PCT 2020 Gear Review - 12# Base Wt - w/Gear Links and Weights

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Hi everyone, I didn't get in to a whole lot of detail about why I chose (or didn't) the items I did - that would be an hour long video, haha. But I did put a lot of careful thought in to each item I am starting with and had the benefit of testing pretty much everything here on the PCT in 2019 - pretty much every night was close to freezing. I am keeping an Eagle eye on the weather trends for out West this Winter and will make any necessary adjustments to keep myself safe and warm. I know that leaving in early March can mean colder temps and storms. I left gloves out, initially, as I took them along on my hike in March and April this year and never used them once. I have short arms and my shirts and jackets hang off my fingertips so I just wrap them, if need be. I am well researched/mindful and will customize as I go. Maybe I should do some videos about the "systems" I chose, and why? I'm always looking for ideas so drop them below if you think a certain topic would be interesting. I am still working on dehydrated foods and recipes. My first video with the granola was fun but a LOT of work and didn't seem very interesting with my general audience so I am debating putting too much time in to that?!, hmmm. Much love to you all this holiday season. ~Condor List your video ideas below:

[@hikerJohn]

Yeah, Some people have 10 minute reviews for just one or two items . . . it will give you something to post about in the coming months to do a few more reviews without over doing it. ;)

[@asiam7436]

Tiki Bird Tracy I enjoyed the granola video. I just wonder how many people have the time to do all the work involved in dehydrating, packaging and shipping.

[@Swimdeep]

Solo Over 50 : I’m a vegan and am attempting PCT2020 and I’m working on the recipes, dehydrating, storage, etc. Planning for this trip is an investment in so many areas.

[@theskyehiker]

This is a general inquiry. I noticed your JMT video is no where to be found so it concerns me something went badly on your trip. No updates from your trip either. I’m just concerned.

[@graceh8559]

Hey! Thank you, your video was incredible helpful. Hiking the trail this spring.

[@wanderlustfrost9938]

Thanks for this! Currently finalising all my gear for my 2021 PCT thru hike so this was very helpful 🙏🏻

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you! So happy you enjoyed my gear video. Best of luck to you for 2021's prep and hike. Cheers!

[@shellyskye527]

It’s always so interesting to see other people’s ideas of what works for them. It always reminds me just how individual it has to be when making gear choices. Some of your choices would be terrible for me, but that’s what makes this whole thing cool. All my best and I’ll be following along. BTW, love your colors.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks Shelly, I think 🤔🤣... jk. I know what you mean though. I think the same thing. These videos are really just good for seeing what the hiker making the videos is taking on their hike and for getting a general idea of what gear you may need for your own, but the brands and styles are endless really. Gotta choose what works for you. Just like with anything we purchase. Thanks for following along💕

[@dougrogillio2223]

Sure am missing you !!!

[@vonrollveeg]

I wish you the best of luck. You certainly deserve it. I admire your planning. But, remember two things (I'm an old codger with many miles behind me): (1) you're doing this for your own satisfaction, no one else is depending on you - so, to complete or not to complete is less important than your satisfaction with your effort. Hike your own hike. (2) The gear inside your head is much more important than the gear on your back.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks Phillip! I agree with you 100%. I appreciate the wisdom and support 😊

[@michaelnejdl8245]

instead of using Sawyer O-Rings, switch to garden hose washer. They are the same size and have little nibs that prevent the washer from falling out of the filter. Also easier to find than the official O-Rings.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks for the tip! I’ll pick one up before I leave. 😁

[@barbarajhurne]

Excellent! What is the blend of spandex and polyester of your capris that you mentioned in the video. The link is no longer available. Thank you.

[@Kedger]

Perfect. Simply perfect. Regarding the cracked cuticles, I found that if I put some chap-stick on them at the first sign of cracking kept them away. I'd put a slight amount on my fingernail and then rub it up into the cuticles.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you! Yah, I used my chapstick, neosporin and bandaids (this is what usually works at home), and nothing helped. They were deep and painful. I'm curious to see if the superglue works. Or maybe a manicure before I hit the trail :D

[@shellyskye527]

PCT Trekking and Kedging - Rob and Ken 'Top Rock' Ditto on the chapstick. If the fingers get a deep crack, superglue works great.

[@harmonylight9760]

I use dr.bronners magic balm and it's great!!

