5 Things I REFUSE TO CARRY as an Ultralight Backpacker

Backpacking gear I refuse to carry as an ultralight hiker. Ultralight backpacking.
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BIG FOUR 🤘
Backpack: ula-equipment.9xrw.net/x9oX1x
My FAVORITE Tent: zpacks.com/products/plexsolo-...
Gossamer Gear Tent: www.avantlink.com/click.php?t...
Sleeping Quilt:
Sleeping Pad: amzn.to/35rlMIw
OTHER SLEEPING STUFF 💤
Pillow: amzn.to/3he3mgX
Groundsheet:
FOOD & WATER 🍴
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Stove: amzn.to/3simgd1
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Spork: amzn.to/3shROja
Water Storage: amzn.to/3sinBk3
Food Bag:
Spice Container: amzn.to/3LZ2ISz
CLOTHING 👔
Sun Hoody: www.avantlink.com/click.php?t...
Shorts: amzn.to/3sdiQrL
Socks: amzn.to/3M2nPUi
Rain Jacket: amzn.to/3JPMBoy
Down Jacket: amzn.to/3UrHG2Q
Base Layer Bottom: www.avantlink.com/click.php?t...
Base Layer Top: www.avantlink.com/click.php?t...
Shoes: www.avantlink.com/click.php?t...
ELECTRONICS 🔌
Power Bank: amzn.to/3t4fDds
Headlamp: amzn.to/3M9yrke
Wall Plug: amzn.to/3pa3JNJ
Electronics Bag:
MISCELLANEOUS 🤘
Trekking Poles: amzn.to/3hqT39n
Pack Liner: www.avantlink.com/click.php?t...
Ultralight Knife: amzn.to/3t0m3dL
Ditty Bag:
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Shoulder Pocket for Backpack: ula-equipment.9xrw.net/kjAQm0
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Backpacking gear. Ultralight backpacking. Ultralight backpacking gear

[@KyleHatesHiking]

If you SMASH subscribe you instantly lose 5lbs off your base weight. Only if you smash it tho

[@acaciagomez9782]

Smashed 😘

[@KyleHatesHiking]

@@acaciagomez9782 thank you!!

[@whatkjsaw4461]

Yeah I hope you get more subscribers, maybe try a collaboration vid for a name drop?

[@chaseadventures]

Smashhhhh

[@whatkjsaw4461]

5lbs off my butt please

[@theamericanhiker9655]

My luxury item I always carry is a cinder block that way I can prop my feet up and drink my pbr after a long day! And I refuse to use a pack. If I can’t carry it I don’t need it.

[@woodchip2782]

😂😂😂

[@garywheeler2055]

That is too funny !!!

[@jeremyjames2643]

Awe man here I was hiking with my jansport backpack thinking I’m the 💩

[@joshualautenschlager3616]

Spoken like a true American hiker… amen brother!

[@nickdarr7328]

I juggle all my items. Tie up canned food in extra clothes and juggle so I'm only holding one item per hand at a time. It's very efficient

[@geraldreeves9264]

I save weight by dehydrating my water. Just boil as much down as you want. Then later, at camp, just re-hydrate it with the same amount you started with. So simple.

[@whodey2112]

Just use dehydrated water tablets. Much easier than boiling and rehydrating.

[@geraldreeves9264]

@@whodey2112 true, but more expensive. Plus when I do it myself I’m assured that my water is organic and non GMO.

[@cynthiabehr1870]

Lol

[@asht.7640]

😂

[@Andreas-ni2lt]

I do this all the time. Then I figured I could cut my water bottles in half. Saved me another 2 oz

[@michelstronguin6974]

The pro move in the rain is to use an umbrella while wearing an ultra breathable wind jacket instead of going with no umbrella and using a rain jacket. The new Nebo windbreaker weighs 4 ounces, and a rain jacket weighs double. That covers the weight cost of the umbrella, and you benefit by hiking comfortably in something that breathes instead of a rain jacket which suffocates your skin, you sweat so much in it that you get wet anyway. Breathability is key. Not to mention that you gain sun protection when you need it. Plus I heard people use it to collect water during a rainy day by placing the umbrella upside down on the ground next to your tent. It has other uses too I’m sure, but that’s all I know about.

[@ArcaneSpells]

As a woman, extra clean underwear is one of my “luxury” items that I consider well worth it. Also, shocked you didn’t mention a camp chair, but we all knew that anyway 🤣

[@geauxhiking]

same and same 🤣🤣

[@jackeddemon]

I don’t carry a tent. Who’s the boss now, Kyle

[@dangaspar1707]

🤣

[@angryweasel]

I bought tent poles to convert my duplex into a freestanding tent for a biking trip (no hiking poles) last year, and I ended up liking them enough to bring then along for a few backpacking trips this summer, and I'm kind of hooked. It *is* an extra 11 ounces, but I'm ok with that for now.

