Thank you luke , my late hubby and I practiced in a apartment setting up tent and using equipment . That was before cellphone internet world. Cooking with camp stoves on the porch balcony all in safety.
1. Today, I realized just how soothing your videos are on a Sunday afternoon. 2. I agree that setting up routines is a good way to minimize the chance of catastrophic blunders. However, I believe one must consciously follow it because automatically following a routine can lead to mistakes. 3. In my experience, just because someone has done a lot of hikes (or bike rides) without mishap does not make them "experienced." - one must learn from them.
I love your point about doing psuedo-shakedown day hikes before a backpacking trip. That is how I learned that my bag really didn't fit my body well and I needed to buy another before my first trip a long time ago. If I hadn't taken those day hikes, I would have set myself up for a miserable experience, and probably even injury given how my pack fit on me. Most likely would have been a horrible first impression of backpacking and I probably wouldn't have continued doing it.
On my local trails that I bike, I often run across people hiking dry runs with their gear. The round trip on the trail is 10-12 miles tops in both sun and shade.
it is the same with buying a motor home or a camping trailer I have seen people buy a brand new camper and a pickup to pull it and all the necessities and pack up the wife and four kids and the first trip is a thousand miles or more out to Yellowstone national park or something like that and they had never pulled a trailer in their lives especially one with a high center of gravity not too mention having no idea how to setup the camper and I have seen them come home after the frustration of the first trip and sell everything and never go camping again so yes I agree make some short trips too local campgrounds and even setup in your own back yard and get used too your equipment and get used too having everyone cramped in the vehicle for long distances and so on and please watch some camping edict before you go so you don’t make a bunch of people mad at you like coming into a campground where there are 150 camp sites and only one other camper in the park and you setup in the site right next to them this has happened too us when we started camping back in the early 70’s and what we did back then is my dad went too the local company who owned the busses that hauled the local kids to school everyday and bought a old school bus that had been retired and the driver got a new one well the one he came home with happened to be the same one that me and my four siblings had been riding too school for years and we helped my dad convert it from a school bus into a camper and sand the outside down and paint it we had fun doing that and our first outing with it was a hundred mile ride up to some relatives house in northern Wisconsin and we spent a weekend getting used too living in the camper
As someone who’s just getting started this is much appreciated. I personally skipped the campground stuff tho. Too crowded, too loud and if I did that, might as well camp at the Walmart parking lot. Being out by myself doesn’t bother me. Found some dispersed camping sites I’ve been staying at to build my skill, easy in, easy out and 15 minutes max from the closest town so if I forgot anything, quick trip to pick it up. I learned this weekend that I SUCK at putting up a tarp. You make it look so easy. I’d pay you for lessons on setting up and tearing down tarps! But instead I’m gonna keep trying until I get it. I’d really appreciate more tips for things like this. My goal is to hike into the backcountry for an overnight adventure.
This was an amazing video, Luke. I have literally ran into all of the issues you listed. As a kid we would camp or overnight backpack maybe once a year and now as an adult, I have decided to take it up again. My younger nephew really enjoys being out camping and fishing, so he is my tag-along buddy on most of these trips. His dad left early in his life and I have been the fill in adult male in his life to teach him what it means to be a good person and to show him what its like to 'rough it' in the outdoors so he understands what hardship is and can grow from it, I am extremely proud of him. We used to bring everything imaginable in the back of the car, but as we gain experience we are really paring it down to just the things we need; its a real eye opener what you can do without and what is worth bringing (a deck of cards is amazing). I recently hit the big 4-0 and decided that I didn't want to actually feel my age, so I cut the sugary drinks out, started lifting weights again and walking twice a day and I have already lost 20 pounds and am feeling better by the day. This is giving me the confidence in the short term to look at going on an overnight backpacking trip again, its only 4 miles each way but its tough for someone like me who has not focused on cardio in probably a decade and has always had extra weight around the middle; climbing those hills kills me. Long term my aim is to try to draw an elk tag out west in the next 2-3 years (bucket list dream) and be in good enough shape that I can go and not croak while scaling mountains. 😄 Thank you for reminding me how great the outdoors is Luke. (Suzie too! Your western driving trips together are so fun to watch)
Luke, this is another fine educational episode from you, packed with so much good advise and common sense; a very concise and detailed compilation that I'm sure will help a lot of people. Thank you so much!
I have watched your videos for a while and do not consider myself a nub by any means, but you video is relatable for anyone. There is always things we forget or overlook, you hindsight is more than welcomed for anyone with an open mind and clear head. Being aware is something you mention often and is so true. The video makes it clear on so many levels. Thank you.
Luke, this is a great video. Thanks for sharing! I am learning more about the basics, as I ALWAYS carry way too much when car camping. I am hoping to learn more so I can do a canoe/kayak overnight trip next year with my buddies.
