What you NEED vs What You WANT to take Backpacking

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Gear from this video: Needed Gear: Rain Cover: geni.us/tCHMj Sleeping Bag: geni.us/VDFEV Sleeping Pad (newer version): geni.us/PzoR Bear Bag: geni.us/HU01w Bear Bag Cord: geni.us/GzJSIK Bear Canister: geni.us/mTL5uW9 Trowel: geni.us/evIJfd Gear You Might Want: Socks: geni.us/NE3CB Sandals: geni.us/2tDifI6 Quilt: geni.us/B6SrGL5 Chair: geni.us/LR2hUH Pillow: geni.us/JGBYwtT ZOLEO: geni.us/AOpo

[@paulchen1272]

can u pin this?

[@sunnyscott4876]

I always learned that if there was one thing that you wanted to have, no matter how unnecessary, if if made you happy and you HAD to have it......TAKE IT. If you're not going to be happy or comfortable if you leave your teddy bear at home because it's your security, you're going to be miserable the whole time. Everybody has one comfort item. TAKE IT.

[@dewae3254]

Agreed it seems childish or silly but in the end there is nothing you really get from hiking or camping there is no prize or goal you dont get paid its fun. Its ok for it to not be fun the whole time but if it stops being fun at all its not worth it anymore and if you can change that with an item it either belongs in the pack or the pack ends up shoved in a closet covered in dust

[@Jjeong_ji]

There's a Korean minimalist guy who did it only with his jacket on (w/ a lot of pockets) and he still took his finger teddy haha so 100%

[@datdankdj8264]

My comfort item is my ocarina. I’m a huge fan of music and while normally I’d bring a guitar places, that’s not the best idea when you’re hiking with 50 IBS of stuff on your back give or take. It’s light, convenient, and sounds beautiful. Also there tends to be animals (usually dogs) that show up when I play it, so that way I have an extra friend to talk to

[@truneilson]

As a white water raft guide I recomend getting not just a trash bag but a trash compactor trash bag to line your pack and protect your sleeping bag. They are MUCH thicker and better at keeping water in or out. I get mine at Costco, its not expensive and you get a ton of them.

[@zeropoint546]

I learned in scouts to keep all my stuff in many plastic bags within my pack. This keeps all my stuff dry, but also turns my pack into a flotation device which is pretty much unsinkable. I'd like to say I've never needed it, but I've sank my kayak a couple of times now, and having a pack to grab on to helped a lot, and also kept my kayak on the surface as it was lashed to the boat.

[@urgamecshk]

Don't you mean Contractor?

[@truneilson]

@@urgamecshk No, Compactor. They are much thicker and water impermeable.

[@adamlane6453]

​@@urgamecshk It's a machine in some homes and businesses that compacts the trash to minimize the volume of trash. Like if you live out in the country and have limited trash pickup service. And these machines use special extra thick trash bags.

[@JrodsJourneys]

Yea I think you definitely mean contractors bags, they are 3m

[@ShortGuysBetaWorks]

One of my "luxury" items (like your chair) is three pairs of socks. 🧦🧦🧦 1) I've had socks not properly dry overnight, and in the mountains, that can mean frostbite; 2) I'm using each sock 33% less (if things go ideally), and if things aren't ideal (too hot, too cold, whatever), I can throw on a fresh pair without imploding the next day's need for fresh socks. Started doing this when I was training for Denali, and 10yrs later, I haven't gone back.

[@higler.]

Dry socks are the most powerful mental boost for me. It's like the second I put on that dry pair my mind and body just says "alright we're ready for another 20 miles!". Also, just knowing I have extra dry pairs eases my mind if/when my feet get soaked and allows me to just continue on and not care because I know those dry socks are right in my pack.

[@ShortGuysBetaWorks]

@@higler. I'm with you. Even on single-day summit hikes or climbs, I will often bring another pair of socks just to put on once I'm at the top. There is something almost blissful about a clean pair of dry socks devoid of sweat or grime. (Plus, turns out feet are pretty important when walking or running many miles 🤷‍♂).

[@hdanna823]

Love lots of socks!

[@negativespace7243]

Band of brothers quote: "Feet, hands, neck, balls... extra socks warms em all!"

[@MichaelsPwner]

Is that the pair you are wearing plus two pairs or the pair your wearing plus three extra?

[@wouterberend]

Another reason to take both a pack liner and a rain cover is because most pack fabrics absorb water. This water weight is equal if not more weight than a rain cover, and some times it can take a long time to dry out your pack completely.

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Very true!

[@briandriscoll1480]

Plastic. Never leaks, doesn't absorb water, dries fast.

[@tfrtrouble]

Rain protection: drybags all the way! Not one huge one as a pack liner; different ones for sleeping bag, clothing, food/cooking stuff, toiletries and bits and pieces, things you may need while walking (waterproofs, hats, gloves, sunglasses, snacks, compass). This totally changed my experience of camping. They do add a little weight but the extra organization makes camping (especially setting/packing up camp) so much more pleasant. And they help compress clothing. And if you forget to take something out and have to dig it out of the bottom of your bag, it's a simple matter of removing the right bag, and then putting the bags back, not playing Tetris with every item you have with you.

