Yapping, headphones on, prancing not paying attention .... Slim .... we all hear the disgust in your voice and LOVE it. You have the same tone when you talk about generators. Keep the wonderful videos coming. We love them all. Take care.
I’ve had Lyme Disease from a tiny tick and been chased by a big mama moose worried about her calf, so yep “it” sometimes happens. But things turned out fine in the end and like you suggested it just makes the outdoor adventures more...adventurous! There are plenty of risks just taking a walk in the city but we don’t restrict our lives because of them. We shouldn’t do so in the outback either. Love your videos, Slim.
Merwin ARTist 1 second ago I was going to say something similar .. but instead I'll suggest that we often project our fears off onto those strangers we meet. Many times .. it's people we know .. who create problems. People we have become comfortable with. People who live in the cities .. that's where the greatest concern is .. not the woods. However if you are a city person .. coming to the country .. it's best that you keep your guard up .. your doors locked .. and trust no-one! That's how a country person feels when the visit the city. 😉✌
@@DoctorShocktor Only because there are very few of them around and it's pretty rare that you will encounter one. There are 330 million people in the US. I would rather come across a human in the woods than a bear. There is less than a 1% chance the human will kill me or harm me. But there is a 50 to 99% chance a bear would if I were too close, or if the animal was hungry.
Great video Slim! The only other things besides the Lifestraw, for hikers would, of course be to bring your own water. A small day pack, with a fire starter & space blanket would be advisable. Hypothermia & dehydration are killers also. Thanks again for your great vids!
RIGHT ON! When hiking be prepared to maintain your core body temperature by adding or removing layers of clothing & keep yourself fully hydrated. I've been carrying the Grayl Water Filter & use it to replenish water to the reservoir inside my backpack when needed.
It's always puzzled me how people can be so afraid of Ma Nature. I grew up in Northeast, lived in Florida for 19 years. And, no matter where I've lived, been more comfortable outdoors. I am preparing (having just closed on the sale of condo) to go Full time RVing, especially in part, because of people like yourself. You have shared your love of Nature, the pros and cons of traveling as a nomad and made me realize that I need to travel and see more of what I love. What it comes down to is having a healthy respect for coexisting with Nature's critters. So, Thank you, Slim!
Slim you cant have us waiting that long youre better than a sitcom lol. Beautiful video as usual. Love seeing the world through your lense. Love listening ro your perspectives. As ive statedto you before i hooe to live as free as you are someday. Jeep thwm coming. Just dont make us wait so long. We get worried about you lbs.
Being a long distance hiker for three decades...the only time i had trouble was during a morning walk in a large inner city park. The weather *hadn't* call for rain..i was soaked to the bone and my cell phone shorted out. I was on a paved trail that seemed to loop. I couldnt find a way out. Almost 2 hours later a cyclist found me and called 911. I was less than a km from my car and shivering uncontrollably in the middle of a city in the middle of summer. I' ve gone weeks in the backcountry without seeing roads..and was finally defeated by a bike trail that twins twice together, a lack of raingear, and wearing cotton fabric.
Great video Slim. Usually, at least for me, people are the most unpredictable critters. But most of the time people give clues to their intentions and I can tell if I need to keep the interaction short. Fortunately, I meet more good then bad😊
I lost my rental car at the NASCAR race track north of Las Vegas NV. Went to an airshow, had a great time, went back to where I thought I parked the car, and could not find it. All rental cars look alike! Walked in concentric circles for about 2 hours, clicking the key fob, which has a very short range, turns out. The next day I purposefully parked next to the bank of porta potties and no problem finding my rental car that day!
If you have the typical cell phone, take a few pictures of your car in line with prominent landmarks, first toward your destination, then 180 degrees in the opposite direction. Notice the things that line up behind your landmarks as well and you’ve got plenty of reference. Also memorize the info and items in case your phone battery dies. (But always carry a small battery pack to major events as well.
How refreshing! First, your “KISS” approach to everything. Second, someone who understands depth of field. It is so NICE to watch a video w/out the pulsating-searching auto-focus. It amazes me how many photo/video YT gurus use auto focus for locked off talking head shots. Bravo Slim, bravo. Happy trails... from a long time subscriber.
I go solo hiking or travel and never have had any issues. Animals do not scare me but humans....I don't get lost as I have built in navigation. Others I am with have no sense of direction. You are correct. Great video!!!
Excellent video. Been camping in British Columbia for 30 years and never had a problem with wildlife or critters. Had more issues with other people and their animals. Spot on.
Impressed at the planning you must put into these videos, given the smooth segue from not only one scene to the next, but one season to another whilst maintaining one conversation thread.
Best advice on the little stinging critters is to always look where you are placing your hands and feet and your seat! Sitting on a yellowjacket would be way bad.
People will spend upwards of $4000 dollars a week for a relaxing vacation, for just a week. I have never seen any of those people as happy, or relaxed as you are in this video. And, you do it for months at a time on a much simpler budget. You have truly found, and embraced the key to happiness. Keep it up!
I am from South Arkansas and spent the majority of my time hunting in the bottom lands of various rivers. Many of those areas were "swampy" to say the least. When it comes to getting lost, I have to fall back on a quote attributed to Daniel Boone: ""I can't say I was ever lost, but I was once bewildered for about 3 days.”
Traveling reminds me of: "When longing is greater than fear, courage is born. Without longing, we do not set off." Rainer Maria Rilke, European poet. Greetings from Bavaria, Germany.
“The world is here for our journey so if we don’t explore it we are not making full use of our pass”… yes by me I engraved it and painted it on my camper
I can honestly say I've never been lost on one of my hiking adventures and yes there have been many over the years. Being an outdoorsman with a medical condition you carry supplies and pay attention to where you are in relation to base camp. The best advise I ever got from an old timer was to take a deck of cards along, if you find yourself lost relax and play a game of solitaire, wont take long before someone will be looking over your shoulder helping you with your next move. Thanks for sharing
Kronan My scariest "lost" moments have been night fishing when a thick fog rolls in and you can't see any shore, nor sun, stars, or lights. I now try to carry a small gps about as big as your palm that will tell you how far and what direction to go to get back to your starting point. Cost about $60 and saves alot of anxious moments. Keep up the good work!
Interesting, I used to go duck hunting in the sounds of NC. Went with guides and fog would come in and no visibility. Even difficult to tell which direction voices were coming from. A bit unnerving.
You conducted valuable research for this video. I really appreciate how you always get to the point and not talk senselessly as other RUclipsr's so often do. Thank you for your insight.
Excellent video! I recently purchased and activated a Garmin inReach satellite device that allows one to text and if necessary request help when without phone service. I almost always camp and hike alone so it’s just a bit of extra security in case of an accident....