[@trailheart1863]

Looks like a great set up 😃👍 Thanks for the tip about KT Tape vs Leuko, I’ve always wondered about that.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks for watching 😊

[@janetstarr9554]

Oh Yay! Your gear choices are really looking dialed in! You are going to have a great time! Enjoy!!!

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks so much Janet!! March is coming around quickly. Happy Holidays 😁

[@Jimbo-pm1dp]

Wow Condor.. .you are revved up and ready to go....great presentation....very thorough....looking forward to you leaving Campo...plan on following you again 2020...yippeee....if it gets cold in the Sierras remember to sleep with yur Sawyer and sox to keep it from freezing it can break that way....stay safe...getting xcited for you....great gear choice btw...Happy Thanksgivin to you & your family...chow !!

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks Jimbo! I hope you had a great Thanksgiving. Happy Holidays :)

[@JakeBoldtPoursPaint]

good luck!

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you Jake 👍😊

[@iamloved223]

Have you looked at the Victorinox 580? It has nail clippers, scissors, tweezers, nail file and a small knife and it's only 1.3oz

[@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING]

Best of luck on your PCT journey. Subscribed ✌️

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you 😊

[@vonrollveeg]

I also have a Garmin inReach. They're good. I've met two people that actually had to use it. It works. The screen will get more and more scratched up over time - to the point of being hard to read. I'd recommend using an old sock (that's what I use) or something to protect it. As long as it's not metal, it should not interfere with the radio.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

I used it for the month I was on the PCT this year and it was very useful for letting my loved ones know where I am/status. Hoping I never need it for an emergency but it does bring peace of mind! I did apply a screen protector. Hoping that does the trick.

[@DanDeveau]

Hey there.... you going out and hiking it in 2021? Hope so. Building my vlogs I want to watch this year at people's hikes....

[@hikerJohn]

I superglued a whole section of the bottom of my foot to make a shell over where a blister was forming. I learned that from the little girls that live across the street from me that are in gymnastics. I use baking soda for tooth past and you dont have to carry tums with it.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

That is cool. Yah, baking soda is good but I hate the aftertaste. Blech!

[@flashmanv3260]

Looks like a great kit you put together. I have used the same pack for years, mostly for my winter kit now. Very comfortable and dependable backpack. I would bring both knee braces to start, worth the few ounces if both kness act up a little. Enjoy your trip !

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you! I will probably bring both. I did use them proactively on the long descents when I was on the PCT for a month. Better to be safe 😁 Thanks for watching!

[@danielyacykewych4066]

Hi Tracy, please please tell me if your Circuit was a good size for you for your thru. Did u ever want more space? Does the gear in this video fit easily? Asking esp because of the Duplex and quilt. Any extra space? Super pack Tetris?

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Daniel Yacykewych The Circuit has been perfect for fitting everything I have and I still have plenty of room for the full food bag or Bear can inside when that is needed. 68 liters is a lot of space compared to what many of the new UL packs are these days. I do not feel I need any more space at all. I love this pack!

[@danielyacykewych4066]

Tiki Bird Tracy thanks for that. Enjoying your videos and reviews!

[@leslielane7225]

What happened to your JMT hike? Where have you been?

[@TikiBirdTracy]

I ended up doing a section hike of the JMT, from Tuolumne to Red’s Meadows. Life and responsibilities have put my videos on the back burner but I’m hoping to ramp things up again soon. I have plans to hike this year.... stay tuned!! 😀

[@leslielane7225]

@@TikiBirdTracy Good to know all is okay. Looking forward to following along on your next adventure

[@Jimbo-pm1dp]

Wow Tracy....looks like youve thought of everything...covered all the bases...thanks for sharing....your organizational skills will help any newbies thinking about doing any backpacking not just the big 3...I would just relax and enjoy...youre gettin close now....and looks like youre well planned...did you get your new phone....I think you said you were needing a new one !? Take care...relax....you can do this !!! Ps...I have the same neckknife with my initials...i like to thro it on just going for a walk...razor sharp...great for summer sausage or "whatever"....lol !

