I just did my first backpacking hike. I'm not in great shape and I weigh over 300LBS. I was carrying 15L of water and way too much gear. It was only 1 mile to the camp site over uneven terrain, but it was really hard for me. But I sure learned a lot during my time out there. I've since reduced my pack weight and invested in some better gear. I can't wait for my next trip. I know 1 mile is nothing, but for me it was hard...and I didn't give up. And now I want to push myself further. Wish me luck.
1 mile is fabulous! Don’t let anyone tell you any different. You did wonderfully! Even if you only do one more step each time, you might be surprised how quickly that adds up.
The nice thing about starting out is that you can really see progress very fast in the beginning. Beginning of the year, I was totally out of shape. I started cycling and had to push the bike up some small hills because it was too much for me, even in first gear. A few months later, I am overtaking normal weight people in third gear on the same hill. Feels awesome. Now I started running, after the first run, my muscles were sore for days. Only three weeks later, I can do the same distance and have no sore muscles the next day.
My two tips would be.. 1, water. Even in winter or when it’s raining, you need to maintain hydration. Just because it’s not a blazing July day outside, doesn’t mean you don’t need to think of hydration. 2, know your limit. A new hiker might be keen but most of them just aren’t up to going from sofa warrior > 20 mile day hiker. Here in the U.K. I’d always advise taking some money for public transport back to civilisation, if a turned ankle, fatigue or blisters get too much. Cheers Jeremiah!
As a former SAR Specialist and explorer of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert myself, I strongly suggest an EPIRb (emergency personal locator rescue beacon) device. They can be purchased for less that $250 now. Lightweight and WILL save your life in an emergency.
When camping in cold weather, at least cold nights, put the clothes you plan on wearing for the next day in your sleeping bag, same with water bottles. Nothing worse than putting on cold clothes and having frozen water in the morning.
The first time I went backpacking and the weather drop below freezing, I left my filter outside and it froze solid. Learned my lesson. Now I put it in a ziplock bag and bring it in the sleeping bag with me.
Nobody told me that it would hurt like hell, yet somehow I would feel compelled, almost obligated, to press on. And on. And on. And on.. Nobody told me what an addiction it would become.
Thanks! I enjoy your style in this video. I WAS told to wear long johns on my first winter hike at 13yrs, but I wouldn't. At 59 I have them on from Nov-March.
Just started the Backpacking Podcast this afternoon. Only one episode in and loved it. I'm a Kentuckian and love the gorge, especially Miguel's. Can't wait to follow more of yours and John's adventures. Thanks for sharing the info.
Hey Brother! My tip is you will meet the greatest people out on the trail! My wife, our dogs, and I just ran into you, Jason, and Dan at Hanson's Point today. That was cool for us! Thank you for all the information, entertainment, and inspiration! We appreciate all your efforts! Thanks for being so cool to us and spending a little of your time to speak with us. Take care and God bless!
What up?! So great meeting you all this morning. Love seeing you all get out and take the pups along :D Very jealous of how close you are to the gorge lol Hope you all had a great hike!! God bless you all
We love living out here, but our daily commutes are longer, LOL! However, we wouldn't have it any other way! We had a great hike and you all made it way better! We hope you all are having a blast! Thanks for giving us the knowledge on how to start off successfully. It has meant more to us than I can convey. We have day hiked some before, but never backpacked.
Being out there, will show you how you really act when stressed. Even with the bests of friends, been in a few arguments over locations, emergency decisions. Need to be on the same page as whoever's with you. Especially while off-roading in 4WDS
@@JeremiahStringer love the video though, definitely gave me a couple pointers to remember, Ive been guilty of being the guy with an enormous knife 🤣Much love from New Zealand!
The extreme version of getting used to (almost) zero drop - ladies from previous generations who had to wear high heels to work everyday then retired and put on tennis shoes or the like. They wondered why their legs hurt so badly and it was because their calf muscle had shortened over the years. It works whether millimeters or inches. Also, I've heard that true hiker hunger (where you eat all the time) actually takes a couple of weeks of hiking and that a trip of just a few days doesn't actually require a ton more calories. Would you agree that's pretty accurate or have you found otherwise?
I would agree. When I was thru hiking the Long Trail for a month, I ate any and everything when I came into town. On my weekend trips I come back bloated lol
Timely tip on the zero drop shoes. Just went from hiking boots to Altra Lone Peak trail runners. Haven't used them yet. I'll definitely put some miles on them now before actually back packing in them. :)
I learned the Zero drop shoe issue first hand. I walked around in them, but never did "miles" or used them with a pack on before taking them on trail. First time out on trail with them in the Smokies, went 13+ miles. I was hobbling the next morning back to the car. My calfs were shot.
Im genuinely asking out of ignorance, whats the big idea with the ferro rods and all the other fire starters? What do they do that a bic lighter doesn't(and easier)? I have pulled bic lighters out of snow banks that sat for months and they still light every time.
All these videos are a little confusing with what to take and what not to take I've only done 5 mile hikes and over night, but I'm planning on doing part of the Florida trail but worried I'll have to quit by not being prepared enough any advice. Thank you in advance.
The more you go the more comfortable you'll be. I'd get out there and get some nights under my belt in the backcountry. I have a longer video that gives you a good idea of what to expect and very clear on what to take if you wanna know more: ruclips.net/video/dUjuItJpR0k/видео.html
I have been doing yoga for 10 years now so I am used to being barefoot. I have owned a pair of Earth Runner sandals for 3 years now and wear them everyday. It takes time to get used to zero drop.
Did you really enjoy the hand warmer? I bought a pair. I was considering chemical but was afraid of burning myself with no heat regulation. Thanks for the tips.
