Kit Review | Ex-Royal Marines Overnighter | 4 Day UK Winter Trek with Wild Camping

[@SeanHendy]

Nick, ex Army Capt and Expedition leader. I commend you on your honesty and humility which adds significant value to this video for your viewers. A very insightful review of your kit and experience on the South Downs. I can certainly attest to the difference time (years) makes when putting a pack back on and hitting the trail, knowing the kinds of weights we used to carry when serving. For example, when considering the whole 'ultra light' movement and the competition to get the lightest pack possible often disregarding what you actually need to support yourself on a trek, it makes me smile when I think that the rifle alone was 5.5kg, plus ammo, plus radio and batteries, plus helmet, and that's all before even considering all the basics of water, food, cooking kit etc. One of the common mistakes I see, which you have identified in this video, is excess gear especially fire lighting. A lighter, and one spare as a back up, is about all you need, yet some will have a firelighting kit with half a dozen different methods thinking they need to have it all with them. Looking forward to hearing what sounds like exciting news in the near future. Great content as ever. All the very best.

[@johncrouch8988]

Thank you for your service guys. 🇬🇧👋🏻

[@SeanHendy]

@Uther Petersen wow, not judgemental much are you? prick. Fyi, Dad was raised in a children's home, joined the Army at 16 and did well. As for myself, educated in Army schools, equivalent to state comprehensives, managed to get to Uni and get a degree. Not a Rolls in sight, at least not on the pavement outside my Dad's army married quarter! As for Ops, I spent about 3.5 years on operations in total and came away with PTSD as a freebie. So whatever chip you've got on your shoulder, try brushing it off instead of taking to writing unwarranted insulting comments on what is an excellent channel.

[@seanr2968]

Thanks for the great videos, Nick - really enjoying them. I think I detect a pattern of overloading I've struggled with myself! In my 20's I could chuck on belt kit and a huge bergen, carrying squaddie-proof kit which was great but weighed a ton. In my 40s (and now 50s), I'm horrified by how little I can carry and still stay comfortable. The temptation is to resist this reality, but I think we need to embrace it! One example is I now use trekking poles (weird at first but great for going uphills with way less energy - so get used to it😀) and so my tent (a Tarptent Stratospire) is mega light and doesn't need poles - you just use the trekking poles. In a civvy environment you can normally replen water, so I carry 2 litres max and a filter just in case. My bivi bag is now civvy too - much lighter. Take a look at what Al carries @bushmanandblue - really minimal. Luckily, my eldest son is now carrying more of the shared kit and helping his old man out!

[@davehumpleby3440]

I empathise. Getting older is no fun!

[@seanr2968]

@@davehumpleby3440 true, but the alternative isn't great either! There is one important advantage Dave - hopefully we develop greater judgment and wisdom.... albeit from a low start point in my case!

[@andrewnash6121]

@@davehumpleby3440 getting old is a privilege not everyone gets. As long as you adapt then getting old is a lot of fun. You just gotta learn to work smarter. You may lose physical strength but you gain wisdom. Wisdom ultimately always wins. So, getting old is good. Also, make sure all that wisdom doesn't go to waste and try to nurture the next generations. Hopefully they will use it to make a better world.

[@SeanHendy]

@Mark Jeffries or the alternative to a teenager, an alpaca to carry your gear lol.

[@PlayaSinNombre]

“Old age ain’t no place for sissies.”

[@margueritemitchell1829]

Hello from British Columbia Canada 🇨🇦👋👍❤️

[@stuartwarner6719]