Good video Luke, lots of information that is very useful to keep camping safe. My first rain issue: I did check the weather forecast and made the campsite reservation 2 days in advance. I checked the weather and 3-day forecast the morning of trip. It was like rain 0%,0%,2% basically showed sun marks for the 3-days. The second day, 0% rain forecasted day, around 5 PM we were in the car for 45 minutes as a deluge came down wiping out our camp fire that we were to cook on and made everything muddy! I was worried our tent might be flooded or at least water on the sleeping bags. Much to my surprise no water made it inside, though my camp shoes I had in the vestibule were soaked and the outside of the tent on one side was muddy from all the splashing the rain made. That night we ended up cooking with our small backpacking stoves. We did finish the planned days comfortably. What probably helped is each morning I open up the tent to air it out but I always close it up by noon, so when the rain came the tent was not vulnerable. Just letting people know, be prepared because even with today's communication and technology, 'they' still get the weather wrong at times. Also I never went camping without a tarp after that as I would have much rather been under a tarp than in the car during that rain.
Great tips Luke and thanks for putting the vid together and passing on your knowledge. My boys (13 and 14) have already been on an overnight school camp (2 nights cabin and one in a tent) which a good introduction to "roughing it" - cooking your own meals, toilet planning, packing the gear back up. The school camps get longer for nights in a tent as they go through each year. I'm planning to do the shake-down of their camping gear in our own backyard at first in a range of weather (hot/cold, dry/wet) before they head out for real so they'll know what to expect when camping for real. The house is out of bounds so they'll have to use their own initiative and use what they have. It should be an eye-opener as to what's needed and what isn't. Keep the vids coming!
Best video in awhile & great advice. I'm 69 and recently got back into hiking & backpacking. Something else you can do to prepare ... many cities have walking paths. Use them to condition your body to carrying a loaded pack before you go out in the woods.
I love listening to your stories your advice , you should be proud of yourself and your wife and family well balanced grounded folk . I hope you keep going you are the best
Hi Luke, good video with a lot of basic information for new hikers/backpackers. There’s a fairly large oversight you made in the basics of safety/communication category. Having a GPS communicator is nice if you could afford it but not necessary. ALWAYS TELL SOMEONE WHERE YOU’RE GOING, WHAT ROUTE YOU ARE TAKING, AND WHEN YOU’RE EXPECTED HOME. This applies to even simpler day hikes. Cheers.
I wish Luke had done a better job of STRONGLY EMPHASIZING that a Personal Locator Beacon is a MUST HAVE, that it's not optional equipment. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada
Yup. I write on a piece of paper at my house what I'm wearing, what I look like, time I left, time I expect to return, tell a few people I trust. Tell people general areas where I will be. Always check the weather. Often have people that come with me say I'm too over prepared (cos weight carrying reasons). Yeah, I've got to simplify things some more. I have an ever diminishing budget to be able to afford fancy GPS devices and am unplugging when I go out and starting to leave my phone behind. It's too distracting and defeats the purpose of me even being out there in the first place. I want to rely on less material things, not more.
Hello 👋 Luke, thank you for sharing this informative video. You covered All the bases. I've referred this video to friends. All the best to you and Susie. Stay safe out there. 😊😊
nice tips. I would also say for safety, a personal locator beacon is high recommended. if your solo and get hurt, best way to get help. some places may have spotty cell service.
Idk if you’ve done a video about this (if you have I haven’t seen it) but I’d love to learn more about how you handle wildlife you’ve encountered, especially dangerous ones like bears, snakes, etc. Thanks for the great, entertaining videos. It’s been many years (25+) since I’ve been camping, but watching your videos is giving me the courage and desire to go back out again!
I would also suggest any local trails in your area, town or city, but check with the town/city authorities to see if it is allowed before you go and do it because of the homeless situation. They may not want people camping on any of the trails within the town/city boundaries, although I could also be wrong too. It doesn’t hurt to check first. Something else to consider in regards to the trail you take is if they allow bicycles, if they do and you take your bike with you then you can pack more gear in the saddle bags
Luke you should have covered the most important thing about backpacking, taking care of your feet. If you don't have good, well fitting shoes and socks, your hike can be a nightmare. Getting a blister early on a hike will ruin what would have otherwise been an incredible trip. I'm speaking from experience on this one.
I also recommend talking about solid footwear. Tennis shoes won't make it. This is a critical issue for me. I can't walk 300 yards with bad shoes. Also shoe care. I once had to make some field scavenged crutches/walking sticks to get home. An honorable mention, also, of WHY you don't wear blue jeans!!! Thanks for the advise.
Luke I wear 3EW shoes and struggle to find hiking boots that fit my feet. Any brands that you can recommend for individuals like myself would be appreciated!
All good stuff Luke👍👍 Lots of info to digest and not be overwhelmed, especially if just starting out. Nobody ever said it was going to be easy... Each category you mentioned deserves its own video actually, maybe broken down into sub categories. A new series?
I found this video very informative. I am new and looking for something in my life. Thank you for the info. I will definitely remember it. Keep on doing your thing Sir!!! Awesome!!!
A great video Luke, with excellent tips. My biggest hurdle, ever since the mini-stroke has been the lack of feeling on my entire left side. I can deal with the memory loss caused the radiation. But when your on a narrow trail, or even a site with lots of roots, it can be a bit scary. My family has asked that I purchase an in-Reach device; if my choice is to resume solo camping after almost a decade off. Cheers ya.