Food is always tricky. For me, my desire to eat goes DOWN for the first several days on the trail, especially when the temperature is high. My body needs 3 to 5 days to adjust (and I am typically back home in that amount of time). So, I plan on slightly "lighter" meals -- basically, I plan to eat the "suggested serving size." For contingency, I pack one extra meal per day of the trip. For a three day weekend trip, I bring a 4th day of food. That just provides some buffer for wanting extra meals, for an additional "unexpected" night out, or in case food is "lost" (pot knocked over, poptart dropped into rain puddle, and so on).
Budget gear - I don't mind buying budget as I figure out what features that I like/dislike. I'm on my 3rd backpack and 3rd hammock after two years. All but two of those where under $30. Same thing with my flyfishing/flytying equipment - bought budget until I figured out what I wanted/liked. (another potentially expensive hobby) Once I figured out what I liked and disliked, I would 'upgrade' when it came time to replace (wear out, sell, pass on, or keep as a spare) what I had. Zero Drop (and Barefoot) shoes - yes, they take getting used to. I love my Five Finger shoes and Merrell Vapor gloves. I wear them daily and on the trail. Something that no one told me and seems to be kept secret although I have since found a couple (but not many) videos on the subject - How to find established remote campsites. Or how to locate a good spot for a remote campsite. Plenty of information on leave no trace when remote camping, but very little on finding a good spot. Being a hammock camper, it's not a big deal for me now when I solo hike. Take a GPS and/or compass reading and head off trail far enough for the regulations for the area (around here is either 200' or 1/4 mi depending on the location) and find two appropriate trees. :-) But when hiking w/a buddy sometimes finding a remote spot that you can set up camp and enjoy a fire (and leave no trace the next day) can be tough.
That is a great video idea! I think why there is so little info about finding a site like you are saying is because people are afraid of being shamed about LNT. I firmly believe you can apply LNT and find your own remote location for camping. I do it :D
In the white mountains there are many remote used sites. Many don't share them as they don't want them to be over used. (Comments I've seen on forums when others asked about where to camp on trails in the whites - I was searching the forums for the same thing) Most common answer was to go hike and you will find them. Thing is sometimes you do and sometimes you don't and have to make your own. Nothing worse than following a side path hoping for a campsite and it turns out to be a potty path.
Great tips man!! Actually done stuff i hadn't heard before and i watch a fair amount of backpacking channels. Love the Altra tip. I already knew about the money 💰💰 Food isn't a problem... i usually don't bring quite enough! My problem starting out was i couldn't find a lot of info on Backpacking With Kids! Ive been going to compile that info to help others out.
We went the weekend of Jan 23rd and only did about 16 miles. I intended to make a video, but ended up only getting some clips to use in videos like this lol
Nobody told me about waterfilters, so i always brought all the water i would need. Another thing nobody told me was that the 3,5kg 3person tent - that i paid hundreds of dollars for - was way too big and heavy for 1 small, weak, and lazy pothead, lol! Needless to say, i didnt go on "backpacking"/camping trips very often back then, and i never hiked more than a few km...
@@JeremiahStringer Yeah, wont do that again. Now the only "heavy duty" item i got is the Katadyn "Pocket" water filter - which i think is somewhat acceptable after hearing about other water filters breaking, and people having used their Katadyn "Pocket" since the mid 80s..! As long as my baseweight is comfortable, its not really a big deal. Will probably get a Sawyer Squeeze before summer though, and just use the Katadyn Pocket for bikepacking and trips with other people who dont have a waterfilter.
Choose partners with a good attitude...... hardship is where the adventure and great stories come from. I've never had a bad trip in over 50 years of backpacking. I've had to fight my way out through unexpected snow, or been rained on the whole time. I've been with people who had soles fall off their shoes. I've had to feed someone who didn't plan enough food for a long trip, I once had to hike 20 miles out with strep throat........... "zero drop shoes"??? Are people absolutely bonkers!!! On flat ground maybe, but you will destroy your achillies tendon in steep climbs. I only hike in very steep country in the Rockies. Cooking over a campfire is for Boy Scouts on a campout nor for backpackers. It is inconvenient, and time consuming, and gets soot on everything, and makes you and all your gear stink of smoke. I've built fires perhaps 3 times in 50 years, only because of necessity, or in one case because I was with a woman who insisted on a fire. I don't like leaving any sign that I've been there, or being part of a culture that has caused most of the major wildfires in the area. Good lightweight stoves are cheaper and lighter than they have ever been.... buy one and use it!! Popular areas have fire pits everywhere, and every burnable piece of wood has been burned, and live trees girdled so they will be "standing dead" candidates for firewood next year. Don't be just one more a-hole.... there are too many people in the mountains these days "loving them to death". TAKE ONLY PICTURES LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS!!
Just breaking in new Altras. I took a walk of four miles. No hills or anything. That night I had Charlie horse in both legs. OMG! Break them in slowly 😁
Where’s your catchers mitt? Or are you getting ready to ride a motorcycle without a helmet. Maybe it’s windy. Great tips. Same gear rules apply to kayak fishing.
I'm always less hungry out in the woods. I can eat like one packet of instant noodles and thats it and be happy as. Am a chubby person though so I guess my body is just burning excess stored calories.
I'm not really a backpacker, I'm a camper, but I hike from my car to my campsites with all of my gear, which is usually a mile or so, occasionally further. The most important piece of advice I can give to anyone walking any sort of distance with any amount of gear...the most important pieces of gear are your pack and your shoes. With the proper pack, you can carry twice the weight with less exhaustion. With the proper shoes, you can walk twice the distance without any discomfort.
That advise on zero drop shoes applies to any shoe. A multiple day hike is the worst way to try a new shoe. Even if they are great shoes, they can tear up your feet if your feet aren't use to them. I wear minimalist shoes. They take training to learn how to walk in them because they have almost no padding. Their advantages are that they are light, dry quickly, and you can feel the ground you are walking on. That's an example of how each hiker has to figure out what is right for themselves.
