What To Wear Backpacking

Many folks bring WAY TOO MANY clothes with them on their backpacking journeys. Separate outfits (ie. Town clothes, Sleeping clothes, etc.) are totally unnecessary.
In this video, I talk about what I’ve learned about bringing the most efficient clothes with you to make your backpacking trip more successful.
Thanks for watching. Please leave a COMMENT and don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE and click the NOTIFICATION button to be alerted each time I upload a new video. Again...thanks for watching.
PCT Gear List:
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[@ifilmalways7122]

Nearly the same here except an extra set of darn tough socks in my pack.. Gloves attached to the outside of the back and always wear a hat. Thanks for the video!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks.

[@danielduesentriebjunior]

Really smart using socks as gloves! Have you ever tried merino wool T-shirts or underwear? Bacteria grow much slower in wool compared to artificial fibres - hence much less stench (I am a microbiologist). No longer stinking like a pig when arriving in a mountain hostel! You may really carry it at least twice as long before it requires washing. It also dries quickly, although not ultrafast like artificial fibres. It is also genuinely nice on the skin, entirely unlike what you might expect from wool. Only drawback: It is expensive.

[@TheHikingRev]

I’ll look into it Daniel. Thanks.

[@ironpig701]

I carry 3 pairs of socks. 2 are worn. 3rd is sacred socks. Only used while sleeping. This way they are always dry and clean. Plus they are a tad thicker to keep feet warmer. Great content.

[@TheHikingRev]

👍👍👍

[@danmolnar9751]

I very much appreciate your wisdom, advice and humor. It's both informative and entertaining.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Dan. That means the world to me.

[@TravelinBoneSC]

New follower and recently retired senior citizen in SC. Full time nomadic traveling and headed west soon. Glad I found your channel. Very informative and I can relate to your season of life aspect. God bless, stay safe! See ya on the trail!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks David. I’m headed your way in April. Hiking the Pinhoti Trail (Alabama and Georgia).

[@TravelinBoneSC]

@@TheHikingRev Hope the weather cooperates with your hike. Be safe! Just planned a trip to Carson City late April through late May. Researching area trails now. Thanks for responding!

[@lauram8694]

How did you like the Pinhoti?

[@1OnlyOneOnlyOne1]

I just discovered your channel yesterday. There is something about listening to an older man when it comes to this type of thing. Especially if the said older man is experienced and has ''old school'' knowledge on the subject. Some of this stuff is may seem obvious to you but I learn a lot from each and every video. Thank you for this, sir.

[@TheHikingRev]

You are quite welcome. I certainly don’t know it all, but I have learned a few things from my 30 years of backpacking that I am willing to share with other aspiring backpackers.😁

[@1OnlyOneOnlyOne1]

Thank you. I am thinking of going around the world by myself and need all the survival tips I can get. I am in the process of slowly getting the supplies and learning the basics. Thinking of starting ''practice'' hikes soon while its cold and wet to get some practice. The point you made about muscle memory and general fitness etc is in my opinion most overlooked. People nowadays actually get a cramp from waking up and yawning, let alone walking for miles on end. Anyway, please make more videos. Thanks@@TheHikingRev

[@heyrobin]

Nice way to explain it! I’ve heard these terms but now I really understand what each layer does. The nurse in me wishes you had a hat that covered your ears and neck. There is a little bit of ventilation lost but the amount oh sun kept off your skin is worth it. LOVE injiji socks BTW and never worry about blisters.

[@TheHikingRev]

Hey Robin…Thanks for the sun exposure concern. I applied SPF 30 sun screen every morning on my PCT hike and during the day.

[@standingbear998]

It amazes me how people have been convinced the sun is going to kill them. I know you need to be aware but c'mon

[@Melissaharlowvo]

Agreed!

[@samewalt6486]

On a hot day when the sun is out I tuck a bandana under by ball cap, covers my ears and neck.

