I love your comment, "Ya ain't fully tested a tent until you've tried it in the rain." Truer words were never spoken! Last year, I took my 16 year old daughter for an overnight backpacking trip on Mt. Charleston (outside of Las Vegas, NV). This was her very first backpacking trip and her first trip with some new gear (backpack, tent. sleeping bag, and mattress). There was "only a 20% chance of rain" predicted (famous last words). We set up camp, ate dinner and settled in for the night. About midnight, I heard the winds start to howl up the canyon and the rain soon followed. We hiked out in the morning, in the rain (so much for 20%-lol). She did a fabulous job, loved it, and the gear all held up very well. Now that she has the itch for backpacking, I hope she follows in your footsteps, exploring the wild places. Thanks for all of the amazing photography and videos. I love your channel, and have enjoyed seeing the big three trails in the US through your lens. I look forward to the next adventure!
The love Dixie has for filming animals or "critters" warms my heart everytime! I can't wait till she has enough video to post an acquired critter, Marvin Gay, compilation video💘
My dog died earlier this year and since then it seems like 2020 has been going downhill, but hiking brings me joy. When I'm not hiking, I watch this channel and think about hiking. Thank you Dixie, your videos mean a lot.
My Dori dog died in May. It has been a tough year but she is always with me in my heart. I’ve brought some of her ashes with me to places I couldn’t take her before (national parks mostly) and have left a bit there so she could be there too. Next year maybe I’ll adopt again, but I know I’ll never have a companion like her again. She was a once in a lifetime gift and I was blessed to share her life. Tears in my eyes
You need to train a new trail dog! I know it’s hard to replace the partner you’ve had for all those years. I have. 16 year old dog that I love with all my heart! It will make you excited to hike again!
Next to the laughter of my kids and grandsons, the best sound is that "crunch" of feet on a trail. Thanks for taking us along. Awesome content as always.
Just watched this with my daughter and she is so excited, she's 7 and watching your videos is what got her wanting to go hiking with me. PMT is the only trail we've gone to so far, in a few years I'll start taking her to the smokies with me on some longer hikes. Thanks for putting out such great content, and can't wait for this pandemic to pass and everything to go back to normal. -twelve
I have been a fan since Micro Greens, being somewhat limited in my outdoor activities for now your videos bring such light. The photography is so beautiful it puts the viewer right there. Thank you so much
Once the weather is nicer (in Arizona - may be a month or two yet), I'm going to start day hiking to work up towards my first backpacking trip. Watching your channel has been a massive part of the impetus for a trip. I had been looking for something to get me outside and active for a while when I found your channel and it just clicked. I never saw something like this achievable for someone like me. Your message of "anyone anywhere can do this too" is so authentic. You give the good and the bad about everything and that makes you a trustworthy resource. Thank you so much. :)
I recommend pass mountain loop approx 8 miles out by Apache junction. In user park. Or medicine wheel Trailhead which is about 5.5 at the end of meridian Rd north of US 60
Awwww Hank. I’m glad you took him “with” you.❤️Yes 2020 has been a rough one. Glad you finally got out again and by yourself to have some time to process some things. Thanks for the good info about your gear!❤️😊
Hi Dixie! Thank you so much for this video! Im a hiker here in the Philippines where we're having one of the world's longest quarantine. I badly miss the trail and your video is such a joy to watch especially with all the images of Nature you included. Thank you so much!
Pine Mountain was my last backpacking trip. It’s been about 3 years. I really liked the trails and campsites, but that was also the trip when I realized that I was probably going to have to have heart surgery again. I was struggling to get back and luckily I got a ride back to my truck once I got to a road. I’m planning a trip in the next week or two which will be my first one since my heart surgery and cancer surgery the year before that. I’ll either go to the Cohutta Wilderness or to the Foothills Trail. I may not get many miles per day, but I won’t be on the couch! Love your channel, Dixie. I started watching the vlogs of the first AT through hike. Last one I watched you and the fam were in PA. I’m watching them in sequence.
Congratulations man on beating the surgery and everything. I hope your hiking trip goes well. I am about to go hiking myself with my dog for the first time since graduating college. I’m just planning a 2 night weekend though.
Hope you have a great time on your next hike. Just being outdoors can do wonders for mind and body. Congratulations on your recovery from both health issues.
I remember when I first started backpacking (In the late 1970's.). The gear was cheap mostly because I hadn't educated myself yet and plus there weren't many outdoor specially stores around. Times have certainly changed. My first tent was a floorless A-frame and my pack was a Himalayan 3/4 external frame that was so small I had to hang a day pack on it just to hold the basic stuff. The sleeping bag was from my Army days as were my boots. And of course all clothing was cotton usually denim jeans and a flannel shirt. I carried a single burner strove that used the 16.2 ounce propane fuel tank and made coffee with a percolator. In spite of all that, the seed was sown and backpacking is still a major part of my life. Gear is always evolving and because of that I can still get out and do the long hikes. Thanks, as always, Dixie. There is always something to learn.