No one convinced me how beneficial trekking poles are. I always thought they were nerdy and for older folks. Real deal=they're stabilizers and ankle savers!
@@apathies_therapy And some of us are cancer survivors getting well and using them to get back to what we love doing. You're so right, to each their own as we're all different and have different stories to tell. Glad you were six months no injuries, some of already had our injuries through disease. Use them or don't but don't be an ass about it
Tip: Your feet are going to be sore from the extra weight and uneven terrain. Bring Ibuprofen. I didn't on my first trip and I won't do that ever again. Muscles will likely be sore too, but my feet were screaming.
Tummeric lattes are great as well, highly recommended anti inflammatory, nutrition rich, helps with achey joints. Healthier option. www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2
Honestly really advise against taking too much Ibuprofen and/or on a regular basis. It's a painkiller sure but very bad for your kidneys. Gotta think ahead^^
I know this should be a no brainer but: how cold it is at night sleeping on the ground is not comparable to how cold it is sleeping on a bed. Last night before a hiking trip in summer I was sweating the windows where open it was very hot. So I thought: Why carry a sleeping bag? U gonna sweat anyway... big regret. I camped only 15 km from home the temperature was the same as the night before but I freezed so much I crawled into a plastic poncho at some point
During a day hike I felt a huge temperature drop from one side of a hill (sunny side) to the other (no sun and moist air/soil due to underground springs etc). It was Summer in Australia. I was sweating. Got to other side of hill and took off my shoes to touch earth... Before long my feet got cold, as though I was walking on morning frost. Micro climates definitely make a difference as well.
Thanks Jeremiah -- I enjoy your videos! Another thing to consider is pack weight relative your size. For example, a 30 lb pack is not that much for a 180 lb man; it's just 17% of his body weight. However, 30 lb is 27% for a person who weighs 110 lbs, and that's a lot to carry. Then there's your own level of fitness, etc to consider. Pack according to your own capabilities and comforts.
A technique I learned many years ago for steep up hill climb was to take a momentary "rest" with each step on steep climbs. It is so brief it isn't even visible... It is just a relaxing of your muscles ever so briefly, coordinated with your breathing technique. It does not even actually slow you down. I call it the heart beat pace because your heart similarly rests between beats. When you master that, you will never need to take that break other hikers always do, throwing off their pack and sprawling on the ground because you won't be tired... assuming you know how to pace yourself... You will be the first to the top of the grade even if you pace yourself slower than everybody else, and you will still have energy at the end of the day. Proper pacing, and the use of this technique will enable you to continue day after day, and walk everybody else into the ground!
@@JeremiahStringer I developed the technique in the ‘60’s as a teen hiking the PCT in long segments. I found that the stress from the restart after the classic sprawled out break did not justify stopping any more often than absolutely necessary. Your body winds down, then back up again. It’s like those idiot drivers that accelerate and brake between lights as if it’s a race between traffic lights. When I do break, I try to make it an active break.... does that make sense?
@@stonetoolcompany3649 Please consider doing a tutorial video on your technique. I'm sure if you don't have a channel yourself Jeremiah would be glad to run it for you.......hint, hint, hint!!!!!!
@@charlottedunlay4397 Charlotte: I have none of those kinds of skills.... or inclinations. It is easy to learn this technique for some people. Others just do not have the mindset or focus to recognize that moment and use it as “rest”. It is both physical and psychological. Once you have it, it does not consume your attention at all. It becomes completely natural... a part of how you move like any kind of training. At first you have to think about letting the tension off. It’s probably best to go out completely solo and find that rhythm without the distraction of matching pace with others. I personally like to hike solo even when I’m with a group.... which is seldom.
@@stonetoolcompany3649 Well, it was a good thought. I'm interested in trying it because I want to do the CT this summer. I will be 70 and I think that technique would serve me well. I will do some practicing. Thanks anyway!!
Getting to know my body and its limits has been the hardest part! trying to figure out how many miles is ENOUGH and when to stop! Getting somewhere faster is not worth an injury.
Last tip, be ready to get hooked! No matter what goes wrong, on the way home were always planning the next trip! Just came back this weekend and realized that spring break is coming and we have 2 months to plan and practice. Need a couple of three day trips to get ready! Know where, just need the weather. Time to introduce the kids to backpacking a multiday loop!
I wish there were videos about nighttime on the trail. Hiking during the day and dealing with things in the daytime is so different than being out there camping at night. Thanks!
I volunteer on the AT in Georgia, and we always talk about doing a video series that shows a more balanced viewpoint. Thru hiker videos don’t usually focus on the suck, but Georgia in February/March is wet and cold, tough hiking, and long stretches without rewards like views. We meet a lot of people on trail who just weren’t mentally prepared.
Had to laugh as I went solo backpacking for the first time after a xx year hiatus. Note to self - next time don't have the pack outweigh your age. But still had a great time.
Water, Water, Water....stay hydrated. My first day out moving right along and enjoying the trail but never realized or even though about it until the cramps started, that will never happen again.
A fake what? I mean, it's TV, so obviously kinda fake. Grylls specialise in extreme sport (parachutism, rock climbing and so on), more than pure survival (like Survivorman). He did climd the Everest pretty young. I would love to be as "fake" as him (yeah, during some show he didn't sleep in the shelter he made, I know. As I said, it's TV.).
@@JeremiahStringer ya., man. I appreciate your art. You and the rest of the gang on RUclips seriously inspire me to get out on the trail and back onto the woods.
I always wondered what bonuses he gets for eating something slimy or gross. Like, drinking the water from elephant dung. That had to net him a thousand at least. ;)
Start small. go on walks around town. then a couple days hikes, then a couple overnight hikes. Build-up to the long-distance hikes, your gonna discover muscle pain you did not realize would be there. break in all your shoes/boots before hiking with them. Once you reach the halfway point quitting is not really an option, your hiking out.