I've been carrying a Garmin 62ST GPS with me when hiking/geocaching. Thanks to it, I make a specific point of hiking loops because I KNOW I can get back to the point where I started. YES, I also carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) which I'd activate ONLY IF I'm unable to return to the trailhead under my own power. ResQLink. Yes, I hike alone, however, I always tell friends generally where I'll be hiking B4 I start out. I've done a lot of loop hikes in the Superstition Mountains & thanks to my GPS I always KNOW where I am in relation to where I should be.
Yup ... I have a Garmin InReach too. It works great … when I remember to bring it with me. I use it more for lack of cell service rather than used for navigation.
@@ScubaSteveCanada I should have mention, I also carry an ACR ResQLink Personal Locator Beacon in case I'm unable to return to the trailhead under my own power.
Hey Slim, I’ve been a subscriber for awhile now just wanted to say how much I enjoy your channel. Definitely in the top 3 of favorites. My wife and I have been researching for a couple years getting ready to build a small all aluminum fifth wheel to pull with my 2017 Tacoma. Although we originally started with the idea of a converted bus but soon came to the realization that was just more the we want to go through. The actual living space could change again before we begin. We really like the a-liners we have been seeing. Definitely would need a good trailer as we intended to get off the beaten path. We will begin our adventure after our beloved senior dog has gone. It’s a lot of work caring for an old friend like him. We have no intention on bringing a pet on the road nor do we want to go this way again. Just glade you are on RUclips to help sort out the details. Thanks again.
Been camping and exploring the back country of Colorado for over 50 years and have never had a bad experience. Knowledge and common sense go a long way even if you factor in the art of humans screwing up sometimes, self included. Thanks for the good content Slim.
Hi Slim. Great info as always 👍. I would like to add that noise should accompany bear spray as a deterrent. My son who is an Environmental Ecologist and often works in remote areas of Alberta and now B.C. and has hiked the continental divide uses a commanding low voice every 3-5 minutes saying “hey ho” so that wildlife are alerted. You don’t want to surprise our furry friends! I must admit he has sent me pics of himself working as a scout with very large wild animals very near in the background. Yikes! 🙈
Spent many years as a young adult solo backpacking in Sierras and camping in Baja Mexico. Greatest danger I encountered were other people. Shot at three times (once intentionally, once by accident, once I didn't hang around to figure it out LOL). Twice I just walked up and made myself known and not prey. Getting lost - If you are going to come back the way you came from, stop and look back at the trail or route regularly then look around for landmarks along the way,. Often the trail looks so different heading back if you don't do this and you might think you are lost when you are not. Also, bring a small day pack with you with water and purifier, food, fire starter, compass, whistle, maybe sweater and topo map depending how long you may hike and type of terrain you are hiking in. Got completely lost for two and a half days in Lassen back country after crossing some snow and losing the trail but not a problem as I had emergency supplies and plenty of extra food on my back and a map. Was not too worried knowing that I had prepared for the chance of getting lost. After a few days the map helped me to find my way out. Got lost in the sierras on a solo day hike for a few hours after a heavy snow came in and buried the trail while I was hiking making nothing look familiar. Same thing, had what I needed for an emergency so didn't panic and using my head gradually found my way back way back out safely. Just use your head and don't fear everything. These are self confidence building experiences. Life is to be lived and not feared.
Lived in Arizona all my life (65+yrs) been stung many times by scorpions as has my wife and children. Put ice on it immediately if possible. Hurts like the dickens for some people but not so much for me. We live in the mountains now so don’t see them anymore. We love watching and listening to your videos. Been camping all my life and love the solitude.
Enjoyed the video and agree that common sense is top of list in avoiding scary experiences. Speaking of insects, this summer I made a screen for our Aframe door using a magic mesh magnetic screen door ($20 at Walmart). I rigged it to line the door and help fight off bugs by cutting back the sides of the mesh screen to fit the doorframe, and then resewed the outside seams back onto the mesh so it is reinforced all around the edges. I sewed the velcro onto the mesh on locations shown in directions.The mesh is attached by sticky-back velcro that is placed on the inside doorframe. Works great...the magnets close the screen automatically after you walk through the door in either direction. We only put it up when needed and it rolls into a small ball for storage. Having said all that, the last few years we've noticed there are fewer insects, which is not a good thing in the big picture!
Good practical advice. I’m currently boondocking in the Coconino National Forest and been here for the last 6 days. I haven’t seen another soul the entire time. Fresh bear droppings near my campsite yesterday morning but nothing to find here. Everything meticulously put away at night. I carry bear spray but have never had to use it. The most common question I get asked is “aren’t you scared.” Nope. Another caution, when camping in the desert, or anywhere, pull back your bedding and inspect it before crawling in. Little critters like to hide.
I'm happy to have just viewed this video & to have read all replies up to this point + I added a couple of comments. I hike/geocache by myself & thanks to my Garmin GPS 62ST I always know where I am in relation to where I should be. I carry & use a Grayl Water Purifier most every time I'm out hiking which is at least once a week, year-round. And there is a BIG difference between a Water PURIFIER & a Water FILTER. I carry a 4" el cheapo Mora knife in a scabbard on the shoulder harness of my backpack; it is readily accessible & visible to others, just in case. I believe I'm safer out hiking/geocaching by myself than walking down a city street at night. And I've hiked many loop hikes in the Superstition Mountains in Arizona, thanks to my GPS I've NOT gotten lost.
AZ: Yes, several microns difference between filter and purifier. Just adding that if one has a choice between a filter and a purifier go with the purifier. I also hike alone, have for years but always with compass and map. Does your GPS unit offer you a way to send a rescue signal if out of cell phone range or do you carry something else?
@@williambranham6249 My GPS has NO capability of SENDING a signal to a Satellite. It is strictly a "receiver". I don't carry a cell phone. I carry something better than a cell phone, a Personal Locator Beacon that will transmit my exact location to a satellite if I'm unable to return to the trailhead under my own power. ACR's ResQLink does only one thing; it transmits the STRONGEST 5 WATT signal to the satellite & that signal goes directly to Search & Rescue. The ResQLink is the one the Coast Guard puts in their lifeboats; that should tell you something. PLZZZ, plzzzz, don't buy a SPOT Personal Locator for numerous reasons, the primary reason being it transmits a weak .4 Watt signal, that is 4/10 of one watt & won't even penetrate an overhead tree canopy.
@@azclaimjumper Thanks for the wonderful info. One other question if you don't mind. I think your comments are helpful for all readers. I mainly hike on the east coast -the Appalachians. Is the ACR ResQLink able to pick up a satellite even in very mountainous areas when very little sky is present. I'm referring to being stranded and mobility is a problem.