It is so awesome seeing you get back out on the trail. You have a wonderful outlook on life and you inspire many of us who have issues in life to look at things a little different. Plus, it's really nice to see you get back to the early days with a budget setup. Many during these trying time just cant afford the expensive gear. God bless you and watch over you.
Hi Wander and All. I have come across your vids once or twice before. I am getting on a bit now, mid-60s, and I just wanted to say that it is a pleasure to see a woman out and about who is clearly as gear 'oriented' (I didn't say obsessed!) as some of us old stagers. When I started backpacking in the 70s you never, ever saw women in the hills, even in small groups. In the UK the weather can be a huge factor, and camping in woods is not so easy/legal in most places, so open air camping is much more common on hills, and in valleys if you're looking for a bit of relative shelter, but you are still pretty exposed. If it is blowing 40-60mph, and the temperature is near freezing, with wet snow/rain/proper snow, it takes a fairly determined person to brave the elements. I'm not saying that women don't possess the dare-devil thing, they clearly do if in different ways to many guys, but talking with women friends it is clear there is more ? reserve about solo backpacking, for the reasons already mentioned, and that other, more abstract thing - the 'boogie man' factor, the unknown etc. Now, it is becoming more 'normal' to see women in the hills and on the trail. Good thing too, about time. I like your no-messing approach, and you come over as far less geeky than most of the guys out there! But geek away! And you are a great example to others who will come to know that it is natural to see women out there, unafraid of whatever it is that can fuel fear. One day it will be completely unremarkable to see women in all the places men have sort of monopolised for so long. I hope I don't come over as patronising or old-bloke-y, but in the 1970s and 80s in the UK it was still illegal to be a gay man and there were few women in positions of power. The first, Margaret Thatcher, was a totally shit first example! But I digress. I have lived right through the 'Women stay at home and do the house wifey stuff while the Men head outdoors' years, right up till now, when things are getting closer - closer if not yet close enough - to real equality. And whether you even think about this or not, you are doing your bit, doing a lot to dispel much of the old chauvinistic nonsense. Just sayin', but thanks anyway, from a man who has kind of seen it all, and likes the better changes that are happening :-) Cheers, Yogabob.
Love the keychain. Nice remembrance. Nice trip. Could have watched pictures of those beautiful woods on a much longer video. But thanks for taking us along.
I really enjoyed that video! The editing, the pace, the music. It was meditative and relaxing, I think it was a good mix of artistic style, showing nature and camping, and gear review. A really well made video!
From what little experience I have... The spend priority, whatever your budget is: Feet (quality socks, shoes.) before buying understand what you are looking for and what to avoid. (remember these are also useful off trail. Wear them in ahead of any hike) Shelter. Water filtration (sawyer mini is a good quality, budget friendly, versatile, compact option.) save money on the bottle. Most water you buy for next to nothing comes with a functional, lightweight water bottle option... Often better than ones sold separately. Often what we already have at home is sufficient to task on a budget as a starting point.. Freeing up funds for other quality items. A disposable plastic cutlery set from a take out or fast food place is often sufficient in the beginning. Saving a few dollars here and there adds up to more money to cover the quality of priority items. You don't need to buy a new toothbrush or small toiletries for example. Place existing toiletries in upcycled containers to suit needs. Stockings/pantihose are lightweight/compact extra warmth. They reduce chapping, stop leeches/ticks from attaching and are useful in many unexpected ways. Stainless steel is better value than cheap aluminium. It's better quality for the money. Titanium is worth investing in once you have a feel for what you know you will use enough to justify the spend. Once you have a good mess kit keep it in your car or everyday handbag. You can save money for improving your gear set up by making tea/coffee/cheap hot food instead of using take out options. This also helps you get familiar with your gear. Secondhand hiking gear is frequently hardly used. People who have the money buy up with ideas than change their mind.
Did my heart good to see you back on trail talking sweetee talk to the critters. Dixie is not meant for quarantine! One bit i would have liked but maybe your batteries couldn't handle it is to take us through each day. Show us making camp, dinner, breakfast, breaking camp each day. On a short trip like that could you have done some cool non standard trail meals? You've also talked about Bush crafting merging with backpacking.... maybe show some merging. Or, ignore me, you're the expert and what you do is fantastic! I will not be surprised if National Geographic reaches out for you to be a insect photographer... your shots belong there. Thank you!