Nice review Nick. In addition to my comments you saw on your first video planning the kit, I've got a couple more thoughts for your consideration. You asked about energy savings with trecking poles. I think I've heard some estimate 20% improvement. I think it depends on the terrain. If there's lots of gradients, I think it could be much higher than that. It's not just energy efficiency that is important though, because you can use your arm and chest muscles for climbing and braking, so the fatigue is spread more evenly across your whole body. Efficiency also depends on the conditions underfoot. As you commented, slippery trails are very energy sapping and potentially dangerous. Poles help enormously with stability not only because they are more points of contact, and points spread further away from your center of gravity, but they are relatively sharp points that don't get clagged with mud. You mentioned the rhythm of using the poles - this is absolutely key. Once you get a good rhythm, you forget they are even there and their use becomes second nature. What you will notice though is how they allow you to flow over and around obstacles on the trail more than the stop-start motion of two feet, and it is this ability to preserve momentum that I really love most about poles. Also the table of shame looks even more humiliating when your arms are hanging out of trecking pole straps ;) Just don't buy heavy poles, because you don't want to do weight-lifting unnecessarily. Fizan make light aluminium poles on a budget, and for those looking to invest more, I would recommend Black Diamond carbon poles, though to be honest there are lots of great options these days. As you said, your waterproof jacket needs to be replaced urgently. I would advise against buying a "two-layer" membrane jacket again. I had the same disappointing experience as you with a brand new jacket 25 years ago, though I was nowhere near as lucky with the weather - by the half way mark of the Pennine Way it was already leaking. Regardless of the condition it came to you in, two-layer membrane jackets all wear out very quickly if you are doing long distance with a heavy pack - the inner mesh fabric rubs directly against the waterproof-breathable membrane itself and this friction destroys its functionality surprisingly quickly on the shoulders, back and hips. Two-layer jackets may be fine for skiing and walking with light daysacks, but not for the kind of trip you did. Keep an eye out in the sales for a good lightweight three-layer jacket with pit zips, a peaked hood and preferably mesh chest pockets that can also be used as vents. It's a high-volume product so if you aren't fussy about colour and brand you can pick one up for a really good price. It should last at least 15 yrs. You highlighted that you need to look again at your shelter options. Spraying the flysheet will help the water repellency, but if you test it under a hosepipe and still aren't happy, consider using one of your tarps instead. I'm repeating my earlier thoughts, but you really do not need both a tent and a bivy bag. In the summer, you could carry a light sil-nylon tarp and rig it over the mesh inner tent using your trecking poles to make an elevated A-frame that's off the ground with great ventilation and you can leave the bivvy bag at home. Can you use paracord to suspend the mesh inner-tent (basically a "bug bivvy") under the tarp so you can leave the tent poles at home too? In the winter, you could use the tarp in a V or flying-diamond setup in combination with the bivvy bag (to cut out the cold drafts) and leave the mesh inner tent at home since the mesh is really not giving you any appreciable insulation or wind resistance. Top tip indeed on the boot sizing. I don't remember seeing anything on socks. Did you also use a merino outer sock and a slippery liner sock to reduce friction and therefore hot-spots/blisters? It will take a few trips to dial in how much food and water you need to carry each day, and the ability to predict its availability on the trail will come with experience. It's one of the first things to research when planning a route. I recommend openstreetmap.org because the cycle map layer not only shows gradients and paths, but also has water taps, wells, streams, public toilets, churchyard taps, etc marked on by users (it's open source) and its also a really great resource for building your own strip maps if you are planning your own route that is not a recognized trail or if overseas maps are hard to get hold of. I still don't think you need to carry three different drinking flasks, two of which are metal, but I can see the logic in your winter routine. Personally, I've always just grimmaced, broken the sacred seal and gone outside for waz, because I don't want liquids of any kind anywhere near my down bag. It ain't so bad and I'm asleep again before I know it, but maybe I should look into a system like yours. Not sure I'm the best of shots when I'm half asleep though, so it's deffo a risk! Looking forward to your next trip and the big announcement. 😀

[@bexbugoutsurvivor]

Hi Nick, in reference to you asking about trekking poles in your video, I tend to push both forward at the same time and propel, bit like skiing. You may next time even use your trekking poles in leu of those tent poles ,to support a basha. These days I take next to nothing other than shelter insulation and cook set (pad bag and pot) Sundries= half a tooth brush & travel tooth paste, micro fibre towel, specimen jar of dish soap, torch & lighter & rain togs. (Meds pack now much reduced too) I reverted to trekking logic, Sleep when your tired, eat when hungry, travel light and enjoy the trail. As you probably learned by now, just buy food on route for that particular day, where possible, water is freely available + filter. ATB....bex

[@davehumpleby3440]

Thanks Nick. Always good to know what people carry, what works, what doesn't and what they'd change for next time. I'm a bugger for overloading. No matter what adventure I'm on, I always return with stuff that never came out my bag once! After thousands of trips, you'd think I'd have it down to a fine art, but no. I'm too much of a prepper! Looking forward to your big announcements.

[@matejvanekprivate]

I do not have any calculation how much energy is saved. But walking sticks are necessity for me in uphill & downhill terrain. Specially for my knees. I have to recommended! No pain after a long walk with heavy backpack.

[@MrFruitycakes]

attempted the south downs way, solo (starting in Winchester) last year and failed!! started on the hottest day of the year and only just made it just past cheesefoot before i had drunk all of my 3 litres of water and then fell down a rabbit hole! made the same mistake you did with a pack weight of 16 kg! many a valuable lesson learned! going to attempt again once the path is dry'ish and a much lighter pack! Good luck with your 2022 projects! and would love to come up to hidden valley to refresh my bush-crafting skills!!

[@MrWebbsha]

Dont know how much energy the save as such, but I do know that without them I wouldnt be able to do the hiking I get to do. Living with a really damaged right leg, the sticks make going up and down hills a ton easier then if I didnt use them. They can take a bit of practise, but once sorted they make holding rhythm really easy, and strangely fun.

