The Biggest Danger of Bikepacking?

[@pootlingalong8928]

I’m a female in my 60s. At the age of 21 I loaded all my camping gear on to a very small Welsh mountain pony called Grace and we walked the South Downs Way together. Never knew where we’d sleep each night, I just knocked on farmer’s doors and asked if we could bag a corner of a field, was never refused. That walk changed my life, although it would be many years before I could take 6 weeks off work again. Forty years! I did LeJog in 2021 with all the camping gear strapped to my 3 speed Brompton. It completely reaffirmed my plans for retirement. Bike packing - long trips of several weeks, short weekenders, but lots of it. I’ve now subscribed to your channel. 🙂👍🏻

[@JethroJessop]

Wow, sounds like you have had some truly amazing adventures! And many more in the future. When I rode the Pennine Bridleway I thought often about the practicalities of actually doing it on horseback and whether horsepacking is a thing that people still do. I know people bikepack with a dog sometimes and always seem to get a lot out of that relationship and I can imagine that actually sharing the load with a horse would be an incredible experience.

[@curlcurllocal]

I love that you packed a snorkel on a backpacking trip to Scotland. Sounds like me when I go camping, I bring every single toy that will possibly fit. Then I get there and wonder why I brought two cricket sets and a miniature pizza oven.

[@JethroJessop]

Yeah it was not a wise packing choice. I'm much better now though I do still travel heavy compared to most but these days it's mostly food. I did carry a snorkel with me when I rode Nice to Marseille a few years later and that time it saw a lot of use!

[@garycook8220]

Bog snorkelling is a thing

[@minf0070]

I too, am infected. My life has become nothing more than an obstacle course of things that prevent me from getting on my bike every day. When I can’t, I watch other people ride their bikes on KZbin. I thank you for your service.

[@JethroJessop]

Nice to know I'm not the only victim of this plague ;) I only hope that I can keep finding more and more time to do rides and make the videos to help my fellow sufferers through the hard times! Thanks for watching, I really appreciate it

[@conradyork2178]

“It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to.”

[@JethroJessop]

That's the one! Such a good way to think about it. I love that quote.

[@kirkrobertson2099]

Yes and yes. Experiencing this now. Just came off tour 6 mo ago in the states. At 52 kids are raised and living on their own. Took an apartment settled into a job. Scared to get stuck. The road keeps calling me back.

[@JethroJessop]

Its a tricky one to manage for sure. There is something about that lifestyle that gets its teeth into you and doesn't easily let go. I hope you find a way to get out there again soon.

[@andyh126]

Powerful words….beautiful

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you, I'm really pleased you enjoyed it

[@Earlofmar1]

Glad to see someone living their best life. No one ever says as they near the end of their life, ''I wish I had spent more time in the office''.

[@JethroJessop]

It's the truth. Sometimes you just have to shake things up and see what falls out. I shall keep you posted on how things are going after my little shake up 😉

[@johnrowe603]

And there was me thinking it was just me who feels like this? I'm an old boy now but 50 years of cycling hasn't dimmed the enthusiasm and the freedom! Great video!

[@JethroJessop]

Never too old to be thrilled by a good adventure. I can't see my views of it changing massively as move on through the years. Glad to hear that there are so many others who feel the same. thanks for watching and keep on riding!

[@renan3916]

great story brother, recently I made a 3 day (100km) trip with my brompton and I can say that all you said is true, now I have the virus

[@JethroJessop]

That sounds awesome :) I once crossed paths with a whole gaggle of folk (think I was up in Scotland) who were doing a multi-day Brompton tour. I imagine it comes with some unique challenges. What was your route?

[@seatactom2720]

Well said. Thanks.

[@JethroJessop]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. I was quite proud of this one

[@blackr0se]

As one of those who did watch the whole thing, i think this was a fantastic video. I have never bikepacked, but love your way of translating your experiences from bikepacking into the freedoms you have experienced and continue to seek out. This video was very touching in a way which is hard for me to even describe.

[@JethroJessop]

Then I hit the mark with this one. I couldn't ask for a better response, thank you. I think the idea can easily be translated to things other than bikepacking, it is just about freedom. About feeling like you are in control of your own journey and making the most of the short time we all get in the universe. Thanks for watching and for the kind words.

[@TheCycleProf]

Thanks. Love it. 74 now, preparing for my next bikepacking trip. You brought back memories. I hadn't considered how the weeks of cycle touring (or canoe travel) occupy such a large part of my life story. For whatever years the Lord gives me I'll carry on.

[@JethroJessop]

No better way to spend the time than out there in the marvelling at it all. Glad you enjoyed the video. Good luck on the next trip

[@jimmccorison]

At 45 my wife and I "quit life". We bought an older boat which we fixed up, sold everything, and took off cruising for a year. One can't help but be changed by such an undertaking. Did it lead to a life of cruising? No. But it did change, for the better, who we were and what we wanted out of life.

[@JethroJessop]

Sounds amazing! I think it is probably unusual for something like that to result in a life of the same but as you say it changes your outlook and your perspective and flavours everything else from that point onward.

[@jefff1416]

Wow! One of the best bikepacking videos I’ve seen. You simply lull the viewer in and then calmly pull apart the heart strings for anyone with a yearning to go out and do just what you’ve done. I’m a 67yr old retiree who’s done some touring and am just getting my feet wet with bikepacking. While I couldn’t have articulated my feelings anywhere as well as you have done here, I felt much the same after my first overnight trip to a park near my house. I’ve been considering joining my younger brother on a cross country (US) ride next year, and after watching you, I don’t know why I wouldn’t. Why would I miss out on such an epic adventure given that I have the time, health and resources to make it happen. Thank you so very much for posting this!

[@JethroJessop]

We'll than you! That is high praise indeed 😉 I'm glad you enjoyed the video and I'm even more glad that you took exactly the message from it that I had hoped to get across. You should absolutely do the C2C. Ride it how you want to ride it and it will be an amazing adventure that you'll never forget. If you do then let me know how it goes!

[@grahamhaines9931]

It’s all about desire. That is what keeps us going, despite previous disasters and poor weather. We continue to return hoping to find what we’ve had before.

[@JethroJessop]

Indeed. Always searching for something even if most of the time we aren't sure exactly what it looks like.

[@rustybrockmann2344]

This was one of your best. I think you once referred to this kind of “monologue” as the “philosophy of the wheel” or something like that. I found it compelling, honest and moving. I’ve always enjoyed your poetic, reflective side, but this one caught me, happily, by surprise. Thank you, I’m going to share this with my cycling friends as another means of explaining the magic of the wheel that moves me too.

[@JethroJessop]

Philosophy of the Saddle ;) I did indeed. There is no better time for mulling over the intricacies of the universe than whilst out on a long bike ride. I'm very pleased that you enjoyed it and pleased that it isn't just me who got caught by the bug. Please do share if you know someone who might like it, I'm always fishing for views ;)

[@lutterop]

One of the best on KZbin...truly inspirational...thx!

[@JethroJessop]

You are too kind, thank you

[@mountaingator001]

THANKS JETHRO FOR SHARING THIS WITH US/ME. I AM 76 YEARS OLD AND TWO YEARS AGO I BROKE MY LEG AND AT MY AGE I DID NOT HEAL VERY WELL…BUT I AM ALIVE AND I LIVE WITH MY WIFE IN A BEAUTIFUL WOODED WONDERLAND CALLED TENNESSEE. I MAY NEVER RIDE A BIKE AGAIN BUT I HAVE A POWERED WHEELCHAIR THAT ALLOWS ME TO ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF THE WOODLANDS. SOON WINTER WILL TURN INTO SPRING AND I WILL ENJOY THE WONDERS OF MOTHER NATURE AGAIN. I JUST WANTED TO SAY THANK YOU FOR ALL OF YOUR EFFORTS IN BRINGING THESE GREAT VIDEOS TO US!👍🙏❤️

[@JethroJessop]

My pleasure! Bring on the springtime I say and adventures of any kind. It doesn't matter how far you go, or how fast, as long as you get out there and enjoy it!

