My Gear Picks! (Appalachian Trail 2015)

[@jannisct]

May 2020. 4-1/2 year old video. I’ve watched countless hours of your videos here and to see the maturation of you camera presence and your poise is really something. You are an inspiration. Be safe.

[@williamtownsend3279]

This is one of my favorite videos of yours because your personality really shows through. Get to see you laugh and smile and be funny. I'm 52 and I'll never do a thru hike although I dreamed about it for many years. Climbed Old Rag a few times, and portions of the Shenandoah. But watching your videos has motivated me to at least do small treks again. I find you quite amazing. Seems like there would be more of a back story than just being tired of a cubicle. Either way, there is no doubt you earned your way into that community you are in. And your advice is very welcome to someone like me just starting again. I lost my job and thought about the AT again, but I'm not foolish enough to do it in a few months prep. Maybe next year. All my gear is cheap and heavy. You're an inspiration.

[@TruckManThings]

even boomers can be simps. love to see it lmao

[@stevemazz3121]

Trick to avoid hip pain while sleeping on the ground. Lay down and mark where your hips and shoulders touch the ground. OR mark your sleeping pad. Then with a stick or shovel try and loosen the dirt where you plan to sleep. Then dig down a bit where your hips and shoulders will lay to allow your pad to contour to your body.... a little work but makes for comfortable nights sleep.

[@neilbadger4262]

That's something I had not thought of. Cool :-) ok preferably warm but hey ho

[@jessemudge9749]

Your right it does but what about no trace?

[@hfrendal5374]

lol nice army trick, the enemy just have to count the numbers of buttholes and find your exact numbers. No we never learned this. Sleep curled up like the animals you are they said. In winter we flattened out the snow all around with snow shoes so there was no clear tracks of numbers. But for a civilian it is probably an idea, but I still sleep curled up like an animal.

[@stevemazz3121]

I never gave a thought that bears or cougars might be counting how many of us were traveling together... Good information, thank you.

[@Copper.Cowboy]

I saw the same thing in Alaska Bush People

[@marvinlusk7303]

I really liked this video. IT seemed down to earth and honest and not at all "brand bragging." Great video.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

+Marvin Lusk Thank you! Just telling the truth on how I felt about the gear I used. Hope it helped :)

[@casey40869]

I have an 80 liter pack from REI and is REI brand and thought about Z packs but honestly I feel like even if my pack weighs a bit more I can cut down on other things. I just love my pack lol. My parents got it for me so it means a lot

[@joshgraw3595]

Darn Tough socks are amazing. The only thing I really buy or ask for now. Hiking, working, running, anything. Hot, cold, wet, dry, all of it. Fantastic, totally worth it! Thanks for the info!

[@katherinewarner1714]

I loved this video. I also highly RECOMMEND a ALDI DRY FIT TOWEL. I know it sounds big and heavy, but it's not. IT IS SUPER LIGHT, SUPER ABSORBENT, THIN, and COMPACT. The Aldi dryfit towel also DRIES EXTREMELY FAST. I have used it for so many things and haven't looked back.

[@chelseacarmichael4837]

For the longest time it was so hard to find gear videos, and even videos in general of women planning, preparing, etc for the AT and that sucked. (I am 20 and have been obsessed with the trail for years) I am so thankful you make these videos. It may be a personal preference, but watching prep videos by females just helps me relate better. You are such an inspiration Dixie!

[@jasholden9741]

Try this. Use the syringe to back flush a filter that you have been back flushing with the Smart Water bottle of a long while. I think that you might be surprised how much more gunk comes out. If you are able to flush with high pressure while in town regularly, that's ok too.

[@jshepard152]

Eating from bare aluminum isn't good. You can get a decent anodized aluminum cook set on Amazon for about $15. And for about $20-25 on eBay, you can pick up a no-name titanium pot that will work quite well for very low weight.

