You’re by far, my go to backpacking hiking guru. I love your communication style and your incredible easy going expertise on hiking. Keep up the good work.
Our Boy Scout council purchased large duffel bags used to contain and transport back packs by air when attending high-adventure bases. The one serious rule they had was that the trek participants were required to wear their hiking boots for the plane ride. The rationale was (learned by difficult experience) that if the entire set of back packing gear was lost in transit it could be replaced at the destination but broken in footwear was irreplaceable.
Great video. I can add to the dressing in a hammock question. That in itself is a great reason to carry an opaque poncho...it becomes like an open ended dress, under which you can do all kind of things. Peeing. Dressing. Bathing....all kind of naked things!!! Of course it can also be your rain gear or supplement any rain related gear for your pack or your shelter. You can also use it to sit on, carry firewood, even gather water. All that to say there are multiple non conflicting reasons why it would be helpful to have a poncho with you anyway. They are definitely not uni-taskers! And versatile items tend to earn their place in your pack even if they are extra. You might also make something like that out of tyvek. (Got to that part of the video) take a rect or diamond shaped piece and cut a slit in the middle for your head and do your naked things under it.
I really like your videos because they're 100% content. You get straight to the point instead of waffling or having an overly long intro like a lot of youtubers do.
Just went on my first real back-packing trip this past week end. I don't have a boatload of money for a complete Ultralight kit so I packed everything I thought I needed (2 miles one-way) in and out. Set everything up, used what I needed, and now I know exactly what I do/don't need for a week of back packing. I still will have a heavier pack than a true Ultralight set but I have figured out how to get it down to a manageable weight.
Great info. Glad I found these Q&A videos. One suggestion on the air travel with a backpack... I have traveled a bunch for work. Used to be a road warrior for a while. I've had airports destroy luggage on a few occasions to include a hold-over for an avionics problem causing my luggage to stay in the cargo section for 4 hours during peak summer afternoon heat in Georgia. This melted parts of my luggage. I've had buckles and straps torn and broken too. If you box and ship your gear by UPS or FedEx to the nearest depot for pickup, you might very well save on a ton of heartache. Our packs aren't cheap. Some of our gear can be banged around also (titanium cookware, etc). I've shipped luggage, duffels, camera gear, and engine parts ahead of my trip and had a much better experience knowing I had a tracking confirmation and could be sure that any issues were covered by the insurance.
Dixie, Thank you for sharing your experiences/lessons in such an open way. The questions in this video inspired these comments: Bear Can: They are usually NOT waterproof. I either line the inside with a plastic bag I can seal or put garbage sack over the can if it is on the ground. When kayaking, the weight of the can is not a problem and it doubles as a camp chair - but I store it away from camp - just like hanging food. Privacy: Not only can you bring the tarp sides down for dressing (and stand behind the hammock), you can get a hammock that has, nylon panels on the ends ("doors"). The extra weight is trivial and can be offset by not needing as heavy a sleeping bag or top quilt (because the tarp interior is warmer). Also the doors provide more weather protection in blowing rain. Peeing on Shoes: It helps to find a couple of rocks or stick you can put under your heels making it easier to squat without tipping over. Also finding a log/tree branch you can grab with one hand so you can lean back a little. Note, make sure it won't break in mid-exercise; just say'n. Ice Axe: An ice axe takes a little training to use properly, instinctively, immediately. If you need it - you don't want to think about it - just pure muscle memory. Also, unlike the video, practice with some pants on or you'll abrade you skin on course snow. See if your local mountaineering group gives lessons. It is not intuitive. For example, without training, many erroneously try to stop dragging the adz instead of the pick. Toilet Paper: Metamucil is your friend. I'm a vegetarian, my partner is a vegan; somehow we make it work. But moving away from my diet and towards her's (she cooks, I clean), my poo turned to paste - lots of clean up. Once I started taking a spoonful of Metamucil after each meal, things firmed up such that sometimes no work is necessary; clean with one swipe. Tyvek: There is more to consider besides just the material. Various nylon colors give you levels of opaqueness (and joy) and there are seam sealers specifically formulated for the material. When Tyvek is new and smooth, it is noisy. When it is used and wrinkled (took me four washings to "soften" it up), it isn't what I'd want for tent/shelter walls. But I will try it as a ground cloth (footprint). I usually use black plastic (Visqueen) for that because, being black, it drys quickly. I put a little duct tape on the corners and write TOP on them so I always orient the same side down.
As for injections I have lots of experience being a type 1 diabetic For a long trip I carry an extra water bottle and put my used needles in there. Mark it with tape as Sharps and toss it in any trash can. I also have a old hard drive case that I carry my insulin in so it won't get smashed in my pack. If you really want to get outside you will find a way!
Do you have any more tips for another T1D? i am going on my first Trip and its just for a few weeks but I feel like there are always going to be some things I didnt think about yet :D How many supplies do you pack and donyou have any tips for lows on the trail?
I have been backpacking since the 90s and have an outdoor leadership degree and I learn something new every time I watch one of your videos. There are so many great ways to do stuff and we never stop learning. Your videos are my favorite and encourage me to make my own, less interesting videos, lol. Great work and I love how you encourage everyone and don’t focus on doing something one way.
For airplanes and hiking poles I go to a used sporting goods store and buy a cheap bat bag. Pretty much the same as your duffel concept .... maybe just a little more compact and usually less than $10. I also buy a pool noodle and split it and insert the pole for a bit of protection from potential rough handling. Great vids!
Tyvek, if you put it in a washing machine with an agitator , cold water and NO detergent it will soften it without affecting is water proofing. And, it's very quiet
The best advice I can give is to go on small practice trips, 2-3 days, before you go on something long. you will naturally learn all of this stuff, and then when Dixie gives these tips, they make a lot more sense. ya'll are smarter than you think.
I love watching your videos...easy to understand and entertaining. Im fairly new to backpacking, even though i was with the boy scouts for years. I am starting to do multiple days hoking trips and you have shown me good ways to lighten up. The AT is on my bucket list, and i want to do that before i turn 60. I am 55 now, but i just discovered i have a hole in my heart ( which they found after i had a mini stroke). So, i will have that fixed and then start getting ready for that hike.. i will do the Midstate trail and 100 Mile Woods first to make sure i will be ok...plus, all your viewers are great sources of info, too....keep hiking and smiling!
I highly recommend keeping your TP in a sealed, waterproof plastic bag and making SURE any unused TP gets put back into the bag and sealed again immediately after use. It is especially important to verify that this protocol has been followed if you loan your TP to a fellow hiker, since not everyone is sufficiently intelligent or responsible to do the obvious. Learned the hard way the importance of getting your loaned TP back and sealed up while on a three day canoe trip in the Yukon back around '76. High bush cranberry leaves were the best available alternative to TP, and they were not very satisfactory, even after thawing the frost off them between bare hands. After that experience, I might trust my life to a friend - but not my TP. :) I wonder whether anyone else has had regrets after loaning something to a fellow adventurer.
