New Gear I Would NEVER BRING on a Long Hike

[@connorfood]

I hiked the full PCT last year (2023) and brought my chair zero the whole way, it was 100% worth it, everyone made fun on the trail but was always jealous in camp when I'm lounging instead of sitting in the dirt. You just need to hike fast enough to have time to relax at camp ;) I stopped hiking at 5pm most days and would sit in my chair cooking dinner and chatting with other hikers before bed.

[@chili1593]

#takeaseat!

[@billcannon6405]

Sounds like you enjoyed the trail rather than just worrying about miles. Remember you my never be there again enjoy it.

[@Andy-Mesa]

People never talk about the fact that breaks happen. I use my chair most during breaks. It’s also super useful to put stuff on to keep it off the ground.

[@andreasweber7828]

Like the umbrella/coffee maker fraternity : either you’re in or you’re out. But once you’ve fully committed to it, there’s no turning back

[@BryanM-nd6xj]

The cool thing is, is you can bring whatever you want!

[@dalehuitt]

Nearly 60 and after a life spent in the military and law enforcement, I am absolutely glad I take along that 1 lb chair. Having a chair to relax in at the end of the day makes a long day of hiking with bad knees and bad back all the more enjoyable. I was always against it as unnecessary. But, the more miles on trail and the older I get, the more I appreciate it. It goes with me on every trail from a single overnight to a month long adventure. It may not be "necessary", but is ABSOLUTELY worth it.

[@PhilAndersonOutside]

Similar. Over 50 here too. Most trips I take my chair now. Only the toughest trips with the most elevation gain do I leave it behind.

[@janefreeman995]

Over 60 and there's absolutely no way I'd carry the extra weight. I'm a small female and at the end of the day on a thru hike I just go to bed.

[@dalehuitt]

Definitely a personal choice. I like doing around 20 mile days and relaxing around my campsite each night. Enjoy my time on the trail. I carried a chair on each of my thru hikes on the PCT and CDT and many other adventures in the U.S. and overseas and glad I had it. It’s a pound of luxury. But then again my pack is pretty light to begin with having a base weight around 13 pounds with the chair.

[@tomd1914]

Same here. I was always dead set against a chair or any extra "luxury" weight. Now that I'm approaching 60 and have had knee surgery, and being that I tend to get up early and get to camp a few hours before sunset, the 1 lbs chair just makes the entire hike more enjoyable.

[@Damon_Jay]

Army Medic Here. And Facts!! ❤

[@RegEdmunds]

I'm an old hiker and decided this year to buy a chair, because I'm no longer supple enough to lounge around on the ground so easily. I bought it for another reason too, one that I've not seen discussed on hiking videos, I'm one of those people who are always trying to get to Point B, which is always ahead of me. It's a personal curse, and I'm hoping that the chair will slow me down, and it will help me to want to lounge around, rather than always trying to push on.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

That’s a great way to look at it!

[@lyndseygolden7546]

It’s really good for that! I love having a chair and drinking another cup in the morning in my chair!

[@matthewbarrett5349]

for anyone who is interested, worlds best coffee on trail is really simple. Pack out really fine fresh ground coffee (turkish or espresso grind). A cafe or grocery can do this for you if you don't have something at home. Boil water, add your fine ground beans, and give it a stir. The grinds are so fine they sink to the bottom. Then you can enjoy an awesome cup of coffee with no hassle or extra stuff.

[@XwaYdesu]

Are you packing out the grounds in the bottom of your cup, or just drinking them down?

[@matthewbarrett5349]

well all the grounds sink to bottom of your mug and form a paste so you drink the coffee part and then toss the grounds how you please (pack out, bury, scatter, whatever)

[@mikeb5664]

Starbucks makes a good microground 'instant' coffee.

[@matthewbarrett5349]

@@mikeb5664 I am a snob and never liked their instant coffees but to each their own :)

[@dakotaescher1]

54 hurt my back in the military. I need support. I don't carry all the silly camera gear etc for filming, my stove is a peanut butter jar and I am careful about food weight. I take the chair.

[@billcannon6405]

I'm 56 I'm bringing a chair and the pump.

[@woodchip2782]

I’m 66 and I bring a chair. 55 years of back breaking cabinet making requires it…😊

[@derekweiland1857]

Agreed. I hike with a group of Army vets (combat arms). The military ruins soldiers' backs. This guy is young and healthy. Have him do a couple of years of intense infantry training; then add 20-30 years of gravity degeneration to his spine and then let's him hear talk about how all he needs after hiking all day is a 1/8th" thick pad.

[@Hikewithsammich]

I'm not military (mad respect to you) but have degenerative disc disease and am over 50. I'll take the damn chair. 😂 When I was in my 20's and 30's and still healthy enough to do all the crazy things I laughed at people who took chairs or hiked with poles. Age and gravity teach you to enjoy the small things. You'll have to pry my chair and my umbrella out of my cold, dead hands. LOL

[@PhilAndersonOutside]

Not ex-military, but used to do a lot of international mountaineering. I've carried enough heavy stuff and have my aches and pains. I can leave other extra stuff behind, but the chair is really nice at day's end.