[@edog1955]

We can get by with a lot less than we think: I got a ride with friends from CA to Denver with my bike in '75. I rode a figure 8 route around the state of Colorado--including 10 passes over 10K in 10 days before cycling west across Utah, Nevada and back to University in Santa Barbara. The trip lasted a month. I carried only a small bag in front and my sleeping bag strapped under my seat. No rack, no panniers. I had only 3 items of clothing, all nylon: a shirt, shorts and briefs. No socks.No pants. My only "extra" clothing was a down jacket. I washed my clothes in a gas station sink daily. I camped every day, and only had a small plastic tarp [my ground cover] to put over a picnic table if it rained. It only rained 2 times at night, but I rode thru the daily mountain thunderstorms...DUMB!! Food purchased didn't need cooking and I rarely ate at a restaurant. I had a blast! And yes, I took a razor! Call me "Mr. Clean"!!

[@bajojohn]

What all did you have in your bag? Did you have a tent and sleeping bag?

[@Billcarsonstobaccobox]

NOTE: Red beam is good for stealth camping as well. Aso their low emission light. You will be less like to be spotted by human hunters (killers) in the wilds. Also remember to take a spare set of button batteries if you have an item that uses them. Russian foot binding is an alternative to socks.... If your interested.

[@ricklund2560]

War Eagle! Thank you for your thorough, flexible, animated suggestions on hiking and gear. I've been on the trails and mountains of the Pacific Northwest since the early 70's, and find I am still learning better (and now, safer) ways of indulging the passion of the mountains.

[@MarcMallary]

Titanium pots are worth it, cuz they are not poison aluminum, lightweight and they are more heat resistant then stainless steel.

[@tippersteffi1]

I can't tell you how much this video helps, I'm forming my plans now to hike the AT in 2017, you have answered so many questions....maybe you could talk a little about your physical preparation in a future video, thanks again, you are awesome!

[@Kalywonkas]

Did you do it in the end? Kudos if so!

[@southronjr1570]

FYI, the Super glue can be used to close a laceration. Doctors actually use a slightly modified version instead of stiches to close wounds. Theirs has an additional antibiotic ingredient, but otherwise the same. Better than using your stitching needle and dental floss. Alcohol swabs can be used as a fire starter in the rain, as well as neosporin, too

[@smuir6104]

By the way about the aluminum, my good friend is a scientist that studied aluminum consumption, and he told me that you would literally have to eat the entire pot 3 times a day for years before you could consume enough aluminum to cause problems, the aluminum scare was a marketing ploy to sell other pots, so you are more than fine to use it.

[@jshepard152]

Yeah, but you can taste it. Isn't that enough reason?

[@jkgkjgkijk]

Tell that to workers who got fluorosis.

[@SoulDevoured]

@@jkgkjgkijk fluorosis is fluoride poisoning right?

[@ChrisSunHwa]

@@SoulDevoured Yep. www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/fluorosis

[@chuckjohnson402]

THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU HAVE SHARED! ESPECIALLY THE ENTIRE JOURNEY! WHAT A BLESSING YOU HAVE BEEN TO WATCH!

[@livingsurvival]

Interesting video, thanks for sharing. I am going through what I am going to take on my hike of the AT. I've watched a few of your gear videos but don't want to watch your hikes because I don't want to ruin the surprises LOL. Nice channel.

[@suejones7751]

Living Survival mode 4

[@akumanightthorn]

Did you ever go?

[@noahcannon6806]

You’re such an inspiration! I’m getting everything together for my first two week hike through the AT, I’m starting near Gatlinburg, can’t wait, thank you for all the wonderful tips and information!

[@glennbevin7464]

I stumbled on your videos today while l am convalescing from a total knee replacement 4 days ago. I used to backpack a lot but had to stop because of the knee injury some years ago. You have rekindled the fire! Thank you!

[@vickhines6302]

27 inch bandannas are more useful than the common 24 inchers. You can cut weight and still have a functional bandanna by folding two opposite corners to the center, cutting the resulting triangles off, and hemming the raw edges. The result is long enough to tie around your neck or head.

