Why You Hate Camping (and How to Fix It)

[@noellemes8824]

First time camping alone in nature, I went only one night. I made sure I had a nice and really comfortable sleeping bag and mattress, was within an hour of my home, and I parked my car 500 meters from the campground. If i didn't like it, I would be in the car in 5 minutes, and at home in an hour. I had an amazing experience, and planned my next trip on the day I got back. Baby steps are the best steps.

[@HAL-BADAL]

Something I unwittingly did to make my first time sleeping outdoors alone less scary/strange. I was so stoked to have a sleep system, I slept with it in my living room (off and on) for a couple weeks. By the time I set it up for real, I knew how much air I liked in my pillow and pad and I was totally comfortable with my tent’s sights, smells, sounds, etc. I remember, it felt kinda weird until I got tucked in and zipped my tent shut, then I was magically home.

[@lburton874]

When camping with a newbie…. I make sure they get good sleep and feed them really well.

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

One of my luxury items I always carry with me is a portable USB powered fan. It keeps me cool at night, moves the air and provides some white noise that helps me sleep at night.

[@eric_hanson]

white noise is very helpful!

[@chillpill83]

Which one do you use?

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

@@chillpill83 I have two. The main one is one from Treva. It has a cord that plugs into the battery bank or a place for four AA batteries. I like this one the best. I don't recall where I got it from. The second is made by Perfect Aire and I got it from an Ace hardware store in Texas. It has an internal battery but it doesn't last throughout the night unless it's plugged into a battery bank. The Treva weighs 211 grams while the perfect air weighs 245 grams.

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

​@@robynroamsoutdoorsmine is an Amazon "import", USB rechargeable/or connected to a power bank. Fan is 5" diameter, has 3 sppeds, and the light has 3 settings. It can hang or sit on the ground. Lasts several hours.

[@arlenesolis024]

Being outside listening to nature is the best thing for mental health. It has worked for me and literally saved me. Thx for sharing your experience ❤❤

[@eric_hanson]

I fully agree! I love the natural sounds but I know if you're not used to it, it can be a point of anxiety.

[@ericb40380]

What you mentioned at the start is a big one for me that I tell people. When just starting, don't go buy the most expensive everything. But also don't go to Walmart and just buy whatever. Doing so could lead to nothing but irritation and lack of comfort. Then you don't hate camping, you hate your gear and take it out on camping. That's why I keep everything I've ever bought and let people borrow old stuff. Then they can get a sense of what they do or don't like about a piece of gear before they buy their own.

[@patrickmcginty7154]

Another good strategy I use to help with noise while camping is to try to camp by a stream so the white noise will cancel out most noises you might hear while trying to sleep in the outdoors.

[@anthonyrstrawbridge]

Head waters are my life but I'll take a tail over a lake.👍

[@Diplomat_x]

I like black noise better

[@1519Spring]

Also helpful if your camping neighbors snore or talk or are otherwise loud.

[@anthonyrstrawbridge]

@@1519Spring Excellent point except that my loud snoring drives away all predators

[@JCJ7754]

A constant light wind blowing over the fly also works for me, hate still nights!

[@derrickwalker538]

I don’t understand why you don’t have more subscribers than you do!! You should be at least around 700k by now!!

[@inthehouse1960]

Also, I have limited mobility, so I car camp here in Colorado. I use a tent I can stand up in (also easy to put up) and a folding cot with a 5-inch air mattress on top. I sleep like a baby. Camping in the State Forest is wilder than a reserved park campsite and safer than the backcountry. I'll keep doing it as long as I can set up my tent. Take care.

[@rnavarrete1956]

I was in Yosemite near Happy Isles a number of years ago, and literally heard a young teen girl say ‘Eww, a squirrel!’ 😆

[@BUYBOTH]

That is funny. Probably complained about dirt being everywhere too.

[@rnavarrete1956]

@@BUYBOTH She was with a group of other teens. She was more interested in her friends than the beauty of Yosemite.