[@jays7318]

Once I switched from a rain jacket to an umbrella, I never looked back. Sure, I sometimes have to maneuver around branches, but it's still worth it. I got sick of sweating in a rain jacket or having one wet out. Also, the sun and heat protection that an umbrella provides is much better than a hoodie, though I like hoodies for cooler temperatures.

[@brisketchick]

Glad to hear this. I have an umbrella coming because I overheat so easily, I have found that I prefer having air flow when I can. Sunscreen just adds to the sweaty sticky feeling, so I avoid it as much as I can.

[@jays7318]

@brisketchick What umbrella did you buy? I hope it works out for you. Ya, sunscreen is toxic too.

[@brisketchick]

@@jays7318Thanks, I hope it works out, too! I got the Silver Shadow Carbon umbrella by Six Moon Designs. It's supposed to arrive today! I'm a bit apprehensive about the pack attachment I'll need to use with it since I hike with poles most of the time, but we'll see. I may see about switching to using one pole (something I've been considering anyway for other reasons).

[@brisketchick]

@@jays7318 and you're right, the toxicity of sunscreen is another reason I avoid it.

[@jays7318]

@@brisketchick Nice Umbrella. Don't give up of it doesn't work for the first time! I found that it works quite well attached to my backpack shoulder straps

[@neemancallender9092]

I use an umbrella backpacking in the British Hills where the rain is on and off again An umbrella is excellent to open and close again without rain gear Yes once it is storming I put on rain gear At 70 I use a folding stool, lighter than the lightest chair and a 1/5 of the cost A vital piece of equipment

[@Hikewithsammich]

The best part about backpacking is we can bring what makes us comfotable. Age/disease/life/body changes affect what we bring. What I brought in my 30's is not what I bring now in my 50's. I bring the chair, the umbrella and my Jetboil. I'm more about less miles and more savoring the time out there than crushing miles anymore. I know I'm closer to death than birth and I want to enjoy my moments out on trail because one day I won't be able to. When I was younger I felt like I'd live forever.

[@jasonmanhart5016]

Your comment sounds like your my style. I’m 48 and taking two of my children to hike 1/2 way down the Grand Canyon in January. I’m a rookie and acquiring gear. At present my biggest worry is about footwear. I think my HOKA tennis shoes would honestly be more comfortable than the hiking boots I have, but treading down the canyon makes me think boots are necessary. Maybe tennis shoes up? Wondering what an aging person might think? Thanks.

[@tomd1914]

I was always dead set against bringing a chair on a longer hike. Then I tried that same Helionox Zero. Now I bring it on all hikes, as I tend to start early (before sunrise) and get into camp a few hours before sunset. Yes, its a "luxury" and adds a pound to my pack, and my base weight went from almost right at 9 lbs to 10 lbs. But its worth it.

[@mech-E]

Hiking where it rains a lot I like going with a small umbrella. Just keeps so much more of the moisture off you and makes it much more enjoyable

[@jays7318]

Agreed, and the sweaty rain jacket can be replaced with a more breathable wind jacket in combination with the umbrella

[@devacore477]

A UL Umbrella is a must is a must for me.

[@jays7318]

@@devacore477 Indeed

[@unknowuser1843]

Say what you will about alcohol stoves, but I love my trangea. And before that, was using a home made alcohol stove. Their simple to use, can use a bunch of fuels and they just work if you know how to use them right

[@larson0014]

Some people like roughing it, some like smoothing it

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Both are great!

[@m34tba11]

“smoothing it”. I like that phrase, had never come across it before

[@Tenalach02]

​@@m34tba11 I believe Nessmuk coined it.

[@stairclimbersteve]

I love my Chair Zero! Did 75 plus mile PCT section hikes in Oregon last year and the year before and was so grateful to have my chair! I agree totally with the instant coffee. Super light weight, no grounds to dispose of and very little trash to pack out. On the air pump/pump sack, I have a pump sack and it works well. I use it to wrap up my sleeping bag to protect it from getting wet.

[@drasticbread249]

9:40 I know this video is about your own preference, but I'll give my own about the Aeropress. For me, good tasting coffee is a big part of my morning routine at home. Being able to have just as good of a cup that I can make at home in the morning when I'm backpacking is such a huge boost, that it's worth the extra hassle of carrying the Aeropress. The press when it's stored has hollow space that can also store other gear inside of it, to mitigate the bulk. I also carry powdered heavy cream in my food bag, that I reconstitute while my coffee brews. To me, it's 100% worth it, but I can understand how it wouldn't be for everybody.

[@steven7169]

I can't even comprehend going 4-6 months without a decent cup of coffee.

[@atlmtnbiker]

Used my UL umbrella all the time on the AT. It's super simple to not get it caught in the rhododendrons. In fact, I found using the umbrella allowed me to wear a UL rain jacket and kept it from wetting out. Additionally, protecting my head and chest from rain, keeping those areas dry, meant I didn't care if my lower half got wet - I always felt pretty dry even if that was just psychologically. As for blowing up an inflatable pad, the Nemo tensor is the most comfortable pad I've ever used and luckily the Nemo pump sack is the best on the market. Fill it 3 and 1/4 times and the pad is inflated. You can also use your pack liner as an inflation sack. I'm glad people have found the pumps, but I think it would drive me a little nuts to hear three or four of those things every night lol... Just going to go

[@richardinacan]

the UL umbrella prevented me from getting injured from golf ball sized hail on 2 separate occasions, was pleasant for on and off rain, kept me dryer because my sweaty body could air out and saved me from heat stroke in severe sun. Yeah it can be annoying, yes I never really got the fiddly backpack clip thing to work, but it has been a real hero on my adventures.