[@JohnTubbsMB]

Hey Dixie! Thanks again for the wonderful video series, and the gear review. One thing you didn't mention here and I forget if you addressed it on one of the videos was...the weight of the pack, sans food and water. Also, if (or, since I think I know you a bit by now - WHEN) you do the PCT, please get in touch with me. My wife and I live in western Washington (and years ago I hiked the state of Oregon on the PCT except for a small part between CA and Fish Lake) and we are convenient to White Pass, Chinook Pass and Snoqualmie Pass and would be happy to do some trail magic or give you a place to stay for a layover day and some great food. Having also done about 500 miles of the AT (many years ago!) you'll find that getting off trail for resupply or a layover day is much more challenging on the PCT, so it helps to have some logistics lined up at the passes. Thanks again for the great vicarious hiking adventure! John

[@veaziemi]

Nice video! I like that you're doing the gear guide after you finished the AT - it makes it seems much more authentic :)

[@mtadams2009]

For truly light gear to to Zpack, as an older hiker its the only way to go. Much lighter than anything you can buy in a store. Thanks for your video and taken the time to put this list together.

[@northsideofthemountain4068]

I've watched a lot of "gear" videos. I have to say this one is by far the most informative and interesting. Thanks for sharing

[@tr33m00nk]

VERY WELL DONE vid! As someone else said also: to the point (but not boring), informative and (I must add) filled with the wisdom of experience! You PAY ATTENTION to important details and don't get fixated on brand hype or popularity. You use what works and pass over the rest. That is a rare skill, in case you didn't know. I have hiked and sometimes bushwacked in the White and Green Mts., in the Maine Northwoods, in the Yukon and in Northern Quebec. I made some of my gear and found less expensive alternatives, as you did, when the commercial choices didn't suit. Despite all these trips, I will be looking at (and listening! to) your other videos and blog (probably the first blog I've found that is worth the time) because of all of your cogent observations about current equipment and treking tips. (I'm very out of date.) Also, your videographer is very good. As the Irish say: May the road rise up to meet you and the wind be ever at your back.

[@MishaDaBear]

For trekking poles I use a pair of damaged fiberglass hockey sticks. They were obtained for free at a local hockey arena. I epoxy in a bolt on the bottom with a X cut in the bolt head to increase traction. I put cloth tape on both ends, the top for me, and a grip on the base for assisting others. These can take a lot of abuse and last for years, plus they can double as a weapon if needed! Thanks for the great videos :D

[@MishaDaBear]

Oh, hockey sticks fail at the blade leaving a 3-5 foot handle!

[@rfeyman3682]

Good list and always looking for better gear. For me the Smartwool wore out WAY too fast. Sticking with Darn Tough, Wigwam, and Wright Socks. Darn Tough are still my favorites. I seriously considered the Osprey but was impressed with my friend's Gregory enough to go for that. So comfortable! And yes it weights more and no I don't give a poo - it works! For the emergency kit I have added Quickclot after one of my fingers found a thorn and I found out just how much you can bleed from such a tiny injury. For picking up inexpensive gear - online auction sites/classifieds are awesome. Not to mention some of the classifieds are hilarious to read pretty much, "Hey, I bought a ton of gear and hiked one/two days to figure out I hate hiking."

[@crgn84]

When she showed the shorts, who else though "Sweet! Army PT shorts, I have those'?

[@thelostfountain1678]

My son calls them Daisy Dukes of Freedom...hahahaha

[@TheDoctorsButtercup]

I thought "how'd she get PT shorts?"

[@emraldeyz1]

I'm old enough that when you mentioned it I expected yellow trimmed in black.

[@tphvictims5101]

Anker makes the best of the best battery backup/power supply. Headlamps, TRUST ME ITS ARMYTEK WIZARD XPH50. Amazon of course. Batteries (18650) it goes to Olight.

[@leeannwolff6642]

You're hilarious with the aluminum. Thanks so much for this great review of your gear picks. Happy trails!

[@floydvaughn836]

Thanx for you and your videoed adventures. You got me to thinking about the A.T. But I'm old and out of shape. Then, going through Wytheville, VA, I realized. I've DONE the A.T. On 18 wheels! Well, most of it anyway. Y'all have a GOODN.

[@darylhicks7008]

I Wore a hole in my darn tough socks. Actually was an ember from the fire that burnt a hole in them and they honoured it and replaced them at MEC in Calgary today.

