Gear I Would NEVER BRING on a Long Hike!

[@jeriatrix4526]

55 years ago I did my first backpacking trip. My pack must have weighed 50 pounds. But that happened only once. I immediately began shedding weight until, even without benefit of today's lightweight gear, I was down to 30 for a three night four day trip. It's been an interesting gear journey from then to now. I can do the same trip now with just under 20 lbs. Including food and water. I don't take any of the trendy gear you've mentioned above and certainly not a pet. I also leave at home GPS, phone and all other electronic gadgets. A good map and map compass have always shown me the way and their batteries don't go dead. It's encouraging to see your concern for other travelers; quite a contrast from the usual attitude I see from the younger generations. Their ethic seems to be "if I can get away with it, I'll do it". Good video.

[@jonmnelson]

I love that you care about not bothering others with noise pollution. I'm seeing more and more people with external speakers, playing their music as they hike. So annoying.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

I wouldn't want someone doing the same thing to me. It takes respect to get respect! Hike On, Darwin

[@jonmnelson]

Darwin onthetrail Agreed! I just wish more people thought like we did.

[@rrebelone0423]

Jon Nelson agreed!

[@michaelb1761]

Totally, I first saw it (or rather heard it) on a popular local trail a few years ago, but last year I came across three people hiking in the Sierra and listening to their music through external speakers. When did this become OK? Maybe I'll be the A**hole in the future and start singing a song at the top of my lungs the next time this happens, and as I get next to them, say, Oh, I heard your music and thought this was ok.

[@indycharlie]

Maybe we should start a pan clanging movement . Whenever your at camp and some nutweed cranks up his radio for all to enjoy we start clanging pans . If one person confronts could get stupid , but if the whole camp clangs in ?!? Start a trend , pass the word . What you folks think ?!

[@davidscott3155]

A big thank you for hanging out with me and my two boys last night. They made me print the picture they took with you to show all their friends at school. Very cool of you. Good luck on your trip and thanks again.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

No Problem David, It was great meeting you guys! Thanks for the kind words & for getting your boys into such a great thing at such a young age! Hike On, Darwin

[@elvay6847]

Yea but if I bring my solar panel I can charge my drone at night under the light of my lantern while reading the Encyclopedia Britannica while rubbing deodorant all over my body while my dog drops monster deuces all over the campsite. Sounds like a great plan to get away from it all!

[@mklnelson77]

Elvay hahaha Yesss I ill make sure to do this while I hike the chilkoot trail from AK into Canada!

[@redneckzen]

Sooo ... you're not going to play your "instrument"? (You missed one) ;)

[@kodaexploring5176]

Dang it sounds like i've been camping ALL wrong lol

[@_Bryant.R]

You need to tie a tambourine to your dog's tail.

[@BlueWolfOO]

Omg almost deuced myself when I read this comment

[@hmarkison]

Thank you SO much for pointing out how rude it is to create noise/music/etc on the trail. To hike your own hike means allowing others to hike theirs and the primary sound I want is wind and birds. We don't talk enough about LNT to new hikers.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

LNT has Always been an important 1 for me! Respect everyone & everything on the trail! Hike On, Darwin

[@GnpHiker]

Just remember that if you are hiking in grizzly country "it's not a good idea to walk quietly". Your best piece of safety equipment is your voice. The bear ranger I talked to said the few times he was charged by a grizzly was when he got lazy and didn't talk to himself while hiking. In grizzly country it is rude to not make noise. The bear doesn't want to be surprised by you. It may be good LNT to be quiet on the Appalachian Trail or the PCT, but on the northern part of the CDT you should be talking or shouting.

[@hmarkison]

Shelly Dirstine - point taken.

[@walkerways8695]

And chipmunks. All that chittering, I used to think they were birds.

[@ZootyZoFo]

John Dunbar - What about having them carry you, like a Roman emperor through the streets of Pompeii? Do you think they would be up for that? I would love to mount a cushy chair on two poles and be carried down the AT with my umbrella in on hand and a mint julep in the other while wearing kaki British safari clothing and a monocle.

[@chickensfordays9149]

I hike to get away from all the noise pollution, I like not seeing drones. I love to unplug & enjoy seeing others do the same. Much respect for the respect of others 👍👍

[@the_once-and-future_king.]

I'd advocate for just a small drone if you want to photograph the landscape (or to allow SAR to locate you in case of emergency), but not for recreational use.

[@ReverendRusty]

I used to bring our dog on one-week hikes with us. Then one time after washing her pack when we got home, I showed it to her. She ran out of the room and hid. That was the last time I brought her on any more than a day hike.

[@whiggerhunter4268]

Smart 🐕.

[@A88mmck]

Cool story

[@JenkinsStevenD]

Your dog probably loves the hike but hates the pack. I used to have a steel frame thrift shop pack when I was in the boy scouts. I couldn't get more than a mile in it without having to take it off and readjust the hoodie I would use for padding. My guess is that it is the pack, not the hike.

[@miomine3527]

My dog loves the packs even swims with them,but his a cane corso /pitbull mix...

[@USMC6976]

My pitbull doesn't like the pack, but she wants to be the first one in the tent and last one out.

[@Oldsparkey]

I enjoy the woods for the woods and especially the quietness of it. If I want some noise pollution or distractions all I have to do is to stay home.

[@kauaijohn]

Amen, brother!

[@codyaevans]

I'd probably pay good money to see someone hiking with a house cat...

[@datruliverking]

Cody Evans ok here ya go.... instagram.com/henrythecoloradodog?igshid=irbkptwwu9gf

[@isaackarjala7916]

Yeah, let's kill everything smaller than a bread box....

[@jacobbouck4738]

I can almost guarantee my cat would probably love it but I'd never do it

[@foulair63]

House Cat Hat, the only way...