[@brookeb7994]

Which UL umbrella is preferred by you two? I think umbrella over a chair or inflation device will significantly help me as a fair redhead with a hiking trip planned in the desert.

[@HappilyMediocre]

I added the chair to my gear this year and I think it's even MORE important with a long thru hike where the fatigue compiles day after day. Plus, who wants to wait for the perfect log or rock when you need a rest? It takes literally a minute to set-up and bam, back support.

[@playtester6635]

Not only, I would bring an aeropress, I would bring a coffee grinder to grind my coffee fresh specialty coffee on trail. It absolutely puts me out of the ultralight category but it is pure joy

[@E_Clampus_Vitus]

The Starbucks Via’s just don’t cut it.

[@colleenpodraza6050]

I’m hiking with you! 😂

[@johndickinson4594]

I'm planning a long distance bicycle tour (2 years if all goes well) and I'm packing a white gas stove. Its a cost factor. I did the math and I'll save $500 on gas alone. I know they're big and bulky, but for that kind of savings, I'll endure and enjoy the retro dining experience. That new air pad pump from Flextail is the bomb! I had a pump and it was OK. It was nice to not blow up my pad but using that tiny pump the first time and I'll never leave without it again.

[@melwtan]

I am with you there. Did a 3 month bike tour and had a solid bomb proof Primus multi-fuel stove. I had trouble finding white gas in some places and ended up burning gasoline. After a couple days of struggling with a pump sack every evening, I picked up a pump and never looked back. 10/10 would do the same again.

[@michelstronguin6974]

Great video! Personally I find the chair is also like a table to put all your stuff on instead of putting the stuff on the ground sometimes. Also it helps to sit when filtering water. Also it rests your back after a long day of hiking, its the kind of rest that even laying down doesn't give, its true support, where your back gets to take some off time. And its nice to get to a beautiful location and be able to kick back and take it all in while your back relaxes. its a big deal, and so for a thru hike, the chair zero is a win imo.

[@mikecloutier1159]

I used my Six Moons umbrella from Damascus to Katahdin and loved it as my rain gear. Between that and a rain Skirt I stayed dry with the exception of my feet. It's 100% become a mainstay in my packs

[@jays7318]

Got an umbrella for backpacking and never went back to a rain jacket!

[@jcbiesanz]

Agreed. I have the same setup and had no issues in heavy wind. The Six Moons carbon fiber was rock solid.

[@roogiordano1401]

Totally agree! And your feet will get wet no matter what you use for rain gear.

[@Andy-Mesa]

I hiked the PCT last year with a chair and an umbrella and I loved it. In fact, if I had to keep just one item from my entire kit, it would be my umbrella.

[@jays7318]

Yay for umbrellas!

[@brookeb7994]

Which one do you use?

[@Andy-Mesa]

@@brookeb7994 Six Moon Designs Carbon

[@Lands_Solo]

I get the practical arguments you make, but some items are pure morale items, things that will just lift your spirit when you need it, so they are worth carrying. For me, closing in on 60, a chair is one of those items, I can see why a nicely brewed coffee would be that item for others, being English I'm lucky, teabags for making tea are light and easy to pack and obviously solve the worlds problems when required :)

[@timjulian1175]

As usual, the correct answer to the question "do you take....?" is "well, that depends." I'm almost halfway through my 6th decade of backpacking and with today's gear can carry a ~15# baseweight and enjoy a level of comfort and convenience undreamed of 50, or even 25 years ago. Tailor the style to the trip. For me, I find that an inflation sack works really well, never runs out of juice, weighs half of what that flextail gizmo does and using it is almost relaxing in a zen sort of way, especially if I'm sitting in my 1 lb chair to do it.

[@nicholaslafferty3928]

After using both kinds of stoves, I prefer the alcohol stove because after optimizing, I use about a third of the normal amount of fuel, so it's the economical choice. That was funny the "eww" with the coffee! I was using the UL Java drip you showed and also ended up using instant for the same reason. Cleaning up the filter each morning can be a task. I made my own backpack and use a large pumpsack bag as the main compartment. Besides, with the Klymt Inertia X pad, it would only take 3 or 4 breaths. It aint for everybody but I find it very comfortable and it's very light. I love you videos Darwin keep up the great work and thanks for teaching me so much.

[@HikeMoreWorryLess]

Maybe I agree with you but I love my diy alcohol stove, especially because it's quiet

[@phil.clarke]

That is why I only use my Trangia - I don't stress over the time it takes to silently boil as I use that time to sit in my chair and reflect ins peace. Can't stand the noise these fast boil things make!

