You Have To Be Ready To Protect Yourself - Overlanding Rain Camping Adventure

[@htuckey]

I'm an 82 year old Army vet, trying to get back on my feet after surviving stage 3 esophageal cancer that cost me my esophagus and most of my stomach. Back in the day I used to do a lot of camping, mostly in a Boy Scout Explorer tent, and I really enjoyed it. I've been watching your videos, and they've got me wanting to go camping again, but in a vehicle instead of a tent. Hoping to do a bit of that this summer. I really enjoy your reviews and all your comments. No BS, and no agenda is the way to go, as far as I'm concerned. I can't do much hiking, as my lungs are shot due to working with a bunch of different toxic chemicals in my early 20s. But I can still enjoy being out in the woods and on the back roads. This is just to let you know that you (and Susie) are a big part pf that. Thank you, my friend, and keep on going! Strength and Honor -

[@misstine71]

My husband also worked around toxic chemicals (in the printing industry) and I saw the toll it took on him, he passed away last August. So glad to hear you are going to get out there and do some camping ❤

[@nickkearney4083]

My condolences on the cancer, there are camper vans that may work for you and assist you in your goals. Hope you find one that works for you.

[@Rebecca-e4k]

Hello good sir, if you go out there please make sure you take a weapon to defend your sel lock your doors and always have your keys ready in any situation.

[@matthewpenny7946]

I thank you for your service sir! Also f cancer and I raise a toast for you!! Enjoy enjoy camping as you can not matter what it is its better then not doing it. 🙂

[@LisaKayOGQueen]

Love and Light! I hope you get back to camping soon!🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@razorsharpbt124]

One thing I learned from being in law enforcement is that, no matter where you are and what time it is, someone is milling around and has eyes on you. You can think you're in the most remote place and you're alone, but you're not. Obviously, I'm very suspicious of people because I've seen their propensity for evil, but I try to stay grounded because it takes a toll.

[@alexanderlawson1649]

You paranoid bastard.

[@JohnSmith-cf4gn]

We are not safe anywhere. That's why I pray for God's protection for me and my family.

[@dzoutdoor3335]

@@JohnSmith-cf4gnGods protection is the best but when he’s busy I pray for a quick draw and steady aim to protect my family!😂

[@pdw227]

So true! Thanks for your Service

[@chiefkirk]

I'm also former LEO and I'm always aware and prepared. Thanks for your service brother.

[@jessies6502]

Something you might consider doing, is backing your vehicle into your parking spot; you'll be facing out, ready to go, if you decide you need to leave in a hurry.

[@bc4yt]

Also consider parking "sideways" so they can't block you in - you can get around them, either forwards or reverse.

[@rogersweet_OP]

Either of these comments are correct. However, he does have that road in front of him.

[@arizonabeaver3760]

@@bc4yt Just people were driving around and tweaking in the forest, wondering who was in their neck of the woods. In the day, it would not be so scary. Run, and the prey will chase; stand your ground, and they will back down.

[@bdmenne]

@@bc4ytI like that advise a lot. 2 pest are a lot LESS common than one loner

[@bc4yt]

@@bdmenne always leave enough space between you and the car in front at the lights too, so you can turnsl your wheels and move out if you need to.

[@patrickholland6848]

We had a saying when I was in the Fire Service "Nothing good happens after midnight." Those guys were definitely up to no good at 2am.

[@deanhockenberry9268]

I concur, I had a friend decades ago who was a police officer. He preferred working the overnight hours and explained that it was easier because nothing good happens after midnight.

[@uuuultra]

@@deanhockenberry9268or he was just a lazy cop

[@jerrywilliams3544]

Yup remember the beginning of the video he said a car would not make it to that spot. Imagine speeding down it on a bike. 1. They must know the area well. 2. Probably intoxicated or on drugs, definitely not much care for life. Their own let alone others.

[@packers12to80]

This area....they are 100% meth'ed up😂. They probably wanted to lure him out to see who all was inside and if it was a easy chance to come up on some stuff and money.

[@jerrywilliams3544]

@@packers12to80 that explains it. lol . Makes sense

[@aypanthony]

Yup, first aid kit, vehicle self recovery equipment, fire extinguisher and a pew pew is what I go out with. Stay safe

[@gregsalerno1434]

Pew ,Pew that is funny !!

[@wendelclements6448]

I always have protection

[@Gixx-yh4ih]

Is he in Canada? No pew pew allowed

[@lovingfran1541]

I’m glad you’re okay. I am a 60 year old black female that never thought about camping until lately, would like to purchase a van and drive all over the US. Your videos help me to figure out what gear to get. 🙏 Thanks 🙏

[@leliatanner3628]

I am a 66yrs old black female this is own my bucket list 🦋

[@stephanieyuhas64]

I love camping it's so peaceful! And I enjoy tent camping the most. I have a 42ft fifth wheel camper I bought five years ago thinking that what I wanted... And now I rather pitch my tent!!