Awww! Your keychain... ❤️🤗 Boy it was good to see that ol' cook pot and green cup! And the trail, trees and rocks! And the critters--awesome! And the MUSHROOMS! great video. I hope...know it's was good for your soul. ❤️
Dixie, this is great - I love the attention to the small things, especially the night insects! You focus on a lot of the things that I find fascinating when hiking - and I'm never sure if others find them as interesting, so thanks for the good reinforcement!
What a beautiful story. I really liked your attention to the natural life and beauty around you as you hiked and narrated. Thanks for taking us along on the trail with you.
Hi Dixie. I´ve been watching and enjoying your videos over the last six months from over here in northern Sweden. I find your videos truly inspiring and I just love your style. I feel for you in your sorrow over your dog and thank you for being so open about it. Wish you all the best and look forward to whats to come.
I'm so glad you said it is a good beginners trail. I was there a couple of weeks ago just to photograph the falls, and noticed all the water sources, and campsite not too far from the parking spot. I'm still trying to built my confidence on hiking solo, and camping one day. Thanks for sharing! I'm enjoying your videos :)
My 15 year old son and I are heading to Kennedy Meadows now for a weekend on the trail with our dogs. I'm loving how your videos help viewers join you in your sauntering. Taking the time to enjoy our surroundings is the journey for me. Thanks. .
So happy to see you out and about!! I am taking my son out this weekend for 2 nights! Can't wait! Had a great trip to Yellowstone 2 weeks ago, it was hard to come back!
I'm always interested in inexpensive gear, just in case I meet someone who is inspired by my years of hiking stories to try it for the first time, but, honestly, Dixie, I love hearing your accent, your upbeat attitude, communication skills, and absolutely masterful eye for the beauties of nature. You capture the feel of hiking like few others who I have followed on RUclips. Your confidence and independence is a true inspiration for all who seek the solitude and healing power found so abundantly in nature. God bless you on your future endeavors!👍
For me, this is one of your best videos. Great camera work, great scenery.. very well done! 2020 has been a very trying year for most folks. Hoping and praying for a better 2021.
What a beautiful little film to watch from my couch next to the heater here in Western Australia. Ah, can’t wait to get out and into it again in a few weekends’ time. Thanks for making the film, Dixie.
Dixie, I think this might’ve been one of your best videos. I’m about to go on my first solo weekend backpacking trip, and I really needed this. I’m getting all nervous about how hot it’s going to be, and how stormy, But I like to think I’m going to weather the whole experience as gracefully as you do. :-)
The Hiking Songstress - Troubadour there was definitely some new improvements for video content right from beginning. Yes up the GREAT inspirational videos, Dixie.
Very difficult times - but glad to see you out and enjoying yourself. I hope the time in nature brought the healing and perspective it always brings me, and more! Sending positive vibes from Ireland
Your videos are excellent and inspirational. I am 2 weeks away from my first long backpacking hike - 50 miles in the Adirondacks, solo. So I have watched many videos to learn about gear, tips, etc. Your videos are the best and very helpful! Thank you.
@@HomemadeWanderlust I guess I've been watching the majority that include your catch phrase :) ... Do not get rid of that by the way, great opening line. Also I wanted to say thank you because I am doing my first thru hike in September thanks to what you have shared with your life, experiences, and the content of your channel. I'll let you know how it goes!
@@HomemadeWanderlust I did spy the logo when you grabbed the camera, I haven’t noticed that in any of your other videos, but.. well concealed, I am ok with it, maybe it was digital.
Thank you for this relaxing video with the beautiful nature and hiking shots, but still so informative! you really nailed it here. (But I really enjoy your other videos too, don't get me wrong :) )
The Pine Mountain Trail is wonderful. It is like home to me when I am out there. The big tree "Ferney" is like a good old friend I've known since I was 6 or 7.
I’m looking to start day hiking in Riding Mountain Provincial park in my home province. I have been inspired by your channel and I hope to one day go for longer trips.
There you go young lady Start spending some time out in the woods On local trails in your state And you still managed to find Little critters and get beautiful shots of them You definitely have some beautiful woods out that way
It it so good to see you back out on a trail. I love your trail videos. Can't wait to hear about the budget gear. Keep your chin up. 2020 will be just another year gone by one day.
I really enjoyed that . Thank you for sharing your hike with us. The editing must be a lot of work and I appreciate your time. Have followed you since the AT also.
Lovely! I just feel better watching this. The Tennessee trails are my happy place. Loved seeing you in yours. Howdy from Murfreesboro. You inspire me. Currently building up our trail skills to try the AT with my husband.