@@lifeIsWonderful2974 Have you started yet? I want to do the e8 in ireland this year in August and would really like to contact you! I'm german too. (Keine Ahnung wieso ich nicht auf deutsch schreibe:D)
@@patriciagrass6944 hi Patricia, just sitting next to the road about 1km to Borris. I started the south leinster way today. How can I Help? Can we send private messages on youtube? Aina
One of ghe best backpacking/hiking channels on youtube. Would be interested to hear about alternative cooking methods and setups such as nesting tins with alcohol burners and a wee camping pot/kettle on it to know how well they would do as opposed to full camping stove setups with various pots etc. And alternative light sources.
Dixie, thank you for your videos and for discussing "delicate" issues so openly. This video inspired these comments: Bear Can: They are not waterproof so I line the inside with a sealable bag or put a plastic bag over it when I store it away from camp. The black can doubles as a chair. Weight is not an issue when kayak camping. Privacy: In addition to bringing down the tarp's side, you can also stand behind the hammock. Get a tarp with nylon panels ("doors") on the ends. More privacy, warmer environment, more protection in blowing rain. Pee on boots: put rocks or sticks under shoe heels for better balance when squatting. Grab a branch on a tree or fallen log with one hand to aid in leaning back. Note: Make sure the branch is strong enough so it will not break in mid-exercise; just say'n. Ice Axe: Its use is not intuitive. Beginners often erroneously drag the adz instead of the pick. To be effective its use must be immediate, accurate, without hesitation - pure muscle memory. Get lessons from mountaineering group if you are going to carry one. Practice with pants - not bare legs shown in the video - or your skin will abrade on the coarse ice/snow. Toilet Paper: Metamucil is your friend. I'm vegetarian, my partner is vegan; somehow we make it work. But cutting out dairy turned my poo to paste - lot's of work. A spoonful of Metamucil, or other psyllium product, after each meal firmed everything up. Often one swipe and I'm done. Much less hassle on the trail. Tyvek, Too noisy when new, too wrinkly when softened up (at least four washings). Nylon shelters have specifically formulated seam sealers and give you a choice of opaqueness (and joy) via their color choices. I might use Tyvek as a ground cloth (footprint), but I usually use black plastic (Visqueen). It dries quickly in the sun and I put a little duct tape on each corner, writing TOP on one side so I always have the same ground side down.
Hello Dixie, thank you for another informative video. You handled all the questions quite well. Your name is well known and respected throughout the hiking community. I often refer new hikers to your channel for important information pertaining to hiking. Take care out there. Keep those informative videos coming. 🤗
Have never hiked a day in my life, but your videos have given me SUCH a desire to go out and do something more! I just love watching your videos and think that the way you present your information is so awesome! Great job!!
I believe that the US and Canada have different maximum legal Capsaicin concentrations for bear spray, with the US allowing twice the strength (2% vs 1%) that is legal in Canada. So you probably can’t legally bring maximum strength bear spray from the US into Canada, but carrying the less concentrated Canadian bear spray into the US might be allowed depending on how you are transporting it.
I've only gone on short weekend backpacking trips, and never in bear country. We've used "bear bags" to protect our food from other critters like racoons. But I've been told that if you do go into bear country, then you need to use a bear canister that is approved for the location you're backpacking in. Apparently, some bears in some areas have figured out how to open certain bear canisters, so those bear canisters are no longer approved for those areas. But it varies regionally.
Hi Dixie, awesome job on keeping us informed about every little bit and inspiring to develop the love for hiking and overcome the fears. Question about food and bear. Do bears come closer or charge at you for the food in backpack while hiking? What should you do?
The TP question, I found a portable bidet in which you just attach a nozzle to a water bottle. More hygienic and no needing to worry about TP all together
Constantly refreshed by your videos. You have managed to really capture the attention of a wide range of people and followers as well as blow some fresh air into this activity. So many thanks for your time and energy Dixie! Thanks constantly! :)
I will agree with George Frole. You are the first place I check for any hiking or backpacking tips and answers. Your videos are always factual, to the point without wasted commentary and you're not afraid to talk about the things we wonder but don't want to ask, I really appreciate that...
River crossing: Teva sandals or something like that. Also nice in the camp after wearing heavy boots all Day. We dan out of toilet paper, but grass and leaves... Greetings from the Netherlands!
the eeriness of the wilderness is an interesting feeling. I've been camping in the wild for a long time, but *still* squirrels in the trees at night sound like bears. Or monsters. :)
The eeriest sound I ever heard at night outdoors was the sound of the entire ground moving from all the insect activity in the soil…spending the entire trip worrying about ticks on top of massive cockroaches and then falling asleep to what sounded like every insect in the southeast burrowing under my tent did not for an easy sleep make.
Dixie, you are such a refreshing personality. Love your videos and can't believe some big camping products Corporation has not snapped you up as their spokesperson. Your communication skills are awesome. Enjoy all your videos. Best wishes.
Hey Dixie, to dispose of needles, find a local tattoo shop. They are required to have sharps containers for the needles they use. You might have to pay them a buck or two, but I am sure they will help you out.
I have made a 16ft long tent out of Tyvek, 7ft peak at one end other end goes to ground. I tie off on large tree in front at 7ft and use 3 tent pegs,. and have 8ft zipper in the front I even have it set up for a portable wood stove. The Tyvek was left over from a job, I also use a piece for a table cloth when eating crabs.
Thanks for yet another Amazing video Dixie! As always, you continue to remain engaging and entertaining while being extremely informative! You cover things which some of us forget to ask, or haven't even considered! Thanks again and keep up the great work!
Interesting questions and answers! I haven't been able to find Tyvek in South Africa, but I did make some temporary tarp shelters in my backyard out of painters' plastic (a thick plastic sheet that painters put on the floor to protect it) when I was experimenting with designs for making a DIY tarp out of nylon. The plastic worked surprisingly well, it just obviously was not breathable at all so prone to condensation :)
For the bathroom questions, My method is to carry a little squirt water bottle and 2 bamboo washclothes. (Too switch out when they get crusty) For pee it's super easy to just squat and air dry or use the lightweight super soft and absorbent bamboo washcloth to dry. I tend to pick a bunch grass or little pile of dirt to pee on to avoid splashes. Gravel and rock are the worst for splashing yourself. Number 2 I rinse off with the little water bottle then use the cloth to dry off. I hate toilet paper because it leaves pieces, is wasteful, falls apart, and plus I don't have to worry about packing gross stuff out. I actually prefer the outdoor bathroom to modern indoor ones haha
Great video - thanks! My "silly"/embarrassing question: What is the etiquette surrounding passing gas while in camp, when everyone's separated into their tents but can still hear - & maybe smell - most of what goes on in all the other tents? Do you say "excuse me" and risk waking anyone already asleep? Or do you just pretend it didn't happen (or that it happened in someone else's tent)?
I'm not a hiker but I have a big problem with gas. Depending on place and company, I either make a joke about it [sorry I got my finger stuck and it got pulled] [Advise all that a fart is loading] or just say excuse me.