[@llamacannon1714]

This is key. In the schizophrenic Swedish mountains where i usually hike it can go from complete blue skies, to rainstorm, to snowstorm all in under an hour (even in the middle of summer). I even go as far as to have everything packed in drybags (except sleeping bag and sleepind pad), then a trashbag as inner liner as well as a raincover on my backpack. When you are 5 days from the nearest road you stop caring about half a kilogram of weight and instead focus on always making it back in one piece.

[@briandoolittle3422]

@@llamacannon1714 " from complete blue skies, to rainstorm, to snowstorm all in under an hour (even in the middle of summer)." That's definitely not unique to Sweden. I'm from Washington State in the Northwest corner of the U.S, and the Cascade Mountains do that to. Ive started hiking in blue skies and warm temps, walked in to a wind and snow storm bad enough that I received minor cornea frostbite on my descent, and then ended my hike back in blue skies again. This was late june.

[@notactuallytesco]

I tend to go overkill with mine, individually drybag all my stuff and then use a biggun as a liner. Better safe than sorry

[@lbjay8914]

I do this too! Pro tip, get a bag that has access to the main pouch via the bottom and put your clothes bag at the bottom. Easy access, lightest stuff at the bottom to help weight distribution, and in general the bottom zips handy to only ever half to unpack half your bag to get to something.

[@lbjay8914]

​@@notactuallytescoI go overboard too but if you ever get lost you have metaphorical fuses

[@ferryvantichelen6521]

Trowel is also very helpful to dig a small gulley around your tent to prevent flooding on a very rainy day. Just try to keep it a small as possible and return everything back to what it was to leave no trace.

[@HostileTakeover2]

The luxury item that few people know/think/talk about that always always carry is a "pocket bellows". Basically an expandable straw you can use to send a jet of air into the fire instead of sticking your face down there and blowing, or trying a fan. Gets the air where you need it way better than any other method I've tried and weighs very little.

[@preparedforoutdoors]

Second this! I tried one of these on a lark and I'm now a #TrueBeliever. Got them as stocking stuffers for my kids and nephews last Christmas too.

[@petemellows]

Ah, the luxury of having a fire! Where I'm from (Tasmania) fires are very restricted. Most areas are fuel stove only.

[@SophisticatedDogCat]

Most hikers/thru-hikers/backpackers won’t make fire. Too much work after crushing 20+ miles in a given day. Just use a stove.

[@burmy1552]

Sounds like a good tool to dry your booty after bidet too!

[@shoechew]

I just carry my leaf blower and some used motor oil.

[@tomsitzman3952]

You don't need to buy a down blanket. Years ago, I converted one of my 3 pound down sleeping bags for one into a two person down blanket by removing the zipper and continuing the zipper line across the bottom of the bad and of course sewing the bottom seam. When I lay it out it covers the top of my queen size bead. This past year I discovered Alpaca socks. They have about a 15 F degree thermal range. Cool in summer warm in winter. they are antimicrobial and never ever smell. You can wear them for 10 days with no problem. Fast drying,. I buy mine from a local alpaca farmer. I have knee high, calf high and ankle high.

[@hiligatioify]

I had some alpaca socks and they gave me blisters. I don’t why but they were the most uncomfortable sock I have ever worn. Just tells you everyone’s experience varies and it is always worth trying your gear before going out to the back country

[@odysseyusa]

I just bought some to try out. It’s a company that, unusually, gave every percentage of content and is US made. I later found locals that raise the alpaca and also sell socks.

[@etatsopa]

I watch your channel as a motorcyclist. I don’t really care much about weight savings but it’s good to see what you can get in a very compact form factor - perhaps a good idea for a future video? Where backpacking and adventure motorcycling cross over

[@tims728]

Same here, thats a great idea.

[@TheIdlesurfer]

Same. Hiking gear is great on dirt bikes. My load max is 20kg or 44lbs. My panniers are heavier than a backpack and I carry tools and oil.

[@profmactheknife]

Always slip off a Bergen strap and un-clip the hip belt when crossing water. It sounds counter intuitive, but if you slip, you can ditch the Bergen and recover instead of being held down in the water by the weight.

[@damonwebb813]

When I used to white water canoe, I used to do the double garbage bag inside my bag(bag gets wet) Also do a double bag inside my sleeping bag bag. Whether clothes(important to separate clothes in two separate garbage bags- just in case ) Roll the inner garbage bag from the center opening of the bag, squeezing out air,you have two twisted ends which allow the air to be squeezed out ( eliminates puncturing) than you tie the ears together , even if canoe and bag is submerged it stays dry , than do the outer bag... double insurance Never had wet clothes or sleeping bag, or accessories

[@erichobbs4042]

I have a drybag that I stuff my quilt and extra clothes in. Been in all day torrential rains here in Queensland and out in the Pacific Northwest, and I have never had a problem with those things getting wet. It's a lot lighter than a pack cover and less of a faff than a liner. My luxury item is the free time to go on a backpacking trip in the first place 🙂

[@loriwerle4895]

Yes, time is definitely a luxury most of us do not have...😔

[@ssu7653]

@@loriwerle4895 Free time is just a priority. Your not THAT busy working 24/7, you can find time every (few) months for a 1-2day trip if that is something you want...