[@1519Spring]

As a scout leader who has never suffered from any of these fears, I still found this video very helpful in understanding the psychology of others around me (youth and adults), including actionable tips to allay those fears. Thanks!

[@inthehouse1960]

Welcome to Colorado. I've lived here for 40 years and love it when people come here to enjoy our wilderness. I hope you'll feature your Colorado adventures here on KZbin. Blessings.

[@TT79-]

Every time I see someone with those Fjallraven pants i remind myself to keep saving. Quality gear is such a difference. My first ever 4 day was miserable because i went full budget and had to make it a 3 day.

[@2DogsAndAMan]

My first time camping was just me and my dog in a mildly chilly November last year. It ended up raining the entire 4 days. Fortunately I checked the forecast prior to going and bought rain gear. My pitbull on the other hand is a savage and loves freezing rain and snow. Slept better than ever. The peace of complete silence was a first for me. I’ve been craving it ever since

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

I've been camping since before, during, and after my military days. My late Dad started me out in the yard... and to be honest, I at 60 still do. I have a half acre in a rural area. The only thing I hear at night are owls "conversing" which lulls me off to sleep. What I recommend is starting in your own yard (if you have one), is to go to a State Park/Campground which is staffed 24/7 by Rangers, and there are designated camping spots far enough away from the RVers. Go visit for an hour or two during the day and get familiar with it. Some large metro areas like Cleveland have the Metro Parks... you are in the woods, in the city. With 24/7 staff. Gear, comfortable gear doesn't have to cost half your mortgage... I use a Thermarest/Cascade "self inflatable" military issue ($50 New - you have to finish blowing it up yourself), a GI style 70-80% wool blanket or military poncho liner (woobie) either are $30-40, as a light blanket/quilt. I never could sleep in a sleeping bag. I turn too much. I also have a USB rechargeable combo fan/light. And as far as tents, never go by the manufacturer # of persons... always go the next size up. For 2 campers, get a 3 person tent. Many high quality tents are under $100. You won't feel like a sardine. Lastly, I always recommend people bring a proper first aid kit and a few days supply of OTC meds e.g. Tylenol, Motrin, Benedryl, Hydrocortisone, something for burns... and if you don't know basic first aid, LEARN. Knowledge is always valuable... learn about mosquitoes and ticks, and how to minimize contact with them... learn what poison ivy/oak looks like, etc... then go enjoy nature.

[@peterfagley772]

Great video and thankful for the time you take to help and advise hikers and campers.

[@eric_hanson]

Much appreciated!

[@Rob-Eckert]

I appreciate your advice regarding satellite communication services and mapping services, rather than recommending specific products. It is the general knowledge and concept of using these services and products that is most important, not just one brand or the other. I think you did a great job with this video.

[@Colby168]

Anxiety at night was my biggest issue but I love to be outside and hike so I made it a goal to sleep in a tent at least once a month this year and over time my sleep has gotten better. It’s just been a matter of overcoming my anxieties by just repeatedly doing it and dialing in my sleep system. Also anxiety in general about stuff that can go wrong. Most of the time I bring my kids backpacking with me and that adds a large layer of anxiety for me. Slowly but surely it’s going away as I get out more.

[@sherrierifenberg2199]

Great info video…sent this to my friend who is absolutely AFRAID of the outdoors! TY! BTW…love your OV hoodie!