[@alistairg6770]

I was told by a Dr at the hospital in Fort William that walking poles are a significant cause of shoulder injuries. His view was simple: we walk on two legs and not four! A single pole or stick can be used for fording a stream or if an additional stability point is needed but then put it away.

[@mikel6517]

Agree about a down jacket in uk weather. That’s why I personally don’t use a down bag. Wet and sweat. Tried a down bag more than once because everyone swears by them but every time I have the same problem they some how get damp in the air. I still prefer my issue bag, yes it’s bulky yes it’s heavy but boy I always get a good nights sleep in one and that’s important for my next days travel and well-being.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

The old issued ‘green maggot’ had the same problem :)

[@mikel6517]

Still warm though and it dried quickly

[@moorshound3243]

I agree however I did love my old 58 maggot always had a great night's kip even when sleeping in a bog because the bottom was waterproof canvas.

[@mikel6517]

@@moorshound3243 agree but was it true were they cheap chicken feathers 🐣

[@Squirrel200]

I love your down to earth / old school Approach! Thank you from a old lady solo explorer of the Amazon . love your work 🤗🤗 hugs

[@ianstewart2335]

I used to scoff at the poles until I tried them… in Scotland. Instant convert. If you can March, you can use poles correctly! No tick tocking! 👍🏻🤣👍🏻

[@earlshaner4441]

Good morning brother from Syracuse NY USA brother thank you for sharing your adventures

[@calneitz3681]

Thank you for the tips,I'm retired Canadian living in foothills of the rockies. I also use a welding pad in my gear.Very comfortable to sit on when in snow covered logs and such and all you need to do is hang it right beside fire for quick drying as its fireproof then using as a warm pad to put in sleeping bag.I got mine on amazon and it is very light weight ,thick ,fireproof and a quick way to keep dry when stopping and having a sit on the trail.

[@arthurwestcott5437]

I was having a good chuckle at some of what you took. Been there. Done that etc. But when you pulled out that Cyalume, I honestly just lost it! It's curious how things change, and how time and injury take their toll. But it's worth all the effort of re-learning. Not least because you can justify some shiny new kit purchases along the way. Re - dry bags. Top tip for me was using a permanent marker with a wide tip and writing directly on them. Because weirdly, despite the fact that when I used only black or dpm bags I always knew what went where. Once I switched to civilian life, and bought a heap of brightly coloured options instead, I was constantly forgetting what I had put in each bag. Great news about the projects ahead. Looking forward to seeing them unfold.

[@marksadventures3889]

Good luck with the TV thing. I don't watch TV much, KZbin is my TV really. Good advise Nick, I think you have to take too much to know what you don't need.

[@ianmurray4081]

Awesome video per usual. A very honest break down of kit. Don’t expect perfection, seek improvement each time. Take care and stay frosty. 🌲🇨🇦🏕🇬🇧🌲

[@macdonaldsadler]

Poles are amazing nick. I can't remember the amount of weight, and energy they help with. But a lot use them incorrectly, and you can end up looking like a four legged drunk spider. Your hand goes up from under the loop, then down so the loop is between your thumb and index finger. This means the weight goes through the strap, rather than trying to grab the handle really hard, or pushing down onto of the pole. They once used to them are really relaxing to use and do make a difference with practice. 😊

[@R33CO]

I think if we are all honest, we all take too much kit with us until we figure out what is or isn't needed. Good to see what the thoughts of a Royal Marine regarding kit. Good Luck with whatever is coming your way, as you and all our finest and bravest deserve all the good things in life. ATB Reeco x

[@maryhairy1]

Thx for your post hike analysis! Delightful jacket the wind stopper & backpack. Most rain shields for the backpack have disappointed me, by always allowing the contents in my pack to get wet. As I discovered when I was first here on a hike when my sleeping bag was drenched! Doing that 312mi walk over 13 days I packed dehydrated food - meat, macaroni, 2 veg, mixture of seasonings, fruit, sweets. (My diet was sanctioned by my doctor.) One days ration was 650g. It was a boring existence but it worked with minimal cooking fuss after a long 50km walking day. My training weight for this one was 18kg but when finally packed was 16kg. I’m only 1.7m

[@Soulcaresser]

Thank you again Nick for your honest review of the products you use. What i really like about your channel are those excellent tips and information you give about the time you served in the military. But also how to use that in everyday outdoor. Not to mention all those cool little gadgets like splash maps. Not everybody can by alot of stuff. And when people are seeking information and or advice of the things they want to buy. Your channel gives them some nice alternatives and the information you need without alot of fuss. And i really hope your channel grows even more, as you deserve that!