@@williambranham6249 That is the very situation that ResQLink SHINES, thanks to its powerful 5 WATT signal which will penetrate tree canopy & clouds. If you are deep in a slot canyon, a satellite will need to be directly overhead to receive the signal which the ResQLink will send continuously for 24 hours, a signal that includes the co ords of where you are stranded. Do yourself a favor; enter this search term, "ResQLink vs SPOT". Also, go to ACR's website. Look along the top for "SURVIVOR CLUB". There you will read life threatening situations that were saved thanks to an ACR product. ACR will refurbish your unit & replace the batteries which are NOT user- replaceable IF you've filed a police report of the incident & gone to the Survivor CLUB & written up your story. When you're in a life-threatening situation the ONLY PLB you want, THE ONE YOU CAN COUNT ON, is ResQLink.
I love that feeling of security.. Glad you have that.thanks for the information. Life straw is a good option. People disappearing in national parks is under reported.. read David Paladies book on strange disappearances in parks. He was a police officer that wrote a book on the topic after much research and interviewing families.
Just a note about tics. Just check yourself everyday quickly if you hike or whatever. I got a tic on my thigh in Scotland when I was wearing trousers thick socks etc
We've been following you for over a year and anticipate over time for the next adventure. Speaking about your last video on water, animals and getting lost. I'm surprised on how many people would even ask those questions. You must have a lot from the cities that dont get out into nature much. Only thing we need to fear is ourselves.
Loved this very informative video laced with lots of good Slim humor. There are lots of cues in the woods. Like moss growing on the trees. My friend takes a bright red piece of chalk and makes an "x" on the opposite side of the trees on the right side as he hikes in the woods, just about every 4-6 ft. He's never been lost. Great video Slim👍 Thanks for sharing.
In addition to bear spray, I carry a mini-marine air horn. I've used it a number of times on aggressive dogs and once to scare off a mom and her bear cubs that were raiding the campsite next to me. Available on Amazon or most sporting goods stores for less than $10.
Great informational video, SP. I do get bothered by other people’s irrational fears. You handled this well. I’m trying to think of what I worry about when traveling or hanging out in woods, etc. I realize I am at times influenced by others ... so thanks again. I grew up in Northern MN crawling through woods picking berries or playing with family and neighbor kids and never got lost. None of us were mauled or eaten by wild animals. BUT, my brother was bitten badly by a pet dog! So there we go!
Good stuff.. A robin redbreast nearly ate out of my hand today my heart was pounding, I think that spooked him-her, will try again tomorrow.., the small things in life are very special also xx
Companion: What if we meet a mountain lion? Me: Run Companion: Do you think you can run faster than a mountain lion? Me: No, but I know I can run faster than you. Great video :)
General rule for the big cats is "if you see the cat, it's not hungry". Don't let small children or pets stray too far from the party. And always put an adult at the end of the party to run Tail-end Charlie, cats will attack from behind. Out here on Vancouver Island, the only animals not affected by island dwarfism are the cougars...
I solo backpack, bike pack & kayak pack often for the past 5 years, and at first you do have some anxieties but they soon fade and you find yourself the most at ease in the wild. I am more cautious of other humans I may encounter, which are few.
Great common sense video Slim. Thanks for taking the time to make it. Here in Michigan we had Eastern Equine Encephalitis which mosquitoes are carriers this summer in the southern part of the state. Where half dozen people died, also handful of horses. If you get it 1 out of 3 die. Also nerve and muscle activity damage to the ones who make it though it. Bug spray always!
Great advice Slim. Landmarks are good to remember. I know what direction I’m going at most times. My dad always told me if I got lost to follow a water downstream and it will come out in populated area eventually. I’ve watched some of David Paulides talks and they can be very cautioning. Definitely get your head knowledge and maybe go on some guided hikes too.
Slim you’ve done it again. Great video. In Australia we have some of the most deadly animals on earth. I have been camping all my life almost 50 years and have never really been worried about all them. Thanks again HAPPY CAMPING.
Slim. Love the comment... "Concerns, from people"... love it. AGREED many dogs are REAL issues, and danger, in town also.. generally, owners fault. I had a friend jumped by a "pack of wild domestic" dogs, in a national park.. They were real lucky but feared for their life's.
For those who venture out into the wilderness, I highly recommend each carry a PLB (personal locator beacon). They can be purchased on Amazon or at sporting goods retailers such as Bass Pro, Gander Mountain etc. The PLB is a radio device when activated will send a signal to a satellite which will alert local authorities there is an emergency at your location using GPS locators.
If you hike much, you will get lost sometimes. It’s much easier not to panic if you are prepared with a rain jacket, extra warm layer, some energy bars, a way to get clean water, and hopefully a way to get unlost, like a GPS and backup map and compass. It also helps to know how to use them.
Good one, Slim. Well done. Rather than citing the old and familiar "Lions and tigers and bears, oh my" (from The Wizard of Oz movie) you've pointed your viewers in a more appropriate direction. These days it pays to be wary of Skeeters and People and Pets.
Loved seeing the terminus of I-84 at I-5. There are a lot of lost people in the Portland area, many homeless, and camping anywhere near some of them is dangerous. Lots of America's addicts and mentally unstable are homeless. It's a sad situation.
26 years as a road gypsy and the one thing that kills the most people in america other than disease is auto fatalities. Texas alone kills 3000 people annually and has been doing that since 1993 when I began my life as a long haul trucker. At no time have I ever been harassed by wild life when I sleep in areas where predators reside. As far as water and supplies, there is a unique economy to this life and you eventually learn just how far you can stretch a 20oz bottle of water. This life may frighten many who have lived hugely sheltered lives but if you pay attention, keep your head and respect the road and nature you will be fine. I’m currently in my big rig in California. This past month I’ve been from Utah to Miami to Texas to Nevada to Arizona to California. Next load brings me back to Utah. My truck is my home. My apartment is only a requirement by state and federal law. My Rockwood A212hw is my utopia. Both Slim and I have something very much in common in that we both have lived this life for years-decades and we are both happy and healthy so we must be doing something right.
There have been times when I've been out in nature along and a magical moment happens when a great appreciation of the enormous mystery and awesomeness of nature floods through me. I feel humbled and fragile and very much one with nature. I also know that my death would/will be just be another part of nature. That too can be scary.
The animal I worry about most when I'm out camping is Mice. I've had mice build a nest on my cars engine while camped for a couple days. This can lead to a fire if they built on or near the exhaust manifold. I always have a look under the hood before I drive off. If you leave your coffee cup outside, make sure you turn it upside down unless you like "chocolate sprinkles" in your next cup of joe.
John, I have watched several videos lately about this subject. I've had one experience while leaving a car at a trail head in the winter. 2 weeks later opened the trunk and mice had chewed sweaters, chewed every food bag or food container their teeth would let them. What a mess!
@@oysterfleet5669 I thru hiked the AT many years ago. I made my list of essentails: which was more than 10 and before electronic devices. These lists are interesting in that often it reflects the fears of the person making the list. For example I never carried a knife but many do. I think Duct tape and paracord, if not both, then certainly paracord can solve lots of problems.