[@Ramme86]

best tip is.. get out in the summer, easier to enjoy it and the gear is usually cheaper. after that you can evolve if you liked it. but, then u have to buy twice tho, and that isnt optimal if you follow the "buy once - cry once" but i think it removes a lot of "pressure" paying lots of money just to see if u like it or not. just a tip =)

[@Fizzyfuzzybignbuzzy]

Hike to a place with fish. Become an angler. I promise you that you will never be bored and you will be having the time of your life out there. As for bears if you’re worried train and get good with a 10 mm. It’s a great seat belt

[@sherapower908]

Right? I just moved to a place where the gun laws aren’t as strict. I want a gun for my back packing trips. It’s crazy how many hikers are against it. I’ve encounter bears before, luckily in my car but if it’s just me and the woods I would feel much more comfortable with a gun

[@ulibredulli]

I am here for your journey from proper outdoor youtuber to comic relief to unhinged artist. You got what it takes. Follow your creative heart. Also, what do you do when you love camping and have "DontWannaGoHomeatosis"?

[@ValkyrieHikes]

This is awesome, Eric!! Thanks for the laughs and the valuable information. Eww, grouse!😆🤣

[@eric_hanson]

I'm really glad to see some appreciation for the grouse joke!

[@crlaf1978]

I LOVE CAMPING What I need to fix is time allocation 🙌🏻🙌🏻 thanks for the vid and tips!!

[@johncheeseman6764]

Eric my 100 lbs Great Pyrenees guards my camp and I sleep like a camper, never worry about anything approaching our camp. See you on the trail.

[@eric_hanson]

whoa, thats an impressive body guard you've got there!

[@tjc9514]

Okay, I did not expect the ew bumblebee line right after the ew grouse line and it took me a minute to get back to the video. Excellent humor

[@itsmeLori]

Lolol I’m a city person, and have watched your channel for a while since I started doing outdoorsy stuff a few years ago. Each time I watch a video of yours, or some of the other usual suspects, I ask myself if I could ever be a camping person and have yet to take the plunge. I love hiking but haven’t been on multi day hikes yet. Personally it’s not because I’m uncomfortable with the idea of sleeping outside, with all the awesome information available now and the products to help make it comfortable, it feels like it could even be a fun challenge-what stops me is yes… BUGS. And also needing to find inspiration for manageable hikes that require a multiple day trek. A lot of people talk about gear or extreme hikes but there seems to be less information about beginner friendly multi-day hikes that are significantly better than a pretty green forest with some nice views, which I can get in many places in less than a day. However I think I have finally found one by accident, so I think I may finally do it! If you have recommendations for where to look specifically for these kinds of multi day hikes I would really appreciate it. AllTrails doesn’t filter this way, and is also not easy to narrow down if I’m very open to traveling away from home, but don’t know exactly where I want to go.

[@itsmeLori]

I should add that, I’m really appreciative of all your content because the only reason why I think it could even be feasible for me to sleep outdoors is because of channels like yours, Miranda’s, Dan’s, and others. It’s both the information and the joy you bring to it that makes it seem like maybe I’m missing out on something super fun. :) so thank you

[@LoreTunderin]

The biggest motivator for me has been finding hobbies I can do in the backcountry that give me a reason to check out new places. Photography, bird watching, geology/rock hounding for gemstones or fossils, prospecting/gold panning, flora and fauna identification (record everything like you're collecting Pokemon haha), metal detecting, wild clay pottery, and even just general exploration of cool places I find on Google maps and LIDAR maps of an area. LIDAR is especially awesome as it maps the ground beneath the tree canopy with extreme detail, letting you spot cool features like abandoned mine entrances and prospecting trenches, old rock walls left by pioneer farmers clearing their fields, foundations of long gone buildings that make good sites for metal detecting, creeks and waterfalls that don't show up on maps, ancient glacial deposits, etc.

[@pedalparadise4096]

Where to go is key, and it's not easy to find info on the right daily/overall distance, elevation gain, availability of overnight sites, etc.

[@itsmeLori]

@@LoreTunderin love the idea of making a real life Pokédex lol How often do you discover something underground?! That’s amazing

[@itsmeLori]

@@pedalparadise4096 do you know of any good solutions/resources? I actually just ordered a book called 100 hikes of a lifetime, will see if I find anything there

[@strangerous1313]

Yo Eric.....good topic. When I go alone, I bring a book or my iPad. Sometimes being in nature inspires me to write! When with a few people, we will play Pathfinder roleplaying game. We play 'theater of the mind,' so we don't need a table, etc.