Hubby and I have been doing more overnight or 2 night backpacking trips during the week and I love how quiet it is. The beginning of the video was so calming. Thank you that
I missed my Toyota Tacoma truck when I saw yours. I never get tired of hearing your voice or seeing your video's. So thank you Jessica for all the years of great content and smiles along you life's path. It has been real.
Your keychain is a beautiful tribute to your beloved pup. 2020 is trying many of us. In addition to the obvious, it does seem like so many of us are facing health challenges, job loss or unexpected loss of loved ones/pets. Thank you for your video.
Dixie, on the positive side. 2020 and all the trail stopping events has enabled me to buy all the light weight gear I’ve been lusting for over the years. All the money I saved by not being able to hike as much as I wanted to has enabled me to buy to buy all the gear to prepare me for next years trips. LiteAF pack, UGQ quilt, Zpacks Altaplex and so many other pieces of equipment. I’ve also started dehydrating my own food and vacuum sealing it for on the trail. So I can eat healthier and at a much lower cost. For me this is a win-win. Back packing gear and a great big out kit all in one.
Just something I have to say, I love the opening. The waking up making a breakfast and your eyes are still puffy not quite awake. It is the true hiker wake up.. still not awake but trying to get the day going.
I love your comment, "Ya ain't fully tested a tent until you've tried it in the rain." Truer words were never spoken! Last year, I took my 16 year old daughter for an overnight backpacking trip on Mt. Charleston (outside of Las Vegas, NV). This was her very first backpacking trip and her first trip with some new gear (backpack, tent. sleeping bag, and mattress). There was "only a 20% chance of rain" predicted (famous last words). We set up camp, ate dinner and settled in for the night. About midnight, I heard the winds start to howl up the canyon and the rain soon followed. We hiked out in the morning, in the rain (so much for 20%-lol). She did a fabulous job, loved it, and the gear all held up very well. Now that she has the itch for backpacking, I hope she follows in your footsteps, exploring the wild places. Thanks for all of the amazing photography and videos. I love your channel, and have enjoyed seeing the big three trails in the US through your lens. I look forward to the next adventure!
Sweet tribute to Hank on this National Dog Day! May your buddy RIP and be always in your heart.
The love Dixie has for filming animals or "critters" warms my heart everytime! I can't wait till she has enough video to post an acquired critter, Marvin Gay, compilation video💘
My dog died earlier this year and since then it seems like 2020 has been going downhill, but hiking brings me joy. When I'm not hiking, I watch this channel and think about hiking. Thank you Dixie, your videos mean a lot.
sorry for you loss my friend . be strong !
My Dori dog died in May. It has been a tough year but she is always with me in my heart. I’ve brought some of her ashes with me to places I couldn’t take her before (national parks mostly) and have left a bit there so she could be there too. Next year maybe I’ll adopt again, but I know I’ll never have a companion like her again. She was a once in a lifetime gift and I was blessed to share her life. Tears in my eyes
You need to train a new trail dog! I know it’s hard to replace the partner you’ve had for all those years. I have. 16 year old dog that I love with all my heart! It will make you excited to hike again!
Next to the laughter of my kids and grandsons, the best sound is that "crunch" of feet on a trail. Thanks for taking us along. Awesome content as always.
I didn't realize that I missed that sound, until watching these videos...................................rj
Just watched this with my daughter and she is so excited, she's 7 and watching your videos is what got her wanting to go hiking with me. PMT is the only trail we've gone to so far, in a few years I'll start taking her to the smokies with me on some longer hikes. Thanks for putting out such great content, and can't wait for this pandemic to pass and everything to go back to normal.
-twelve
Zach, that is wonderful that your daughter wants to go hiking! Dixie is a role model. Have fun hiking and you will create fantastic memories.
What’s the PMT? Oh, Pine Mountain Trail, got it.
hey dixie, long time viewer here (never commented). Your videos bring me joy and are relaxing. and you're great!
Thank you, Peter! I appreciate you watching and saying hey 👋🏻
I second that! Next weekend winding stair to fontana dam :) thanks dixie for helping me get into backpacking i love your videos!
Yep. Watching her videos got me off my butt and on the trail...at 56 years old.
Me too!
AHHA - "pleasure"..I understand just what you are saying 😉
Thank you for your video, I liked it👍
I have been a fan since Micro Greens, being somewhat limited in my outdoor activities for now your videos bring such light. The photography is so beautiful it puts the viewer right there. Thank you so much
"2020 has tried me..." She stopped one step short of "2020 Bless its heart.."