[@oldmanpennyboarder1302]

I think this type of storytelling is the most meaningful and entertaining because it is honest, genuine, thought-provoking, and the content likely rings true to many people. I think having a passion for anything that inspires you to wake up every morning, get out of bed, get dressed, and spend the hours of your day actively engaged in the fantasy and/or engagement of that passion is what makes life meaningful and worth living.

[@JethroJessop]

Absolutely. Spot on. It doesn't matter what it is as long as inspires passion in you. It is too easy to let the days trickle away doing very little either spiritually or physically. Just being consumed by the routine. I tried to be as honest as I could about my own experience in this one. It was a little nerve wracking for that reason but I really enjoyed making it and I'm really pleased that you enjoyed it.

[@AndrewBrown-em3ti]

I love all of your content but will happily confess that your reflective pieces are by far my favourite pieces. There’s a part of all of us that yearns to walk away from the expected norms and to really experience “life” in its truest sense. It’s quite beautiful to think that a bicycle has the power to shape your life and personal philosophy in such a profound way. Thanks, as ever for the content.

[@JethroJessop]

My absolute pleasure, I'm very pleased that you enjoyed it. I think the humble bicycle has a part to play in shaping everything from my own personal philosophy to the future or the human race. I always enjoy making these Philosophy of the Saddle type videos and after the good reception this one has had I think I'll do some more soon for sure

[@graham4885]

@@JethroJessop it reminds me of the book novel 'Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance' which talks about the Quality of things, Gumptionology and the journey being more important than the result.

[@JethroJessop]

@@graham4885 that's one I've never read though I know the title. All sounds like my kind of nonsense though so I'll take the comparison with a smile and a thank you 😁

[@StarEssences]

Small sized (Tiny) homes are good for people who are out and about the majority of the time, such as yourself as you love to travel on your bicycle. Tiny homes can even be customized to your specifics too. Thank you for sharing about your perspective on adventure traveling on a bicycle. I believe that a lot of people could really learn a lot about LIFE, maybe discover God, and learn about various cultures, and your place here on earth as your own individual. Happy bike traveling :) My bike touring is accomplished as for a retreat from city living as I had moved here to Las Vegas as of Oct. 2021, but born and raised in San Diego, Ca.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you for watching. It's great to get views from so many different folkz with different perspectives from all over the world. I did love the tiny homes philosophy and I'd embrace it except for the fact that I am such a messy person. I know people who live in vans and boats and I love the lifestyle but know I would never achieve the desired level of organisation for it not to be complete chaos 😉

[@solsouth]

Well done a great video, I can totally relate. You have an amazing way with words. It should be one of your most watched videos.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you. It is probably up there in my list of most watched, not at the top yet but it's climbing steadily. I was surprised, I honestly didn't think it would go down so well but there are obviously a lot of folk out there who share the same feelings. Your good self included, thanks for watching :)

[@AwesomeAngryBiker]

Bike touring is a learning experience, you learn from each trip, what to bring, what to leave,how long to go before stopping etc etc

[@JethroJessop]

Very much so. Every ride is different and every ride improves the next one.

[@Eric-rt6tg]

Nicely told story about your own experience with cycling. I think you expressed exactly what feeling free can do to a person. I think you have a talent for telling stories Jethro.

[@JethroJessop]

I do love story telling and did really enjoy doing this one though I was a little nervous about how it would go down. fortunately everyone here seems to be in agreement, which probably shouldn't come as a surprise ;) Glad you liked it

[@LookingBackAdventures]

Wonderful video! I am happy that you took that exit off the highway of "normal life" for a bit and on to the bike path. You have wonderful content that is helpful and like this one inspiring. Thank you!

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you. I'm really pleased you enjoyed the video. I'm happy with the direction I took as well. Its lead me to many fine adventures and hopefully many more still to come. If I can offer any kind of inspiration to others along the way then that is the icing on the cake!

[@timevans9195]

I really enjoyed your video Jethro, very insightful and yes bike packing/touring is quite compulsive. It gives such a great feeling of adventure and freedom, but you can still get married and commit to a mortgage!... my Wife, Bridge and I managed to get out and explore on our bikes, even when we had kids. We had memorable trips by train and bike to France and Scotland when the kids were really young - wild camping on the Scottish islands with a 3 and10 year old was a hoot. I’ll never forget my young daughter spotting a minkey whale on a Calmac crossing!. We also went for over-nighters from home locally...Those kids are both now in their 20s and thankfully we’ve passed on to them our lust for adventure. Bridge and I were planning to bike tour the world but she was diagnosed with a neurological condition which prevented her from solo-cycling, so we bought an old tandem which enabled us to carry on exploring and still go for over-nighters. Sadly she died in March, but I’ve tentatively started going out for small bike-packing trips. Strange at first being on your own, I still talk to her as I’m cycling along, but actually I needn’t bother as loads of people stop and talk to you and ask about your trip, it’s really nice. What’s more just being out on your bike travelling without a care in the world, I dunno it just feels good and for me is a great healer. I’ve just got a senior rail card!..so am now planning lots of trips and adventures for the future. Keep the videos coming,they’re brilliant...Bridge was a big fan!

[@JethroJessop]

I'm really sorry to hear that, she sounds like an amazing lady and I'm sure she would get a real kick from seeing you out on more adventures. I'm always impressed by families who get out and do long trips like that together, I think it must be so valuable. Though we didn't go off touring together my parents are both very outdoorsy and brought me and my brother and sister up the same way, teaching us curiosity and wonder and respect for the world. You can't beat it. Keep planning the adventures, keep getting out there and exploring, it is as you say, a great way to heal and to work out how you feel about anything and everything. I will absolutely keep the videos coming and hope you continue to enjoy them. Next time I've got a drink in my hand I'll do a toast to absent friends with you and Bridge in mind. Safe travelling my friend.

[@timevans9195]

@@JethroJessop thank you, that’s lovely.

[@nigelmccomb8106]

I’m 71 and have been road cycling for the last 15 years (I cycled a lot as a young man). I just finished a 5 night 300km bike packing through the Rockies on the KVR trail . It was my first bike packing experience and I learned a lot. Even at 71 it was an adventure which I enjoyed deeply. I am planning my next ride for the late spring. 👍👍

[@JethroJessop]

That sounds amazing. I'm really glad you had a good trip. I enjoy the planning part almost as much as the actual ride. I love going over maps, building routes, finding interesting things along the way. I plan more rides than I could ever possibly do in fact 😉 What are you looking at for your next one?

[@nigelmccomb8106]

@@JethroJessop I love the rail trail grade , very manageable. My goal is to ride as many of BC’s rail trails as I can.

[@JethroJessop]

@@nigelmccomb8106 nice to have a selection of options to tick off slowly. The visceral thrill of adventure blended with the nerdy pleasure of a good list 😉

[@DonRousselPhotography]

I went on my first bike trip with a friend when I was 15. We didn't have a clue what we were doing, carried everything in backpacks. Had a sore back and arse the entire time and enjoyed every damn minute of it.This week I turned 60 and I'm planning a 500 mile mostly wilderness trip next summer in Eastern Canada where I live. Throughout my life I haven't done nearly the amount of cycling I would have liked but the addiction has never left. I really enjoy your monologues and I'm glad I discovered your channel.

[@JethroJessop]

That sounds like a fantastic birthday trip. I've watched a lot of videos of people riding in Canada and it looks really spectacular. I am jealous. Happy birthday and I hope the plan all comes together nicely for you. Gotta feed that monkey no matter how long its been since the last meal ;)

[@franksandhamable]

I love these posts where you philosophically ramble-on about the joy of just dropping everything and pedalling off! I never had the guts to jack-in my job and just take-off, I wish I had. On the point of packing a snorkel, I remember very nearly taking a travel iron on my first trip! Luv the channel keep em coming!