I'm about to hike the VA and NC portion of the AT. Your videos have helped tremendously. I feel more confident and prepared than before. Thanks , and keep up the great vids !!
If you're backpacking with a group, when you camp overnight is it better to designate a bathroom area the proper distance away and say, "ok everybody go to the bathroom over there" or is it better to disperse and everyone goes in a different direction and you say "ok nobody go over there that's where I went"...? Thank you Dixie and all you other helpful hikers!
Rosemary Parks Hi, when I went through an LNT 3 day course, we went through part of siting your camp for the night, was designating cathole sites, even digging ahead. Changes in diet, hydration and stress can affect our habits, planning and preparing really works in group or solo situations.
Excellent video as always. As far as TP goes folks can do a little research before leaving home. How many times a day do you use tp? How much tp do you use per event when you need a lot? How many days will you be on the trail? Calculate your projected need and bring just a bit more . . . just in case :0)
I make all of the ground sheets out of polycro. It’s super cheap on amazon. Like $5 for a huge piece. Tyvek works well too because it’s more durable, but a bit heavier. Great vid, Dixie! Enjoyed it 🙌🏻
I have the pstyle because I’m in a semi with hubby and sometimes I just gotta be and there are no bathrooms near us. It has a holder with a carabiner you can get and it’s super easy to use this September I’ll use it on my first hike
If you’re willing to carry it you can buy personal sharps boxes for your needles. My mom had to do daily injections at home and she had her own sharps container.
In camping scenarios I've used a tarp or painter's drop cloth and wrapped it around two saplings that were close together and used that for changing and/or showering
Dixie, it is amazing to see how much you channel has grown from that first few thousand of us way back on the AT start...19,187 views in one day...i can remember some of the first videos took a loooooong time to reach 1000...
19:30 Tyvek isn't all that robust for use in things like tents. For starters, it has no ripstop weave, so once a tear starts, it's pretty easy for that rip to open up wide. Second, it is not all that abrasion resistant when compared to ripstop nylon or DCF. The surface fibers will abrade and come loose if you scape them and eventually that will lead to a hole. It's reasonably good to use for ground sheets because it's very cheap compared to waterproof nylon or DCF, and it's really easy to find replacement sheets in most towns (any big box home improvement store and many smaller hardware stores). Using it in a tent would just result in needing to replace the tent fairly often, which means paying for the labor that went into making it - not too mention every failure is a night or a few in a leaky tent.
I used tyvek when I did roofing. It is strong, but its heavy and something sharp can rip through it like butter. In most cases it seems like a simple blue tarp would do better. Cant speak on it for backpacking related uses though. Maybe a tyvek poncho would be good lol.
Thanks for all the hard work you do on your videos Dixie. I'm a vlogger myself and I have a question for you. How do you completely get rid of ambient background noise like wind in your talking head style videos? I see you're wearing a lav mic, is that all you need to do to cut out so much background noise?
Hey dixie...I have given you smallgrief in the past but want to thank you for the videos....they are quite helpful in realation to backpacks, gear clothing and so on...I am not intrested in hiking as a sport but intrested in preparing for an emergency but your experience with through hikes and dealing with preparing for those hike is invaluble.... To me thanks again
Holland MI here I totally agree with what you said about being comfortable in the idea of being uncomfortable Being a noob hiker and camper this advise spoke to me as I am in uncharted territory in life
Bear Spray in Canada - there is always Canadian Tire. If you are flying or worried about carrying it across the boarder. They carry it and it as common as Walmart. I have driven into Canada on numerous occasions. No times did I have issue with having Bear Spray. I was asked by immigration officers going into Canada, more like ''You do have pepper spray? - right?" I kind of laughed and said "Oh yeah!"
Hi Dixie! Ok, you have said that you use a short sleeping pad b/c you sleep with your legs on your pack but you've also said you are a side sleeper. I'm having trouble envisioning that... Do you take everything out of your pack every night so it's flat? Or is it half full (minus bag, pad, tent, of course) and bulky and your legs are more up in the air? But then how do you side sleep? Could you please elaborate or demonstrate? Sorry if this is in another video I haven't gotten to yet, still new here :)
Hey Dixie! First and foremost I just wanna say that you are my main inspiration when it comes to hiking/backpacking and it's something I'm just getting into but I find you have been a great resource for information, as well as entertainment! Something that has caught my attention/interest was the AT Passport and other similar items I've seen in where you can acquire stamps along your journey, etc... I was wondering if you have used anything like this, what your thoughts on it were (did you like/dislike it, do you recommend it, etc...) and if possible, if you can suggest the best way to go about it? It seems like items like these are somewhat hard to plan (just based on my observations) and I thought if there was a good way to go about completing/using these that you could help point me and anyone else that may be interested in the right direction, or just share any useful tips regarding the subject. I'm sure you get swamped with questions so I won't take it personally if ya don't get around to responding but I just wanna say thank you, in advance, either way! Take care of yourself and I always look forward to future uploads! ;)
Flying with backpacks: Duffel bags work well but i have also used a very large and thick trash bag to put the backpack in and some string to tie it up.
With my arc haul, flying, I take off the vertical struts, netback and anything else might hook up somewhere, (or be grabbed and broken) and put them inside the pack. Trekking poles inside as well. Then tie it all together tight so nothing will trail and get caught in mechanisms. Doesn't take long it's all quick fit. Plus you have carry on to cover any surplus that has to come out. I have also taken off the belt as well, but practice that one first, you need strong hands and if you've already taken off the pockets and tied it all together I'm not sure it's worth the trouble.
Another beautiful spring day in Alabama. Thanks for the backdrop. TP and a flushable wipe is the best. Just pack out the wipe. I stayed on a sight I had stayed at 2 years prior and dug my prior wipe up whilst getting ready to move things b4 the trail. Seriously. I asked an Army vet years back why MRE's only had 6 sheets of TP. He pulled one sheet from his roll of desktop discount kleenex (because no one steals it). He folded in half and wrapped it around his index finger. Question answered.
$65. You get what you pay for. I have seen tents over $1000, cubanfiber tends to run around $26 a yard. So does silk. Good luck finding a wedding dress under a $1000.
I used a tarp made from Tyvek for a few years. I followed the Henry Shires Tarptent 2 man design. Mine included an integral floor from the same sheet of Tyvek using a fold on one side giving me waterproofness on that side. See www.backpacking.net/makegear/tarptent/index.html. It had all the issues others discussed: The floor eventually wore out since abrasion resistance is poor, tape could delaminate and come apart, and it sounded like a snare drum in the rain. It also would allow some water through in a hard rain. I would say it lasted for about 500 miles. Great DIY conversation piece, but not super functional. Use a Tarptent Notch now. Thanks Henry!