Get the In Reach and keep on living your life. I don't have those problems, but I am 50 years old and have a terrible back and both sides of my family have heart problems. Just the other day I was on the trail and while I stopped to rest a bit I began seriously contemplating what I was doing and the likelihood of my heart giving out one day and dropping dead on the trail and was I okay with dying like that. The conclusion I reached is that that's not likely to happen, but if it did I don't think I would want to go out any other way. What actually concerned me the most, other than how my family would go on without me, was how inconvenient it would be for whomever happened upon my dead body. Sometimes I think I should pin a little note on my pack telling them to feel free to pick through my gear and take whatever they want for the trouble I caused them.
There is a very important part of camping. Find a locaiton that is secure, and/or pack your own security. Depending where you are staying it may be a very important part of your gear. Also, set up security motion lifhts battery operated. You get the idea.
To alter one point for backpacking in places you have to hang a bear bag. Locate a spot and prepare to hang your bag(you don't have to hang it yet, just have line ready). It is much easier to set up a tent in the dark than it is to prep your bag to hang.
I have quite some experience camping in my region in Europe. Still when I go to camp abroad I consider myself as a nub and I have learned a lot from people who know the specific challenges that come with their part of the world. Thank you, Luke, for your refreshing point of view 👌
There is a large differences depending on where you live in the world. I'm not too far from Luke and my conditions are much like his, but then I've had a few outings in the Slovak High Tatras with my father in law and it's an entirely different ball game. If I tried to use the cold weather gear I use in the NC mountains in the Slovak mountains I would die.
Learned a lot of these as a kid, but need to rebuild them. I have a decent tent, bag, and pad (could be better, it's 30+ years old, air not foam), and tools. Still need that stove at some point, and the rest I can get together pretty quick.
All Trails is a great app, and not only for researching and recording your hikes. On two occasions, I have lost the trail (once in the desert due to missing trail markers, and once during a mountain hike where snow squalls covered the trail during the hike); using All Trails, I was able to find landmarks described to regain the trail, or simply use the GPS to make a b-line back to the trailhead.
Funny, I often carry a needle decompression kit in my medical supplies. Tape, a large bore needle, Gauze pad, and an alcohol wipe. Not to much and everything is a multi use item, except maybe the needle. But I am trained, so that makes a difference. Now a drain kit, might just be a bit too much. With that said, I have only run into the need a couple of times, and never on the trail. But it could happen. You need to assess your risks vs need, and then decide if the following applies: "Better to have it and not need it, rather than the other way around"
This man speaks truth. If this is what you want to do. I grew up on this lifestyle, moving on to being cold weather, high altitude, (operations above 5000 feet,) US Army Infantry, as a career choice. First, start out in campgrounds! Bring all you need, and the socialization, with fellow campers is invaluable. Next, when planning an adventure, avoid going alone! Numbers reduce redundancy in gear, from tents to stoves and cookware, everyone carries less. More heads are better than one, and again, the social aspect makes everything easier. I grew up in a more social era, and for outdoor adventures, unless you're highly experienced, numbers are the way to go! Much more fun! Make an effort, to meet likeminded friends. I highly discourage doing anything at high altitude, or deep forest adventures alone.
Quilt > Sleeping bag. Additional food - I make/take plenty of jerky or pemmican. Bear - I carry a 10mm, (but I carry a firearm all the time and have for 20 years...I'm a country boy. I'll just kill it before I give it a chance to get near me or my daughter). Dead on about practicing nearby. Long before I took my first trip, I started just walking nature trails and my usual workout routine. Then I used my day/hunting pack with a light load and hit those same trails (I'm lucky enough to have huge state parks (2 of them, one 5 minutes away and another 20 minutes away). Worked my weight up over time.
I tend to agree about the foid and 3 course meals except that when I was kid my family and my aunts family wen we went camping we packed meats, veggies, etc. For 8 people for a week. We fished for meals as well. Only a couple of times did we run out and the moms had to run to nearest store. And definitely a routine is needed. The 4 adults set up camp and us 4 kids got wood. They kept the camp clean we got wood every day. Miss those days. Spent many Christmas vacations in the woods.
A lot of good info. There is so many make videos who have no idea what they are talking about and are passing it off as the word of god. If you are a New Be watch it again, go out for an over nighter and come back home and watch a third time. Remember what does not kill you will make you paranoid. Learn from your paranoia. Every person starts life as a beginner. at some time in their life in some new adventure, be it learning a new language or heading into the back country.
This is the kind of information my family needs problem I face is being in the foothills of nc with limited cell phone service in most places to go hiking
Great video Luke , The advice to go on day hikes first is a great tip. But beware ...it's addicting !! (it's also a great low impact way to build strength and endurance) Trailrunners vs boots would be an interesting topic for another video ;)
Hey Luke; I have been watching your videos for years now and I have only seen you do one review on footwear, I also watch a lot of hiking videos, especially long-distance hikers, and notice all of them wear Trail Runners instead of hiking boots, especially the Altra Lone Pine series, I know it's a little late in the year there to test them for you but I would love to see next spring or summer see you test some of them.
Loved the comment about the tarp, I can't count how many times the weather forecast was a chance of light rain, and it turned out to be a downpour. My tent probably would have been fine, but I had a tarp over it for good measure and extra peace of mind.
Exactly! I went out last night and it was no rain what so ever. Guess what happened? Turned out I didn’t stretch my fly enough and after a whole night of rain the fly stretched and started sagging onto the inner mesh. And we all know what happens after that.