[@timothywheeler5397]

I’m 66 and section hiking the AT when I get the chance. I am really enjoying your videos and appreciate the info you are sharing…I love the gaiter part…Roll Tide!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Timothy. Good luck on your AT hike and…ROLL TIDE! 🐘

[@erickortiz9121]

Very good informative video. I like the way you broke it down to details. But I like the most is that you’re not trying to say what’s good or bad for better or worse. Just sharing what works for you and experiences along with it. Very valuable information. Thank you so much for sharing this video. God bless you.

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome Erick. Clothing is very subjective. I just gave what works for me.

[@divinaflamingarrow9556]

So appreciate your videos so far!!🐬

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you. I’m glad you enjoy them.

[@nancyward3190]

Great information to know. You keep it so real. Thank you

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Nancy. That’s the only way I know.

[@discoveringlockenest8420]

Very good suggestions and info for sure! Thank you for sharing! 🤙

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re quite welcome. I hope you enjoyed them.

[@mikesutcliffe1142]

More sage words. Thank you for taking the time to put this out there!

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome Mike. Hope you enjoyed it.

[@markfletcher8084]

Good, sensible information. Thanks.

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re quite welcome Mark.

[@kellydiver]

If you have a chance, I would love to see a video about food - what you typically carry, and what your daily menu looks like. Thanks!

[@TheHikingRev]

Kelly…today is your lucky day! I just finished a video on that very subject. Check it out… kzbin.info/www/bejne/eIC7pJqJqZ18i6M

[@BurroGirl]

You're amazing and very inspiring!! Thank you so much for sharing helpful information!

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome Cynthia.

[@KirkF]

Thanks Rev. I am very new still and this really helps.

[@TheHikingRev]

Good! I’m glad it helped.

[@rhondalashes1138]

Great video ! I definitely take too much 😬 sleep clothes , and mitts are my luxury!

[@TheHikingRev]

Rhonda...thank you! I hope it helped.

[@standingbear998]

cotton has it's place just never in a base layer. it is popular in siberia even in winter where the snow is dry. like all tools it is how you use it.

[@TheHikingRev]

That’s the truth! 😁❤️👍

[@wolfeadventures]

Great video Rev. Some really good information here.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Rick.

[@ajaynangalia334]

great content! thank you 😃

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome.

[@cajunjamis9001]

Good one!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Jamis.

[@miketroutman7365]

Informative. Thanks.

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re quite welcome Mike.😁

[@markswisher1152]

Thanks

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome Mark.

[@michaelmcphee2930]

Just subscribed today 7th June 22 and have binged watched quite a few. I dispensed with rain pants in favour of a rain kilt, which I wear over nylon swimming trunks with pockets and adjustable waist. This let's breeze in between legs and yes even with gaiters on my legs get wet. However legs dry easily with a nylon towel much faster than long trousers do. The kilt does minimise the amount of wind and rain hitting my legs and provides some scratch protection from brushing up against scrub. Getting into dry long trousers after a wet day is a treat.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks for the sub Michael. I saw a lot of hikers use rain kilts on the PCT.

[@PhilipHightower-yr9uc]

Good Info Rev. Keep going! God Bless, PEH

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you Phillip.😁

[@Superduper666]

I use gloves because I get blisters on my right hand from my hiking poles. Plus, they help w sunburn issues.

[@TheHikingRev]

Gloves will definitely help.

[@clydevanwinkle7382]

Nice Hike 🚶 on!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Clyde.

[@Spike636]

Love your video, great information thank you for sharing your experience and humor…..oh and as a nurse glad you discussed sun protection! Go Dawgs 🤣🤣🤣

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Mark. The Dawgs had a good year this year. (Except for the SEC Championship. But y’all won the one that counts.)