[@BigCountryOutdoors325]

I have the SnowPeak umbrella and it’s pretty awesome. It compacts down much smaller (about 8” vs 20”+)than all of the other ultralight umbrellas on the market. What makes it so much lighter is, that it doesn’t have a mechanism that automatically expands it into a locked position. Once you expand it, you then have to “lock” each spine into position (takes a couple seconds). IMO the compactness of it is what definitely sold me on it. It would literally fit into the back pocket of a pair of jeans.

[@bearanoia673]

Happy to hear you admit the whole 'gaiters in the desert' thing - once upon a time, I learned about it the hard way too. Dirty Girl gaiters are the best out west! 😉🐻

[@deadgirlwalking4354]

As a woman nothing prepared me for the first one being underwear 💀💀💀 the horror on my face was real

[@matthewhayes4194]

So the camp chair is a definite "Yes!" Cool.

[@primitiveanxiety7135]

Sick of these pampered ultralight backpackers spending way too much money on gear. I carry nothing but food and a black contractor bag, which doubles as my shelter and sleeping bag. Whole load-out costs $1

[@KyleHatesHiking]

This is the way

[@E_Clampus_Vitus]

When hiking in cold heavy rain, the water dripping off your rain jacket robs you of heat over time. An umbrella can greatly reduce the amount of water that hits you. Wind can for sure be an issue though. I use my umbrella for wind and splash protection while tarp camping. It also works as a wonderful frame to support bug netting for an improvised bivy. Many uses.

[@briankramer3273]

You can get a free standing tent that is less than a pound difference of a trekking pole tent. And a quick dry undershorts and a pair of socks probably only way a couple ounces so all in all you have maybe a pound more you'd be carrying and at the end of the day you're not going to be any less tired or more energetic and that pound but you might have more comfort. I've never considered a umbrella nor do I wear Gators but a headlamp is essential. Find the biggest area where weight is a problem for me is food. I pretty much stick to freeze dried backpacking meals but then when you start adding trail mix, dried fruit, jerky and things like that it really adds up the weight.

[@spuriouseffect]

Merry Poppins has been my trail name several times. When you look at the expressions of people with hoods cinched up around their faces, sweating their clothes wet even though it's cool outside, and they look at you with contempt while you're happy and dry under your umbrella, you cannot help but sing...."A spoon full of sugar makes the medicine go down, in the most delightful wayyyyyy!" Followed by.... "ha ha".

[@Casual_BackPacking]

The umbrella has many uses , sun rain, catching that sweet delicious rain water 💧 😋, wind shield for the stove , scarring bears 🐻 , it's made out of carbon fiber so it's really strong, huge fan

[@chriseidam7319]

Wait - if you carry an umbrella, why do you need to carry a huge fan, too?

[@primitiveanxiety7135]

@@chriseidam7319 the huge fan is used to dry the umbrella after it rains. My huge fan only weighs 8lbs

[@lioneljonson161]

@@chriseidam7319 Damn. Came here to say that.

[@chriseidam7319]

@@primitiveanxiety7135 , Ahhh. You have one of those Gossamer Gear ultralight fans. That changes the dynamics. Good on you.

[@chriseidam7319]

@@lioneljonson161 Yeah, that comment was begging for that joke. Somebody was bound to strike first.

[@platesweightspeaks]

Lol me and my vag could never hike without underwear 😆 I would be to worried about a UTI or other infection if I had the same sweaty, dirty fabric on everyday. Not an experience I would want on trail. I'm adopting Dixie's method of two pairs, and flip them inside out the second day you wear them.

[@toocleanpappas5397]

The AT. PCT (It never rains on the PCT so it's just for sun), and CDT aren't really where umbrella's shine. The desert sections are for sure nice to have them. But last year when I hiked across Ireland, and Scotland, the umbrella was amazing for 4 months of rain. And then when I hiked across Spain in 2 weeks of 100+ degree and the other weeks in the 90's that umbrella was great for getting some shade. Also, free standing tents... I wish I had had one in Scotland and Ireland. There were many times when the soil was so rocky that it was nearly impossible to get stakes in. I hadn't used a free standing tent in forever, but there are times and places for them for sure. Not on the Big 3 in the US though.

[@janefreeman995]

The wind is an issue with umbrellas. I've carried one, but it is often too windy. But it is nice in downpours. I've also used them to better cover my things on a vestibule.

[@jeffreycarman2185]

I once hiked with one of those pocket umbrellas that fold up to like 5 inches long, and it was yellow. I was solo backpacking in the drizzle all day long. I had a great time it added a pop of color.

[@mokster5]

My dad tried an umbrella. He said that as nice as keeping the rain out of his face was, the way it was constantly catching on trees ruined his enjoyment of the hike

[@markmayhew7893]

Love it dude, practical and hysterical!!

[@KyleHatesHiking]

Thanks Mark!