[@LoveatFirstHike]

I've been stocking up on gear after doing loads of research for some of my first upcoming hikes, Isle Royale, Porcupine Mountains, and Hocking Hills.. your video is affirming that I chose the correct gear. Awesome! Feeling excited.

[@Inertia888]

I got painful bunions from wearing shoes that were not wide enough, (that spot on the front side that our feet wear out through the shoe)constantly binding my toes together. since the pain started I now use Altra Zero Drop wide fit size and they have helped a lot. Cooking on the trail, I found that cutting one of those heavy gauge foil baking pans up to make a windscreen for my stove was a big help to make my stove more efficient.

[@What_If_We_Tried]

Just getting into backpacking, want to hike the AT in a couple of years, so your extensive presentation is very much appreciated. Thank-you...

[@MrRabidPriapism]

Thank you for putting together a very user-friendly and to the point video or real world gear. I love videos that you and Whitney put together for just being real, without the need to go into character. I've watched lots of folks do the AT since I caught the bug and I'm sure I'm not the only one looking for more adventures from you. Hopefully, you can make it to the PCT next season (or anytime really). I watched Will Wood this year and liked his. I'd love to see your version of it. Good luck and God Bless.

[@sandororoszi65]

A great informative video - I'm 55 and just starting to like the idea of Hiking - so your video was just perfect! I look forward to watching the rest of them.

[@TheGeoJG]

Great video. Lots of great questions in the comments. Did you use a footprint for the tent? I want to hike but have no one to go with me. Advice?

[@TheGeoJG]

I am leaving next week! Still cannot find a cook pot like you had. And it's challenging to find appropriate clothing for the 'larger' woman. I want to be comfortable but not scare folks!

[@welderguy-mm6lc]

Just a tid bit of advice, stay away from aluminum and plastic for dinner ware. stainless steel is the way to go. Really. But looks like you've really put your equipment to use and I've learned a few things from your videos. Definitely got me thinking. Keep it up and keep em coming. Love to see others getting down on the camping/bushcraft thing. Good times.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Thank you! :)

[@cherokeeschill]

Dr. Scholl's gave me plantars fasciitis. I just bought a pair of Nike joyride's. They've been a real game changer for me. Now to work on lowering my pack weight.

[@andrewlinesjah4538]

Pepper Spray is okay , But it will not keep you safe . Kahr P or CW 380 with 90gr .380 GDHP and two spare magazines is a Micro Pocket pistol lethal package ! Bear spray is a necessity too ...

[@justindelaney8829]

Followed you from the beginning! Between you and will wood and a few others you got me to research and plan my own 2016 thru hike! Recently registered on the Appalachian Trail Conservancy website for next year. All the videos and what gear you used helped me in planning my own. I plan on making an attempt at making videos like you did. Thanks for all the videos and good luck on all future adventures! - Justin

[@jshepard152]

Did you hike it?

[@1Selous]

Just to point out, you use a sleep mat, because it takes you off the ground as the ground get s cold first which means your get, cold very quick when sleeping. re Sleeping liner 100% silk + bag rating + sleep mat = means if on a 2 season bag will take the rating up also liner ! keeps bag clean & stop bed bugs from getting through the liner as it is silk they cant get it.

[@jonmichael6478]

Both trekking poles, fair play. I've forget one but two 😅

[@didiermonot4509]

Great review Jessica😀 helpful and funny! My first Jessica video experience looking forward to seeing the others.