[@JethroJessop]

I watched back one of my early videos recently and there is one shot where I do actually have a snorkel in my backpack! It didn't travel with me for very long but those clear swedish lakes are actually good fun to snorkel in. I wish I had the guts to do the same again to be honest but it seems like a bigger deal now I'm in my 40s. Dunno why. I joke about it in these videos but it is true that if this channel and the ko-fi page generated anything even close to a living wage I would I would be gone again in a heart beat! So I appreciate the kind words and the views. Each is one small step towards an even greater freedom ;) Thanks for watching

[@alafenetre81]

That's how I feel about biking. I've always thought that travelling by bike could be very nice, but had never tried to, until last September, when I had the opportunity of a biking trip week with a friend. I came back exhausted, smashed, but what a discovery! Now I think of my next ride every day (yes the infection is here!). This is the rhythm of travel that is best suited to me, and it's such a great way to meet people and feel I am part of every thing :-)

[@JethroJessop]

That's the payoff for sure - exhausted but enriched! There is something about that is just perfect. As you say, the rhythm of it, the pace, I don't know what but it hooks you in and doesn't let go.

[@adamnovina2139]

That was more in 18 minutes, than all the bikepacking trips i've seen on videos. There are more feelings and truth about life in general . Thanks. PS greetings from Poland

[@JethroJessop]

Greetings back from the UK! I'm really pleased you enjoyed the video and thanks for the kind words, they mean a lot 😀 These monolog videos are quite nerve wracking to release so it's great when I get nice feedback on them

[@JohnMason-Hill]

I never wanted this video to end. Feelings so well expressed. I am just getting back into biking after being away from it for 30 years. I feel like a kid in a candy store again.

[@JethroJessop]

I'm really pleased you enjoyed the video, it was a fun one to make. And great to hear you are enjoying two wheels again. It really is an amazing way to travel and to see the world. I'm setting off on a 10 day ride on Sunday so there will be more videos coming very soon! Thanks again

[@JasonBrozic]

So awesome to hear Benedict Cumberbatch use his Sherlock temperament to tell us about his story along with potentially warning us about where our own journeys may take us…. 😁

[@JethroJessop]

Don't give away my secret identity! Hollywood pays the bills but these videos are my real artistic vision ;)

[@emrebasala3060]

I watched this 4 months ago and it stayed with me. Made me feel excited about bike touring. warmed my heart. Back then, I had zero bike touring experience, maybe one day ride. Now I am in the middle of my first big bike touring trip from London to Lake District. Watching again. I think this video will be one of the videos that one need to revisit once in a while and appreciate again. Thank you for this.

[@JethroJessop]

Wow, that sounds like an amazing trip! I hope it is going well and you are having a great time on the road. What route are you taking? I'm very pleased that you got something positive from this video, I hope it does indeed stand up to multiple watches. Safe riding 😀

[@emrebasala3060]

@@JethroJessop I am following NCR 6, currently at Sheffield, tomorrow big climb day to Peak District. I think your video captures the beauty of being on the bike, the freedom it gives and what matters is the journey not the destination. inspiring and poetically told.

[@JethroJessop]

@@emrebasala3060 nice, the first of a few big climbs I expect? It all gets pretty hilly from there on doesn't it? Good luck, I hope the weather turns out for you and the legs stay willing

[@Biking360]

What a great story. Cycle touring definitely gets under your skin and is something that's hard to shake off. I'm happily infected and hope to stay that way.

[@JethroJessop]

The ultimate goal is to be hooked and have the freedom and opportunity to indulge your addiction. Keep on pedalling!

[@dalj4362]

Wow...when you said about not wanting to commit to anything because it might get in the way of the next trip. It totally summed up how I feel at this moment. Are you always a deep thinker and constantly thinking? I'm constantly over thinking everything in my life and it really does wear me down.

[@JethroJessop]

I dunno if I'm a deep thinker really. I enjoy thinking and trying to work out why I think the things I think and how else one could view things. But on the whole I'm fairly relaxed in my approach to 'real' life. I could probably do with thinking less about this kind of stuff and more about everyday, important stuff ;) I've been lucky though. Life dealt me a good hand and I've managed to drift along fairly successfully thus far and have got into the, possibly dangerous, mindset of believing that will always be the case.

[@graham-kirby]

I love these poetic musings they are so easy to listen too. I have always had a desire for travelling but never really fulfilled it, following all the paths you did not and just to state have been very happy. However under the surface there has been this little itch to wander more than a day in the hills, now I am 60, this year my wife came up with the idea of cycling from Ravenglass to our home in NE Northumberland, not losing in nice warm B&B’s with showers and comfy beads, we would take tents. At 60 I thought she was nuts, not in riding the bikes but taking tents, sleeping on hard surfaces, really. But planning went ahead, kit was ordered and the journey began. Six days latter we arrived home having climbed hills, skirted costal plains, fallen asleep in out food and the first topic of conversations was, so where next, The way of the roses? So who knows where this will lead. Your quote for J.R.R Tolkiens amazing stories is so apt. “It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings

[@JethroJessop]

And just like that, another innocent soul succumbs to the bug ;) Sounds like an awesome trip - there are some big old hills in the way on that one! I'm sure that even if it had turned out bad and you hadn't enjoyed it I think the experience would have been worth something. But I'm glad you had a good trip, if you are going to get hooked on something you could do a lot worse than bikepacking. Glad you enjoyed the musings, I think there will be more of this coming soon. Thanks for watching.

[@graham-kirby]

@@JethroJessop Thanks Jethro, I’m sure we can hold you partly responsible for the idea along with one or two other world bike touring channels. 😀

[@JethroJessop]

@@graham-kirby I'm very happy to take even a small part of the blame for that one 😉

[@scottjantzen7]

Fantastic video. I just turned 60 and am planning a few local overnight trips with a longer one beginning to take formation in the back of my mind. I did my first overnighter with my two older brothers when I was about 8 years old. We biked to a local campground, pitched our tent, gathered firewood, and had a great time until our dad dragged us out of our tent in the middle of the night during a huge thunderstorm. We hadn't even woken up. Mom was worried and told him to go get us and bring us home. It was strange to wake up in my own bed.

[@JethroJessop]

Nice to sleep so soundly in a tent. After hard days of cycling I've slept through thunder and fireworks in the past just because I was so tired. I'm glad you liked the video. It was a fun one to make and a surprise success for this channel. It seems like a lot of people feel the same way about bike trips. Good luck planning the trip. Where are you thinking of heading to?

[@ridesrambles8903]

I think a lot of us knew from the title, where this would go. Great to hear a little more of your backstory, and lovely job of editing.

[@JethroJessop]

Yeah, not the most subtle title really but hopefully the story was enjoyable even with spoilers. Glad you enjoyed it

[@bitterleafcastle1552]

I'm 27 and only just getting into bikepacking, and this video was really inspiring! Love your poetic delivery, it's always interesting to find out what you have to say. Hope your channel grows and you get the popularity you deserve!

[@JethroJessop]

I was a bit older when I went on my first tour, 33 I think. I wish I'd started younger, imagine the places I could have seen! It's a fantastic lifestyle, dive in, enjoy it, live it. Suck the marrow from the bones of life :) And thank you for watching, I'm really glad you enjoyed it!

[@kellylaws5879]

NEW SUBSCRIBER HERE! I don't know how I found you but I'm glad I did. LOOOOOOVED this content. Getting ready to take my first bike trip.....now I'm feeling a bit apprehensive because I believe it will change me forever.....and my roots at home run deep.

[@JethroJessop]

It will be fine, you will have a fantastic time. It may change you forever and those changes will likely be for the better. Embrace it, enjoy it, the future will be what it will be. Where are you heading on your first trip?