[@ErinHinnen]

Re: sun umbrellas and wind, I've been debating whether to grab one for catalina when I go back next year. Getting out of the sun for a few minutes is something I REALLY wanted last year when I was over there on the TCT. But I had a sun hat and it was useless on the ridges of the TCT, I had to remove it and stuff it in my pack because it kept flinging backwards and trying to choke me. So I've got 0 faith it would work up on any coastal ridge, but it might be worth it for the more inland parts of the trail. It's definitely something to weight the pros and cons of and probably makes more sense on the west coast in general due to lack of shade on trails.

[@quinnbrookins9476]

If you ever do the Camino, I would for sure bring an umbrella. you're in the sun for like 90% of the time. I've thru hiked it twice now and wouldn't do it without one.

[@juketreks2192]

I always bring a Goodyear tire so I can have a tire swing at every site.

[@stonedapeadventures]

not to mention the awesome fire on the last night out !!

[@chriseidam7319]

It is great on descents, too.

[@ToadyWoods]

Do you roll it along? Just send it down the hills? Be careful 😂

[@juketreks2192]

@@ToadyWoods I wear it around my waist you big silly.

[@G33kyminecraft]

Kyle man I love the content please keep it up. Your takes on gear and trail life/culture are refreshing. All of the stuff you put out resonates with me brother. Happy trails!

[@nellinightshade3358]

i thru hiked the AT in '97. boy, do i envy the light options today!!

[@markheming3507]

👏👏👏👏 I’m impressed you have a big enough pole to pitch a tent….. I made the switch to Sixmoons Dechute tarp which uses a trekking pole a few years then sold all my tents & never looked back. I refuse to carry cloths, I mean I do wear cloths just don’t carry extra. I do carry the essentials and an extra pair of socks, tights for sleep but that’s literally it. I considered streaking to save weight, but I thought that might be a little too extreme and maybe even a little cold

[@nobodyatall7039]

I don't use tents because they have too many security issues. They don't allow full visibility to the outside, and can't be escaped from in a hurry due to zippers. They make me feel very vulnerable. I just use a tarp stretched over a cord between two trees along with some mosquito netting.

[@WayneTheSeine]

I feel that away about hammocks. I can imagine being attacked by wild boar or some other stupid animal and shooting myself in the leg trying to fire through the bottom of the hammock while they are going ham on my ass.

[@nobodyatall7039]

@@WayneTheSeine Actually a good point. You would have to keep your weapon in a secure and consistent location and practice drawing and using it from the hammock. There would certainly be the potential for something to go wrong. With either a tent or a hammock I would not sleep without a complete perimeter of brush piled up as an alarm system.

[@WayneTheSeine]

@@nobodyatall7039 I have actually been run up a tree by a several boar hogs and stayed up there for at least an hour while they circled, biting the tree and popping those jaws. Not a very good feeling. It was almost dark by the time they gave up the chase. I hit the ground running. I think there was a sow close by nesting or something. They charged out of some button wood bushes and meant business. I ran up the tree. I am too old to run now so I always carry....always.

[@nobodyatall7039]

@@WayneTheSeine I have had similar experiences except with moose

[@stirlingslingerland4547]

Great video, you have made my day as I don’t carry the 5 things either 👍👍

[@taratreks]

dang kyle you got me again with that thumbnail.. I carried the msr hubba hubba on my 2019 AT thru hike. Lol good video! love the content

[@NeoAutodroid]

For shorter hikes and day hikes I cannot emphasize enough how much I have loved having an umbrella especially since I can deploy and stow away the umbrella all without taking off my pack. It's really useful during warmer weather with infrequent rain where you want to quickly deploy the umbrella when it rains for s few minutes and immediately collapse it when the rain stops. However on a longer through hike I would probably be given pause just because weight becomes more of a concern due to all the food you have to carry.

[@mtadams2009]

I have only used my umbrella for day hikes in the desert and it’s a game changer. That said when I do the PCT I don’t know if I will bring one. My base weight is about 8 pound and I most certainly carry extra underwear. Maybe that is the reason some through hikers just reek like ass. I like to stay clean on the trail and bath whenever I get a chance.

[@yhsh1874]

Quick tip here: don't always believe the "light - hype" and spend unnecessary money. the 32 dollar umbrella there weighs 187grams (6.6ons), but I have a cheaper 7 dollar umbrella that weighs only 152 grams. I only use it in urban trips but just to say, it weighs LESS than that expensive "lighttrek" umbrella there and functions perfectly fine. Been using it for 3 years now and still not broken. Spending 35 dollars for an umbrella is, imho, stupid.

[@thoughtsausage7]

Dries vegetation was hanging all over the trail on the last hike I went on, covered my socks and had to stop several times to clean socks out. Between that and the time I got snowed out trying to find some lakes early in the season, gaiters are going with me on some hikes. The ones I purchased weigh less than a sock.