Once the weather is nicer (in Arizona - may be a month or two yet), I'm going to start day hiking to work up towards my first backpacking trip. Watching your channel has been a massive part of the impetus for a trip. I had been looking for something to get me outside and active for a while when I found your channel and it just clicked. I never saw something like this achievable for someone like me. Your message of "anyone anywhere can do this too" is so authentic. You give the good and the bad about everything and that makes you a trustworthy resource. Thank you so much. :)
I recommend pass mountain loop approx 8 miles out by Apache junction. In user park.
Or medicine wheel Trailhead which is about 5.5 at the end of meridian Rd north of US 60
Awwww Hank. I’m glad you took him “with” you.❤️Yes 2020 has been a rough one. Glad you finally got out again and by yourself to have some time to process some things. Thanks for the good info about your gear!❤️😊
I love the background classical music. So peaceful
PM: was wondering if anyone noticed - and someone did! Best music ever on dixies chanel!
Glad to know Hank went on this trip with you in spirit.
Hi Dixie! Thank you so much for this video! Im a hiker here in the Philippines where we're having one of the world's longest quarantine. I badly miss the trail and your video is such a joy to watch especially with all the images of Nature you included. Thank you so much!
Hang in there & stay safe.
@@kimkremer8915 thank you and stay safe too! :)
Thank you so much for doing this! It's nice to see a pro trying stuff more people can afford.🌻🌻
Something about this video was like a cool glass of water on a hot summers day. REfreshing
Absolutely. Nice to see promotion of budget gear for beginners. You DONT have to spend a fortune to get out there and enjoy it. 🖐👍
Pine Mountain was my last backpacking trip. It’s been about 3 years. I really liked the trails and campsites, but that was also the trip when I realized that I was probably going to have to have heart surgery again. I was struggling to get back and luckily I got a ride back to my truck once I got to a road. I’m planning a trip in the next week or two which will be my first one since my heart surgery and cancer surgery the year before that. I’ll either go to the Cohutta Wilderness or to the Foothills Trail. I may not get many miles per day, but I won’t be on the couch! Love your channel, Dixie. I started watching the vlogs of the first AT through hike. Last one I watched you and the fam were in PA. I’m watching them in sequence.
Congratulations man on beating the surgery and everything. I hope your hiking trip goes well. I am about to go hiking myself with my dog for the first time since graduating college. I’m just planning a 2 night weekend though.
Ceece thanks. Hope you have a great time. I forgot to mention that I am taking my dog Mo with me.
Hope you have a great time on your next hike. Just being outdoors can do wonders for mind and body. Congratulations on your recovery from both health issues.
I remember when I first started backpacking (In the late 1970's.). The gear was cheap mostly because I hadn't educated myself yet and plus there weren't many outdoor specially stores around. Times have certainly changed.
My first tent was a floorless A-frame and my pack was a Himalayan 3/4 external frame that was so small I had to hang a day pack on it just to hold the basic stuff. The sleeping bag was from my Army days as were my boots. And of course all clothing was cotton usually denim jeans and a flannel shirt. I carried a single burner strove that used the 16.2 ounce propane fuel tank and made coffee with a percolator.
In spite of all that, the seed was sown and backpacking is still a major part of my life. Gear is always evolving and because of that I can still get out and do the long hikes. Thanks, as always, Dixie. There is always something to learn.
Awesome idea for a video. Keep killing it!!
You are right, 2020 is a "special" year, no one will ever forget. Going alone for a hike in the woods ist one of the best things, to do this year.
Dixie back on a trail making videos. All is well with the world! 🇺🇸
It is so awesome seeing you get back out on the trail. You have a wonderful outlook on life and you inspire many of us who have issues in life to look at things a little different. Plus, it's really nice to see you get back to the early days with a budget setup. Many during these trying time just cant afford the expensive gear. God bless you and watch over you.
Hi Wander and All. I have come across your vids once or twice before. I am getting on a bit now, mid-60s, and I just wanted to say that it is a pleasure to see a woman out and about who is clearly as gear 'oriented' (I didn't say obsessed!) as some of us old stagers. When I started backpacking in the 70s you never, ever saw women in the hills, even in small groups. In the UK the weather can be a huge factor, and camping in woods is not so easy/legal in most places, so open air camping is much more common on hills, and in valleys if you're looking for a bit of relative shelter, but you are still pretty exposed. If it is blowing 40-60mph, and the temperature is near freezing, with wet snow/rain/proper snow, it takes a fairly determined person to brave the elements. I'm not saying that women don't possess the dare-devil thing, they clearly do if in different ways to many guys, but talking with women friends it is clear there is more ? reserve about solo backpacking, for the reasons already mentioned, and that other, more abstract thing - the 'boogie man' factor, the unknown etc. Now, it is becoming more 'normal' to see women in the hills and on the trail. Good thing too, about time. I like your no-messing approach, and you come over as far less geeky than most of the guys out there! But geek away! And you are a great example to others who will come to know that it is natural to see women out there, unafraid of whatever it is that can fuel fear. One day it will be completely unremarkable to see women in all the places men have sort of monopolised for so long. I hope I don't come over as patronising or old-bloke-y, but in the 1970s and 80s in the UK it was still illegal to be a gay man and there were few women in positions of power. The first, Margaret Thatcher, was a totally shit first example! But I digress. I have lived right through the 'Women stay at home and do the house wifey stuff while the Men head outdoors' years, right up till now, when things are getting closer - closer if not yet close enough - to real equality. And whether you even think about this or not, you are doing your bit, doing a lot to dispel much of the old chauvinistic nonsense. Just sayin', but thanks anyway, from a man who has kind of seen it all, and likes the better changes that are happening :-) Cheers, Yogabob.