[@LaoSoftware]

Greetings from Laos. Do it now. Life is short. Travel all 50 states and collect souvenirs from each state. Then travel around the world and experience new cultures. It's called vacations.

[@waynehaydon7960]

Keep travelling!

[@williamharris7187]

This channel is great youtube.com/@CheapRVliving?si=jpuL6xOgrEsu8jH4

[@pam-gw6uk]

When I see locations like this, the film "Deliverance" springs to mind.

[@cdc19845]

YIKES

[@RandomVelocity]

lol I just told Luke he should’ve watched that movie before he went on this adventure lol😂

[@mannyg9059]

If you hear banjos, it may be too late for a loner selling space age gadgets such as yourself. If you have pretty lips and can squeal like a pig, brother you're doomed. lol

[@oldmanballer5088]

That’s why banjos started playing!😂🤣😂

[@hithere7382]

You need a river to sell Deliverance.

[@AniwayasSong]

Sadly, the world has never lacked in assholes or jerks, and that's putting it politely. Anyone traveling alone, but especially camping/hiking/hunting out in the 'Sticks,' had better have their safety/security at the forefront of their mind/attention. Carrying protection (There are many kinds) is mandatory, and if you can also manage it, get yourself a good trusty Doggo! They're outstanding 'First Alert' systems, and depending on what Breed you pair-up with, also excellent deterrents to things that might be out seeking to cause trouble/harm. Enjoy our world, yes! Do so safely and protected!

[@NadesikoRose]

I agree….if you can afford one. I have come to realize over the years that there are many who shouldn’t have pets of any kind and there are those who genuinely love and want a pet but can’t afford the care and upkeep of one.

[@AniwayasSong]

@@NadesikoRose Absolutely agree! Critters are a lifetime (Theirs OR ours) commitment. :-)

[@egomaniac247]

Absolutely agree on the dogs. The best warning system money can buy. A dog just knows way before you do that something or someone is approaching.

[@AniwayasSong]

@@egomaniac247 :-)

[@uuuultra]

upvote

[@ReasontoLiveAdventures]

The first book I purchased, at age 13, was Bushido The Way of the Warrior( original Shogun mini-series heavily influenced my life). Duty, honor, filial piety, etc are the foundation of who I am. Trails is a great name. Day 80 of chemo and still doing ok. 🤙⛺️

[@timspeich884]

Nothing is more important than a good name for the vehicle! "Trails" is a great choice considering the amount of time you spend doing just that. I hope you & Trails have a long relationship!

[@stevestormssr5492]

I just spent last week in Parris Island, Beaufort, SC. for my Grandsons' Marine Boot Camp Graduation. We drove back through Jacksonville, FL to go back to Dallas. The next morning I woke up with a terrible sore throat and runny nose. in over five years I have not had one sick day! This I believe is allergies and not a cold. Mowing my small yard kicked my butt yesterday and I spent the rest of the day in bed. I don't take drugs, only vitamin supplements! At 71 years old I'd say that is pretty good.

[@cynaptyc]

71 years of fighting back against every germ, yeah, one sick day sounds fair to the germs! 😮😂 53, myself and I get a sick one 1 time about every 2 and maybe 3 years. While everyone else in my household of 4 is always getting something! Lol Love having a good immune system! PS I live 20 miles south of Jacksonville in Green Cove Springs!

[@ceceliaschriner4255]

​0@@cynaptyc

[@davidpupecki7567]

Long time supporter. I’m a Police Detective in Massachusetts and I know you can take care of yourself. My sons going to the University of Alabama this fall and I’ll be doing several long road trips car camps to and from. One camper I fallow “kenny of all trades “ sets up motion detector around his camp site. I’ll be adopting this practice around my suv as I’d rather have some notice the. Open my eyes to someone right outside. Your camps are like therapy thank you for what you do.

[@maryjomccallister9102]

Roll Tide Roll!

[@alinatamashevich3354]

Roll Tide

[@davidpupecki7567]

@@alinatamashevich3354 can’t wait !!!

[@hithere7382]

Being LEO you should be aware that you can use dogs for this. My german shepherds do not like obnoxiously loud people and they have truly gigantic ears with which to hear the idiots coming long before they can see you on a mountain road or any circuitous route.

[@mysryael]

@@hithere7382 same for my Aussies, and my Catahoula/Border Collie mix. They don't let people come into any area where "thier" family is without announcing a new presence in the camp.