[@SchMasHed]

R.I.P. Richard Parker

[@nicholasvartanian2760]

Damn, was gonna bring my drum kit on my next hike :(

[@autonomous2010]

Bring some bagpipes. People Looooooooooove to hear bagpipes at midnight.

[@jameskeatts2677]

So glad you had a good day . The trails give and take but somehow we always come away with more than we started with . Peace and good days ahead

[@Chris-pw7ov]

The Bluetooth speaker drives me nuts. I've been seeing that a lot the last couple years. Even if I like your music,I don't want to hear it.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

NOISE POLLUTION! Hike On, Darwin

[@huycao9788]

Have these people never heard of headphones?

[@sindex]

Seriously! Like, they could afford a bluetooth speaker, but not headphones? Drives me up the wall.

[@Just_Mark]

This one really bugs me too. Thanks for mentioning it, Darwin. If it stops one idiot from blaring his music on the trail, it’s worth it!

[@Tonkerton87braham]

I mainly use my bluetooth speaker in bear country, it keeps bears aware of a humans existence

[@williamburton307]

Thank you! I loathe people being loud on the trail! I did not hike into the forest to hear your music/drone/mouth. I will return the respect. :)

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Yeah, I would love to get Awesome shots with my Drone out there, but I can't stand when people Annoy me on the trail, so I don't wanna be "That Guy"! Hike On, Darwin

[@sanecrazy12]

I don't think it's disrespectful to play music or play an instrument, we are all on our own journey.. Maybe someone lost a loved one that played an instrument and this is their way of healing.. Anyways, I think it's exceptionally rude for others to expect others to not enjoy their life because U don't like it!! Live and let live on this crazy journey called life!! Nobody owns the trail of life of another!! Nobody owns the path you walk except U.. Damn sure nobody owns the earth as it will be here when we're gone!! Once again, you don't know why a person may bring what they bring on a trail for their own heeling!! Just be happy you have a path to cross!!

[@matthewstorm5188]

I don’t think it is necessarily disrepectful to play music on the trail, either. But it should be done in such a way that it doesn’t disturb others. For one, you should NOT play music when you are spending lengths of time in proximity of other people unless you KNOW that those other people are okay with it. This means that it’s not a good idea to play music in campgrounds, trail shelters, or other areas where people are congregated (like along rivers, on top of peaks, etc). It’s also not a good idea to play music while hiking if someone is ahead of you or behind you and more or less matching your speed, as this is basically the same thing as hanging out where others hang out. If you are coming the opposite direction, this is less problematic since they will only potentially be disturbed by your music for a short time. But it would be more polite to stop until you are some distance away. And regardless of what you do, it is best to keep things down when playing music in the wilderness. Better yet, consider headphones/earbuds if listening to music on your phone. That way, you can dance to your heart’s content on a crowded mountaintop (and only have to worry about LOOKING silly).

[@3_up_moon]

I dont mean to be daft but what do you do to alert bears to your approach if not making loud noises? I agree with not flying drones out there for such a reason but some people say they just want the silence of nature and it made me wonder.

[@DarrinSK]

mouth? lol. i was previously commenting i shoudl not talk as a Reductio ad absurdum but apparently that is useless when confronted with someone who is just absurd.

[@bernardhny]

I love #2. Literally no weight and takes up no room in the pack! Solar powered. No need to waste headlight battery. Love it.

[@rodster6campingprepper]

I like to bring a couple of light sources as I often need light coming from different angles at night to see what I'm doing. If I only brought one light then I'd also bring spare batteries so if I'm bringing the batteries I may as well bring an extra flashlight with them in as it isn't going to take up much more space. Also nice to know that if one breaks I have a back up.

[@spicecrop]

"Hey is that plastic trumpet edible"? -No "Wanna bet"?!

[@MrPhins]

I laughed, thinking you were joking about a trumpet. I'm having trouble figuring out what mental process has to happen to make someone think a trumpet would be a good idea. Glad that person was going UL and didn't bring their first choice, a sousaphone.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Oh NO! This is no joke. A BLUE PLASTIC TRUMPET! Hike On, Darwin

[@michaelb1761]

Yeah, he used to carry a tuba, but he decided to go UL for a through hike.

[@mrouterrim]

You might want to call retreat if a bear shows up LOLLL

[@maj.d.sasterhikes9884]

This year, (2018) some girl brought a plastic trombone on the trail with her, and I also wondered what mental process makes a person think that would be a good idea?

[@502BluePilgrim]

i recentlyu have run into 1hiker laying a bagpipe! and another playing a fiddle while walking, while they were interesting and apparently talented; they were going down the trail away from me thank God.

[@davyhaynes6716]

Darwin, I wish everyone was as considerate as you on the trail.

[@SurvivalistMedia]

😂My deodorant works fine. But I now know why everyone else on the trail smells terrible.😂

[@patricksmith6776]

Wait, you're telling me you hike and you don't use the magic of crystals to remove the odor causing bacteria on your body? Impossible.

[@dizzy897]

You probably smell but you don’t realize it

[@dont375]

Humans are fucking weird bro🤦🏻‍♀️ they’re so scared of the smell that they’re body naturally produces so they cover it up. For what? Leave it be.

[@williamkoeppen2102]

It’s also a smellable, though, and can stay on while you sleep, which is another reason not to bring it. Philmont Scout Ranch has even banned it from their trails (not joking). Of course I haven’t ever heard of someone getting mauled because they wore deodorant, but that’s what the BSA seems to believe.

[@rumidude]

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for emphasizing LNT. With the increasing number of people hiking nowadays, it is imperative that LNT principles be followed. Otherwise the great experience we have in the outdoors will be diminished and eventually destroyed for those who come after us. And again, thank you.