[@fatt0x]

Looking forward to seeing you go at it again! Always enjoy your videos.

[@trevorday7979]

Great debrief Nick. Important to review what went well and not quite so well for continued improvement. As always, great delivery of the content including dance moves with the Gore-Tex duds. 😂😂 Top stuff mate. Looking forward to the next one. Cheers mate. 👍💪🇦🇺

[@trekmate1]

Great vid Nick. Thanks! Walking poles - take strain off of knees and hips when going up & down hills, help with balance on slippery/uneven surfaces and something to lean on when taking a break. I couldn't continue with trekking without mine. The last one was through the Gorkha region of Nepal, about 8000m of ascent & descent. I'm 65 in a few weeks and did too much road-running in my misspent youth! I'd say worth persevering with in prep for advancing years!! ;-)

[@isobelholland8552]

@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 I agree totally with Trekmate1 - get used to poles now and your knees will thank you later.

[@trekmate1]

@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Do it! Great mountains & trails, plus the most amazing people once you're out of Kathmandu!

[@darthsarcastus1064]

Your point on the footwear is well placed, I've always been an 8M boot with the old issued boots, when Altberg took over the contract I found, to my detriment, that 8M was not my best fit for a 12 mile tab. I was literally in agony from mile 3 to mile 8 when I sacked it! Being an old and bold soldier I try, desperately, to keep up with the youngsters. I now go size 8.5M or 9M in all the issue boots I get. Not had the privilege of walking in AKU's yet, will reserve judgement.

[@jakepyett2256]

Hey Nick, I hope you’re doing well! It’s been so good seeing how your trip went and your thoughts on kit. I’ve recently picked up a rucksack and just started getting outside, and your bushcraft videos have been a great source of guidance. I’d love to do a challenge like this, and I think I’m just going to get something planned and go for it. The South Downs Way looks like a beautiful hike and a great challenge, I hope you get to have your cigar and claim victory on the trail soon!!

[@stevenkeithley4336]

Love the videos keep em coming bud. Hope you and your family are doing great. Stay safe and be well Nick. Strength and Honor...

[@2secondslater]

Heya from Australia mate, I have a tip, don't use a thermos overnight, use an uninsulated flask and fill it with hot water, place it down near your feet when you get into your bag and it will keep your feet toasty warm until you need to drink it, when you do drink it, it should still be at or above body temperature.

[@craig6542]

Hi Nick, I was going to comment on the previous video about the issue of blisters!! A product I have used with great success are the Compeed blister patches they are fairly dear at around £6.99 however money worth spending to walk free from pain and whilst it's on the blister heals also. The heel ones are particularly good as they stay stuck on untill you take it off, doesn't get caught on socks and ripped off etc. Thank you for the videos, I Always Learn something.

[@slippery999]

I know you’re an ex bootneck and used to carrying big weights but now you’re out you don’t need to anymore. Many years ago I took some mates camping in Wales. I used my old army bergen, some mess tins, water bottle and some civy stuff, up until then I hadn’t done any wild camping only day walks or car camping. I couldn’t understand why my bergen weighed so much +/- 20kg I didn’t have that much in the way of extra or unnecessary kit I actually thought my mates had hidden bricks in my pack so when I got home I weighed everything individually. It was a revelation: my bergen weighed 2.8 kg empty, my sleeping bag was 1.7kg, my tent was 3.4kg (although split between two) plus all the other little bits and bobs all added up. Since then I have looked at lighter options and whilst I’m not at the cutting all the labels out of clothing, chopping off toothbrush handles to lighten my base weight stage the gear I carry now is a fraction of that original weight. Everything weighs something and if you have the mindset that “this hardly weighs anything so I’ll put it in” pretty soon all those little things that hardly weigh anything all add up to quite a lot. People also pack their fears; fear of being too cold, too hungry, too thirsty and so over compensate with their gear packing. It’s great that you did a review of your kit and assess what worked and what didn’t, a useful exercise is look at what kit wasn’t used and leave it out next time (NOT emergency kit obviously).

[@HooHikers]

Great review Nick, you asked about walking poles, I use these all the time and they really do help, pushing up hills, steadying you down hill and taking a lot of strain off the knees, can’t give u a % of how much only I notice the effort required if I’m not using them. I’m going to do a short video at some point on how to use poles but there’s also a shed load of vids on this subject too…. Loved the sheep noises and might get the team doing this on the next exped……. If you get chance have a look at our channel Hoo Hikers as your tips and comments could be very helpful. Keep up the great work 😎👍🏻

[@karl76uk]

Excellent video !