[@gaylinlack726]

Just ran across your AT gear review. Very good, informative. Good advice for beginner who will probably never do a complete thru-hike of PCT or AT but useful for those of us that will hike sections of the trail or go for one or two weeks. Thanks

[@ashleybaker481]

I'm in the process of watching all your video's and shared some of them to my facebook as well as a wonderful facebook group called "PNW OUTDOOR WOMEN GROUP" - highly recommend checking out this group. Wonderful group of helpful, friendly, informative ladies that love to hike.. I think you'd love it! QUESTIONS - 1. where can I check out your E-book? 2. Do you always filter/purify water along the trail or were there places you felt comfortable drinking straight from? 3. I live in WA and I'm worried about rain. Using the contractor bag vs NOT using a backpack rain cover. Did you pack get heavier from being soaked? WA it rains all the time and I'm sure I'm going to have to pack my tent away while it's raining and I'm going to be worried about a moldy tent. How do you ever get your gear dry when it rains for days or at least avoid mold. 4. Why do hikers suggest trail runners over hiking boots? Especially when they're not waterproof/water resistant?! Video Suggestions - 1. I haven't gotten to all your videos yet, but I think you should definitely do a video on how you filter/purify your water from different water sources, using your gear. Such as rivers, lakes, streams and that really yucky emergency water that's from a pond 2. I think all your gear is absolutely nifty/amazing and I'm literally make a WORD doc on brands, suggestions, items and most likely going to do an exact duplicate of all your gear. A list like that would be totally helpful to your viewers, I'm thinking? 3. Video on how to create a COZY/duplicate yours?! =) P.s. If you ever plan on doing the PCT... I'd love to hike with you!! #HikerBuddies #NewFriends #LadyHikers My facebook is facebook.com/ashley.baker.71404 =)

[@fireyourrocketts]

All the answer to your questions are in you tube videos about hiking all over the place; I would suggest to look it up; being prepared for hiking with the right gear and information takes time and $$ if you want the premium good stuff which will help you to hike light in weight;  it involves a lot of researching but it is not as bad as it sounds; you can compare prices on different gears everywhere on outdoor stores websites and amazon and as far as what is right it is up to you and your budget; it is an individual choice of what is right as every person is different. Hope this helps; good luck and happy hiking!

[@ryandvernychuk7033]

I wanna hike with you!!! Our packs are so similar! I’ve did a lot of 7 night back country trips canoeing / hiking and your naming off everything I’ve encountered out there!! I hope one day I run into you on a trail!! Come visit Canmore Alberta Canada if you haven’t already!!

[@Epitome63]

I bought Frogg Toggs years ago and hated them. Wore them once, and swore I would never wear them again. I should try them again, I was sitting on a wet boat seat and the water came straight through. Maybe not the best application.

[@antoniol1776]

Dixie your planters warts you pick them up when you went into town and took a shower without wearing slipper & you should have put on some powder on your feet afterwards. The only way to get rid of those is to have some Dr dig them out it hurts but it can be done. I've never had them but I know others who have they are very painful also Orajel works wonders on killing the Pain. It's not just for the mouth.

[@phillipdelaney2989]

I have had my darn tough socks for like a full year and they are still doing fine

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

You didn't mention if you ever go to REI "Garage Sales"...the member only mega sales. I've been an REI member for around 30 years, and have saved so much money. I have GREAT gear at pennies on the dollar. I love your sleeping bag. I have 2. One synthetic and one down, depending on the forecast and length of trip. I'd like to try what you're using to see if I like it. Maybe I'll find one at the next garage sale. Thanks for the video, and cheers!

[@stephenhiker6385]

Experienced long distance hiker here . currently finished the International Appalachian trail. Couple of things to save weight and give you a better experience use . Do not use a big ol water filter. use a steri pen of a dropper of bleach 2 drops of bleach per quart of water will do the same thing and save you a ton of weight also you wont have to have a good water bottle and a bad water bottle all bottle are equal. Plus bring along a water bladder that you can hang good light ones are easy to fold up and are relatively cheap. Nothing like the ability to clean up a little bit when you settle for the night. And dont be a poser and hike in rain gear unless it is extremely cold all you are going to do is sweat. Let the rain give you a hiker shower...