I usually test a load out buy packing my backpack full of stuff I can carry but truck camping and putting all the extra stuff in my truck and only pulling out stuff I REALLY need. If I pull something it goes in a box and I try to find a lighter alternative or it just gets added.
Any reputable brand has a recommendable synthetic bag, just compare temps, weights and pack sizes to find the best one in your price range. If you're warm weather camping, like 55f+, just about anything will do. My go-to warm weather bag is a cheap 50f Walmart bag I bought at a thrift store for $5 and I'm pretty anal about sleeping gear, but in higher temperatures it's just not that critical. In cold weather, say high 30s and below, synthetic bags start to become too big and heavy to be practical. Synthetic isn't more reliable, though. It works better than down if it gets wet, but it's also much heavier and bulkier and is much more prone to losing loft from repeated compression than down is. If you're in a situation where, say, your foot box is touching the tent wall and picking up condensation, simply putting a trash bag over it solves that problem.
One thing you didn’t mention was security. If you can near your car yes you have that but if you’re backpacking, how do you protect yourself. You can’t carry a gun in every state. I think you should do a video on making sure you’re safe by yourself while in the outdoors.
I'd also suggest being honest with yourself about any phobias or limitations you might have. In my case I thought I only had a mild fear of heights until suddenly encountering a thin path with nothing to grab onto on the side of a sheer rock wall with thousands of feet of sudden drop-off. I did not continue on that hike (and I'm glad I didn't force myself to do it), although I think with the right mindset and controlled conditioning it can be overcome
Hi Luke, what’s the name of the tent that you have with your picture for this video? Looks like a Naturehike, perhaps? Thanks and keep up the great reviews.
I expected good gear summary for new people but this is excellent, right to the core of problems for inexperienced people. You want to start as pleasant and safe as possible and your only problem need to be laughing when you fail with tarp/tent setups and so on. It is so sad when you loose new member of community after their first experience due to stupid following what they see in some RUclips videos.
I ride a mountain bike in the desert and the biggest differences from hiking are (1) weight is much less important, and (2) carry things with which to repair the bike, e.g. spare tube, CO2, quicklink for the chain, and hex wrenches. Since you can go much further than a typical hiker, walking out is a real chore.
People who rely solely on technology for navigation are the first to get in trouble. Tech doesn't work all the time for a verity of reasons . It is recommended to learn how to use a compass , Map stick and a rock and/or a watch(Analog) to navigate.
The ONE item I suggest that's with me every time is Vaseline. It helps with any dry skin, makes a great fire starter when put on tinder, relieves jock itch, and the best one, stops bleeding in small wounds in it's TRACKS....same trick boxing cut men use on boxers with a cut. For the sleeping bag it's simple, let it get cold and test your bag, nobody is the same, the actual comfort rating will vary. Whatever temp you start getting chilled, add 10 degrees and that's your bare minimum.
How's that wood stove/oven ? My main concern is I need very low smoke smell as me and my equipment is sensitive to smoke. I plan on living in a geodome/tent but also want the option to have it for camping/fishing using my surron e/dirt bike. Do you think this means I'll need one of the Backpack wood burners for my hot tent. I love the rain and snow.
Thanks!
Thank you luke , my late hubby and I practiced in a apartment setting up tent and using equipment . That was before cellphone internet world. Cooking with camp stoves on the porch balcony all in safety.
1. Today, I realized just how soothing your videos are on a Sunday afternoon.
2. I agree that setting up routines is a good way to minimize the chance of catastrophic blunders. However, I believe one must consciously follow it because automatically following a routine can lead to mistakes.
3. In my experience, just because someone has done a lot of hikes (or bike rides) without mishap does not make them "experienced." - one must learn from them.
I love your point about doing psuedo-shakedown day hikes before a backpacking trip. That is how I learned that my bag really didn't fit my body well and I needed to buy another before my first trip a long time ago. If I hadn't taken those day hikes, I would have set myself up for a miserable experience, and probably even injury given how my pack fit on me. Most likely would have been a horrible first impression of backpacking and I probably wouldn't have continued doing it.
On my local trails that I bike, I often run across people hiking dry runs with their gear. The round trip on the trail is 10-12 miles tops in both sun and shade.
it is the same with buying a motor home or a camping trailer I have seen people buy a brand new camper and a pickup to pull it and all the necessities and pack up the wife and four kids and the first trip is a thousand miles or more out to Yellowstone national park or something like that and they had never pulled a trailer in their lives especially one with a high center of gravity not too mention having no idea how to setup the camper and I have seen them come home after the frustration of the first trip and sell everything and never go camping again so yes I agree make some short trips too local campgrounds and even setup in your own back yard and get used too your equipment and get used too having everyone cramped in the vehicle for long distances and so on and please watch some camping edict before you go so you don’t make a bunch of people mad at you like coming into a campground where there are 150 camp sites and only one other camper in the park and you setup in the site right next to them this has happened too us when we started camping back in the early 70’s and what we did back then is my dad went too the local company who owned the busses that hauled the local kids to school everyday and bought a old school bus that had been retired and the driver got a new one well the one he came home with happened to be the same one that me and my four siblings had been riding too school for years and we helped my dad convert it from a school bus into a camper and sand the outside down and paint it we had fun doing that and our first outing with it was a hundred mile ride up to some relatives house in northern Wisconsin and we spent a weekend getting used too living in the camper
Makes sense for gear and physically. You don't see long distance runners come off the bench cold and start a race.