Farout! I must say fixing your meal while in your tent is so inspiring! And thank you for the video. :) the deer were so pretty.
I really enjoyed the 'feel' of this video. It's great you got to get out, thanks for taking us along with you and trying out the gear.
Thank you for the inspiration. I have no idea how I started watching you, but you stirred the desire deep down to go backpacking.
I love your whole outlook on life, way to much negativity being spread around this year. You're a breathe of fresh air Dixie!!
That mushroom looks more like an good ol' selfmade pancake :)
That's what I was thinking.
Waiting for some fruit compote.
I was thinking pancake too!
Ham steak 🥩😋.
It was definitely a pancake :-)
Thats a lot of critters, its like the rainforest. With a name like Fernie, thats a southern lollybolly pine for sure! I love that you hug trees.
Glad you could get out and enjoy yourself. Im getting ready to do a 45 mile stretch of the AT in VA for my summer vacation.
Love the keychain. Nice remembrance. Nice trip. Could have watched pictures of those beautiful woods on a much longer video. But thanks for taking us along.
I really enjoyed that video! The editing, the pace, the music. It was meditative and relaxing, I think it was a good mix of artistic style, showing nature and camping, and gear review. A really well made video!
From what little experience I have... The spend priority, whatever your budget is:
Feet (quality socks, shoes.) before buying understand what you are looking for and what to avoid.
(remember these are also useful off trail. Wear them in ahead of any hike)
Shelter.
Water filtration (sawyer mini is a good quality, budget friendly, versatile, compact option.) save money on the bottle. Most water you buy for next to nothing comes with a functional, lightweight water bottle option... Often better than ones sold separately.
Often what we already have at home is sufficient to task on a budget as a starting point.. Freeing up funds for other quality items.
A disposable plastic cutlery set from a take out or fast food place is often sufficient in the beginning.
Saving a few dollars here and there adds up to more money to cover the quality of priority items.
You don't need to buy a new toothbrush or small toiletries for example. Place existing toiletries in upcycled containers to suit needs.
Stockings/pantihose are lightweight/compact extra warmth. They reduce chapping, stop leeches/ticks from attaching and are useful in many unexpected ways.
Stainless steel is better value than cheap aluminium. It's better quality for the money. Titanium is worth investing in once you have a feel for what you know you will use enough to justify the spend.
Once you have a good mess kit keep it in your car or everyday handbag. You can save money for improving your gear set up by making tea/coffee/cheap hot food instead of using take out options. This also helps you get familiar with your gear.
Secondhand hiking gear is frequently hardly used. People who have the money buy up with ideas than change their mind.
I’m already clicking like and I haven’t watched. This content was MADE for me.
I click Like when I first start watching, too. :)
Did my heart good to see you back on trail talking sweetee talk to the critters. Dixie is not meant for quarantine!
One bit i would have liked but maybe your batteries couldn't handle it is to take us through each day. Show us making camp, dinner, breakfast, breaking camp each day. On a short trip like that could you have done some cool non standard trail meals? You've also talked about Bush crafting merging with backpacking.... maybe show some merging.
Or, ignore me, you're the expert and what you do is fantastic! I will not be surprised if National Geographic reaches out for you to be a insect photographer... your shots belong there.
Thank you!
Awww! Your keychain... ❤️🤗 Boy it was good to see that ol' cook pot and green cup! And the trail, trees and rocks! And the critters--awesome! And the MUSHROOMS! great video. I hope...know it's was good for your soul. ❤️
Dixie, this is great - I love the attention to the small things, especially the night insects! You focus on a lot of the things that I find fascinating when hiking - and I'm never sure if others find them as interesting, so thanks for the good reinforcement!
What a beautiful story. I really liked your attention to the natural life and beauty around you as you hiked and narrated. Thanks for taking us along on the trail with you.