[@zeropoint546]

I store everything in my pack in multiple plastic bags. Food (gets daily bags), clothes, sleep system, shelter, cook system, first aid, electronics, all get separate bags. This makes things easier to find, but also turns your pack into a flotation device. Handy if kayaking or doing anything stupid with a river (which I do from time to time).

[@justanewjew]

I bought an ultralight dry bag for when I travel and swimming is involved... It takes up virtually zero space and if I need to fly home with a wet swim suit (like I did recently!), it keeps ALL my luggage dry and unbothered. Truly an under rated technique

[@darinpeterson9673]

My diy camp shoe hack is to take an old pair of socks and then spray them with that gutter flex spray. It covers the bottom, is still movable, light weight, and protects your feet around camp.

[@tims728]

That's a cool idea, i saw another comment about Skinners and was going to look them up, then boom, you have this great share. I'll definitely look into this idea. 👍🇦🇺🤠

[@kikikirk]

As an ex Ten Tors and Duke of Edinburgh instructor in the UK. (using my wifes YT account) I would just like to point out that because the training was done on/in a national park we gave the students instructions to poop in a bag and drop it in a dog poop bin. No need for a trowel. With outdoor activities having increased, biking, canoeing, hiking, paragliding etc this means a greater impact on the environments various eco-systems. Remember; Take only memories and leave only footprints.

[@eddydewilde4958]

Can you poo in a bag, please explain as this idea is finding currency yet I can't picture it thanks.

[@kikikirk]

@@eddydewilde4958 I do not believe YT would allow a demonstration Lol. However, I shall endeavor to explain... When you squat down, it should be noted that it is a kind of "side-squat", that is to say you twist slightly to one side, (To the left or the right is personal preference). With your PLASTIC bag already in hand, you have one hand in front of you between your legs holding the opening of the bag directly under the anus and the other hand behind yourself also holding the opening to facilitate your waste dropping cleanly to the bottom of the bag, (this is important for hygiene reasons to be explained next). Once you have emptied your bowels wipe yourself as normal and deposit the waste paper or wet wipes into the bag also. It is advisable to twist the bag several times above the waste material and then bring the neck of the bag over the bulge in order to create a second layer of protection, so that it is effectively 'double bagged'. You can then place this in a shopping bag (along with any other deposits) tied to your rucksack, bike, canoe etc until you are clear of the national park or come across a dog walkers poo bin. I hope this explaination is sufficient in enhancing your imagery 🤠💩 and Sincererly Thank You for asking.

[@eddydewilde4958]

@@kikikirk Thanks for this explanation. For some people squatting is an issue, let alone balancing while squatting and juggling a plastic bag on uneven ground. I find this Yoga shitting and the subsequent playing with poo and lugging it around repulsive. Has this poo carry out been implemented in UK national parks? I can only hope this practice never reaches my Australia although I'm sure there are parks and wildlife managers looking at what others are doing. Best wishes

[@kikikirk]

@@eddydewilde4958 I honestly never thought of squatting being an issue until I read your comment and my wife pointed out that she had had trouble envisaging such an action as she has difficulty to squat. Ten Tors and The Duke of Edinburgh scheme deals with youngsters from 14yrs old so, mobility isn't an issue as they have to be able to walk 35km 45km or 55km in two days in a team depending on age. This practise does seem repulsive at first but definitly not more so than stepping in someone else's shit !!! also, it's no different than picking up after your dog. I don't know if this practise has been implemented in the UK - it's not like it can be polised - but the instructors I worked with made sure that 'duty of care' for the environment included their biological waste afterall, these courses are not just about walking/hiking, they are about team building, safety, responsibility, first aid, navigation and taking notice of the environment etc. Once again Thank You for raising a valid point and it was a pleasure to help.🤠

[@LiseWrigley]

I feel sorry for the garbage collectors. The bins would fill up quickly.

[@paulreineck8589]

I totally second on the extra socks! It's such a good feeling to put on a fresh clean pair of socks after a long day of hiking or climbing.

[@wohlhabendermanager]

4:40 Another advantage of two pairs of socks: You can easily switch them when they get wet. My wife and I were hiking in Norway on a (very difficult) two day hike, and ended up in a very swampy area on day one. Her shoes got soaked (mine stayed dry, luckily), and after the first day her toes looked like she had been in a bathtub for 4 hours. So, on the second day (the shoes were still wet) she would just switch her socks every other hour. At the end of day 2 her toes looked completely normal. Sandals: A 100% yes. On the mentioned hike I took my sandals with me on a whim, and it was so comfortable to not have to put on my hiking boots in camp. My wife didn't bring any sandals, but reverted to use mine very quickly, haha. I since upgraded to lighter sandals, now both sandals wear as much as one of my old sandals. Plus, they easily fit inside my backpack, and I don't have to attach them on the outside. :)

[@Lew114]

I haven't backpacked since the advent of quilts. I would definitely try one if I were buying new gear now. I always thought it was pointless to have half of my insulation pressed flat against my sleeping pad by my body weight. Glad someone smarter than me did something about that problem.

