*SPOILERS* Fully agree that I should have brought a satellite phone on this trip, or at least for this day. It’s so painfully obvious looking back. A compass would have also been useful in finding Verity, but irrelevant in continuing to navigate the line. Those GPS systems are incredibly reliable and can last for years. Im now pretty sure it was in fact a faulty pack of Duracell batteries that caused the issue. I mean are you kidding me? Anyway, fully understand your frustrations, but I just never planned for such an eventuality, and also pack weight is so critical on these trips. Thanks for all the love, see you all for episode #4. It should be ready by next Tuesday (18th) but I will confirm on a community post.
thanks for producing such an epic and exhilarating series, and for going through what you and Ben did to get it out here. hindsight is 20/20 and if you could i’m sure you would take a million things to assist you. in all honesty, i’m not fussed in the slightest how pure the line is, i’m here to support one of my favourite youtubers and entertainers. thanks Tom, another fantastic episode.
Tom: This is the worst day of my life, my ankle is killing me, and i'm worried that my girlfriend is lost in the woods looking for me and she might be hurt Meanwhile Verity: Nice book
Which was absolutely the right move on Verity's part. Stay where you're supposed to be, and if they never show up get a search party out first thing in the morning. Wandering around in the dark wouldn't help anyone. I feel bad for Tom, though, sounds like he went through hell.
@@Pebphiz Yup everyone knows you stay in the same place when you get lost or you can go in circles around the people searching for you & keep missing them. Obviously under certain circumstances this could change but..
Verity is the heart of all these missions fr. She's so calm and reliable and every time Tom says he can see Verity in these mission videos, I always get so reassured. Like, we're making it out of this one alive and safe, because Verity's here now.
This series is so good. I thought the farmer was bad but this is a different level of intense. This video shows how dangerous this can be and why you should not do this alone or without any experience
This whole episode must be what Tom's fever dreams are like: reservoir crossing, sprained ankle, being "hot" with farmers, stream fordings, wet feet, PEAT BOGS, no phone signal, GPS breaking down, worried about Verity, leaving the line, no footage. Just ridiculous.
@@OMGitsacrazybadger Instead of the classical nightmare where you're trying to run but you can't, Ben is trying to turn left or right on roads but he can't, he just keeps going in straight lines forever
“As the rainbow’s flawless frame grew bolder, so did our hopeful shadows, who flung themselves westward toward the heartening horizon and the calm waters of the reservoir.” - Thomas Davies, Wizard of Geography
@@sohotimhot7975 I can't tell if you're advertising an onlyfans or a k-pop concert, but I think you should really review your tactics and have a CAT scan while you're at it
Verity is the real MVP Her not being calm and composed could have made this SO MUCH worse than anything the GPS could ever do...but she was and she...let's just say smiled...all the way through it like it's nothing. Women : Making men do wild shi7 but also giving them reason to survive said shi7 since 1Million BC
* BRO PLEASE READ THIS * sorry to spam but I rolled my ankle on a multi-day hike similar to yours probably circa 10 years ago or more now. Same bruising (which I later learned were split capillaries leaking blood, lovely!) and swelling you had, and same mentality - tried walking on it and 'it feels ok so I'll just go steady on it' . Please please please see a physio therapist as soon as you can if you haven't already! I didn’t take it seriously when it happened to me and now it’s a massive problem in my life as an experienced and regular climber. That ankle now almost prefers to be out of joint than in, it’s close to being debilitating on big treks. It will roll again of its own accord with no pain or swelling, but once it goes it keeps rolling without warning even on flat footing. I have to bind my whole lower leg up even for steady hikes, and can only wear high lacing boots for treks and even then it’ll still pop out and back in again sporadically and I have zero confidence on it while hiking. Apologies for the essay but it made me wince watching you leap around on yours. Please get it looked at bro 🙏
Yes exactly! as a physio please go see a profesional, torn/sprained ligaments heal very slowly (as in it takes months) and they might not even be painful after a period of rest despite still being damaged. There are things you can do to improve healing and increase stability. I had a pretty badly sprained ankle years ago and despite being put in a cast streight away for 2 weeks and binding it for a while afterwards it will still sometimes roll on flat ground and you can actually palpate where the scar tissue is on the ligaments
Tom, the majority of your audience doesn't care about the "purity" of the mission. We just love the adventure, we love what you do! Always stay safe and thank you for the lovely videos, mate!
This series could be the best thing I've EVER seen, honestly this had me more on the edge of my seat than any tv show i've ever watched. The fact you kept going, the editing, the music, everything is just flawless, seriously. I can't thank you enough for making these, like every time you release an episode it makes my WEEK. incredible job mate
You said it mate. I struggle to keep attentive for anything more than 10 mins.. these have me hoookedddd!!! What I would give to join on these adventures is crazy! I would absolutely kill to join one of these adventures! I am currently on my own adventure in Egypt right now! But returning to England end of this month! I am definitely planning to go adventuring within the UK itself when I’m home. Definitely would pay to be up to attempt something of this nature as well! 😁😁
Brave Dave brought me to this channel. Just after the first straight line attempt of Wales. Go watch Brave Dave's big fat train hop. Its another brilliant watch.
The music just makes this series so much better, it fits the mission perfectly. Everything about this series is just so authentic, from the music to the idea to the raw storytelling. Brilliant as ever mate
Imagine if it hadn't been Verity at the end, but instead the "oiii!" farmer back out on the hunt again.. Truly great channel and series, really entertaining to watch..! Big thrill and awesome storytelling/editing with it too
I am geniunely lost for words... I thought the farmer encounter was an absolute nightmare, but this episode got me joyous, anxious, excited and scared at the same time, the last minutes actually made me tear up to be honest. This mission has been the cruelest of all so far, you two are absolute legends, Verity an absolute saint!
Purple ankle, angry farmers, failing gps, failing gopro, this man cannot be stopped unless theres literally no other option. The dedication is crazy man 👏
This series is more engaging and tense than anything Netflix has to offer. It really is fantastic. I'm so engrossed I've just signed up to the Patreon.
I agree that this is great but you gotta actually each stuff on Netflix my guy. There’s so much greatness there and makes you sound like someone who doesn’t even have it lmao
As I admire Tom and Ben's hunger for adventure and dedication to their project, I can't help but think the true MVP of all of this is Verity. Her selflessness and bravery to go through all the madness Tom comes up with is just amazing. Everyone needs a Verity in their life.
Of course you want to go for a pure uninterrupted run. That's the whole premise of the challenge. But leaving the line and continuing from there is still a win: it's a great achievement in its own right, we don't lose out on content and we will probably/hopefully get another attempt with the same high stakes and excitement.
I enjoy the straight line missions. However, if you’re able to leave the line I have a few questions. Whats the time limit for coming back to the line? How many times can you do that? How is that not an excuse?
@@poopsock6912 Hey thanks for the reply! My take on it is that there is no need to quantify rules. If you leave for a day it's a mediocre win, if you leave for a week it's a worse win. Just do your best, see how the attempt goes and celebrate accordingly. There are no excuses. A pure win is absolutely clear, anything less is... just less, but still worth celebrating. I want Tom and Ben to succeed on a pure run. But I'm also excited that it went wrong again. It means completing this challenge really will mean something when it happens, and it means on the next attempt there is still the thrill and suspense of an unattained goal. And when they complete this run, even if it is with days of interruption, it's still one hell of an adventure and achievement and I'll celebrate the bittersweet win.
It is not possible to imagine how this man has impacted my life. I was going through depression, I was not happy with my life and I did not know if I wanted to continue living the way i did. Then I watched the straight line missions and the series on how not to travel Europe. That man with his amasing dedication has has changed my life for the better. He encouraged me to do what I love and enjoy, to live life for the good things it offers you. Thank you, Tom.
I've definitively made some questionable hiking decisions after watching Tom, and gained new appreciation for just how tiring (and dangerous) it can be when you're pushing through the wilderness with little regard to paths or elevation... but you're right. It DOES do wonders for depression.
As an outdoor instructor I cannot overstate the importance of having a reliable backup for navigation (a map and compass) and the skills required to use them. GPS devices are great. They give accurate, real time information of your location but only when they work. I feel like this is the perfect example of the reliance you guys had on that one piece of technology and the impact it had when it failed you. You guys are very lucky that you came away from that with just tired legs and a sore ankle, let alone the risk that Verity could have gone through to try and help you out if she was more panicked. This is not a bash, just an attempt to try and help you guys learn. Please make sure you take a map and compass in the future, and if required there are plenty of outdoor instructors who run brilliant navigation courses. Well worth it when technology goes to pot. Great video, mad respect for you guys for overcoming that!
Exactly what I was thinking (in addition to the massive overloaded backpacks but lacking backup batteries and map/compass). I don't understand why they didn't use any of smartphone GPS to emergency navigate....
I can't agree more as both an outdoor instructor and member of S&R. Unfortunately, there is no teaching stupid. Oh and technology is not the answer, a sat phone will not help with self reliance, the money one costs would be better spent on a navigation course or even a mountain leaders course. The GPS should be the secondary navigation tool while the map and compass are the primary tools, I have said this to Tom in the past when he was looking to find ways of recording his straight lines. Any Boy scout, Army cadet or Duke of Edinburgh participant would have the knowledge, skills and confidence to march on a bearing using only a compass. But we must forgive Tom because he is doing a service by entertaining millions, so he claims.
@@adif7542 he doesn’t just claim that, its the truth? And he’s not just gambling his life for the sake of views. It’s his passion and if you followed his channel you’d recognise that. He’s not just some random person who has decided to wander off into the Welsh hills with no experience or knowledge whatsoever
@@adif7542 I think you would struggle to stay on the line with only a map and compass. The forest sections for example would be disorienting with no visual clues and a compass won’t tell you if you drift off the line which is inevitable over tough terrain. They are essential for safety though and don’t add much weight.
@@nilsoskar Even after multiple attempts, he has very little experience and knowledge. He's still learning basic things that experienced trekkers already know. While it's fun to see him learn along the way, it's also a bit frustrating too. This adventure would be so much easier if he learned how to use a compass and topographical map and got himself some decent hiking gear instead of cosplaying as a soldier.
@@julianisface Not quite how it works... Some equipment is basically impossible to carry while traversing the terrain (like boats) and that third body also needs a pack full of essentials for IT to survive. Most of the weight of their bags are spent on water, snacks, first aid, extra clothes, and rain cover, which they each have to pack to simply survive. A third member just means a third pack full of essentials, not an extra pair of hands to carry all the gear that the car usually carries. (not to mention a car can carry an exponential amount more than a human)
@@IronwaveStudios Yes, but, hear me out. They give her a gopro too and she documents what she is doing. Where she is staying for the night and her own views on her crazy husband going in a straight line. Asking for directions, waiting in the car while its pooring etc etc. And have that footage intercut with his adventure. I'd love that
Wow. I don't care how "pure" the line is to some others. What I do care about is this unforgettable experience you've put us through since the start of Covid. Thank you so much for this experience and continuing on so we get to see another amazing episode. Cheers!