[@jaquessiemasz8650]

inflation sacks are pretty awesome too! and they double as a dry bag. no batteries required

[@Uncle_Fred]

He's right about the pump. It makes the process of setting up camp a lot less work. Try it!

[@jonswaffield499]

Umbrella: Used one on the CT a few years back - not for the sun but rain. I run hot and when it comes to rain I can decide between getting wet from the rain or hot and wet from sweat ("breathable" jackets are better than the old neoprene ones, but only in degree)(showing my age here. Back in the 1970's before Gortex, neoprene was what you had). With the umbrella I could keep dry without putting the jacket on. They are small so one arm did tend to get wet but I could live with that. Obviously wind and rain is a problem, but I was lucky and so did not have to put away because of that. Combined with a rain skirt (black trash bag) it was the best wet weather combo I have used. I agree they would be rather impractical on the green tunnel of the AT.

[@mclostinthewoods]

I'm an alcohol stove stalwart, because you can get yellow Heet everywhere too. I'm not in a hurry to cook, and I use a Zelph Fancee Feest stove, which blooms instantly. I also take my Firebox Nano debris stove, which requires no purchasing of fuel. Unless it's rained, I have no trouble finding sticks and such to fuel it and actually enjoy the little fire. Just something I enjoy on the trail. I don't do long distance much anymore. I'm older and it's hard to get away too long. When we do, I still take my alcohol stove setup and debris stove. I actually find I only use the stove in the morning to make tea. Otherwise I pretty mich always use my Nano to cook. I have an older version of the Flextail pump that is a little larger, but I have to be honest, I love it. Still fits in my electronics bag and makes the pad setup so easy. Mine also has a light in it that I use as a tent light.

[@paddle_hike]

I agree the Flextail Zero Pump ROCKS... and it stays on the pad (compared to previous versions).

[@E_Clampus_Vitus]

I just don’t understand the pump. I’ve always blown up the air pad and never thought, this is too much work.

[@paddle_hike]

@@E_Clampus_Vitus depends on pads and well... after a long hike in high altitude... it's kinda nice to save your breath 😉

[@E_Clampus_Vitus]

@@paddle_hike I want to try it for the fire starting ability. I use a wood stove sometimes and I could see a use there. Everything needs to be multipurpose 🤌

[@lolobeans]

This is an excellent breakdown of both tents, thank you. Personally I love having two vestibules (the bigger the better). When all my gear is wet, I can lay it out in one while using the other to get in and out, make coffee etc. I didn't realize how important this was until I used the x-mid pro. İt's a game changer for me as far as general comfort on trail.

[@traviskinchen2265]

I bought an umbrella, and I love it but would not take it on a long trip. However, I live in south central Texas where summer sun can kill you. That umbrella makes day hikes in 107f and sun that feels like a sledgehammer doable if still kinda insane. It beats staying indoors for months, though. Yeah, I wear my sun hoodie but the difference in subjective experience is huge.

[@vincentleuga8135]

Have hiked the full AT, and umbrella was my best friend against the rain :D

[@jays7318]

Ya, trekking umbrellas are fine in forests. I am able to maneuver around branches with it fine

[@keepingtherubberdown5715]

I agree on a lot of things here with you. The coffee though, I am a coffee drinker and I love coffee. 1st - All of the little packets produce so much garbage. I normally purchase a container where you get 50 servings and then I dole out into a small bag to carry with. 2nd - I have an aeropress. And I love it. I take 1/2 of my trips. Again, comes down to garbage and how much other stuff I am bringing and who is with me. Most of the time I am always the first one up, packed and waiting on others. So, making good coffee and relaxing while waiting on others doesn't bother me. Thanks much for sharing your list..

[@iambarks2814]

For many older hikers some form of backrest is essential as sadly the flexibility to sit comfortably on the ground has gone long ago - now one of my primary considerations for a campsite is presence of a rock or logs (picnic table is perfect but not very many where I like to go) to sit on or against. My advice to all you young people is do everything you can to maintain or regain the ability to sit comfortably cross legged (yoga type exercises are great) - I had a back injury and despite all efforts to try to sit cross legged I cannot do it for more than a few minutes so a log, rock, chair, cushion or block is in effect essential.

[@jonriordan649]

A sun-umbrella in the desert is essential, for me. Just being able to uncover my skin for however long conditions allow is worth it

[@jays7318]

Agreed, and keeps me much cooler than does a sun shirt and hat

[@orion7741]

you can keep your skin uncovered all the time though, just use sunscreen. those "sun hoodies" are just rediculous and dumb looking. skin loves to see the sun and to soak in that Vitamin D! sunscreen is your friend.

[@jays7318]

@@orion7741 Toxic endocrine disrupting sunscreen? No thanks

[@jonriordan649]

@orion7741 I'd prefer to defer skin cancer as long as possible and look like a doofus. There is a reason that desert tribes cover up

[@jays7318]

@@jonriordan649 Indeed, and also not use that toxic, endocrine disrupting sunscreen.

