Tarp Essentials | My Everyday Carry 2021 | Tarpology

[@simonh6371]

In a previous life I had a plain green poncho (known as ''58 pattern'' but it was introduced after the webbing of the same name, some time in the early 60s) to sleep under. In this life I opted for a Dutch Army surplus poncho which scores over the old one in that it's DPM, and 3 typically Dutch aspects, it's well made and robust to the point of being bombproof, designed for an even rainier climate than the UK, and it's a bit longer since the Dutch are the tallest people on earth. Finally it folds into a pouch attached to the inside of it to form a square package. I actually EDC it now if I'm going beyond walking distance of my house.

[@steveh100]

We used the 58 pattern poncho for years, always with the hood tied up, never as rain protection. Although I always wandered why not... as the waterproofs were a bit sweaty back in the day.

[@simonh6371]

@@steveh100 When I said ''in a previous life'' I was referring to my service in the British Army 1988-93, so we have the same experience. Hood tied up used as a basha for 2, with the other guy's poncho on the ground. Sometime in 1992 we were issued goretex bivvy bags, for battle camp in Vogelsang, which made life easier.

[@steveh100]

@@simonh6371 happy days when Goretex came on the scene and the new gonk bag was pure heaven.

[@simonh6371]

@@steveh100 Yep also the shelter sheet as opposed to the poncho is great, I have been wild camping with one in pouring rain and had loads of space, also a goretex bivvy bag but in DPM, those are enormous. Don't know about the new sleeping bags. The old ones were okay but just bulky. Now I use a Snugpak elite, with an unissued British Army sleeping bag liner. Don't remember ever having sleeping bag liners back in the day either.

[@turbocalves]

I had a Dutch poncho for 15 years. Got lost in the post when I moved country. Devastated.

[@ET-jv1wm]

I've always carried an old army poncho in my fishing, and hiking gear. Years ago I was fly-fishing in the mountains with a mate and we got caught by a heavy unseasonal snowstorm. We were miles from base camp and in shorts and T-shirts. We spent a very miserable night spooning under my Tarp and hiked out in the sunshine the next morning. It definitely saved our lives!

[@redred333]

That tip for packing away the lines on the tarp is absolute gold. I just got a tarp to take out on the next trip and I remembered watching this video a long time ago and bookmarking that idea. No one else does that. Thanks for sharing mate

[@AndysEastCoastAdventures]

Being in an enclosed tent in a storm can give you a sense of comfort but you can't beat the versatility of a tarp. Even just as a temp shelter like this. Putting a tent up to stay dry for a rest stop is just a pain. I've been using ex-military for years but in recent times have gone over to silnylon tarps & ponchos. Super waterproof but oh so light for multi-day camps.

[@greenmouse9354]

My time in we never had tarps/ basher’s we had 58 patten green ponchos which we used to tie up the neck hole and shelter under it. It also had press studs at the bottom to clip on to the sleeping bag a if I remember correctly down the sides these were popped together so that you had protection from the sides and your arms could come out of the side at the top like a scarecrow. I know when I trained is the US they used a shared tent system which was half a side of the tent each.

[@thetrailgoat]

I have spent countless nights sleeping under a poncho in the US Army. In fact, it was the only shelter issued to me for use in the field. Affectionately called the “Hooch.” Almost exclusively used in an A frame, it was my “tent.” Usually strung up between two trees less than three feet off the ground. Although I’ve had to improvise trees on many occasions. Once I used my large rucksack at my head and a baby sapling at my feet which almost broke. I always had at least two ponchos with me. Three in the winter. A poncho liner, or Woobie, tied to the second and third ponchos. Folded in half lengthwise and snapped down the side was my sleeping bag. The third one wrapped around the second and folded the opposite direction during cold weather. I have taken that combination down to at least freezing on multiple occasions. It’s not ideal but in the military you use what they give you. Improvise and overcome! Wearing all my clothes I slept warm and snug as a bug. Only removing my boots so my feet could breathe. And I’m not a cold weather person either. The USGI poncho is a great piece of gear. Everyone should have at least one.

[@mjohns66]

Wish I had seen this sooner, I was trying to figure out the best way to leave lines on a tarp and still have them quick deployable. I was missing the twist at the end. Thanks for the tip.

[@adamdobner1910]

How was this ‘knot’ done? It looks handy.