Tom, I think a real (non-electronic) map and a real compass for backup is a must for your missions. A paper map is light and compact as well as a compass. And a satellite phone of course
If he can take accurate bearings it would be possible to stick stay on line. Enough to get to the next spot and go back if needing the electronic route
Hindsight is 20/20, but these do truly, truly seem like necessities. I think nobody realized how crucial their lives were depending on the positive function of that GPS. I think, on trips like this, you have to ask yourself beforehand about every potentially unreliable item in your bag - "what if we lost it/it broke/it stopped working?" Upon asking the question of the GPS, a map and compass would have been become unquestionable essentials.
While I can ABSOLUTELY understand if this may be the last straight line mission you'll do, I really do hope it isnt. These are an absolute treat and I would love to see more of these. Edit: the biggest shout out again to the woman of the hour Verity, absolute legend.
These straight line videos really are the pinnacle of RUclips but for my own selfish reasons I’d love to see Tom do many more straight line adventures but it’s completely understandable if he just wanted to pack it all in and just call it a day.
after all they had gone through, all due to things totally out of their control, it would have been a sin to not finish the mission for the sake of purity. this mission deserves a finish
Whilst I agree, I do think that it's perhaps going too far to call it a successful attempt. Going away to a hotel and re-couping, whilst it being the right thing to do here for obvious reasons, shouldn't be considered a normal part of the process.
@@Sherwinnicus in that case you might as well say that they can only camp, shit and gather supplies on the line too. It's just impossible and I think so long as they clock off and clock on, it's a fair line
@@ThatGuyFromYorkshire...what? Surely you can appreciate the difference between moving off the line when camping, etc vs having to abandon the mission and sleeping in a hotel due to injury/being caught by farmers/technology failure? Otherwise, why not just sleep in a hotel each night along the mission?
[SPOILERS] Verity is just like a super hero in this episode, love it! Personally don't see an issue if you need to stray off the line in an emergency situation but if you return to the line and carry on, it's not perfect, but it's a win, also that ankle looked way worst than I expected, good effort.
I was really surprised when I saw how bad his ankle was as well given how much marching he’d done on it and how little he complained about it. What a soldier
Love this series, your ordeal reminds me of the idea that "If you've one, you've none" - usually applied to survival situations and the like of starting a fire. If you have one method, and it fails, you now have no methods. Redundancy is key. You've already got a good head for maps etc, and a compass would've been your second method of navigation (at least to the point of having a directional reference), and potentially a map if you had one practical enough to be worth carrying. Same with comms - a sat phone is expensive and extra weight but worth that weight when you really really need it. Also you could look into the higher end of consumer-grade handheld radios. I know all of this is weight on weight but it a good weight spend not to mentally and emotionally drain you at the end of a tough day. And sods law is that if you carry three methods of anyting (comms, fire, shelter) the first will never ever fail you
indeed a sight ranging compass bearing would have meant you could have contnued the line if only to cut the ten miler into prolly 4, yes "if youve one - youve none" is a good rule.
Tom you're just a legend man. And so is verity - although christ I can imagine the absolute shite that could've unfolded if she'd gone to look for you. And ben you're a warrior doing that with your silly brother.
Yup! Should definitly make a "if scenario action plan" with Verity if you don't already have it. Two people with the right gear and some basic hiking experience and common sense can survive for days, even weeks out in the wild even without food. A lone person with no experience and not the right equipment can seriously get lost or hurt themselves and die within a few hours with hyperthermia in the wrong conditions. Now, Verity seem like a badass. But make sure she stays put and instead call for help if you won't return after a set time.
@@Swansniff2 Verity absolutely seems like someone with the right experience. Which also meant she would stay put and not do something stupid. She knew she didn't have the right gear to search for them. I wonder at what point she would've broken and called the cops, because there's definitely a point where you need to do that.
Verity's a keeper, Ben's a soldier and of course Tom is the mastermind. Great video as always. EDIT: After Tom liked my comment I would like to say that I subscribed him before the straight line videos. I love his Geoguessr content and I strongly suggest for all the subscribers to watch them. Thanks.
All of the UK has amazing countryside and nature, it's a shame tourists only go to London. Took some international friends on a nature tour of England, including Cornwall, the peak district lake district etc and they absolutely loved it. They want to see wales, scotland etc next
@@sami2503 I should visit someday, I'm lucky enough to live in northern europe with these kinds of sights, except with taller mountains. But the colors of grass & moss are always different wherever you go, so it's worth it even for someone who lives in a nice rural area. (plus you get bored of your own home area after a while)
Oh my days, that was absolutely insane. The drama of the GPS battery draining turning the trip into a race against time, followed by the eventual sheer horror of being lost and searching for Verity, I almost feel bad enjoying what was clearly a hugely stressful ordeal, but that was an incredible story. Trekking 10 whole miles on a sprained ankle after an already gruelling two and a half days is a seriously impressive feat too -- and Tom's feet looked completely wrecked at the end of it. This series is now in my eyes the greatest content on RUclips, every new adventure brings new twists and stories, and this series takes it to new heights. I am very glad there's more to come!
These straight line mission series OH MY GOD. Genuinely not to overreact but this may be one of the greatest things Ive ever seen on a screen, right from Attempt 1, Episode 1. Its just all so perfect, the square gopro footage, the idea behind it all, the engaging commentary throughout, the naturally awesome stories that come from it and that bloody amazing music that you composed! I know you say you'll discuss the purity of a straight line mission when you have to rejoin the line midway through, but all I care about is that this is the most pure piece of brilliance I have ever seen on RUclips. Nobody will top this channel over the past couple of years, because there is just a level of purity to the whole production that I dont think is even possible to replicate by anyone else.
I'd love to see more "Verity cam" in future videos. I think about the things she must go through for all of this, would've been great to see it in the Norway videos that's for sure.
The fact that you're willing to show us your partial failures makes the moments you succeed that much more sweet and believable. You could edit things to make it seem you didn't make any mistakes, but honestly those are some of the best parts.
Petition to get Verity’s take on it all!! Amazing video - I’m completely gripped and look forward to every episode. You’re a fantastic storyteller, Tom. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Yes, very much wondering what she thought for the entirety of this day, from meeting them at the river to Tom asking her to meet them on the line, to her reading a book in the car.
“Armed with 36 AA batteries…” You literally could not take fewer chances! What an absolute disaster of a day, I can only imagine how frustrated you were mate, I’d be permanently broken. But seeing you drive back to where you left the line and hear you’d over-prepared yourselves with batteries gave me a rush of satisfaction and hope, to know this wasn’t going to be the end for you both. In spite of the frustration you guys have endured, this is still fantastic content and all my respect to you and the gang for staying positive to go back into the wild of Wales and carry on! Cannot wait for Part 4!
I think the next trip you plan needs to be for verity and a nice calming week in the Med for her, without any hiking or brambles. She's an absolute treasure.
"As the rainbow's flawless frame grew bolder, so did our hopefull shadows who flung themselves westward towards the heartening horizon" 😳 are we just gonna pretend that this isn't top tier narration?
Right !! Let's not pretend we only watch Tom's videos to see guys busting through hedges. It's the quality, style and literary level of the narration that seals the deal.
[SPOILER] shame about the missing footage but I think I'm probably not alone in saying that I'm happy not to watch you guys go through that emotional turmoil, some things shouldn't really be up for entertainment purposes. Glad everyone was OK!
Just remember if anyone complains about you and Ben going off line, they're doing so behind the comfort of their computer. Serious strength, determination and will power to continue! Massive respect! This is by far the greatest series on anything!
Literally, other people on RUclips are trying straight line challenges and give up on the first day just from the physical exhaustion. And we have people complaining about this being a failure because of an unforeseeable situation.
Somehow these missions allways "fail" in the planing stages, never on the trip itself: #1 Not enough food to continue #2 Not enough medication taken by Greg #3 Not enough of a stealthy campsite #4 Not enough satelite phone However the thing that matters for us viewers is the entertainment. And entertainment this is! Also no shame in Sleeping somewhere else, as long as you admit it. The thing people didn't like about Bear Grills doing it was that he stood there the next morning saying: "Oh mate a had a bad sleep, terribly cold!"
@@Tsharkeye Caught by farmer, unpassable area that was not on the maps, injury, some dogs or aggrsive livestock that don't allow a passing, unforseen changes in weather usw.
I imagine that it'll end up being pretty easy for someone other than Greg to complete the challenge once they've got enough knowledge of what not to do.
Best thing that ever happened to me, youtube-wise, was having the algorithm recommend me the original mission's first episode in what feels like a lifetime ago now. I think that by following all of the missions since, we really get the appreciate this episode's struggles much more. It's like Tom has become a character in a long, deeply loved, fictional series now.
Lol I found this channel the exact same way. I actually got annoyed at how much the algorithm was suggesting I watch that first mission episode until I finally caved. And I’m so damn glad I did!
Same same! God bless the algorithm. These straight (very much hetero) line mission videos are the main reason I'm still watching RUclips these days. I've watched a few other RUclipsrs try and copy this format, but none of them comes even close to mr Geowizard himself!
You both made the right choice. Just remember you’re doing this mission for yourself, sometimes things happen that are above us and you just have to adapt to the circumstances. You don’t need to justify yourselves, seeing the mental and physical beating you’ve taken is a credit to your determination. Anyone who says otherwise probably wouldn’t even last a day doing this. Fantastic episode, best one yet!!
at the end of the day its his challenge with his rules. He did everything to prevent leaving the line, but if he has to, he has to. And if he wants to complete it later than so be it
Tom: OMG I hope Verity is safe and well Verity: This book is awesome Jokes aside, another marvelous episode directed by Tom. Glad to see everyone is safe at the end cuz that footage in the dark scared me a bit. Lots of love for Tom, Ben and Verity.
"As the rainbow's flawless frame grew bolder, so did our hopeful shadows, who flung themselves westward toward the heartening horizon, and the calm waters of the reservoir." This is narrated in such a beautifully literary way
Man. If this is the last straight line mission (for good reason) I would love to see a more relaxed and varied series like How Not to Travel Europe. It was nice seeing you guys having so much fun hitchhiking and doing odd jobs. If we ever get something new like that it’d be a nice refreshing change from the torture that is straight line missions.
It’s also my favorite series on Youtubr, the different scenes, the people you meet and help you, the music. Watched it several times and still cheers me up everytime!
@@beastysped3270 If you like that style of travel videos, you might also enjoy the videos by "Bald and Bankrupt", for example the one called "The Last House In The Chernobyl Village". :)
3:45 "As the rainbow's flawless frame grew bolder, So did our hopeful shadows, Who flung themselves Westward, Towards the heartening horizon, And the calm waters of the resevoir"
He speaks so poetically, it’s a beautiful thing to behold. Almost brings a tear to your eye and keeps you engaged, engrossed and enthralled the entire time! Very much punctuates the storytelling between all the action.
The thing is, they did have extra batteries which unfortunately didn’t work well. They went through 6 batteries and Verity had extras for when they would meet up. I think having the one GPS is fine (if it was actually the batteries being at fault and not the GPS draining the batteries at an abnormal quantity). Map and compass would be good but they would most certainly get far away from the line than intended too.