As someone who’s just getting started this is much appreciated. I personally skipped the campground stuff tho. Too crowded, too loud and if I did that, might as well camp at the Walmart parking lot. Being out by myself doesn’t bother me. Found some dispersed camping sites I’ve been staying at to build my skill, easy in, easy out and 15 minutes max from the closest town so if I forgot anything, quick trip to pick it up. I learned this weekend that I SUCK at putting up a tarp. You make it look so easy. I’d pay you for lessons on setting up and tearing down tarps! But instead I’m gonna keep trying until I get it. I’d really appreciate more tips for things like this. My goal is to hike into the backcountry for an overnight adventure.
This was an amazing video, Luke. I have literally ran into all of the issues you listed. As a kid we would camp or overnight backpack maybe once a year and now as an adult, I have decided to take it up again. My younger nephew really enjoys being out camping and fishing, so he is my tag-along buddy on most of these trips. His dad left early in his life and I have been the fill in adult male in his life to teach him what it means to be a good person and to show him what its like to 'rough it' in the outdoors so he understands what hardship is and can grow from it, I am extremely proud of him. We used to bring everything imaginable in the back of the car, but as we gain experience we are really paring it down to just the things we need; its a real eye opener what you can do without and what is worth bringing (a deck of cards is amazing).
I recently hit the big 4-0 and decided that I didn't want to actually feel my age, so I cut the sugary drinks out, started lifting weights again and walking twice a day and I have already lost 20 pounds and am feeling better by the day. This is giving me the confidence in the short term to look at going on an overnight backpacking trip again, its only 4 miles each way but its tough for someone like me who has not focused on cardio in probably a decade and has always had extra weight around the middle; climbing those hills kills me. Long term my aim is to try to draw an elk tag out west in the next 2-3 years (bucket list dream) and be in good enough shape that I can go and not croak while scaling mountains. 😄
Thank you for reminding me how great the outdoors is Luke. (Suzie too! Your western driving trips together are so fun to watch)
Thanks for stepping up and showing him how to be a true man🤙
Luke, this is another fine educational episode from you, packed with so much good advise and common sense; a very concise and detailed compilation that I'm sure will help a lot of people. Thank you so much!
I have watched your videos for a while and do not consider myself a nub by any means, but you video is relatable for anyone. There is always things we forget or overlook, you hindsight is more than welcomed for anyone with an open mind and clear head. Being aware is something you mention often and is so true. The video makes it clear on so many levels. Thank you.
Been camping for over sixty years and that was a lot of really good information. Great video Luke .
I'd say a warm mat is as important, if not more, than a warm sleeping bag. Good episode and to the newcomers, hike your own hike.
Luke, this is a great video. Thanks for sharing! I am learning more about the basics, as I ALWAYS carry way too much when car camping. I am hoping to learn more so I can do a canoe/kayak overnight trip next year with my buddies.
There are lots of basic backpacking videos out there but this is one of the best I've ever seen. Well done!
Your remarks on making mistakes and learning from them are very helpful.
Good video Luke, lots of information that is very useful to keep camping safe. My first rain issue: I did check the weather forecast and made the campsite reservation 2 days in advance. I checked the weather and 3-day forecast the morning of trip. It was like rain 0%,0%,2% basically showed sun marks for the 3-days. The second day, 0% rain forecasted day, around 5 PM we were in the car for 45 minutes as a deluge came down wiping out our camp fire that we were to cook on and made everything muddy! I was worried our tent might be flooded or at least water on the sleeping bags. Much to my surprise no water made it inside, though my camp shoes I had in the vestibule were soaked and the outside of the tent on one side was muddy from all the splashing the rain made. That night we ended up cooking with our small backpacking stoves. We did finish the planned days comfortably. What probably helped is each morning I open up the tent to air it out but I always close it up by noon, so when the rain came the tent was not vulnerable. Just letting people know, be prepared because even with today's communication and technology, 'they' still get the weather wrong at times. Also I never went camping without a tarp after that as I would have much rather been under a tarp than in the car during that rain.
Great tips Luke and thanks for putting the vid together and passing on your knowledge. My boys (13 and 14) have already been on an overnight school camp (2 nights cabin and one in a tent) which a good introduction to "roughing it" - cooking your own meals, toilet planning, packing the gear back up. The school camps get longer for nights in a tent as they go through each year. I'm planning to do the shake-down of their camping gear in our own backyard at first in a range of weather (hot/cold, dry/wet) before they head out for real so they'll know what to expect when camping for real. The house is out of bounds so they'll have to use their own initiative and use what they have. It should be an eye-opener as to what's needed and what isn't. Keep the vids coming!
That was very well done and thank you. Your passion to help others succeed is incredible. You and Susie really are the best on RUclips, hands down.
Hi Luke really interesting and informative content even though don’t live in US it’s all helpful for UK Steve
Best video in awhile & great advice. I'm 69 and recently got back into hiking & backpacking. Something else you can do to prepare ... many cities have walking paths. Use them to condition your body to carrying a loaded pack before you go out in the woods.