[@bikenergy6688]

Awesome video, I couldn't stop watching it until it ended. I think that we, bikepacking adventurers, can somehow relate to your story, thank you for this little jewel

[@JethroJessop]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. I've been amazed by the number of folk who responded to this one. Seems like there are a lot of us out there - the wandering bike poets of the world 😉

[@forestchunk]

So glad this video came up on my feed, never seen your page before. Watched to the end and subbed, as I love your philosophy on biking. I’ve had several profound times on bikes that’ll stay with me to my grave. I’m nearly 49, and like you, I can’t really remember not riding some sort of wheeled thing - my Tonka truck, trike, Raleigh Budgie, Raleigh Roadrunner, my first “proper” road bike at 13… the list hasn’t stopped growing lol. But it doesn’t matter the bike, a few hours out and about, perhaps stopping to make a brew or take a few pics can make a huge difference to how you’re feeling. Awesome stuff.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you, I'm really pleased you enjoyed it and agree with it. Also, thanks for the sub and the kind words, I appreciate the support. I'm in a slightly quiet patch when it comes to uploading at the moment - life, winter and impending Christmas have all conspired against me - but I'll be back on it soon. Not all my videos are these rambling monologues but I really enjoyed making this one so I'll do some more for sure but hopefully you'll find enough here to convince you to stay subbed ;) Thanks for watching

[@brettmc7983]

Thanks Jethro, you put into words the affliction I have been suffering from for the past 15 years. living and breathing my work life whilst planning my next solo time away.

[@JethroJessop]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. I hope your affliction is not causing you and suffering 😉

[@madisondeans5566]

I appreciate this talk,as I have the same apprehension of commital to anything other than bike touring!when I retired officially, I've been riding nonstop (til covid hit)preparing now to be off indefinately!🤗👌

[@JethroJessop]

I'm glad you liked it. Where will you be heading to on your indefinite journey?

[@suebattemplespa7014]

Love your musings, keep ‘em coming’

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you! I will do my very best ;)

[@chookiessss]

Great video! It's interseting how experiences such as these can pull you out of a coventional way of thinking and make you question how you really want to live your life. It can make everything all upside down, but eventually you realise there is no right way up XD.

[@JethroJessop]

Very , very true. There is no normal, no right way. Or if there is I'm still looking for it ;)

[@Charlie-sr6dv]

Excellent. Loved that. You nailed it. One of the best videos on the honey trap that first multi-day tour can become! Really good to hear your back- story and the consequences of that first big adventure.

[@JethroJessop]

Glad you enjoyed it. It was a fun story to tell and the response has been great - so many folk seem to relate. I dunno if I'll ever fully get over that first ride. Even if I never went out on a bike again it would be an influence somewhere in the back of my mind

[@Mister_G]

Cheesy? No, I don't think so. Poetic? Yes - very much so. In fact the whole dialogue sounded like a poem. I really enjoyed that, thanks.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you! I'm really pleased you enjoyed it (I really enjoyed making this one). Be careful though, comments like this are fuel to the fire, I'll be getting more and more poetic with each video. Before you know it this will become an experimental dance channel ;)

[@Mister_G]

@@JethroJessop :D

[@jimbojet8728]

Excellent reminiscing Jethro, very enjoyable. My own memories aren’t quite so enjoyable. I longed for a bike all through my young years, what young man didn’t? I was one of 6 children in a not affluent mining family and so my mother, just deafened to my pleadings. My pals all in large families, were in the sane boat as me. Our parents needed every penny to feed us, they weren’t going to waste their hard earned on ‘toys’! We ‘found’ old bikes, raided a local scrap yard and put together various heaps of dangerous junk that we could pedal along on. Stopping was never a problem! I left school for the Army and forgot about bikes. My attention turned to motor scooters and cars, and of course the beautiful opposite sex ha ha! I did manage to acquire the odd bike at different points in my military career, mostly because i couldn’t afford a car. Leaving the Army, I needed some sort of physical activity to pursue and turned to bikes again. I noticed how expensive they’d become, £400 stumped me! I took up running instead. Joined my local group of runners and ran a couple of London Marathons. Then got into motor bikes! Inevitably I fell off on one occasion, badly damaging my left shoulder, arm and leg. I repaired, eventually , but my running days were over. By chance one day I walked into a bike store and saw a bike frame hanging on a wall. The store owner bent over backwards to help me buy and build this bike and the rest is history. I’ve done many a long solo hiking trip, in the past, but I am now a biker. I have all the gear, but how much idea? Who knows, but I will get going along this bike packing riding route (can’t wait!). I am enjoying the phase I’m in now, the ‘looking forward’ phase. The planning and packing. The ‘jump off’ will have me a little anxious, I’m sure. Oh and the cost of things? As a kid a Triumph Palm Beach with Sturmey Archer 3 speed would cost about £20 ? My latest Ti gravel bike cost nothing! Just a few thousand pounds. Ha ha! How times change? Thanks for the vid Jethro.

[@JethroJessop]

It really can get pricey though there are always round that. I am very lucky to have a half decent salary and a very cheap lifestyle. I'm not sure I have much of an idea either to be honest but what I do know is that the only way to learn is to do in this case. Each ride is just practice for the next one, maybe you realise you want bigger tyres, a smaller tent, less bags, more bags. If you are anything like me you will never get it properly dialled in but the journey is an enjoyable one. Where will you planning stage lead you? Have you got a route in mind?

[@jimbojet8728]

@@JethroJessop I do have a ‘shakedown’ route planned. Lon Las Cymru, is the length of Wales route, initially recce’d/put together by SUSTRANS? Anglesey to Chepstow. Using mostly the SUSTRANS tracks. It’s about 200 + miles. I’m in no rush to complete it so I have thought that a Monday to Friday might get it done? I think you’ve done at least some of the route? Not sure when to start, but early spring seems as good a time as any? April? I can;t see me having the patience to wait that long though, so we’ll see! I’ll let you know. Thanks for your kind replies Jethro.

[@michaelmoore9139]

You nailed it! Everything I’ve ever felt and have been unable to distill in a coherent way to share with my family and friends who don’t ride! Thank you so much for sharing this!

[@JethroJessop]

My pleasure, I'm really pleased that you enjoyed it and that you get where i was coming from. (Also nice to be called coherent, I'm never sure if I quite qualify there). Thanks for watching and for commenting, I really appreciate it.

[@oliverschembri9211]

Wow thanks for sharing your experience! I never did any of this just watched videos of other people... I don't think I could do that but for those still young enough to do it, those are some wise words. I was deeply touched by your talk, and got me thinking a lot. Thank you.

[@JethroJessop]

Its never too late to have some kind of adventure ;) Glad you enjoyed it and related to it, thanks for watching!

[@rickc6726]

👋 Thank you! Its great that you live your life how you want to and are not afraid to challenge yourself! Inspiring! 👍

[@JethroJessop]

I try to. I could take it to the next level and quit my job to become a wandering cycle poet but I'm still not quite brave enough for that. I'll sell a few more spoons first ;)

[@marcellopacifici]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with the world Jethro. This video really moved me, I can relate to every single word you said, with the exception of having to replace English and Scottish village names to Finnish ones. And I love your use of the English language. Keep filming videos like this please. Cheers from Helsinki.

[@JethroJessop]

Ah Finland, another place on my list to visit! I really want to EV10 around the baltic one day. Then I can horribly mispronounce a lot of place names in my videos ;) I'm glad you enjoyed the video though and that it struck a chord with you. I'm seeing that there are a lot of folk out there who feel the same as me about this. Nice to know I'm not the only one. Thanks for watching

[@patdunne3277]

Mate I've watched countless bike packing video's ( as i too have the bug) this was by far the most powerful and real one iv seen. Thanks for sharing. New subscriber 👍

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you! I really appreciate the support and I'm glad you liked the vid. There is a pretty mixed bag of stuff on the channel but hopefully there are some other bits and pieces to entertain you and more coming all the time! I hope you have plans for summer rides shaping up and thanks for watching 😁

[@scottmccluney3913]

Amazing video (poetic words and all). 😊 You stated you can’t commit to anything but that’s simply not true. You HAVE committed… to the freedom of bikepacking. All the best from across the pond.