I've been thinking about how much food to take also. I'm doing my first 14er in may and I'm thinking I rather have more food than run out of food but for the most part all my food items are light weight. Also I have hiking boots but Im going to switch to a trail runner but Im undecided on which one to buy. Going to REI this week so that will help and That hand warmer is a definite must have for me because I've had Frost bite before and in weather below 20°F my fingers always hurt from the cold. Love your videos, I've learned alot and have gotten some great tips from you, Thanks
Just found your channel brother this is my second of all you've done and love the way you explain and break things down. Thanks and keep up the great work Sir.
If your hands and feet are cold wear a hat. Your body will keep the brain warm first and worry about the rest after. When your head is warm more blood flow will go to the extremities. This goes double when sleeping in the cold. If it's freezing wear a hat.
I just did my first backpacking hike. I'm not in great shape and I weigh over 300LBS. I was carrying 15L of water and way too much gear. It was only 1 mile to the camp site over uneven terrain, but it was really hard for me. But I sure learned a lot during my time out there. I've since reduced my pack weight and invested in some better gear. I can't wait for my next trip. I know 1 mile is nothing, but for me it was hard...and I didn't give up. And now I want to push myself further. Wish me luck.
That is awesome!!! :D
1 mile is fabulous! Don’t let anyone tell you any different. You did wonderfully! Even if you only do one more step each time, you might be surprised how quickly that adds up.
Your 1 mile hike was better than my no-mile hike. Be proud of what you do!
15 liters of water is 33 lbs... that is a lot of weight.
The nice thing about starting out is that you can really see progress very fast in the beginning. Beginning of the year, I was totally out of shape. I started cycling and had to push the bike up some small hills because it was too much for me, even in first gear. A few months later, I am overtaking normal weight people in third gear on the same hill. Feels awesome. Now I started running, after the first run, my muscles were sore for days. Only three weeks later, I can do the same distance and have no sore muscles the next day.
My two tips would be..
1, water. Even in winter or when it’s raining, you need to maintain hydration. Just because it’s not a blazing July day outside, doesn’t mean you don’t need to think of hydration.
2, know your limit. A new hiker might be keen but most of them just aren’t up to going from sofa warrior > 20 mile day hiker. Here in the U.K. I’d always advise taking some money for public transport back to civilisation, if a turned ankle, fatigue or blisters get too much.
Cheers Jeremiah!
Love the tips, Jason!! :D
As a former SAR Specialist and explorer of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert myself, I strongly suggest an EPIRb (emergency personal locator rescue beacon) device. They can be purchased for less that $250 now. Lightweight and WILL save your life in an emergency.
Yes! Absolutely one of the most essentially pieces of gear
And keep it on your person, not in your backpack
@@Flash1857 exactly! Even though we wore Tac vests we still kept it in our BDU arm pocket.
When camping in cold weather, at least cold nights, put the clothes you plan on wearing for the next day in your sleeping bag, same with water bottles. Nothing worse than putting on cold clothes and having frozen water in the morning.
Fantastic advice!
The first time I went backpacking and the weather drop below freezing, I left my filter outside and it froze solid. Learned my lesson. Now I put it in a ziplock bag and bring it in the sleeping bag with me.
@@nagaviper1169 Yup. I learned that lesson the hard way too.
@@Eidolon1andOnly I feel your pain.
That assumes that the clothes are fresh and dry. And they had better be if it is really cold
Sometimes when you think you’re hungry your actually thirsty got to keep hydrated great videos loving them in the uk
That's the truth
Walking uphill is hard but downhill even harder on the body!
So true. I'm tired going uphill but going downhill make me sore.
I totally agree :D
you go up with your muscles, down with your joints.
Trekking poles really help take the jarring out of downhill when used properly.
Yea I have bad knees and barely in my 30s. Downhill kills my knees but downhill mtb is amazing lol.
Nobody told me that it would hurt like hell, yet somehow I would feel compelled, almost obligated, to press on. And on. And on.
And on..
Nobody told me what an addiction it would become.
That's the life :)
The advice about the Zero Drop shoes applies to any shoe or boot used on the trail. Wear them a good bit at home before you rely on them on trips
Great thinking!
That hand warmer is very nice , I am going to try it on my next expedition.
I enjoy mine :D
Thanks! I enjoy your style in this video. I WAS told to wear long johns on my first winter hike at 13yrs, but I wouldn't. At 59 I have them on from Nov-March.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the tips. So true you do not know until you get out there!!!!😊 trail and error.
Amen :D
I agree that nobody told me ALL the things you DON’T need to take with you. I have learned as I go. I still take way too much food.
Lol me too
Even if someone tells you what you don’t need, it wouldn’t matter. Most new backpackers won’t believe it until they experience it for themselves.
I wished I knew about backcountry and REI sooner and now I’m liking the cottage companies now too.
I think they all have the right time and place :D I'm really enjoying cottage companies at the moment too
Just started the Backpacking Podcast this afternoon. Only one episode in and loved it. I'm a Kentuckian and love the gorge, especially Miguel's. Can't wait to follow more of yours and John's adventures. Thanks for sharing the info.
Awesome, Josh! Love hearing fellow Kentuckians getting out and enjoying :D
Great video Jeremiah! That overloaded backpack picture is a classic. Especially the tv ha
Lol i try XD
Hey Brother! My tip is you will meet the greatest people out on the trail! My wife, our dogs, and I just ran into you, Jason, and Dan at Hanson's Point today. That was cool for us! Thank you for all the information, entertainment, and inspiration! We appreciate all your efforts! Thanks for being so cool to us and spending a little of your time to speak with us. Take care and God bless!