@@williambranham6249 I used to carry a Swiss Army knife until Leatherman came along. I like Gaffers tape better than Duct Tape, but they're in the same league. Paracord is a wonder. The inner strands can be used for a number of things. Making due with what you have when something breaks and figuring out how to fix it is part of the experience. As I get older I take notes and work on improving things when I get back to "civilization".
@@oysterfleet5669 I used to be a gearhead as some say. Colin Fletcher is my hero. His series of books "The Complete Walker" are invaluable. Copies can be picked up very cheap now.
1. You seem like a great guy to hike and camp with. I love and respect all animals but am the one who wants to be as close as possible to observe the bears, deer, etc. I love to get lost in any journey. It makes life so much more fun to enjoy. Love to hold the snakes but well not into rattlers of course. lol. You are so right about the freeways. Too funny. I think it would be great to go camping or hiking with you sometime. I'm working on leaving the northeast by at least next year sometime but might be able to visit Arizona in January for a day or two or go to the RTR to meet some people who travel together that I've seen on RUclips for a while now. 2. My main concern after reading the list of stuff you use is to change your battery system to only include one type of battery. 3. My grandmother put it one way = "If you don't like the bugs don't feed them." That really goes for any creature you don't want to attract. Nothing it totally foolproof but the more you study what nature needs to survive, the more you know what they are really looking for. Also, spiders love bugs so if you attract bugs, then you will attract the spiders who will be camping out to catch those bugs for their meals. There are more dangers of death in the house full of abusive neglectful people who trash up the house I live in right now than the woods any day. I'm getting ready to put on my mask so that I don't get sick again with more asthma and allergy problems.
Hi there! I enjoyed camping, jungle trekking and hiking in my teenage years. But as I got older and older, I grew increasingly afraid of doing so for fear of wildlife. I kinda developed phobias with most wildlife especially snakes of all sizes as well as other crawling creatures, leeches, bears, tigers, etc. In the back of my mind, I perceive that staying outdoors, for example, camping in an open space would be unsafe even if there's little or no real danger present. That's pretty sad. I wish I could just carry out outdoor activities again because nature is so beautiful.
Good effort there Slim! My two bits worth : Mountain streams are generally pretty clean . While traveling up the BC coast we used the streams that came down the sea and were easy to get at by the boat . I seem to recall my Dad would put about a cup of bleach to 25 Gallons? spot on about the dogs and getting lost...
Yep... we had a couple of bear fatalities in Alaska and as Slim mentions the couple were outside the the Anchorage area in small parks (not really national parks) where people were jogging or some went off the trails. I see/hear more bear sightings in Anchorage than I do out in the valley areas.
I learned the most about 'walk about" in the wilderness... from a copy of the Boy Scouts Handbook when I was younger. It has a lot of super useful info for camping and address all aspects of getting along and survival in the "wild" . I don't know if it still exists, but if you find a copy, buy it.
Hi, Looks like you and me have spent an equal amount of time on trails, nearly 60 years for me. All good, common sense advise. Basic knowledge goes a long way to enjoy the outdoors. Enjoyed watching. Thanks
Life straws in MHO are not worth the money you spend on them. You need a filter system that allows you to fill a container. The straw is basically for a quick stop and only provides a means to address your thirst right then. If you're thirsty 15-mins later and have moved away from your water source, you are out of luck. Take the money and buy a small Sawyer filter - the type that screws onto a basic plastic bottle. I've traveled all over the world and I either have my Sawyer or my GRAYL with the orange filter. Navigation - I always carry a small GPS and the first thing I do when camping, is mark my camp site. A good friend uses an old IPhone. What he does is download off-line maps of the area he plans to camp in. Then, once settled he'll turn the phone on and open whatever map program he is going to use. The satellite link works regardless of whether the phone has an active subscription to a network provider. What the iphone basically becomes is a GPS unit. He can then easily navigate with his phone and maps and not worry about having to connect to a cellular network. In disbelief, I tried this on a recent trip and sure enough it worked. You just need to make time to down load the maps for off-line usage. If you're not into electronics, a good paper map is always good.
I carry & use the Grayl Water Purifier on nearly every hike & I hike at least once a week, throughout the year. I agree with you about the Life Straw; there are much better alternatives.
Chaos. How do you download maps if you don't have a subscription? Just curious. Also a good paper map ,in my opinion, is essential regardless of the electronics.
@@williambranham6249 I have my old IPHONE connected via wifi for map downloads. I normally try to download everything from home or my second best place is a good coffee shop.
In the (over) seven decades of my life, there have been innumerable times when I didn't know exactly where I was, but I've never felt that I was lost, even in the wilderness.
Yapping, headphones on, prancing not paying attention .... Slim .... we all hear the disgust in your voice and LOVE it. You have the same tone when you talk about generators. Keep the wonderful videos coming. We love them all. Take care.
Here's a tip for not getting lost when hiking... look back occasionally so you know what you'll be looking at when you are returning.
Also handy for getting back to your car in town
Carrying a map and compass helps too.
Aaron Wantuck knowing how to use them is equally important.
always look behind you frequently because things look different on the way back
Slim, I feel like you’re the Bob Ross of the solo traveller world.
I keep waiting for him to say happy little squirrels
I can see that!
I’ve had Lyme Disease from a tiny tick and been chased by a big mama moose worried about her calf, so yep “it” sometimes happens. But things turned out fine in the end and like you suggested it just makes the outdoor adventures more...adventurous! There are plenty of risks just taking a walk in the city but we don’t restrict our lives because of them. We shouldn’t do so in the outback either. Love your videos, Slim.
I am more afraid of people than animals.
Merwin ARTist
1 second ago
I was going to say something similar .. but instead I'll suggest that we often project our fears off onto those strangers we meet. Many times .. it's people we know .. who create problems. People we have become comfortable with. People who live in the cities .. that's where the greatest concern is .. not the woods. However if you are a city person .. coming to the country .. it's best that you keep your guard up .. your doors locked .. and trust no-one! That's how a country person feels when the visit the city. 😉✌
Apparently, you haven't come across any bears, mountain lions, or wolves.
RedRider1600 Although one should take precautions, all the animals you mention kill very few humans per year.
@@DoctorShocktor
Only because there are very few of them around and it's pretty rare that you will encounter one.
There are 330 million people in the US.
I would rather come across a human in the woods than a bear. There is less than a 1% chance the human will kill me or harm me. But there is a 50 to 99% chance a bear would if I were too close, or if the animal was hungry.
yes 👍👍👍👍
Way to Go Slim, keep inspiring the rest of us to take the high road, rough road to challenge our sense of adventure ! (including shopping at Walmart )
Yes, Get WATER at Walmart but CAMP in the Wilderness. Some people get that backwards for some reason! SP
We have been looking for you! Welcome back!