[@10xZ00M]

I made similar 'socdles' by cutting foot shapes from closed-cell foam, gluing them to grippy rubber soles; then attaching sock to each using double sided tape. The socks can then be detached as spare pair.

[@maureencallahan7504]

Another reason for using internal dry sacks for everything is just in case of a water bladder leak. I use a water bladder and one day, just before leaving home for a hike, the connection of the tube into the bladder failed and everything in that pack got wet. Luckily I was at home, quickly loaded another pack sans the water bladder, and was able to meet up with my friends. But if that had happened while on the trail, I would have lost the majority of my water (I usually have at least one water bottle with me) and would have had water dripping on me until getting back to the car.

[@WanderingSwitchback]

Don't forget a first aid kit!! Even just some bandaids and antibiotic ointment for those cuts and scrapes are better than nothing!

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

For sure: I did forget but I included it in my packing list in the description

[@ryanlink-cole6718]

I know the quilts are the current rage but as an old school bag guy you can EASILY just unzip your bag and bang, it's a quilt. Back when I was young, poor, and stronger I only had ine bag for year round and the zero degree bag on a warm summer night but could still be that draft free mummy on those trips in the snow that a quilt can never be if you are an active sleeper.

[@michaelmcphee2930]

I'm 73, and to save time and effort, I use stretch elastic shoe laces because they're quicker and easier to put on, and they also have some "give" in them. I also have a small shoe horn, which goes into my poo pack to use as a trowel. I have just purchased a water bottle attachment bidet, so I can eliminate TP. My bag has an inbuilt pack liner. For ease of mind I pack my entire sleep system, bivvy sack, matress, quilt, and camp attire in a dry sack, which is the first thing I pull out of my back pack when I make camp and the first thing that goes into my back pack when I break camp. It saves time. I like to be hiking 30 minutes after I wake up.

[@MillerSean]

Not sure I've seen you mention sleeping bag liners in a video. In warm weather, they act like a sheet if your bag is too warm. In cold weather, they add just a bit more warmth. They also help keep sleeping bags a little cleaner.

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Very true. I’m not opposed I just don’t use them.

[@stevevanderhorst5234]

I always line my pack with a plastic garbage bag, and cover my pack with a rain cover like that. For my own saftey I use a Garmin GPSMap 66i because my wife insisted. Even though, I've been an outdoorsman all my life. Oh well, it makes her happy, and It work well. Really enjoy you videos. Thank you.

[@truthntrails]

I also use a pack liner and a rain cover. Once I tried leaving the rain cover behind and the bag just got so wet and muddy on the outside it was heavier than had I just brought the rain cover from the start

[@RebelRhiannon]

Does you wife go with you?

[@stevevanderhorst5234]

@@RebelRhiannon Yes, she does sometimes.

[@MaxIsRetired]

How long have you been married? Haven't you learned, Happy wife, happy life.

[@nedanother9382]

2nd 1st. Wohoo - I think its interesting how people deal with rain and packs. I believe in that if all of your gear gets wet (even if the sleeping bag is dry) - and the sun aint gonna come out, that thats a "trip ender". As such - with a 42 liter pack and a bear canister I always use a compactor bag for everything but my tent (dyneema in a dyneema sack) in the bag including the bear can. Rain gear water filter etc that can get wet in the front pocket which is covered with a pack cover. I even cover my pack belt pockets with breadbags. They're awesome. Cause pockets get water in but none gets out. I'm a gram weenie EVERYWHERE ELSE.

[@PastramiStaven]

When birds do that follow them, run, everyone knows that, just panic. I've seen a lot of movies I would call myself a bit of an expert. All jokes aside, good video, thanks for the tips.

[@richardh8082]

😂

[@klavsvasilis]

depending on the weight and distance, extra socks might be a need.. because if your feet are out, then your trip comes to a halt.

[@daven.7685]

I know ponchos don’t make it with the fashion set, but for ultimate rain protection they do the best job. Sure, wind is a drawback, but they can be tied around you. They don’t wet out, they have superior ventilation, keep the entire pack dry, and they won’t cost you a kidney, like some of the rain jackets offering “breathable” fabrics and pit zips. If you’re worried about your forearms getting wet, then the Snugpak Patrol Pancho has sleeves… As for the Zoleo, I’m curios to know how you communicate with S&R personnel after you press the SOS button if your phone has gone dead. They’re just not going to fly the chopper until they know your status and if you are able to get to a rescue point. In a scenario where your phone is dead, can you communicate that information using the Zoleo?