[@adamdobner1910]

Ah balls, ignore me, I just got to the end and saw the full guide. Cheers.

[@gleggett3817]

I can't seem to get the twist right. Practicing with a loose bit of line I can do the winding but have to stop and put then loop round it using the other free end. that deployed fine but when tried as left handed (as I'm a lefty) I ended up with a knot on deployment.

[@oliviergerrits]

I clipped two of these together in basic training to sleep under with my buddy. Enough room to put our packs under there and protect us from the elements during winter, very cozy too which really helped us cherish that buddy-love you only feel when you're out in the field with the guys. Good stuff!

[@cardiacbob]

I slept under poncho hooches for 22 years through my Career as a Marine and Army Infantryman! sometimes (often) wet and cold, but "travel light - freeze at night" as we used to say!!

[@Tanko3691]

I have a little folding MSR universal gas cannister stand, its made from pressed steel but its very light and packs away small. I also have 3 cheap thin tent pegs that I cut down to just under 4" which can hold the stand down, not always needed but if used, it never falls over. The stand, pegs, gas cannister, pocket rocket, half a scour sponge all pack away into my little stainless kettle/ pot.

[@soggz4246]

I have a similar poncho. I just fold it in half, press the corresponding studs together, and just wear it, but with arm holes. It stops it flapping around so much.👍🏾

[@insanityknows]

As an American with my dad being an army survival specialist, I have been raised to highly value my poncho. I will always rely in my poncho.

[@jimmyzulu85]

The poncho is one of the most versatile items one can have for the outdoors. I remember using one as a shelter and one as a ground sheet in Greek paras.. The ugly part was trying to fit two guys under it...

[@sunitafisher4758]

🌸 that is too funny 😊

[@pascalmarti4403]

I almost lost it when you pulled out the Aromat. I'm from Switzerland and Aromat is THE ultimate seasoning here. As a kid I used to put it on everything. So funny it found its way to England ^^

[@TheWtfnonamez]

I think its quite funny that during the 70s, 80s and 90s, there was a big drive to make camping and hiking gear "high-tech", primarily because of this notion that science is better than "old fashioned stuff". Then as the internet grew, people communicated directly, and the science of bushcraft evolved, there has been this great return to traditional technology that has been around for centuries. We might be making them from synthetics now, but ponchos have been around for millennia because they are cheap, versatile and effective. What could possibly go wrong with a giant sheet of material that keeps 90% of the rain off you, traps warm air, and can be used to make an improvised tent. Thanks for the knot info btw... I promise to try and learn it.

[@mikebox]

As for a back pack for an EDC. I’ve been using my Berghaus Munro for over 15 years. No zippers, top loader, solid piece of kit. Highly recommend it.

[@christelledixon9366]

Take a look at the Direct action dust or egg backpacks if you want something well built with lots of pockets. If you prefer one large main pocket then munro or centurio. Centurio has a better back system however.

[@mikel6517]

My Munro lasted 23 years, a bit yellow at the end but never failed, even when bought new I deliberately put a hole in the nylon pull cord top part to push through an antenna. Just put a bit of gaffa tape over it and still lasted that many years. Highly recommended

[@MikeDownes]

Who else spotted the sewing kit to be used to fix the zip on the backpack? .. nice to see you are using video chapters .. \o/ ..

[@shawnmckenna3667]

You mentioned the male and female snaps/buttons. You snap them together for a bivy. Take a poncho liner (Woobie) and tie it off to the grommets and now it is insulated. The poncho is US mil-spec and was one of the many ways to deploy the poncho. A very nice EDC shelter.

[@reaverman]

Got a Dutch army poncho, which is a godsend with current British climate!

[@rnew1262]

Enjoyed this. At 6:36 you get out your gas cannister. I've been using a hobo stove so I can burn twigs or my trangia burner sits in it. I really like using the trangia, burning meths because it's silent. Just gives another element to having a low profile. I think it's old school but it's great.

[@jonfisher9214]

One of my favourite things about my Trangia is the silent burn. You can also use bioethanol instead of meths. Mine's still going strong after 25 years of regular use.

[@keriwdavies]

Yea, hobo stove (I use a Bushbox LF) with a Trangia burner as a back up is a great combination. And as Jon says below, I've switched to less smelly and more eco-friendly bioethanol.