[@sophisticat3d_savag3]

Fight or flight is real. Glad you're not on the rougher side of this one. People can be so ignorant and disrespectful at times. I don't think they'd want to bother you out of all people though. When I camp solo, I was taught to put up a game trail camera or I now have a wireless camera with a light that illuminates and records anything bigger than a small animal. Just an extra sense of security. Thanks for taking us along on your adventures!

[@navyvet3660]

Where did you buy the wireless camera.

[@hithere7382]

Why do you not just use a dog(s) for this? They're a lot more reliable than battery operated technology.

[@sophisticat3d_savag3]

@@hithere7382 - Dogs are a lot more expensive, and a bigger investment than a one-time purchase and connecting to my 5G hotspot. It's just like having a home security system away from home. My camera was cost-effective and it works enough for me to feel safer. Having lethal and less-than-lethal options as backups helps too. I don't put all my trust in that camera. When I'm solo, I sleep really light and I'm constantly aware of my surroundings.

[@idhatemet00]

@@hithere7382 i have a dog, but to be fair, a dog can't be used to record evidence. a camera however, can.

[@arizonabeaver3760]

@@hithere7382 Exactly.

[@rz-zd2dd]

"Standing up for what's right and helping others.". Just defined what a man should be. Thanks Luke.

[@thedarknessunderneathpodca6366]

A man or a woman, anybody who is decent.

[@ADanNeedsAName]

I spend a lot of time on trails in areas like this in Virginia. Most of the time when I see people driving on trails we wave to each other, I always politely say hi and chat with the people in the little mom and pop shops in mountain towns. In my experience, people in Appalachia are generally great down to earth folks and give you back what you give them, so be polite and friendly and that's what you get back.

[@PringlesCan-y7m]

@BaalDaBonecrushrrr-bx9pc yep. dont want someone coming over and being friendly, never know their true intentions, rather they just keep to themselves and be on their way not knowing anything about my situation.

[@ParaBob12004]

Luke first off let Me introduce MyselF to You.. I'm a former Airborne Soldier from the UK I served in the 3rd 2nd and 1st and the (10th Reserves)Battalions of the Parachute Regiment I really enjoy your relaxed pace and calm videos where you explain everything in great detail in a manner quite different to most survival channel's. Now I'm Retired on Medical grounds I find that I have too much time on My hands So I often practice the survival skills I've learnt and adapted over the Year's and although due to the nature of My illness I can no Longer venture too far from civilization I find watching Your videos an inspiration therefore I would like to thank You on behalf of Your British following

[@MyHome7_Carla]

Even though you served in the UK, thank your service, sir

[@alexanderweaver7066]

TRAILS is a great name for your 4Runner. I live and travel throughout our country in a GMC Savana cargo van. I put most of my gear in storage to allow me to spend the least amount of time setting up camp. No more awning, no more privacy tent, outdoor grill. Everything is in my van. I pull up and I'm set to camp (boondock). I eat, sleep and perform functions in my van. I carry a 20-ga protection alongside my bed. In over 2 years, I have never had to remove it from my bedside. I have over 30K miles with no issues. I plan to travel until I can no longer drive. My entertainment is watching your videos, Netflix and listening to multiples of music playlists. I am a happy nomad.

[@jameskocks4734]

I usually don’t comment but those window screens are fricking awesome

[@ericwitt4586]

I was a firefighter and emt for over six years I’ve paid my debts to my community Luke now all I want to just retire and move up to my cabin and just be at peace with myself and the lord I sun just like everybody I’m not a religious man but I do believe in God I just want happiness and I’ve found it at my off grid cabin in the Appalachian mountains bud so wish me well thanks buddy !!!!

[@LaoSoftware]

Greetings from Laos. Thank you for your service. As a retired American living in Laos, I hope one day that Laos will have great firefighters and emt like the USA. Did you know Laos is the most bombed country in the world? Yes, the USA bombed them in the 1960's and 1970's during the Vietnam War. It's so unfair how the US government just victimized Laos and left them damaged.

[@george0r510]

@@LaoSoftware it is the criminal way of the U S A it is all being exposed as of late, now with the other problems the U S A has with all the LIES. They lied about many, many things...... it is not good how people were treated, and the methods used, by powerful people, not careing about the least of our brothers in sisters.......myself included. There is so much to it, it would take a long time just to explain. It is all about, leaders who were distorted and used power, unjustly for nefarious reasons, at least that is my opinion. If one looks very close it is obvious, and it is telling now...

[@tennessee978]

Peace. Peaceful. Thank you both for your service…Eastern Oregon for me. I have a cabin in the Eagle Cap Wilderness; it’s my idea of “heaven.” I’d say we nailed it, Luke! Hey, you just received a “shout out!” How cool💥💥

[@user-bo1rj2xu2s]

So, do it.