[@JinKee]

Stephen "Otter" Olshansky died due to a dead phone battery

[@daven.7685]

@@JinKee No, he died because he got on the trail stoned. Bad initial choices lead to bad outcomes, especially in the backcountry.

[@MichaelsPwner]

@@daven.7685 he died because he wasn’t prepared. Being stoned had nothing to do with it. If he had brought a Zoleo or any other comparable product he would have survived. He could have brought a signaling mirror and he would have survived. He was unprepared for the situation he got himself in. He was dying and looking for something to blame, that’s why he blamed getting stoned. Being stoned does not prevent a person from making logical decisions like alcohol.

[@nathancragg6202]

Ponchos don’t wet out? You’ve never been issued one by a government organization 🤣

[@daven.7685]

@@MichaelsPwner You must have been tokin’ when you wrote that! 😭

[@northernswedenstories1028]

What you need is a floorless tipi style tent that allows you to take your morning poo in private before moving on. This is common practice in Scotland where there is often not so much trees to hide amongst.

[@unightie]

I use my vestibule sometimes. Same thing but main tent has a floor.

[@northernswedenstories1028]

@@unightie yeah I guess it depends on the size of the tent. I just find tipis generally offer more headroom and inners are easily removed or not used at all. I think I've so done it in a longer tunnel tent with a large vestibule also.

[@MichaelsPwner]

I will try to store this information somewhere in my mind for if I’m ever lucky enough to travel to Scotland. Otherwise I will be pooping with an audience lol.

[@northernswedenstories1028]

@@MichaelsPwner haha don't think about it too hard 😅 I had been doing this myself for over a decade and only recently relealised most other people in hiking Community in Scotland had also been doing the same since forever haha. I would only ever do this in the morning of course. Nobody wants to sleep with their crap..

[@lh3540]

I will use a pee bottle in the vestibule before using a gross outhouse.

[@peteyburgers]

One thing that I bring that I would classify as NEED are my binoculars :) when I think back on trips a lot of my memories are from what I've seen through my binocs!

[@marriedguydoingstuff247]

My Helinox chair is definitely a NEED. I’d leave home a days worth of food before I’d leave my chair.

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

The 11th essential!

[@radicalrobynette7138]

OMFG thank you so much for making me aware of sleeping quilts! I have sensory issues and hate the constrictive feeling of a sleeping bag. I thought I'd just have to suffer through using sleeping bags but these are perfect! I much prefer sleeping with a comforter/blanket.

[@LiseWrigley]

You can also just sleep with your sleeping bag open. Like a quilt.

[@KevinRStrauss]

Another great video! I love the outtakes. Please include more at the end of your videos! 🙏 We'll watch longer! 😀 As for my rain protection, I use a DCF seam taped backpack, a thick trash compactor bag liner, and a waterproof, Sea-to-Summit UL dry bag stuff sack for my down sleeping bag. So far, so good. 🤞

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

I’ll do my best

[@highdesertdrew1844]

+1 on the trowel. A lot of people in the comments had suggestions about plastic bags to use as liners, or waterproofing layers. Pack a trash bag. put your trash in it, put your sh*t tickets in it. Make sure to bury your bidness away from the water.

[@innawoodsman]

Honestly, freezing to death is why i go heavy on my sleeping bag. I've got this beefy milsurp mummy bag that's good down to -5 F, plus it's waterproof. Comfiest bag I've ever used. It weighs 4.5 lbs, but it's worth it to me to never be cold. I've had down bags get wet and gotten close to hypothermic as a result. I don't fault anyone for carrying one, I just like the extra security of mine.

[@tangenttrails]

Yes to the pack liner! I had an older Osprey pack wet out in a long heavy downpour from the rain running down my back through the back opening of pack cover. I’ve used a liner every since that fiasco. Good video, Steven!✌️

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

While I’ve never had that problem, I can see how it could be a problem. That’s why I keep my quilt in a sleeping bag, just about everything else can get wet and I’ll survive. Thanks for watching

[@isabelledrolet4297]

@Tangent Trails I had a similar experience once in a torrential downpour. The rain got caught/pooled at the bottom of the rain cover, drenching the bottom of my pack. My pack liner saved the day. I haven't used a rain cover since as I my pack was wet anyway and I ended up hauling about 2 cups of extra water...

[@craiglopp7018]

A little late I guess had the same problem i popped two grommets in the pack cover at the lowest spot for drainage

[@jelkel25]

I've used a cheap thin pair of those wading shoes as camp shoes but they are less than ideal. My luxury is a cup. It might be plastic and folding but it's a cup. Dislike drinking coffee in the morning out of the metal cup or Billy pot. I'm glad you said the things about the sleeping bag and keeping it dry.

[@davidryan4454]

When crossing any river running above ankle height, use a strong branch as a third leg to lean on.

[@thomas.thomas]

0:00 What you need: 1. Something to keep your stuff dry 2. Sleeping pad 3. Bear bag 4. Trowel and toilet paper 4:01 What you want: 5. Stove 6. Filter 7. Extra socks 8. Sandals 9. Chair 10. Quilt 11. Pillow 12. Satellite communicator

[@zloki83]

I would put some kind of first aid kit in must have. If a cut or scrape gets infected that could really ruin a trip.