[@elijahwhite9505]

I use my poncho all the time to cover my crews gear on our tank when we go do field exercises. We have also made sort of a tent city stretching between tanks to keep out of the sun.

[@110adventures7]

Poncho's great bits of kit, I have one packed away in the wife's car one in my truck and another in my small back pack when I go walking they take up very little space and so versatile

[@EdwinDekker71]

That needle kit is something I'm adding. Thanks for the video

[@coydog6665]

The poncho with poncho liner folded in half makes for a nice sleeping bag that’ll keep you warm and dry as well

[@mcoppock214]

Brilliant, I have used an American tarp / poncho for the last 30 years. And raised eyebrows for fellow hiker companions. Till one day the weather was really bad.... did the same setup and loved it. Next walk guess what. They had a 3mx3m tarp. Cos it was bigger and better..... I like my poncho never walk without it.

[@AnonymousWon-uu5yn]

To tie the eskimo bowline I bring the line clockwise around the object that I'm tying to, then I use the overhand flip method to tie it and I mostly tie it to be a quick release. To tie a siberian hitch I bring the line clockwise around the object that I'm tying to, then I use the method shown at the end of the siberian hitch video in my knots playlist. And to tie a uni knot I start off like I'm going to tie the siberian hitch, but instead of passing a bight through the loop, I bring the tag end through the loop 2 to 4 times. And the uni knot can be used in place of a poachers knot.

[@AnonymousWon-uu5yn]

As part of my edc I carry a flipstick cane and a ul poncho/hammock from wilderness innovations and amazingly they both fit in my propper usmc assault pouch. To make the flipstick more comfortable to sit on I cut to size and glued a really comfortable kneeling pad to the seat.

[@Fishy1764]

back in the 1980s military we had the green poncho as you probably know , almost identical design as yours which was standard issue to be used not only as a poncho but as your basha too .I spent many a night under one of those .Needless to say the materials back in the 60s when these things were made weren't a patch on what we have today. you could clip them together in the same way.

[@leslieharding8560]

I love my Poncho!, so versatile!.Not the most trendy looking garment, but puts a smile on my face when all around are getting soaked and I am dry as a bone! Great Video 👍👍

[@danielcannon5321]

Currently in the woods camping under a basha in the middle of a rainstorm watching this😂🤙

[@muskett4108]

Bombproof: NI Patrol Pack. I'm using the Helikon Bergen Backpack in Coyote Brown. Bushcraft feature rich daypack/summer bush sleep over. Has a place for a Silky Saw 270, Terrava 120, and GB SFA. The switch from military to civi bushcrafty is quite big, and quite expensive. Loads of Gucci kit to be had. Some huge improvement over "issue". Much a bit delicate, but at least not heavy. "Civi" is about enjoying the view, not your tabbing feet. No brainer buys are: the Skrama, thinking man's Gollock; and the new Grayl Ultrapress water filter press. Wish they were about when I was younger.. Lofty taught me, and I taught Ray Mears how to shoot; 30 years ago!

[@peterhoughton3770]

unfortunately in australia if i camped like that, the stone wall would be home to hundreds of critters who would dance across your body all night. But love that lightweight poncho.

[@jimmccoys5778]

Love the channel mate!!! Sorry to see you taking a break but I totally understand!!! Nest of luck and be well!!! Hope to see you back soon!!

[@salsepulveda494]

A 'Woobie' is a quilted blanket with tie-offs that can be fastened to the eyelets inside of the Poncho. After doing so, if you fold it in half and snap it together, you'll have a waterproof sleeping bag. You can even throw it over your head when it rains. It's waterproof unless you get a leak where your head is placed. At this point, you've already secured the outlet for your head, but sometimes, it leaks. However, the quilted blanket is also somewhat water resistant. So....you have a lower profile and your highest point is when you're sleeping on your side. There's no tent in that case. When you need to hurry, just get out of it, roll it up and you're on your way. You'll probably be sleeping with your boots on in this case. The Commander probably said, 'Be ready to move quickly'. You'll be sleeping with one eye open.

[@hildegardkhelfa]

I use such a Tarp-Poncho type since years and am very fond of it, especially when we have those constantly changes of weather. Originally I was just looking for an all weather protection for dog walks and when I drove to work with my bicycle and learned just then that it can be used as tarp. I don't know, how you feel about it, but in mine, the body temperature stays pleasant and one is not sweating and wet from sweat like in many other rain clothes. Also for bushcraft or tours in gemeral a real win.