[@ztkrx]

wishing you luck. enjoy and have fun.

[@KATHLEEN-bi9bg]

I admire your readiness for most any situation,including self-protection! Can't wait to see next episode!

[@janiceevans]

Absolutely!! I live next to a 97 year old woman that was literally knocking on heavens door. She detoxed, changed her diet and is back out working with this 67 year old woman that is disabled and tearing down a garage for nostalgic reasons.... You go. I don't have patience for snivelers either🥰🤗.... Strength and honor 🤟

[@Cdubb89]

Somehow the most satisfying part of every one of your videos is coffee time. I can just imagine being out there sipping a fresh cup of black coffee.

[@homerfeltheim12345]

I e been a double amputee for 3 years. These videos help get me motivated to get back out and start living again. Keep up the great content

[@bryanparryhunter]

you could proibably have alot of fun making a channel about that! I'm sure there are alot of people who would appreciate your perspective on outdoor gear and critiqueing products so they can be less abliest in the future. I have a bunch of shrapnel from afghanistan in me and have my own difficulties with gear or limitations based on that disability. I'd watch yout stuff!

[@homerfeltheim12345]

@@bryanparryhunterthanks man. Once I’m at a point where physically I can do more I’ll sefijktly consider it

[@bryanparryhunter]

@@homerfeltheim12345 whatever helps you live your best life, man. No worries if you do or don't. Just wanna be supportive 😉

[@ellenpowers919]

@@homerfeltheim12345I would watch! My disability is nowhere as severe as yours, but I urge do need a YT channel for those of us with disabilities. I haven’t found a channel that even mentions us.

[@tinas1383]

So sorry that you weren't feeling good+had the flu,but that shows what kind of person you are,still thinking of us+wanting to film a video for us!❤ So glad you're all better

[@bobhead6243]

I love Toyota 4 / 4 's great build and engines that last for years .

[@justinglock20]

People will do whatever they think they can get away with. It's your responsibility not to let them.

[@turdferguson7264]

Glad you're ok Luke. Its a crazy world out there sometimes.

[@charlesglegg7330]

"I had my hand on my handgun." Been camping alone since I was 14, always with a 22 rifle. Then later when I was more mature a 22 pistol. Never had to pull on anything more dangerous than a hungry racoon. But yeah it did help to keep me warm on some spooky nights. Now I have all the stuff the cool kids have, including a billon candle power flash light. So its option one: blind them back. Option two : things that keep me warm at night.

[@egmjag]

Happiness is a warm gun according to the Beatles

[@Addy-ft4ps]

You really love your food, Luke. Nice to see someone appreciate and enjoy simple meals.

[@K_3_R_R]

I love it when people say, "I can't stand people who complain." Technically that in itself is complaining, right?

[@brendablackington8299]

Technically, your complaining about people complaining, IS complaining too! Lol

[@choomanfoo157]

Not really it's just a statement, it's like saying I don't like sandwiches, its not complaining its a statement. Complaining is saying something wishing things were different, his statement is the acceptance of the dissatisfaction.

[@K_3_R_R]

@choomanfoo157 That isn't what it means at all. He said, "I don't like people who complain." That is a statement correct, but it in itself is a complaint that he dislikes those who complain, thus being an ironic and oxymoronic statement.

[@K_3_R_R]

@brendablackington8299 correct, but I wasn't the one who made the statement. I could care less if people complain. Waste your life on matters that have no hope and / or reason to change. I merely was just asking a rhetorical and ironic question about an oxymoronic statement, not starting a debate.

[@kelleylea5]

I love it when people argue about something silly, it gives me something to laugh about. 😉😂

[@DashcamAdventures4U]

Wow, Luke's camping adventure turned into a real adrenaline-pumping moment! It's a good thing he was prepared and stayed alert. The way he handled the situation calmly and responsibly shows the importance of being ready to protect yourself when exploring remote areas. Stay safe out there, Luke, and keep those awesome overlanding stories coming!

[@lilyLily1824]

That actually is smart. He creates engagement. It’s good for his channel!

[@michaelmartin4883]

Walk softly but allways carry a big stick. 😊

[@TheJavaGuru78]

You mean a boom stick?

[@alybridgwater3282]

Stick them with the pointy end

[@michaelmartin4883]

@@TheJavaGuru78 well the literature I referenced simply said a big stick.

[@echo6echo419]

This was a quote by President Teddy Roosevelt. Consequently, the aircraft carrier, Theodore Roosevelt was nicknamed, "The big stick".

[@HighSpeedNoDrag]

HK-51 .308

[@sheenarader6495]

So thankful you did not have an "altercation" with the rude night visitors! May God keep you safe under His wings! 🙏

[@Tinkerbell1975cp]

I’m single 48 female who travels and Wht I have done is a good speaker n the barking of a big dog that I would play if someone tried anything. It has worked twice for me. Be careful out there!