[@_JS96]

Suggestions I also recommend are: - Pouch-style underwear (things like SAXX, Separatec, etc. still no cotton) which aims to separate the "dangly bits" from thighs and away from skin contact body heat. I have _lower hanging fruit_, so it also really helps stop "swampiness" and chafing on my monster thighs. - Silverlight socks. Merino wool (with all the usual merino benefits) with anatomical Left and Rights, double layered heel and toe box for padding, slight compression on the arch, and silver threading woven into the fabric to help kill bacteria. I have really hot blood and my feet are extremely blister-prone (plus the really long single-day distances) even in Darn Tough merino, and switching to these socks really help cut that down. If it's a long day (usually), I'll pack an extra pair to swap out, and the wet ones get binder clipped to the molle straps on my pack.

[@TheHikingRev]

Great advice Jonah. Thanks for the tips.

[@toshadavinci5379]

I have a truckers cap but with a cloth around velcroed in to protect neck and ears for when you miss spots with suntan cream . Skin cancer is a killer

[@TheHikingRev]

When I came home from off trail I had to get some melanoma cut out of my skin. Not fun!

[@photoshacknz]

@@TheHikingRev I know how you feel. I had a spot cut out of my forehead -36 stitches .later.. I had seen a doctor about it previously and was told it was nothing to worry about.

[@clydevanwinkle7382]

Great 👍 info 😇

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Clyde. I hope it was helpful. 😃

[@20Hikecdt23]

Thanks for great vid. Only thing id say is my hands get dried out n also cut, abrasions, etc., n so i wear a pair of lightweight cloth or leather gloves for protection. I have to push skin cream also cuz of dried out skin. -White Mexican

[@TheHikingRev]

Great idea Dave.

[@ronaldhoppus9015]

Love your videos Rev.... I'm just binge watching your PCT videos (little late to the party) and now this one but have wondered from the beginning why you don't use a Sun Runner Cap, espescially being fair skinned. Protects the neck and ears nicely. Happy trails. BTW you are motivating me to (at least consider) doing a thru hike.... Would love to see a video on the preparation and cost associated with the PCT hike. Thanks again. GB

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks Ronald. You’re never too late. My head would get very hot with a non-ventilated hat. I do use sunscreen religiously. That’s a great idea for a video.

[@christopherhaak9824]

I wear a fishing top in almost all weather for hiking. Long sleeve, comes with a hood, true 1/4 zip and thumbholes. Blocks all the sun and only abo 8 oz. Plus they are only about $16. Many brands out there, but I get the habit brand from Sam's club.

[@TheHikingRev]

Christopher...I have a Habit brand Sun Hoody. I love it! Very comfortable, blocks the sun, checks all the boxes and best of all, it cost me under $20 (plus shipping). Got it from Amazon.

[@standingbear998]

are you lacking in vitamin D.

[@jacquelinearndt6615]

I love hiking.

[@cesarpenailillo6627]

New Subscriber. Great videos. Thank you for your channel!

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks for your sub. 😁

[@papajeff5486]

I have the same setup for my AT clothes.

[@TheHikingRev]

Great minds think alike.😂

[@stuartsteele9984]

Well said about cotton. Surprisingly, many outfitters sell flannel which is cotton during winter - absurd. Complaining to them resulted in no response. Polypropylene or mohair is my preferred base layer. Polypropylene due to it being hydrophobic, very lightweight, warmth sensibility and low cost lasts for years unlike the majority of other materials. Polyester fleece is a poor insulator and absorbs water - not good for potential hypothermia. An Alpaca or Mohair sweater is normally my second layer in cool/cold weather when in wet weather with my DIY heat reflective DWR coated anorak as my third layer. I also made a DWR coated over pants, the combination of the two weigh a mere 6.15 ounces. Otherwise I reverse the second and third layer items described for dry weather. The system worked exceptionally well in 35 deg. F weather. Should the described system be insufficient below 35 deg. F weather I would add my fourth layer - down or synthetic hooded jacket - weather dependent. I carry a spare hooded polypropylene shirt and spare wool socks. I also made a 0.33 ounce heat reflective beany with lanyard so it doesn't fly away and a pair of heat reflective leg gaiters weighing a mere 1.1 ounce. A polypropylene or mohair balaclava or beany and alpaca inner and outer gloves plus my DIY heat reflective DWR coated mittens essentially finishes my clothing other than underwear and wool socks.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks for the info, Stuart.