[@JoshuaGuptill]

while not specificly releated I really wish this was better observed on rivers. When i kayak i feel more like a garbage collector picking up far more than should ever be on any trail or river.

[@Arthur-Silva]

Drones are banned in most trails and it's actually illegal to fly drones in all National Parks.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Yep Yep! Hike On, Darwin

[@standincub]

Dixie addressed that in beginning of her live Q&A in Oregon Kevin, she said she is minding the rules on where flying is allowed. :)

[@romans883]

Art Silva Land of freedom ROFL !

[@tanner03able]

Good to hear, that would annoy the heck out of me if I had to listen to one of those fly around.

[@joshbaker2157]

Roman, they designate different lands for different things and have different allowances and different restrictions for various reasons.... Other wise it could be a free for all every where... And they consider natural resources and beauties of each... Some National Forests or sections of you can dirt bike or have big fires if you like, others easy camping, or RVing' others you can only visit by foot for the most part... And the National Parks have they're own rules,,, that way everybody can go out and enjoy what they like,,, If you want to have a peaceful camping trip with your wife in a very natural setting where there is less of a chance of mechanical noise and fires because somebody is flying lipo batteries around...... Or if you want to go somewhere to fly your drone you can, you just have to go somewhere else and if you are further away,,, that's just the luck of the knot in the wood... It is probably legal to fly drones in most National FORESTS,,, and there is a lot of National Forests in the SmokY National PARK region.

[@ruthanncutler551]

Darwin and Snuggles, I am finding great value in the information you are providing. Thank you. My plan for next year is the PCT, but it's been over thirty years since I have hike a long trail or rode my bike and got absorbed by nature. I am taking this year to get prepared for a thru hike. If I don't see you both on the trail, your information and spirit will be. Thank you.

[@illbluntz793]

My guilty weight burden is a can of Spam (removed from can in zip loc) and 11 oz. of mayonnaise. Solar panels and guitars are not calorie dense foods.

[@Loathomar]

I have run the numbers on solar panels, and they can be reasonable vs batteries if you have two things, sun and a long distance between towns. I believe the numbers worked out to be that with good sun, the weight of the solar panel make it better then batteries after 4 or 5 days. Most thru hikes average 3 to 4 days between towns, so it is likely not worth it, but there are cases. Also, they are getting better and better, so it is something to keep an eye out for in the next few years, where solar panel will give you more power per oz then batteries in 3 days (with good sun). And on dogs on the trail, while taking a dog on one of the triple crown seems insane, some dogs LOVE being on trail. My last dog loved it and I would feel mean not taking him with for a 3 or 4 day trip. He was a boarder collie and had boundless energy, he was doing 10+ mile days with a pack when he was twelve.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Excellent Thoughts Loathomar! Hike On, Darwin

[@USMC6976]

Border collies can run all day. I doubt if a person could out walk one or any other working dog. My sister-in-law has an Austrailian Shepherd and she goes on long horse back riding trips. The dog never seems to be tired. A Kane Korso may not like the walk but that Malinois will love it. It just depends on the dog. I was thinking similar thoughts about the solar panel. You made some good points to keep in mind when evaluating gear.

[@nicktesta8291]

"Before I start giving my opinions on drones, let me tell you I am a big fan of drones." :D Love the video!

[@jamessieker1712]

That you don't want to annoy others. Is so commendable and rare these days days. Bless you for your considerate soul.

[@featherinthewind6511]

Your mother raised you right. It amazes me how many inconsiderate people there are in the world. I can have a lot of fun without annoying other people.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

I'd give the credit more to my Grandmother.... She Rocked! Hike On, Darwin

[@levitatingoctahedron922]

if there are other people around to annoy you need to find better places to hike.

[@andrewneilson227]

Really glad you mentioned pets and music/instruments. The number of people who can't see how this would annoy the hell out of other hikers is staggering.

[@jonathangriffin4409]

Antiperspirant absolutely works for me. Even if it takes the stench of others from 11 down to 9, I'd really appreciate them using it too

[@murphragous]

Nothing to do with actual odor, my pits get chafed, so leaving my anti-perspirant at home is like leaving my shoes - not gonna happen!

[@autonomous2010]

Baby powder helps preventing chaffing from moisture and is cheaper.

[@elrey8876]

I use antibacterial deodorant and it works long-term no problems. The main issue is keeping my feet clean and non-stinky when I have limited pairs of socks and they're in the shoes for so long.

[@DBPCINC]

How about bringing a little bit of gold bond?

[@USMC6976]

Have you tried using an anti-chafe balm like Body Glide?

[@doloresreynolds8145]

El Rey The creator, Darwin, recommends liner socks to help solve sweaty feet and blister problems

[@icebearhikes]

Can we add "voice" to the instrument list? I once had to camp beside a family who sang at the top of their lungs until 11pm (when another hiker kindly asked them to SHUT UP so we could all sleep). Having them ten feet away from me had me close to insanity.

[@brandonfoley7519]

Stories like this make me question my decision to hike the trail next year

[@chasentrail5775]

Hey Darwin.... how about a vid on all that "Leave No Trace" should entail? As you referenced, it's Sooo much more than just packing out your trash. -Chase'n Trail

[@bobtakemura3434]

No blasting music out of your phone or mp3 player speakers either.

[@sashayaway1886]

Totally agree with you about drones. Thanks for making such eloquent and valuable points (as always!).

[@blairlohnes8103]

THANK YOU!!! I was once out in the back country and a drone flying over killed my entire buzz.