"Prancing thru the forest" hahahaha good one😀 also spit my coffee out
Great video Slim! The only other things besides the Lifestraw, for hikers would, of course be to bring your own water.
A small day pack, with a fire starter & space blanket would be advisable.
Hypothermia & dehydration are killers also. Thanks again for your great vids!
RIGHT ON! When hiking be prepared to maintain your core body temperature by adding or removing layers of clothing & keep yourself fully hydrated. I've been carrying the Grayl Water Filter & use it to replenish water to the reservoir inside my backpack when needed.
It's always puzzled me how people can be so afraid of Ma Nature. I grew up in Northeast, lived in Florida for 19 years. And, no matter where I've lived, been more comfortable outdoors. I am preparing (having just closed on the sale of condo) to go Full time RVing, especially in part, because of people like yourself. You have shared your love of Nature, the pros and cons of traveling as a nomad and made me realize that I need to travel and see more of what I love. What it comes down to is having a healthy respect for coexisting with Nature's critters. So, Thank you, Slim!
Slim you cant have us waiting that long youre better than a sitcom lol. Beautiful video as usual. Love seeing the world through your lense. Love listening ro your perspectives. As ive statedto you before i hooe to live as free as you are someday. Jeep thwm coming. Just dont make us wait so long. We get worried about you lbs.
Great video for all camper/travelers to see. Yes, highways are always the most stressful part of my trips.
Being a long distance hiker for three decades...the only time i had trouble was during a morning walk in a large inner city park. The weather *hadn't* call for rain..i was soaked to the bone and my cell phone shorted out. I was on a paved trail that seemed to loop. I couldnt find a way out. Almost 2 hours later a cyclist found me and called 911. I was less than a km from my car and shivering uncontrollably in the middle of a city in the middle of summer. I' ve gone weeks in the backcountry without seeing roads..and was finally defeated by a bike trail that twins twice together, a lack of raingear, and wearing cotton fabric.
We always carry a pocket emergency blanket, just in case, because you just never know! Thanks for another great video!
"I have never been lost, but i was confused for three days"....Daniel Boone
Thank You for the recommendation of "The Lost Art of Reading Nature's Signs" I bought it and now half way though it. I love this book.
I LOVE your videos!. Its so great you circle back with your viewers on questions. All was good advice. I'm still going to check out the book too.
Great video Slim.
Usually, at least for me, people are the most unpredictable critters. But most of the time people give clues to their intentions and I can tell if I need to keep the interaction short.
Fortunately, I meet more good then bad😊
I lost my rental car at the NASCAR race track north of Las Vegas NV. Went to an airshow, had a great time, went back to where I thought I parked the car, and could not find it. All rental cars look alike! Walked in concentric circles for about 2 hours, clicking the key fob, which has a very short range, turns out. The next day I purposefully parked next to the bank of porta potties and no problem finding my rental car that day!
Sounds like me at a mall 😂 I hate malls and rarely visit them but when I do, I often spend an hour looking for my car .
@J Calhoun that's a great idea
If you have the typical cell phone, take a few pictures of your car in line with prominent landmarks, first toward your destination, then 180 degrees in the opposite direction. Notice the things that line up behind your landmarks as well and you’ve got plenty of reference. Also memorize the info and items in case your phone battery dies. (But always carry a small battery pack to major events as well.
How refreshing! First, your “KISS” approach to everything. Second, someone who understands depth of field. It is so NICE to watch a video w/out the pulsating-searching auto-focus. It amazes me how many photo/video YT gurus use auto focus for locked off talking head shots. Bravo Slim, bravo. Happy trails... from a long time subscriber.
I go solo hiking or travel and never have had any issues. Animals do not scare me but humans....I don't get lost as I have built in navigation. Others I am with have no sense of direction. You are correct. Great video!!!
Excellent video. Been camping in British Columbia for 30 years and never had a problem with wildlife or critters. Had more issues with other people and their animals. Spot on.
Impressed at the planning you must put into these videos, given the smooth segue from not only one scene to the next, but one season to another whilst maintaining one conversation thread.
Best advice on the little stinging critters is to always look where you are placing your hands and feet and your seat! Sitting on a yellowjacket would be way bad.
People will spend upwards of $4000 dollars a week for a relaxing vacation, for just a week. I have never seen any of those people as happy, or relaxed as you are in this video. And, you do it for months at a time on a much simpler budget. You have truly found, and embraced the key to happiness. Keep it up!
I always enjoy Mr Potatoehead's neighborhood
I am from South Arkansas and spent the majority of my time hunting in the bottom lands of various rivers. Many of those areas were "swampy" to say the least. When it comes to getting lost, I have to fall back on a quote attributed to Daniel Boone: ""I can't say I was ever lost, but I was once bewildered for about 3 days.”
Traveling reminds me of: "When longing is greater than fear, courage is born. Without longing, we do not set off." Rainer Maria Rilke, European poet. Greetings from Bavaria, Germany.
Nice. Would make a great inspirational poster! SP
OH ! I love this ! Thank you for posting this comment ! : ]
“The world is here for our journey so if we don’t explore it we are not making full use of our pass”… yes by me I engraved it and painted it on my camper
I can honestly say I've never been lost on one of my hiking adventures and yes there have been many over the years. Being an outdoorsman with a medical condition you carry supplies and pay attention to where you are in relation to base camp. The best advise I ever got from an old timer was to take a deck of cards along, if you find yourself lost relax and play a game of solitaire, wont take long before someone will be looking over your shoulder helping you with your next move. Thanks for sharing
Love the card trick. Good one! SP
Kronan
My scariest "lost" moments have been night fishing when a thick fog rolls in and you can't see any shore, nor sun, stars, or lights. I now try to carry a small gps about as big as your palm that will tell you how far and what direction to go to get back to your starting point. Cost about $60 and saves alot of anxious moments. Keep up the good work!
Interesting, I used to go duck hunting in the sounds of NC. Went with guides and fog would come in and no visibility. Even difficult to tell which direction voices were coming from. A bit unnerving.
No prancing. Pay attention. Be calm. Got it. Good video SP. Thanks
You conducted valuable research for this video. I really appreciate how you always get to the point and not talk senselessly as other RUclipsr's so often do. Thank you for your insight.
Excellent information, I appreciate that you are not alarmist, sensationalistic, or dramatic.
Excellent video! I recently purchased and activated a Garmin inReach satellite device that allows one to text and if necessary request help when without phone service. I almost always camp and hike alone so it’s just a bit of extra security in case of an accident....
I've been carrying a Garmin 62ST GPS with me when hiking/geocaching. Thanks to it, I make a specific point of hiking loops because I KNOW I can get back to the point where I started. YES, I also carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) which I'd activate ONLY IF I'm unable to return to the trailhead under my own power. ResQLink. Yes, I hike alone, however, I always tell friends generally where I'll be hiking B4 I start out. I've done a lot of loop hikes in the Superstition Mountains & thanks to my GPS I always KNOW where I am in relation to where I should be.