Hi Dixie. Love your videos. I was wondering if you ever go back to an area that you went through during a thru-hike, with more time to enjoy the area.? What I was specifically thinking about was the Sierras. I have spent a lot of time in the Sierras. They are beautiful with all of the snow, but, they are incredible in a completely different way with the green meadows, wildflowers, being able to explore, etc. There is so much to see and enjoy that you are enjoying in a completely different way when there is a timeline. Just wondering. Thanks
What if a company like REI hired you and you could do in person and virtual hiking work shops, was a spokes person and model for a clothing company including modeling the clothing line in your workshops and lead multi day hikes on major trails. You have the good looks to be for sure a hiking and outdoor super model, if there is such a thing. I follow a few blogs and have found your content right on target, honest and credibility is your brand. Thanks. Texas Jack
Excellent video, Dixie!! You are terrific at explaining lots of information in an easy to understand way. I'm so looking forward to seeing your upcoming adventure with your Ma and Fancy!! :D
I fuckn love Dixie like whenever I have a question on my mind I find one of her videos suggested 👌🏼 I'm doing my 1st hike solo in a couple of days wish me luck.
Dixie, you are inspiring! If I have questions about planning a thru hike on a popular trail (outside of the US) that there are no other vlogs - and obviously I would like Your advice - what's the best way/s to ask you those questions and get your advices?
Yep, made a tarp tent out of tyvek. Used it on the max patch to hot springs section. It was windy that night and so loud from the tyvek I did not sleep a wink. Everytime a small acorn or branch fell out of a tree it sounded like a dead man was coming down I had installed grommets and all Total fail, did keep me dry and AWAKE.
My wife is my hiking buddy (she's my everything buddy) but doesn't want to do the PCT though we do small sections of it. I don't like backpacking without her. Question: I believe the protocol is to poo 200 feet from the trail. That's 2/3 of a football field. I have never peed that far away. What do people realistically do? Thank you.
Toilet paper comment: we hiked with our 2 daughters on the pct in the eighties and ran out of toilet paper on the 3rd day of a 6 day hike in goat rocks. Our five year old was having non of that, and proceeded to strip every large leaf she could find along the trail, and stuffing her pack with leaves. It was imperative that we figure a solution quick! We had a few extra wash cloths with us, so we designated one wash rag as a bottom rag and one as a face rag. These rags are kept in separate ziplock bags with separated soap for each bag. We discovered, we stayed a lot cleaner and less smelly using this technique. So we never packed toilet paper again. We have hiked hundreds of miles since then using the old bottom rag/and face rag system.
Dixie please come to Canada & do the GDT, you’d be soooo happy that you did it!! You’re such a sweetheart, an amazing woman, you and I trust & respect your advice and I’d be honoured to hike with you a little...I have been following you for all 3 of your hikes and I just can’t imagine you not doing more of these adventures! You have inspired & motivated me more than you can ever imagine & I thank you from the bottom of my heart! ...and congrats to you; you’re a lean, mean, triple crown Queen 👑....except you’re not mean, I’ll work on that lol 😆! ✌️♥️from 🇨🇦(Alberta)
For the needle I take a old med bottle with me just put the bio haze +on it found on amazon a company company that give you pens and needle holders that you can put put water on them and you can keep it cold for almost weeks just make sure you have a water sources
For toilet paper you can consider the Wysi Wipes or similar. You can start your day with one as a hand towel then later use it for bathroom. They are tough and multi purpose, easy to inventory and carry and unlike toilet paper, if they get wet, no big deal. Since they are just cellulose they biodegrade so no issue there as well. People tend to love em or hate em so your mileage may vary.
How do you do river crossings! Do you just walk right across with your shoes on? How easily do they dry? Do you take your shoes off and try to dry your feet off? What do you do if the crossing is deep and will get your clothes wet?
Great question. Depends on a lot of things, some people just walk right across with their shoes on. Some take their socks and shoes off. The drying expect depends on the type of shoes, socks, clothes, etc. If its deep and your clothes get wet, well sometimes dealing with the suck, is your best bet. Of course, this is just my opinion.
I can't quite picture myself doing it, but I know Dixie leaves on her trail runners for river crossings, and then just walks in them until they're dry or dries them out in the sun. But carrying sandals works better for some people!
That is food for thought for me. I’m not hiking yet. However I’m doing festival camping and I was going to do a plain tarp for my ground cover. But maybe the Tyvek would work better.
Thank you for your wonderful videos. I enjoy them a lot. Have you ever experienced an encounter with Bigfoot? Or felt something weird close by that made you think it was a big food? Thanks again for your videos. God bless you. 20:55
I have a question: last year I started backpacking, two separate two week trips. My main problem I've encountered that I don't know how to deal with is extreme homesickness. It takes me out of the moment and it makes it really hard to appreciate the experience I'm having. I know this is something that will probably fade over time but it is so hard to deal with, at least for me. I'm a very family-oriented person and I'm the only outdoor/active person in my family. Are there any ways maybe anyone else here has dealt with this problem? I'd love to have a conversation about it!
Two years late to answer lol, but I’ve found that practicing mindfulness in my everyday life helps me do that out in nature. Practice living and experiencing the present moment and being aware when you start to ruminate or have repetitive unhelpful thoughts so you can refocus. I use a meditation app on my phone to help me practice. And it’s something you really do get better at the more you’re aware of it / practicing. Hope you’re still enjoying nature! ❤️
So glad you can talk about peein', poopin' and tow-lit paper without turning into a 12 year old. The practical information is very helpful.
You’re by far, my go to backpacking hiking guru. I love your communication style and your incredible easy going expertise on hiking. Keep up the good work.
Our Boy Scout council purchased large duffel bags used to contain and transport back packs by air when attending high-adventure bases. The one serious rule they had was that the trek participants were required to wear their hiking boots for the plane ride. The rationale was (learned by difficult experience) that if the entire set of back packing gear was lost in transit it could be replaced at the destination but broken in footwear was irreplaceable.
Every hiker, skilled or not, should watch your videos.
Thank you
Great video. I can add to the dressing in a hammock question. That in itself is a great reason to carry an opaque poncho...it becomes like an open ended dress, under which you can do all kind of things. Peeing. Dressing. Bathing....all kind of naked things!!! Of course it can also be your rain gear or supplement any rain related gear for your pack or your shelter. You can also use it to sit on, carry firewood, even gather water. All that to say there are multiple non conflicting reasons why it would be helpful to have a poncho with you anyway. They are definitely not uni-taskers! And versatile items tend to earn their place in your pack even if they are extra.
You might also make something like that out of tyvek. (Got to that part of the video) take a rect or diamond shaped piece and cut a slit in the middle for your head and do your naked things under it.
@@ThanatosWings you need a winter poncho hahahahah 🔥
I really like your videos because they're 100% content. You get straight to the point instead of waffling or having an overly long intro like a lot of youtubers do.
Just went on my first real back-packing trip this past week end. I don't have a boatload of money for a complete Ultralight kit so I packed everything I thought I needed (2 miles one-way) in and out. Set everything up, used what I needed, and now I know exactly what I do/don't need for a week of back packing. I still will have a heavier pack than a true Ultralight set but I have figured out how to get it down to a manageable weight.