What up?! So great meeting you all this morning. Love seeing you all get out and take the pups along :D Very jealous of how close you are to the gorge lol Hope you all had a great hike!! God bless you all
We love living out here, but our daily commutes are longer, LOL! However, we wouldn't have it any other way! We had a great hike and you all made it way better! We hope you all are having a blast! Thanks for giving us the knowledge on how to start off successfully. It has meant more to us than I can convey. We have day hiked some before, but never backpacked.
Being out there, will show you how you really act when stressed. Even with the bests of friends, been in a few arguments over locations, emergency decisions. Need to be on the same page as whoever's with you. Especially while off-roading in 4WDS
Speaking truth
@@JeremiahStringer love the video though, definitely gave me a couple pointers to remember, Ive been guilty of being the guy with an enormous knife 🤣Much love from New Zealand!
It’s always sunshine and rainbows when I’m with you buddy. Oh yeah and somebody told me all 7 of these exact tips my very first time. Weird huh. 🤪
Lol that is very weird XD
The extreme version of getting used to (almost) zero drop - ladies from previous generations who had to wear high heels to work everyday then retired and put on tennis shoes or the like. They wondered why their legs hurt so badly and it was because their calf muscle had shortened over the years. It works whether millimeters or inches. Also, I've heard that true hiker hunger (where you eat all the time) actually takes a couple of weeks of hiking and that a trip of just a few days doesn't actually require a ton more calories. Would you agree that's pretty accurate or have you found otherwise?
I would agree. When I was thru hiking the Long Trail for a month, I ate any and everything when I came into town. On my weekend trips I come back bloated lol
You'll know when your "hiker hunger" kicks in when your craving food and can eat half your snacks in one sitting.
This is very helpful thank you! I can't wait to do my first backpacking hike!
It'll be great!
Timely tip on the zero drop shoes. Just went from hiking boots to Altra Lone Peak trail runners. Haven't used them yet. I'll definitely put some miles on them now before actually back packing in them. :)
Glad it hit at the right time 😃
most refreshing candor on youtube
Thank you so much!! :D
I was so mean to oocupa when they asked me to work with them. 😂😂😂. Great vid.
Lol that’s okay. I scooped it up 😂
Great advice, especially on the zero drop shoes.
Appreciate it :D
Loving the vids man
Thank you!!
Great advice! I'm not planning to go on a hike anytime soon but it's still interesting.
Thank you very much :D
Danner Military Boots. Snow, mud, rocks, nails, fire, etc. Switch the laces out with 550. No need to ever worry about your feet.
Awesome vid, Thanks!
My pleasure :D
I learned the Zero drop shoe issue first hand. I walked around in them, but never did "miles" or used them with a pack on before taking them on trail. First time out on trail with them in the Smokies, went 13+ miles. I was hobbling the next morning back to the car. My calfs were shot.
Lol yeah they are calf destroyers. I felt like I had the weakest calves in the world after my first trek in them
Good video. As to the cost. Backpacking: an activity where you will spend a fortune to live like a homeless person.
Very true! XD
Great content thanks. Keep them coming
Thank you very much! :D More to come
Im genuinely asking out of ignorance, whats the big idea with the ferro rods and all the other fire starters? What do they do that a bic lighter doesn't(and easier)? I have pulled bic lighters out of snow banks that sat for months and they still light every time.
I'm right there with you. I'm lighter all day long
Awesome video man!
I learned a lot just now. I’m newewwwwwww
Glad it was helpful!
I love your channel by the way
Thank you!!
I just abandoned Altras forever. I’ve worn them for over a year but never could get used to them. I’m now rocking the Hoka Speedgoat.
I've been rocking the Hoka Speedgoats for the last few hundred miles. A ton of cushion in them
All these videos are a little confusing with what to take and what not to take I've only done 5 mile hikes and over night, but I'm planning on doing part of the Florida trail but worried I'll have to quit by not being prepared enough any advice. Thank you in advance.
The more you go the more comfortable you'll be. I'd get out there and get some nights under my belt in the backcountry. I have a longer video that gives you a good idea of what to expect and very clear on what to take if you wanna know more: ruclips.net/video/dUjuItJpR0k/видео.html
I have been doing yoga for 10 years now so I am used to being barefoot. I have owned a pair of Earth Runner sandals for 3 years now and wear them everyday. It takes time to get used to zero drop.
I see your posts on Instagram. Always looks like you have a great time on the workouts :D
Did you really enjoy the hand warmer? I bought a pair. I was considering chemical but was afraid of burning myself with no heat regulation. Thanks for the tips.
It does great. I have 2 of them
Wow I live 45 mins from Land between The Lakes. It has ok trails nothing to difficult. Savage Gulf in TN is a amazing place to hike
I loved the "rolling hills" XD
Food is always tricky. For me, my desire to eat goes DOWN for the first several days on the trail, especially when the temperature is high. My body needs 3 to 5 days to adjust (and I am typically back home in that amount of time). So, I plan on slightly "lighter" meals -- basically, I plan to eat the "suggested serving size."
For contingency, I pack one extra meal per day of the trip. For a three day weekend trip, I bring a 4th day of food. That just provides some buffer for wanting extra meals, for an additional "unexpected" night out, or in case food is "lost" (pot knocked over, poptart dropped into rain puddle, and so on).
I always love at least having an extra dinner with me
Budget gear - I don't mind buying budget as I figure out what features that I like/dislike. I'm on my 3rd backpack and 3rd hammock after two years. All but two of those where under $30. Same thing with my flyfishing/flytying equipment - bought budget until I figured out what I wanted/liked. (another potentially expensive hobby) Once I figured out what I liked and disliked, I would 'upgrade' when it came time to replace (wear out, sell, pass on, or keep as a spare) what I had.
Zero Drop (and Barefoot) shoes - yes, they take getting used to. I love my Five Finger shoes and Merrell Vapor gloves. I wear them daily and on the trail.
