses, Sea to Summit comes to mind.

[@Turtle-Hiker]

What is the name of the water bottle adapter you use. I have always used a bladder but for the same reasons you mentioned I am changing to bottles but have difficulty getting them in and out of the pockets on my pack.

[@21Swayzee]

I don't get the tent footprint either, I've never had a problem with my metorlite..or marmot.. good point!

[@paigekoenig9323]

Knife always goes with me. Feathersticks, batoning wet firewood, cutting paracord, prepping food. Clip on the belt, throw it in your pocket. I always have a mini pocketknife in my first aid kit.

[@ILoveJeeps]

It's better to have a knife and not need it, than to need a knife and not have it.

[@uniktbrukernavn]

0:25 Make a custom footprint only for the vestibule. Buy a cheap heavy duty tarp at a hardware store and cut it to size (the kinda tarp they use to cover firewood etc). It'll keep your gear dry if you have to set up tent on wet ground. Make sure that it doesn't protrude outside the tent because it'll collect water - I found that out the hard way. I've had mine for 10 years. Just make sure that whenever you enter/exit the tent you kneel down on some gloves because you're not gonna see the rock underneath the tarp - you'll feel it though.

[@DrRobotica778]

Replace the footprint for a piece of tyvek house wrap. Cut it to the shape of the tent/footprint and tough adhesive tape to make pole/stake loops. Keep the protection/dryness you want of a footprint but at a lighter weight.

[@Swimdeep]

HYOH. The choices you’ve made aren’t mine but you have arrived at these decisions through experience. As a solo female, I would never hike without my neck knife and bear spray. People are animals too.🌿

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Unfortunately hiking as a solo man has less risks. I think your choices are wise.

[@kevinstarski1598]

hyoh ???

[@nedanother9382]

Man you need to come west and experience our backpackers....best people in the world. Love my Eastern Sierra towns and people. Hitch hiking is still a regular thing. It must be different when you have close towns that aren't kinda built around the hiking and biking communities. I'd ask that you reconsider your spray. Totally not needed for bears and you have the neck knife for any other problems. If you still don't feel safe take a much smaller spray designed for people. I love my female backpackers whether solo or in groups. As long as your out there. Such a show of strength and confidence. Just beautiful. Cheers

[@shantelwoods9064]

Absolutely I cary wasp and hornet spray works well for coyotes.

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

@kevinstarski1958 HYOH = Hike Your Own Hike

[@Conan3145]

Food for thought! I take one Nalgene 22oz All Terrain Bottle because of 20 years use, a Swiss Army Knife Tourist for just in case. Waterproof boots because they are worn in and won’t wear out. No pack liner, water bladder, foam or long underwear. No griz in Australia so no bear spray - and it aggravates the local dropbears, best just to run 😀

[@RyanSchell]

I quit taking a pocket knife for a small multi-tool like the Leatherman squirt. But I do take a Morakniv knife that I constantly debate on taking, but I usually use it to baton wood to get to the dry center. That alone keeps me bringing it. I also was glad on the last trip when there was an odd guy walking in the area we deemed "Homeless Bob Ross", that had suspicious behavior.

[@rickson50]

Regarding the tent, I make my own footprints. I buy window liners. The kind used to insulate windows and I forget the name but those metal holes used in tarps. Costs like 6 dollars to make one. Lighter than a factory footprint Also my tent has holes on the bottom(I was not using the homemade footprint when I got them) my tent floor off in zion and fell into a pointy bush

[@Belgarathe]

I would say a nice study knife that can be used as a hammer is a must. Mostly for the emergency of other gears failing or unexpected events such that you are stuck out much longer than expected. That along with flint would be my safeties

[@ianbooth4255]

I wouldn't carry a foam pad to use with an inflatable sleeping mat but I do carry a reflective sleeping mat. It weighs next to nothing but makes a big difference in terms of heat loss and adds a layer of protection for the sleeping mat.

[@chrismoore600]

I'm with you on the trash bag and the drinking tube is a game changer for me.

[@timothyexner]

As for the bear spray, it would also potentially deter a mountain lion, which I'm more likely to encounter than a bear. I also carry a small air horn which is what I would try first if I had time.

[@theredfryingpan6460]

Interesting points, it doesn't all apply to me since my situation is different being in an Infantry company rotating to Poland. I've been researching what equipment would make it easier but helpful insight none the less.

[@d.i.m.eproductions6925]

Go with your field manual or 1989 army ranger handbook

[@CosmicTaco-yi3um]

Good vid. I think that the "5 C's" of survival as put forth by Dave Canterbury are important and could be life-saving.

[@tlgrimmy]

It's funny...I'm pretty torn on bringing some sort of groundsheet with ultralight tents due to their fragility, but you're just adding weight back to the system, which seems a bit silly after paying hundreds more to save a few ounces😂. It's really just due to how expensive these tents are. I will probably try going without one someday, but a compromise I'm liking so far is to cut a piece of polycro to fit the base of my Xmid 2 pro (vestibule area not included) and use small squares of velcro to hold it on there at the corners. Only adds 1.9oz (velcro included) and I don't have to lay it out since it's attached. It's probably unnecessary, but makes me feel better on rocky ground or in stormy weather.

[@NilsNone]

I have a tiny swiss army pocketknive thats usually dangeling on my house and carkeys ... its tiny but gets most of the cuttingjobs done + it comes with pliers