Great info. Glad I found these Q&A videos. One suggestion on the air travel with a backpack... I have traveled a bunch for work. Used to be a road warrior for a while. I've had airports destroy luggage on a few occasions to include a hold-over for an avionics problem causing my luggage to stay in the cargo section for 4 hours during peak summer afternoon heat in Georgia. This melted parts of my luggage. I've had buckles and straps torn and broken too. If you box and ship your gear by UPS or FedEx to the nearest depot for pickup, you might very well save on a ton of heartache. Our packs aren't cheap. Some of our gear can be banged around also (titanium cookware, etc). I've shipped luggage, duffels, camera gear, and engine parts ahead of my trip and had a much better experience knowing I had a tracking confirmation and could be sure that any issues were covered by the insurance.
Dixie, Thank you for sharing your experiences/lessons in such an open way. The questions in this video inspired these comments:
Bear Can: They are usually NOT waterproof. I either line the inside with a plastic bag I can seal or put garbage sack over the can if it is on the ground. When kayaking, the weight of the can is not a problem and it doubles as a camp chair - but I store it away from camp - just like hanging food.
Privacy: Not only can you bring the tarp sides down for dressing (and stand behind the hammock), you can get a hammock that has, nylon panels on the ends ("doors"). The extra weight is trivial and can be offset by not needing as heavy a sleeping bag or top quilt (because the tarp interior is warmer). Also the doors provide more weather protection in blowing rain.
Peeing on Shoes: It helps to find a couple of rocks or stick you can put under your heels making it easier to squat without tipping over. Also finding a log/tree branch you can grab with one hand so you can lean back a little. Note, make sure it won't break in mid-exercise; just say'n.
Ice Axe: An ice axe takes a little training to use properly, instinctively, immediately. If you need it - you don't want to think about it - just pure muscle memory. Also, unlike the video, practice with some pants on or you'll abrade you skin on course snow. See if your local mountaineering group gives lessons. It is not intuitive. For example, without training, many erroneously try to stop dragging the adz instead of the pick.
Toilet Paper: Metamucil is your friend. I'm a vegetarian, my partner is a vegan; somehow we make it work. But moving away from my diet and towards her's (she cooks, I clean), my poo turned to paste - lots of clean up. Once I started taking a spoonful of Metamucil after each meal, things firmed up such that sometimes no work is necessary; clean with one swipe.
Tyvek: There is more to consider besides just the material. Various nylon colors give you levels of opaqueness (and joy) and there are seam sealers specifically formulated for the material. When Tyvek is new and smooth, it is noisy. When it is used and wrinkled (took me four washings to "soften" it up), it isn't what I'd want for tent/shelter walls. But I will try it as a ground cloth (footprint). I usually use black plastic (Visqueen) for that because, being black, it drys quickly. I put a little duct tape on the corners and write TOP on them so I always orient the same side down.
I'm a beginning hiker and your videos (especially the silly questions) have helped me sooooo much! Thanks!!
As for injections I have lots of experience being a type 1 diabetic For a long trip I carry an extra water bottle and put my used needles in there. Mark it with tape as Sharps and toss it in any trash can. I also have a old hard drive case that I carry my insulin in so it won't get smashed in my pack. If you really want to get outside you will find a way!
Do you have any more tips for another T1D? i am going on my first Trip and its just for a few weeks but I feel like there are always going to be some things I didnt think about yet :D How many supplies do you pack and donyou have any tips for lows on the trail?
How do you keep your insulin cold??
I have been backpacking since the 90s and have an outdoor leadership degree and I learn something new every time I watch one of your videos. There are so many great ways to do stuff and we never stop learning. Your videos are my favorite and encourage me to make my own, less interesting videos, lol. Great work and I love how you encourage everyone and don’t focus on doing something one way.
For airplanes and hiking poles I go to a used sporting goods store and buy a cheap bat bag. Pretty much the same as your duffel concept .... maybe just a little more compact and usually less than $10. I also buy a pool noodle and split it and insert the pole for a bit of protection from potential rough handling. Great vids!
That is genius.
I never would have thought about leapfrogging in a vehicle like that. So cool!
Tyvek, if you put it in a washing machine with an agitator , cold water and NO detergent it will soften it without affecting is water proofing. And, it's very quiet
Gotta try that
Put it in by itself or with other stuff?
@@AquaTech225 either way
The best advice I can give is to go on small practice trips, 2-3 days, before you go on something long. you will naturally learn all of this stuff, and then when Dixie gives these tips, they make a lot more sense. ya'll are smarter than you think.
I love watching your videos...easy to understand and entertaining. Im fairly new to backpacking, even though i was with the boy scouts for years. I am starting to do multiple days hoking trips and you have shown me good ways to lighten up. The AT is on my bucket list, and i want to do that before i turn 60. I am 55 now, but i just discovered i have a hole in my heart ( which they found after i had a mini stroke). So, i will have that fixed and then start getting ready for that hike.. i will do the Midstate trail and 100 Mile Woods first to make sure i will be ok...plus, all your viewers are great sources of info, too....keep hiking and smiling!
Thanks for being very to the point! My gf and I are new to backpacking and you've been a godsend for alot of much needed information!
I highly recommend keeping your TP in a sealed, waterproof plastic bag and making SURE any unused TP gets put back into the bag and sealed again immediately after use. It is especially important to verify that this protocol has been followed if you loan your TP to a fellow hiker, since not everyone is sufficiently intelligent or responsible to do the obvious. Learned the hard way the importance of getting your loaned TP back and sealed up while on a three day canoe trip in the Yukon back around '76. High bush cranberry leaves were the best available alternative to TP, and they were not very satisfactory, even after thawing the frost off them between bare hands. After that experience, I might trust my life to a friend - but not my TP. :) I wonder whether anyone else has had regrets after loaning something to a fellow adventurer.
Fred Cox I have. I gave a week worth of TP to a kid I was hiking with who did not bring their own. He used it all in 1 session leaving me without!
Hey dixie, thanks for your inspiration. 29 days Till my first 600km hike across Irland 🇮🇪 i am sooo anxious to Start.
Indeed
Are you going to do a Blog or Video blog of it ? I would be interested in seeing it or hearing about your hike. Thanks.
@@lindaselover2536 I have, but it´s mainly private, in german and I don´t want to promote it here in Dixies channel.
@@lifeIsWonderful2974 Have you started yet? I want to do the e8 in ireland this year in August and would really like to contact you! I'm german too. (Keine Ahnung wieso ich nicht auf deutsch schreibe:D)
@@patriciagrass6944 hi Patricia, just sitting next to the road about 1km to Borris. I started the south leinster way today. How can I Help? Can we send private messages on youtube? Aina
One of ghe best backpacking/hiking channels on youtube. Would be interested to hear about alternative cooking methods and setups such as nesting tins with alcohol burners and a wee camping pot/kettle on it to know how well they would do as opposed to full camping stove setups with various pots etc. And alternative light sources.
Dixie, thank you for your videos and for discussing "delicate" issues so openly. This video inspired these comments:
Bear Can: They are not waterproof so I line the inside with a sealable bag or put a plastic bag over it when I store it away from camp. The black can doubles as a chair. Weight is not an issue when kayak camping.