[@melodyblanchard2017]

thats a great idea

[@j.l.salayao8055]

Make sure to put your big dog attire and shake your vehicle a little while the speaker is making a barking noise.🤫

[@anastasiae.5338]

That's one good thing about camping with dogs. They will alert me to anyone getting at all close. Of course, they also will bark at regular night noises. I always park with the thought that I may have to leave quickly, so it's always pointed outward and toward a safe way to leave. I hate how many of these camping or van life videos mention someone bothering them for no reason at all. I go out away from society because I want it to leave me alone.

[@lindawoody8501]

In my experience having lived in three Southern states at times, when driving into a neighborhood in the South in many spots, the residents wave at you. Not really all being friendly as it serves to check you out a little. Some also is hospitality and kindness but like I mention a lot is seeing who you may be and what you may want to do in the area.

[@lisocampos8080]

Watching these videos reminds me of playing resident evil with tank controls.

[@melissameyer9981]

Super glad you carry. Thanks for taking us along.

[@everythingloud4068]

I have dealt with this issue a lot in Montana, usually its just kids out drinking and driving the mountain roads in the middle of the night

[@MayWhite-bz7xl]

Trails is an excellent name. I still drive my 2005 4 Runner it still looks nice and blends right in with the new SUV's lots of people have asked me for it but I won't budge. The food looked very tasty.

[@ColoringGoatlover913]

I just found your channel. I love adventure channels. Hubby and I do light hiking and I love nature. You are a true gentleman. You have a super clean channel and great advice and adventure. Thank you for having integrity and truly being a gentleman. There are so few today. Your family is blessed. Camp on.....I'll be watching. 😊

[@MiGhost3]

Luke, love your no-nonsense outdoor camping & gear reviews. I haven't done any camping since mid-90s. I had a weird experience camping locally at Snow Canyon. After setting up and grilling 4 camp fire dinners, we ate 2 and left 2 for later consumption. We then went on an early evening stroll. About an hour later, we returned to our camp to find one of our camp fire dinners gone. It spooked the both of us and left us on edge.

[@kellyspann9845]

I always setup a couple of trail cameras if possible at my campsite when I leave for a stroll just in case. You never know.

[@Truth1561]

Absolutely agree with your positive philosophy. My daughter has MS. She ran the London Marathon in just under 5 hrs two weeks ago to raise money for the MS charity who supported her when she was first diagnosed and feeling devastated. She is my hero and the epitome of getting on with it.

[@hikinvikin]

Hi Luke. Exactly that's the reason why I prefer to go stealth. If they don't know you're there, they can't harass you. Great story and a good video. Keep 'em coming!

[@highdesertdrew1844]

I travel all over the desert southwest (AZ, NV, UT mostly) for work and play. Even though I have a home to go to, I usually sleep in the car, campsites, rest stops, truck stops, etc. I usually try to find spots a bit further from the road, or that won't be along an obvious line of drift. I've had a few encounters, nothing too serious. I do keep a 2000 lumen Streamlight flashlight handy, that also happens to be attached to a .300BLK AR pistol. One thing I do, I sleep with my head towards the hatch, and my feet towards the drivers seat. I find this makes it a lot easier to get into/out of the vehicle when you have to.

[@LisaKayOGQueen]

Campers! Put your coffee in a filter and tie it with a string. Pop in boiling water. No mess!

[@justinriley8651]

tea bag coffee ? I could see it working.

[@whathappenedtofreethinking6902]

Thanks. This is a great piece of advice. No more crap Instant coffee for me on camping trips.

[@binmatsumoto646]

Luke's Trails Tales! Stories of a man and his Forerunner! 😁

[@jessecooper9795]

4Runner

[@justbrowsing8482]

For safety especially with possible wildfire risk in the area I would have backed Trails into the same place you have her at the beginning of the video. Forward facing means seconds saved in driving off in an emergency situation. Not a criticism of you at all, just a suggestion! Love the video as always! Glad you are feeling better!

[@hokudadog7637]

Agree, always back in

[@laidbacktraveler2580]

Never apologize for cooking up and enjoying a satisfying meal!

[@denisestarr2314]

I'm 60 and have camped all over . I always have a gun . Some states don't allow non residents to carry . Uh I'm a US citizen. I will defend myself .