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks so much for a ll the kind words Jimbo!! YES!! I did get my new phone, I'm super excited to get back to Gov't Canyon to do side by side comparisons of the trail videos I've already done. Unfortunately, I came down with the flu this week so it will have to wait until maybe Sunday...or a few days more until I'm sure I'm recovering good. I'm not taking any chances, haha. I love my neck knife. Totally worth the cost and Patrick is a great guy. All the best my friend :)

[@Jimbo-pm1dp]

@@TikiBirdTracy ohh no....well were all cheering you on to shake that dang flu...wishing you a speedy recovery, you gettin back 100% is the important thing. So glad to hear you got your new phone...we'll be pulling for ya.....drink lots of oj lol....later...chow !!! 🤧😥👍⛺🥾🥣

[@Bamaonthetrail]

When you going to hike the pct.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Did you see my latest video? My start date is mid April :)

[@Bamaonthetrail]

Yes I did thank you for me mentioning me love your truck looking forward the build video

[@garrycollins3415]

Yes, gear reviews are great, especially from someone like you that has experience and tries new ways of doing things such as dehydrating your own food and toothpaste. I'm looking forward to following.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you Garry! I appreciate you following along :)

[@cybertrk]

For the pepper spray time yourself how fast you can get to it without looking. Ideally you should have it clipped somewhere easy like your shirt

[@richardmyracle6198]

Great gear list. Thank you.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you Richard :)

[@bcoolson]

Looks like a good set up. Happy Holidays!

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you!! Happy holidays to you as well :D

[@douglasmihalik867]

Hi Tiki, quick question - why did you choose to go in March? With food, water, gear - including camera gear - how much do you expect your pack to weigh when you leave Campo? Are you going to "saunter up" to Kennedy Meadows and give the snow time to melt, or hustle up before the snow melts and pack the gear you will need to handle the passes; or something in between? Thanks

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Not a quick question 😂jk....I wasn’t able to snag an April date but late March is good too. I can do lower miles, hopefully avoid injury sauntering up to KM, it’s cooler, possibly more water sources, and I plan to go through the Sierra however it presents itself at the time I get there. Unless it’s crazy risky. I will plan my gear accordingly when I get there. We really won’t know conditions until much closer to mid May/June anyways. My initial base pack should weigh 13.5 - 14.5 lbs. I’m still monitoring weather trends to determine if I’ll bring any other clothing to make sure I’m prepared when I leave Campo.

[@bawattsyl]

Douglas, they changed the rules to the permit this year, wherein you must hike directly through from Kennedy meadows to Sonara pass. You can resupply of course along the way, but regardless of snow they are no longer allowing flip flopping through that section. I'm guessing because of all the other trails, such as the JMT, e.t.c that are also very popular; were becoming overcrowded during certain times due to flip flopping.. as the JMT and pct run together for big sections.. as well as crossing each other in various places. And apparently if you do flip flop through that section it invalidates your permit. 😳

[@markcummings6856]

Excellent review, very thorough. Thanks for sharing.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks so much Mark :)

[@sydneyemley9551]

So excited to see you hit the trail again!! It gives me something to get through finals week for! :)

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you! Good luck on your finals!! My son is in the same boat next week :)

[@georgiamatthews2904]

Would you say a groundsheet is essential for a zpacks duplex? That'll be my tent for the PCT too but haven't invested in a groundsheet yet as I was hoping it'd be fine without.... Thank you for the video - I start April 11 - might see you on trail!

[@TikiBirdTracy]

I don’t think it is very necessary from all the comments from other hikers. The duplex floor is supposed to be sufficient. It’s more for insurance, so tent doesn’t get mud and damp soil stuck all over bottom (which happened most nights as moisture naturally in ground rises up). I do know it can be folded so dirty bottom is not touching rest of tent though. My polycryo sheet is also waterproof so it is added protection in a pinch and doesn’t weight very much. Honestly, I am still debating whether to bring mine now as weather is trending towards a drier Winter out there... but we’ll see if that changes. Dry = no, Wet = yes, for me.

[@Swimdeep]

I have the Sawyer mini-don’t love it but it’s okay. Really need to save money so I try to spend the bare minimum while maintaining practical “usability.” I like the updated gear list A LOT. So excited for you. I hav a new dehydrated recipe if you like Brussels sprouts. Let me know. 🌿

[@TikiBirdTracy]

No on the brussel sprouts, haha.

[@Swimdeep]

It’s a thing. I understand. I can’t help it-I love the little cabbages.