Privacy: In addition to bringing down the tarp's side, you can also stand behind the hammock. Get a tarp with nylon panels ("doors") on the ends. More privacy, warmer environment, more protection in blowing rain.
Pee on boots: put rocks or sticks under shoe heels for better balance when squatting. Grab a branch on a tree or fallen log with one hand to aid in leaning back. Note: Make sure the branch is strong enough so it will not break in mid-exercise; just say'n.
Ice Axe: Its use is not intuitive. Beginners often erroneously drag the adz instead of the pick. To be effective its use must be immediate, accurate, without hesitation - pure muscle memory. Get lessons from mountaineering group if you are going to carry one. Practice with pants - not bare legs shown in the video - or your skin will abrade on the coarse ice/snow.
Toilet Paper: Metamucil is your friend. I'm vegetarian, my partner is vegan; somehow we make it work. But cutting out dairy turned my poo to paste - lot's of work. A spoonful of Metamucil, or other psyllium product, after each meal firmed everything up. Often one swipe and I'm done. Much less hassle on the trail.
Tyvek, Too noisy when new, too wrinkly when softened up (at least four washings). Nylon shelters have specifically formulated seam sealers and give you a choice of opaqueness (and joy) via their color choices. I might use Tyvek as a ground cloth (footprint), but I usually use black plastic (Visqueen). It dries quickly in the sun and I put a little duct tape on each corner, writing TOP on one side so I always have the same ground side down.
Hello Dixie, thank you for another informative video. You handled all the questions quite well. Your name is well known and respected throughout the hiking community. I often refer new hikers to your channel for important information pertaining to hiking. Take care out there. Keep those informative videos coming. 🤗
Ronald Rose Thank you so much! I appreciate that :)
Have never hiked a day in my life, but your videos have given me SUCH a desire to go out and do something more! I just love watching your videos and think that the way you present your information is so awesome! Great job!!
Why don't you try it? You may like it!
I believe that the US and Canada have different maximum legal Capsaicin concentrations for bear spray, with the US allowing twice the strength (2% vs 1%) that is legal in Canada. So you probably can’t legally bring maximum strength bear spray from the US into Canada, but carrying the less concentrated Canadian bear spray into the US might be allowed depending on how you are transporting it.
Absolutely the best hiking/backpacking info source!!! Thanks for the education Dixie!
I've only gone on short weekend backpacking trips, and never in bear country. We've used "bear bags" to protect our food from other critters like racoons. But I've been told that if you do go into bear country, then you need to use a bear canister that is approved for the location you're backpacking in. Apparently, some bears in some areas have figured out how to open certain bear canisters, so those bear canisters are no longer approved for those areas. But it varies regionally.
Dixie thank you so much for your videos, your personality reminds me of why I love backpaking so much.
Love the fact that you’ll talk about anything! You’re so open and real. Keep it up!
you should watch second chance hiker
dude talks about crapping his pants
he also cried on camera while hiking on the side of an ice covered mountain
Another great one! Thank you for addressing so many basics that many assume everyone already knows!
Hi Dixie, awesome job on keeping us informed about every little bit and inspiring to develop the love for hiking and overcome the fears. Question about food and bear. Do bears come closer or charge at you for the food in backpack while hiking? What should you do?
The TP question, I found a portable bidet in which you just attach a nozzle to a water bottle. More hygienic and no needing to worry about TP all together
Constantly refreshed by your videos. You have managed to really capture the attention of a wide range of people and followers as well as blow some fresh air into this activity. So many thanks for your time and energy Dixie! Thanks constantly! :)
I will agree with George Frole. You are the first place I check for any hiking or backpacking tips and answers. Your videos are always factual, to the point without wasted commentary and you're not afraid to talk about the things we wonder but don't want to ask, I really appreciate that...
River crossing: Teva sandals or something like that. Also nice in the camp after wearing heavy boots all Day. We dan out of toilet paper, but grass and leaves... Greetings from the Netherlands!
the eeriness of the wilderness is an interesting feeling. I've been camping in the wild for a long time, but *still* squirrels in the trees at night sound like bears. Or monsters. :)
The eeriest sound I ever heard at night outdoors was the sound of the entire ground moving from all the insect activity in the soil…spending the entire trip worrying about ticks on top of massive cockroaches and then falling asleep to what sounded like every insect in the southeast burrowing under my tent did not for an easy sleep make.
Dixie, you are such a refreshing personality. Love your videos and can't believe some big camping products Corporation has not snapped you up as their spokesperson. Your communication skills are awesome. Enjoy all your videos. Best wishes.
Hey Dixie, to dispose of needles, find a local tattoo shop. They are required to have sharps containers for the needles they use. You might have to pay them a buck or two, but I am sure they will help you out.
Another fun and informative vid! Thank You! Yes, none of us came out of the box knowing these things, so it is totally OK to ask any question. 👍
I have made a 16ft long tent out of Tyvek, 7ft peak at one end other end goes to ground. I tie off on large tree in front at 7ft and use 3 tent pegs,. and have 8ft zipper in the front I even have it set up for a portable wood stove. The Tyvek was left over from a job, I also use a piece for a table cloth when eating crabs.
My friends and I used to backpack annually for 5 days but that was 25 years ago. So I am experienced but still thought these were good questions.
Another great video! I am looking for videos on healthier choices for hiking meals. Knorr is on the do-not-pack list.
Thanks for yet another Amazing video Dixie! As always, you continue to remain engaging and entertaining while being extremely informative! You cover things which some of us forget to ask, or haven't even considered! Thanks again and keep up the great work!
Interesting questions and answers! I haven't been able to find Tyvek in South Africa, but I did make some temporary tarp shelters in my backyard out of painters' plastic (a thick plastic sheet that painters put on the floor to protect it) when I was experimenting with designs for making a DIY tarp out of nylon. The plastic worked surprisingly well, it just obviously was not breathable at all so prone to condensation :)
For the bathroom questions, My method is to carry a little squirt water bottle and 2 bamboo washclothes. (Too switch out when they get crusty) For pee it's super easy to just squat and air dry or use the lightweight super soft and absorbent bamboo washcloth to dry. I tend to pick a bunch grass or little pile of dirt to pee on to avoid splashes. Gravel and rock are the worst for splashing yourself. Number 2 I rinse off with the little water bottle then use the cloth to dry off. I hate toilet paper because it leaves pieces, is wasteful, falls apart, and plus I don't have to worry about packing gross stuff out. I actually prefer the outdoor bathroom to modern indoor ones haha
Great video - thanks! My "silly"/embarrassing question: What is the etiquette surrounding passing gas while in camp, when everyone's separated into their tents but can still hear - & maybe smell - most of what goes on in all the other tents? Do you say "excuse me" and risk waking anyone already asleep? Or do you just pretend it didn't happen (or that it happened in someone else's tent)?
I'm not a hiker but I have a big problem with gas. Depending on place and company, I either make a joke about it [sorry I got my finger stuck and it got pulled] [Advise all that a fart is loading] or just say excuse me.
Just yell out..WAS THAT A BEAR?