[@Northeast-SouthwestOutdoors]

Wow, this just popped up 3 hours after using mine when the weather turned on the way back from a canoe overnighter! Poncho style in the canoe then tarp whilst waiting for my lift🤧👍

[@robshirewood5060]

Ever tried using one as a sail in a canoe? Takes skill and practice, but I saw a gorgeous young lady trying it out on a lake successfully a few years before the China virus caused lockdown. Not a bad idea for survival travel perhaps.

[@Northeast-SouthwestOutdoors]

@@robshirewood5060 no, but I could have done with it yesterday! I might have to get on that Rob👍

[@jeffmccausland3569]

@@robshirewood5060 The China virus? Thanks for letting us know that you're a Trumper.

[@robshirewood5060]

@@jeffmccausland3569 China made, China modified 100 times to be more deadly to humans, China spread it by allowing thousands of Chinese people to travel, I am a medic, with a qual in virology. It's origin is Chinese so it's a China virus. As for Trump, as many of my American relatives have said to me, "Best damned President we have had for 50 years", and imho even Donald Duck would be better than the current POTUS. Apologies if I upset anyone. Not here for politics.

[@TheModularDiver]

The snaps work great to create a "bivy" with the USGI poncho liner in temperate climates. Also used to close up the sides when wearing in has a poncho

[@Grayman58]

Another thing to remember is when shaping ponchos together make sure you snap them the correct way or you will have the rain dripping in . Seems simple but a lot of civvy people don't know this simple fact 🇬🇧

[@Grayman58]

@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 🇬🇧

[@mtwoodsmen4563]

Hey Nick the snaps on the side while you can snap another poncho to it there more for snapping them when your wearing it so it don't blow around and for use with a poncho liner or woobie as many people call it to form a makeshift sleeping bag

[@camocarper24871]

Take those bloody cords off and stash them. They will snag when in poncho mode and potentially rip it. Have a look at the Helikon swagman roll as an insulative item that's multi use.

[@HughPecon]

The swagman is just fantastic.

[@BlesamaSoul]

Who doesn't love time under their poncho? 😎 Bags... Magni 25 or the smaller Modi you can get them in a range of civvy colours and multicam. Useful design as you can pack them tight with kit and the clamshell zipper makes it easy to access rather than having to root about like top load bags. Quality build and zips. More traditional look at the Berghaus Centurio or Munro, tried tested and still a good choice that won't let you down. Great video, you've motivated me to get out and about again after a lazy summer 👍

[@memphischuck]

The Hidden Woodsmen edc backpack is awesome

[@stuearth5076]

The poppers along the side are to connect the sides together when using it as a poncho, used a poncho like this for years for driving mopeds/motorbikes in Viet Nam

[@stuearth5076]

Like you did at the end! Should wait to comment maybe!!!

[@mallyredfearn6834]

Almost identical to me! Helikon-tex poncho, survival bag and mylar blanket! I do carry 4 titanium pegs too. Can't be messing around sometimes; and also a little duct tape for an emergency repair to the poncho is a must..

[@alanevans4232]

Thanks Nick, brilliant video. Your face was a picture when you realised you had spare cord in your pocket. My everyday pack is a "Direct Action Ghost MKII" it has a removable Admin pouch and is covered with molle attachment, mine is plain green and is, probably, the most comfortable day pack I have ever carried. The pack is, I think, about 28 liters.

[@danstarfella8303]

OSPREY Back Packs are my most loved to be honest brother

[@Foxtrottangoabc]

Agrree I've got two osprey packs . One 38litre and a 10litre synchro for mtb bike packing . They are well made , comfortable with their mesh backs to reduce back sweat that really does work. Good attention to detail 👌 🙂

[@maverickrodriguez7213]

Lol here in the US i have used the poncho as a tent before during field problems, also the malr studs and female studs are to make up a sort of bivy with it. If you have the woobie or formally called “poncho liner” you can make shift a poncho into a light sleeping bag. Some of my prior scouts claimed to have pushed it into the high 50°f mid 40°f I personally use it for tarps or add an insulation on my sleep system when in the field.