[@JethroJessop]

I guess committing to life of non-committal is some kind of commitment 😉 And right now I'm trying to actually make some plans so we shall see how the future turns out. Thanks for watching, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@carl-corwin]

One of my very favorite videos! Thank you for sharing.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you for watching, I'm really glad you liked it. I was quite nervous about releasing this one so it's always nice to get positive feedback on it and see it do so well!

[@annesteele9764]

I’ve watched the whole video and found it really interesting. It could have been about me and I was able to relate to it 100%. Great video. Thank you.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you! I'm really pleased you enjoyed the video and related to the story. I hope you are starting to think about some adventures to scratch the itch next year

[@oot-n-aboot]

I happened upon your PBW videos just looking for some inspiration and route beta for my upcoming bikepacking trip. As much as I loved the footage of where you were and places I’ll see, as I watched each successive video, I grew to care more about you waxing philosophical and poetic. Being a philosophy professor at university, this of course spoke volumes to me. I thought, “this is someone from my tribe.” And then today, I popped back on KZbin for a break and this video popped up as recommended. Of all of yours I’ve watched, this, my friend, is arguably your best. You’ve given a voice to the words many of us seek to speak. Keep doing what you’re doing; keep saying what you’re saying. We need those very words and people with your amazing spirit to be inspired.

[@JethroJessop]

It's rather nice to have a genuine philosophy give this one the thumbs up so thank you 😁 I did a philosophy A level but did really badly because I could get into all the political stuff. The moral side, I always loved and am always happy to sit late into the night and argue back and forth on some arbitrary subject. The "philosophy" that finds its way to this channel is just an extension of my tendency to get way too involved in some little niche in my head. I always felt a bit self conscious putting it out and it was actually this video that changed my mind on that point. It was so well received and seemed to get such a genuinely positive response that it actually convinced me that maybe not all my nonsense is nonsense 😉

[@oot-n-aboot]

@@JethroJessop You’re welcome! And I’m honestly not surprised that you studied philosophy, whether you did badly or no. From what I’ve heard you share, it’s clear to me that you have an ability to identify and carefully navigate nuance, and isolate important ideas and draw them out into the open so that they can be discussed more clearly. The beauty of the discipline (which I take to really about a way of being) is that it’s about seeking clarity of ideas and, as you expressed, trying them on to see how they fit. And maybe, if we’re fortunate, discovering truths along the way. So keep doing what you’re doing. It’s definitely working. And I’m sure we’d have great fun chatting and arguing (in the philosophical sense) over pints and drams into the wee hours of the night over whatever topic was of interest. I’ll keep my eyes out for you on the trails this august and in the pubs. If we do happen to cross paths, the first pint is on me. 😁

[@JethroJessop]

@@oot-n-aboot That would be great indeed. I'll most likely be in Sweden through August but who knows where the future will see me? One of my great day dreams is to do a ride all around Europe and meeting up with some of the folk who comment here regularly. It would be an amazing ride and a way to put some actual faces to avatars. One day maybe :)

[@oot-n-aboot]

@@JethroJessop Excellent! That sounds like a grand adventure. And yes, always fun to meet social media “friends” in person. In fact, I eventually met some of folks in person that I first connected with on IG and they’ve become some of my dearest friends.

[@JethroJessop]

@@oot-n-aboot Then I'll look forward to a future philosophy session somewhere down the road :)

[@MadLFC]

Wow Jethro, that was one hell of a philosophical statement about bikepacking. You speak of the danger but to me you've made choices that have only been of benefit to you. Yes, your passion for all this has possibly impacted financial or personal aspects of your life but as you've said you regret none of it. You've fulfilled a dream and it's a dream you are continuing to live. Good for you.

[@JethroJessop]

As with all things in life there many angles. My life could have takes several radically different courses but all in all I'm very happy with where I've ended up. I really only wish that I could spend more time away on longer bike trips and thet may happen again one day. Thanks for watching. I really enjoy making these philosophical videos and it's always nice when they get good responses so thanks for commenting as well

[@Pavloun]

I gradually watch your videos and one by one they completely blow my mind. A beautiful story about your beginnings and how a similar trip can completely change your lifestyle, attitude and the way you go on the path of life. I have a similar experience on foot in the form of multi-day trips and sleeping in the woods. I have tried bikepacking a few times so far and I would like to start working more intensively. That's why I've been watching various bikepacking videos in recent days. But none of them have had the same effect on me as your videos. There is something indescribable about your stories. But as I wrote at the beginning - they completely blow my mind. Looks like your youtube channel will be one of my TOPs.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you! That is fantastic feedback and I am humbled by it. I honestly question myself every time I upload a new video, especially these long monologue style ones. I always expect people to tell me I'm just talking nonsense but time and again people like yourself come back and tell me that they also get it and feel the same. It's good to know there are like minded folk out there. I hope you have some fine trips planned for the near future and that they inspire you the way mine inspire me. Thanks for watching!

[@WheelsonaBike]

What a great video! Yes, bicycle tours can be transformational! They certainly have been for me. And what an analogy to use, but it works, a virus that multiples, the bug of touring just grows and pulls you right in! I watched the video to the end. Thanks for your thoughts. :)

[@JethroJessop]

I think that the government should subsidise a multiday trip for everyone when they leave college. Could be biking or hiking or canoeing or whatever, as long as you get that feeling of being out there amongst it all, isolated and vulnerable but also prepared. We'd have far more poets and bloggers and and the economy would probably take a hit but still... ;) Thanks for watching, especially for making it to the end, I appreciate that.

[@JethroJessop]

PS - Just been watching some of your Trans Canada Trail videos. Other peoples rides always give me itchy feet, that one looked great!

[@WheelsonaBike]

@@JethroJessop That would be a miracle in Canada. I'd like to start with a ride to work program at least. :)

[@WheelsonaBike]

@@JethroJessop Thank you for watching. I appreciate it!

[@JethroJessop]

@@WheelsonaBike they are good videos. I'll catch up on a few more soon!

[@joskoevoet9569]

You give words to what i have been experiencing during my bikepacking trips, thank you! Very insightful.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you. I'm very pleased that you enjoyed it and that I managed to say something that struck a chord.

[@joskoevoet9569]

@@JethroJessop Definitely. I started three years back and was taken by surprise what an impact bikepacking has on myself and my life - and the deep feelings you encounter ranging from freedom, fear, pure joy, satisfaction, excitement and the surprisingly deep sadness on the last day.

[@JethroJessop]

@@joskoevoet9569 The last day of a ride is a really weird feeling isn't it. Even quite short trips make it really hard to go back to "normal" life. Almost up till the last minute I stay in that traveling frame of mind until suddenly something I recognize pops up and just like that its all over and I'm home. It is a strange kind of sadness but definitely a sadness nonetheless. All part of the trip though I guess. As you say, more emotions than one might otherwise experience in twice the time. I love it, all of it, even the sad endings in a weird way

[@phill2383]

Good Positive Video Jethro, You have definitely had a positive influence on myself looking into Bike packing etc. I agree with Gary you have the makings of a good book from this video of your travels. Ohh and thanks for saying Shrewsbury the correct way :-)

[@JethroJessop]

Ah the age old shrewsbury vs shrowsbury debate? To be honest it just came out so I fluked it as much as anything! My videos are scattered with badly pronounced place names both at home and abroad so every compliment is welcome ;) Glad you enjoyed the vid and doubly pleased if I have had a positive effect on anyone or anything. It was a fun one to make. Think I'll do a few more of these if I can find something else that inspires a lecture of that length!