Hi Dixie. I´ve been watching and enjoying your videos over the last six months from over here in northern Sweden. I find your videos truly inspiring and I just love your style. I feel for you in your sorrow over your dog and thank you for being so open about it. Wish you all the best and look forward to whats to come.
I'm so glad you said it is a good beginners trail. I was there a couple of weeks ago just to photograph the falls, and noticed all the water sources, and campsite not too far from the parking spot. I'm still trying to built my confidence on hiking solo, and camping one day. Thanks for sharing! I'm enjoying your videos :)
My 15 year old son and I are heading to Kennedy Meadows now for a weekend on the trail with our dogs.
I'm loving how your videos help viewers join you in your sauntering. Taking the time to enjoy our surroundings is the journey for me. Thanks.
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Love your 100% genuine laid back nature and your filming of course! Thank you for this 😀
So cool you use the same pot.I bought one years ago when I watched some of your first videos. Thanks for the video Dixie. Be safe.!
My pot is 50 years old!
I take care of my grandmother right now and cherish every memory but I can tell you I miss the trail and look forward to that day again❤️
Finally getting outside.. Awesome, yay, content.
I've been studying your gear link. I can't wait for next weeks review. Your budget gear list is an excellent resource for everybody.
I'm a truck driver now and Michigan is one of my favorite states to drive. I love the beautiful trees and water
So happy to see you out and about!! I am taking my son out this weekend for 2 nights! Can't wait! Had a great trip to Yellowstone 2 weeks ago, it was hard to come back!
I love seeing you out on trail again. Even for just a couple day :)
I love your close up shots of all the critters . Thanks for sharing
I’m moving back to GA in a bit and this seems like the perfect spot to take my kids for their first backpacking experience. Thanks!
I'm always interested in inexpensive gear, just in case I meet someone who is inspired by my years of hiking stories to try it for the first time, but, honestly, Dixie, I love hearing your accent, your upbeat attitude, communication skills, and absolutely masterful eye for the beauties of nature. You capture the feel of hiking like few others who I have followed on RUclips. Your confidence and independence is a true inspiration for all who seek the solitude and healing power found so abundantly in nature. God bless you on your future endeavors!👍
Thanks for this, I needed it too. Hotter than Hades in a wool suit I'm gonna steal that if you don't mind
It's always nice to watch your hike trips after a long day of work on my end. Very relaxing.
1:45 Nice trickshot Dixie!👍😁
That’s Aaron’s handy work!
For me, this is one of your best videos. Great camera work, great scenery.. very well done! 2020 has been a very trying year for most folks. Hoping and praying for a better 2021.
"Go! Go! You can do it!!" @snail slowly mounting log😂
Dixie, I love all the critters and nature shots you take time to show us! This trail did seem like it would be good for beginners. Thank you!
I've missed this! It's flipping fantastic to be back on the trail with you and the bugs again.
I use those trekking poles! I’ve had them for about 2 years now (backpacking, hiking, and snowshoeing) and they’ve held up great!
Good to know! Thank you
Homemade Wanderlust 👍 Thank you for making amazing content!
What a beautiful little film to watch from my couch next to the heater here in Western Australia. Ah, can’t wait to get out and into it again in a few weekends’ time. Thanks for making the film, Dixie.
Dixie, I think this might’ve been one of your best videos. I’m about to go on my first solo weekend backpacking trip, and I really needed this. I’m getting all nervous about how hot it’s going to be, and how stormy, But I like to think I’m going to weather the whole experience as gracefully as you do. :-)
The Hiking Songstress - Troubadour there was definitely some new improvements for video content right from beginning. Yes up the GREAT inspirational videos, Dixie.
Very difficult times - but glad to see you out and enjoying yourself.
I hope the time in nature brought the healing and perspective it always brings me, and more!
Sending positive vibes from Ireland
Your videos are excellent and inspirational. I am 2 weeks away from my first long backpacking hike - 50 miles in the Adirondacks, solo. So I have watched many videos to learn about gear, tips, etc. Your videos are the best and very helpful! Thank you.
So good to see you hiking 💚🌳🥾
Thanks for for the content Dixie 😁 always worth tuning in
What a wonderful human being you are! Part Mark Twain, part Grizzly Adams, all Southern!
I had to look at who posted three times. If I don’t hear “Hey y’all, Dixie here” then idk if this is even a Homemade Wanderlust video 🙂
Thomas Adams Most of my trail videos don’t include that 😉 But touché lol
Y’gotta mix it up a little once in a while. 😉😄
@@HomemadeWanderlust I guess I've been watching the majority that include your catch phrase :) ... Do not get rid of that by the way, great opening line. Also I wanted to say thank you because I am doing my first thru hike in September thanks to what you have shared with your life, experiences, and the content of your channel. I'll let you know how it goes!
those lovely trail sounds though!