[@Karen-dq8nw]

All of that may work in the lower 48, but it sure wouldn't work here in Alaska. Days of soaking wet, close to freezing downpours, fog, hail, flurries, and wind. And nowhere to quickly get off trail.

[@TheHikingRev]

I agree 100%. I would definitely bring more and warmer clothes if I backpacked in your part of the country.

[@ParallelCamper]

Thanks. More good, unpretensious, basic info.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thanks! That’s me in a nutshell...unpretentious.

[@MarmaladeOutdoors]

Roll tide? That’s a laundry detergent right? Lol hey I brought an extra jacket on my thru hike but after watching your video maybe I shouldn’t of. It was a suit jacket in case of a spontaneous formal event! Lol just kidding great video my friend !

[@TheHikingRev]

Hey...definitely bring it! In case we go to a fancy restaurant on Trail we can impress the ladies! Roll Tide...a detergent that cleans up all the garbage and dirt from the NCAA! Thanks, man! I can’t wait to hike with you again.

[@MarmaladeOutdoors]

@@TheHikingRev dang you’re making me a ride fan and I’m a Cali boy lol... yep can’t wait too, hopefully next week baby!

[@aikirunner]

We’ll done.

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you very much.

[@kiltedoverland4551]

Roll Tide for sure!

[@TheHikingRev]

RTR! 🐘

[@jeffreyevans6892]

Very well done. Do you take anything along with you for protection? I like your philosophy on minimal amount of gear. I always take too much crap were ever I go. I was in the guard for 20yrs. We were taught, better to have it and not need it, then need it and not have it.

[@TheHikingRev]

I don’t know if I would want to carry a non-needed piece of gear 2,653.1 miles. What kind of protection are you talking about?

[@jeffreyevans6892]

Handgun, bear spray.. More concern about two legged critters then four ?

[@billmazzocco5275]

Thanks again, I just finished a 80 mile +, 18th centrury trek wearing period clothing, breeches, leather leggings, cotton hunting shirts, etc. My boots were modern. I did the Great Allegheny Passage trail in Maryland to Pennsylvania, following or parrellellimg general Ed Braddock's March on Ft Duquesne ( Pittsburgh) in the Fremch amd Imdian war. Nothing to compare with your milagebut it was good enough for me. I followed alot of your advice, starting early morning, 2 hours stops, cold soaking etc. Worked great! Hiw heavy is your pack when you hike? Thanks again

[@TheHikingRev]

20 lbs. 1 liter of water and 5 days (10 lbs) of “simulated” food.

[@billmazzocco5275]

Wow, you are running lite. Water is always the biggest issue. I was carrying 2 liters, used it all too. Trail food is " sort of food" , I eat alot of spam.singles and oatmeal. Hiw often.do you resupp? I presume you use a filtration system

[@TheHikingRev]

@@billmazzocco5275 I try not go longer than 5 days between resupplies. As far as water, I “camel up” at a water source so I don’t have to carry as much water. I’d rather carry it in my stomach than on my back.

[@georgemoran8892]

Question; how many sets of hiking clothes do you carry? I mean, how many pairs of shorts, hiking T-shirts, or shirts? I sweat a lot, and can’t imagine wearing the same stuff for more that two days. You’d be able to smell me coming for miles. Thanks, love your videos.

[@TheHikingRev]

Hey George. You’re welcome. I carry one hiking shirt, a pair of running shorts with a liner and two pairs of socks that I alternate. When I get to a trail town, I wear my rain jacket and pants while I wash everything. George…you’re going to stink! But so is everybody else.

[@ajaynangalia334]

in this video, what bagpack are you using? size of the pack? You are my inspiration for trekking/hiking.. Thank you 🙏🏽

[@TheHikingRev]

You’re welcome Ajay. It was the Zpacks Arc Blast. I’m using a Hyperlite Unbound 40 now. 😁👍❤️

[@maryistulsafox]

Sock trick... I did that as a kid.