Something that no one told me and seems to be kept secret although I have since found a couple (but not many) videos on the subject - How to find established remote campsites. Or how to locate a good spot for a remote campsite. Plenty of information on leave no trace when remote camping, but very little on finding a good spot. Being a hammock camper, it's not a big deal for me now when I solo hike. Take a GPS and/or compass reading and head off trail far enough for the regulations for the area (around here is either 200' or 1/4 mi depending on the location) and find two appropriate trees. :-) But when hiking w/a buddy sometimes finding a remote spot that you can set up camp and enjoy a fire (and leave no trace the next day) can be tough.
That is a great video idea! I think why there is so little info about finding a site like you are saying is because people are afraid of being shamed about LNT. I firmly believe you can apply LNT and find your own remote location for camping. I do it :D
In the white mountains there are many remote used sites. Many don't share them as they don't want them to be over used. (Comments I've seen on forums when others asked about where to camp on trails in the whites - I was searching the forums for the same thing) Most common answer was to go hike and you will find them. Thing is sometimes you do and sometimes you don't and have to make your own. Nothing worse than following a side path hoping for a campsite and it turns out to be a potty path.
I really like this dude's accent and attitude!
Thank you very much :D I try
I have that shirt too!
Love it :D
Great tips man!! Actually done stuff i hadn't heard before and i watch a fair amount of backpacking channels. Love the Altra tip. I already knew about the money 💰💰 Food isn't a problem... i usually don't bring quite enough! My problem starting out was i couldn't find a lot of info on Backpacking With Kids! Ive been going to compile that info to help others out.
That is a great niche to do! Backpacking with Kids is an entirely unique experience
@@JeremiahStringer i agree! I'm trying to wiggle my channel into that very niche! Just need more experience under my belt!
We just hiked the North-South Trail at LBL on January 13-16th. Did you hike the entire trail? Are you posting a video soon of the hike?
We went the weekend of Jan 23rd and only did about 16 miles. I intended to make a video, but ended up only getting some clips to use in videos like this lol
Great video as always man! I tried to tell my friends not to bring so much stuff and they still insist on doing so...
I try and have my friends bring extra so I can mooch XD
Dude that’s so funny 😂 but a great idea! I’m stealing that for sure.
Nobody told me about waterfilters, so i always brought all the water i would need. Another thing nobody told me was that the 3,5kg 3person tent - that i paid hundreds of dollars for - was way too big and heavy for 1 small, weak, and lazy pothead, lol! Needless to say, i didnt go on "backpacking"/camping trips very often back then, and i never hiked more than a few km...
Lol living and learning :D
@@JeremiahStringer Yeah, wont do that again. Now the only "heavy duty" item i got is the Katadyn "Pocket" water filter - which i think is somewhat acceptable after hearing about other water filters breaking, and people having used their Katadyn "Pocket" since the mid 80s..! As long as my baseweight is comfortable, its not really a big deal. Will probably get a Sawyer Squeeze before summer though, and just use the Katadyn Pocket for bikepacking and trips with other people who dont have a waterfilter.
I relate vacation,traveling,camping,hiking to eating road foods, snacks and junk .I've done keto backpacking and didn't really enjoy it.
I feel you :D
I like you. Liked and subscribed.
Thank you, Joel. I like you too :D
Always been wearing zero drop (converse) with out knowing it was a thing, but still got skinny ass calf's. I like my altras tho!
Altras are great :D
I've found hammock straps on trees literally over 10 times.
So easy to forget
I like your video. Please make more. :-))
Thanks, Brian. Will do :D
Choose partners with a good attitude...... hardship is where the adventure and great stories come from. I've never had a bad trip in over 50 years of backpacking. I've had to fight my way out through unexpected snow, or been rained on the whole time. I've been with people who had soles fall off their shoes. I've had to feed someone who didn't plan enough food for a long trip, I once had to hike 20 miles out with strep throat........... "zero drop shoes"??? Are people absolutely bonkers!!! On flat ground maybe, but you will destroy your achillies tendon in steep climbs. I only hike in very steep country in the Rockies. Cooking over a campfire is for Boy Scouts on a campout nor for backpackers. It is inconvenient, and time consuming, and gets soot on everything, and makes you and all your gear stink of smoke. I've built fires perhaps 3 times in 50 years, only because of necessity, or in one case because I was with a woman who insisted on a fire. I don't like leaving any sign that I've been there, or being part of a culture that has caused most of the major wildfires in the area. Good lightweight stoves are cheaper and lighter than they have ever been.... buy one and use it!! Popular areas have fire pits everywhere, and every burnable piece of wood has been burned, and live trees girdled so they will be "standing dead" candidates for firewood next year. Don't be just one more a-hole.... there are too many people in the mountains these days "loving them to death". TAKE ONLY PICTURES LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS!!
Love my hiking buddies 😃
Water is friggen heavy 🤣 and "springs" are questionable in the desert!
XD
Just breaking in new Altras. I took a walk of four miles. No hills or anything. That night I had Charlie horse in both legs. OMG! Break them in slowly 😁
Lol you are so right
Where’s your catchers mitt? Or are you getting ready to ride a motorcycle without a helmet. Maybe it’s windy. Great tips. Same gear rules apply to kayak fishing.
Thank you :D
I'm always less hungry out in the woods. I can eat like one packet of instant noodles and thats it and be happy as. Am a chubby person though so I guess my body is just burning excess stored calories.
That could be :D
nice sharing..
Thank you so much 🙂
Nobody told me: Don't buy ticket back, you don't know from where and when are you going to return 😂
Lol valuable knowledge
“7 things nobody tells you about backpacking.”
But you’re telling us about it. Wait a minute, wait a minute... are you calling yourself a nobody?
Lol it's backpacking Inception
Wives- S3x gets weird on the trail. Be prepared to deal with everything going on down there after a couple hundred miles. LOL
XD wise advised I assume
Once a Zero Drop convert you will never go back! All I wear now.