@@maximosjuan1 The map and compass isn't about sticking to the line and finishing the mission. It's about staying safe and not getting hopelessly lost in the woods in the dark in the middle of nowhere when electronics fail you. I love good ol' Tom, but it's halfway suicidal to go into the wilderness without these things.
@@maximosjuan1 I guess another way to have backup batteries is to make sure they are from different sources. Different packs from different stores from different brands. Only known in hindsight, but now it's something I'll think about in the future. It did make me wonder if it would show anything if tested in advance (voltage level as seen when supposedly fresh but under a little bit of load, just to make sure they are fresh).
@@PerMortensen - Exactly this! A lot of commenters don't seem to understand that these things are for survival, not just for line-following, and so suggest we are being unreasonable in suggesting them.
"hey guys verity here, no clue where the boy's are, they lost in the woods, but he said i should stay here, so lets do a book reading" back to Tom (if the go pro didnt die) "AAAAAARGHGHGHGHGHHGHGHGHGHOEUHPHPOUSGHUGSHUGOIHHGSIOIHPOGS we are going the wrong way, what if something happend to verity!!!!!! ARGSYGAGYGAFIGIUFAGUFHUF back to V: "and fordo set of to the mordor, ring in hand" and so on and so forth
Things always go wrong when on expedition. The feeling of being lost is something not may experience in todays world but it is all consuming if you don't know better. And generally that feeling keeps you safe or drives you dangerously on. The more you do this stuff the more your kit becomes robust. I think it's perfectly ok to go back and complete a challenge. On the next challenge you'll be a little more prepared and wiser. Good job honestly.
goddamn. i thought i was stressed last episode, but i can't even imagine what you went through this one. wandering around in a dense forest, worried about your girlfriend, in the pitch black? i would have just sat under a tree and cried. props to you for getting through that, i think most people would have called it quits but you just always find the strength to pull through. amazing.
I just can't believe how calm and not bothered Verity is going through this. I'm pretty sure not many people would be so nice and accepting of the situation!
32:17 what, without a compass? Just why? I've done many hikes in my time, and, while relying on gps for the most part, always had a detailed map and a compass. You just can't ditch them when you're kilometers or even tens of kilometers away from any civilization
Yeah I can’t believe that they had no backup to hand for the GPS, the battery thing might have been unforeseen but surely there was always a chance they drop the GPS into a river or step on it or something?
@@etymology3 Literally taking 2 minutes to download the area offline on any old smartphone with a free app like maps.me would’ve saved so much of the hassle. I love these videos, but the lack of preparedness makes me cringe at times. The battery issue was unforeseen, but did they not consider they could’ve just lost the GPS and then they’d be in trouble?
@@mpepp9 Wales 1: learning not to burn the food. Wales 2: learning that Jelly Babies and couscous is not a nutritionally complete breakfast, and to wear gloves. Norway: learning not to walk into peat bogs. Scotland: learning to move camp after being detected. Wales 3: learning to bring backups for critical equipment. soon he will have learned everything and be ready to tackle a straight line mission across the world.
Still a massive victory mate! Ive just finished reading Ed Staffords book when he walked the length of the Amazon. He often, marked his gps position, hopped on a boat which might be 2/3 DAYS out of his way to restock, get the same boat back, walk back the wrong way to the original gps mark and carry on. The only rules are the ones we set in our own head. 👍🏼
Most important thing is getting one completed, then the 2nd attempt will be more relaxed and even more planned after the experience of all the things going wrong.
It is simply incredible to see how these missions represent life: you can go up and down, lose your way and take the most unpredicted turns. But it'll almost always turn out ok. Thanks for making these Tom! I love it!
I'm not going to lie, after seeing what you and Ben have been through on this trip, I'm quite worried about how the viewer who contacted you before this mission fared
Eventually the algorithm will present you with the video that they uploaded. They made an effort with their video, for sure.... but.....well. Why eat McD's when you have the prime cuts from fully massaged Japanese cow in your pantry?
Tom, it always seems like you're very, very well prepared for these missions. Everything planned out. Alternative camps planned on Verity's GPS etc. Very safe. However, I really cannot believe you didn't bring a compass with you. That's insane! You can get compasses the size of a 10p coin. They've saved a countless number of lives. That's possibly one of the biggest oversights I've ever seen. You had a right ordeal clearly but that could have been even worse. I think sticking to the paths was the smart choice. With a compass you could have made the right turns. I'm glad it worked out but man... I dread to think what could've happened if things went differently. If you rolled your ankle and couldn't walk, pitched black, splitting up... Close one. Props to Verity for staying calm and not going looking for yous. That takes a lot.
A compass would be so incredibly ideal. Since this is a straight-line mission, there isn't anything else to do except grab the magnetic bearing and stay on it. I know there is a minor shifting constantly, but even with the GPS, they could have immediately started powering it off and only using it to reference every hour or so. I was actually so surprised when I found out they didn't have one.
@@JohnyG29 - Well, you're being Mr Idiotic. Knowing the absolute basics of outdoor survival isn't about claiming to be 'Mr Perfect'. Anyone with even the remotest experience in orienteering, scouts or the military would know that a compass is an absolutely essential piece of kit. Especially because there are tiny ones that just slip over your watchband strap.
you are an incredible storyteller, tom. the tension built through the editing is masterful. seriously, these videos are award worthy. thank you for making them.
I’ve been having one of the worst weeks in my life and this video appeared. I think the only thing that could take me away from my situation. Thank you from the bottom of my heart
I find it more impressive that you push through it all with a messed up foot, then staying 100% pure to the line. Great series as always, i still belive your "How NOT to travel Europe" series was the best series you ever did, anyone reading this should go watch it, there is more than just hills and brambles to look at.
He really should do a Europe tour again as soon as the situation allows it, those videos were fucking amazing lol it's by far the best content on the channel
The ‘How not to travel Europe’ videos were so wholesome and really showed how nice people can be to random strangers, willing to help and even participate in fun challenges! It was also a great showcase of how different cultures and nationalities interact with each other. The series was such an inspiration to me. I was ready to plan my own backpacking trip a year later but then of course the pandemic hit. I really hope Tom and Greg will be able to make another series together. They play off each other so well and you can really feel the genuineness of their friendship. It’s the best content on RUclips by FAR.
as soon as things get back to whatever semblance of "normal" in terms of unrestricted and safe travel... would love a how not to travel europe part 2 -- my favorite series!
Though it does amuse me to imagine that at least one of those people who died in a peat bog thousands of years ago did so attempting a ye olde straight line quest.
@@SketchyMagpie A straight line mission accross Wales would have been a lot harder then as the Welsh had the whole Island! Although there was no such thing as a country back then.
love these vidoes but as a note on purity of line, maybe as well as a gold, silver etc rating on the straightness there should be a purity grade too, level 1 being do not leave the area of the platinum run, ever. then level 2 being allowed to move around once at a camp but no more than say a silver run width from the line or some other arbitrary metric. leaving for the night and returning is a level 4 or something and a segmented run is level 5, this allows anyone to take a shot at it but there are just 2 metrics to measure the validity of a run by. platinum, 1 being the most difficult and filtering down to a bronze, 5 run.
Have you ever considered that your partner for the trip could not follow the line exactly and you only use your path? What I mean by this is that they walk with you most of the way, but any time you have a situation, they can leave the line to scout around without leaving your eyesight (or at the very least shouting distance) to advise you on the best way to navigate, but without affecting the challenge. For example, if you have a river, they could maybe walk 100m up stream to get to a safer place to cross, walk back along the other side and see a better angle, and then maybe also give you a helping hand from the other side whilst they themselves aren't in as much danger. They could also drag the boat round the riverbank like Verity did in this episode (although the line would need to be close enough to the river to stop you being out of reach in an emergency), and then Verity wouldn't need to trek through as many forests to help you out. Also, if you were in a valley, they could walk to the top of a hill to get phone signal and/or get a better viewpoint in the situation you were in at the end (without spoiling the video). Also, I think this highlights a need for a map more than anything else (even a satellite phone) for the area you're going to rather than relying on technology that can so easily fail.
My gosh, I could feel your stress watching this. The idea of getting lost in the dark with no signal and not knowing where Verity was is so scary, and when I saw the state of your legs I audibly gasped. So much respect for soldiering on whether you left the line or not, either way this series is one of the most entertaining on youtube right now and I'm looking forward to the next episode!
Verity just sat reading a book while the panic ensues is so funny among all the drama. Damn I thought this couldn't get scarier than the farmer ordeal but that was frightening. Glad you were all ok
I love these videos, but not gonna lie I've always been a little frustrated with the fact that you didnt have a satellite phone. After everything that happened in this episode I think itd be a good idea to get a backup gps system as well, its very possible for your gps to fail in a way that cant be fixed with extra batteries. At the very least you should bring a map and compass, even with a backup gps its good to have around.
Honestly I 100% agree, I absolutely love these videos but with a bit better planning and thinking the success could be better. This time satellite phones, a backup gps and batteries would have really helped. On the Scotland mission for example having these big fires was kind of risky, too risky to be exact and trusting the farmer was really not a great idea, him calling the police was to be expected. Maybe he could’ve been paid of for example but they didn’t even try that
Good point, but Tom has to draw a line (pun intended) where to stop with the backups. After all you probably can’t do the mission with two sets of boots or a second tent. Even little things as more batteries, a second gps or a compass take valuable space and weight on these missions. And it’s even less appealing with Verity being able to help them out every now and then. But I 100% agree that a gps phone should be a necessity for future missions!
Yea definitely. Tom can be meticulously detailed at times but not when he has to consider his safety and the potential problems that can occur on a trip like this. For someone who has done this so many times, it's frustrating that Tom didn't appreciate the need to accommodate for the worst possible situations. It's easy to think it's rotten luck when you're in that position but it's also incredible luck that he wasn't even more injured/hurt and that he found Verity sitting in her car reading instead of any worse outcome. I only say all this as a long-time fan and someone who cares about Tom and his goals. I'm not trying to pile on him or anything and I totally understand his reasoning with a lot of things. But I hope he learns from this trip like he has with the previous ones.
@@Why-yz6hs planning seems a bit too bare bones. And I agree a lot more thought is needed when dealing with people or dangerous situations (not moving when first spotted camping in Scotland; filming themselves breaking the law in a rail yard and putting it online).
Being turned around (in the dark) on paths in a relatively small area is so incredibly frustrating. It's compounded by the knowledge that, without a doubt, you are within a couple miles where you're trying to get to, but it seems like you've somehow been teleported to another dimension and no matter what you do, you get further and further from where you want to be. It takes a toll on your mind for sure. Just watching the last part of this video game me flashbacks to several times I've been there. Good on you Ben for being the voice of reason I wish I had had so many times.