[@medicinegone]

Having had knee replacement surgery 16mos ago, I can say that having that Zero chair is worth the extra bulk and weight for me. Having a comfortable place to sit for a couple hours before sleep makes a difference the next day. I also bought one of the FlexTail pumps shortly after they came out. They're okay. If you like a firm pad, you'll need to top it off by blowing into it (which lowers your R value and also builds mold on the inside) or using a sack. The pump just doesn't have enough power to counterbalance the pressure of the mat once it nears full.

[@Karen-dq8nw]

Good to know about the umbrella. I have been tempted by them over and over, but never bought one. I'll skip it now for sure! I don't need the pump either - I like the time I sit and inflate my mattress and stretch my quads, the soles of my feet, my hips in a squat, etc. It just slows me down after a busy day, deeply breathing in and out.

[@Jorgew01]

i used to use a tripod chair or just a pad when hiking. But im really i need of good support for my back when sitting, if im sitting hunched over my back goes sore within a minute. So for me a chair is a must for my comfort.

[@slalomnorth]

Good points on all things. One thing I really like about alcohol stoves is you can measure out exactly how much fuel you might need for a trip, which works well for my backpack hunting needs. I just rode the great divide mtb route and decided I can’t do instant coffee anymore (although I haven’t tried the fancy instant). I think I’m just gonna carry the extra weight of the GSI pour over

[@philamongthehills501]

I can really relate to the chair. Got one years ago. Sold it to lighten up. Just got the same model again to use for a planned week of cycling coming up. I will be seeing you on the TMB.

[@UGA.D]

The tiny pump makes a good fire bellows, too.

[@RegEdmunds]

I love my mattress pump.

[@chmarsh523]

I purchased a Flextail Tiny Pump 2. It comes with several nozzles. Can anyone tell me which nozzle inflates their Thermarest NeoAir Uberlite? Thanks!

[@Intentionally-wild8175]

I'm doing two 40 miles tips this year. One is an overnighter i will be carring the bare minimum, I will be hiking most of the day enjoying the views, and taking a ton of photos. My other trip is 4 days and three nights this trip I plan to relax in chair at camp and to float on Alpine lakes. They are the same mileage but have way different gear.

[@fayleya3865]

A tiny umbrella works perfectly for the on+off rain that we get here. Such a pain to put on a rai jacket and take it off all the time, it pops open and goes away super easy. In very cold rain and hail it’s also great to add to the rai jacket to reduce cold. Not so good on coastal trails though in the wind!

[@headwerkn]

For many people, especially those getting older, chairs make the difference between being able to do a longer (4+ day) trips and not being able to. I was convinced to get one by a senior mate who’s one of the most committed ULers I know, but he’s also 67 and his body tells him so on the longer trips (by longer trips, I’m talking 7-12 days off track bushbashing over mountain ranges in southwest Tasmania, not trundling merrily along a clear track or trail). The chair helps to keep his body functional. For thru hikes where you’re walking lots and not hanging around camp much, sure, probably no value. But on trips where you’ve got time to be be social with others around camp and have plenty of ‘down time’ they’re great. I just wish they didn’t sink so easily in our usually soft ground.

[@richardinacan]

I brought a helinox chair for 7 days in the alps, only out of curiosity. Posted that thing back within 3 days, then sold it back home. When I wanted to sit, i couldn't be bothered setting it up, or there would always be a good enough spot within a minute or so to stop and i'd sit on my 80g groundsheet / rain kilt. The sun umbrella is situational, yes it can get in the way, but if it's really hot, clothes don't help, the heat is on your body still, in this situation the umbrella really, really saved me. Also when it rained it was nice too, especially just walking around towns in the rain, or flat parts of the trail. Sure on the mountains it's too windy, but it's an extra on top of your usual rain gear.

[@BobPritchard]

I loved having my umbrella on the Vermont Long Trail. Rained every single day! And it was cool/cold in the fall. On the other hand, I had one on most of my PCT hike and guess what, it hardly ever rained! I plan on taking it on my Colorado Trail hike this year due to expected monsoon summer rains.

[@jays7318]

Yay for umbrellas!

[@rolfdenver]

If you need a free shuttle to Waterton Canyon look me up. I’m on the CTF shuttler list and the LT is on my bucket list.

[@BobPritchard]

@@rolfdenver I will look you up Rolf! I'm coming from lower elevation in the northeast and figured I'd spend a night in Denver to acclimatize before making my wy way to the trail. Thx, Bob

[@apumpkinsmom]

I'm just starting to research backpacking for future trips that I'm planning, including a PCT thru hike. I really appreciate the advice and tips that you are presenting. I've learned in a short time that there are as many preferences for equipment and accessories as there are hikers on the trail. I'm listening to everyone seriously to try and avoid unnecessary mistakes and spending my budget on things that will go to waste. Thank you.

[@shelbywalker-adams1682]

I can’t stress enough the value of a shakedown hike! Every year I go with my good friend who hikes slower than me. And we test out my new gear. She packs the tried and true. I pack the new fun gear to try out. We’ve had so much fun and made excuses to try out the silliest of equipment…. Like a new coffee drip! 😂😂😂

[@TheP0STMAN]

Dude wipes are a must. Lighter than a stick of deodorant and used for more things than clean underarms. I keep them in my pack, car, at work.