Yup ... I have a Garmin InReach too. It works great … when I remember to bring it with me. I use it more for lack of cell service rather than used for navigation.
@@ScubaSteveCanada I should have mention, I also carry an ACR ResQLink Personal Locator Beacon in case I'm unable to return to the trailhead under my own power.
Hey Slim, I’ve been a subscriber for awhile now just wanted to say how much I enjoy your channel. Definitely in the top 3 of favorites. My wife and I have been researching for a couple years getting ready to build a small all aluminum fifth wheel to pull with my 2017 Tacoma. Although we originally started with the idea of a converted bus but soon came to the realization that was just more the we want to go through. The actual living space could change again before we begin. We really like the a-liners we have been seeing. Definitely would need a good trailer as we intended to get off the beaten path. We will begin our adventure after our beloved senior dog has gone. It’s a lot of work caring for an old friend like him. We have no intention on bringing a pet on the road nor do we want to go this way again. Just glade you are on RUclips to help sort out the details. Thanks again.
Been camping and exploring the back country of Colorado for over 50 years and have never had a bad experience. Knowledge and common sense go a long way even if you factor in the art of humans screwing up sometimes, self included. Thanks for the good content Slim.
Hi Slim. Great info as always 👍. I would like to add that noise should accompany bear spray as a deterrent. My son who is an Environmental Ecologist and often works in remote areas of Alberta and now B.C. and has hiked the continental divide uses a commanding low voice every 3-5 minutes saying “hey ho” so that wildlife are alerted. You don’t want to surprise our furry friends! I must admit he has sent me pics of himself working as a scout with very large wild animals very near in the background. Yikes! 🙈
Spent many years as a young adult solo backpacking in Sierras and camping in Baja Mexico. Greatest danger I encountered were other people. Shot at three times (once intentionally, once by accident, once I didn't hang around to figure it out LOL). Twice I just walked up and made myself known and not prey. Getting lost - If you are going to come back the way you came from, stop and look back at the trail or route regularly then look around for landmarks along the way,. Often the trail looks so different heading back if you don't do this and you might think you are lost when you are not. Also, bring a small day pack with you with water and purifier, food, fire starter, compass, whistle, maybe sweater and topo map depending how long you may hike and type of terrain you are hiking in. Got completely lost for two and a half days in Lassen back country after crossing some snow and losing the trail but not a problem as I had emergency supplies and plenty of extra food on my back and a map. Was not too worried knowing that I had prepared for the chance of getting lost. After a few days the map helped me to find my way out. Got lost in the sierras on a solo day hike for a few hours after a heavy snow came in and buried the trail while I was hiking making nothing look familiar. Same thing, had what I needed for an emergency so didn't panic and using my head gradually found my way back way back out safely. Just use your head and don't fear everything. These are self confidence building experiences. Life is to be lived and not feared.
Lived in Arizona all my life (65+yrs) been stung many times by scorpions as has my wife and children. Put ice on it immediately if possible. Hurts like the dickens for some people but not so much for me. We live in the mountains now so don’t see them anymore. We love watching and listening to your videos. Been camping all my life and love the solitude.
Enjoyed the video and agree that common sense is top of list in avoiding scary experiences. Speaking of insects, this summer I made a screen for our Aframe door using a magic mesh magnetic screen door ($20 at Walmart). I rigged it to line the door and help fight off bugs by cutting back the sides of the mesh screen to fit the doorframe, and then resewed the outside seams back onto the mesh so it is reinforced all around the edges. I sewed the velcro onto the mesh on locations shown in directions.The mesh is attached by sticky-back velcro that is placed on the inside doorframe. Works great...the magnets close the screen automatically after you walk through the door in either direction. We only put it up when needed and it rolls into a small ball for storage. Having said all that, the last few years we've noticed there are fewer insects, which is not a good thing in the big picture!
Good practical advice. I’m currently boondocking in the Coconino National Forest and been here for the last 6 days. I haven’t seen another soul the entire time. Fresh bear droppings near my campsite yesterday morning but nothing to find here. Everything meticulously put away at night. I carry bear spray but have never had to use it. The most common question I get asked is “aren’t you scared.” Nope. Another caution, when camping in the desert, or anywhere, pull back your bedding and inspect it before crawling in. Little critters like to hide.
I'm happy to have just viewed this video & to have read all replies up to this point + I added a couple of comments.
I hike/geocache by myself & thanks to my Garmin GPS 62ST I always know where I am in relation to where I should be. I carry & use a Grayl Water Purifier most every time I'm out hiking which is at least once a week, year-round. And there is a BIG difference between a Water PURIFIER & a Water FILTER. I carry a 4" el cheapo Mora knife in a scabbard on the shoulder harness of my backpack; it is readily accessible & visible to others, just in case.
I believe I'm safer out hiking/geocaching by myself than walking down a city street at night. And I've hiked many loop hikes in the Superstition Mountains in Arizona, thanks to my GPS I've NOT gotten lost.
AZ: Yes, several microns difference between filter and purifier. Just adding that if one has a choice between a filter and a purifier go with the purifier. I also hike alone, have for years but always with compass and map. Does your GPS unit offer you a way to send a rescue signal if out of cell phone range or do you carry something else?
@@williambranham6249 My GPS has NO capability of SENDING a signal to a Satellite. It is strictly a "receiver". I don't carry a cell phone. I carry something better than a cell phone, a Personal Locator Beacon that will transmit my exact location to a satellite if I'm unable to return to the trailhead under my own power. ACR's ResQLink does only one thing; it transmits the STRONGEST 5 WATT signal to the satellite & that signal goes directly to Search & Rescue. The ResQLink is the one the Coast Guard puts in their lifeboats; that should tell you something.
PLZZZ, plzzzz, don't buy a SPOT Personal Locator for numerous reasons, the primary reason being it transmits a weak .4 Watt signal, that is 4/10 of one watt & won't even penetrate an overhead tree canopy.
@@azclaimjumper Thanks for the wonderful info. One other question if you don't mind. I think your comments are helpful for all readers. I mainly hike on the east coast -the Appalachians. Is the ACR ResQLink able to pick up a satellite even in very mountainous areas when very little sky is present. I'm referring to being stranded and mobility is a problem.
@@williambranham6249 That is the very situation that ResQLink SHINES, thanks to its powerful 5 WATT signal which will penetrate tree canopy & clouds. If you are deep in a slot canyon, a satellite will need to be directly overhead to receive the signal which the ResQLink will send continuously for 24 hours, a signal that includes the co ords of where you are stranded. Do yourself a favor; enter this search term, "ResQLink vs SPOT". Also, go to ACR's website. Look along the top for "SURVIVOR CLUB". There you will read life threatening situations that were saved thanks to an ACR product. ACR will refurbish your unit & replace the batteries which are NOT user- replaceable IF you've filed a police report of the incident & gone to the Survivor CLUB & written up your story. When you're in a life-threatening situation the ONLY PLB you want, THE ONE YOU CAN COUNT ON, is ResQLink.