I do worry sometimes about the lack of redundancy on these missions... I know and fully accept that you can't carry everything you might need, but, a spare GPS and satellite phone would be must haves for me, your GPS is the lifeblood of the mission, that goes down and your fucked... Its technology at the end of the day and we all know it fails us when we need it most! The other solution would be a GPS that doesn't rely on AA batteries but has a rechargeable battery, then you can just carry known and tested Li-ion powercells Same with a satellite phone. Imagine that your sprained ankle was a break, and you were at the most remote part of the trip, not having an effective means for extraction and call for help is really dangerous... Redundancy is something that shouldn't be overlooked Also Verity is a superhero!
I was thinking the GPS is malfunctioning, not the batteries, draining to much electricity. As redundacy to the GPS tracker you could also just use a Smartphone with some locally stored maps. So not Google Maps or anything like that.
The other benefit of a satellite phone is that it can be used for more minor situations and semi-emergencies as well as just catastrophic ones. Getting lost or a minor injury, without regular mobile network coverage, means a satellite phone can be used for call Verity for assistance. But if you only have a regular mobile phone, and low network coverage, then all you can do is call 999 and then the emergency call will be prioritised across any available network coverage (if it even connects at all). So it forces you to either inconvenience 999 and emergency services with a minor matter, or to go without any assistance whatsoever.
@@LHyoutube That’s a good tip with the emergency call, even if it says no service and it’s an emergency you’re right it’ll connect you in any way possible, would suck if somebody seen no service and didn’t even try to call.
Absolutely in love with this series! In complete seriousness, you should really try a straight line mission across mainland Orkney 🏴. Totally doable but with loads of challenges 🤩
After everything you guys had to endure in this episode... That iconic theme song playing as you described your next steps at the end.... Words can't describe that feeling. I love this so much.
The best series in ages, it hurts waiting a week you know. I can't think of anything that compares every week. Buy a satellite phone yesterday, and always have non digital navigation available in future. I'm glad you made it through and I'm sure your brother will never let you forget it.
@@bgezal - They aren't dirt cheap, but nor are they prohibitively expensive. But even if they were, they are still essential for this kind of situation, plus although he likely isn't making millions of dollars from these videos, he is certainly making enough to afford a satellite phone.
She was reading a book 😂. That made my day. Did you find out what killed the batteries so quickly? I know if there's water near them it could drain them faster.
It's been a long time since I've been totally exhausted from adventurous hikes, since being so spent that I feel like I have to throw up, spraining ankles, being cold and totally rain soaked, tumbling halfway down a ravine and more stupid stuff. But at those moments I felt truly alive and these videos bring that back, so thank you ever so much for that! Truly a unique series. 🙏
I don't know if you've used those batteries before on your straight line challenges but those Duracell Plus batteries are Alkaline batteries, Not the NiMH or Lithium batteries that the website recommends at 12:18 . Looking up the differences between Alkaline and Lithium - Lithium batteries output approximately the same voltage throughout their usage whereas with voltage of Alkaline batteries decrease as you use them meaning that they can't output the required voltage to keep the GPS alive for the entire time. Lithium batteries also generally last significantly longer than Alkaline batteries (even when used in devices that require a very low voltage output). Tl;dr You unfortunately bought the wrong kind of batteries.
I'm not gonna put in the details to verify everything but yes alkaline batteries decrease voltage on a much quicker steadier curve where nickle metal hydride and lithium ion tend to keep pretty close to their voltage until close to dieing. Meaning Alkaline are great for things like old flash lights (cause cheap and disposable) but pretty awful for things that require a certain voltage like electronics. Worst yet if those alkaline batteries are cold or old you put yourself way down on that voltage graph just to start and you could definitely end up with a situation exactly like this... Oof
I have used those Duracell batteries on every single mission I’ve done and they have always lasted over a day, even in freezing and wet conditions. Obviously I won’t be using them again, but you can see why I was comfortable with picking them!
try plotting the route using garmin for the gps then export the gpx to strava or komoot on a phone as a backup. strava seems better then my garmin for navigation in the mountains in bad weather, although the physical picture map overlay doesnt load with no phone signal you can still follow the pre planned blue line route
This episode was one problem away from being an actual disaster. Imagine if the cell service wasn't even intermittently available or if you got totally lost in the darkness while already being disoriented. It seems that every straight line mission pushes the luck a bit further. 😅 What comes to the validity of the run, imo this still counts. Like you said, it is somewhat comparable to collecting firewood or pooping out of sight. Maybe there should be a hardcore mode where you actually have to stay on the line the whole time between the start and the finish. I'm anxiously waiting for the next episode.
Sit your ass down and sleep till day,not like there is any danger in the whales countryside and they got plenty of gear.Then you can go any direction 5 minutes and end up in someone's backyard lmao.Not like you can get lost in the wilderness in wales.
@@controlledsingularity8084 Yup, but they had Verity to think about also - they would not have known she was comfy and calm reading a book. They'd probably have search helicopters waking them up in the wee hours also.
youre desparation to reach verity before she could worry enough to set out herself brought a tear to my eye, youre very lucky to have her! what amazing support.
![Can we complete this extraordinary straight line mission? [DAY 4: Come Here Coast]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QkLDThED4T4/mqdefault.jpg)
![Can we complete this extraordinary straight line mission? [DAY 4: Come Here Coast]](/img/tr.png)
![Introducing the "No Roads Mission" ..a very urban adventure [PART 1]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/pDU9BOtX80A/mqdefault.jpg)
*SPOILERS*
Fully agree that I should have brought a satellite phone on this trip, or at least for this day. It’s so painfully obvious looking back. A compass would have also been useful in finding Verity, but irrelevant in continuing to navigate the line. Those GPS systems are incredibly reliable and can last for years. Im now pretty sure it was in fact a faulty pack of Duracell batteries that caused the issue. I mean are you kidding me? Anyway, fully understand your frustrations, but I just never planned for such an eventuality, and also pack weight is so critical on these trips. Thanks for all the love, see you all for episode #4. It should be ready by next Tuesday (18th) but I will confirm on a community post.
You did what was rational, people can't hate much for that
I wonder if the extra weight of a satellite phone and a spare GPS system would have allowed the farmer to catch us on day 2?
Get in!! I worried there wasnt gonna be an episode 4 but when i saw the clips from 'next week...'
The things you do for us man, craaaazy 👏🙏
Can you not navigate by stars yet?
thanks for producing such an epic and exhilarating series, and for going through what you and Ben did to get it out here. hindsight is 20/20 and if you could i’m sure you would take a million things to assist you. in all honesty, i’m not fussed in the slightest how pure the line is, i’m here to support one of my favourite youtubers and entertainers. thanks Tom, another fantastic episode.
Verity is a saint.
She's a team player
i swear, if this isn't worth marrying her for, i don't know what is
He needs to put a ring on her 😂
She is such a hero
Tom is such a lucky man. She's always down for his mad missions
Tom: This is the worst day of my life, my ankle is killing me, and i'm worried that my girlfriend is lost in the woods looking for me and she might be hurt
Meanwhile Verity: Nice book
ha, thats what i thought when i heard him say that she was reading a book
Honestly he's very lucky to have a gf and a brother who are willing to support him to this extent.
She couldn't survive the stress of being his girlfriend if she reacted any other way 🤣
Which was absolutely the right move on Verity's part. Stay where you're supposed to be, and if they never show up get a search party out first thing in the morning. Wandering around in the dark wouldn't help anyone. I feel bad for Tom, though, sounds like he went through hell.
@@Pebphiz Yup everyone knows you stay in the same place when you get lost or you can go in circles around the people searching for you & keep missing them. Obviously under certain circumstances this could change but..
What an absolute legend Verity is, dragting herself through forests and sitting alone in the dark to help you two out. Enormous shoutout to her!
She certainly is. She's very happy to help and be a part of these missions, she just doesn't want to appear on camera too much.
Verity really is the true hero in all of Tom's videos. Sorry, Tom! :D
Verity is amazing! ❤️❤️
In this episode Verity felt like a true mother picking her kids up from scout camp because boys are tired and want to go home lol
GeoWizard: I'm freaking out, man!
Verity: This book is quite riveting.
Ben: I have no brother.
Verity is the heart of all these missions fr. She's so calm and reliable and every time Tom says he can see Verity in these mission videos, I always get so reassured. Like, we're making it out of this one alive and safe, because Verity's here now.
Huge shoutout to Verity: the woman of the hour for making it all come together.
Verity is honestly MVP
exactly
We all need a Verity in our lives!
This series is so good. I thought the farmer was bad but this is a different level of intense. This video shows how dangerous this can be and why you should not do this alone or without any experience
Verf get back to Hill Giants
Verf dont you have giants to kill?
Hope ur grinding for totem pieces while watching this! Need more of my fav osrs content :*
and why you shouldn't do this without a satellite phone.
Edit: satellite, not GPS 🤦♂️ but you get the point.
or a map and compass
This whole episode must be what Tom's fever dreams are like: reservoir crossing, sprained ankle, being "hot" with farmers, stream fordings, wet feet, PEAT BOGS, no phone signal, GPS breaking down, worried about Verity, leaving the line, no footage.
Just ridiculous.
the idea that he has dreams about doing straight line missions is hilarious yet probably true
@@OMGitsacrazybadger Instead of the classical nightmare where you're trying to run but you can't, Ben is trying to turn left or right on roads but he can't, he just keeps going in straight lines forever
'Just going to check I'm recording... fuck'
“As the rainbow’s flawless frame grew bolder, so did our hopeful shadows, who flung themselves westward toward the heartening horizon and the calm waters of the reservoir.”
- Thomas Davies, Wizard of Geography
He just seemingly comes up with these beautiful poems
What a wordsmith...
Tom's writing skills almost match his geography skills!
3:41, for those who want the timestamp
Tom: I was worried Verity would be in a flap, come searching for us and get lost or injured.
Verity: I'll read another chapter.
@@sohotimhot7975 I can't tell if you're advertising an onlyfans or a k-pop concert, but I think you should really review your tactics and have a CAT scan while you're at it
Verity is the real MVP
Her not being calm and composed could have made this SO MUCH worse than anything the GPS could ever do...but she was and she...let's just say smiled...all the way through it like it's nothing.
Women : Making men do wild shi7 but also giving them reason to survive said shi7 since 1Million BC
@@YeeSoest Exactly what my comment was going to be. What an absolute saint she is!
@@Salien1999 you need a CAT scan for replying to a bot lmao
Verity is the absolute chad of these straight line missions. 100% a keeper Tom!
Relaxing with a book instead of panicking hysterically and running in every direction is definitely a real Stacy move, ngl.
@z̷o̷n̷a̷ h̷o̷r̷n̷y̷🔥🤤 what the fuck is this
She is awesome!
Verity shows the importance of the person giving support to the line mission
@@Tenebis1 Commercial spam, report it. I did.