[@Notzen238]

I’ve done a few 100+ mile hikes but no multi- month hikes, so this is just my humble opinion. Your backpack should have a creature comfort or two. I personally bring books and headphones on long hikes because I sleep better after a read with some chill music. Long hikes are a life experience, so do what you can to ensure that you love it, even if your pack is a couple pounds heavier than it needs to be.

[@brandonviking8675]

Your perspective is so relatable. So many people I know go on 4-6 month thru hikes

[@timmo971]

I had a widget for a long time but hated its size and weight and now I got a flex tail zero. I love it. Thing is, yes it has just one (designed) purpose but I’ve used it many times to get a twig fire going and keep it going intensely and quickly which in turn has saved me lots of gas. It’s a game changer

[@rolfdenver]

After thru hiking the Colorado Trail, the Collegiate Loop and the Benton MacKaye Trail I’ve found my sun umbrella (which is also a rain umbrella, of course) to be very useful. I’m gonna take it on the John Muir Trail this summer too. I agree with you 100% on the 1/8” pad.

[@lonnierobin7347]

I've never done a through hike, only weekend / week long trips. I just can't seem to wrap my head around a chair. I do my best to keep weight down, of course on trail, you see them everywhere. I have a friend that bring a cot with him. He tells me that if I try it, I'll never hike again without one. I can't image the comfort out weighting the extra weight. For me, the extra weight for a chair is a deal breaker. Hats off to all who bring a chair.

[@mrwhirly0358]

How many camp chairs do I have to bring before what I’m doing is legally considered glamping?

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

One 👆

[@MrsStevenBrown]

Two chairs, two means you have kids or a fussy girlfriend lol! That’s GlamPacking! 😂

[@ifell3]

You probably can get them in the US, but we have ground coffee in tea bags (kinda) which is quick and still quite tasty.

[@isabelledrolet4297]

For short trips, I make my own with fillable tea bags from David's Tea and coffee grounds from home. Steeped coffee is surprisingly good. But I wouldn't do that for a thru hike. Between the bag and now wet grounds vs an empty packet of instant coffee, the choice is easy in what I would rather haul out.

[@fatherdamo2]

Use to use the aero press and now just use coffee bags, just quicker, smaller, more convenient and coffee tastes almost as good as aeropress

[@ifell3]

@@fatherdamo2 I do miss that creamy oily froth on top from squeezing that bad boy all the way down though 😁

[@billcannon6405]

The jet boil coffee press works great in the pot I got from you. Love the wood nob instead of the little metal triangle. Overall a well thought out piece of gear.

[@jbvertexx]

Love the video, especially the caveat (exception). I've had my eye on that pump and am likely to pick it up, as it's even lighter than the pump sacks. For coffee, I enjoy the Primula Brew Buddy at just over an ounce and packs flat. For a chair, I like the LiteSmith QwikBack at only 2.65oz, works well with the sit-pad. I also still enjoy using a small alcohol stove - the Zelph's Modified Starlyte with Qiwiz windscreen, the combo weighing just under an ounce. Something about the quiet flame of the alcohol stove I enjoy, and I don't mind the extra time to boil. At 3/4 oz of fuel per boil with a Toaks 550, it's efficient too.

[@varde6965]

I would love to see what you would bring on a short camping trip, 3-6 nights :)

[@klarsen100]

yes please!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Coming soon! 😉

[@joewinfree9814]

I bring a deck of cards, and sometimes a corona saw to build a good fire. 10oz of enjoyment 😅

[@Shaggy-intothewild]

As far as a seat, I have those super light foam fold up deals that you see all the time…..however, since I hammock, I now carry and would always carry, the Dutchware 2T’s hammock chair. With suspension, it only weighs 9.1 oz…..so I have a chair, gear sling for at night, it can also serve as a ground sheet, top cover, pack cover and wash basin. The only limitation is that you need 2 trees to hang and it’s not like you can drag those trees wherever you want to sit.

[@Archie-td6ox]

I did the GR11 last year through Spain. Awesome walk!. One "luxury" item I brought with me that I completely loved was my Therm-a-Rest Trekker Chair 290g. It's the best thing for relaxing in or out of the tent, and it made it easy for me to blog. Happy trails in Nepal!

[@makaicreative]

Less than 1lb is a great tradeoff for the chair. I used it as a test on a 4 day trip as I get ready for a JMT thru hike and it was worth it. I will let you know if I have regrets bringing it on the JMT.

[@passiveincomeadventures]

Agreed with all of these! Before doing a through hike, I had no concept that even boiling water to heat food would feel like "too much" most mornings and evenings. There's this excitement and anxiety to get out of camp in the mornings, or to lie down at night that we didn't want any "comfort" items, not even the kids wanted any! We just walked all day every day. Since finishing the trail we've been enjoying some camping chairs and more relaxed campfire time when hiking or camping, but hiking all day for max miles is totally different.

[@onfire0201]

You can buy empty tea bags. Fill them with you favorite coffee and that would eliminate the second cup and the filter device.

[@jamess7181]

As a hiker in my late 50’s I find my knees now get swollen and tight after a day in rugged terrain. Frankly I can no longer sit comfortably on the ground to do foot care, put on footwear etc etc. My chair has made my camp stops so much more enjoyable and practical.