[@Calvin_Wright]

Lovely film. You packed a snorkel on your first trip that is brilliant. But we all did similar on our first trip. Every trip after, is about trying to distilling the pleasure 👍💪😎

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you!l. I'll make an admission here too. That wasn't the last time I packed a snorkel. I cycled along the south coast of France a couple of years later and took one. Or rather I bought one along the way because the sea was so clear and warm. That second time was justified though because the sea was clear and warm and we were swimming most days.

[@stephengirimont]

Best monologue ever! Well done sir!

[@JethroJessop]

Simple and very positive feedback ;) I'll take that, thank you!

[@hristiyan90]

You are such a natural storyteller. One of the more inspiring videos I’ve seen in a while. Especially in a period when I am considering bikepacking..

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you :) If I inspired at all I am very pleased. Bikepacking is a truly amazing pastime and cycling in general is the perfect way to see the world - be it outside your front door or the other side of the planet. Give it a go, you might just love it and never look back!

[@stuartshelley18]

I'm so glad I subbed to this channel, just shared this with the rest of the group I tour with. I come from a background of mountain biking, saved for ages for an enduro bike, finally got one and shredded the hell out of it, but I never felt completely satisfied after a day's ride. I went for my first tour ride with the father law and the rest of the gang across France cycling the Normandy beaches. I put some slicks on my enduro bike and bought aload of topeak bags. The bike managed okay but I did struggle. I soon rushed out and bought a cube nuroad, a kind of travel/gravel bike. I've since done more tours than any days out mountain biking. It's mainly just four blokes riding their bikes to a destination and getting merry 😂 I love every adventure we hit. I've since realised that the gravel bike just isn't good enough for touring. I'm now in the process of building up my tour bike frame, which is actually just a frame, but not just any frame, it's my first ever bike I got from the father in law. It's been sat in the loft for years, I thought what better way to spend my touring life, on the bike that started it all. After alot of research on touring gear, equipment and ideas I've now landed on your channel. Your story really has hit the point of touring. No matter what cycling you do, nothing will ever compete with the rush of planning, exploring and cycling the adventure. I'm pretty sure I could easily sit with you for hours discussing different bike set ups and places to travel. Thank you for your time and effort in this touring community. Much love 🙏 Regards stu 👍

[@JethroJessop]

That's awesome. Too much importance is heaped on those who are breaking records and crossing deserts when really the majority of touring and bikepacking is just folk out riding, enjoying the world either alone or with some buddies. Doesn't matter how far you ride or how fast you cover the distance, it only matters that you are out there and doing it. I've done very little cycling in France but I'd love to do more. Ideally I'd like to do a North to South and then continue down to Portugal but finding the time for such a trip is not easy these days. Good luck with latest build, I hope it comes together smoothly. Keep me posted on the progress! Thanks again for the sub, the shares and for taking the time to comment. I really do appreciate it and I'm really glad you are enjoying the channel

[@chrisaustin8913]

I just stumbled across your channel and really love it. I did watch this video to the end and found many aspects very relatable. You have a way of speaking that is captivating. I am also enjoying your choices of content with exploring areas that aren't commonly talked about. Thanks for sharing.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you, I'm really pleased you are enjoying the channel. This was a particularly rambling video even by my standards but I really enjoyed it and will hopefully make some more in this style soon. Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching

[@loujessop8557]

Just watched this; great stuff. I love the little incidental clips of nature; fungus, flowers etc specially loved the beetle! well spotted.

[@JethroJessop]

I watched that beetle for ages! Think I filmed at least a minute of it, determined little beasty.

[@steve101968]

My story is almost identical to yours. Got a bike through the scheme. And then I remembered bikes are fun. Weirdly I used to live near that distillery where I learnt to ride bikes with my dad. I moved to Farnborough and got that bike. I didn't do much for a while and then one day I dusted it off and I cycle nearly every day. Subsequently I got another bike from the scheme and have got into bikepacking

[@JethroJessop]

It's a slippery slope, that first bike. You never know where it might lead you 😉 You got any good rides planned for this year?

[@self-propelledfun]

You’ve hit the nail firmly on the head in this vid. My first bike pack was an A road frenzy on a full sus MTB with nobbly tyres and a jam packed 70L rucksack. I got lost, I suffered, doubted myself, arguably had the wrong tools for the job but did it anyway and felt victorious afterwards.

[@JethroJessop]

The right bike is the bike you have as they say Better to get out and do it with the "wrong" tools than spend your life researching kit and never leaving the house. I also did my first one on big nobby tyres and had this pointed out to me by many other people I encountered. But it was fine. All part of the great adventure and all things to look back on and smile at as you plan the next one

[@self-propelledfun]

@@JethroJessop absolutely! couldn’t agree more👍

[@jameslopez958]

It's not just you brother 👍. Freedom is more than just a word! Peace ✌️ and Love 💕 from Tucson Arizona Desert 🏜️

[@JethroJessop]

Peace and love right back atcha! Keep on peddling 😁

[@peteza4487]

I just replied to one of the snorkel and mask comments. Show of hands, who hasn’t carried those on a long, or short, bike trip?! Great channel Jethro! Of all the bike touring/bike packing channels that I’ve watched over the years, this particular episode is one of my favourites. Probably because I too am ‘infected’. I’m heading out on my annual months long solo ride in 2-3 weeks. Lucky me. You seem like a fine man Jethro, and a great storyteller. Cheers from Vancouver, Canada 🥃

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you. I'm really glad that you enjoyed the story. And it's nice to know I'm not the only one with this particular sickness. One of the few diseases that you actually want to encourage the symptoms 😉

[@peteza4487]

Indeed. Yet again, well said. Cheers, all my best.

[@GetInspiredMedia]

Well said Jethro. All the best on living YOUR adventure! Dave from down-under

[@JethroJessop]

Thanks, glad you agree with my ramblings ;)

[@GetInspiredMedia]

@@JethroJessop in my own way I can relate Jethro 😆👍

[@JethroJessop]

@@GetInspiredMedia that's the only way that matters 😉

[@davidhale1568]

You sound normal to me, I first learnt it in the 70s when with a mate we cycled from the Pyrenees to Birmingham which was followed by more solo rides in France and happened to ride for a few hours with another cyclist I must have asked hun three times where he was heading for he said he didn’t know was just going where the road took him, this was revolutionary to me I’d planned my route before getting on the plane, I’ve thought of him often when I set off for destination unknown. It culminated with me cycling to Australia back in 1988. I finally retired from the world of work five years ago and celebrated by cycling back from Gibraltar. At 70 my knees creak a bit and do a fair bit of backpacking and a little bike packing. A few months ago when backpacking in Wales a passing cyclist shouted at me that I should get a bike….little did he know!

[@JethroJessop]

Sounds like you have pretty much got it right so far then 😉 I envy you for some of those rides, they must have been fantastic. I really hope to be able to do a trip through France and Spain one day soon. Portugal as well if I can swing it. I am unfortunately well embedded in work at the moment so the wandering life style is just out of reach but I'm not giving up, I'll catch up with it one day soon. I hope you have many more adventures lined up and thanks for watching

[@davidhale1568]

@@JethroJessop Portugal is fab, south of Lisbon near the coast has many gravel/sandy trails worth exploring.

[@JethroJessop]

@@davidhale1568 it is very much on my list. I have a friend there and I just love the idea of slowly cycling along the coast one seafood feast at a time 😉 Hopefully I'll make it happen somehow.

[@TimKapow]

This is so true! I also grew up riding, then it slipped by. I eventually bought a bike and got into fitness and the bike was a means to an end. I never expected that I would fall absolutely in love with riding.