[@hogey74]

Thanks for this vid. I've done a tea house trek at altitude and now I am doing a 7 day through hike in Oz. Here I am watching vids like yours... reckon I've got the bug! I like the idea of picking a size and making things fit. It makes you accept a certain lifestyle ahead of time. Happy trails :-)

[@marktomasko7863]

have been using these exact grease pots for years---used to find them at walmart for 5 bucks but not any more---and you are the first person I have met to use them besides myself!1...I like your style. We have the same hiking/weight philosophy...I was ultralite before it became so popular

[@jeremyb.1977]

Awesome video and recommendations. Thank you Dixie for taking the time to share what worked and didn't work for you. I think, know how long things should last, like shoes, is something a lot of folks don't think about. Jeremy

[@mountaintruth1]

My sisters Walther single stack 9mm. weighs in under 2 lbs. with 9 rds. in the mag. and for most women very manageable recoil. She prefers my M & P .40 with 15 rd. mag. but is more of a service pistol and quite a bit heavier. I would definitely rather have a .380 than bear spray. I am relieved to know you made it safely in any event. Its the two legged types we have to worry about mostly.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

+mountaintruth1 Almost 2 pounds is a lot of extra weight! I just don't feel like it's necessary, but it is all about personal preference :)

[@mountaintruth1]

Agreed, just made me nervous finding out you were unarmed I guess. I have been in many situations that just the sight of a holstered pistol backed the bad eggs off. Awesome hike and much respect.

[@OFFROADRUNNER101]

Not until next year but I'm getting an early jump on my planning. Really excited and can't wait to be on the trail.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Yay!! So happy for you :) Start date? NOBO or SOBO?

[@rickcoulon890]

Fly Creek 2 is a great one person tent and I love the weight and pack efficiency, it has stood up to 50 mph winds on my winter hikes in North Carolina/Tennesee

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

+Rick Coulon Yes! I love mine :)

[@survivalcomms]

Excellent video. Thank you for taking the time to outline your thruhike kit. IMHO It is great practical stuff that is affordable, available and light weight. Thank you for sharing !

[@alexpearson7693]

This is my new favorite channel! So much good information!

[@marthastartup7080]

I like power step insoles. Not sure you want to use those that mold to your feet because that just molds to whatever disorder you have...reinforces your disorder (pronation/supination, etc).

[@jonmichael6478]

We need REI in the UK. We have Go outdoors and some small outlets throughout the UK. Unfortunately go out never have enough stock in average sizes.

[@tomjeffersonwasright2288]

Thanks for a great review, with names and sources. But you forgot your camera gear. I think I recall you using your phone. Perhaps you and Whitney could conspire to tell us of what camera and gear you used, and what editing software Whitney used, and the conclusions you drew from your experiences. The end product was very good, both as photography and editing. I am STILL hoping for that video of "Dixie Does the Floribama". I am sure you would have no shortage of voluntary production assistants. Just think of it as squooshing out the envelope.

[@michaelritter7942]

Lots of great info! Thank you so much for taking the time, this was really helpful!

[@1221Alice]

What about navigation? Maps. GPS. Apps. Guide. etc

[@gregd4391]

great videos, but I could not figure-out why you kept talking about "ladders" until you actually held one up...a "lighter."

[@CougarMutt]

Very well done video! I really like how you talk about what you used, why you used, and the alternative options. Made sense as to why someone would pick a 2 pound item over a 1.2 pound item. I enjoyed watching the entire video.

[@donaldrobinson5117]

Very informative Dixie !! Have wanted to hike the AT since I was a child and when that day comes this will help ;) Love following your adventures !

[@WoodyAndy]

Great comprehensive advice. Loving your channel!

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Thank you!

[@philwhittington685]

Dixie my Hiking Angel, thank you for the tips you have saved me pounds off my trip on the AZT, so much stuff I thought I might need I can leave behind, prior to the hike in march there is a kit shake down to see what else we can ditch.

[@arielm1112]

Thanks for the video. I used to use down, but after learning about how the feathers are harvested, I would never use down again. It is torture for the animals. :( I highly recommend polyester.

[@timgreen2260]

Wow. Just watched your gear review. Very entertaining and informative. Can't wait to watch more of your videos. I may never get to thru hike the AT, but love hiking, some bushcrafting and am always weight conscience. That's why I loved this video! Thanks!