@@HomemadeWanderlust I did spy the logo when you grabbed the camera, I haven’t noticed that in any of your other videos, but.. well concealed, I am ok with it, maybe it was digital.
Thank you for this relaxing video with the beautiful nature and hiking shots, but still so informative! you really nailed it here. (But I really enjoy your other videos too, don't get me wrong :) )
The Pine Mountain Trail is wonderful. It is like home to me when I am out there. The big tree "Ferney" is like a good old friend I've known since I was 6 or 7.
Thanks Dixie! Glad to see you out on the trail again! Bet it felt great! Stay well!
Still using your good old reliable cook pot and in insulated cozy. Good to see you back on the trail.
Loved the scenery and shots of all the critters! Thanks for this amazing content.
I’m looking to start day hiking in Riding Mountain Provincial park in my home province. I have been inspired by your channel and I hope to one day go for longer trips.
You still make some of the best hiking, camping videos. I always enjoy watching them.
Your commentary was particularly entertaining on this one! Excellent video.
There you go young lady
Start spending some time out in the woods
On local trails in your state
And you still managed to find Little critters and get beautiful shots of them
You definitely have some beautiful woods out that way
I live in Georgia and have hiked Pine Mountain trail several times. So cool to see some familiar sites in a hiking video. Thanks for sharing!
It it so good to see you back out on a trail. I love your trail videos. Can't wait to hear about the budget gear. Keep your chin up. 2020 will be just another year gone by one day.
I really enjoyed that . Thank you for sharing your hike with us. The editing must be a lot of work and I appreciate your time. Have followed you since the AT also.
Lovely! I just feel better watching this. The Tennessee trails are my happy place. Loved seeing you in yours. Howdy from Murfreesboro. You inspire me. Currently building up our trail skills to try the AT with my husband.
Hubby and I have been doing more overnight or 2 night backpacking trips during the week and I love how quiet it is. The beginning of the video was so calming. Thank you that
Thanks for sharing your knowledge of gear and trekking experiences - it is a pleasure to follow you - all the best and stay safe!
I'm still needing to do my first hiking trip, backpacking. I'm making my pot cozy..... gotta finish that. Thanks for your inspirational videos!!!🥰
My nice hikes solo in the Southwestern states . She loves the quiet time to herself also. Stay safe!
I love that you still have the same pot.
It’s my old trusty!
@@HomemadeWanderlust That thing should be in a museum.... it's earned that right.
Awesome nature shots. Love your attention to detail and how you notice such interesting things!
I missed my Toyota Tacoma truck when I saw yours. I never get tired of hearing your voice or seeing your video's. So thank you Jessica for all the years of great content and smiles along you life's path. It has been real.
this is a great one, love that you included the pictures/video of the wildlife. 👍👍👍👍
Your keychain is a beautiful tribute to your beloved pup. 2020 is trying many of us. In addition to the obvious, it does seem like so many of us are facing health challenges, job loss or unexpected loss of loved ones/pets. Thank you for your video.
Dixie, on the positive side. 2020 and all the trail stopping events has enabled me to buy all the light weight gear I’ve been lusting for over the years. All the money I saved by not being able to hike as much as I wanted to has enabled me to buy to buy all the gear to prepare me for next years trips. LiteAF pack, UGQ quilt, Zpacks Altaplex and so many other pieces of equipment. I’ve also started dehydrating my own food and vacuum sealing it for on the trail. So I can eat healthier and at a much lower cost. For me this is a win-win. Back packing gear and a great big out kit all in one.
I like seeing a review done like this, you don't see many and it has great value. Thank you!
I love how you show all the wee critters and what they're up to 😊
🐾💖
Thank you. They are so fun to watch!
I second that emotion!!! Isn't hiking supposed to be about nature? I think bugs and critters qualify as part of that equation...
Just something I have to say, I love the opening. The waking up making a breakfast and your eyes are still puffy not quite awake. It is the true hiker wake up.. still not awake but trying to get the day going.
Nice shots of the local wildlife. Great video.
Great nature closeup shots! Entire hike seemed enjoyable.
Great video. Cinematography was creative and smooth. Sweet truck. Thanks, Dixie!
Good to see you on the trail again. Have missed your hiking.
I love your appreciation of critters of the night. Creepy crawlers delight
So awesome to see you at our home trail. We are very close to this trail and visit often. Happy to see a backpacking legend visit! :)
I only discovered your channel recently, but I blame you for sparking the will inside me to go out hiking again. Thank you Dixie :)