[@JethroJessop]

It's funny how it gets you. When you find yourself just riding for the joy of riding, not worrying about distance or speed , and wanting only ride further and then do it all again the next day then you know you are fully addicted. And its a hard one to kick

[@theo5928]

Man I should of watched this before I went on my trip... You've really summarised the nagging feeling I have had since I got back from a 6 week tour across Europe! I'm now trying to figure out how to make a career to fit my newfound obsession with adventure.

[@JethroJessop]

That's how it gets you. No escape now 😉 It is a wonderful thing to be passionate about but it really doesn't fit easily into "Normal" life. If you find the secret, let me know please!

[@Bill-in-SF]

You left your snorkel?!! I'm only 10 minutes into your video, and I love it.

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you, I'm glad you're enjoying it. You'll be pleased to know that since that first ride I have actually done trips where I did carry a snorkel (for at least short stretches). On my Sweden trip I was doing a lot of swimming in very clear lakes so a snorkel and mask actually got a fair bit of use :)

[@peteza4487]

@@JethroJessopMe too! I’ve carried my snorkel and mask many times. Sometimes I’ll carry it for weeks, or months on long tours, only to use it a few times. But what good times those were. I’m a chronic overpacker. Every year I set out on a long solo trip, only to mail several items home after 10-20 days! I’m leaving in 2-3 weeks on another adventure, and this time I’m going to strive to pack less stuff. But who am I kidding! Jethro, I stumbled upon your channel a few days ago, and I’ve watched a couple of your vids, but this one struck home. You and I are living virtually the same life (this infection seems to be contagious) for the last 10 years I work for half the year and solo cycle tour the other half (but occasionally meet up with other cyclists and ride together for a few days, which is always nice). From Vancouver, Canada, wishing you all the best, you seem like such a fine man, and a great storyteller. Cheers 🥃

[@JethroJessop]

@@peteza4487 cheers indeed. It sounds like you are even deeper in than I am! I wish I was doing 50 but sadly I don't know when I'll ever get to do another multi month tour. I hope your packing works out. I always say that if you use it then you aren't overpacked. Where will your next trip be taking you?

[@outbackwack368]

I love this Vlog! This was epic! This content is what you NEVER know about content creators and it is what DEFINES YOU! Thanks!!!

[@JethroJessop]

Great comment thank you! I was nervous about this one so the positive feedback is really appreciated. I'm trying to make videos that are at least somewhat unique and my own perspective is about the only I have that no-one else has. I really enjoyed making this one so I'll probably do more in this style if I can find topics to ramble on about.

[@dougnevitt2257]

I can definitely relate. Got in to back packing and now tipping my toe into bike packing, and all I can think about is the trips that I want to take, and the wonderful solitude of the woods, and the carefree life of the trail. Thanks

[@JethroJessop]

Good luck with all those future trips then! I hope they come together easy for you. What route is number one on the list at the moment?

[@dougnevitt2257]

@@JethroJessop number one on the bucket list is the AZT, transvirginia bike packing route is appealing, keeping close to home, North Country trail in Michigan, etc, etc. thanks again

[@JethroJessop]

@@dougnevitt2257 I've watched a few videos of people doing the AZT. It looks pretty hard but also an amazing route. I imagine you have some great trails in your part of the world though. Best of luck with it, hope it is amazing

[@davewoodward1155]

I love the line the "the road is like a river and I might get washed away"..might nick that for a song ...great vid.

[@JethroJessop]

I can't take credit. It's basically me misquoting Tolkien. If it makes it into a song though then send me a link. Sounds like the kind of song I might like 😉

[@huttone]

Inspiring monolog, thanks for sharing ! I'm still trying to figure out how to do my first bike camping experience. I need to hook up with some folks who are in the know... Houston Texas is a far cry from your English wonderland not so easy to just step out on the river without being run over.. lol

[@JethroJessop]

I've never visited the US but it does seem to be a different beast for sure. I see half stories of fantastic wilderness adventures, miles from anywhere and completely free and half of people queueing to get into the forest. I guess it's somewhere in the middle in reality? Hope you get a trip a sorted though. It's well worth the prep, you will have an amazing time. Let me know where you end up on the first one 😀

[@hammockhobie8958]

Jethro at 83 I have only just discovered bike packing. I bought all the gear and dream of my first trip. So far I've just cycled around our little town some times I'm up for it sometimes not, sometimes I pull a trailer with my dog in it, but one day I will take that first trip, thankyou I really enjoy your videos.

[@JethroJessop]

I say, every ride is a good ride. Doesn't matter how far you go or how fast to you move. The important thing is to be out and enjoying it. Good luck planning that first multi day trip, you will love it, I'm sure! I'm really pleased you are enjoying the videos, thanks for watching.

[@viktorkathi9871]

i come back to this video from time to time. very inspiring! thx for sharing

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you for watching, I'm really glad you enjoy it. Even more so that you enjoy it enough to revisit more than once

[@FollowThomas]

You are a good story teller, building up the curiosity and not telling where you're heading exactly with your story I had to watch it to the end to get the answer. Thank you. 👍😊

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I was unsure how this would go down - interesting monologue or self indulgent nonsense. It was the only video I've felt a twinge of nerves about releasing so your feedback is appreciated and a relief.

[@FollowThomas]

@@JethroJessop you did well I enjoyed it, thanks

[@Curlew-Corner]

Excellent. Love your thinking.

[@JethroJessop]

Im glad you enjoyed it. I was pleased with this one and really enjoyed making it but it was quite nerve wracking to release so I'm super pleased it did so well and that folk keep finding it and enjoying it.

[@jolive3743]

we have had a very similar life, it changes you, it's total freedom

[@JethroJessop]

It really is. It sounds so clichéd to talk about "total freedom" but is absolutely true. Nothing else that I've experienced comes close, and it is addictive.

[@matthewsponseller]

So very inspiring! You have a real knack for storytelling, making the experience very relatable; not to mention that the video and chosen music is so perfect for the tale of your love of cycle touring…

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you. I'm really pleased you liked it. I very much enjoyed making this one and was worried that it wouldn't go down very well so comments like this mean a lot to me. Thanks for watching!

[@bartmullin8018]

Much of what you said struck a chord or close enough. My idea to bikepack the northern Sierras come late May or early June might have been a symptom of a few of my Reno-Truckee runs, the Huntington Beach to Santa Barbara road epic, or the Huntington Beach to La Jolla and back road epic. Additionally, my long rides to my more favorite mountain-biking spots in O.C. and a one-time to the Santa Monica mountains(Never mountain-bike there btw; Fat, non-mountainbiking rangers will ticket you or tell you how to ride...) more than probably fueled the inspiration for ever longer rides. Just getting on the road/trail 'river' can sweep you far downstream and even if you return home, you still hear it's call...

[@JethroJessop]

Sounds like you are well and truly lost to it already 😉 I guess all you can do now is go with it. Hope the plans come together and the ride is a fantastic one. It's not a part of the world I know but from what I've seen it looks pretty amazing!

[@michaelkelly365]

Amazing how you just set off, how hard that must have felt, just feeling that exhausted on the 1st day. What freedom you must have felt. Great sentimental chat about your experience and meeting your friends all over Great Britain. What a great life story so far. Its amazing just how much of the country you've seen so far and the people you've met. Carry on with the Great rides and show them to the world. Thank you and also I've watched this to the end.

[@JethroJessop]

It was hard but it's also amazing how quickly your fitness and stamina catch up with your ambitions and how quickly you learn to love that lifestyle. I have seen a fair chunk of the UK but there is still much more that I still need to explore and even more in the rest of Europe. Thank you for watching and for making it to the end, I'm glad you enjoyed it and hopefully you'll stick around for future videos too.

[@michaelkelly365]

@@JethroJessop love listening to what made you decide on this lifestyle, how you got interested in it and having the guts just to go out there and explore. I take my hat off for you. One thing I'd like to ask is how do you keep hydrated and replenish on these rides. ?