[@Goatcheesemightyfine]

The part of the video where you’re shaking your head rocking out to music on the headphones is great stuff. 😂👌🏻

[@marcushillerstrom25]

Just getting started, but I love everything about it so far 😅 Fun video!

[@twinartifact263k3]

I feel like buying a camping mattress it’s very similar to buying one you use in your house like if you spend less money on a mattress for your house it will be as good as a really expensive one like most people mattresses are probably more expensive but they last longer than if you have a really cheap one

[@Wazoo53]

I used to dislike sleeping outside largely cause of comfort - I could never find a mattress that was comfortable especially when backpacking. I finally went in on the Zenbivy system after both you and Dan Becker sang its praises and I legit sometimes sleep better in my car or backpacking over in my home after acquiring one 😂

[@jessicaleighdargaclark4536]

Ugh, the mosquitoes... malaria ridden west nile spreading bloodsucking little turds. My #1 Nemesis. That being said, spring and fall camping are my favorites!!

[@benjaminlesue1372]

Nice book choice! Bird by Bird is one of my favorites.

[@AndrewB416]

The ZenBivy is the way to go. It's fantastic.

[@kristymoore7052]

I’m an avid camper/backpacker. I enjoy your channel. Push back I get most from non backpacker/campers is a. Wild animals (fear) but b. Dirt and hygiene.

[@eric_hanson]

yeah hygiene is a definite big one. That needs it's own stand alone video!

[@AkinaLOL]

I just contacted my local orienteering club asking them to teach me how to use a map and compass, even if I end up never needing it it's a really cool skill to have anyway in my opinion.

[@michelleguy5121]

Another great & super informative video. Love the humor/acting skills in the beginning...lol!!!

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you! This could be my big break into Hollywood. Fingers crossed!

[@davidgoff7336]

Great humorous beginning Eric. Followed by some of the best tips for the beginner who is just setting their toes into the wilderness. :)

[@eric_hanson]

ha thank you! Glad to hear it!

[@amandaclark7718]

I love camping and would love to get into backpacking. My only issue is it is so uncomfortable sleeping on a hard ground

[@24AheadDotCom]

I cowboy camped in the snow once: no tent, just a pad + bag. That was OK. I have three tents, two small (backpacking) and a car camping setup: a 9-person tent (way to heavy to backpack) + a cot. I prefer the latter setup, but even with that I have trouble sleeping. I also don't like "pooping in holes", being without internet, being without power, being without TV, being without a shower. Being outside etc isn't an issue. I hike a lot. I drive hours to hike places. I just greatly prefer dayhikes and Motel 6 or at least KOA. Another thing is I'd prefer to use daily contacts and for those I need hot water. It's too bad there isn't more Euro-style multi-day hiking in the USA.

[@philipm.2240]

11:00 Its not just the mosquitos, but also things like ticks. These latch and feed on you far longer than mosquitos, and have the potential to transmit some serious diseases that mosquitoes can't like Lyme disease and Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE).

[@vanessawatson1768]

Love love love your vids thanks for the fun you create in them. So true about noises and animals when camping I’m from Australia so snakes, spiders, really really big lizards and all bitie and stingy things don’t worry me when camping. But I plan to come hike in the states and that has me worried. Hahaha won’t stop me though.

[@peterhuggins9267]

This is a great video - thank you.

[@HikingWithCam]

Quilts were a game changer for me. It cured my lackawannacampitus.

[@greasemonkey4god]

Bear encounters near us (Yellowstone national park) that end up bad are mostly hunters who are sneaking around anyhow. Hikers who end up making a little noise will rarely see a bear. The other reason is food. A lady died near town a couple years ago in a campground because she kept the food in her tent.

[@ItsAStephanieB]

Hahaha! 😂 What a GREAT intro!!!