[@billsmith3250]

Okay, when I was much younger (over 40 years ago) there was one thing I took on every peak I climbed that had a trail to the top: a watermelon. That includes Mt. Whitney. Did I need it? Definitely not. Was I crazy? Obviously debatable. It was just a seemingly dumb Idea when I was taking a different trail to the top of a peak to meet up with some friends. It was a hot day. There was some snow on top. They summited an hour or so after I did. Nothing tastes better than ice cold watermelon under those conditions. And the watermelons kept getting bigger (except Whitney, which was the smallest one I could find). Try it. It's the 11th essential when it comes to bagging a peak. 😊

[@E_Clampus_Vitus]

I think if it gets really windy, you can actually fold up your umbrella. Also, you can bring a sun hoody and an umbrella. 🤷 When using a tarp instead of a tent, the umbrella is nice for added bug protection with a net.

[@grantthepilgrim]

Love the Flextail, have used it on several walks now & I agree that it is so handy at the end of a long day.

[@brisketchick]

I'm not a thru hiker, but before I went on my first backpacking trip last year, I was convinced that I needed a chair. I'm old, hurty, and have a hard time sitting on the ground. However, I found that often I was in a space that was either unlevel, too soft, or both, and mostly just used it to pile stuff in as I was organizing gear. I've switched to using a foam sit pad, and if I"m feeling luxurious, I will bring a full sized closed cell pad which serves so many more purposes and still weighs less than the chair did.

[@theGooodMasher]

For whatever reason, I am very susceptible to sun sickness/poisoning. Super annoying because the sun is fun! But those solar umbrellas have some in super handy for me wherever I go in addition to a sun hoody. Fun video - nice list!

[@bird.1980]

From my experience, i dont use the umbrella much if barely at all, but in the case of a downpour, there is nothing better than having a umbrella

[@uncle_toobs]

the pad pumps are perfect for starting campfires!

[@E_Clampus_Vitus]

This is the only reason I’d like to try one.

[@RangerTam]

The Jetboil french press fits exactly in a 750 ml Toaks pot in case anyone needs to know! And yes to the pad pump. I have a slightly bigger model and am not ready to upgrade just to save a few grams, because I'm not out for more than 3-4 days. But I love my FlexTail. Mine is magnetic and has a light too. So it's really handy as a light on a vault toilet door (they tend to be metal where I live). My friend actually took his LAPTOP on a 3 day trip so he could work on his novel in the evening. I told him he was crazy and it probably weighed more than my backpack did alone. But it's what he wanted. I suggested a notepad and pencil haha.

[@canyonsteinzig3263]

pct with umbrella. invaluable mostly Sierra rain and hail but also desert sun

[@jeffschmitt7244]

Excellent video!!! I am right with you on the umbrella. But I was actually starting to sway to putting one on my pack list after watching video's from other thru hikers (ahem - DWL). Thank you for bringing me back to sanity, as I have 3L eVent rain garments which do the job quite well, and with a baseball cap & hood - keeps the rain off my head and face. I like your sit pad idea too. The only point I diverge from is the canister stoves. I think they're very convenient, but from a purely financial aspect the alcohol stoves work better for me. Also I have plastic fuel bottles I can re-use, so less waste there. Glad you're still doing these videos, as I trust your long distance hiking advice implicitly. I am still scratching my head on the Sea-to-Summit Reactor Extreme sleeping bag liners... what's your thoughts on those???

[@shabingly]

Electric pumps are also really useful to deflate if you use a SIM, which I do occasionally.

[@hyklyfmatto9714]

I fell in love with my flextail pump too. To exhausted to blow up my pad and the bag pumps are cumbersome, inefficient, take up more space and a little heavy.

[@buzzonedown]

I have two, and trail depending, l usually have one. An eno sub seven and the helinox chair. Short answer, im not 20 anymore, and getting off your feet and taking care of your back are worth their weight in gold. Fyi, that gossamer gear pad works in both when it gets colder.

[@ciscokid1999]

Totally agree after a long hike, I’m all aired out…lol, love my flex tail. Blows my xtherm in a pinch over a min….keep the vlogs comming Darwin

[@koribeyer]

I have the first flextail and love it. The pump sack is so annoying when you are exhausted and they say that blowing with your lungs promotes mold growing in your pad.

[@dadassery8506]

11:21 i love my gsi pour over. It takes a bit, but good coffee makes for such a good start to the day

[@cheefussmith9380]

The last thing? Setting up that chair in the first thing I set up. When you get out of your 20s and 30s, sitting comfy becomes a bigger priority.

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

For me the one thing that I will always bring with me is a large size first aid kit. The one I carry is about 1kg. It has everything that I know I will need, from a SAM splint to an Epi Pen. This is something I won't slim down except for the one I carry for trail running but even that one weighs 250 grams.