[@JethroJessop]

@@michaelkelly365 i always try to carry enough food for at least a few days so I don't have to have the pressure to resupply all the time. I snack a lot during the day, nuts, fruits etc and never pass up an opportunity for a meal if I come across a nice cafe or a pub. I can carry about 3L of water and if I can't refill from cafes or kindly members of the public then I filter water from streams and lakes. I am terrible for forgetting to drink while I ride so I'm always having to remind myself to do that

[@michaelkelly365]

@@JethroJessop thank you for the tips. My friend and I are going to attempt some of the grrat north trail, bike packing, so maybe having to get the train home. It'll be an adventure to say the least. Thank you for your inspiration .

[@JethroJessop]

@@michaelkelly365 nice, which part are you going to do? If I remember right, the southern part follows the Pennine Bridleway and the northern part the Badger Divide. I found the PBW incredibly hard. Beautiful, but slow going lots of pushing up hills - check out the vids from the ride if you haven't seen them The Badger was probably my favourite of all the routes I've done. Stunning scenery, hard but doable route. Only finished last week so the first video is up with more to follow.

[@janmorren1]

I watched your video through the end, and I wished immediately that I’ve seen this kind of video when I was 18 or 20, so that I could do the same, before getting into live’s serious stuff: marriage, kids, house, etc… I subscribed, not only for your personal insight, but also because I do think you are one of the right people, to guide us through the real deal about bikepacking. I’m planning my first overnighter(s) bikepacking. And I’m glad seeing your thoughts about what you’ve experienced. Good luck to you on your journeys, and would love to see more of your bikepacking trips and thoughts. Cheers!

[@JethroJessop]

Thank you, I'm really pleased you found something useful in my rambling story. I hope your upcoming trip goes smoothly and leads to more in the future. Do you have a destination in mind? I'm always interested to hear about other peoples rides 😀

[@janmorren1]

@@JethroJessop Thank you for the "wishing well" :-) Well, the plan is to do the Tuscany Trail '23. Before getting there, I'll need to do some overnighters. I'm living in Belgium, so we have great MTB routes, gravelroutes etc. I just need to experience the whole thing: putting my tent after an awful lot of miles (kms :-) ). The hygiene, the bike, etc. I'm a true rookie at 52's, but I'm so ready :-D

[@JethroJessop]

@@janmorren1 sounds like you have exactly the right attitude for it. Just get out and learn as you go. You'll never get the kit or the process dialled in on the first trip (or the fifty first if you are anything like me) but the more you do, the more you learn and the better you get which makes the next one even more enjoyable and so the cycle continues. It's definitely worth experiencing the hard parts too as you say. There will always be times when you are hungry or cold or wet or tired, or all the above. But those times are just stepping stones between the good bits and even the hardest rides become great memories in the end.

[@davidcooper6704]

A very interesting insight of your journey into the world of cycling/travelling/camping which I can relate to ....and beautifully filmed. It brought back memories of me and my wife being dropped off at the port by my brother, taking the ferry to France and winging it, with nothing planned, for 2 weeks. This was our first cycle tour. Then back to family and work where the memories of the trip were related to workmates who couldn't understand why we chose to "put ourselves" through all that hassle. Their loss! Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@JethroJessop]

That is, in my opinion, the absolute best way to do a tour. You have nothing to be late for, no deadlines to hit, you can adjust your route as you see fit and take in the world as it presents itself. I couldn't count the amount of times I've changed my route based on the recommendation of locals or other cyclists coming the other way. It is daft to think that you could sit at home in one country and plan the best route to cycle through another. You are much better off just jumping in and letting the ride dictate the route. I've not ridden much in france but I'd love to explore it more and will get there one day.

[@Mike-vd2qt]

Very nice story of your cycle touring beginnings. I started touring in 1982 on a poor fitting bike, junk piled on the rear rack. Finally crossed the U.S. in 1984' with 40 pounds of gear, mailing stuff home as I went. Today, still touring at 68, I pack 15 pounds of gear and clothes. You need less as you continue on in cycle touring, same with life itself. Watched the whole video, thanks!

[@JethroJessop]

Doing it is the best and only way to learn! I very hope I can keep doing it till my legs finally give up the ghost and I know I'll still have a tonne to learn no matter how long I go. I fully expect to be over packing even if I'm still touring at 100 😉 Glad you liked the vid. Thanks for watching

[@giff06]

I found this very knspiational and encouraged me to go out for a bike ride on this gloomy December day....thank you!

[@JethroJessop]

That's awesome. I couldn't ask for better feedback than that. I hope you had a great ride and that the gloomy winter day seemed all the brighter for having gone out to meet it. Thanks for watching

[@033biketrips]

You are 100% right! Can’t wait to get back to the mountains on my bike 🙏🏼

[@JethroJessop]

Glad you agree. I've not been in any proper mountains for a long time but hopefully I'll find my way back soon. Thanks for watching

[@graham4885]

I liked this, despite it not being a 'big hitting' video. You talked about many of the reasons we do this.

[@JethroJessop]

Weirdly this has run and run and become one of my best performing videos. Turns out we are legion! I thought most people would just see this as self indulgent nonsense but apparently this lifestyle has a way of getting into the bones and it isn't just me who feels that way. I'm glad you enjoyed it and agreed with it. Thanks for watching :)

[@justhikingaround68]

Great video ... Having just brought a bike for part of my training for long distance hiking ( I get where your coming from , riding is infectious ) And I am trying to get out of my head the ideal of bike packing rather than a long distance hike.. Maybe do both mmm

[@JethroJessop]

Variety is the spice of life 😀 Load up the bike, cycle from home to the trail head, stash the bike and walk the trail. You get all the adventure, eco friendly and on your own terms. Sounds like the dream to me 😉

[@DIY-DaddyO]

I never knew Dominic Cumberbatch was so into his cycling. Great video Jethro, made me reflect back on my own life and wishing I’d spent more time riding and less time chasing £££. Still got a few years left for these type of shenanigans. Thank you for showing the way.

[@JethroJessop]

It's hard to resist the lure of salary and security. I'm no better despite all my fine words. I could quit work tomorrow, set off on my bike, spend my savings and try to make the channel generate some kind of reasonable income. I daydream about this and it isn't entirely beyond the realm of possibility but I've become very accustomed to the life of a relatively well paid, office scumbag 😉 One day though, one day I'll make that video announcing the commencement of my new life. If you have the time and you have the inclination then go do it. You'll never regret it no matter what the final outcome is.

[@chriswild8802]

I absolutely agree with you. I've been dreaming of doing a large multi-day cycling trip for decades. I turned 50 a year ago and decided that I couldn't just dream about it. This last August I did my first solo bikepacking trip. 500km over 6 days on a rail trail built for motorized ATV's, not bicycles. It was one of the toughest and most exhilarating things I've ever done. I can't believe how many things there were to do and see between home and my destination that I just drove by on the highway in the past, completely oblivious to all of it. My son sees what I've done and what I'm planning and says, "I really like the idea of just loading up the bike and going camping!"... I'll get him hooked on it next summer. My biggest hurdle is I only get 3 weeks of vacation from work and have to balance planning an epic trip and spending time with the family. I may have a plan to accomplish both. We'll see... I'm now addicted to it too. Sub'd 😀

[@JethroJessop]

It is a passion that requires a lot of time to fully indulge for sure. I've been lucky to be able to dedicate the time I have to it. What route did you ride on that first trip? (I love looking at maps, even of other people's rides) If you can gently nudge the rest of family into it as well then that is a win. Great for you but also for them. I met a family in sweden who where on a multi week ride - mum, dad and three kids. The youngest was in a little trailer. They weren't going very far each day but said it was an amazing trip. Good luck planning the next one and thanks for watching!