[@eric_hanson]

shucks, thank you!

[@mattbutalla6498]

Use cots. I will gladly hike into a site and sleep on a pad but if you're car camping try cots. We car camp a ton as a family and im always bringing the cheap (but heavy) Coleman trailhead cots. Id actually rather sleep on a pad (and i mean pad) than an air mattress (as in the crazy thick and unstable Coleman ones)

[@anthonyrstrawbridge]

One useful thing is something I call TWAT Temperature = Wind+ Altitude+Topography. Windward= decreased flying insects. Leeward better fishing. Altitude to adjust temperature wind direction and velocity, tends to change ay right angles every 1,500:😊

[@eric_hanson]

That's very technical and useful but might need to rethink the acronym!

[@anthonyrstrawbridge]

@@eric_hanson 💛 Keep on Rocking the Rockies.

[@Andokato]

Needed to hear the points from this video, thank you Eric

[@eric_hanson]

You're welcome!

[@julieetscheid9682]

Thanks for your tips! I'm still working through my night critter-sound fears. Earplugs have helped, as well as your other tips. In addition to the straight up statistics about not likely getting attacked, I always tell myself that I can stay up and lose sleep worrying about sounds, or I can sleep and wake up pleasantly surprised that I made it through the night. :) Also, I bought a Zenbivy, and I concur that it's sooo comfy! Worth the investment!

[@paulb6428]

No mention of Icaridin/picaridin?

[@user-he8qc4mr4i]

@erick, I am impressed by how pristine you keep your Appalachian trail cap :-O. Mine is super dark

[@fire7side]

A lot of people make the mistake of giving the rvalue of the hard foam pad without considering that you sleep on the high points and the low points are filled with the down from your sleeping bag. I use a convoluted rollup and have slept fairly comfortably down to 30 degrees. They aren't that comfortable, but they are warmer than most people think. I have a dog and he's put some decent scratches in it but it's always still insulating in the morning. Also, most of the charts I see give it an rvalue of 2. Sleeping on a hard surface is mostly a matter of getting as much of your body flat as possible, even on you side. You roll your shoulder and keep both legs in contact. It's just like learning to roll over in a mummy bag. You get used to it.

[@eric_hanson]

The closed cell foam pads are just not comfortable. For those who are used to it I think they're acceptable. I grew up using them and thought sleeping like crap was just what you get when you go camping. Until I tried inflatable mattresses. I get why so many people associate camping with being miserably uncomfortable and foam pads are a big culprit.

[@fire7side]

@@eric_hanson I sleep like crap no matter what I sleep on. Usually I go about 3 hours, maybe four. Then I'm up for a while. Then I take a nap and get a few more hours. Doesn't matter where or what my bed feels like. Those hard foam mats are a little more uncomfortable, though. It just doesn't change anything. Anyway, it's enough sleep and if I need more, I'll get it on the next day. If people can't deal with a little discomfort, they shouldn't camp.

[@ryan92084]

The foam pad worked until I hit 35 or so, luckily the inflatables had gotten much better by then.

[@fire7side]

@@ryan92084 They are fine till you wake up on the ground one cold morning. It doesn't have to get much below freezing before I'm done unless it's spring. In Wisconsin we basically have spring and fall for camping. Summer is billions of mosquitoes, biting flies, and wood ticks, and winter is so far below zero I don't care to think about it.

[@sophieisabelle3762]

@@fire7sidesee, I sleep like a baby when I’m camping, but I need an inflatable pad - foam will mean zero sleep. Having chronic pain comes into that, but the difference the inflatable pad makes is just *everything*

[@Etb323]

AFAIK icaridin is a great repellent without the downsides of deet.

[@grapefruitm00n]

An interesting strategy that's worked great for me, is that I never go camping anymore. This way, I can't hate it as I'm not being subjected to it.