[@Eric-rr3zd]

I brought an umbrella for the cdt desert and almost never used it, it's SO windy, and they are SO fragile, it just doesn't work well. You cannot really hike with them, and there are plenty of shade trees and stuff to get out of the sun for a bit if you need. The only time I used it, was getting to a water trough that's too short to offer shade, no shade anywhere in sight, and I was really overheating. I sat down and leaned against the trough to block wind and used the umbrella for some shade. It worked enough that I was able to rest a bit and not die from heat stroke. But I think just having the right clothing to keep the sun off is way way better. Dropped it at the second town.

[@Stephi12Anderson]

Used my first set of fairies on dry sandy spots of Florida Trail. They were well worth it. I agree with you on umbrella, there are some great sun hats out there. For underwear, I go with wool thongs. The lack of stench and bacterial growth is peace of mind.

[@michinwaygook3684]

Wow that is crazy. Never heard of people hiking with umbrellas before. Rain gear yes, umbrella no. I have to think if someone is that afraid of getting wet maybe hard core camping / hiking isn't for them. There are hat umbrellas, but I think they are more trouble than they are worth.

[@lizzaangelis3308]

You can always take the gaiters for the desert part and then once you are done with the desert at your first town stop you could mail them home

[@nedanother9382]

this past August I was going over Glen Pass in the sierras....for the second time in two days. I vividly recall walking down the other side (with the umbrella) thinking "if someone offered to trade me a cold 6 pack of beer for my umbrella....not even a tiny chance." It's that good....sometimes.

[@KyleHatesHiking]

Hey whatever floats your boat!

[@chaseadventures]

Great stuff Kyle, useful and entertaining

[@pilgrimtiger2023]

Thanks for the insights and links as well!

[@Algorythmfpv]

I was a boyscout as a kid, and done a ton of normal camping in many different conditions, but on my FIRST backpacking trip, I tried my first trekking pole tent, as well as my first quilt, and I tell you what it will be some pretty specific conditions to get me to go back any time soon! other than maybe festival camping or glamping

[@safromnc8616]

1. Tights are for girls and heavier than underwear... 2. What if you don't use trekking poles ? 3. How many times did you have to stop to get crap out of your shoes ? 4. Do you go for 'maximum stink' or what ? 5. You know an umbrella is quite useful in the sun as well as rain and there are attachments for your pack. So you would carry a chair ... Hey, awesome job on the 46 climbs thingy this year.

[@michelstronguin6974]

Its raining, I open up my umbrella and put on my OV Nebo wind jacket and rain kilt. This wind jacket is extremely breathable and more than water resistant, its almost waterproof. The point is that i'm hiking and my sweat is being wicked away, its a fun time. As opposed to my rain jacket which is not breathable, pit zips help but its not a fun time, the sweat makes me wet, so whats the point? Pro tip, wear the Nebo wind jacket along with an umbrella for good times in the rain.

[@justrusty]

1) Each pair of underwear is good for 4 wears: normal, inside out, backwards, and inside-out backwards. Actually, I use UnderArmor which helps with swamp ass. 2) Also, I love pitching my Zpacks Duplex on a tent platform. As long as the slats have a slight overhang and a slight gap between them, I can always manage to get the guy lines nice and taut. 3) I have gaiters. I used them on one trip. But then, I generally hike in the east. 4) I list "use your cellphone instead of a headlamp" as one of the top 5 worst advice I've ever heard. Because if you get caught out after dark, you're going to need your hands free. 5) Never considered an umbrella. There's these things called hats that work just fine. Maybe if I hiked out west I'd reconsider. My luxury item is this thing called "The Kitchen Sink." It weighs 4 oz, holds 10 liters of water, and just makes life easier for me when I stop to camp but I'm not convinced it's really worth it.. it's more like "I'm carrying it, so I better damn well use it." Makes clean up easier I guess.

[@primitiveanxiety7135]

Where does one aquire "The Kitchen Sink"? Is it that bowl looking apparatus that seatosummit makes?

[@justrusty]

@@primitiveanxiety7135 Yeah, that's the one. I see it comes in three sizes, 5L, 10L and 20L. I have the 10L. For soling, I imagine the 5L would be a good thing.

[@chriseidam7319]

I carry a Sea To Summit Pocket Shower in hot weather. Call it luxury, but I sleep much better if I can wash off the summer slime on a hot night.

[@spuriouseffect]

My entire cookset only weighs 2.7 ounces..... stove, mini-bic, spoon, pot, pot lifter, pot cozy and bowl....., so carrying a luxury item like an umbrella is negligible. And it doubles as the end to my tarp. Everyone has what works for them.

[@christimartin8512]

@@chriseidam7319, I carry one of those too and LOVE it! Not only can I heat it up in the sun and wash the sweat out of my hair, which helps me sleep better, but I use the squirt bag to put out my fire if I have one, wash hands at camp, and generally just to sometimes carry extra water when needed. I have never regretted having it.