[@BobPritchard]

Hi Tiki Bird Tracy, I've enjoyed your vids. I'm heading out on March 15th and still looking to nail down my gear list. I wish I was as light as you! One question is on your Zpacks bear bag. It didn't seem that you had the throw bag/rope/carabiner. Do you foresee any need to hang the bag outside of the Sierra when there are trees around? Also, I've been contemplating a plastic odor bag(1-2 ounces) to put inside the bear bag to block/lessen the smell for rodents and other critters. You didn't seem to have that either. I hiked the AT in 2018 and it was a never ending battle to keep the mouse and critters away from my food. Thanks for your input.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Hi Bob! I do have the bear bag set up with everything I need to hang it. I used the Opsack odor proof bags last year on the PCT and the zipper never really worked that well for me or my hiking partner- I thought the same as you as far as blocking odor better. But the zipper issue defeated the purpose so I ditched it. I do have the Ursack major that I may use later up the trail but it does have some weight to it and the narrow shape is kind of a pain for me, haha. I haven’t had to deal with rodents yet but I can imagine I will be requesting my Ursack when that becomes a problem. You can try the Opsacks, maybe they’ve improved them or you’ll have better luck. I may get the small ones for my snack compartment and so I can keep midnight snacks close by me 😊 Best of luck to you, it’s getting pretty exciting!!!

[@tommckinney1489]

Great review, thanks for sharing. One big advantage you have is most of your gear has been field tested. I know you have to guard against "gear expansion" but you might want to think about some hot hand type warmer packets, especially for the Sierra. Not so much for your hands, but inside your sleeping bag to warm you up a bit.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

I have a whole case of the 10 hour Hot Hands for my birds at home - use them for shipping. I will add some to my resupplies for the Sierra and WA probably. Thanks Tom :)

[@Diddley_Squat]

I've done this a lot. One down in the foot box will thaw you're feet in under three hours. Haha

[@kuhnology8803]

Tooth paste dots...cool. Thank you for the gear review, well done. I always enjoy a good gear review. Some day I hope to be back on trail, planning, learning new tricks is helpful. Challenges, changes and happy trails!!

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks David! Your last sentence is perfect! Gotta be open/flexible with this entire experience. Glad to have you along with me on this journey :)

[@johneason6540]

Alltra has a lone peak 4.5 now. Haven't checked them out yet. I wear Olympus.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

I switched to Altra Timps and green Superfeet. Love this combo for me. Better support.

[@hikerJohn]

You know - you can change your permit so you are not starting so darn early but wil have to change it to start further north and if you can make it to Lake Moreno to camp in one day (not hard at all) you can start at the border anyway. You cannot flip with the 2020 permits or you will have to get a new "walk up" permit for the Sierras. It's no big deal to skip past the Sierras if you get there too early if you dont mind waiting in line at a ranger station to get a walk-up permit when you come back to do that section.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Hi John, yes, I am aware of all the options. I think I am good with the earlier start date. Though I may still try again in the January lottery for a bit later. Not 100% sure yet. I have plans in place to time/pace my hike to KM. It means shorter mile days...but that may be a blessing in disguise for me and a lot more enjoyable. More food carries though. I've been thinking about all this non-stop. Plotting and scheming :D Thanks for all your input, I appreciate it. ~Cheers

[@srmatte1]

Did you make the hike?

[@hikerJohn]

Even though I should be an expert at this by now (after 1,200 miles in both hot and cold weather) I just keep watching more gear reviews to get my weight as low as I can get it and still be comfortable. I handle the heat well but I hate being COLD so I'm still studying how to manage sweat and stay dry while hiking in cold wet weather. I guess we will have to carry a little more weight so we have dry clothes to sleep in those conditions. So far Ive been basically a "fair weather" hiker with just a few nights of freezing temps and only a few days (with no nights) of rain. I just havent tested any real bad weather yet.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

I hate being cold too! That's my biggest fear. And an important one so I'm okay with bringing designated hiking and sleeping clothes. I like my layers I have. I may still add my ligtweight windbreaker (4oz) because it seems to be the perfect insulator for me while hiking in cooler temps. The rain jacket makes me sweat sometimes. I'm still debating. Waiting to see the weather trends as I get closer to my date though. Figuring it all out is all part of the fun, right? :)

[@thuthiehiker]

Thanks for sharing. Great information. Is it possible to dehydrate food with sauce. Spaghetti sauce, Indian sauce with garbanzo beans? Etc.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Hi Susie, with the research I’ve done and my own experience, yes you can definitely dehydrate sauces. For backpacking preparation for long term storage I would keep the fat out as much as possible and add oil of your choice (ie, olive oil) back in when you rehydrate. It greatly extends shelf life. You may want to look up KZbin videos where they prepare spaghetti. I’ve done chili and it dehydrated great! If you’re on Facebook, there are Dehydrated Meals for Backpacking groups to join. They have a wealth of knowledge. I’m still very new to all of this but got the basics down. I experiment a lot. I recommend getting a vacuum sealer to further extend shelf life. Good luck!