[@larryfisher5796]

Years ago when I used truck camping.I Always had a 357 Mag close by and like you SEAD some people are strange . STAY SAFE WHEN CAMPING AND BE SMART ALWAYS KNOW WHATS AROUND YOU 👍👍👍👍👍

[@mysryael]

I want to thank you for reminding those of us who don't go out alone that safety is our responsibility. I guess that being part of a generation that grew up knowing they needed to plan for anything they might need to be able to deal with before they left town was a routine part of our getting our stuff together before we went out the door. I hear about people getting lost, and no one has any idea of where to start looking for them. my first thought is, did you plan on falling off the trail today? NO? Check in with a Ranger's station, leave a note on the inside of your car with a contact number of a person you have filed your trip plan with. Taking things for granted is a good way of not being able to take things for granted any further.

[@lindacarr5287]

My favorite part of your videos is watching you make coffee!!! I love coffee more than life and I find it strangely relaxing! Don’t get me wrong I love your adventures too!

[@nancyoleksy]

Stay safe. People can be so crazy. Hope you are feeling much better.

[@HighSpeedNoDrag]

Stay Safe? Never heard that before. Be Agressive.

[@susantiffany2355]

Trails should be last name…first name Happy. Good luck with Happy Trails on years of fun adventures.

[@tituscrow4951]

Lone trails 🤔

[@bc58]

I don’t go anywhere unarmed. Especially backpacking and camping. The world is a different place these days. It’s a shame we have to live like this. Stay safe out there brother and stand your ground.

[@Rem-870]

When I go to the NC Mtns My Glock 23 is in the truck and My Glock 27 is on my side. I have had to many odd things happen. Now one april years ago me and a friend camped in a nice spot. We both had our 30-30s, At night we saw a bright light over the valley and we were trying to figure it out what it was. Then it hit us it was the brown Mtn light. A very neat thing to get to see. Stay safe and keep posting stuff.

[@chiphill4856]

It must suck to be that fearful.

[@Rem-870]

@@chiphill4856 I am a 24 year veteran cop I know how folks can get. Seen way to much bad . Be prepared as they say.

[@justin3993]

I just dispersed camped in the Cache National Forest last weekend. Always carry my sidearm on my hip. Everyone I always meet waves and are pleasant, but you never know.

[@bosbrolic1]

Very glad to hear you are safe. Another KZbinr I follow was recently shot in his car but is expected to make a full recovery. Those people were very lucky things did not go south for them and we all are glad to hear the situation did not escalate. Stay safe Luke!

[@chartmann43]

Omg! Who??

[@arizonabeaver3760]

@@chartmann43 Someone is trying to make a false video and wants to start a GoFundMe. lol

[@PringlesCan-y7m]

@@chartmann43 Billy Leadass

[@sunshineandgingerNL]

I think Trails is a great name for your vehicle! I have a Toyota Sienna and her name is Luna; hoping to convert her into a camper van one of these days. Love those Toyotas, can't kill them engine-wise. I agree about the salt though... my two previous Toyotas got destroyed underneath because of it. The van is going to get undercoated this summer and I'm really hoping it makes a difference! Keep doing what you do - Strength and honor!

[@MissRobbiOKC]

I enjoyed your video! And, I love the 4Runner. Toyota is the best, in my opinion. We had a Corolla bought new in 1987. We drove it until it fell apart 280k later.

[@militarypolice360]

Iam part Cherokee.my Mom and Dad Delonega..Ga.Cherokk and my Grandmother was from Oklahoma.They are smart and good people.

[@barrypitts6091]

I’ve never been one to name vehicles and such, but I lost my older brother Tommy last year. He left me his truck, so I decided to name it after him. It kinda keeps him with me.

[@sandramcarthur1866]

Sorry for your loss. May his memory be a blessing to you & yours.

[@justbrowsing8482]

Sincere condolences to you and your family.

[@rainbowriverclarkbrown]

❤️❤️

[@johns.6183]

Very cool 4Runner! I just bought a 2021 about 2 weeks ago and absolutely love it! Planning to spend a lot of time camping in the Smoky Mountains. Great job on the video. Stay safe and God bless!

[@MAGX1020]

My man, can we get an 8 hour stream of just the rain falling on the tent? So soothing. 😀

[@jaywa101]

Waymag have you watched Luke's other channel on KZbin: "A Quiet Place"? Almost no speech lots n lots of lovely sounds of nature and camping.

[@MAGX1020]

I will check it out. Thank you.

[@lindagaleano4509]

Having a group of crows around you and being vocal is a warning to you and they are trying to protect you of something or someone. Scouring your surroundings like you did is smart and it was strange from your perspective in what you found, now it’s helpful to use your intuition like animals do. Peace and many safe adventures. Sending you Ravens.

[@berthapitts2905]

I like the name trails ❤ it reminds me of Roy Roger's and his song" happy trails to you" that's how I fell about you and your new ride. Take care, and say Hi to that wonderful lady of yours.😊

[@ericbrowni3101]

Shout out to Luke! Thank you for your service, Sir!