@@azclaimjumper Thanks
I’m seriously directionally challenged I would get lost in the woods. Glad you’re back this week! We missed you
I love that feeling of security.. Glad you have that.thanks for the information. Life straw is a good option. People disappearing in national parks is under reported.. read David Paladies book on strange disappearances in parks. He was a police officer that wrote a book on the topic after much research and interviewing families.
Just a note about tics. Just check yourself everyday quickly if you hike or whatever. I got a tic on my thigh in Scotland when I was wearing trousers thick socks etc
Good information. When in Alaska we were told by a ranger that more deaths were caused by moose than bears.
Neither kills very many humans, like less than a handful if any.
We've been following you for over a year and anticipate over time for the next adventure. Speaking about your last video on water, animals and getting lost. I'm surprised on how many people would even ask those questions. You must have a lot from the cities that dont get out into nature much. Only thing we need to fear is ourselves.
I thought you where a fearless outdoorsman... thumbs up stay awesome.
Loved this very informative video laced with lots of good Slim humor. There are lots of cues in the woods. Like moss growing on the trees. My friend takes a bright red piece of chalk and makes an "x" on the opposite side of the trees on the right side as he hikes in the woods, just about every 4-6 ft. He's never been lost. Great video Slim👍 Thanks for sharing.
Good idea, I think.
Great info Slim thanks for sharing. Always a pleasure watching your vids. Cheers!!!
In addition to bear spray, I carry a mini-marine air horn. I've used it a number of times on aggressive dogs and once to scare off a mom and her bear cubs that were raiding the campsite next to me. Available on Amazon or most sporting goods stores for less than $10.
Yup... I have one of those ... since a bear discovered my hot tub.
+1 also can help you be found if lost
Slim, you are so correct. Oregon has some of the worst road signs, 5 north and south from 84 area is a mess.
Great informational video, SP. I do get bothered by other people’s irrational fears. You handled this well. I’m trying to think of what I worry about when traveling or hanging out in woods, etc. I realize I am at times influenced by others ... so thanks again. I grew up in Northern MN crawling through woods picking berries or playing with family and neighbor kids and never got lost. None of us were mauled or eaten by wild animals. BUT, my brother was bitten badly by a pet dog! So there we go!
You were very polite. Good video for the nervous Nancy’s? Good tips for everyone to remember.
Really great job on your video Slim. I can tell that a lot of hard work went into making it!
One of the most sensible videos I've seen in a while. Stay thirsty my friend.
Hello slim!
It's always nice to see you! I really enjoy your video! Informative and funny! A breath of fresh air thank you for sharing!
Thanks Slim, you and Lil' Abner take care now.
Excellent video. Be aware of where you are, how you got there, and generally, which direction to get back safely.
That was the funniest video so far, that I've seen of yours! Really enjoyed it. You sound so much like us.
Good stuff.. A robin redbreast nearly ate out of my hand today my heart was pounding, I think that spooked him-her, will try again tomorrow.., the small things in life are very special also xx
Slim, we have to get you a TV show on a network. You are great to listen to and the world should know it!
Howdy Claimjumper, good suggestions. I also wanted to mention that a good knife & some paracord are good to have also.
Companion: What if we meet a mountain lion?
Me: Run
Companion: Do you think you can run faster than a mountain lion?
Me: No, but I know I can run faster than you.
Great video :)
lol
General rule for the big cats is "if you see the cat, it's not hungry".
Don't let small children or pets stray too far from the party. And always put an adult at the end of the party to run Tail-end Charlie, cats will attack from behind.
Out here on Vancouver Island, the only animals not affected by island dwarfism are the cougars...
@@pistolleer My house cat always attacks my behind.
I solo backpack, bike pack & kayak pack often for the past 5 years, and at first you do have some anxieties but they soon fade and you find yourself the most at ease in the wild. I am more cautious of other humans I may encounter, which are few.
Great common sense video Slim. Thanks for taking the time to make it. Here in Michigan we had Eastern Equine Encephalitis which mosquitoes are carriers this summer in the southern part of the state. Where half dozen people died, also handful of horses. If you get it 1 out of 3 die. Also nerve and muscle activity damage to the ones who make it though it. Bug spray always!
I would like to see a handful of horses. Ha!
William Branham ya I didn’t know for certain how many horses 🐎. 3 or 4 maybe? Glad you saw some humor in that as “handful of horses”!
🐎🐎🐎🐎
Great advice Slim.
Landmarks are good to remember.
I know what direction I’m going at most times.
My dad always told me if I got lost to follow a water downstream and it will come out in populated area eventually.
I’ve watched some of David Paulides talks and they can be very cautioning.
Definitely get your head knowledge and maybe go on some guided hikes too.
Slim Potatohead, what a name. Nice post! All the critter out in nature can be dangerous--be careful out there. Happy Trails, mapaketl
I agree that "people" and "people's pet dogs" are my biggest concerns when outside the city.
Greater fear in the city or camping near a city.
Slim you’ve done it again. Great video. In Australia we have some of the most deadly animals on earth. I have been camping all my life almost 50 years and have never really been worried about all them. Thanks again HAPPY CAMPING.
Slim. Love the comment... "Concerns, from people"... love it.
AGREED many dogs are REAL issues, and danger, in town also.. generally, owners fault.
I had a friend jumped by a "pack of wild domestic" dogs, in a national park..
They were real lucky but feared for their life's.
15:15--Downtown Portland. Getting on I-5 north from I-405 south. My neck of the woods. :)
For those who venture out into the wilderness, I highly recommend each carry a PLB (personal locator beacon). They can be purchased on Amazon or at sporting goods retailers such as Bass Pro, Gander Mountain etc. The PLB is a radio device when activated will send a signal to a satellite which will alert local authorities there is an emergency at your location using GPS locators.
If you hike much, you will get lost sometimes.
It’s much easier not to panic if you are prepared with a rain jacket, extra warm layer, some energy bars, a way to get clean water, and hopefully a way to get unlost, like a GPS and backup map and compass. It also helps to know how to use them.
Thanks for the info Slim! Missed you last week!
Slim..broken camera lens from snowball..great information.
Safe travels
Great video and message/tips. Still safe at here. Can’t wait until the next video
Good one, Slim. Well done. Rather than citing the old and familiar "Lions and tigers and bears, oh my" (from The Wizard of Oz movie) you've pointed your viewers in a more appropriate direction. These days it pays to be wary of Skeeters and People and Pets.
Loved seeing the terminus of I-84 at I-5. There are a lot of lost people in the Portland area, many homeless, and camping anywhere near some of them is dangerous. Lots of America's addicts and mentally unstable are homeless. It's a sad situation.