I love listening to your stories your advice , you should be proud of yourself and your wife and family well balanced grounded folk . I hope you keep going you are the best
Thanks for the video. I will watch the reruns before every trip I go out on. Yes, I'm a noob. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge.
Excellent video Luke I think you hit all the basics.
Hi Luke, good video with a lot of basic information for new hikers/backpackers. There’s a fairly large oversight you made in the basics of safety/communication category. Having a GPS communicator is nice if you could afford it but not necessary. ALWAYS TELL SOMEONE WHERE YOU’RE GOING, WHAT ROUTE YOU ARE TAKING, AND WHEN YOU’RE EXPECTED HOME. This applies to even simpler day hikes. Cheers.
I was thinking the exact same thing.
I re-watched the section to make sure I didn’t miss anything before I added a comment.
I wish Luke had done a better job of STRONGLY EMPHASIZING that a Personal Locator Beacon is a MUST HAVE, that it's not optional equipment.
Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada
Yup. I write on a piece of paper at my house what I'm wearing, what I look like, time I left, time I expect to return, tell a few people I trust. Tell people general areas where I will be. Always check the weather. Often have people that come with me say I'm too over prepared (cos weight carrying reasons). Yeah, I've got to simplify things some more.
I have an ever diminishing budget to be able to afford fancy GPS devices and am unplugging when I go out and starting to leave my phone behind. It's too distracting and defeats the purpose of me even being out there in the first place.
I want to rely on less material things, not more.
@@StephenMcGregor1986 I don't even own a so-called "Smart" phone & my water carry system is "old school", bladder, drink tube, & bite valve.
Hello 👋 Luke, thank you for sharing this informative video. You covered All the bases. I've referred this video to friends. All the best to you and Susie. Stay safe out there. 😊😊
Great guidance
We're all on our own journey!
Safe travels
nice tips. I would also say for safety, a personal locator beacon is high recommended. if your solo and get hurt, best way to get help. some places may have spotty cell service.
I also included my thought that Luke should have done a better job of STRONGLY EMPHASIZING that a Personal Locator Beacon is MUST HAVE equipment.
Thank you for being honest and reassuring.
Thankyou for all that you share.
Idk if you’ve done a video about this (if you have I haven’t seen it) but I’d love to learn more about how you handle wildlife you’ve encountered, especially dangerous ones like bears, snakes, etc. Thanks for the great, entertaining videos. It’s been many years (25+) since I’ve been camping, but watching your videos is giving me the courage and desire to go back out again!
Thanks luke🙂 I love camping. It's one if the few things I can afford to do
Great video Luke, I'd love to see you expand on this and make it a series.
Thanks for sharing all of this it makes me feel better to go out now
Thank you for the important info on camping and hiking. Great video. Thank you for sharing.👍
This video is awesome and packed with great advice. Your experience comes through. Well done, my friend!
I would also suggest any local trails in your area, town or city, but check with the town/city authorities to see if it is allowed before you go and do it because of the homeless situation.
They may not want people camping on any of the trails within the town/city boundaries, although I could also be wrong too. It doesn’t hurt to check first.
Something else to consider in regards to the trail you take is if they allow bicycles, if they do and you take your bike with you then you can pack more gear in the saddle bags
Excellent video. This should be a must watch video!
Thanks, Luke! I was hoping you would make this video for noobs! As with all your vids, all are packed with very useful info!
Great video! Thanks for all of the great information for all of us newbies!
Thank you for the honesty and advice.
Thank you for letting people know what they need to know. I can't go camping, I camp with you and Susie. I will go to the backyard to camp
Wow...Excellent tips in a Rapid - fire fashion😆, no fluff and to the point.👍
Luke you should have covered the most important thing about backpacking, taking care of your feet. If you don't have good, well fitting shoes and socks, your hike can be a nightmare. Getting a blister early on a hike will ruin what would have otherwise been an incredible trip. I'm speaking from experience on this one.
Exactly. Good footwear is so important on a trip like this.
I also recommend talking about solid footwear. Tennis shoes won't make it. This is a critical issue for me. I can't walk 300 yards with bad shoes. Also shoe care. I once had to make some field scavenged crutches/walking sticks to get home. An honorable mention, also, of WHY you don't wear blue jeans!!! Thanks for the advise.
Luke I wear 3EW shoes and struggle to find hiking boots that fit my feet. Any brands that you can recommend for individuals like myself would be appreciated!
All good stuff Luke👍👍 Lots of info to digest and not be overwhelmed, especially if just starting out. Nobody ever said it was going to be easy... Each category you mentioned deserves its own video actually, maybe broken down into sub categories. A new series?
I absolutely loved this video. As always I learn from all your videos. Thank you so much.
Luke true words spoken and excellent advice 👍👍👍
I found this video very informative. I am new and looking for something in my life. Thank you for the info. I will definitely remember it. Keep on doing your thing Sir!!! Awesome!!!
Thank you for your advice lots of helpful points
Hey Luke. Awesome, love the the info.
A great video Luke, with excellent tips. My biggest hurdle, ever since the mini-stroke has been the lack of feeling on my entire left side. I can deal with the memory loss caused the radiation. But when your on a narrow trail, or even a site with lots of roots, it can be a bit scary. My family has asked that I purchase an in-Reach device; if my choice is to resume solo camping after almost a decade off. Cheers ya.