[@barbarajhurne]

Great video! Thank you for the Kula Cloth Pee Rag idea. I just ordered one. I start 3/20/20 and I hope to see you you on the trail.

[@terrigonzales6661]

Thanks for all the Good info! I will be following your journey.

[@stevenvarner9806]

So... are you mailing replacements for some of these items ahead? I can't imagine the toothpaste dots, essential oil, and small amounts of other consumables as lasting very long. Also, why take both a torso length foam pad and the inflatable pad? The inflatable should be enough surely? A smaller Z-seat sit pad should suffice for sitting.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

In my most recent video I explained that I won’t be able to ship all my resupplies now due to husband’s new work responsibilities. He won’t be around enough to take packages to post office and I can’t put that stress on him, not cool. I would have sent these replacement items in those boxes. So...I am resupplying as I go. I loved having both the torso length pad and inflatable mattress- I got the short xlite so both together are still less weight than 1 regular size mattress. I hated the small sit pad I took on a shake down hike. The torso length still allows enough padding for laying back on during breaks, using as a wind break for stove, using for yoga/stretching. I am super happy with my choices. Ymmv, of course, as we are all different in our idea of what’s necessary of not. Happy trails 😊

[@thuthiehiker]

Thank you so much. I’ll check that out. I already have the vacuum sealer.

[@diamonddaveadventures4377]

Looking forward to seeing your videos on trail and maybe running into you with some trail magic in Big Bear. Stay Strong, Hike On Diamond Dave

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you so much ☺️🙏

[@hikerJohn]

I protect the tip of my scissors by cutting a plastic straw and pushing it over the tip and it stick great. Use a small straw like they have a Starbucks.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Great idea :)

[@TainoXtreme]

Very good video presentation. I liked it so much I just subscribed to your channel and gave you a like. Very good assortment of butt fancy backpacking gear. I wish I could afford some of that gear but, Unfortunately, I cannot. You have a very nice personality that makes your video very entertaining. What is your bag bag weight? I highly admire you for taking on this kind of long hiking trips. I wish I could do it but, unfortunately, I have a heart condition that does not allow me to do it plus I am a legally blind person who would need somebody to guide me all the way. I feel happy going backpacking on weekends though. Thank you so much for sharing this video. God bless you.

[@shellyskye527]

Two things 1. I love your colors! 2. congratulations on dropping 5 pounds. That is amazing. I tried to dehydrate tooth paste but it didn’t work for me. Too much humidity where I live. I hope it works out for you. If not, it’s possible to purchase tooth powder which is also light and tastier than baking soda.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks Shelly ☺️

[@philwestmoreland8127]

I love the dehydrated toothpaste! How long did it take to dehydrate, and does it eventually become just a big blob over time in the pack, especially in hotter weather? BTW, thanks for your gear video. Happy holidays!

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Hi Phil, I really think the dehydration time depends on the type of toothpaste you use. I only experimented with my Colgate original paste. I think the gel doesn't work from what I read. Mine took about 48 hours...in dehydrator initially, then out to air dry. It never hardened though. Was set...but soft. The baking soda keeps it pretty separated but yes, if it gets compressed over and over it may form a blob. I'll just pull off pieces in that case though :D I am only sending about 7-10 days at a time in my resupplies so hopefully it stays formed. Happy holidays to you too :)

[@philwestmoreland8127]

@@TikiBirdTracy thanks so much for your reply. Maybe if I put the dehydrated toothpaste in a light plastic tube similar to headache med tubes then it should hold up. I will have to research the weight savings on that. Definitely worth looking into this.

[@LaurenRoerick]

So exciting! What’s your start date? I’m heading out on March 7th :)

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Wow!! It’s fast approaching 👍 My start date is the third week in March. I can’t wait. Good luck in all your preparations 💕

[@pgreenx]

How the stove working out? Torn between the BRS and PR

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Love the BRS. Works great!