[@Nocturnalzyx]

Currently, doing my AT thruhike. Just a quick note about sun exposure. I was given advice about not being hats, sunscreen, sunglasses or solar panels cuz green tunnel, green tunnel, green tunnel. Except, I started my in early February and we had much more sun exposure than anyone would’ve thought based on our advice. We were told we’d be paler than before we’d started. I’m very glad I didn’t listen, we got sunburnt at least TWICE. There is no to little green tunnel over most of the trail (going NOBO at least) until mid April. Hike your own hike but I’d recommend overprep versus underprep.

[@dirdy-dollarz]

Darwin you're always spot on. However, my dog goes everywhere, work, travel, backpacking, hunting, fishing... She wouldn't have it any other way. We suffer in misery and joy together. Yep, I'm that guy.

[@mtadams2009]

So am I. My dog loves backpacking and sleeping next to me at night in the woods.

[@annestrasko7581]

Not to mention, other hikers/campers might not want to have your dog around either. Quiet, friendly dogs are usually fine, but people need to keep their loud and/or aggressive dogs at home. I was camping with a friend once and the people next to us had two dogs that kept growling really aggressively through the whole entire night. I had to pee, but was too afraid to leave my tent until the morning. At one point the dogs went into attack mode during the night, too. That was the worst sleep I've ever had while camping.

[@tomweald3824]

Great advice thanks Darwin, agree on all points. In particular, dog’s on trail. A day hike is no problem but weeks or even months on trail borders on cruelty. Thanks for another great video.

[@whiskeyncash1487]

Tom Weald depends on the dog

[@mtadams2009]

I have done the Long Trail with mg dog and she loves it. I met people on the AT with dogs and they seemed very happy and fit. I train with my dog, feed her high fat and protein food. When we get off the trail I can tell she misses it. My dog still gets at least 12 hours at night of sleep and we stop for long lunches often and she sleeps for an hour of two. I hike her hike not mine. It is harder for me since it means carrying a lot of her food, sleep system etc.

[@RenM908]

I’ve never done a long hike with my dog. Only a day hike that was less than 6 miles round trip, because I didn’t want to chance over tiring him or if something happened having to trek back with a 30lb dog. However, my Aussie always seems roaring and ready to go even when we’re done 😂.

[@chappy48]

Darwin: I don't want a very expensive ($830) item to get possibly ruined on trail. Also Darwin: I recommend this $3000 backpacking gear list.

[@dcwurster813]

I have found that a small piece of Thai deodorant crystal will keep you from stinking. It is a salt crystal that, when applied to normally stinky parts of the body, will prevent the growth of the bacteria that causes you to smell. I learned of this on extended high country elk hunts. Use with a little water you can prevent body odor for extended periods of time. It is what I have chosen for daily use and it works.

[@TreeRoot577]

I use it too, natural and no smell

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

thats all I use every day for years now. All those chemicals and aluminum in the commercial stuff is bad for you anyways.

[@pkay1111]

I am so happy I am B.O free and most time I stay at home watching KZbin videos. Thanks for sharing.

[@Y2J3469]

Deodorant works for me. You still smell but not that brutal BO smell. There are small, light and 24 hour working ones and it is a MUST for me and many, many other true ultralight backpackers.

[@mysterylovescompany2657]

"...you're going to meet a lot of ppl on the trail & become friends-" Bold of you to assume I'm befriendable. 😂

[@itsabuscus1619]

Dude. I’m so happy I found your channel.

[@hrandolph1]

Excellent point regarding these goddamn bluetooth personal speakers. Popping up everywhere.

[@surfingtothestars]

Here in Alaska it is actually recommended to make noise while you’re hiking for bear deterrence

[@brandonfoley7519]

Bear bells

[@tallaganda83]

Same with in Australia more so walking heavy than actual noise but the vibration scares the snakes away in theory.

[@07kenbird]

@@tallaganda83 I've hiked the Bibbullman & spent a lot of time in the bush and try & walk lightly because like bird watching. Very rarely seen a snake unless I go looking for them. I saw more snakes (all rattlers) during my 12 months hiking the AT & cycling through the USA than I have seen in 10 years on my own home turf. Remember that snake venom is usually reserved for subduing prey. I don' believe that even our non-venomous pythons get large enough to consider humans food.

[@off2kurebeach]

You can borrow my roommate anytime.. her loud mouth will make sure that there's no bears within a 10-ft mile radius😆

[@dont375]

Yeah right. It’ll draw their attention if they’re hungry asf

[@danielfay]

I think it's great that you sign in your videos, really great to see people supporting the deaf community.

[@jrrainwater]

Mother-in-law

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

lol.... Yeah! Hike On, Darwin

[@rrebelone0423]

Gonna have to salute this answer! Well played! 🙌🏻

[@indycharlie]

Perfect , you win !!!!

[@JoshuaGuptill]

@@NorthernWayfarer-Alice Clearly the wrong wife. Wouldn't leave mine at home for anything!! She keeps me from stupid thoughts like "I can hike rough poorly marked trails at night I'm The Man". Plus she doesn't care that I stink cause she does to by then.

[@BrokeSpaceLaser]

I try to keep my pack lite.. my MOL is way too heavy. My pack isn’t that big either.

[@watertankhikes]

I agree with everything you listed. I learned the hard way with the solar panels. They barely worked even in the Mojave Desert on the PCT. Regarding #5, if the next trail town has a dollar store, I head there first, and pick up a $3 T-shirt to change into, and a $1 can of body spray/deodorant to hose myself down with. Then after the dollar store, I head to a cafe for a big, greasy breakfast.

[@ifell3]

Ha ha the guy who brings a cute puppy, a guitar and deodorant is only after pulling a sweaty thru hiker!!

[@mikefoster5663]

Like hearing advice from someone like you who has a lot of experience to draw from.

[@ivanalalusic2029]

I always bring my dog hiking with me because she loves it. It also doesnt add any weight because she carries her food and water in her little doggy backpack. I just tend to stop a little more frequently so she can have a break.