Get the In Reach and keep on living your life. I don't have those problems, but I am 50 years old and have a terrible back and both sides of my family have heart problems. Just the other day I was on the trail and while I stopped to rest a bit I began seriously contemplating what I was doing and the likelihood of my heart giving out one day and dropping dead on the trail and was I okay with dying like that. The conclusion I reached is that that's not likely to happen, but if it did I don't think I would want to go out any other way. What actually concerned me the most, other than how my family would go on without me, was how inconvenient it would be for whomever happened upon my dead body. Sometimes I think I should pin a little note on my pack telling them to feel free to pick through my gear and take whatever they want for the trouble I caused them.
There is a very important part of camping. Find a locaiton that is secure, and/or pack your own security. Depending where you are staying it may be a very important part of your gear. Also, set up security motion lifhts battery operated. You get the idea.
To alter one point for backpacking in places you have to hang a bear bag. Locate a spot and prepare to hang your bag(you don't have to hang it yet, just have line ready). It is much easier to set up a tent in the dark than it is to prep your bag to hang.
I have quite some experience camping in my region in Europe. Still when I go to camp abroad I consider myself as a nub and I have learned a lot from people who know the specific challenges that come with their part of the world. Thank you, Luke, for your refreshing point of view 👌
There is a large differences depending on where you live in the world. I'm not too far from Luke and my conditions are much like his, but then I've had a few outings in the Slovak High Tatras with my father in law and it's an entirely different ball game. If I tried to use the cold weather gear I use in the NC mountains in the Slovak mountains I would die.
So true, different places are different. Good reminder
Acclimatization can play a huge factor too.
Plus when you're a newbie which is good you are less judgmental which is also good that opens your mind up to new ideas
Learned a lot of these as a kid, but need to rebuild them. I have a decent tent, bag, and pad (could be better, it's 30+ years old, air not foam), and tools. Still need that stove at some point, and the rest I can get together pretty quick.
All Trails is a great app, and not only for researching and recording your hikes. On two occasions, I have lost the trail (once in the desert due to missing trail markers, and once during a mountain hike where snow squalls covered the trail during the hike); using All Trails, I was able to find landmarks described to regain the trail, or simply use the GPS to make a b-line back to the trailhead.
Funny, I often carry a needle decompression kit in my medical supplies. Tape, a large bore needle, Gauze pad, and an alcohol wipe. Not to much and everything is a multi use item, except maybe the needle.
But I am trained, so that makes a difference.
Now a drain kit, might just be a bit too much.
With that said, I have only run into the need a couple of times, and never on the trail. But it could happen. You need to assess your risks vs need, and then decide if the following applies:
"Better to have it and not need it, rather than the other way around"
The cabin video on wolf mountain was cool
When the sun goes down, the mind can run wild. Just remember one thing. The night is dark and full of terrors.
Thanks Luke this really helped.
Thank you. Excellent for a beginner like me.
This man speaks truth. If this is what you want to do. I grew up on this lifestyle, moving on to being cold weather, high altitude, (operations above 5000 feet,) US Army Infantry, as a career choice. First, start out in campgrounds! Bring all you need, and the socialization, with fellow campers is invaluable. Next, when planning an adventure, avoid going alone! Numbers reduce redundancy in gear, from tents to stoves and cookware, everyone carries less. More heads are better than one, and again, the social aspect makes everything easier. I grew up in a more social era, and for outdoor adventures, unless you're highly experienced, numbers are the way to go! Much more fun! Make an effort, to meet likeminded friends. I highly discourage doing anything at high altitude, or deep forest adventures alone.
What a great informative video. Many people will benefit. You da MAN.
I'm only watching this video cause I've already watched everything else that Luke has put up thanks Luke ur awesome bro
Quilt > Sleeping bag. Additional food - I make/take plenty of jerky or pemmican. Bear - I carry a 10mm, (but I carry a firearm all the time and have for 20 years...I'm a country boy. I'll just kill it before I give it a chance to get near me or my daughter). Dead on about practicing nearby. Long before I took my first trip, I started just walking nature trails and my usual workout routine. Then I used my day/hunting pack with a light load and hit those same trails (I'm lucky enough to have huge state parks (2 of them, one 5 minutes away and another 20 minutes away). Worked my weight up over time.
Very comprehensive Luke.
Thanks for all the good info!
I tend to agree about the foid and 3 course meals except that when I was kid my family and my aunts family wen we went camping we packed meats, veggies, etc. For 8 people for a week. We fished for meals as well. Only a couple of times did we run out and the moms had to run to nearest store. And definitely a routine is needed. The 4 adults set up camp and us 4 kids got wood. They kept the camp clean we got wood every day. Miss those days. Spent many Christmas vacations in the woods.
A lot of good info. There is so many make videos who have no idea what they are talking about and are passing it off as the word of god. If you are a New Be watch it again, go out for an over nighter and come back home and watch a third time. Remember what does not kill you will make you paranoid. Learn from your paranoia. Every person starts life as a beginner. at some time in their life in some new adventure, be it learning a new language or heading into the back country.
Great video, Luke. Lots of good information in this one, as always.
Thank you for this video. Answered so many questions
Excellent !!!
This is the kind of information my family needs problem I face is being in the foothills of nc with limited cell phone service in most places to go hiking
Great video Luke ,
The advice to go on day hikes first is a great tip.