[@Eye_4_An_Eye]

you know what bro i know u are always strapped and ready. so am i. i watched many videos of campers running into dangerous people at night. youtubers who do camping videos plus camper stories and ever since then, years ago, i made the smart choice to get my ccw and it turned out saving my life when i thought simply having my dog with me was enough. it wasnt! to anyone going out doing solo camping or even with people, always bring a gun. the world isnt like it once was. stay safe no matter what. its not a matter of IF, its a matter of WHEN. pop first ask questions after. make sure YOU make it home to your family. period!!!

[@chiphill4856]

"Pop first and ask questions later" is a great way to end up in jail

[@glennjones6004]

I also have an end of model 4Runner, a 1995 second gen. I call it the 4Unner. I have done an extensive amount of car camping in it. Years ago, I made my own magnetic window screens. I've made a lot of other little upgrades, things like power outlets and USB ports. Solar charging may be next. The one thing I like about the second-generation 4Runners is the truck-style tailgate. It makes for a nice bench seat and staging spot for loading.

[@DrJapan]

I love the sharpness, I can see every detail on the trees in the background and every detail on your fleece... Very nice !

[@bobhead6243]

Strength , Honour and respect Luke , Be Well my Friend , Blessings .🙏

[@MolonLabe1976]

Glad to hear you were carrying...there's a lot of evil in this world and some people wake up every morning with the sole purpose to make the world a worse place. Keep up the great videos! Lock and load!

[@uuuultra]

Thank you for your service

[@everythingreviewed1549]

Love the 4Runner! It is not a car for everyone, but I love mine, that thing is a tank.

[@istvan5674]

Even as an off-duty, now retired cop I've encountered this lawlessness in remote areas several times in different states. Sometimes it's a group who claim that area for their private use, albeit hunting, off roading, or partying. They can be dangerous and may try to intimidate you to abandon the area. Other times, they are casing your camp site and vehicle. If they stop, light you up and there is no movement, they will look to grab what they can steal and go. As recently as this past March I ran across both behaviors while on BLM desert land here in SW Idaho. I had a couple of meth heads with an ATV that I witnessed burglarizing a stolen/abandoned RV. They tried to intimidate me by firing shots towards my camp. They took off when I pulled out my AR-15. The next morning a buddy and I left camp to go hunting coyotes with said AR-15. We were within eyesight of camp when a pick-up truck with a father and elementary school age son pulled up to our campsite. They got out and headed into my camp. I fired one shot, in a safe direction, to let them know we were near by. They hopped back into the truck and took off back the way they came.

[@IrisMcnab]

WOW! Making Cowboy Coffee! Awesome channel, love watching you! I am an old Camp Cook from days gone by, and boiling the coffee, was the Cowboys favourite part! I love the peaceful feeling all the outdoors brings! Keep bringing us more of this stuff...love it! ❤

[@BarakTheWonderer]

Hey, I'm glad that you are alright. I don't know your personal story, but I know that you are well-experienced being outdoors. Glad to hear that you were prepared with something to protect yourself if needed. You're right that things don't happen often, but as you noted you are far from assistance with no real law enforcement in these areas. As a veteran, I can remember in briefings and preparation for patrols, etc. "you may not encounter anything in 100 days of (whatever it is that you are doing), but there will be day 101 - and you always need to be prepared for *that* day." So it's good to think these things out ahead of time (for anyone reading this). Of concern to me was that you were on a one-lane dirt road, forested on both sides, with one way back and a big question mark beyond those fence posts. Easy to be trapped in. You were a bit too vulnerable for my liking. Never a bad idea to be a little more safety or security-conscious. And while this would not have made a difference in this situation, I recommend traveling with a dog if possible. Their ability to hear, smell, and see at night is far better than ours and can give you an advantage in a dodgy situation. Anyway, continued success and stay safe out there!

[@6spacin9]

My trick for avoiding randoms has been to really look for the out of the way places. The super tight 2 tracks that look like no one has been down them in 20 years with nice camp spots. Gotta be willing to scratch up your rig massively though to get to them but it keeps you totally unnoticed from the road (I have not even washed my rig in 2 years so you can see how I care about its looks so that helps). Some of my favorite camp spots I've left money in the fire pit as an experiment then just check on it from time to time putting the money back when I leave, the money is almost always still there even after a year of checking on it so I know no one probably even knows the spots exist and I like it that way.

[@irenejoseph9547]

I have missed the early days of instant mashed potatoes as a staple of your camping meals. When you remarked that it was time for dinner, I thought to myself “I wish Luke would break out the Idahoans” and out came the cup of instant mashed potatoes. Yes!!!! Always be ready to protect yourself, day or night. Glad you are safe. See you in the next adventure.