[@mendyviola]

Hubby doesn’t like to be exposed to the weather and bugs. He doesn’t even like glamping. 😂

[@johngreiner3879]

If you are car camping, which is most likely for beginners, then you can skip the expensive sleep equipment. Bring blankets for underneath and on top, plus your home pillow. Bulky, but comfy, and you already own it.

[@toryevanss4512]

And if the weather is warm, you can use a cheap air mattress that isn't made specifically for camping.

[@14guitars67]

Picaridin! Better than DEET in virtually every way. Thanks for the great info.

[@stevrnmcmorris]

Hey Eric , love what you do . I was wondering if you have ever compared the granite gear crown 3 against the decathlon mt100 in relation to someone who hasn't gone backpacking in almost 50 years . Any guidance would be awsome

[@saintyoo]

1. Heat 2. Bugs 3. Pooping outdoors

[@phillvallace]

Foam mattress, best mattress

[@BUYBOTH]

Nothing beats being in the wilderness.

[@bartcutler5195]

What brand and model is that sick lightweight tent?

[@justinwilkins6386]

The first night is the only night I have trouble sleeping, I think that's mostly just due to adrenaline of being out there! Every night after that, I don't have any trouble sleeping, due to the fact that I am tired enough to sleep anywhere!

[@justinwilkins6386]

That brings me to my next point, if you ever see me in a fight with a bear, you better jump in, and help the bear!

[@alexkevhikes]

Ear plugs are the most important item in my system lol 🤣.

[@glennpaul9173]

Being almost deaf is what keeps me from wanting to hike and camp alone. I wouldn't hear a snake rattling or an animal moving near me until I visually see it.

[@needtokeepwalking]

Australian here, don't stress about that, our snakes aren't kind enough to rattle and are a hell of a lot more dangerous. Your natural instincts will alert you to their presence.

[@A_Amazi]

I don’t see the satellite thing in the gear list?

[@jukkavv]

Suunto is 👍🏻

[@dominicteresi3835]

Personally I think the best way is to get out is to go with a group for the first dozen times to help get use to the outdoors

[@Harry-Giles]

LOL, well done. And very true.

[@eric_hanson]

Thank you!

[@ItsAStephanieB]

Where can I get a quilt sheet from? First I hear of it. Will it eliminate some drafts that sneak in?

[@eric_hanson]

the main purpose of the sheet is to eliminate drafts, and it does it very well! You can get the one in the video here: alnk.to/9Ie8Ijc

[@A_Amazi]

Here from Kyle Hates Hiking :)

[@gud2go50]

Where is the catchie acronym, ERIC? People can’t be labeled without one, don’t ya know! Like TDS! I’m sure you know what that stands for, Right?😂

[@johncheeseman6764]

Use ONX , still carry a map and compass

[@eric_hanson]

analog is still great to have and use.

[@haruhidaso]

I think the biggest problem is that you have to invest several hundred dollars to have decent experience in something you might not be sure if you like it or not. Most other hobbies, you can dip your toes in by trying something very inexpensive.

[@15halerobert]

maps and compasses don't run out of power

[@4rr44E]

A quilt is basically an unzipped mummy bag.

[@ryan92084]

You mention alternatives to DEET but don't mention the best, picaridin. It has all of the effectiveness with none of the downsides. You can get it as a lotion, spray, or aerosol. I like the Proven brand spray where there is only an upfront alcohol scent but afterwards is unnoticeable but other popular brands are sawyer (the filter company) and even Off have gotten on board.

[@LegalzinhaMaria]

Would Cosmic Down 20 be good for summer?

[@eric_hanson]

Yep! I'd say you can be comfortable in this sleeping bag in temperatures above 35-40 fahrenheit. Good bag for low price.

[@afnDavid]

No I don't hate 'this!" I an not addicted to the modern conveniences. It is actually quite nice to leave the useless crap at home and rough it.

[@chrismoore600]

I use earplugs because the guys I camp with snore like bears. I camp to get away from modern life and recharge with nature.