[@maverickrodriguez7213]

@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 i wonder how cold is up there right now, but the best of luck there bud! I was surprised to see the amount of stuff you put on your ruck. You could look into medium rucks from here in the US. For the winter if it gets too cold. You wont be able to push the complete winter system for more than 1-2 days but for every other season it will do great and has a external frame too. I love that thing 💪🏻 Helikon tex, a polish company has the matilda backpack which is smaller than our ALICE backpack but maybe you will like it too. They were popular when i deployed there.

[@andrewcolella1755]

Great vidio Nick as always great tips and sound advice 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@antonycrow1657]

I have one of those poncho 's. They are a fantastic bit of kit. I have jungle knots on my cordage as I am rubbish at knots.

[@Wtfisakilometer_]

Tactical tailors bags wouldn't be a bad choice. The flourescent orange backing makes searching for gear a bit easier.

[@optomisticostomistsmith501]

Love to hear a RM talking knots Nick. Such fond memories of ham fisted bootnecks working part of ship on various sleek grey angels of death 😁😂😂😂😂😂 great vid shippers

[@joeydr1497]

I have a DD magic carpet that I can put on as a plaid or great kilt in a sort of anorak configuration that has space in the back for my pack

[@kittycato2023]

Guess what i added to my kit? Heavy duty 6.00 shower curtains! Use as extra tarp..or tobcollect water..put hole in the muddle. Use punched holes on top..use branches..to act as tent poles...in a circle. Wit hole in middle it can drip down into the cuo with wide range if curtain catching alot if rain.

[@johndenver8277]

Excellent channel. I do love dave canterbry of pathfinder school, but you are the real deal also top Mark's.

[@iamsemjaza]

Open-eye needles can be nice for shakey-hand threading

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

A replacement pack, try the off the beaten track, Russian Veshmeshok. No zip to break, extremely versatile and adaptable. The space blanket and foil. Are for me emergency shelter. As they make you sweat very quickly.

[@jack_batterson]

Ponchos are brilliant, so versatile. USGI ponchos can be snapped up the sides to form more of a jacket, arms poking out the sides, and keep the poncho from flapping about in the breeze. A nice feature when moving in adverse weather. I've no experience with the Helikon.

[@webb618]

Thanks nick! This was just what I needed to see this morning. I have a poncho like that, but have never actually used it. I’ll give it a try today. I always learn something new in your videos. Usually as just a quick side note. The crush and stuff vs fold method makes sense and will pass that pro tip to the kids when we do all the things. Thanks again! Keep up the good work

[@peterkinberger9741]

This old deactivated American Marine from early to mid 70's used military ponchos and shelter half systems. Each Marine carried a poncho and a shelter half (tent half) . In the field under normal conditions two Marines would snap together their shelter halves to make a tent. If traveling light, ponchos were snapped together to make a tent. Under normal conditions the hoods that cover the head of a person were tied on both sides of the improvised poncho tent. When away from a water source, the hoods could be used as a water catch under rainy conditions, with or without the helmets . Helmets served as a collection bowl. Pulling the hood drawstring could also form a type of improvised bowl. If a Marine was solo in the bush or field, his shelter half could be snapped together with his poncho to create a tent shelter. The shelter half by itself or even the poncho by itself could make very effective open air sheltering. Each Marine was issued three pole sections that could be inserted into each other to make a single pole support and six stakes. The stakes were shaped in such a way that they could be used many ways to hold down tents or shelters. The stakes could be sharpened at the point and along the sides to create an improvised spear for combat or hunting animals for food. Without the poles and stakes one would improvise by cutting a sapling close to the ground and covering up the tiny stump to conceal it. If there is a stream nearby one could fashion stakes and poles over the stream to let the chips float away or one could dig a hole and do his carving over the hole then covering it up , blending the whole affair with the terrain or vegetation. As you are aware, in combat situations, evidence of existence is never left behind. I hope this helps your understanding, my Royal Brother ! Semper Fidelis with a big Oorah !

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

@ Peter, you mentioned something, very specific, that I haven't seen addressed by anyone else... Of course one always has (supposed to have) "trash discipline" and brushing your tracks so in a SHTF scenario your having been there isn't noted. But I'd never thought about wood chips from whitling/wood dust from sawing until I read your post. Semper Fi from Semper Paratus !