* BRO PLEASE READ THIS * sorry to spam but I rolled my ankle on a multi-day hike similar to yours probably circa 10 years ago or more now. Same bruising (which I later learned were split capillaries leaking blood, lovely!) and swelling you had, and same mentality - tried walking on it and 'it feels ok so I'll just go steady on it' . Please please please see a physio therapist as soon as you can if you haven't already! I didn’t take it seriously when it happened to me and now it’s a massive problem in my life as an experienced and regular climber. That ankle now almost prefers to be out of joint than in, it’s close to being debilitating on big treks. It will roll again of its own accord with no pain or swelling, but once it goes it keeps rolling without warning even on flat footing. I have to bind my whole lower leg up even for steady hikes, and can only wear high lacing boots for treks and even then it’ll still pop out and back in again sporadically and I have zero confidence on it while hiking. Apologies for the essay but it made me wince watching you leap around on yours. Please get it looked at bro 🙏
I think hes fine now this was recorded a few months ago
@@skedyt Yeah but what this guy is saying is it could still be a problem for life
Sounds like torn ligaments not just a rolled ankle
Yes exactly! as a physio please go see a profesional, torn/sprained ligaments heal very slowly (as in it takes months) and they might not even be painful after a period of rest despite still being damaged. There are things you can do to improve healing and increase stability.
I had a pretty badly sprained ankle years ago and despite being put in a cast streight away for 2 weeks and binding it for a while afterwards it will still sometimes roll on flat ground and you can actually palpate where the scar tissue is on the ligaments
Man this was recorded ages ago. Why you tripping so hard, soft af
Tom, the majority of your audience doesn't care about the "purity" of the mission. We just love the adventure, we love what you do! Always stay safe and thank you for the lovely videos, mate!
exactly how I feel, he tries his best and there is only so much you can do at some points.
@@shyce7 as long as he survives, we're happy😂
he doesn't do it for us, he strives for his own pleasure to achieve purity, what ever he says its painfully obvious hes an adventurer
"Purity" is everything to the straight line pioneer
@Tyler i think dolphines is more likely
This series could be the best thing I've EVER seen, honestly this had me more on the edge of my seat than any tv show i've ever watched. The fact you kept going, the editing, the music, everything is just flawless, seriously. I can't thank you enough for making these, like every time you release an episode it makes my WEEK. incredible job mate
You said it mate. I struggle to keep attentive for anything more than 10 mins.. these have me hoookedddd!!! What I would give to join on these adventures is crazy! I would absolutely kill to join one of these adventures! I am currently on my own adventure in Egypt right now! But returning to England end of this month! I am definitely planning to go adventuring within the UK itself when I’m home. Definitely would pay to be up to attempt something of this nature as well! 😁😁
Agreeeee
100% agree.
with all respect I think even Tom might say you are over exaggerating
Brave Dave brought me to this channel. Just after the first straight line attempt of Wales.
Go watch Brave Dave's big fat train hop. Its another brilliant watch.
The music just makes this series so much better, it fits the mission perfectly. Everything about this series is just so authentic, from the music to the idea to the raw storytelling. Brilliant as ever mate
it’s even cooler because he made the music lol
Yesss the music along with that square aspect ratio gives it a very distinct aesthetic
Better, but what makes the series the best, apart from being something prototype, is Tom's narration through the journey
tom's music composition is amazing
The music makes me feel like I'm on a majestic video game journey.
Imagine if it hadn't been Verity at the end, but instead the "oiii!" farmer back out on the hunt again..
Truly great channel and series, really entertaining to watch..! Big thrill and awesome storytelling/editing with it too
"I told you you'd be sorry!"
It would have been a great cliffhanger in a Doctor Who episode.
@@Salien1999 🤣😂🤣
Some say he is still on the hunt to this day...
LOL!!
Never let Verity go, and you better treat her amazingly outside of these missions! What a freaking legend!
He needs to put a ring on it!
@@donniev8181 he did! straight line mission down the aisle completed last summer
@@AnthonyHoul This is a perfect comment
I am geniunely lost for words... I thought the farmer encounter was an absolute nightmare, but this episode got me joyous, anxious, excited and scared at the same time, the last minutes actually made me tear up to be honest. This mission has been the cruelest of all so far, you two are absolute legends, Verity an absolute saint!
I read this comment wrong and I thought you were saying you were the farmer
Purple ankle, angry farmers, failing gps, failing gopro, this man cannot be stopped unless theres literally no other option. The dedication is crazy man 👏
and pete bogs!
This series is more engaging and tense than anything Netflix has to offer. It really is fantastic. I'm so engrossed I've just signed up to the Patreon.
Absolutely, i mean, this is the survivorman bear grills footage we were always watching when we were young, but this madlad is doing it for real
It's fantastic, but yall mfs need to look closer on Netflix. Some incredible content right on the front page that you've never even seen.
Suggestions?
I agree that this is great but you gotta actually each stuff on Netflix my guy. There’s so much greatness there and makes you sound like someone who doesn’t even have it lmao
If you want to hear a man winge about a sprained ankle the whole trip.
As I admire Tom and Ben's hunger for adventure and dedication to their project, I can't help but think the true MVP of all of this is Verity. Her selflessness and bravery to go through all the madness Tom comes up with is just amazing. Everyone needs a Verity in their life.
these straight line series are true blessings
Nice to see you here
Nice to see you have good taste Joe
It's like everyone watches these
That is the ugliest pepe I have ever seen.
agreed
"Armed with 36 AA batteries" actually made me tear up somehow, and I'm not ashamed of it.
I know! It's almost like he's preparing for a western shootout at the end! Quality!
@@antsmoveaway2087 i can imagine him powering through those forests with a bandolier full of AA's and a pistol holster with the gps in haha
This time, they're energizers, because they keep going and going and...
38:06 I feel like there's been "probably the worst thing I've ever been through" in each episode in this series.
Not even clickbait, things just keep getting worse!
Of course you want to go for a pure uninterrupted run. That's the whole premise of the challenge. But leaving the line and continuing from there is still a win: it's a great achievement in its own right, we don't lose out on content and we will probably/hopefully get another attempt with the same high stakes and excitement.
I enjoy the straight line missions. However, if you’re able to leave the line I have a few questions. Whats the time limit for coming back to the line? How many times can you do that? How is that not an excuse?
@@poopsock6912 Hey thanks for the reply!
My take on it is that there is no need to quantify rules. If you leave for a day it's a mediocre win, if you leave for a week it's a worse win. Just do your best, see how the attempt goes and celebrate accordingly. There are no excuses. A pure win is absolutely clear, anything less is... just less, but still worth celebrating.
I want Tom and Ben to succeed on a pure run. But I'm also excited that it went wrong again. It means completing this challenge really will mean something when it happens, and it means on the next attempt there is still the thrill and suspense of an unattained goal.
And when they complete this run, even if it is with days of interruption, it's still one hell of an adventure and achievement and I'll celebrate the bittersweet win.
@@_Thorondor Ok thank you
@@_Thorondor You said it all mate
@@bismuth6558 thanks
It is not possible to imagine how this man has impacted my life. I was going through depression, I was not happy with my life and I did not know if I wanted to continue living the way i did. Then I watched the straight line missions and the series on how not to travel Europe. That man with his amasing dedication has has changed my life for the better. He encouraged me to do what I love and enjoy, to live life for the good things it offers you. Thank you, Tom.
xqcl
I've definitively made some questionable hiking decisions after watching Tom, and gained new appreciation for just how tiring (and dangerous) it can be when you're pushing through the wilderness with little regard to paths or elevation... but you're right. It DOES do wonders for depression.
Wow what a message.
@@sosexyimsexy134 how VILE of you to just spam your pathetic account underneath this comment!
@@steviemac2681 Harald is a sex tourist
As an outdoor instructor I cannot overstate the importance of having a reliable backup for navigation (a map and compass) and the skills required to use them. GPS devices are great. They give accurate, real time information of your location but only when they work. I feel like this is the perfect example of the reliance you guys had on that one piece of technology and the impact it had when it failed you. You guys are very lucky that you came away from that with just tired legs and a sore ankle, let alone the risk that Verity could have gone through to try and help you out if she was more panicked. This is not a bash, just an attempt to try and help you guys learn. Please make sure you take a map and compass in the future, and if required there are plenty of outdoor instructors who run brilliant navigation courses. Well worth it when technology goes to pot. Great video, mad respect for you guys for overcoming that!
Exactly what I was thinking (in addition to the massive overloaded backpacks but lacking backup batteries and map/compass). I don't understand why they didn't use any of smartphone GPS to emergency navigate....
I can't agree more as both an outdoor instructor and member of S&R. Unfortunately, there is no teaching stupid. Oh and technology is not the answer, a sat phone will not help with self reliance, the money one costs would be better spent on a navigation course or even a mountain leaders course. The GPS should be the secondary navigation tool while the map and compass are the primary tools, I have said this to Tom in the past when he was looking to find ways of recording his straight lines. Any Boy scout, Army cadet or Duke of Edinburgh participant would have the knowledge, skills and confidence to march on a bearing using only a compass. But we must forgive Tom because he is doing a service by entertaining millions, so he claims.
@@adif7542 he doesn’t just claim that, its the truth? And he’s not just gambling his life for the sake of views. It’s his passion and if you followed his channel you’d recognise that. He’s not just some random person who has decided to wander off into the Welsh hills with no experience or knowledge whatsoever
@@adif7542 I think you would struggle to stay on the line with only a map and compass. The forest sections for example would be disorienting with no visual clues and a compass won’t tell you if you drift off the line which is inevitable over tough terrain. They are essential for safety though and don’t add much weight.
@@nilsoskar Even after multiple attempts, he has very little experience and knowledge. He's still learning basic things that experienced trekkers already know. While it's fun to see him learn along the way, it's also a bit frustrating too. This adventure would be so much easier if he learned how to use a compass and topographical map and got himself some decent hiking gear instead of cosplaying as a soldier.
I wanna see you, ben, greg and verity doing a straight line mission together. That would be fun to watch.
Well, they would need to Veritys then. One to do the mission and one to take the role of the Verity who gives supplies.
@@vigilantcosmicpenguin8721 do it without supply drops. More bodies to carry shared equipment would make it doable
@@julianisface Not quite how it works... Some equipment is basically impossible to carry while traversing the terrain (like boats) and that third body also needs a pack full of essentials for IT to survive. Most of the weight of their bags are spent on water, snacks, first aid, extra clothes, and rain cover, which they each have to pack to simply survive. A third member just means a third pack full of essentials, not an extra pair of hands to carry all the gear that the car usually carries. (not to mention a car can carry an exponential amount more than a human)
@@IronwaveStudios Yes, but, hear me out. They give her a gopro too and she documents what she is doing. Where she is staying for the night and her own views on her crazy husband going in a straight line. Asking for directions, waiting in the car while its pooring etc etc. And have that footage intercut with his adventure. I'd love that
@@ideljenny Oh I see, yeah that would be cool to see. She seems like an awesome girl, would be cool to see more of her on these escapades.
Wow. I don't care how "pure" the line is to some others. What I do care about is this unforgettable experience you've put us through since the start of Covid. Thank you so much for this experience and continuing on so we get to see another amazing episode. Cheers!
Exactly! No line is worth dying over
are there actual purity psychos out there or just armchair trolls?