[@maryistulsafox]

Have you used bread sacks in your shoes?

[@TheHikingRev]

Works for me too!

[@TheHikingRev]

No. But I know folks that have.

[@joyceleppers]

Hi Rev thanks again for an informative and entertaining video! One question. I thought a benefit of hiking shoes is their waterproofness (is that a word…? 😬). What do you do when it starts raining (a lot) to prevent your socks from getting wet?

[@TheHikingRev]

Your feet are going to get wet whether you wear waterproofness 😂 shoes or non-waterproofness shoes. The advantage to non waterproof shoes is they dry out quicker. Waterproof shoes retain moisture.

[@joyceleppers]

@@TheHikingRev sorry Rev I’m Dutch 🙈 Thanks for your rapid response! I’ll give the trail runners a try! 👍

[@TheHikingRev]

@@joyceleppers Hey Joyce. I’m from the Southern part of the United States and we say “waterproofness” as well as “y’all” and “ain’t.”

[@joyceleppers]

@@TheHikingRev just like Dr Phil 😄👍

[@Call_Me_Dragon]

👍🏼👍🏼

[@TheHikingRev]

Thank you Brush Dragon.

[@seansolorc]

ROLL TIDE! HAHA! Very nice!! Go Alabama!!

[@TheHikingRev]

Roll Tide Roll. 🐘

[@bbttresidder7224]

Hi Rev, can you give the brand of shoes that you happen to like? Thanks.

[@TheHikingRev]

I have worn Altra Lone Peak trail runners for years. Love them. 👍❤️😁

[@scottgrafelman2390]

How often did you change shorts/underwear, shirts and socks?

[@TheHikingRev]

Scott I carried two pairs of socks which I rotated every day. I carried one hiking shirt and one pair of running shorts with underwear liner. I would wash everything when I got into a Trail town. On a Thruhike you’ve got to “embrace the stink.” 😂

[@lindadirker5166]

How many sets of clothes do you take?

[@TheHikingRev]

Just one…the set that I hike in. Columbia Silver Ridge Lite long-sleeve hiking shirt and Adidas Run-It shorts with built-in liner. Two pairs of socks that I alternate daily. When I’m in a Trail town, I wear my rain jacket and pants while I’m washing and drying my clothes.

[@katiemclean9089]

As a trail walker from Canada , I have found that Silk underware both provides warmth , light wait , and wicks most of the body moisture away. I would not travel without it . Question? When you are on a trail as the US West Coast Trail , how do you keep in contact with Family in event of emergency , Needing Help ? C A McLean

[@TheHikingRev]

I have always used a Garmin InReach Mini device when I don’t have cell service on the Trail. You purchase the device (which ain’t cheap 😳) then get a monthly subscription plan through Garmin. Price for plans vary. I just got the least expensive one. You can send stock statements to family (ie. “Stopped for the night. See ya in the morning.”) and you can send a “ping” from your device to let them know and see where you are on a map. According to your plan, you can text a certain amount of times a month even when there’s no cell service. It sends the message to an Iridium Satellite to your family. When I did the PCT in 2020, I sent “stock” text messages every morning and at night. My wife could look on a digital map and track my progress. I only texted her a few times when there was no cell service. There is also an SOS button that you can push in case of emergency.

[@viper071]

Gloves aren’t just for keeping your hands worn, they protect your hands, like foot ware does your feet.

[@TheHikingRev]

I agree.

[@areafifty]

Sunscreen makes a huge difference

[@TheHikingRev]

That’s the truth. When doing a long-distance hike, I apply sunscreen every day. 😁

[@YaGottaBeKidding]

Let me fix that for you, Rev: GO GATORS! You're welcome.

[@TheHikingRev]

Sorry, YaGottaBeKidding. I didn’t even get close to Florida. 😂

[@josephmayes8302]

Roll Tide!🤣🤣🤣

[@TheHikingRev]

🐘🐘🐘

[@maryistulsafox]

Sun screen my ears

[@TheHikingRev]

Great idea!