[@Just4Gordon]

Once again Eric good video based upon longtime experience. My goodness- Outdoor Vitals, Big Agnes and many others- comfort and reliability. Practice locally ( even in your backyard) helps build confidence. Miss seeing you and Dan B. Collaborating; maybe again?

[@eric_hanson]

Thanks! Dan and I got something in the works! You'll see us together again soon!

[@terryt2910]

I have watched many of your videos, and have a lot of respect for your knowledge and experience, Eric, but by the time you got through $800 beds, ear plugs , and audio books, I could see you were talking to people who might enjoy a couple nights at a luxury hotel more than a couple days in the wild. And more power to them. I don't think you have to take the wild out of the woods to enjoy the experience, and have a good night's sleep, nor do you have to spend a couple grand to be comfortable.

[@GhostObsessed]

Number one fear, well hidden on trail rattlesnakes that don't rattle.

[@eric_hanson]

That's understandable. I live in Arizona and have come across only a handful of rattlesnakes on trail. If they're not rattlin' then they're not feeling defensive or aggressive, so very low likelihood of them striking.

[@GhostObsessed]

Reading your reply legitimately made me feel better. Appreciate the insight brother ty ❤️👊

[@smellybearc7411]

If I hate camping, why would I watch this video?

[@jadasakura]

The only thing I hate about camping is when people run loud generators, especially at night 😢 it's honestly the main appeal of backpacking to me

[@eric_hanson]

yup! avoid campgrounds where it's mostly RVs.

[@musingwithreba9667]

I just don't understand people who don't like camping. But then those same people think I'm crazy for going backpacking solo so... 😉🤣

[@eric_hanson]

haha, I think it's mostly because it's overwhelmingly unfamiliar for people.

[@JarradShaw]

Lol. Oh my god Eric, lol 😆 ❤❤❤

[@barakgunter22]

I feel like this was directed at me.

[@eric_hanson]

The whole time I was just talking to you Barak!

[@afnDavid]

A freind insisted on haveing his cellphone on, and constantly alerting. Please turn it off ! I took it from him 2nd day out and threw it in the river we had camped by.

[@JustJ001]

LMAO...THAT WAS GREAT!

[@eric_hanson]

thank you!

[@JustJ001]

@@eric_hanson I know that I speak for many people when I say that we greatly appreciate your work Eric, thank you so much!

[@davidcooper8390]

Most of the time the only wildlife you need to worry about is mice and squirrels

[@indycharlie]

Or for sleeping , be smarter yet . Get a good blow up mattress with a 5 or higher R value , 3" thick and 25" wide , and put it in a PAD SLEEVE of a sleeping bag made with a sleeve . Nothing worse than waking up 20 times a night when your leg comes off the pad and onto the cold ground . Nemo makes great pads and bags !! Or bring your gat and a great light and your gat . Then you will sleep much better at night , Especially in Big Bear country ..

[@57boomer44]

Could ba a Sasquatch or something for crying out loud!

[@ericwilson4553]

Klymit pads have a 1 r value

[@eric_hanson]

The basic ones do but this one is better than that.

[@3nertia]

"They have lower quality gear" = "Can't afford outrageously priced gear"

[@eric_hanson]

It's not always about what people can afford, but if you are a beginner or are unfamiliar you might have no idea what the benefits of spending more are.

[@needtokeepwalking]

Australian hiker here, i don't care about snakes, spiders, crocs or drop bears in the outback, my greatest fear is ticks, specifically that disease that makes you allergic to meat, that is most dangerous thing that exists.

[@UncleGeorgeTV]

Crack on me up one of your best videos

[@crazymichigander3130]

I prefer to hear all the night noises. I find that trying to drown them out leaves my imagination to run wild and that's no good lol

[@eric_hanson]

In most cases I'd rather hear the natural sounds, except for the time I camped in Hawaii and about 200 roosters wouldn't stop calling the whole night!