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

I fully intended to mention First Aid and didn’t realize I left it out till this comment. Thank you for pointing that out.

[@jonsanford2515]

I’d add the headlamp (or whatever light source) to the must have as well. If you NEED to get to your car now, because the first aid will only get you by for a little while, it could be dangerous to have to decide between waiting til morning, or going in the dark.

[@ironpig701]

Another great video. My thoughts as a new hiker is to get weight down where I can so I can carry luxury items like a chair. I pack my quilt and any extra clothes like puffy in a sea to summit compression dry bag and then into a nyloflume bag. And while yes a beacon is a want I see it more as a need. Short of a day hike I take mine with me.

[@FlyingAxel1010]

Something to keep in mind about ursacs if that while they may be able to keep bears away, they do NOT keep "mini bears" away, such as squirrels. A good friend of mine learned that the hard way. We all went together for a fifteen minute walk away from camp and his bag had been completely torn and his food, ransacked by rodents when we came back.

[@johnphillips3526]

OPSack inside, problem solved.

[@AustinMartin0]

I backpack almost exclusively with Ursacks and have never had a problem with animals. I assume this is due to the odor blocking OPsack inside. I just assumed this was commonplace, no?

[@MichaelsPwner]

Was he using the bear “proof” one or the bear and critter proof one?

[@dp7933]

If it's warm enough. I forgo socks altogether. I hike in flip-flops. Yes, you will occasionally stub your toe, but the luxury of having almost no weight on your feet and feet that can breathe is immeasurable. In summer, you will be so much cooler if your feet are exposed. Downside-- you need a spare pair since they are not the most durable things, and you probably still need to carry shoes/boots and two pairs of socks if the weather is subject to change. But when you can wear them for your hike, flip-flips are bliss.

[@rickyoung360]

What you said about the sleeping bag being your last line of defense against the cold is correct. That is why I only use Wiggy's bags. It's the only sleeping bag that can get soaked and still keep you warm and alive if for some reason everything I have gets wet. A down bag is nice because it's light weight and packs down nice and small but it can kill you if it gets wet and you're far from help. To me, it's worth a few extra ounces for something that will possibly save my life.

[@Sinisterbio360]

I agree with this, you’d definitely recommend a Wiggy’s bag? Any particular model you recommend?

[@rickyoung360]

@@Sinisterbio360 I would definitely recommend any Wiggy's bags. Any particular model for you is dependent on what you require, what climate you'll be camping in, or if you prefer a mummy bag over a rectangular bag, etc. It's best to go to Wiggy's website and determine what is best for your purpose. If you call Wiggy's, Jerry Wigutow (aka Wiggy) will more than likely be the one that answers the phone. He can answer any questions you might have. Go to his website and read the testimonials...

[@markthomas2436]

I don't know why more backpackers don't see the benefit of carrying a chair. It is SO worth having. Once you get used to it you will never go camping without it again. Makes the whole campfire experience FAR better.

[@karolinarutova5565]

I use smaller drybags to keep my stuff organized and keeping it dry is nice bonus. I also carry raincover. Smaal drybags are also good in case some water leaks from inside - water bottle etc.

[@valdius85]

Vacuum storrage bags for clothes are good alternative as well for sleeping bags. The bag cane be made flat and keep a comfortable shape behind the back. Obviously fully waterproof.

[@meisfriend]

I rarely take a water filter with. I usually hike in places where the water is just unusable all together (swampy areas) or where the water is so clean it doesn’t need filtering. Also I hike in sweden, where there are usually clean water sources along the trails (wells or gas stations)

[@nopeninja8883]

I'm so happy youtube recommended your channel. I'm currently living in a van and there is lots of overlap of great items that you've helped me find:) you rock!

[@mortillery2306]

On the mark and thanks for giving it a chance and showing why so many wasted so much money. Should have pointed how nice large on ground tents you can stand up and walk around and have split rooms for about $200.

[@hikesteepfishhigh]

I backpack in the Sierra Nevada and I use a plastic ground cloth to prevent water that evaporates from the ground at night making me colder, wetting out my tent floor and from adding extra condensation. the added puncture protection is worth it alone as I use a neoaire xlite sleeping pad. i carry a knife because I flyfish and eat brook trout. they are delicious wrapped in bacon and pan fried in my msr ceramic coated skillet. in brown bear territory i would carry a pistol anywhere allowed and definitely carry bear spray in areas I couldn't. the black bears in the sierra nevada love human food but are very leary of people. bear cannisters are required in most of the sierra nevada and are really convenient, considerate to the wildlife by keeping human food from them and make a decent seat.

[@UcranianoUKR]

I use compression dry bag instead of factory stuff bag for keeping my sleeping bag dry. Usually takes up even less space

[@sirridesalot6652]

I love my military green foam sleeping pad and have used it in -40C with it on a bed of pine boughs and a US military surplus mountain sleeping bag. I also carry three pairs of extra socks including one pair that are large enough to fit over my boots as the socks give far greater grip on wet slimy rocks when crossing streams or rivers.