[@KurttankT]

As we say in Norfolk ‘ keep you a going boy’ 😁

[@MrBizfit]

Hey Nick great channel! Much appreciate your work. Poles save the most wear and tear on the downhills. It’s a bit of physics, Mass x acceleration. The total load of pack and body weight is magnified greatly onto one leg each stride. Redirecting some load into the upper body instead by using poles adds up significantly over multi day trip. I’m no physicist but I did stay in a Holiday Inn Express last night! 😹👍💪🥾

[@timmusic7674]

nice one Nick keep up the videos mate

[@andyc3088]

5 litres of water is 11lbs or 4.9kgs that's quiet a heavy lot to carry around. The main benefits of walking/treking poles is they help, take the load off your knees. Your knees are used to your body weight but adding extra weight on your back doesn't help them. So you they need some help and that's were the poles come into effect. They do take a bit of getting used to, and not everyone gets the hang of them. When your packing for a long trek layout your kit a couple of days beforehand. And each item think 'Do I really need it'? If the answer is no or maybe don't take it, you have to be ruthless in this. Take items that can double up in useage for example toilet roll, can be used as a pillow. A pair of socks can be used as gloves, if you lose your gloves. I did the Lejog in 2018, by the time I got to Bath i had emptied a 1/3 of my pack. By the time I got to York i had emptied 1/2 my pack. By the time got to Glasgow I was down to the bear essentials. You can get the normal Harvey Maps, they are all waterproof and biodegradable so if you lose your map it will rot away without trace.

[@joepublic573]

hi nick. really enjoying the retro's that you have been doing; what worked for you, what didn't; etc. gives a nice perspective on your trips, regardless of outcome. i would say, generally, we all take too much with us .. with the "what if" attitude... loved the raincover idea (never actually thought about it - lol) atb.

[@darriendastar3941]

That was a comprehensive and useful de-brief. Thank you. Glad 2022 is looking good for you - you deserve it.

[@kevinstrong1639]

Brilliant video, very informative 👍

[@petezahrbock9931]

Great video Nick. Keep up the awesome work!! Pete from Minnesota.

[@sng2225]

I have been waiting for this with anticipation. But will wait until I can savour it over a nice brew 👍. I have already liked as I know I will.

[@badbadger8002]

Love these videos. Especially happy that you take time to break down what kit you bring, why, and where you stow it. Invaluable for amateurs like me to emulate. Also so impressed that you guys decided against pushing on to destruction and made the responsible choice about where to call it a day on the 160k trek. Makes me feel much better about not finishing the West Highland Way in Scotland a few years ago. Brilliant, and more importantly, honest stuff. Please keep it up!

[@soggz4246]

Great vid. Looks like you had enough kit for a fortnight! Stay well.👍🏾🇬🇧

[@russeljohn3471]

Always interesting to see what does and doesn't work. Thanks Nick. Regards Russ

[@chrismahon7977]

As always well presented and informative. So easy to over pack, we’ve all done it .

[@duncys]

Cheers Nick glad you got on ok with the windproof. I dont find mines that warm but when moving its quite good. Be good to see the differenc in weight after your kit ditch.

[@jelkel25]

Was out Sat/Sun and the weather did for me on the Saturday and I was hardly in a challenging landscape. Heavy rain followed by cold wind it sapped the warmth from me, bit of a long walk home. Learned from it and it wasn't as bad on the Sunday.

[@cliveramsbotty6077]

Hiking poles... Never made sense to me until a good mate gave me a proper lesson in how to use them. When your left leg steps forward the right hand pole moves in tandem with it, lifting and landing at the same time as your foot does, same with the other leg on the next stride. The pole should land in line with the heel of the opposite foot, no further forward than that. When you get it right it feels almost as if you're dragging the poles along behind you. The length of the poles should be set to have your elbow at a 90 degree angle when holding them.

[@williamstewart888]

Cheers,and nice one (haven't been around for ages) that, as others have said, you remain honest,and for the beard!! Merci! M8!!

[@normanscout1864]

Excellent video just goes to show the kit that you don't need the weight all mounts up , I use a hammock and tarp for camping I find it's a lot lighter but everyone is different great advice as always thanks for sharing ♠️

[@M_Bamboozled]

"I had a weapons cleaning pouch for the light machine gun..." Ha, ha, I was listening in audio only and my first thought was "blimey, the South Downs have got a lot rougher since I last visited!"

[@rufasgutz7656]

Awesome breakdown brother. We all think of the RM's as these super heros (which you are ) but its great to see you are human to brother, thanks for the information and inspiration. Kia Kaha brother.