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

+Tim Green Well thank you for watching! I hope you do get the opportunity for a thru-hike if that is something you desire. You can also break it into sections. Either way, the point is to enjoy the outdoors, which it sounds like you do :)

[@GreencampRhodie]

All positive comments reiterated. THE best kit review I've watched to date. FABULOUS video - great editing and presentation. Valuable after-event real-life factual and truthful experiential information and experience shared in a way that was very personable, approachable, positive, down to earth, no nonsense, MOF, no waffle, logical and organized way - all more than you realise, and more so given this was a very short video in comparison to the value and quantity of info shared. Really like your approach, mindset, attitude, truthfulness and manner. WELL DONE to you, your editor, and all those involved in making you who you are. Hopefully more videos? Thank you for sharing and the time / effort involved. Highest respect, well earned.

[@neilbadger4262]

I wear Salomon too :-) The point you made that you wore your first pair for up to 700 miles approximately helps me massively as I am planning a 1200 mile walk for 2020. The 3 years beforehand are to train and get myself up to fitness. As things stand, I should get through 3 pairs in year 1. Anywho... best of luck on all your future endeavours and you look beautiful in Frog Togs :-)

[@JustinMichels]

I really liked your gear list. Only thing I disagree with are the socks. I've had lots of wool mix socks, a lot. Like a stupid amount. Darn Tough... I can't recommend them. Sure they are lifetime warrantied and you'll need it. I bought 4 pair. 3 have holes in a year. I have patagonia and swartwool over 10 years old that are still functional not as cushy, but still working.

[@silvergmc]

I notice you did a lot of night miles and you mention headlamp quality. Can you tell us what brand you like?

[@t.w.fields8871]

I have watch this video a few times and I still don,t see how you got all that in your backpack. I'm packing for just an overnight camp trip with the Boy Scouts and I have the Ospray 58 liter and just packing a sleeping bag, hammock, a few clothes and a towel I feel overloaded and that is with no food. Man how did you do a thur hike with just a 50 liter bag?

[@1Selous]

mm may be the way your folding & or packing your kit, for starters, seconds the types of kit you have.i.e. fiber pile bag instead of down

[@stephenhiker6385]

you seriously have to look at your gear then...

[@tedclark1263]

I lost a brand new pair of black diamond trekking poles on Katahdin last year😳😳😳.... I figure some Ranger has a nice new set of trekking poles 😂😂

[@BeastCoast357]

You probably got plantar fascitis because you weren't wearing boots. Trail shoes are great for light running, light day hikes, maybe a few days out in a daypack if you have less sensitive feet. But hiking boots have that heavy support for a reason. Its your body weight, plus the pack, and your feet also absorb ground forces and rocky terrain. It pays to wear the heavier, more supportive shoe. I know those Salomon's were 50%, but you may have been more comfortable with an appropriate backpacking shoe.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

+mblader2k3 I suppose we will have to agree to disagree on this one! I actually got tendonitis of the achilles from wearing boots. Boots are too heavy for me, and many other hikers, which is why they make trail runners. The majority of thru-hikers have gotten away from boots. My trail runners were great! I developed plantar fasciitis because the support in my shoes were gone. I wore them for over 700 miles straight. Once I got new trail runners and insoles I was fine. No one pair of shoe (boot or trail runner) is ever recommended for the entire trail. Even though it may not appear worn out, the support goes eventually. So, it is recommended to buy new boots or shoes more than once throughout a thru-hike. I do agree that boots will last more miles than trail runners, but have NEVER heard of plantar fasciitis being a problem simply from wearing trail runners. In fact, most people I know that started with boots swapped to a trail runner before the end, and will never look back. I would definitely recommend salomons to anyone asking about footwear for the Appalachian Trail. If I had continued in the pair of boots I started in, my hike would have been over in Georgia. But, thank you for your comment and for following along!

[@BeastCoast357]

+Homemade Wanderlust It's honestly what ever works for you. If you are more comfortable in trail runners rather than boots, then that is what you need to use for 2000 miles. No point in being uncomfortable just for the sake of "technicality". Just be sure to replace the shoes a bit more often so you are more comfortable! Plantar Fascitis is the absolute worst. Its just that slow, nagging pain, and I try to avoid it like the plague.