[@Triumph_Explorer]

Watched a couple of vlogs now. Great info for newbies and old timers. Subscribed.

[@MichaelB2L]

Bag recommendation: I’ve had my 5.11 rush 12 for a 3 years now. It’s been to Australia and back with me and I use it everyday as my gym/to work and back bag. It’s holding up nicely, no wear and tear yet. Only downside it is obviously very tacticool

[@Alan-zf2tt]

I did like to use a poncho until high winds gusting up to 70-100 mph meant trail was "officially" closed. It did go up a small mountain. When the rain came it lashed. Put mid-weight poncho on and it was a health hazard. It caught gusts, billowed, flapped tugged and so was soon scrunched away into backpack. I think ponchos have a place but like all things: wisdom of use is important. Luckily I was wearing Paramo kit so just tightened the cords buckled down the backpack, head down pose balanced and strode through it. I detached backpack waterproof cover as it acted as a parachute. But above all - it was great! Happy Outdoors 🙂 EDIT: ps if it is predictable sometimes it is not as much fun as the unpredictable. Even if it does not feel like that at the time

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

I have two ponchos that are flecktarn pattern, had them since 2010, they popper together and make a good size shelter that two can easily sleep under. Can’t remember the manufacturer to be honest. I also have two polish poncho’s which can make a tent. Lavvu.

[@robertdavies3460]

you can't beat an oxo or bovril cube for your drink, it'll replenish your salts and has a lovely beefy flavour too

[@xingmenneigong]

I have the exact same helikon camogrom poncho, i edc that with a swagman roll and a canvas poncho i put a zip on and turned it into a bivi, complete sleep and shelter system. thanks for the vid

[@ilya.petersen]

I've been using a similar setup for a while now. A tarp/poncho from Varusteleka, which I can set up in a lean to shelter with a ridge line, prusiks, and two guy lines. And I carry some extra line that I use to tie around the hood to be able to pull it up slightly to give myself a bit more room. And when I wear the poncho I also wear a baseball cap to keep the hood from obstructing my vision.

[@jamieedwards6721]

Have a look at the savotta 202 as a replacement EDC bag. Savotta are tough as old boots and expert bag makers since 1955 and are designed for Finnish elite forces however the Savotta 202 looks very civilian especially in black making it ideal for an EDC bag. only 15 litre pack though so on the smaller side, no bells and whistles but sometimes basic is best.

[@Edward2092009]

You can use a haversack, something plane not too tactical. Great Video...

[@richardhutchinson4740]

Small savotta jäkari s is a great bag. I use the medium along with some large or medium molle pouches for longer expeditions but for a day sack their s is really good. Vareusteleka also do a really good poncho. A wax canvas haversack also a good piece of kit.

[@edwardroycroft7413]

Nick something I have done on my poncho is have little flat pockets sewn on the corners where I have cord with a velcro seal. So I can just stuff the cord into them. Then the cords can’t tangle on each other and are not dangling when in use.

[@craiglawson8804]

Loving the knot tip at the end. After having a vw camper for many a Yr and now going back to tent /hammock I've forgotten that knot 👍easy pull with no hassle. Cheers nick 👍👍

[@myepicjourney8275]

Cool! I was hoping that it would rain to see how this poncho holds up. Toronto Ontario Canada.

[@LOFIGSD]

Add a couple of cable ties in the pack, saved a tent pole for me a few months ago, very light and strong, a few safety pins is handy too for split trousers, trying to thread a needle with wet cold hands not easy!

[@monkeyboy6590]

511 tactical makes a pack called the "Covert 18". Great pack for everyday carry and doesn't look tactical at all. When I was in Afghanistan, we snapped 3 together for cover. You can also snap it in itself to make a bivy, stuff it with leaves to make a bed, or turn it into a hammock,. Best piece of gear in my bag. Semper Fi!

[@adam_1t641]

Know I'm a bit late to the party but helikon make good edc bags that come in a bunch of colours

[@TrishCanyon8]

I have the helkion poncho, works wonderfully in downpours. And the dd 3×3 tarp. Now I just have to set them up. Thanks for all the tips.

[@Glasshousebc]

Enjoyable watch with my Sunday morning coffee, cheers Royal. Stay well, Steve

[@hikerdoc6771]

Very good. I carry a DD Super light rip stop tarp 3m X 2.9m. Good quality kit. I fell out of love with ponchos some time ago!