@@shawnbrodrick8673 Love it! (And, upon being armed with this tidbit, I now feel fully ready to hike all the thru hikes!)
I'm about to hike the VA and NC portion of the AT. Your videos have helped tremendously. I feel more confident and prepared than before. Thanks , and keep up the great vids !!
If you're backpacking with a group, when you camp overnight is it better to designate a bathroom area the proper distance away and say, "ok everybody go to the bathroom over there" or is it better to disperse and everyone goes in a different direction and you say "ok nobody go over there that's where I went"...?
Thank you Dixie and all you other helpful hikers!
Rosemary Parks Hi, when I went through an LNT 3 day course, we went through part of siting your camp for the night, was designating cathole sites, even digging ahead. Changes in diet, hydration and stress can affect our habits, planning and preparing really works in group or solo situations.
Dixie, all up in here dropping KNOWLEDGE BOMBS! Fantastic video... AGAIN!
Excellent video as always. As far as TP goes folks can do a little research before leaving home. How many times a day do you use tp? How much tp do you use per event when you need a lot? How many days will you be on the trail? Calculate your projected need and bring just a bit more . . . just in case :0)
I make all of the ground sheets out of polycro. It’s super cheap on amazon. Like $5 for a huge piece. Tyvek works well too because it’s more durable, but a bit heavier. Great vid, Dixie! Enjoyed it 🙌🏻
For going to the bathroom: get a backpacking bidet and practice using it at home. Highly recommend
I have the pstyle because I’m in a semi with hubby and sometimes I just gotta be and there are no bathrooms near us. It has a holder with a carabiner you can get and it’s super easy to use this September I’ll use it on my first hike
If you’re willing to carry it you can buy personal sharps boxes for your needles. My mom had to do daily injections at home and she had her own sharps container.
In camping scenarios I've used a tarp or painter's drop cloth and wrapped it around two saplings that were close together and used that for changing and/or showering
Dixie, it is amazing to see how much you channel has grown from that first few thousand of us way back on the AT start...19,187 views in one day...i can remember some of the first videos took a loooooong time to reach 1000...
Yay you answered my question! 😁 Thanks Dixie. Your Facebook group is so helpful to me as I’m just in the very beginning of planning for a thru hike
19:30 Tyvek isn't all that robust for use in things like tents. For starters, it has no ripstop weave, so once a tear starts, it's pretty easy for that rip to open up wide. Second, it is not all that abrasion resistant when compared to ripstop nylon or DCF. The surface fibers will abrade and come loose if you scape them and eventually that will lead to a hole. It's reasonably good to use for ground sheets because it's very cheap compared to waterproof nylon or DCF, and it's really easy to find replacement sheets in most towns (any big box home improvement store and many smaller hardware stores). Using it in a tent would just result in needing to replace the tent fairly often, which means paying for the labor that went into making it - not too mention every failure is a night or a few in a leaky tent.
I used tyvek when I did roofing. It is strong, but its heavy and something sharp can rip through it like butter. In most cases it seems like a simple blue tarp would do better. Cant speak on it for backpacking related uses though. Maybe a tyvek poncho would be good lol.
Thanks for all the hard work you do on your videos Dixie. I'm a vlogger myself and I have a question for you. How do you completely get rid of ambient background noise like wind in your talking head style videos? I see you're wearing a lav mic, is that all you need to do to cut out so much background noise?
Hey dixie...I have given you smallgrief in the past but want to thank you for the videos....they are quite helpful in realation to backpacks, gear clothing and so on...I am not intrested in hiking as a sport but intrested in preparing for an emergency but your experience with through hikes and dealing with preparing for those hike is invaluble.... To me thanks again
Holland MI here
I totally agree with what you said about being comfortable in the idea of being uncomfortable
Being a noob hiker and camper this advise spoke to me as I am in uncharted territory in life
Thank you for being so straightforward. This was really clear!
Love all your videos carrying a bear canister with me will be hitting the AT 4/23.
Bear Spray in Canada - there is always Canadian Tire. If you are flying or worried about carrying it across the boarder. They carry it and it as common as Walmart. I have driven into Canada on numerous occasions. No times did I have issue with having Bear Spray. I was asked by immigration officers going into Canada, more like ''You do have pepper spray? - right?" I kind of laughed and said "Oh yeah!"
Hi Dixie! Ok, you have said that you use a short sleeping pad b/c you sleep with your legs on your pack but you've also said you are a side sleeper. I'm having trouble envisioning that... Do you take everything out of your pack every night so it's flat? Or is it half full (minus bag, pad, tent, of course) and bulky and your legs are more up in the air? But then how do you side sleep? Could you please elaborate or demonstrate? Sorry if this is in another video I haven't gotten to yet, still new here :)
Hey Dixie! First and foremost I just wanna say that you are my main inspiration when it comes to hiking/backpacking and it's something I'm just getting into but I find you have been a great resource for information, as well as entertainment!
Something that has caught my attention/interest was the AT Passport and other similar items I've seen in where you can acquire stamps along your journey, etc... I was wondering if you have used anything like this, what your thoughts on it were (did you like/dislike it, do you recommend it, etc...) and if possible, if you can suggest the best way to go about it? It seems like items like these are somewhat hard to plan (just based on my observations) and I thought if there was a good way to go about completing/using these that you could help point me and anyone else that may be interested in the right direction, or just share any useful tips regarding the subject.
I'm sure you get swamped with questions so I won't take it personally if ya don't get around to responding but I just wanna say thank you, in advance, either way! Take care of yourself and I always look forward to future uploads! ;)
Flying with backpacks: Duffel bags work well but i have also used a very large and thick trash bag to put the backpack in and some string to tie it up.
With my arc haul, flying, I take off the vertical struts, netback and anything else might hook up somewhere, (or be grabbed and broken) and put them inside the pack. Trekking poles inside as well. Then tie it all together tight so nothing will trail and get caught in mechanisms. Doesn't take long it's all quick fit. Plus you have carry on to cover any surplus that has to come out. I have also taken off the belt as well, but practice that one first, you need strong hands and if you've already taken off the pockets and tied it all together I'm not sure it's worth the trouble.
Another beautiful spring day in Alabama. Thanks for the backdrop.
TP and a flushable wipe is the best. Just pack out the wipe. I stayed on a sight I had stayed at 2 years prior and dug my prior wipe up whilst getting ready to move things b4 the trail. Seriously.
I asked an Army vet years back why MRE's only had 6 sheets of TP. He pulled one sheet from his roll of desktop discount kleenex (because no one steals it). He folded in half and wrapped it around his index finger. Question answered.
Another great vid! Cheers! Feeling thankful that there aren't any bears in our bush. 😣🙏
Glad someone asked about the tyvek. I wondered about it too. Thx!
Hey Dixie Zpacks now makes an airline bag to put their packs in. When not in use it doubles as a pack liner.
Yes, but compared to their $600 tent, how much does the pack bag cost?
$65. You get what you pay for. I have seen tents over $1000, cubanfiber tends to run around $26 a yard. So does silk. Good luck finding a wedding dress under a $1000.