[@michaelelder1414]

Thanks for your videos. I have retired early, and trying to get into backpacking again after many many years! I have been building my pack, and you have given me some good tips. But I have already got most of what you have or talked about, but you still have good information. Mike from Seattle. See ya on the trail maybe. :)

[@2CabrasLocas]

Great video. Have you considered an alcohol stove? Less weight, no steel can to carry around. Lighter stove to.

[@michaelsakowich7026]

i took your advice and got trekking poles with cork grips. They are awesome!

[@waynediffin7225]

you cant put a hammock on a mountain.. thats a good reason to go with a tent

[@jasonmcnamara706]

Your vids are the best!! Ive watched all of them in prep for my walk thru....you been so helpful. Thank you, dixie.

[@mtadams2009]

Congratulation on completing the AT great job,

[@sxduranable]

And subscribed!! Thanks for your amazing insight! Hoping to climb Mt. Whitney soon!

[@sospeciallyme9096]

You are now my favourite youtube channel. Love it.

[@jeanettenguyen9344]

Thank you for the great gear review Dixie! It's difficult finding videos of female thru hikers and especially difficult finding advice on the monthly visit from ~Mother Nature~ while on the trail, which has made me hesitant going on extended trips such as the AT. Can you provide any advice or suggestions based on your experience? Thank you :)

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

+Jeanette Nguyen Hey there! Thank you :) I attempted using the Diva Cup, but wasn't in love with it. I used a softer cup, but didn't try it until my first visit from Mother Nature on the trail. So, I would recommend trying out those alternative menstrual devices prior to a hike. I ended up just using conventional methods and keeping an extra ziploc to dispose them in within my ziplock trash bag. So, I just packed it all in and then packed it out. It helps having baby wipes and powder. If you have any other questions, let me know! I will cover this in my e-book, as well. Working on it now :)

[@sawdust6968]

osprey packs RULE!!

[@Steve-hb7dw]

Thanks for the Great Gear Review! Very informative and I love your humorous presentation style! I'm enjoying these "Post Hike" Videos as much as your Hiking ones.. I'm curious how you took care of you're Plantar Fasciitis. Seems I've developed it and there is so much contradictory information on the web. I'm planning on my Thru Hike this coming Spring. I'm a tad older than the majority of folks attempting it (I'll be 61 before my start date) so any info on this from a successful thru hiker would be helpful. It sure hasn't been helping my training much... Thanks again for taking the time to make these videos.. and Thanks to you too Whitney!

[@art-e-mouse6210]

I may have a different perspective on "gear" as I've never done a 'thru-hike'... but one thing I NEVER leave without (even on a day hike) is a proper first aid kit. I don't recall seeing one in your kit? Whadaya do for boo-boos and the like? Something major...???? Jus askin.

[@deerwatcher217]

what would be good to ware i cant ware wool . i ware men's swim shorts in summer dries fast and have a mesh liner no need for underwear

[@Villmark1]

Tracey Allen smart

[@anderskristensen1180]

Hej Dixie. I just stumbled upon your channel, and boy was it a breath og fresh air from alot of the other bs on KZbin. You seriously have lots of terrific content, and it is so nice to see a hiker that seems so relaxed and down to earth. Keep it up :) By the way, churning butter is an excellent expression. It works great in danish to, so I might just steal it ;)

[@kevinbungles]

I have a nordisk telemark 2LW which is great for uk weather only 906gram. You can also get a UL version 850gms

[@XHollisWood]

Excellent prepare check list. Thank you for sharing ♥️ question have you eaten or taken along MRE’s ?!?!?!?! (The newest addition) Thanks 😉

[@jamesmccarson9883]

Have you been asked to give a talk with local outdoors groups about your experiences? Also, did you ever imagine how popular that you have become?

[@plushplums]

Does anyone talk about or have any tips on the exercises or body conditioning you can do months in advance before starting the trail in order to strengthen your back and legs to support the 20lbs of gear you'll be carrying everyday. I know it's advised to put on weight but also what would help strengthen weak back and legs muscles to make it less painful and more comfortable in carrying your pack.