[@BosvarkDelra]

Really enjoying the channel Ex SADF never had to operate in the cold Now living in Ireland Great info on here for me to get into the different environment here

[@h.bsfaithfulservant4136]

Thanks Nick. It’s a credit to you that you owned up to some errors with some of your kit choices 👍. It will make it easier for me when I make a pig’s ear with my gear selection 😉😀. But it’s never a mistake to carry donuts 🍩 though is it? I mean, they weigh almost nothing !? 🤣😋

[@bushcraftbasics2036]

Donuts have many ultra light principles. High calorie to weight ratio. Don't weigh much. And like they were designed by a gram counting ultralighter, they have the middle punched out. Here in Canada we have Timbits which are basically "donut holes" and they are best to carry as logically holes weigh nothing.

[@h.bsfaithfulservant4136]

@@bushcraftbasics2036 🤣😂😅😆…all very excellent points! So, if I eat the donuts before I leave, and take the Timbits with me, I’m on to a complete winner 🤗. Thanks so much, I donut think 💭 I can go wrong!

[@bushcraftbasics2036]

@@h.bsfaithfulservant4136 Glad to help.

[@vikingbushcraft1911]

Excellent vid as always 👍 - although at 15:49 you sure that’s your toothbrush? 😉🤔🤣

[@shaneowen4177]

I love that you give links to to the gear your your talking about, really handy

[@jonbridge8064]

Always a balance between the walking comfort of a light pack Vs having what you need when/if you need it. Great video Nick!

[@joeydr1497]

I don’t know how much the poles help with energy but they definitely save the knees on the down hills.

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

Great Video as always Turning to the coat, a Paramo coat/jacket. Teamed up with Nikwax they were developed together Fantastic gear, my Fleece is still functioning well and I’ve had it since 1999

[@piotrswiezynski2025]

also the sticks help U keep the correct posture while walking with a backpack and helps a lot in slippery condition like clay path after rain... proper ''nordic walking'' requires a training and right high sticks

[@larrysheedy4293]

I think that hiking sticks are very important for many reasons. I would say after water they are the most important item I carry they reduce my energy consumption 5-10% each time I use them% also very handy to have when I’m going through ice, sideways on slops n for additional support or as a peg or post. Very good item to have along.

[@muskett4108]

Love the transition from Military Kit to Civi Leisure Kit/mentality; just different worlds. The latter is about enjoyment as shown by how appealing going "Ultra Light" is. Often UL kit is expensive and not very robust, but this is premium leisure time, not work. The difference between Bushcraft and Rambling too, the later is about foot tread damage limitation as foot fall is so high on the popular routes. Heck, a Survival Tin is to many OTT as the "adventure risk" has been very much reduced. An open fire a no no, unless fire pit is supplied at designated site. No Silkey Saw either. Different sports. I'm still a believer in big basic bergen full of air, than tying bits to the outside of a too small a sack. But then I like water bottles over bladders. The Grails Water Purifier and a Titanium bottles can do the water supply in wet areas. All good fun.

[@miquelbech5580]

This was really interesting and useful. Great concept. As for your question about trekking poles, I am a huge fan of them. However, I only use one and only use it to assist when walking up and down or when my balance is being challenged. I don't use them when just walking as I find myself tiring much faster when doing so.

[@billjames3148]

Thanks so much for the AAR on what you used and did not use. So I'm rearranging my bag again. Need to find the night time pee bag Will use the Kelly Kettle this trip. The gortex,coated,plastic gear I have is all gone now due to breaking,flaking off, and un-gluing of the seams. Trick: use antiperspirant on your dry feet before the socks. Works great with rubber boots. Great info on your trip, where to next ? Ben Nevis, Highlands of Scotland , Wales. Enjoy

[@DavidKD2050]

No idea how much energy poles save but I wouldn’t go without them. They save my knees simply by virtue of my upper body taking a significant proportion of the weight. Yes there’s a rhythm to their use and they are a pain when stopping to do things however still worth it by a huge margin.

[@sarahsue42]

Trekking poles save your joints going downhill more than going up.. I've seen a few videos on KZbin about the most efficient ways to use them. Waterproofing your flysheet is your job not the manufacturers unless you're using a fabric like dyneema that doesn't absorb water

[@bushcrafters3909]

You did well to learn some of the weight issues in the colder temps. Summer brings on the mosquito and what seems to be more water issues. My elementary teacher told me when I said "wait" he said "weight is what broke the bridge". No joke. Glad you went out.

[@andrewscrivens9586]

Another great vid....fully get the overloading thing as that's usually my downfall! However, that's not to say under different circumstances you may have been thankful if that kit!

[@TomasPiliponis]

Great stuff, thank you for all practical insights! Extremely valuable content here.