[@ca2129]

Finally some one is finally pushing the trawl! So many lists I see leave out a poop system and it is the #2 thing people need to bring(#1 water). Human crap on the trail is the worst.

[@dylanthomas3140]

I just make a dig stick

[@aaronp5197]

Thanks so much for the checklist. Always nice to have a document like that just to make sure.

[@backpacker3421]

I'm also a liner+cover guy. I mean, put together they both weigh about an ounce and a half.... and since I pack a ULA pack, which is not DCF, having the cover means my pack isn't getting heavier in the rain by absorbing water. But.... the cover isn't full proof. In a heavy or prolonged (or both) rain, water will run down your back, so the liner is there to make extra sure.

[@greg2141]

Since sleeping bags are so critical it’s best to go synthetic like the Kifaru slick bag. Skip the down bags. Skip the trowel use a stick. Go grab a 2” thick strong stick… there’s like 1000 in the woods behind you. Scrape down like a dog digging don’t dig like a human with a shovel. Better than a trowel anyway.

[@rachelkarcher2565]

Yes!! Double protection for the backpack and contents.

[@badbobby11]

Chair… no. I’m going to add my name to the anti- chair list. For the cost of a lb… bring a hammock. It can be a chair, lounge bed… or in many of my hikes or camp excursions add a small tarp … my shelter. Easy to set up and isn’t going to break. If hammock sleeping is a problem… have it rest partially on the ground with a getto light mattress you hate for being inadequate ( in this setup it works). 15 lbs pack wight and completely awesome.

[@cagneybillingsley2165]

i wouldn't use a trowel, the stiff metal ones are heavier than necessary. just carve a stick to have sharp flat surface and use that instead. if you're thru hiking or backpacking, those areas are all saturated with catholes, you might dig into an existing cathole especially because people use the same trees and good spots to go to the toilet. for solo hiking or survival in off grid areas maybe it's fine

[@ohokcool]

What an amazing migration you captured at the end!!

[@ReaganRuinedEverything]

Yea I'm a hammock guy, and OneWind has a gear hammock that doubles as a rain cover for your backpack, I absolutely love it. I'm still going to be using a trash bag as a liner, but if I can keep my pack AND my gear dry, I'm happy, esp when it a with gear I already need to carry that just has multiple uses lol

[@maxvcollenburg]

I love to take my DD SuperLight Hammock (350g), totally worth the weight to me.

[@giftedfox4748]

I think, besides having the SOS GPS box that may or may not work, is to have a proper GPS watch that acts as a compass, weather tracker, location beacon, and can withstand the harsh conditions of nature. I understand having the peace of mind that you might be okay by applying the SOS, but I feel more comfortable myself if I have the proper tools to get myself out of the tight spot. If I know that I can be fine because of the gear I have then that gives me more peace of mind. Just seeing something lay in front of me knowing what I can do with the gear is better than hoping the box is connected and sent the SOS signal.

[@Crucifiedego]

What about a dry bag for your sleeping bag/quilt? I keep the small dessicant bags that come with most products and throw a few in a dry bag to keep moisture down. Also... Butt wipes > TP.

[@douglasjames37]

Loved the birds! Thanks for including that.

[@CatalinaMorris]

I dont have any training on emergencies, highly recommend the “Adventure Medical Kit” comes with a handy guide for many medical issue, and add a SWAT-T tourniquete to the mix.

[@Mr_Gabbles]

I think sandals are a must for any area with lots of stream crossings

[@blackrat9177]

If your bivvy camping my suggestion is to put any essentials that you don't want getting wet inside the bivvy that way it acts as a dry sack

[@The-Sound-Explorer]

I have a ZOLEO, took it on my last trip in august, worked not messaging almost every time I tried. Love it.

[@danielfegley2735]

After seeing the latest video from Kyle hates hiking I would say an emergency signaling device is a must have for every hike .

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

I have carried a signaling device in the past. This may be an unnecessary risk but my ZOLEO has taken its place. Plus your phone screen can be used like a signaling mirror. That said an actual signaling mirror isn’t that heavy

[@MichaelsPwner]

Just make sure you learn how to use it. It’s pretty simple, but it would be terrible to be in an emergency and then use it wrong. Sadly something as simple as that would have saved that man’s life. It was a terribly sad video. It was very relatable. I probably would have done all the same things.

[@danielfegley2735]

@@MyLifeOutdoorsZOLEO was the word I meant to say when I said signaling device I have heard you say it many times before but could not think of it at the time ,by the way you say that you can't find the perfect tent maybe the trick is to make your own I've found a site called flat broke out doors , wear he shows how to do that

[@backpacker3421]

I use the URsack.... but I also hang it PCT style rather than just tie it to a tree trunk. I mean, if it takes more than half a dozen tries to hang it, I may give up and just tie it to a trunk, but I've only had that happen twice. I also prefer to tie a sling and hang a canister PCT style. I've got a few friends who have woken up to find their canister missing. One never found it, and the other spotted it a few hundred yards off scratched all to hell (but intact). Hanging is always the first line of defense. If the bear can't reach it, your food is good to go. But you have to know how to do it right (there's lots of good videos - just search for PCT style bear bag hang). Practice helps with line throwing, and also having the right type of line (look for what arborists use - it's called zing-it I think - very strong and very slick so it won't snag easy).