[@tommckinney1489]

i keep thinking about things....one other option on a bear can is to rent a Bearikade. I can get a week's worth of food in a weekender (similar in size to a BV500) and it weighs 31 oz vs 41 oz for a BV500. But it costs about 2x to rent it over the BV500 (and that's including the 45% discount Bearikade offers for a through hike). Just one more thing to think about :)

[@TikiBirdTracy]

That's a great idea! Thanks for the suggestion. I'll make a note of that!! :)

[@lorismith8479]

Where did you get the tiny lavender essential oil mini bottle? I like to take essential oils too but have not found anything that small....

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Here is where I bought mine. rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F142394100972

[@TikiBirdTracy]

I also have a few 2 ml sizes. The 1 ml are very tiny.

[@coryoverstreet865]

Great gear list! Thanks for sharing. 🥾☮️

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks for watching Cory 😁

[@stevenshaplin7478]

Hey Tracy, love the video! I tried that type of ground sheet this year on Pct. I didn’t care for it and switched back to tyvec. A couple of problems with it. Although it may be puncture resistant, it tears very easily. Second it traps moisture under it. Even in areas that seemed bone. dry in the mornings that sheet was muddy! 2020, I’m using a Zpacks ground sheet, more expensive but lighter than tyvec. Well that’s my two cents. Lochness

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Oh nice! Thanks for sharing your experience with the polycro. I may give it a shot but have my tyvek sent if the poly doesn't work out for me. Maybe I'll just use it for rainy weather to keep the mud off my duplex....

[@anotherpenny1942]

Great video. Do you have the name brand of your micro grid hoodie, or where you bought it? I am looking for something similar and of course Molly’s are next to impossible to find.

[@asiam7436]

anotherpenny1942 The Mellys can be found on their website. Melanzana dot com

[@anotherpenny1942]

Solo Over 50 , thank you but Melanzana does not sell online. Only in their store in Leadville. Or you can go on eBay and pay 2-3x retail.

[@asiam7436]

anotherpenny1942 Awh, that’s too bad. I was there this summer. I wish I knew about them then. I also wish them good speed if they are ramping up to sell online but that means no more lazy days in Leadville them.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Hi, The name tag on the collar says "Freeride Systems.com, Leadville, CO". I checked their website and I couldn't find any hoodies like mine. But they have a lot of different things to look through so maybe you'll get luckier than I....kinda pricey, haha. I bought mine from the thrift store about 4 years ago. Lucky find! Good luck finding something. Happy holidays and thanks for watching! :)

[@anotherpenny1942]

Tiki Bird Tracy awesome, thanks! Interesting that they are in Leadville too. I will keep looking for a fleece hoodie like that. Meanwhile I found an awesome long sleeve, lightweight hoodie that I love so I must recommend. It’s by a company called Oiselle, in Seattle. The one I bought is called the Luxe Hoodie. Sooooo soft and perfect weight for a cool day hiking, when you only need one layer. They advertise as running gear, but we hikers love the same styles and fabrics. Give them a look! 🙂

[@DebCampos]

Awesome Tracy! Very adequate to the timing you'll be starting. I'm gonna start 1.5 month after you. Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🦃🦃 😊😊😊!

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks Deb! Yah, I need to stay warm out there. I am not a fan of being cold. Happy holidays to you and your family :)

[@memathews]

Wow, you really cut down the pack weight this year. So baking soda is the secret ingredient I didn't use on my toothpaste dots? I ended up with one big moosh that I broke pieces off. Hahaha! Are you going to throw in a couple of 3x3 sterile cotton gauze pads? They came in handy last autumn on a rainy day when I slide on a hidden root and tore the skin off my left shin. Bled like crazy, so I covered it using gauze pads and tape, but the pads didn't cover a small section. Hurt like hell taking my pants off when I got home, that one little spot had stuck to the pants. So I jumped in the shower with my pants on and soaked the scab free. The gauze covered area healed better and faster than the spot that stuck to my pants, so the pads were worth the extra couple of grams.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

I have a ton of gauze here at home. I’ll probably add some to the kit 😊

[@toadevergreen2561]

Your dehydrated tooth paste dots look AWESOME!

[@gaylewalker4239]

Looks good. Keep trekking

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you Gayle :)

[@marcellae3999]

Good review. I love the dehydrated toothpaste idea.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you!!