Tom, I think a real (non-electronic) map and a real compass for backup is a must for your missions. A paper map is light and compact as well as a compass. And a satellite phone of course
I'd highly recommend a SPOT X (satellite tracker & 2-way messenger) - that way anyone coming to help can know exactly where you are.
If he can take accurate bearings it would be possible to stick stay on line. Enough to get to the next spot and go back if needing the electronic route
Absolutely astonished that they didn't have a map and compass!
the issue is that it's not just about keeping to the line - he also needs to prove he stuck to it.
Hindsight is 20/20, but these do truly, truly seem like necessities. I think nobody realized how crucial their lives were depending on the positive function of that GPS. I think, on trips like this, you have to ask yourself beforehand about every potentially unreliable item in your bag - "what if we lost it/it broke/it stopped working?" Upon asking the question of the GPS, a map and compass would have been become unquestionable essentials.
While I can ABSOLUTELY understand if this may be the last straight line mission you'll do, I really do hope it isnt. These are an absolute treat and I would love to see more of these.
Edit: the biggest shout out again to the woman of the hour Verity, absolute legend.
These straight line videos really are the pinnacle of RUclips but for my own selfish reasons I’d love to see Tom do many more straight line adventures but it’s completely understandable if he just wanted to pack it all in and just call it a day.
Yes i Hope, he does More of Those or maybe help others to do and Film their straight line missions!! 😊
For real. I almost feel bad getting so much entertainment out of Tom’s struggles, but it is soooo good to watch.
This series is a prime example of Murphy's Law
is that where if something is bound to go wrong it will go wrong? Or something like that
@@jonathandavies6862 Sod's law
@@jonathandavies6862 "if something CAN go wrong, it will"
Verity is absolutely the MVP in this episode
after all they had gone through, all due to things totally out of their control, it would have been a sin to not finish the mission for the sake of purity. this mission deserves a finish
Whilst I agree, I do think that it's perhaps going too far to call it a successful attempt. Going away to a hotel and re-couping, whilst it being the right thing to do here for obvious reasons, shouldn't be considered a normal part of the process.
@@Sherwinnicus in that case you might as well say that they can only camp, shit and gather supplies on the line too. It's just impossible and I think so long as they clock off and clock on, it's a fair line
@@ThatGuyFromYorkshire Yeah, as Tom said, maybe less pure, but a success is still a success and should be treated as such.
@@ThatGuyFromYorkshire Nope it's not.
@@ThatGuyFromYorkshire...what? Surely you can appreciate the difference between moving off the line when camping, etc vs having to abandon the mission and sleeping in a hotel due to injury/being caught by farmers/technology failure?
Otherwise, why not just sleep in a hotel each night along the mission?
[SPOILERS] Verity is just like a super hero in this episode, love it! Personally don't see an issue if you need to stray off the line in an emergency situation but if you return to the line and carry on, it's not perfect, but it's a win, also that ankle looked way worst than I expected, good effort.
I was really surprised when I saw how bad his ankle was as well given how much marching he’d done on it and how little he complained about it. What a soldier
Love this series, your ordeal reminds me of the idea that "If you've one, you've none" - usually applied to survival situations and the like of starting a fire. If you have one method, and it fails, you now have no methods. Redundancy is key. You've already got a good head for maps etc, and a compass would've been your second method of navigation (at least to the point of having a directional reference), and potentially a map if you had one practical enough to be worth carrying.
Same with comms - a sat phone is expensive and extra weight but worth that weight when you really really need it. Also you could look into the higher end of consumer-grade handheld radios. I know all of this is weight on weight but it a good weight spend not to mentally and emotionally drain you at the end of a tough day.
And sods law is that if you carry three methods of anyting (comms, fire, shelter) the first will never ever fail you
indeed a sight ranging compass bearing would have meant you could have contnued the line if only to cut the ten miler into prolly 4, yes "if youve one - youve none" is a good rule.
"One is none. Two is one."
yes, even just having a physical map would make it much easier to take the right roads and find Verity faster
Tom you're just a legend man. And so is verity - although christ I can imagine the absolute shite that could've unfolded if she'd gone to look for you. And ben you're a warrior doing that with your silly brother.
Yup!
Should definitly make a "if scenario action plan" with Verity if you don't already have it. Two people with the right gear and some basic hiking experience and common sense can survive for days, even weeks out in the wild even without food. A lone person with no experience and not the right equipment can seriously get lost or hurt themselves and die within a few hours with hyperthermia in the wrong conditions. Now, Verity seem like a badass. But make sure she stays put and instead call for help if you won't return after a set time.
@@Swansniff2 Verity absolutely seems like someone with the right experience. Which also meant she would stay put and not do something stupid. She knew she didn't have the right gear to search for them. I wonder at what point she would've broken and called the cops, because there's definitely a point where you need to do that.
Don't let this stop you doing a pure straight line mission in future :)
I mean, the Norway mission already was one.
@いのふかだ🇯🇵 What the fuck does this mean
@Tyler I think his focus has shifted toward bigger and better things than Whaeyles
He could try doing my country of Australia - From Perth to Sydney!!! I could show him the starting point...lol I am in Perth.
@@Defensive_Wounds Day 387. Desert, again.
Verity's a keeper, Ben's a soldier and of course Tom is the mastermind. Great video as always.
EDIT: After Tom liked my comment I would like to say that I subscribed him before the straight line videos. I love his Geoguessr content and I strongly suggest for all the subscribers to watch them. Thanks.
Wales is stunning. Watching this awe-some journey is one thing, but It's also shown thousands some beautiful rare views.
All of the UK has amazing countryside and nature, it's a shame tourists only go to London. Took some international friends on a nature tour of England, including Cornwall, the peak district lake district etc and they absolutely loved it. They want to see wales, scotland etc next
@@sami2503 I should visit someday, I'm lucky enough to live in northern europe with these kinds of sights, except with taller mountains. But the colors of grass & moss are always different wherever you go, so it's worth it even for someone who lives in a nice rural area. (plus you get bored of your own home area after a while)
The nearly entirely green, mossy forest was absolutely incredible. Beautiful
Verity is such a legend.
Oh my days, that was absolutely insane. The drama of the GPS battery draining turning the trip into a race against time, followed by the eventual sheer horror of being lost and searching for Verity, I almost feel bad enjoying what was clearly a hugely stressful ordeal, but that was an incredible story. Trekking 10 whole miles on a sprained ankle after an already gruelling two and a half days is a seriously impressive feat too -- and Tom's feet looked completely wrecked at the end of it.
This series is now in my eyes the greatest content on RUclips, every new adventure brings new twists and stories, and this series takes it to new heights.
I am very glad there's more to come!
These straight line mission series OH MY GOD. Genuinely not to overreact but this may be one of the greatest things Ive ever seen on a screen, right from Attempt 1, Episode 1. Its just all so perfect, the square gopro footage, the idea behind it all, the engaging commentary throughout, the naturally awesome stories that come from it and that bloody amazing music that you composed! I know you say you'll discuss the purity of a straight line mission when you have to rejoin the line midway through, but all I care about is that this is the most pure piece of brilliance I have ever seen on RUclips. Nobody will top this channel over the past couple of years, because there is just a level of purity to the whole production that I dont think is even possible to replicate by anyone else.
Same, pretty much the only videos I look forward to. Gonna be gutted when this series ends, hope he does another soon.
I know right it seems so weird to call this the greatest TV I’ve ever watched but I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s perfect
Verity is an actual legend, i'd love to hear some comments from her about this whole adventure! Please make it happen!!!
[SPOILER] This was an extremely emotional episode, despite of any controversy surrounding the line, safety should always come first
Not gonna lie I've refreshed multiple times today waiting for this one.
Hey just a quick tip, he did say it was going to release at 8pm GMT so that probably applies to the next one as well.
That's what the notification bell is for. A really useful feature if you know how to use it sparingly.
SAME! i love these straight line series
SAME!
same lmao
I'd love to see more "Verity cam" in future videos. I think about the things she must go through for all of this, would've been great to see it in the Norway videos that's for sure.
Would definitely be a fun parallel series.
My wife & I were just commenting on that ourselves.
It would be really fun to see her perspective on all this insanity, i agree.
in landscape, though :x
Sure she just sits there reading books while Tom has a panic attack thinking she’s hurt and lost in the woods!
The fact that you're willing to show us your partial failures makes the moments you succeed that much more sweet and believable. You could edit things to make it seem you didn't make any mistakes, but honestly those are some of the best parts.
The fact that Verity was reading a book had me laughing so hard 😂😂😂
Petition to get Verity’s take on it all!! Amazing video - I’m completely gripped and look forward to every episode. You’re a fantastic storyteller, Tom. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Yes, very much wondering what she thought for the entirety of this day, from meeting them at the river to Tom asking her to meet them on the line, to her reading a book in the car.
“Armed with 36 AA batteries…”
You literally could not take fewer chances!
What an absolute disaster of a day, I can only imagine how frustrated you were mate, I’d be permanently broken.
But seeing you drive back to where you left the line and hear you’d over-prepared yourselves with batteries gave me a rush of satisfaction and hope, to know this wasn’t going to be the end for you both.
In spite of the frustration you guys have endured, this is still fantastic content and all my respect to you and the gang for staying positive to go back into the wild of Wales and carry on!
Cannot wait for Part 4!
I'm imagining him with an ammo belt full of AAs around his neck
I really laughed out loud when he said that. Not in a bad way, but it was something about the seriousness in his voice about it ;)
I think the next trip you plan needs to be for verity and a nice calming week in the Med for her, without any hiking or brambles. She's an absolute treasure.
"As the rainbow's flawless frame grew bolder, so did our hopefull shadows who flung themselves westward towards the heartening horizon" 😳 are we just gonna pretend that this isn't top tier narration?
Right !! Let's not pretend we only watch Tom's videos to see guys busting through hedges. It's the quality, style and literary level of the narration that seals the deal.
For real! This guy could write a book!
I hadn't noticed this when I was watching but you're right, those are truly poetic words
[SPOILER] shame about the missing footage but I think I'm probably not alone in saying that I'm happy not to watch you guys go through that emotional turmoil, some things shouldn't really be up for entertainment purposes. Glad everyone was OK!
Are you crazy
@@Buttcakes15 Nope, are you?
Just remember if anyone complains about you and Ben going off line, they're doing so behind the comfort of their computer. Serious strength, determination and will power to continue! Massive respect! This is by far the greatest series on anything!
You got me there. I was about to complain but I'm laying on bed eating gummy snacks.
Literally, other people on RUclips are trying straight line challenges and give up on the first day just from the physical exhaustion. And we have people complaining about this being a failure because of an unforeseeable situation.
Somehow these missions allways "fail" in the planing stages, never on the trip itself:
#1 Not enough food to continue
#2 Not enough medication taken by Greg
#3 Not enough of a stealthy campsite
#4 Not enough satelite phone
However the thing that matters for us viewers is the entertainment. And entertainment this is! Also no shame in Sleeping somewhere else, as long as you admit it. The thing people didn't like about Bear Grills doing it was that he stood there the next morning saying: "Oh mate a had a bad sleep, terribly cold!"