[@HadrianBourdon]

I personally put my sleeping bag in a compression dry bag, been through full dunks and stayed dry worth the 30$

[@lifson22]

One thing I never see mentioned, is that pack liners don't help keep your pack material from absorbing water, and here in the pnw weather can shift and rain can be heavy and last days. My old gregory is already heavy, and can easily gain almost a full pound when it's soaking wet, as well t can also pool in the bottom. Rain covers for me thanks.

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

Loved a chair but added bulk so use a tent where the main pole I can sit up against and sit up against it either from the inside or outside with mat under.

[@palmersola2337]

Spies of Sauramon. The passage south is being watched.

[@mendyviola]

As an older woman, I bring a laundry soap bar and a small washboard. Urinary incontinence is a real problem at a certain age. It just takes me sneeze…

[@MoeBergOSS]

I use those same sandals and they work!!!! Thanks for saying the Ursack is bear “resistant” and not bear proof. Many people don’t word that correctly. Excellent video!!!!

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Thanks for confirming the sandals. I’ve been getting several comments complaining about them. And thanks for watching

[@MoeBergOSS]

@@MyLifeOutdoors I’m taking them on the thru-hike of the Colorado Trail this summer.

[@beaniezotzim]

What brand are they??

[@Eunegin23]

The chair is like a culture shock for me. Hiking mainly in Europe, but also in the Maghreb, Egypt, Turkey and (Central) Asia, I never saw anyone with a chair.

[@redragna3648]

Definitely an American thing.

[@JesseCase]

For me an extra pair of socks is an absolute must! I could deal without my sleeping pad far easier than not having at least one extra pair of socks! Unfortunately I have excessively and ridiculously sweaty feet and my socks after only a few hours are literally slimy. So if I don't have a dry pair of socks to switch to I end up with pretty much constant trench foot. It can get really bad at times where my feet will become bright red and it stings when you touch the red areas. Plus they stay water logged. So anyways an extra pair of socks or two is not an option for me.

[@moonlite9163]

Those birds sound a lot like starlings, we also get them in Australia which migrate back and forth from the Daintree to Papua New Guinea

[@richardinacan]

i plan on making those sandals for $2 instead of $40USD plus shipping, the design is brilliant, but very easy to replicate

[@thomas.thomas]

good idea

[@MegaAaron42]

Hey you can also cook over an open fire no stoves needed .

[@shawnago]

Solid video! Also just bought a zoleo and haven't activated it so I'm glad yt suggested this video for me 🎉

[@dangurtler7177]

Water and food are as important as anything else. I used to drink straight from springs and streams, but I won’t do that anymore.

[@jenniferbates2811]

I will never go camping or hiking, but I really enjoy your channel.

[@dylanthomas3140]

That’s crazy

[@jenniferbates2811]

@@dylanthomas3140 what is?

[@richardinacan]

that hiking chair isn't for serious hikers. I tried to carry one with me in the alps, and posted it home as soon as I could so I could sell it. it's just dead weight and it's a LOT of weight at 500g. If you're serious about hiking, a 15g sheet of plastic will keep your butt dry and there's always somewhere reasonable to sit.

[@maurolimaok]

I complete agree with the trowel.

[@divineinpurple9058]

All the birds are rushing to go shopping after hearing your gear recommendations!

[@RedSonya4]

“Cinematic poop,” I love this channel ❤

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Haha you’re welcome

[@daviddeshazo5183]

I just ordered a chair for sure, never thought of taking a quilt over a sleeping bag.

[@DavidSmith-fz8ju]

I see two schools of packs.one is the lots of pockets n the other is all in one idea.both are gospel, both have merit. Like cheap liner or holie grail stuff big bag.like fancy rain jacket or poncho.many competing views.

[@martgoodman1726]

I discovered Wright Socks years ago. They are THE BEST! I never have foot issues.

[@GrizzlyGaz]

It's sometimes hard to get rid of those creature comforts!

[@kchortu]

I stopped using tp and use cheap thin paper towels i just get the wet before I find i use so much less and feel cleaner.

[@Captaraknospider]

Line the sleeping bag stuff sack. Do not just wrap the whole thing. This stops the water proof bag getting holes or not being sealed.

[@Simple_But_Expensive]

I have had a rain cover actually collect rainwater. My pack looked like it had a load in its diaper. Since then I have just carried an army poncho that covers me and my pack.

[@b.3713]

I keep my sleep system in a compression drybag, then use that to hang my food at camp after i'm unpacked.

[@hefeibao]

Excellent video - wish I had watched this when I started my backpacking journey 5 years ago. :)