[@felipecastellon4740]

Cool video. I'm trying to lower my base weight. I also have a field and stream shirt from a couple of years ago. Love it.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thanks Felipe!

[@sherry5130]

I am missing your post! Do you have a Facebook or Instagram. Even just small hikes

[@johneason6540]

How are you doing with your weight reduction? I know you stated you were working on it. How are your training hikes going, are you hiking everyday.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Doing okay until the holidays. Stalled with weight but still working out. No time to hike every day but getting in as many workouts as I can. Been a lot going on for our family too.

[@asiam7436]

Well done as always. Did you use your umbrella quite a bit? I have one but am not sure if I’ll take it or send to a trail angel who will ship to me if needed. Thanks again Condor!

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Thank you 😊 I did use my umbrella often on the long exposed stretches. I won’t go without having mine. I do love having instant shade anytime and I used it for inside of tent during extra windy nights... is a good draft blocker and keeps tent wall more reinforced.

[@asiam7436]

Tiki Bird Tracy Thank you!

[@asiam7436]

Tiki Bird Tracy Thank you!

[@tommckinney1489]

Oh, and good tip on the toothpaste. I've never seen that before.

[@tonelie3852]

Why does weight matter so much ? I mean seriously UL backpack has gone to far dont you think? I get that you want a light ride but in general it has gone to far imho.

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Well, 12 - 15 lbs is much more comfortable on my small body and joints when I hike long distance. And once I add 3 L of water and 5 days of food (avg) that can easily jump to 32-35 lbs...more for the longer stretches. I have arthritis in my left knee and the more weight, the more I risk injuring myself and making my hike less enjoyable. I can’t feasibly get lower without sacrificing too much and I am very happy at this weight. You can carry as much gear and weight as you wish. We are all different and I don’t judge/care what others choose to do. We don’t all need to buy in to the pressure to go extreme UL ( I am far from that), but it’s up to the individual, right? No one else is hiking this for me!!

[@GojiraNeko]

Pronounced “knock”... hope that helps. :D

[@TikiBirdTracy]

Yes!! Thanks 😁...I’ll try to remember this from now on.

[@trakyboy5128]

Good evening Tracy. It's turkey day Eve and best regards to you and your family !!! Well Tracy ur setup is impressive. You've put a lot of thought into it.😄. So here is a few points or observation. 1. I've never seen toothpaste dehydrated very clever Tracy.( Did you come up with that on your own? ).2 the weight loss is really starting to show in your face. Please save some fat for the trail.. LoL 😅 3.. I used the same superfeet that you do the green ones, how many miles do you think you get out of it's ???? Mine seem to last forever but I have never used them on a thru-hike. 4.... This is my big one. And I hope you will seriously consider what I'm asking.....1st find some trails that you can connect to make at least a seven-day route and do it.this will give you a better feel for your entire setup rather than all day hike or an overnight camp. 2nd.... Just before your trip cut your hair.... As short as you are comfortable with. 3... Squats, deep knee bends, and if you have access to a bicycle ride fast and hard but it's not about the distance. It's about getting your body condition to feed oxygen to your muscles which you cannot do during short or all day hikes w it pack on....the pace is to slow. Anyway it's all totally up to you of course. But I wanted to share some things that I feel that would truly improve your trail experience ( having dated someone who trains for triathlons, these are things she thought to be very important ) Take it for what it's worth Tracy, but I really just want you to succeed and to know what it feels like to have done it. Some things r ineffable when it comes to trail life and I want you to 'know' these things. It is transcendental. May you " know " the trail and all that she loves to share with those who are willing. So, peace my friend, and may you own every moment out there 🤗☺️😃

[@TikiBirdTracy]

You are too funny! Thanks for all your helpful input but I am NOT cutting my hair, nope, no way, lol! Those other gals can shave it off if they want, not my cup of tea. I love my braids and pony tails and it was never a bother when I hiked for four weeks straight this year. I am getting lots of varied and great workouts in. I feel great about all the work I've put in so far. It's paying off! As far as the Green Superfeet go, they seem to last me for about 450 ish miles... but that is training at home only, not actual trail miles - so I will still need to see how they work on the PCT next year. I used them for 266 miles this year out there on the PCT and they were still great. Thanks for all your encouragement and support, Happy holidays :)