I used a tarp made from Tyvek for a few years. I followed the Henry Shires Tarptent 2 man design. Mine included an integral floor from the same sheet of Tyvek using a fold on one side giving me waterproofness on that side. See www.backpacking.net/makegear/tarptent/index.html. It had all the issues others discussed: The floor eventually wore out since abrasion resistance is poor, tape could delaminate and come apart, and it sounded like a snare drum in the rain. It also would allow some water through in a hard rain. I would say it lasted for about 500 miles. Great DIY conversation piece, but not super functional. Use a Tarptent Notch now. Thanks Henry!
Great video! I hope this is a regular thing since I don't use facebook. 😊
About leapfrogging maybe a car/truck and a bike to save on a second car? And you can drive ahead and drop off the bike.
Dixie you're just the best! Love from Washington State 🌲
Hi Dixie. Love your videos. I was wondering if you ever go back to an area that you went through during a thru-hike, with more time to enjoy the area.? What I was specifically thinking about was the Sierras. I have spent a lot of time in the Sierras. They are beautiful with all of the snow, but, they are incredible in a completely different way with the green meadows, wildflowers, being able to explore, etc. There is so much to see and enjoy that you are enjoying in a completely different way when there is a timeline. Just wondering. Thanks
What if a company like REI hired you and you could do in person and virtual hiking work shops, was a spokes person and model for a clothing company including modeling the clothing line in your workshops and lead multi day hikes on major trails. You have the good looks to be for sure a hiking and outdoor super model, if there is such a thing. I follow a few blogs and have found your content right on target, honest and credibility is your brand. Thanks. Texas Jack
"...unless you want to see the full moon in the daylight..." Missy, you crack me up.
You're videos are just the best Dixie!
Excellent video, Dixie!! You are terrific at explaining lots of information in an easy to understand way. I'm so looking forward to seeing your upcoming adventure with your Ma and Fancy!! :D
I fuckn love Dixie like whenever I have a question on my mind I find one of her videos suggested 👌🏼 I'm doing my 1st hike solo in a couple of days wish me luck.
its funny, I hadn't even realised I wasn't scared of being in the outdoors alone anymore, until I watched this video. it definitely fades.
Dixie, you are inspiring!
If I have questions about planning a thru hike on a popular trail (outside of the US) that there are no other vlogs - and obviously I would like Your advice - what's the best way/s to ask you those questions and get your advices?
Accidentally clicked on your video, and glad I did! Very informative, down to earth and not loaded with fluff or fillers.
Yep, made a tarp tent out of tyvek. Used it on the max patch to hot springs section. It was windy that night and so loud from the tyvek I did not sleep a wink. Everytime a small acorn or branch fell out of a tree it sounded like a dead man was coming down
I had installed grommets and all
Total fail, did keep me dry and AWAKE.
I thought about making a bivy out of some tyvek...it could work
‘The bush’ is a popular term in Alaska, too.
Thanks Dixie, always enjoy your presentations, very informative with a good deal of humor. Be Well.
My wife is my hiking buddy (she's my everything buddy) but doesn't want to do the PCT though we do small sections of it. I don't like backpacking without her. Question: I believe the protocol is to poo 200 feet from the trail. That's 2/3 of a football field. I have never peed that far away. What do people realistically do? Thank you.
Thanks for this video! You do great work and have helped us prepare for our LEO Honor Hike.
Toilet paper comment: we hiked with our 2 daughters on the pct in the eighties and ran out of toilet paper on the 3rd day of a 6 day hike in goat rocks. Our five year old was having non of that, and proceeded to strip every large leaf she could find along the trail, and stuffing her pack with leaves. It was imperative that we figure a solution quick! We had a few extra wash cloths with us, so we designated one wash rag as a bottom rag and one as a face rag. These rags are kept in separate ziplock bags with separated soap for each bag. We discovered, we stayed a lot cleaner and less smelly using this technique. So we never packed toilet paper again. We have hiked hundreds of miles since then using the old bottom rag/and face rag system.
Dixie please come to Canada & do the GDT, you’d be soooo happy that you did it!! You’re such a sweetheart, an amazing woman, you and I trust & respect your advice and I’d be honoured to hike with you a little...I have been following you for all 3 of your hikes and I just can’t imagine you not doing more of these adventures! You have inspired & motivated me more than you can ever imagine & I thank you from the bottom of my heart! ...and congrats to you; you’re a lean, mean, triple crown Queen 👑....except you’re not mean, I’ll work on that lol 😆! ✌️♥️from 🇨🇦(Alberta)
I'm in Alberta too. I'd bring trail magic 😎
Laura right?! Me too!
For the needle I take a old med bottle with me just put the bio haze +on it found on amazon a company company that give you pens and needle holders that you can put put water on them and you can keep it cold for almost weeks just make sure you have a water sources
For toilet paper you can consider the Wysi Wipes or similar. You can start your day with one as a hand towel then later use it for bathroom. They are tough and multi purpose, easy to inventory and carry and unlike toilet paper, if they get wet, no big deal. Since they are just cellulose they biodegrade so no issue there as well. People tend to love em or hate em so your mileage may vary.
How do you do river crossings! Do you just walk right across with your shoes on? How easily do they dry? Do you take your shoes off and try to dry your feet off? What do you do if the crossing is deep and will get your clothes wet?
Great question. Depends on a lot of things, some people just walk right across with their shoes on. Some take their socks and shoes off. The drying expect depends on the type of shoes, socks, clothes, etc. If its deep and your clothes get wet, well sometimes dealing with the suck, is your best bet. Of course, this is just my opinion.
I can't quite picture myself doing it, but I know Dixie leaves on her trail runners for river crossings, and then just walks in them until they're dry or dries them out in the sun. But carrying sandals works better for some people!
That is food for thought for me. I’m not hiking yet. However I’m doing festival camping and I was going to do a plain tarp for my ground cover. But maybe the Tyvek would work better.
Thank you for your wonderful videos. I enjoy them a lot. Have you ever experienced an encounter with Bigfoot? Or felt something weird close by that made you think it was a big food? Thanks again for your videos. God bless you. 20:55
Who are these 21 people who dislike Dixie’s videos? The number is too consistent. I smell a conspiracy.
I have a question: last year I started backpacking, two separate two week trips. My main problem I've encountered that I don't know how to deal with is extreme homesickness. It takes me out of the moment and it makes it really hard to appreciate the experience I'm having. I know this is something that will probably fade over time but it is so hard to deal with, at least for me. I'm a very family-oriented person and I'm the only outdoor/active person in my family. Are there any ways maybe anyone else here has dealt with this problem? I'd love to have a conversation about it!
Two years late to answer lol, but I’ve found that practicing mindfulness in my everyday life helps me do that out in nature. Practice living and experiencing the present moment and being aware when you start to ruminate or have repetitive unhelpful thoughts so you can refocus. I use a meditation app on my phone to help me practice. And it’s something you really do get better at the more you’re aware of it / practicing. Hope you’re still enjoying nature! ❤️