[@gregyohngy]

If you have a cup of instant potatoes and not use the container, just get a reusable container and buy a regular box of instant potatoes. Saves money!

[@ZebraActual]

When truck camping anywhere other than a typical campground i carry a large caliber handgun.. when motorcycle camping i carry a smaller caliber one. Those late night visitors of yours was one thing, but then them returning 2 hours later was sincerely troubling... i also tend to stealth camp, using a mixture of camouflaged tarps and natural flora for both my truck and motorcycle when dispersed camping.

[@westcan81]

I'll bet there's a trail cam in one of those trees. That's how those backwoods hillbillies knew you were there. I think you avoided a "Deliverance" situation or a "Wrong Turn" situation.

[@Ottonic6]

Pretty impressed with your one man show. When I first started watching your content I thought you had a camera person,.. Story time... A while back a couple friends and I were camping in a remote area in the Oregon Cascades and it was later, dark out, and we were just sitting and chatting then out of nowhere we see this guy standing about 40 ft. away watching us, he had a long beard, wearing a long shabby overcoat just like in stories. We just kind of looked at each other like, "what's up with this guy" then looked back at him and he had moved to about 20 ft away still speechless and just eerie, I said "can we help you?" No verbal response, he still just stared. Mark had his 375 magnum rifle next to him and he picked it up and cocked it. The guy never said one word, he just calmly turned and walked back into the woods. It was really weird. We had heard there were old vets and such that lived in those areas but never thought anything of it. Don't know, maybe he was just hungry, maybe he was trying to spook us. Don't know. If he would have at least responded or something we would have gladly given him something to eat or drink. We'll never know. Anytime I go camping or hiking I always carry. Just a little piece of mind.

[@anniemoore9852]

Trails is a great name for what you do. I enjoy watching you.

[@cinemaveritae]

Beautiful 4Runner ... if I had one and adopt your "minimalist" camping philosophy, I would still add a retractable rollout awning to expand the area around it that's protected from the elements.

[@roseshafer258]

Luke I am glad you were ok, could have been bad. Thanks, Luke, for another adventure.

[@Eye_4_An_Eye]

would have been for the others. luke is smart enough to always have his pew pew!

[@miyagimojo]

Great poise. The calmness you related your “adventure” in the night and the fact that you still went back to sleep and slept well… suggests to me that if those clowns had tried any business with you, THEY would’ve had a terrible night!

[@ryanglobe416]

One of my favorite things about this channel is that I can watch any episode with my wife and 3 y/o son and know it’s always going to be family friendly; not to mention it’s always a good time. 🙂

[@liznyp6209]

I bet that was their spot for late night activities. They probably figured you’d clear out after the first drive by. When they came back and you were still there they probably weren’t happy. Glad nothing else came of it but it could have gone very wrong.

[@TimP-ju2st]

Glad you are safe Luke I think I know you could handle yourself in any situation.

[@erizzle67]

Your KZbinr friend is a genius. It’s called fabricating or encouraging engagement. They will say a word a little wrong, etc. A great example is that woman a couple years ago who made a video and mentioned Star Wars and called the bad guy “Dark Vader”. Comments were just rolling in. Engagement.

[@joanies6778]

Pretty darn funny how people get so bent out of shape on the silliest thing. The grammar police are hysterical.

[@queensalnd]

'Setting up all that garbage'🤣🤣 cracked me up when you said that.

[@picadilly3184]

You could not have chosen a better name than Trails. 😊

[@jeffmorris739]

I have a 2021 Tacoma and it is such a great truck. It has never let me down and I have been to some remote area's. It's basically the same truck with a different body. We are blessed to have them. Not a fan of the 2024 due to the engine size. Thanks for the video.

[@ms6071]

I watched a single nomad woman from California go venturing into the Georgia area. She was so panicked about the folk that live there. When she found a camping spot It was located in some really tall grass. The next day she met the neighbors down the road, an older couple and the man offered to mow her camp spot so she and her dog can walk around without being eaten alive by chiggers. They invited her for dinner and let her shower when she needed. She soon found out her fears were silly.

[@JustaGirlinCleveland]

I live in an area that was taken by eminent domain by the national park system, CVNP, when hiking on CVNP land I often see old posts and such that were left after homes and farms were razed. It's always a reminder of the town that once occupied the land.

[@danstennis1817]

You got the best 4runner! It looks great!

[@joette8510]

Stay safe and enjoy your adventures. See you in the next one. I like the way you always say, “Oh yeah” It’s become your catch phrase. 👍😊

[@nisemonoyarou]

So seeing 35:35 I thought, well, those are cursed digits, and also: "There is nothing left in my heart."

[@Appointed570]

Thanks for your time and help with this information