[@flyingmonk3y888]

?SAM... Surface to Air Missile? 🤔 Nice! I just carry bear spray myself 😁

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

@flyingmonk3y888 that would be nice to carry for bears but I'd think the Forestry Service would be worried about it starting a forest fire. 🤣

[@protectedlands2869]

I’m a second generation hiker and my dad always brought a bottle of wine (or 2) on shorter backpacking trips. To me thats absolute insanity but at the end of the day what you take is 100% personal 😂

[@jamesshepherd7727]

I take a tri leg stool instead of a chair. Nice to sit for eating or making coffee in my Aeropress. Yes the Aeropress has to go with every time. Yes I will make coffee that tastes good every morning. I use the steel filter so clean up is simple. If I could find an instant coffee that tastes great and doesn’t cost the same as a Starbucks I would consider switching. The stool is a must for me. Cant sit on the ground anymore because I have had 4 spine surgeries. So putting shoes back on the stool is a must. Plus its dry when I want to sit. I like that pad inflator. Never seen that one. Bye the way took the straps off of my hiking poles like you suggested. Never putting them back on. My trails have lots of elevation changes and the ease of putting your hand in different spots on the poles is great. I put the top of the handle in my palms going downhill and choke up on them going up. Without the straps its simple. Thanks for the great tip.

[@KenFernbach]

Like em both- use the one appropriate for the outing? Having both seems like a good idea if you can afford the price. . . .🌿

[@andreasweber7828]

I used to bring my SunnyBag LeafPro solar panel to recharge my powerbank. It works great and it’s considerably light weight but it really makes sense if you spend stationary time in the sun. It also works great on the outside of my backpack while hiking. But: only if the sun shines in the right direction ( don’t consider sobo hiking unless you love having a solar chest plate ) and I also prefer to camp somewhere shady ( suits my personality ) On thruhikes alike the AT you can forget about it completely. Next things on my not-to-bring-list are books, Bluetooth speakers and underwear ( I go comando for it’s the ultimate ultralight choice to go and at least in my case to avoid chaving ).The only moment in my life enjoying that state of mind

[@TheScottishKayaker]

I am so glad I am a kayak camper. I don't have to leave any of this stuff behind.

[@terrileacarlile6967]

great coffee alternative for camping or hiking is the coffee filters with ground coffee already in them, they hang over your cup pour in hot water and drink, better than instant and light weight too!

[@pennycarlson1943]

But aren't they kind of heavy once they are wet? I mean you have to carry them back out.

[@MoreOutdoorsPlease]

I haven't done a single hike yet lol but I'm collecting gear for when the time comes. I did delete the fancy coffee system I had in my cart before I saw this, but today I was set to buy an umbrella hhhmmm thanks for sharing.

[@kellycarlen9605]

Been using the Flextail Tiny Pump for a year or two now.

[@wolfeadventures]

Late night high pitch whirling noises coming to campsites near you. 😂

[@jamess7181]

Be interested in your view on hiking chairs in 20 years time. Mine has made all the difference to enjoying my hikes now my knees start swelling.

[@ScottKent]

Mostly agree...I did take a Big Agnus stool on the Florida Trail which allowed me to sit up out of the water in places (I also cooked on top of it a couple of times, and set my gear on it during a break a few times)...wouldn't take it on any other trail, but the the Florida Trail, it worked. As for coffee , the MontBell pour over filter is great, and in a pinch with really bad water (like sone of the Florida Trail) it makes a great prefilter...it also doesn't have all of the extra bits.

[@watch-Dominion-2018]

Do you use a windshield for your stove to make it more efficient?

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

do have one, but rarely use it

[@watch-Dominion-2018]

@@DarwinOnthetrail how come rarely?

[@johannasolesbee5647]

Darwin, great video, as always. Thanks I'm definitely keeping my instant coffee on the trail, anyways when I'm home, I use the coffee maker, lol . But when I travel to Colombia S.A. that's when I enjoy delicious coffee! 🎉

[@dianesoini]

I use the GSI pour over coffeemaker at home. It's so much better than using filters. I wouldn't bring it to the wilderness because of the leftover coffee grounds.

[@melaniegarden3416]

Agreed on chair. Only take it for shorter trips with the girls when we sit around socializing! Long distance/thru hikes: set up camp, dinner and bed!

[@JohnRichardsonJohnRichardson]

Totally disagree about the umbrella, based on my experience. I live by the AT and wouldn't be able to hike in the tunnel without it. Hiking in a rain jacket, even in a goretex pro rain jacket with pit zips, is miserable in 3 season weather. You need to get a sturdy one and practice using it. I have two that are 20+ years old. Do keep that rain jacket for when the wind kicks up above treeline.

[@jays7318]

Yay for umbrellas! I will never go back to sweaty rain jackets if I am below the tree line

[@orion7741]

thats why you dont use rain jackets, you use a poncho.

[@jays7318]

@@orion7741 I prefer an umbrella over a poncho

[@jarssonlaasso6599]

Chair is the best. Im fat and not agile, chair saves lives. I also like to use hammock, so at night is use the chair as a place to store my stuff off the ground next to the hammock under the tarp. Like a night stand. Love it.

[@VideoFiend1]

I take shorter hikes than you (generally 5 days) and my thoughts are: Flextail Zero, Chair Zero, BRS stove - I've tried all alternative and both are worth the weight and space or space penalty. Hat with bandana beats an umbrella (kind of nice in the rain but still wouldn't bring it).