[@ke9tv]

-1 on the lack of underwear. I tried hiking in lined tri-shorts once. Only time I've had a real chafing problem. +1 on the trekking-pole tent. (I use a Tarptent Notch in bug season, a simple tarp when the bugs aren't bad. Blessed is he who sleepeth behing bug netting, for he shall remain sane. Gaiters are a necessity with crampons - you'll surely snag a front point on your trouser leg. (Haven't done any long-diostance desert hiking.) Socks to sleep in because wet gear is banned from the sleeping bag. Extra socks if the trail is as wet as the Northville-Placid. If I don't have extra socks in that glop my toes will turn th hamburger from the wet grit in my shoes. Umbrella. Never tried. I do NOT carry a big knife. All that I cut on the trail is the cheese. Luxury item: Nylon bucket. Settling tank for silty water before filtering. Kitchen sink. Fire bucket. But most important, I don't bathe in water sources, and I do like being able to wash. Add a little Tyvek mat to stand on. Your mom likes me better clean.

[@captain-c0lect0r]

Watched until end ;-) Good content. Helps me to deside which stuff I will buy for my very first multi day hike coming up next spring! Cheers amd greetings from germany!

[@heartattackhiker3527]

The umbrella doesn't work well in the wind. I had one in a big downpour in the north cascades, it was nice to have although one other guy coming up the trail made fun of it.

[@numinoushiker]

Umbrellas are a thing in Australia and asian countries where the sun is hectic, and an hour or two of sun gives a bad sunburn. Chances are that is where the brellies are coming from.

[@BurroGirl]

We went ultralight w all our gear even though we use our pack burros to carry our stuff and theirs. We didn't want them to carry more than necessary and we used to backpack so we know what it's like carrying stuff on your back.

[@pungo147]

Yes, on underwear. I cut the liners out of my shorts and use Icebreaker wool underpants. They breathe well and for me are more comfortable. Yes, on gaiters. Weight is minimal and they keep shit out of my shoes. On the fence about umbrellas. I started with one on the AT and left it in a hiker box within the first 30 miles. No on the free-standing tent. I use a ZPacks Duplex. Yes, on the headlight. Although on the AT my headlight crapped out somewhere in VT and I never bothered to replace it. Good discussion. No right or wrong. Still not going to carry a camp chair though.

[@thisoldrelic]

I have never been backpacking but I have hiked in the rain and working on putting a pack together to hopefully take a trip in the spring. But the one thing I have never understood the value of is rainsuit pants. I mean if it's near freezing I guess they make a difference. But they won't keep your shoes dry and who cares if your legs get wet. If you are wearing proper pants or shorts it makes no difference.

[@drivingmissmolly]

If you don’t bring a clean pair of camp/sleep socks, you’ve probably never had trench foot(which is surprising). It is not hard to get, and if you get it once, the likely hood you’ll get it again increases. It is awful and takes a while to go away and if you keep putting dirty, wet/damp socks on, it won’t go away it’ll get worse 😬

[@kayakcobber524]

Never had them...and often had wet feet months in a row. At camp I just wear sandals winter or summer. But must be annoying if you have it

[@christopherlewis4950]

I have the z packs plex solo it is great I know you are cool keep the videos comeing

[@kristinegoodman7534]

I wonder if you will change your mind on the campchair after you turn 40 :)

[@tianikane3312]

I'm 70 and still don't use a camp chair. Just sit on my thermarest mat.

[@2laughandlaugh]

"My crotch smells like crap"....that will get the ladies for sure....lol.

[@Leafwink]

The underware for men idea isn't horrible. The extra sock I only do just in case my feet happen to get wet which can happen when you need to cross a river. The free standing tent is a choice. Yes it doesn't weigh one once but if you are willing to carry the weight then go for it. Yeah, an umbrella is a bit much. I know some people would prefer one than a light weight rain coat but I like to keep my hands free from holding things over a long period of time.

[@joshabercrombie2485]

I live in the rainforests of the PNW. Only time I use a umbrella is when im backpacking.

[@gypsyboomer]

elastane underwear actually weighs less than the lined shorts, can carry three for about the same weight as one pair of shorts. I think that sock liners can be used for clean camp wear and that socks are better than moleskin over the long run. I will do a washer load during resupply stops however.

[@MakoBlitz]

I've saved a bit of weight on recent short backpacking trips going stoveless

[@jamessackett6580]

Darn Tough socks rock! I have a few pairs

[@kevinbaskovich7973]

No gaiters. You will change your tune when you come back after a day of hiking with socks that look like a porcupine. Full of foxtails. You end up having to throw away the socks and spend hours plucking foxtails from your 200 dollar hiking boots. Get rid of the trekking poles if you wanna save weight. The only time I ever wish I had trekking poles is during a creek crossing but theres almost always a branch handy.