[@urdancedream2688]

I bring mine as well. I have a medical condition and he is able to warn me of symptoms before I can even feel them. He's also a working farm dog so he tends to question why I'm going so slow during the hikes.

[@everythingreviewsandnews1229]

Its great that you have a relationship with your furry friend. But, sometimes its not about you, and about others on the trail. not saying you do it, but finding poop on the trial to step in, hearing someone's dog barking all night, and people not being responsible with their pets is just annoying.

[@MyBinaryLife]

RC Everything Reviews and News so how about the dogs that don’t bark at all, and the 99.9% of owners who pack out their dogs poop? Of the thousands of dogs I’ve ran into in trails not one has ever been an issue.

[@BeYouBold]

domestics are anti wild

[@JoshuaGuptill]

I think the stand out point on pets in this video was really the part about where you can't bring them. If they are welcome end to end and are like my hybrid who wears me out long before he gets tired and you are keeping the trail clean by all means bring them along. The bigger issue was the people that don't bring enough rations and water for them or don't know there are places they are not accepted and have to be accommodated for.

[@georgehornsby2075]

Also I love Darwin's "Before I start giving my opinion on drones let me...." give my opinion on drones

[@ty88]

8:25 "or a cat" LOL IMAGINE SEEING SOMEONE WITH A CAT ON THE A.T.

[@PaulRanky]

Darwin, great video! Thank you! Question: how do you protect yourselves from ticks in the woods? Best, Paul

[@mangoekiwi]

What a well explained video. You're always concise and on point!

[@terrapinrocks]

Thumbs way up for being someone who actually comprehends LNT in all its facets.

[@johnmcneeley]

I hear you with regards to carrying a Drone. Kind of heavy and quite fragile. I don't think noise would be too much of an issue if you just flew it when when you were separated from other hikers. Dixie (Homemade Wanderlust) carried her Mavic Pro for a portion of the trail on her 2017 PCT thru hike. I'm glad she did. She didn't post extensive drone footage, but what she did post was pretty spectacular. For those that still intend on bringing a drone, just like dogs, there are many places where drones aren't legal. Need to do lots of research.

[@TrailHunger]

John McNeeley actually pretty Much of tre PCT is drone friendly. At least according to the faa map.

[@386Clarke]

John McNeeley How do you know when no one's around when you're on trail? You don't. Someone could be a minute behind you or ahead at any time. Or in the woods at a nice peaceful camp, oblivious to your presence until...Bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.....Oh I just thought of a good use for the AR 15 a previous commenter mentioned backpacking with lol. Warm regards mate! Hike well.

[@Just_Mark]

Matthew Clarke do they make bird shot cartridges in .556?

[@TrailHunger]

I didn't mean friendly in the sense that other people won't be annoyed :) just from a legal standpoint.

[@NatureShy]

Matthew Clarke if you have a good reason to fly a drone on the trail, then it is ok. For example, if you are a filmer or are creating a KZbin series, like Homemade Wanderlust did. But if you’re just flying the drone to get some “sick footage” to show to your friends, then ABSOLUTELY NOT should you fly a drone on the trail. You must have a good reason to do so, such as creating video content for other people to enjoy. And you can be sued for destruction of personal property; if the drone flier was flying legally, then you’re going by to be the one in deep trouble.

[@snabelone]

Found your channel today.. couldn't stop watching.. Thanks Darwin and greetings from Scandinavia!

[@rangerted7147]

Great stuff, Darwin. All very well said. Your commitment to leaving no trace esp. with regard to the drone and the amplified music is something that everyone needs to hear!

[@EarlyMist]

I have that Lantern in another brand and I love taking it out. Solar panel on top recharges it enough to use each night and it's light enough to not fuss about weight. Personal preference.

[@staceybucklin3932]

Thank you for making the dog comment. I am a dog lover, but I've seen too many incidents with dogs on the trail to feel comfortable bringing one. One sweet dog I knew knocked over the meal of a vegan/gluten free hiker. The hiker was super gracious, but it wasn't easy to replace her specialized meal. I've also seen dogs killing local wildlife and tearing down small trees. Please, leave the dogs at home.

[@DarrinSK]

nope. deal with it

[@chrisheffel3155]

Spot on Stacey. Well said. I’ve been on hikes where there were multiple dogs. It ruined the entire experience.

[@chrisheffel3155]

Barky Von Schnauzer Then go to a dog park. We have enough damage from humans in our natural spaces. We don’t need dogs too. I’m not going to our nations parks to spend time with your dog or mine. Do that at home. I’m going for what’s left of nature, the stuff you don’t see because you insist on hiking with an apex predator.

[@lejeuneartisan5667]

Good, teach that vegan a lesson

[@jerrygortmaker8777]

@@DarrinSK Typical dickhead just because you think it's ok to annoy fellow hikers that came to the woods to relax. Your dog wonders into my camp you will never see it again and I am a dog lover. I hate people that lean on my peace of mind just because they are too pussy to deal with nature alone. I believe most of you bring a dog to throw to the wolves cuz you don't belong in the woods chicken S#!ts a$$#oles.

[@metouw]

6:33-7:24 When I'm out hiking for 7-14 days (I'm no pro by any means) I bring biodegradable soap and a perfume tester. The soap is mostly used for dishwashing but if I'm in the need for a bath I can jump into a lake and get real clean without harming the environment. The one I use from sea to summit is quite expensive (67USD per 33,8 oz / 1 liter in this part of the world), so you only use a few drops at a time. To me it can really be a game changer. You just feel a lot better when you're clean! The tester with perfume takes up no space, weighs practically nothing and can easily last for the entirety of my trips. I feel it can be nice to cover some of the nasty smells towards the end of the trip. Before I start my hike I also spray my cloths with perfume (not crazy amounts of cause). Maybe I'm just weird like that and haven't learned to embrace the smell, but to me it's totally worth it.