They work well for me as well :D
I'm not really a backpacker, I'm a camper, but I hike from my car to my campsites with all of my gear, which is usually a mile or so, occasionally further. The most important piece of advice I can give to anyone walking any sort of distance with any amount of gear...the most important pieces of gear are your pack and your shoes. With the proper pack, you can carry twice the weight with less exhaustion. With the proper shoes, you can walk twice the distance without any discomfort.
Fantastic points!!
Hiker hunger....try drinking water more often. More times than not you are thirsty not hungry.
That happens to me all the time :D
Don't need to spend big money. Just get the right stuff for what you need.
Absolutely true :D
Me and my friends are going ri carry a canoe and then backpack for 4 days.
That sounds awesome!!
8. You only have so many miles in your feet, knees and back over a lifetime.
9. Really.
10. Use them wisely.
Good stuff!!
That advise on zero drop shoes applies to any shoe. A multiple day hike is the worst way to try a new shoe. Even if they are great shoes, they can tear up your feet if your feet aren't use to them.
I wear minimalist shoes. They take training to learn how to walk in them because they have almost no padding. Their advantages are that they are light, dry quickly, and you can feel the ground you are walking on. That's an example of how each hiker has to figure out what is right for themselves.
I've been considering trying some minimalist shoes out
All that free publicity but still no Gonex sponsorship. I just don't know what to say.
Lol not yet
8th - Don't wear a gonex pack if anyone is filming for RUclips. Otherwise you will be ridiculed for ever!!
Lol truth
"embrace that suck" haha stealing
I stole it too lol
Bear Grills is fake!
😂
Yeah....you and Hot Hands don't have a good history..😆
Lol unfortunately not XD
Dont buy everything you see on RUclips that youtubers use because you might not use it
Totally right, Robert :D I would 100% agree with you
No one convinced me how beneficial trekking poles are. I always thought they were nerdy and for older folks. Real deal=they're stabilizers and ankle savers!
Yes!!! I love my trekking poles
No way! Poles keep you from utilizing vital stabilizing muscles in your knees and ankles making them weaker! haha 2,193 miles with no poles!
@@apathies_therapy It's great for people who have injuries or extra weight in their body :)
@@CelebralBore to each their own. My 6 month hike happened with zero injuries. Happy trails! 🤙🏻
@@apathies_therapy And some of us are cancer survivors getting well and using them to get back to what we love doing. You're so right, to each their own as we're all different and have different stories to tell. Glad you were six months no injuries, some of already had our injuries through disease. Use them or don't but don't be an ass about it
“Open up the wallet, cuz here it comes!”
Lol, made me laugh out loud cuz it’s so true :)
XD
Tip: Your feet are going to be sore from the extra weight and uneven terrain. Bring Ibuprofen. I didn't on my first trip and I won't do that ever again. Muscles will likely be sore too, but my feet were screaming.
Those are great thoughts! This is why I love the comments :D
meh, ibuprofen is not needed, just keep walking. the pain goes away pretty quickly.
Tummeric lattes are great as well, highly recommended anti inflammatory, nutrition rich, helps with achey joints. Healthier option.
www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2
Honestly really advise against taking too much Ibuprofen and/or on a regular basis. It's a painkiller sure but very bad for your kidneys. Gotta think ahead^^
vitamin I
I know this should be a no brainer but: how cold it is at night sleeping on the ground is not comparable to how cold it is sleeping on a bed. Last night before a hiking trip in summer I was sweating the windows where open it was very hot. So I thought: Why carry a sleeping bag? U gonna sweat anyway... big regret. I camped only 15 km from home the temperature was the same as the night before but I freezed so much I crawled into a plastic poncho at some point
Wow! I've taken a sheet to lay under during the summer. That is next level :D
During a day hike I felt a huge temperature drop from one side of a hill (sunny side) to the other (no sun and moist air/soil due to underground springs etc). It was Summer in Australia. I was sweating. Got to other side of hill and took off my shoes to touch earth... Before long my feet got cold, as though I was walking on morning frost.
Micro climates definitely make a difference as well.
Thanks Jeremiah -- I enjoy your videos! Another thing to consider is pack weight relative your size. For example, a 30 lb pack is not that much for a 180 lb man; it's just 17% of his body weight. However, 30 lb is 27% for a person who weighs 110 lbs, and that's a lot to carry. Then there's your own level of fitness, etc to consider. Pack according to your own capabilities and comforts.
That is a great point!! That would make a great pointer in a new vid :D
A technique I learned many years ago for steep up hill climb was to take a momentary "rest" with each step on steep climbs. It is so brief it isn't even visible... It is just a relaxing of your muscles ever so briefly, coordinated with your breathing technique. It does not even actually slow you down. I call it the heart beat pace because your heart similarly rests between beats. When you master that, you will never need to take that break other hikers always do, throwing off their pack and sprawling on the ground because you won't be tired... assuming you know how to pace yourself... You will be the first to the top of the grade even if you pace yourself slower than everybody else, and you will still have energy at the end of the day. Proper pacing, and the use of this technique will enable you to continue day after day, and walk everybody else into the ground!
Love the advice!! First to the top without rest sounds great 😁
@@JeremiahStringer I developed the technique in the ‘60’s as a teen hiking the PCT in long segments. I found that the stress from the restart after the classic sprawled out break did not justify stopping any more often than absolutely necessary. Your body winds down, then back up again. It’s like those idiot drivers that accelerate and brake between lights as if it’s a race between traffic lights. When I do break, I try to make it an active break.... does that make sense?
@@stonetoolcompany3649 Please consider doing a tutorial video on your technique. I'm sure if you don't have a channel yourself Jeremiah would be glad to run it for you.......hint, hint, hint!!!!!!