[@AzzyGG]

How major is the structural difference between freestanding and trek poles?

[@ItsGoodintheWoods]

The headlamp part .... and Mary Poppins 🤣

[@AZBADBOYz]

I always carry two pairs of socks for times when I start to get hot spots on my feet. New dry socks will keep that from turning into a blister.

[@_68niou1]

You can save a lot of pack weight by not carrying a pack or anything else. Just live off the land like a true ultralighter.

[@jeffreycarman2185]

Gaiters are a must in the mountains, as well as the desert. While I have no experience with east coast mountains, west coast mountains are just nothing but those pebbles that are perfectly-sized to ruin your day when they get in your shoes.

[@AWalkOnDirt]

I would like some insight on the difficulty of driving stakes on the PCT. I am retiring and hiking the PCT in 15 months (March 2024) and I am really stuck on a free standing tent. My hiking partner has one and not driving and pulling stakes seems so worth it. I am being pulled in both directions. Here in Arkansas I am bending stakes (Ozark Highland Trail) all the time hitting rocks and roots just under the surface.

[@mtadams2009]

I have never hiked the PCT but I have watched way to many videos on the trail because I do plan on doing it in three years and I never hear anyone mention not being able to drive in stakes. I have seen many channels and most use trekking pole tents so I don’t think it’s and issue. Good luck on your hike. Take care

[@AWalkOnDirt]

@@mtadams2009 yeah, I made my decision on my tent. On everything if it’s a toss up I am leaning toward comfort and durability. Going with a Big Agnes tent. I am concerned about the zippers and the appearance of pinholes with ZPacks tents.

[@mtadams2009]

@@AWalkOnDirt Before I purchased my Zpacks Duplex I had a Big Agnes Tiger Wall two person tent and for one person it was a great little tent. The only negative was the zippers on the rain fly. They were difficult to open especially when wet. I have heard the same issue with others owning it. That said it was a great tent and the only reason was I am older and wanted to go truly UL. I have had no issues with my Duplex and I think the zippers are much better than my BA. Before my Arc Blast I had a 38 l Granite Gear pack and it was and is a great pack. Again the only reason I moved on from it was weight. I only paid 300.00 for my Tiger Wall on sale at REI and 138.00 for the Granite Gear pack. If I was younger I more than likely would have never moved on from those pieces of gear. I think there is a lot of great gear and options. Enjoy your hike.

[@MikeHacker]

What did you use on the pct during night hiking... 😎

[@Zapruderfilm1963]

I use a Six Moon Designs SUL umbrella. At 5.5 Oz it’s the lightest FULL SIZE umbrella on the market.👍

[@KyleHatesHiking]

Nice! Ever regretted taking it or are you always glad you had it?

[@tianikane3312]

Me too. Wish I had obtained it sooner. Need it for hot sun as well as rain. Also you can make a mozzie net condom to go over them so you can have lunch in peace....

[@mateobeans3787]

Damn it! How is my MoM always mentioned in your videos?????

[@soletrail]

In Ireland you getta have extra socks. Very boggy under foot. Great video man. I just except that I am dirty on the trail.. "I give it to your mom" 😂😂😂 classic. Sub from me dude.

[@maxinemcclurd1288]

In all the hiking I've done I've never become comfortable just stinking . Fresh socks are a nice luxury and some baby wipes help out too.

[@chasel1305]

In the desert the umbrellas might make you sweat less so less water needed?

[@cynthiabehr1870]

I tried a friends umbrella for an hr while hiking a large section of the AT. I felt like Mary freaking Poppins. It was kinda fun but I'll stick to Toggs

[@shawnmckenna5186]

Nice mood candle in the back.

[@briargoatkilla]

Oh to be that liner!

[@KyleHatesHiking]

😂😂 it's not good

[@88WhiteRhino]

I use dihydrogen monoxide instead of water, saves so much

[@bobbafett1971]

I like gaters for pine needles. Constantly getting in my shoes and poking my ankle.

[@sirsir108]

I love free standing tents for car camping or music festivals or something like that I've always used tarps I plan on getting a trekking pole tent eventually for certain situations mainly guaranteed rain Gators are good if you hiking through trails with loads of poison oak other then that I don't care for them much but I've been thinking of bringing a pair for my next snow hike to see how it goes since I haven't felt cold enough for snow pants and wearing the tights and running shorts allows snow in my shoes and or boots I brought an umbrella with me on the pct when I had my dog with me in case he needed shade and there wasn't any I sent it home with him when we parted and regretted it for like 90 minutes or so during one exposed stretch they do work for rain or at least mine does I keep it in my car and use it from time to time im pretty much with you on everything but i like to bring boxers (2) and if im doing lots of watercrossings i want 1 pair of dry socks to sleep in and 2 pairs to swap every day if i dont expect lots of water crossings 2 is fine if im only doing a weekend trip 1 is fine

[@mamavswild]

I will never give up my freestanding tent. Ever. If I’m not enjoying the best part of the night, dinner and relaxing while reading a chapter or two, then what on earth is the point. That’s at least my take. My kindle has been up and down the US.