[@Inertia888]

Things I wish I [Did] bring,,, + Did differently: >Astroglide (chafing) >Moleskin, or Leukotape (blisters) >Rain Jacket/ Windbreaker (stay warm + conserve energy) even in 70F or 20C, being under fed and in the high wind and mountain top rain for days at a time, I became slightly hypothermic. Even a light, outer shell could have kept this from happening.

[@JoshuaGuptill]

Story of my life!! Hiked a minor mountain in January in NH in a t-shirt and jean jacket with sneakers to test a new lense. Every shot at the top was garbage because i was shivering so bad.

[@robertknowles2699]

Thank you Darrick for re-listing couple of necessities.

[@tanner03able]

As always Darwin, thank you so much for the video.

[@Mithadon]

Honestly, I find the deodorant essential because it literally helps me sleep at night when I have to deal with my armpit smell!

[@semperpie1141000]

I am planning a thru hike and have been considering bringing my pocket trumpet, but after reading some of the comments and considering the weight (2.1 lbs) I may hold off on bringing it. I thought it may be something to lighten the mood at camp as well as keeping me pumped up.

[@JerryFountain]

I've heard deodorant /antiperspirant referred to as "bear icing" (something to slather on yourself to attract bears/critters). Yet another smellable item you don't want in your tent in bear territory. For boy scouts heading to Philmont in New Mexico, it's on their do not bring list for this very reason.

[@autonomous2010]

Yes! I recall my boyscout teacher waaaaay back in the day said the same thing. Adding something to yourself that could smell like food to another animal is just asking for trouble. Body Odor may be unpleasant to other humans but you know what it's also unpleasant to... things that might want to eat you.

[@kravist518]

One of my new favorite channels the tips and gear recommendations are excellent and the hiking video’s are awesome

[@knotfinley]

My favorite cast iron pan.

[@ElementofKindness]

Spot on, for the whole list! You sound like the perfect type hiker to be sharing the trail with.

[@MrPaulalara]

Disagree about the deodorant part. a little goes a long way, I took one of those small travel sized ones with me on a month long PCT trek. I was DAMN glad I had it, and had it ON, when I encountered a cute backpacker at one campsite and we hit it off! TOTALLY worth it!!! oh yeah and drones are illegal in national parks anyway, so why risk damaged an expensive toy.

[@Bocsaphoto]

That's a big W

[@xmh3fx]

If You Need light in your tent, get one of those Nite Ize LED glow sticks. They are cheap, they are really small and lite, are multipurpose (strap one on the back of your backpack and you're ready to go in the darkness on a foggy street, won't get run over) and also come in different varietes (white light for the use as a tent lamp, red as a signal device or if you want that submarine-feel in your tent etc).

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

WHAT,, NO BANJO ??

[@DBTdad]

Thank you for getting this out there!

[@HaasGrotesk]

I agree with the list except for the deodorant. A deodorant for me is a good morale boost. I don't know what type of deo you're using but the one I use combined with a merino wool T-shirt makes me feel fresh for at least a week! If there's anything to bring it's the deodorant! :D

[@icejunki]

HaasGrotesk I am with you. I haven't completed a thru- hike so I can't pretend to be in the same league as an accomplished thru- hiker but I am a deodorant advocate. So you took the words right out of my mouth, merino wool and deodorant work wonders together. And may I add my third piece of the combo.......baby wipes at night. I wipe down then rub deodorant on my hands and then rub my hands on all the skin I can reach including the hair on my head and I go to bed dry and feeling like a million bucks. Does this routine seem completely ludicrous to all thru-hikers? I'm curious. I've heard people talk about how good day hikers smell so it looks like I've put my own foot in my mouth, proofs in the pudding, and I must still be too close to the day hiker end of the spectrum than the thru-hiker "embrace the stink" end of the spectrum. Thanks Darwin

[@danielhowie4954]

Absolutely right on.👍🏻 even if you don't have enough self respect to wear it, think of other people. Anti-perspirant will last you much longer than regular deodorant.

[@shadowprince4482]

Smelly people is just something you are supposed to expect with the territory of backpacking. I still bring deodorant but that's because my pits get so bad that they make me feel sick. I'm used to being smelly and dirty in the outdoors but I just can't deal with my armpits.

[@dennydiaz5080]

Lol you people need to hit the water fall with some sandy soils to exfoliate under your arms. Haha deodorant is useless if you use nature to your advantage.

[@chrisheffel3155]

I’ve done some longer trips, as long as Darwin, and I think it’s rude to skip the deodorant. I’ve been near people that smelled so bad it’s worse than any noise pollution. As to bears, do you think they want to eat a human? Then you need deodorant even more! Lol. Joking aside, Choose an unscented deodorant, just like noise pollution, for the benefit of those around you.

[@brandonlapeus7116]

This is really cool. I’m at the point of my life where I’m ready to buy a house/condo, but I’m going to pursue living in a 36 ft fifth wheel camper instead for this exact reason. I won’t necessarily take it to Darwin’s extreme, but the income saved is going directly into travel. As Gary V always says, “don’t buy stupid shit”

[@robertknowles2699]

When it's winter n.ohio, I stay in with electric small 1200 & 1500 watt heater. 2020 covid scare I burned wood as long as possible being single & alone. Tryin' to let cats mind house in late winter and head south near bicycle/canoe route near Potomac. Rivers run south and north. Monongahela flows n. into Ohio R. which runs N. a little. Bicycle GAP Pittsburgh to Cumberland and coast becomes closer. Wish REI could involve folks in group along this route to and, from south. Boat project by row and sail/outboards.