@@charlottedunlay4397 Charlotte:
I have none of those kinds of skills.... or inclinations. It is easy to learn this technique for some people. Others just do not have the mindset or focus to recognize that moment and use it as “rest”. It is both physical and psychological. Once you have it, it does not consume your attention at all. It becomes completely natural... a part of how you move like any kind of training. At first you have to think about letting the tension off. It’s probably best to go out completely solo and find that rhythm without the distraction of matching pace with others. I personally like to hike solo even when I’m with a group.... which is seldom.
@@stonetoolcompany3649 Well, it was a good thought. I'm interested in trying it because I want to do the CT this summer. I will be 70 and I think that technique would serve me well. I will do some practicing.
Thanks anyway!!
You're right, we're not Bear Grills. We don't eat KFC on the trail and sleep at a Holiday Inn when it gets dark.. 😄
XD
Doesnt matter what he did in between takes, the end result of the show was the goal and that's what they got
Great video! So true on every tip. My tips: Don't forget the Vitamin I supply - Ibuprofin and Imodium, don't go without them.
Great tips!!
Getting to know my body and its limits has been the hardest part! trying to figure out how many miles is ENOUGH and when to stop! Getting somewhere faster is not worth an injury.
It’s always a learning experience
Keep an open head, sometimes i just walk and when the day's over i setup my shelter and go to sleep, don't overplan
My first time hiking lbl I was so worried about running out of food...I ended up taking almost 10 days worth of food on a 3 day trip 😂
I bet you ate very good lol
@@JeremiahStringer yes I did lol
Last tip, be ready to get hooked! No matter what goes wrong, on the way home were always planning the next trip! Just came back this weekend and realized that spring break is coming and we have 2 months to plan and practice. Need a couple of three day trips to get ready! Know where, just need the weather. Time to introduce the kids to backpacking a multiday loop!
The hiking bug definitely bit me hard lol
I wish there were videos about nighttime on the trail. Hiking during the day and dealing with things in the daytime is so different than being out there camping at night. Thanks!
I haven't backpacked a whole lot during the night, but a few times out of necessity. That would make a great tips vid :D
I volunteer on the AT in Georgia, and we always talk about doing a video series that shows a more balanced viewpoint. Thru hiker videos don’t usually focus on the suck, but Georgia in February/March is wet and cold, tough hiking, and long stretches without rewards like views. We meet a lot of people on trail who just weren’t mentally prepared.
That would be awesome!!
Had to laugh as I went solo backpacking for the first time after a xx year hiatus. Note to self - next time don't have the pack outweigh your age. But still had a great time.
Lol glad you had a great time still :D
Water, Water, Water....stay hydrated. My first day out moving right along and enjoying the trail but never realized or even though about it until the cramps started, that will never happen again.
Yes and electrolytes added to the water really help too. I love NUUN tablets
@@JeremiahStringer Never leave home without them...
Taking notes, thanks :)
I loooove my zero drop shoes. I looove my five-fingers. As soon as I figure out how to hike barefoot, I will!
That will be awesome :D
I am the always-hungry type of hiker. I actually feel starving even after a day hike, day at the pool, a chill bike ride..... it is ridiculous. 😂
Lol yea I could graze all day
Bear grylls is a fake anyway so it's good were not him lmao. He's been outed. Always love the videos man.
Thank you very much!! Appreciate the love, Gabe
A fake what? I mean, it's TV, so obviously kinda fake. Grylls specialise in extreme sport (parachutism, rock climbing and so on), more than pure survival (like Survivorman). He did climd the Everest pretty young. I would love to be as "fake" as him (yeah, during some show he didn't sleep in the shelter he made, I know. As I said, it's TV.).
@@JeremiahStringer ya., man. I appreciate your art. You and the rest of the gang on RUclips seriously inspire me to get out on the trail and back onto the woods.
That means a lot, Gabe! Thank you so much :D That's the whole reason my channel exist. Love seeing people getting out and enjoying the backcountry
I always wondered what bonuses he gets for eating something slimy or gross. Like, drinking the water from elephant dung. That had to net him a thousand at least. ;)
Some fantastic tips there mate. Give it a few trips and i imagine any beginners pack would be lighter. Things like this help speed that up though.
Couldn't be more correct :D
I am too respectful and fearful of mother nature to go out there with cheap gear that’s only going to fail lol
Lol I'm with you
Start small. go on walks around town. then a couple days hikes, then a couple overnight hikes. Build-up to the long-distance hikes, your gonna discover muscle pain you did not realize would be there. break in all your shoes/boots before hiking with them.
Once you reach the halfway point quitting is not really an option, your hiking out.
Love the advice!! 😃
I'm the 1.4k th like!!!!!
Firing up the party :D
No body told me; you don't need that, no need for this, ditch that , wtf, loose that thing. I still bring to much. Lol
Lol I do too
Very cool channel, In glad I found it. I'm in Montana, I get lots of hikes in. We are always learning.
@@bigskycharlie awesome to have you 😃
Great video dude...very informative....my pack weighed 75 lbs on my first trip😄😄😄😄😄
Thanks, Brett! That's a heavy pack lol
I've been thinking about how much food to take also. I'm doing my first 14er in may and I'm thinking I rather have more food than run out of food but for the most part all my food items are light weight. Also I have hiking boots but Im going to switch to a trail runner but Im undecided on which one to buy. Going to REI this week so that will help and That hand warmer is a definite must have for me because I've had Frost bite before and in weather below 20°F my fingers always hurt from the cold. Love your videos, I've learned alot and have gotten some great tips from you, Thanks
Thank you so much!! Hope the shopping trip went well and the 14er will be amazing :D
Just found your channel brother this is my second of all you've done and love the way you explain and break things down. Thanks and keep up the great work Sir.
Thank you very much :D Will do
If your hands and feet are cold wear a hat.
Your body will keep the brain warm first and worry about the rest after. When your head is warm more blood flow will go to the extremities.
This goes double when sleeping in the cold. If it's freezing wear a hat.
Good stuff :D