Could you give an example of the mission failing on trip itself?
@@Tsharkeye Caught by farmer, unpassable area that was not on the maps, injury, some dogs or aggrsive livestock that don't allow a passing, unforseen changes in weather usw.
@@qawi272 usw. = etc.
@@jonathandonovan1802 ayy
I imagine that it'll end up being pretty easy for someone other than Greg to complete the challenge once they've got enough knowledge of what not to do.
Best thing that ever happened to me, youtube-wise, was having the algorithm recommend me the original mission's first episode in what feels like a lifetime ago now. I think that by following all of the missions since, we really get the appreciate this episode's struggles much more.
It's like Tom has become a character in a long, deeply loved, fictional series now.
Lol I found this channel the exact same way. I actually got annoyed at how much the algorithm was suggesting I watch that first mission episode until I finally caved. And I’m so damn glad I did!
Same! I finally clicked it for fucks sake. And it was great. But the journey across Europe with different vehicles was my favorite so far.
Same same! God bless the algorithm. These straight (very much hetero) line mission videos are the main reason I'm still watching RUclips these days.
I've watched a few other RUclipsrs try and copy this format, but none of them comes even close to mr Geowizard himself!
I had the algorithm recommend the first episode too, and I've been hooked ever since. Tom is a natural story teller.
@@JasonDBike How not to travel Europe was incredible and so underrated. Really hope they do another one this year.
You both made the right choice. Just remember you’re doing this mission for yourself, sometimes things happen that are above us and you just have to adapt to the circumstances. You don’t need to justify yourselves, seeing the mental and physical beating you’ve taken is a credit to your determination. Anyone who says otherwise probably wouldn’t even last a day doing this. Fantastic episode, best one yet!!
at the end of the day its his challenge with his rules. He did everything to prevent leaving the line, but if he has to, he has to. And if he wants to complete it later than so be it
Tom: OMG I hope Verity is safe and well
Verity: This book is awesome
Jokes aside, another marvelous episode directed by Tom. Glad to see everyone is safe at the end cuz that footage in the dark scared me a bit. Lots of love for Tom, Ben and Verity.
"As the rainbow's flawless frame grew bolder, so did our hopeful shadows, who flung themselves westward toward the heartening horizon, and the calm waters of the reservoir." This is narrated in such a beautifully literary way
Man. If this is the last straight line mission (for good reason) I would love to see a more relaxed and varied series like How Not to Travel Europe. It was nice seeing you guys having so much fun hitchhiking and doing odd jobs. If we ever get something new like that it’d be a nice refreshing change from the torture that is straight line missions.
that is still my favorite series on youtube, as an american it was so cool seeing European people and places.
It’s also my favorite series on Youtubr, the different scenes, the people you meet and help you, the music. Watched it several times and still cheers me up everytime!
@@beastysped3270 If you like that style of travel videos, you might also enjoy the videos by "Bald and Bankrupt", for example the one called "The Last House In The Chernobyl Village". :)
I loved How Not to Travel Europe.
@@cassius_eu5970 bald and bankrupt is fucked up and a horrible person. Loads of evidence for it online
Where does Verity want her statue? Wales or Norway?
3:45
"As the rainbow's flawless frame grew bolder,
So did our hopeful shadows,
Who flung themselves Westward,
Towards the heartening horizon,
And the calm waters of the resevoir"
He speaks so poetically, it’s a beautiful thing to behold. Almost brings a tear to your eye and keeps you engaged, engrossed and enthralled the entire time! Very much punctuates the storytelling between all the action.
27:30 “it happens when it’s cold and wet” well that’s perfect for wales because we all know how sunny and warm wales is!
Time for a daily dose of fresh air, love this series very much!
drbenjy and geowizard wow idol crossing paths, also hi fellow patreon
didnt expect to see u here, love ur stuff
My algorithm crosses paths...
BENNNNNNN
@@MrLegomaster21 FM and straight line missioning, it's a contrasting atmosphere
So the list for next time, as a reminder:
- satellite phones
- spare gps
- extra batteries
- Map and Compass
- and another book for verity :)
The thing is, they did have extra batteries which unfortunately didn’t work well. They went through 6 batteries and Verity had extras for when they would meet up. I think having the one GPS is fine (if it was actually the batteries being at fault and not the GPS draining the batteries at an abnormal quantity). Map and compass would be good but they would most certainly get far away from the line than intended too.
@@maximosjuan1 The map and compass isn't about sticking to the line and finishing the mission. It's about staying safe and not getting hopelessly lost in the woods in the dark in the middle of nowhere when electronics fail you. I love good ol' Tom, but it's halfway suicidal to go into the wilderness without these things.
@@maximosjuan1 I guess another way to have backup batteries is to make sure they are from different sources. Different packs from different stores from different brands. Only known in hindsight, but now it's something I'll think about in the future. It did make me wonder if it would show anything if tested in advance (voltage level as seen when supposedly fresh but under a little bit of load, just to make sure they are fresh).
@@PerMortensen - Exactly this! A lot of commenters don't seem to understand that these things are for survival, not just for line-following, and so suggest we are being unreasonable in suggesting them.
I mean even if not a satellite phone, at least an emergency beacon...
I wish there was a 'verity cam' of her calmly reading a book in the car while you're panicking :-p
😂 THAT would ve been soo funny
"hey guys verity here, no clue where the boy's are, they lost in the woods, but he said i should stay here, so lets do a book reading"
back to Tom (if the go pro didnt die) "AAAAAARGHGHGHGHGHHGHGHGHGHOEUHPHPOUSGHUGSHUGOIHHGSIOIHPOGS we are going the wrong way, what if something happend to verity!!!!!! ARGSYGAGYGAFIGIUFAGUFHUF
back to V: "and fordo set of to the mordor, ring in hand"
and so on and so forth
Things always go wrong when on expedition. The feeling of being lost is something not may experience in todays world but it is all consuming if you don't know better. And generally that feeling keeps you safe or drives you dangerously on. The more you do this stuff the more your kit becomes robust. I think it's perfectly ok to go back and complete a challenge. On the next challenge you'll be a little more prepared and wiser. Good job honestly.
goddamn. i thought i was stressed last episode, but i can't even imagine what you went through this one. wandering around in a dense forest, worried about your girlfriend, in the pitch black? i would have just sat under a tree and cried. props to you for getting through that, i think most people would have called it quits but you just always find the strength to pull through. amazing.
So epic man. This is an amazing series and I can’t wait to see how it concludes.
Hey you're that person who does the stuff.
Sup Bob, how's the fridge? XD
Bobbbbbbb
You just got B-B-B-B-Bobbled
Man, imagine if each of them had their own lines spaced apart by about a meter or two, in parallel
My takeaway from this video: Verity is clearly a keeper.
I just can't believe how calm and not bothered Verity is going through this. I'm pretty sure not many people would be so nice and accepting of the situation!
32:17 what, without a compass? Just why? I've done many hikes in my time, and, while relying on gps for the most part, always had a detailed map and a compass. You just can't ditch them when you're kilometers or even tens of kilometers away from any civilization
I agree, some non battery-powered kit is always helpful, especially in hindsight.
To be honest a smartphone with google maps would have been enough, even without phone signal it helps to figure out where you are
Yeah I can’t believe that they had no backup to hand for the GPS, the battery thing might have been unforeseen but surely there was always a chance they drop the GPS into a river or step on it or something?
@@etymology3 Literally taking 2 minutes to download the area offline on any old smartphone with a free app like maps.me would’ve saved so much of the hassle. I love these videos, but the lack of preparedness makes me cringe at times. The battery issue was unforeseen, but did they not consider they could’ve just lost the GPS and then they’d be in trouble?
@@mpepp9 Wales 1: learning not to burn the food.
Wales 2: learning that Jelly Babies and couscous is not a nutritionally complete breakfast, and to wear gloves.
Norway: learning not to walk into peat bogs.
Scotland: learning to move camp after being detected.
Wales 3: learning to bring backups for critical equipment.
soon he will have learned everything and be ready to tackle a straight line mission across the world.
Your bloody lucky you have a girlfriend like Verity to save your ass time and time again 🤣
Still a massive victory mate! Ive just finished reading Ed Staffords book when he walked the length of the Amazon. He often, marked his gps position, hopped on a boat which might be 2/3 DAYS out of his way to restock, get the same boat back, walk back the wrong way to the original gps mark and carry on. The only rules are the ones we set in our own head. 👍🏼
Most important thing is getting one completed, then the 2nd attempt will be more relaxed and even more planned after the experience of all the things going wrong.
It is simply incredible to see how these missions represent life: you can go up and down, lose your way and take the most unpredicted turns. But it'll almost always turn out ok.
Thanks for making these Tom! I love it!
I'm not going to lie, after seeing what you and Ben have been through on this trip, I'm quite worried about how the viewer who contacted you before this mission fared
Eventually the algorithm will present you with the video that they uploaded. They made an effort with their video, for sure.... but.....well. Why eat McD's when you have the prime cuts from fully massaged Japanese cow in your pantry?
ruclips.net/video/1jujJr6xrnM/видео.html
Watched this the other day. This could be the guy.
@@andrewmckinnon4526 ah mate, legend! I'll be giving this a watch to cede me over until the next installment
Verity cementing her place as a straight line mission legend!
Tom, it always seems like you're very, very well prepared for these missions. Everything planned out. Alternative camps planned on Verity's GPS etc. Very safe. However, I really cannot believe you didn't bring a compass with you. That's insane! You can get compasses the size of a 10p coin. They've saved a countless number of lives. That's possibly one of the biggest oversights I've ever seen. You had a right ordeal clearly but that could have been even worse.
I think sticking to the paths was the smart choice. With a compass you could have made the right turns. I'm glad it worked out but man... I dread to think what could've happened if things went differently. If you rolled your ankle and couldn't walk, pitched black, splitting up... Close one.
Props to Verity for staying calm and not going looking for yous. That takes a lot.
I'm sure you're Mr Perfect.....
@@JohnyG29 what a stupid response.
This comment sums my thoughts up perfectly.
A compass would be so incredibly ideal. Since this is a straight-line mission, there isn't anything else to do except grab the magnetic bearing and stay on it. I know there is a minor shifting constantly, but even with the GPS, they could have immediately started powering it off and only using it to reference every hour or so. I was actually so surprised when I found out they didn't have one.
@@JohnyG29 - Well, you're being Mr Idiotic. Knowing the absolute basics of outdoor survival isn't about claiming to be 'Mr Perfect'. Anyone with even the remotest experience in orienteering, scouts or the military would know that a compass is an absolutely essential piece of kit. Especially because there are tiny ones that just slip over your watchband strap.
you are an incredible storyteller, tom. the tension built through the editing is masterful. seriously, these videos are award worthy. thank you for making them.
I’ve been having one of the worst weeks in my life and this video appeared. I think the only thing that could take me away from my situation. Thank you from the bottom of my heart
Stay strong friend I’m sure you’ll get through all of it whatever may be going on
I find it more impressive that you push through it all with a messed up foot, then staying 100% pure to the line. Great series as always, i still belive your "How NOT to travel Europe" series was the best series you ever did, anyone reading this should go watch it, there is more than just hills and brambles to look at.