[@mtadams2009]

My home has more than doubled in value over the past twenty years. It sits on eight acres. Trails never go up in value. Now that I am retired I can travel and it’s nice to come home to a real house.

[@Arthur-Silva]

I'm taking my hamster with me on the pct lol

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

lol.... YESSSS! Hike On, Darwin

[@gtd360]

Something to throw at the bears. Always bring an attack hamster.

[@RandomButtonPusher]

Not really enough calories in a hamster to make it worth the trouble.

[@jerrybobteasdale]

Random, ya made me laff.

[@PhoenixGenesis]

My boyfirend Steve and I always used to hike with our cat Harley.

[@yewboup1]

My wife just bought me one of those luci lanterns for my PCT hike. Wasn't sure how I was going to break it to her. Now I'll just show her your video.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Glad I could help!....lol Hike On, Darwin

[@potatoghost2299]

That’s a shame, I wanted to bring my grand piano :(

[@brandonfoley7519]

I'll help you carry the piano, I'm sure if we chop it up and divide it amongst the group it'll be really easy to carry

[@FOUCHFABS]

Awesome video! Everything you said makes a lot of sense. My wife and I just started backpacking we been doing some overnighters, and weekend trips. Gonna do 4 days 3 nights in Pisgah week of 4th, so you videos have really gave us a lot of useful info. Thanks.

[@kgwash]

Deodorant...well zinc oxide or the like, is essential for some of us. Chafing is real. But I put it in a tiny container.

[@brentwelborn25]

I bring a Lucci EMRG lantern. If you cut off everything but the top which has the lights and solar panel it's only 1.62 oz with custom hanging attachment. Then if you store it on the outside of your pack while you hike all day, it charges in the sun (it's waterproof too). Basically, due to the solar power aspect, it gives you an eternal-ish light source without needing any battery and works great for a tent light with a wider light scatter than hanging a headlamp. It's nice for a big tent with a family in it.

[@OGraoulduke]

Dogs are allowed in Shenandoah national park as long as they are on a leash no longer than six feet

[@CollinHurler]

Came here to say this, not sure where he got that information, but I see dozens of dogs every time I do a weekend trip in Shenandoah.

[@claycarpenter8625]

@@CollinHurler well thats shenandoah. He did say that they are places were dogs arent allowed and some people ignore the rules and do it anyways. A short trip I can maybe see but but a long thru hike where you not only have to worry about yourself getting up a steep rockface but also your pet?? Just dont see it. Also you must consider the type of dog you have. If they are a breed that needs and requires alot of excercise would be more fit that a mutt or mixed breed. People don't often think about the dogs needs and concentrate on their own comfort just because it makes them feel better. It kills me that people own huskies and cold natured dogs in the desert just because they want one. It must be a good fit for both and that includes long hikes

[@CollinHurler]

@@claycarpenter8625 I completely agree with you. I was just pointing out that there are Nat. Parks that DO allow dogs. I didn't mean to infer that I think dogs are a good idea on a Thru hike. Their needs should absolutely be assessed and evaluated just as significantly as your own

[@shaunabbott9236]

Personally I would take a dog as there wild anyway there good if you injured to get help they keep you warm when your cold and they alert dangerous and chase it off this guy thinking a dog wants to be lazy should of got himself a cat not a dog 😡

[@jamesnolen3934]

Dogs are not allowed in the backcountry.

[@bubbalovesoatmealadventure108]

Oatmeal and I are a little blown away that you would leave your dude on the couch while you are out having fun in the woods. Avoiding National parks would be our advice to you. Sure, you do YOURSELF a favor by leaving HIM at home. We also get a LOT from your movies, so we thank you for posting them and value your opinions on things...stay good.

[@justinvandenbroek2646]

Darwin can you give me an update on the aegis max ul quilt? I'm getting ready to pull the trigger on one just wanted to see if it is still working out for u

[@Besalu]

It is actually a great alternative, but only for hot summer weather. It is a 45°F bag and not very warm in cold weather.

[@davidevans2653]

I'd go for an enlightened equipment, yes it's more expensive but you really get a better quality product

[@justinvandenbroek2646]

Which one do you personally have and how cold have you had it down to?

[@davidevans2653]

I have a revelation 20 850FP, I've had it out on some frosty mornings and I was snug as a bug , to be honest I've never had it out in really cold conditions. They do a full range of degree and FP and they make to order so you can get one to suit your needs

[@EarlyMist]

I have three Aegismax sleeping bags (not the quilt) and they are awesome. I've slept down to 4° celsius with comfort. Looking forward to testing at below 0° with thermals and a fleece top. I'd love if that worked for winter camping. They are about 650 grams each (the black non mummy model and one Gold model with drawstring closure at the feet). I literally just sold my EE quilt as the Aegismax have so far been more than adequate. My EE quilt was only rated as low as the Aegismax bags though. If I had ordered a lower temp rated EE quilt it would have been kept for winter hiking.

[@fseesauras]

I like your style Darwin. This video was very easy to watch.

[@BCRBCRBCRBCRBCRBCR]

Take the deodorant. Think of others. The Smell Pollution is real. Practice proper hygiene especially when going into town.

[@autonomous2010]

I think his point is that when hiking, you end up sweating everywhere. So it really doesn't help much. Washing up before entering town would seem a lot more polite. :-P

[@SpaghettiToaster]

A turkish shower after one week of hiking is not "proper hygiene" lol.

[@brandonfoley7519]

Have you ever done any long distance hikes? Or for that matter have you ever spent more than 3 hours outside I can carry several lbs of deodorant it's not gonna work out I'll still smell like a sewer eventually Doesn't really do anyone any good

[@MuvoTX]

Spot on... I would also add a hand held flashlight as a non-essential. A good headlamp (and even a backup if you like) is sufficient.