[@maverickrodriguez7213]

Trek pole do save time but they can also slow you down. You need to know when to use them, uphill, downhill, rugged terrain. The idea is to push you forward slightly as if you were skiing. Because your hip flexers can hold that much when you rest slight weight into the pole and arm. Kind of how you use the elliptical machine at the gym. I have rucked in the military full load and also done civilian backpacking. Trekking poles save your energy in the long run and delays ur exhaustion by the end of the day.

[@nigelgregory4777]

Hi Nick, another great presentation, good to see someone say they took too much, for me the difference between going to the woods for a few days and hiking is mobility, In the woods making cordage or a basket you can afford a few luxury items, hiking is a different ball game, go minimal go light, plan and pack daily food like a rat pack, and research your intended route, like you said you carried too much water and don't think the things you say weigh next to nothing, weigh nothing, put them altogether and then weigh them, if you had not packed the things you say you could do without, kit, food, water, I'm betting you would have hit your intended pack weight. Once again great stuff and a good watch, take care. Nige 👍 👍 ☕

[@davidcann6021]

Thanks Nick, great to see what did and didn't work :) I think one thing when packing is where you are coming at this from a military, bushcraft and hiking background is you can end up packing a bit from each area? As it's miserable out today I'm going through my gear and honestly there's so much doesn't get used on trips but it's a nice to have. Certainly wouldn't ever wayt to go ultralight though.

[@SingleMaltSmash]

been using hiking sticks for years. Definately notice a difference on the amount of wear and tear on joints, better balance *injury prevention*, great for moving branches out of the way or testing the depth of rivers/puddles, and can really power up steel trails with ease. rhythm is something u fall into after using them a few times, u learn what works and what doesn't. just try not to think about them and I find that helps. I hear they're hard for videographers to use tho, because your one hand is usually full. even using one tho, it's a decent hiking stick

[@jimmybrooks1059]

Nick, great vid mate 👍 Knowledge learned and shared is what makes any endeavor possible, success is based on putting that knowledge to use and practicing those lessons learned. Thanks Nick.

[@kokopelauwebb5731]

Nick, I'm not a pro by any means but a couple of videos that helped me when using tracking poles are as follows: How to use trekking poles like a pro - 7 tips by ALinsdau, he is a polar explorer among other things. How to use trekking poles the proper, improper, and... my way by Follow Bigfoot How to use trekking poles (like a boss ) by Chase Mountains. None of these are in any particular order but I have found the information consistent and useful for me. The biggest thing you need to do is make sure you have the height adjustment correctly for whether you're hiking level, up, or downhill and of course practice until you're somewhat good. Just like when you first learned how to use a knife, or a rifle, or anything else.

[@bigbill74scots]

Top vid mate, I do the same with the water overkill as I'm a bit of a sweat monster so I need to train myself not to be setting off like I'm in competition with the water board. Respect from one veteran to another. 👍

[@paulpotter7380]

I always overload and have to pack several times. I get through a lot of water so always carry a filter as I cannot carry enough water for a hot Summer's day, and can even get through 2-3 litres on a Winter's day. Almost all of my 'just in case' stuff has been used, usually by other people that were not carrying spare/emergency kit. I use poles all the time. Helps with stability as my knees are knackered. Can't state how much load they take but if you are using they correctly you will feel the pump in your arms. I wouldn't be surprised if 20% of my power comes from the poles. Very useful in muddy conditions.

[@stetomlinson3146]

Just thought of a tip I learned on my C2C, for anyone doing a through hike. If, like I did, you do pack too much kit and find yourself carrying stuff around the countryside, find a handy Post Office and post home any surplus kit. They have sealable bags, bubble wrap and all you need to get rid of extra weight. Most long walks will go through, in The UK, or near to a village Post Office.

[@piotrswiezynski2025]

hi friend U need some thin cotton fabrick polypropylene garden cover iron and a few flat boards. put a board on the table then the jacket polypropylene and the cotton fabrick on top iron sloooww on high temp schould repair the membrane Im using that kind of methods for 23 years now and it always worked... heh living chip forces person to repair things a lot...

[@paulfranks195]

Its a big man that shares his failures. Excellent advice as always. Keep it coming Nick.

[@andrewnash6121]

In general, try not to sleep with your phone near you. The radio waves it gives off can be really bad for your health. However, I suppose you were probably trying to keep it from freezing and also trying to keep it handy in the event of an emergency. Cheers!

[@AndysEastCoastAdventures]

I was always an avid fan of military style kit but this last year I've been converting to ultralight and it makes such a difference on multi day thru-hikes. The weight saving makes it much easier to traverse hills and rough ground. I made the mistake of trying to carry too heavy kit on a coast to coast trek. Weather didn't help, May but was more like Febuary so had to go with winter kit. It was far too heavy. This, hills plus rough ground and my feet ended up in a poor shape so had to call it off. Going back in June to try again with very valuable lessons learned!