[@sirsir108]

@Wild Mountain Gwendy @Wild Mountain Gwendy sounds nice and cozy to me I bet it's pretty easy to find spots to put the tent up too most of the time I go on backpacking trips I bring my dog along and I carry his food and water so I end up taking a more minimal approach with my things so he can come along with me in my opinion its worth it Im glad to hear your set up works good for you and you have a good time that's what it's all about after all

[@mtadams2009]

@@mamavswild I am just wondering why you think a trekking pole tent would not be comfortable. I own my share of free standing tents but since getting my Zpacks tents I have never used them again. My Duplex is very roomy for my dog and me and it’s a very nice tent. I think it’s nicer then my BA Tiger Wall for sure.

[@mtadams2009]

Just wondering how did it go with your dog on the PCT? I have had concerns about taking mine for two reasons heat and snakes. I have never hiked with my dog on leash and I would assume in the desert you would have to give the fact that poisonous snakes are common. Just wondering how did you deal with those issues. I have hiked hundreds of miles with my dog but not in areas with many snakes. Take care

[@sirsir108]

@Scott Gibson well I only really messed around in the pacific northwest with my pup so there weren't many snakes and the heat isn't as big of a deal either plenty of shade to find most of the time if it is too hot and exposed in the heat of the day wait it out and night hike I like to have my dog off leash when I can but if something looks potentially snakey or at night (big cats or coyotes or something that could chase) I like him tethered around my waist with a leash with elastic in it and behind me Apparently you can get rattle snake vaccines for dogs which I've heard help at least keep them alive but youll probably be carrying them out still if they get bit me personally I'd probably not do the desert with my doggo unless maybe super early or late in the season but that sounds like more trouble than it's worth it would be cool to thru hike the whole thing with the dog but I stick to long section hikes We just did most of oregon In July and some more after the fires stopped in October hopefully we can fill in what's left and go into Washington this summer and eventually do the norcal stuff one day

[@rockymountboy]

Underwear: I see the purpose of underwear the same as a sleeping bag liner. Well, not to keep you warmer, which I suppose it does, but so that you have a removable liner that protects your outer layer and can be washed if needed. So, I'd say 2 pair (1 worn, and 1 packed) is the way to go, especially for longer trips. Polyester/wicking, of course. Tents: You are presenting a false dichotomy between freestanding and trekking pole tents. There are many non-freestanding tents that require the use of the tent's specific poles, and trekking poles would not work. So, your decision is really between trekking pole tents and non-trekking pole tents. And the decision makes sense for a multi-day hike where wight matters more. Gaiters: I've heard great things abut Dirty Girl Gaiters, too. I'll probably be getting some. Camp socks: Agreed. No need for another pair when sitting around camp. But I do bring a pair for sleeping. And liners as well. Switch out your liners after a few days. And if I were on a multi-day hike, I'd bring and extra pair of the thick socks, just in case something happened to the primary pair. Your feet are so important when backpacking. Take care of them. Umbrella: Agreed. That's why I bring a cap and rain jacket. I don't want to be forced to be lifting my hands for hours.

[@tianikane3312]

There are mechanisms you can buy to attach the umbrella to the pack so you can walk with your poles. I made mine out of velcro that is permanently attached to the umbrella, and then when required are wrapped around the front of the shoulder straps on my pack. Good for areas where no trees, shrubs etc.

[@nickdarr7328]

I can not stand putting on dirty socks. If I go take off socks to take a nap on a Saturday afternoon I will never put those socks back on. When camping I will not bring an extra pair of pants and one pair of underwear but at least 4 pairs of socks extra

[@spruce238]

For ultralight gaiters, cut the leg ends of nylon pants and use a rubber band on top and bottom. The whole set up weighs 1-2 ounces.

[@lh3540]

Stoves. I'm mostly an ultra runner, I just don't see the point of cooking outside. I don't cook that much at home either though.

[@BookwormSkates]

8:03 nailed it 😂😂😂

[@coachhannah2403]

I wear long pants and long sleeves to save on sunscreen, both weight and application.

[@obiwanjacobi]

I refuse to carry a Dutch oven... BTW, gaiters: use long socks and an elastic band. Put the elastic band over your sock on your leg and fold the sock back downward over the rim of your shoe.

[@stonedapeadventures]

I don't carry any rain gear. Umbrella is fine for me. you could always ditch the trekking poles and go with a tarp and save like 2lbs.

[@TruckManThings]

Idkm i can get behind it, if i gamble on a fart, i can just pull the liner out of the way. also, you can always just say its mud ;3

[@chrisallen2005]

@@TruckManThings I am 65 years old. Yes to a change of underwear. At my age I can not trust a fart and I nut support for my nutsack. Trials of getting old.