[@soaringeagleoutdoors]

Good list - agree with all especially about bringing dogs. By northern VA most of the dogs I saw were emaciated and not doing very well - downright cruel. Also, in 2016 there were reports of a hiker carrying a broad sword and wearing chain mail - missed the sight myself

[@soaringeagleoutdoors]

That’s cool. It never occurred to me that the broadsword guy may have been doing something similar. Thanks for the enlightenment

[@joma4499]

john Mullholand what distance are you going to hike?

[@shawnzimmerman5353]

That would be alot of extra weight

[@bryantodd6507]

I have a blue heeler and I went on a 14 mile hike with him. He took a 5 minute in the car and was ready for more by the time we arrived home. If anybody needs a 6 month hike, it's my dog. For those who dont know, a blue heeler is like every other dog if you fed every other dog meth in the morning.

[@Dirtkid98505]

I have an Alaskan Malamute and plan on winter hiking with her. For 10000 years they've been put to work and she loves to carry a vest and I bet she'd love to pull a sled! Malamutes pull sleds everyday and have unexplainable metabolism manipulation and muscle recovery abilities so I'd have a difficult time keeping up with her on a long distance hike lol

[@noahchicoine4780]

So, as far as pets on the trail, I am fully aware that it's logistically a nightmare to bring a dog on the AT. I've heard of people doing it and having their furry companion shuttled or housed around the parks. Sounds like a logistics nightmare. On the other hand, the Long Trail (which I live very close to) has all sorts of information on how to make it work with dogs, and how to take care of your dogs on the LT, they seem to be expecting/encouraging it. My dog hikes everywhere with me, I pretty much won't hike something if I can't bring my dog. He's pretty high energy and loves putting on the miles. So I guess like most things, it depends on what you're doing and how acclimated you and your dog are.

[@christiangoett3014]

what if my dog wants to hike the CO trail??? Dogs permitted... only 500 m

[@carolinehernandez5458]

Great information. Thank you for sharing your expertise on hiking tips!!!!!

[@iviewthetube]

I would never bring blue ice to keep things cold. At the very least, freeze a beer and drink it when it thaws out and is done keeping everything else cold.

[@iviewthetube]

I've tried it. I would never use glass. Aluminum does seem to bulge a bit.

[@JessieBanana]

Petzl makes a headlamp case, that diffuses the light from your headlamp and can be hung from your tent like a lantern. It works with most headlamps and only weighs 3 ounces. You can store your headlamp in it when it in use, so it doesn’t take up a ton of space.

[@KuntryRD]

Taking a dog makes your hike their hike. A dog can't tell you when something is wrong, you always have to accomodate them. I love my dog, and do take her on short hikes, but definitely not on longer ones. She likes to go, but it would make it hard to spend a night in a hotel or a lot of hostels, it would be difficult to buy food in a store without finding someone to watch her, etc. If they get hurt, you have to be able to carry them out, as you may be the only one that they will trust to do this. Short hikes, yes; long hikes no (for me only; your mileage may vary). As for the drone, the AR15 or AK47 packing hiker would take care of that for you :) . I have a friend that uses and takes deodorant; I really hate telling him that he still stinks. I just let it go, since he is carrying it.

[@TheMrVengeance]

Yeah, good job, fix a few minutes of noise pollution by more noise pollution and breaking the law!

[@aredman22]

Great list with very good rationale for your no-go items.

[@thomaszabel1521]

Regarding pets, besides having to scope out what areas don't allow them, you also need to pack extra food and water for them. Dogs have to drink more water than humans to stay cool and hydrated. I could see going on a day hike or an overnighter, but I couldn't imagine having to carry the extra weight of extra food and water for a dog through the desert portion of the PCT. It would be bad to try to explain to your furry friend that he needs to just tough it out for another 15 miles until the next water source. Plus I'd feel really bad if my dog got bitten by a rattler. Probably worse than if I got bitten myself.

[@calmerthanyouare9858]

You are right about the extra work required if you choose to hike with a dog. In 2010 my dog hiked from Georgia to Connecticut with me on the AT. I put some of my snacks in his pack, but I carried his food, water, and blanket in my pack. I also carried a 2 person tent so we could have enough space at night. He is my best friend, so I thought it was worth it to carry the extra weight. Snakes made me nervous too, so I always walked in front. I always put his needs, comfort, and safety before mine. I would do it all over again.

[@janefreeman995]

I've had it explained that unless it is a hardened working dog, dogs will be good for maybe about 5 days. They're built for shorter bursts of energy in a day. Beyond that to force them to go all day everyday for months is in my mind abusive. People have all kinds of anthropomorphic ideas about the capabilities of their pets.

[@stephencheek2949]

jane freeman, When you say “hardened working dogs,” do you mean dogs that are physically used to working, or are you talking about specific breeds intended to perform specific tasks?

[@janefreeman995]

Stephen Cheek hi... I was thinking hard working dogs not necessarily breed.... I wish I could point to the article I read... it really changed my thinking about it and it made sense. My dog was so happy to stay home for the 4 months... it was a some years ago. She went to dog heaven last week at 16. A very good girl.

[@sudanjackson]

Hey Darwin. I Love your videos - keep them coming, and don't give a second thought to the people who question how you are able to do this. I applaud you :-) I have not done any of the american thu-hikes, but I have done my fair share of hiking in the Alps, through the Bulgarian mountains, and 400km on the Camino de Santiago in the north of Spain. I also do long distance Bikepacking through Europe - up to 100km per day. One thing I don't agree with you on: "embrace the stink" :-) Can't do it... and my DO is always with me. Mind you, I haven't done any 3-6 month long hikes. But still, on all my adventures, I do bring my hygiene-essentials. And I do manage to remain ultra-light with them.