He really should do a Europe tour again as soon as the situation allows it, those videos were fucking amazing lol it's by far the best content on the channel
The ‘How not to travel Europe’ videos were so wholesome and really showed how nice people can be to random strangers, willing to help and even participate in fun challenges! It was also a great showcase of how different cultures and nationalities interact with each other. The series was such an inspiration to me. I was ready to plan my own backpacking trip a year later but then of course the pandemic hit. I really hope Tom and Greg will be able to make another series together. They play off each other so well and you can really feel the genuineness of their friendship. It’s the best content on RUclips by FAR.
as soon as things get back to whatever semblance of "normal" in terms of unrestricted and safe travel... would love a how not to travel europe part 2 -- my favorite series!
Those peat bogs are no joke, there's a reason we're still finding bodies in them that are thousands of years old. Glad you learned to respect them!
Though it does amuse me to imagine that at least one of those people who died in a peat bog thousands of years ago did so attempting a ye olde straight line quest.
@@SketchyMagpie A straight line mission accross Wales would have been a lot harder then as the Welsh had the whole Island! Although there was no such thing as a country back then.
love these vidoes but as a note on purity of line, maybe as well as a gold, silver etc rating on the straightness there should be a purity grade too, level 1 being do not leave the area of the platinum run, ever. then level 2 being allowed to move around once at a camp but no more than say a silver run width from the line or some other arbitrary metric. leaving for the night and returning is a level 4 or something and a segmented run is level 5, this allows anyone to take a shot at it but there are just 2 metrics to measure the validity of a run by. platinum, 1 being the most difficult and filtering down to a bronze, 5 run.
This is somehow your most chaotic video ever
Have you ever considered that your partner for the trip could not follow the line exactly and you only use your path? What I mean by this is that they walk with you most of the way, but any time you have a situation, they can leave the line to scout around without leaving your eyesight (or at the very least shouting distance) to advise you on the best way to navigate, but without affecting the challenge. For example, if you have a river, they could maybe walk 100m up stream to get to a safer place to cross, walk back along the other side and see a better angle, and then maybe also give you a helping hand from the other side whilst they themselves aren't in as much danger. They could also drag the boat round the riverbank like Verity did in this episode (although the line would need to be close enough to the river to stop you being out of reach in an emergency), and then Verity wouldn't need to trek through as many forests to help you out. Also, if you were in a valley, they could walk to the top of a hill to get phone signal and/or get a better viewpoint in the situation you were in at the end (without spoiling the video).
Also, I think this highlights a need for a map more than anything else (even a satellite phone) for the area you're going to rather than relying on technology that can so easily fail.
I didnt think about it before, but it really is an interesting idea. Hope Tom will see it
My gosh, I could feel your stress watching this. The idea of getting lost in the dark with no signal and not knowing where Verity was is so scary, and when I saw the state of your legs I audibly gasped. So much respect for soldiering on whether you left the line or not, either way this series is one of the most entertaining on youtube right now and I'm looking forward to the next episode!
Verity just sat reading a book while the panic ensues is so funny among all the drama.
Damn I thought this couldn't get scarier than the farmer ordeal but that was frightening. Glad you were all ok
I love these videos, but not gonna lie I've always been a little frustrated with the fact that you didnt have a satellite phone. After everything that happened in this episode I think itd be a good idea to get a backup gps system as well, its very possible for your gps to fail in a way that cant be fixed with extra batteries. At the very least you should bring a map and compass, even with a backup gps its good to have around.
Yes, backup everything
Honestly I 100% agree, I absolutely love these videos but with a bit better planning and thinking the success could be better.
This time satellite phones, a backup gps and batteries would have really helped.
On the Scotland mission for example having these big fires was kind of risky, too risky to be exact and trusting the farmer was really not a great idea, him calling the police was to be expected. Maybe he could’ve been paid of for example but they didn’t even try that
Good point, but Tom has to draw a line (pun intended) where to stop with the backups. After all you probably can’t do the mission with two sets of boots or a second tent. Even little things as more batteries, a second gps or a compass take valuable space and weight on these missions. And it’s even less appealing with Verity being able to help them out every now and then. But I 100% agree that a gps phone should be a necessity for future missions!
Yea definitely. Tom can be meticulously detailed at times but not when he has to consider his safety and the potential problems that can occur on a trip like this. For someone who has done this so many times, it's frustrating that Tom didn't appreciate the need to accommodate for the worst possible situations. It's easy to think it's rotten luck when you're in that position but it's also incredible luck that he wasn't even more injured/hurt and that he found Verity sitting in her car reading instead of any worse outcome.
I only say all this as a long-time fan and someone who cares about Tom and his goals. I'm not trying to pile on him or anything and I totally understand his reasoning with a lot of things. But I hope he learns from this trip like he has with the previous ones.
@@Why-yz6hs planning seems a bit too bare bones. And I agree a lot more thought is needed when dealing with people or dangerous situations (not moving when first spotted camping in Scotland; filming themselves breaking the law in a rail yard and putting it online).
Being turned around (in the dark) on paths in a relatively small area is so incredibly frustrating. It's compounded by the knowledge that, without a doubt, you are within a couple miles where you're trying to get to, but it seems like you've somehow been teleported to another dimension and no matter what you do, you get further and further from where you want to be. It takes a toll on your mind for sure. Just watching the last part of this video game me flashbacks to several times I've been there. Good on you Ben for being the voice of reason I wish I had had so many times.
I do worry sometimes about the lack of redundancy on these missions... I know and fully accept that you can't carry everything you might need, but, a spare GPS and satellite phone would be must haves for me, your GPS is the lifeblood of the mission, that goes down and your fucked... Its technology at the end of the day and we all know it fails us when we need it most!
The other solution would be a GPS that doesn't rely on AA batteries but has a rechargeable battery, then you can just carry known and tested Li-ion powercells
Same with a satellite phone. Imagine that your sprained ankle was a break, and you were at the most remote part of the trip, not having an effective means for extraction and call for help is really dangerous...
Redundancy is something that shouldn't be overlooked
Also Verity is a superhero!
... or even a basic compass that weighs next to nothing.
I was thinking the GPS is malfunctioning, not the batteries, draining to much electricity. As redundacy to the GPS tracker you could also just use a Smartphone with some locally stored maps. So not Google Maps or anything like that.
The other benefit of a satellite phone is that it can be used for more minor situations and semi-emergencies as well as just catastrophic ones. Getting lost or a minor injury, without regular mobile network coverage, means a satellite phone can be used for call Verity for assistance. But if you only have a regular mobile phone, and low network coverage, then all you can do is call 999 and then the emergency call will be prioritised across any available network coverage (if it even connects at all). So it forces you to either inconvenience 999 and emergency services with a minor matter, or to go without any assistance whatsoever.
@@LHyoutube That’s a good tip with the emergency call, even if it says no service and it’s an emergency you’re right it’ll connect you in any way possible, would suck if somebody seen no service and didn’t even try to call.
Is that 999 thing Uk specific or more global?
Absolutely in love with this series! In complete seriousness, you should really try a straight line mission across mainland Orkney 🏴. Totally doable but with loads of challenges 🤩
After everything you guys had to endure in this episode... That iconic theme song playing as you described your next steps at the end.... Words can't describe that feeling.
I love this so much.
The best series in ages, it hurts waiting a week you know. I can't think of anything that compares every week.
Buy a satellite phone yesterday, and always have non digital navigation available in future. I'm glad you made it through and I'm sure your brother will never let you forget it.
Aren't sat phones super expensive to buy and use, and you basically have to rent them from the operator?
@Immortal Science of Hauntology Renting would make more sense anyway I guess, since he doesn't do such missions every week.
@@bgezal - They aren't dirt cheap, but nor are they prohibitively expensive. But even if they were, they are still essential for this kind of situation, plus although he likely isn't making millions of dollars from these videos, he is certainly making enough to afford a satellite phone.
She was reading a book 😂. That made my day. Did you find out what killed the batteries so quickly? I know if there's water near them it could drain them faster.
It's been a long time since I've been totally exhausted from adventurous hikes, since being so spent that I feel like I have to throw up, spraining ankles, being cold and totally rain soaked, tumbling halfway down a ravine and more stupid stuff. But at those moments I felt truly alive and these videos bring that back, so thank you ever so much for that! Truly a unique series. 🙏
I don't know if you've used those batteries before on your straight line challenges but those Duracell Plus batteries are Alkaline batteries, Not the NiMH or Lithium batteries that the website recommends at 12:18 . Looking up the differences between Alkaline and Lithium - Lithium batteries output approximately the same voltage throughout their usage whereas with voltage of Alkaline batteries decrease as you use them meaning that they can't output the required voltage to keep the GPS alive for the entire time. Lithium batteries also generally last significantly longer than Alkaline batteries (even when used in devices that require a very low voltage output).
Tl;dr You unfortunately bought the wrong kind of batteries.
Oooh good catch. The devil is in the details.
I'm not gonna put in the details to verify everything but yes alkaline batteries decrease voltage on a much quicker steadier curve where nickle metal hydride and lithium ion tend to keep pretty close to their voltage until close to dieing. Meaning Alkaline are great for things like old flash lights (cause cheap and disposable) but pretty awful for things that require a certain voltage like electronics. Worst yet if those alkaline batteries are cold or old you put yourself way down on that voltage graph just to start and you could definitely end up with a situation exactly like this... Oof
I have used those Duracell batteries on every single mission I’ve done and they have always lasted over a day, even in freezing and wet conditions. Obviously I won’t be using them again, but you can see why I was comfortable with picking them!
It looks to me like water came inside the case of the GPS device and caused a small but steady current. Maybe letting the device dry would help.
try plotting the route using garmin for the gps then export the gpx to strava or komoot on a phone as a backup. strava seems better then my garmin for navigation in the mountains in bad weather, although the physical picture map overlay doesnt load with no phone signal you can still follow the pre planned blue line route
Hope this isn't the last Straight Line Mission. Can't wait to watch the video!
This episode was one problem away from being an actual disaster. Imagine if the cell service wasn't even intermittently available or if you got totally lost in the darkness while already being disoriented. It seems that every straight line mission pushes the luck a bit further. 😅
What comes to the validity of the run, imo this still counts. Like you said, it is somewhat comparable to collecting firewood or pooping out of sight. Maybe there should be a hardcore mode where you actually have to stay on the line the whole time between the start and the finish.
I'm anxiously waiting for the next episode.
Sit your ass down and sleep till day,not like there is any danger in the whales countryside and they got plenty of gear.Then you can go any direction 5 minutes and end up in someone's backyard lmao.Not like you can get lost in the wilderness in wales.
@@controlledsingularity8084 Yup, but they had Verity to think about also - they would not have known she was comfy and calm reading a book. They'd probably have search helicopters waking them up in the wee hours also.
youre desparation to reach verity before she could worry enough to set out herself brought a tear to my eye, youre very lucky to have her! what amazing support.