But beware ...it's addicting !! (it's also a great low impact way to build strength and endurance)
Trailrunners vs boots would be an interesting topic for another video ;)
Yeah do a laying system from the different type of clothes and materials .
Great lesson to know
Another Great Video!!!
Hey Luke; I have been watching your videos for years now and I have only seen you do one review on footwear, I also watch a lot of hiking videos, especially long-distance hikers, and notice all of them wear Trail Runners instead of hiking boots, especially the Altra Lone Pine series, I know it's a little late in the year there to test them for you but I would love to see next spring or summer see you test some of them.
Loved the comment about the tarp, I can't count how many times the weather forecast was a chance of light rain, and it turned out to be a downpour. My tent probably would have been fine, but I had a tarp over it for good measure and extra peace of mind.
Exactly! I went out last night and it was no rain what so ever. Guess what happened? Turned out I didn’t stretch my fly enough and after a whole night of rain the fly stretched and started sagging onto the inner mesh. And we all know what happens after that.
Thank you tons❤
Have you ever considered getting trained and certified in search and rescue sir?
I usually test a load out buy packing my backpack full of stuff I can carry but truck camping and putting all the extra stuff in my truck and only pulling out stuff I REALLY need. If I pull something it goes in a box and I try to find a lighter alternative or it just gets added.
Good, actually great information.
Awesome Information!! Great Video 📹 👍..
Luke this is a fantastic video
Thanks
Great advice, but I wish you had reccomended a synthetic bag for those new to hiking as they're much more reliable.
Any reputable brand has a recommendable synthetic bag, just compare temps, weights and pack sizes to find the best one in your price range. If you're warm weather camping, like 55f+, just about anything will do. My go-to warm weather bag is a cheap 50f Walmart bag I bought at a thrift store for $5 and I'm pretty anal about sleeping gear, but in higher temperatures it's just not that critical. In cold weather, say high 30s and below, synthetic bags start to become too big and heavy to be practical.
Synthetic isn't more reliable, though. It works better than down if it gets wet, but it's also much heavier and bulkier and is much more prone to losing loft from repeated compression than down is. If you're in a situation where, say, your foot box is touching the tent wall and picking up condensation, simply putting a trash bag over it solves that problem.
When it comes to the first aid kit, carry what you know how to use, but if you're carrying a "pew" you should carry a more advanced kit.
One thing you didn’t mention was security. If you can near your car yes you have that but if you’re backpacking, how do you protect yourself. You can’t carry a gun in every state.
I think you should do a video on making sure you’re safe by yourself while in the outdoors.
Great video, necessary for sure!
I'd also suggest being honest with yourself about any phobias or limitations you might have. In my case I thought I only had a mild fear of heights until suddenly encountering a thin path with nothing to grab onto on the side of a sheer rock wall with thousands of feet of sudden drop-off. I did not continue on that hike (and I'm glad I didn't force myself to do it), although I think with the right mindset and controlled conditioning it can be overcome
Great shear TY
HI LUKE 👋
THANK YOU 🙏 BE SAFE ! HAVE FUN ! ENJOYED 🍨 🍨 🍨 🍨 🍨 🍨 🍨 🍨 🍨 🍨 GOD BLESS YOU BOTH ALWAYS ON YOUR ADVENTURES 🙏 ❤
Good one. Solid stuff.
Hi Luke , just waiting for the other temu tent , still on my mind .... 😂
Hi Luke, what’s the name of the tent that you have with your picture for this video? Looks like a Naturehike, perhaps? Thanks and keep up the great reviews.
I expected good gear summary for new people but this is excellent, right to the core of problems for inexperienced people. You want to start as pleasant and safe as possible and your only problem need to be laughing when you fail with tarp/tent setups and so on. It is so sad when you loose new member of community after their first experience due to stupid following what they see in some RUclips videos.
Great advice as always. I am trying ebiking and a lot if what you said applies to this as well. Very inspiring !
I ride a mountain bike in the desert and the biggest differences from hiking are (1) weight is much less important, and (2) carry things with which to repair the bike, e.g. spare tube, CO2, quicklink for the chain, and hex wrenches. Since you can go much further than a typical hiker, walking out is a real chore.
Excellent point@@brucewarren5248
People who rely solely on technology for navigation are the first to get in trouble. Tech doesn't work all the time for a verity of reasons . It is recommended to learn how to use a compass , Map stick and a rock and/or a watch(Analog) to navigate.
The ONE item I suggest that's with me every time is Vaseline. It helps with any dry skin, makes a great fire starter when put on tinder, relieves jock itch, and the best one, stops bleeding in small wounds in it's TRACKS....same trick boxing cut men use on boxers with a cut. For the sleeping bag it's simple, let it get cold and test your bag, nobody is the same, the actual comfort rating will vary. Whatever temp you start getting chilled, add 10 degrees and that's your bare minimum.
what about wild boars? Are they real danger to tent campers in the middle of the night?
How's that wood stove/oven ? My main concern is I need very low smoke smell as me and my equipment is sensitive to smoke. I plan on living in a geodome/tent but also want the option to have it for camping/fishing using my surron e/dirt bike. Do you think this means I'll need one of the Backpack wood burners for my hot tent. I love the rain and snow.