[@johnnyg6380]

Try an Alton Goods light weight tarp. They're pretty good. Thanks for the vid 👍

[@vi0205]

Love your videos! Thank you for showing!

[@stetomlinson3146]

Do you ever consider a Buffalo Shirt? I love mine. I’ve got the Active and Active light versions. I never use/wear anything else when walking. I’ve done 2Coast to Coats in it, plus other multi and single day walks. I think it’s the best outdoor kit you can buy. None of that layering palaver! 😄

[@tedsemonis7905]

Walking Sticks as you showed in the right position relieve back pressure and keep your back straight. A single staff that I use keeps me balanced going up but especially going down. Keep weight over my feet, back straight and don't get that lower back pain.

[@stuffthings3481]

Of topic but would u ever a a vid about identifying different trees and their useike birch taping or best for making mallets etc. Brill vid as always

[@barryconway]

Thanks, for the review. I personally value that whole "what worked, what didn't work" type of review over and above "what am I taking with me?" - not to say that both aren't useful! Must get me some of those softies/warmers but (sadly) with the demise of physical WD Surplus shops (round my patch, at least), it's down to online - and when it comes to finding what fits, online just don't cut it! Mission for Spring/Summer - some random motorcycle ride-outs which (coincidentally) take in some of the remaining physical surplus stores! Any recommendations welcomed!

[@TonyTooTuff]

A friend taught me that regarding packs, ounces grow to pounds and pounds equal pain over distance.

[@shabingly]

Website lighterpack is useful for seeing where your pack-weight is going. Bit nerdy and my wife always wonders why the scales are up in the loft with all my camping bits, but it's worth even just whacking in manufacturers weights.

[@shabingly]

@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 I saw your kit shelves, don't tell me you ain't nerdy 😂 Hats off though, I doubt I'd do half the first day you two did with the pack-weight you had on. I doubt I could've picked the ruddy thing up.

[@SketchieRecordsUK]

the hot water and pee bottle routine is a top tip! . I'm thinking I might get a couple of those splashmaps after watching how useful they were. .Great work bud!✊

[@journeyman7189]

Great breakdown Nick. Would have been an idea to weigh your ruck before water and food and then weigh out what you would have taken out to see what could have been the difference. I think one of the major issues, and one I struggle with constantly, is what is your mission? Are you trying to cover distance or are you trying to be prepared for it all? To very different load outs. Nate

[@blablabla2530]

For clay and mossy patches i use. Just ice yaktrac under my shoes.

[@heyjoeaitken]

Great. Looking forward to attempt 2.

[@andrewnash6121]

Also, I have purchased a Swagman Roll from Helikon-Tex. I wasn't going to but after some more research I was very impressed with its functionality. I am looking forward to pairing that with with my Honcho Poncho from Therm-a-Rest, my Anorak No. 8 from Fjallraven and my generic hooded tactical fleece from Amazon. I also have a tactical rain poncho from Onetigris. I am hoping this system will work well together for just about any kind of weather in terms of clothing and worst case shelter. I also purchased Helikon-Tex's Essential Kitbag so I am looking forward to trying that out too. I am thinking of using it as primarily a firecraft kit but also a kit that I can use for smaller hikes that will store any essential gear for the wilderness. This could be useful in situations where I want to make camp and leave my main pack behind and then go for a hike with the Essential Kitbag - allowing me to do things like boil water, put up a tarp, administer very basic first aid and navigate while on a small scouting hike. This could be useful for exploring. Anyways, cheers and thanks for the content.

[@joshwagner4368]

You will not regret the Swagman, it is a fabulous bit of kit. I loved the old poncho liner as much as any other ground pounder, but the Swagman is a step up. Being able to wear it with the poncho and having the zip to use it as a makeshift sleeping bag make it much more functional than the traditional liner.

[@andrewnash6121]

@@joshwagner4368 thanks. I am looking forward to trying it all out together and also on its own. I love kit that can be combined with other bits of kit but also used independently. Also, items that can do more than one thing help save on space and weight and can be used as backups if something breaks or is lost.

[@basilwatson1]

I just wrote about the same thing ... 1 tigres poncho swagman roll ! ..

[@suecharnock9369]

with regards to the walking poles, I have been told that using them takes about 30 -35% of the pressure off your legs, and knees in particular.

[@freddyoutdoors]

Great stuff I'll be taken on board and thinking about my pack cheers nick

[@danielackerley9957]

I've found when walking with poles you don't ever feel any energy saving. just once you've practised you can move quicker and smoother, all the slips slides and wobbles you get with a big heavy pack go away. And you feel less of the 'someone putting the breaks on' feeling when you hit an incline.

[@phuaphua4301]

OMG so many stuff, Great video, 👍