[@briandolloff6193]

I've used two Pancho's together works good

[@armingilsdorf9675]

Great, thx for sharing! BTW me using the old Bundeswehr, German Army, Poncho, a bit heavier, but bullit proof..... sometimes thinking to go for a light one....but, hey, I‘ve got one.....I’ll take it as training 😉 to carry heavier load....

[@derbybushcraftandoutdoors3176]

Great video as always and thanks for the instructions on cord storage

[@kennethwilson8633]

You need a wool blanket so you have the perfect bed roll with that poncho preferred it to a sleeping bag win I was in the military. Give it a try way better than a poncho liner.

[@clayl9202]

Excellent video series you've provided, thanks for that. My suggestion for a new pack is the Mystery Ranch Blitz 35, and the small Pack Fly as a rain cover for it. I use it for one- to two-night excursions, it has plenty of room and excellent access. They make a smaller version of it as well that is a 30L, a bit smaller. I like the extras on the 35L though. Good luck picking a new pack!

[@gilbert7794]

one if the best bit if issued kit i had, far better than water proofs as they only made you sweat and leave you just as wet.

[@willjohnson1273]

Did a multi MOD poncho city many moons ago on a weekend in MONMOUTH training area was only in place for a couple of nights I think but yeah the bonus of the group and shared heat elements made it quite nice.

[@stephanielongden597]

Subscribed and liked. Love the tips and your personality.

[@davidanderson8407]

With you on the needle kit my day pack strap broke after climbing to the top of waterfall in India.(many years ago!!!)My companions were well impressed when i pulled out my sewing kit in an old multivitamin bottle.

[@kurtsteiner8384]

I have several. Very cheap tarp from blacks has a pole with it. American emergency blanket from corporal kelly. Silver emergency blanket. Depends what i am doinv, have several burners from chinese coppy of pocket rocket. Several bluet canmling stoves. And trangia 27 alco burner and gas burner.

[@billyblastoff7027]

I pack three poncho tarps together and made a tube tent super shelter

[@jeremymoses7401]

Helikon tex is a Polish brand gone international.🤣 good quality gear though, been using mine all night

[@tobycowern5677]

If this is Helikon Tex it's actually Polish produced. You can try and order direct from their Polish based store, probably cheaper than buying from the USA.

[@thematrix28]

I love your vids but I have a challenge, the reason for the challenge is I see outdoor survival etc and you all have ropes, knives and other equipment to use in the wild. So my challenge is start from nothing no equipment just your bare hands and make a camp, start a fire, make traps or find food and water even clothing from nothing, completely unequipped but show us how to survive. I think this would be brilliant content for your channel and I think you would love that challenge and us as viewers would love to see it and learn from it too. Thank you and God bless you sir.

[@marmadukegrimwig]

Great film, as always.

[@LomoWatersport]

Great video. Not your standard EDC bag but our 40L drybag Rucksack is a popular option. No zips. Waterproof. Lots of storage. Team Lomo

[@MrCyberiad1]

LK35 as a replacement rucksack for the woods

[@EricTheSwede]

Quality content per usual! Helikon-Tex is probably the best thing out of Poland since the bagel!

[@EricTheSwede]

And also, finding another man that loves Aromat as much as I do is absolutely amazing!

[@FumblingArborist]

Wonderful video, cheers mate! Check out the Savotta Jääkäri M, or the other sizes. Savotta make the Finnish military packs and harnesses. The Jaeger series of packs is based on the Finnish Border Patrol design. Never let me down during my stint as a Jaeger there ;)

[@varnellhopkinsiii6863]

I wish I could get a good explanation of why we did away with the poncho in favor of a tarp(basha) in the us military. The ability to use it as rainwear makes ponchos superior, in my opinion. I would most likely keep both if I get back out in the field.

[@jimcy1318]

Good tip with the aromat, I always carry Bovril or Oxo but I think I'm going to try that one 👍

[@robman247]

Nice show and tell there there Nick yes putting both ponchos together made a nice 2 man hotel 🏨 😂 in the field with room service the maids were nice waking us up in the morning on time for stand to, when I was stationed in Hawaii we used bungee cords then work great 👍 , I don’t have no replacement backpack 🎒 to recommend but would a school bag do out there 👍👌✌️🎒🇺🇸