[@MikeHacker]

You still get wet with umbrellas... Nothing wrong with getting wet but... You should try to stay dry other wise it ends up with naked people together in a sleeping bag...

[@namedtodream9895]

I carried an umbrella for my partner. It kept his bitching down, but he refused to carry it. 🤷🏼‍♀️ Then due to rain gear mishap carried it for Oregon. 3 pairs of undies and socks and still ultralight though 😘

[@cynthiabehr1870]

Luxury item??? Is it called a P32? It finally came in handy for someone else to open their pop top can that came off. I also used it to fix my stove so i could still cook food but not very effectively. But whatever. It weighs less than a dime. A tennis ball is probably the best luxury item I've seen, many uses esp massaging tired feet & sore muscles, playing fetch with random dogs on the trail, passing the time. Truly my small journal is my luxury item. I try to record everything in it. A wooden clothes pin. It weighs almost nothing& has been useful for multiple applications, but generally not necessary. Should nix it. Oh and the only thing i use my tick remover is when tied to my whistle it jingles which scares off bears. Ticks don't seem to be attracted to me tho. Thankfully! But that means it doesn't have 2 uses which is a requirement for me... I'm not an ultralight hiker. I carry a 2-2-22 tent: 2 man, 2lb, $22 @Walmart. Works great. Sleeping bag is 2.33 lbs. Pack dry weight with 5 days food is 23 lbs. Minus food is 15lbs summer weight. I also carry iodine tablets as a back up for my Sawyer. Probably going to nix the water bladder & solely use Gatorade bottles.

[@jamesadams2334]

I don't wear underwear either, but I cut the liners out of shorts so that I have full freedom. I have no chaffing problems then and they are cooler. Trekking pole tents are useless. Too much condensation, too much work to keep them tight, too much hassle to use. I got rid of a H. Shires and traded it even for a Hubba and never touched a T pole tent again. If I don't take the Hubba, I only take a 15oz. 10' x 10' tarp. Trekking pole tents will never be as stable as a free-standing tent and almost the same weight. I only wear gaiters in the desert and you're not "carrying" them, you're wearing them. I carry a headlamp. A very light Tikka. I don't carry a phone, it's too heavy. I don't hike with an umbrella, but I do hike with a camp chair. At the end of the day the back support is worth its weight in gold. I will carry an umbrella if I hike the desert again but send it home post desert. I like how they do keep you a lot drier in rain but again, not sure how well it would work on the AT with the trees. My thru hike pack weight with 4 days of food, a liter of water, a liter of whiskey and a camp chair is 27 lbs. I can accept that considering I showed up on Springer in 1990 with a 72 lb. pack, got it down to 42 lbs. by Damascus and was successful with the hike. geek

[@MA-db3bb]

my dude they make UMBRELLA HATS. i love them

[@darrinmcgann]

I always bring an anvil... (ACME brand) Have you not seen the Roadrunner movies?

[@canadafree2087]

I would not wear socks for two days straight. Better to clip yesterdays socks to your pack to let them air out, dry, and to let the sun eat the germs.

[@smileygladhands]

Dude, that Plex tent is $600! What?!? Just for a tent that doesn't even have poles? Call me cheap, but good lord that is expensive. I can get an entire gear kit for about half that. I'm not ragging on you, to each his own. But I'd rather carry an extra 3-4 pounds if it means saving $450-$500. Can you do a budget gear list for us poor plebes? Thanks man! (If you ever see this) Also, people shouldn't get mad at others for what they carry. Everyone is different and have different needs. I'm sure my gear kit would make some hardcore hikers vomit in their mouth, but it's what I like. Most of my stuff is relatively cheap, so it's probably heavier than it could be (my pack completely loaded is about 42-45 lbs, and about a quarter of it is Ozark Trail, yeah, I know...). But, it's what I can afford.

[@Le-Abdollen]

understandable, just that it's nice to be able to reduce weight so that it's easier to hike wherever without feeling encumbered or struggling

[@Shrouded_reaper]

DCF patent is held by one single company that charges whatever they want which is why they are all so expensive.

[@mermeow]

I couldn't help but wonder...what about those umbrella hats I see at sporting events or beaches? 😹😹😹

[@jeremyjames2643]

I honestly don’t like wearing thin shorts when I hike, I wish I could but I live in so cal even though it’s hot sometimes after running through a mountain of cactus after getting attacked by wasps I swore never to wear shorts again 😂

[@daven.7685]

I too live in So Cal. Got tore up in the Santa Monica’s a month ago hiking in shorts. All those overgrown plants turn into sharp briars in the winter before the rains. Immediately bought some lightweight Kühl joggers at the REI safe. Worth ever penny.

[@obxchas]

You're not foolin' me. You never gave it to my mom. You said you were worried about your rigidity earlier in the vid.