It's the unbehaved dogs is my biggest problem. And the 2nd is people.
Hey Slim, nice to see you back. Longer hair suits you!
26 years as a road gypsy and the one thing that kills the most people in america other than disease is auto fatalities. Texas alone kills 3000 people annually and has been doing that since 1993 when I began my life as a long haul trucker. At no time have I ever been harassed by wild life when I sleep in areas where predators reside. As far as water and supplies, there is a unique economy to this life and you eventually learn just how far you can stretch a 20oz bottle of water.
This life may frighten many who have lived hugely sheltered lives but if you pay attention, keep your head and respect the road and nature you will be fine.
I’m currently in my big rig in California. This past month I’ve been from Utah to Miami to Texas to Nevada to Arizona to California. Next load brings me back to Utah.
My truck is my home. My apartment is only a requirement by state and federal law. My Rockwood A212hw is my utopia.
Both Slim and I have something very much in common in that we both have lived this life for years-decades and we are both happy and healthy so we must be doing something right.
Another great, sensible, and fun to watch video Slim, thank you!
There have been times when I've been out in nature along and a magical moment happens when a great appreciation of the enormous mystery and awesomeness of nature floods through me. I feel humbled and fragile and very much one with nature. I also know that my death would/will be just be another part of nature. That too can be scary.
The animal I worry about most when I'm out camping is Mice. I've had mice build a nest on my cars engine while camped for a couple days. This can lead to a fire if they built on or near the exhaust manifold. I always have a look under the hood before I drive off. If you leave your coffee cup outside, make sure you turn it upside down unless you like "chocolate sprinkles" in your next cup of joe.
John, I have watched several videos lately about this subject. I've had one experience while leaving a car at a trail head in the winter. 2 weeks later opened the trunk and mice had chewed sweaters, chewed every food bag or food container their teeth would let them. What a mess!
@@williambranham6249 I always carry the 10 essentials, plus 2. 11 being toilet paper and 12 being a mouse trap.
@@oysterfleet5669 I thru hiked the AT many years ago. I made my list of essentails: which was more than 10 and before electronic devices. These lists are interesting in that often it reflects the fears of the person making the list. For example I never carried a knife but many do. I think Duct tape and paracord, if not both, then certainly paracord can solve lots of problems.
@@williambranham6249 I used to carry a Swiss Army knife until Leatherman came along. I like Gaffers tape better than Duct Tape, but they're in the same league. Paracord is a wonder. The inner strands can be used for a number of things. Making due with what you have when something breaks and figuring out how to fix it is part of the experience. As I get older I take notes and work on improving things when I get back to "civilization".
@@oysterfleet5669 I used to be a gearhead as some say. Colin Fletcher is my hero. His series of books "The Complete Walker" are invaluable. Copies can be picked up very cheap now.
1. You seem like a great guy to hike and camp with. I love and respect all animals but am the one who wants to be as close as possible to observe the bears, deer, etc. I love to get lost in any journey. It makes life so much more fun to enjoy. Love to hold the snakes but well not into rattlers of course. lol. You are so right about the freeways. Too funny. I think it would be great to go camping or hiking with you sometime. I'm working on leaving the northeast by at least next year sometime but might be able to visit Arizona in January for a day or two or go to the RTR to meet some people who travel together that I've seen on RUclips for a while now.
2. My main concern after reading the list of stuff you use is to change your battery system to only include one type of battery.
3. My grandmother put it one way = "If you don't like the bugs don't feed them." That really goes for any creature you don't want to attract. Nothing it totally foolproof but the more you study what nature needs to survive, the more you know what they are really looking for. Also, spiders love bugs so if you attract bugs, then you will attract the spiders who will be camping out to catch those bugs for their meals.
There are more dangers of death in the house full of abusive neglectful people who trash up the house I live in right now than the woods any day. I'm getting ready to put on my mask so that I don't get sick again with more asthma and allergy problems.
Hi there! I enjoyed camping, jungle trekking and hiking in my teenage years. But as I got older and older, I grew increasingly afraid of doing so for fear of wildlife. I kinda developed phobias with most wildlife especially snakes of all sizes as well as other crawling creatures, leeches, bears, tigers, etc. In the back of my mind, I perceive that staying outdoors, for example, camping in an open space would be unsafe even if there's little or no real danger present. That's pretty sad. I wish I could just carry out outdoor activities again because nature is so beautiful.
Good effort there Slim!
My two bits worth : Mountain streams are generally pretty clean . While traveling up the BC coast we used the streams that came down the sea and were easy to get at by the boat . I seem to recall my Dad would put about a cup of bleach to 25 Gallons?
spot on about the dogs and getting lost...
25 gallons would need perhaps 1-2 Tbsp.s bleach to sanitize, if I remember my studies.
@@captlynhall to be honest this was sometime ago!
Another great video Slim, thoroughly enjoying your continuing adventures! Safe travels - Warren and Colleen, Queensland, Australia.
Yep... we had a couple of bear fatalities in Alaska and as Slim mentions the couple were outside the the Anchorage area in small parks (not really national parks) where people were jogging or some went off the trails. I see/hear more bear sightings in Anchorage than I do out in the valley areas.
I learned the most about 'walk about" in the wilderness... from a copy of the Boy Scouts Handbook when I was younger. It has a lot of super useful info for camping and address all aspects of getting along and survival in the "wild" . I don't know if it still exists, but if you find a copy, buy it.
You hit a few nails on the head. But what has given me more trouble in my years of camping? Adverse weather conditions!
Great video Slim and some wise advice.
Hi,
Looks like you and me have spent an equal amount of time on trails, nearly 60 years for me.
All good, common sense advise. Basic knowledge goes a long way to enjoy the outdoors.
Enjoyed watching.
Thanks
I look forward to seeing your videos. It must be nice to travel
Great information! I liked the ending!
Good video slim, missed seeing them. Loved the end with snowball. Be safe!
Life straws in MHO are not worth the money you spend on them. You need a filter system that allows you to fill a container. The straw is basically for a quick stop and only provides a means to address your thirst right then. If you're thirsty 15-mins later and have moved away from your water source, you are out of luck. Take the money and buy a small Sawyer filter - the type that screws onto a basic plastic bottle. I've traveled all over the world and I either have my Sawyer or my GRAYL with the orange filter.
Navigation - I always carry a small GPS and the first thing I do when camping, is mark my camp site. A good friend uses an old IPhone. What he does is download off-line maps of the area he plans to camp in. Then, once settled he'll turn the phone on and open whatever map program he is going to use. The satellite link works regardless of whether the phone has an active subscription to a network provider. What the iphone basically becomes is a GPS unit. He can then easily navigate with his phone and maps and not worry about having to connect to a cellular network. In disbelief, I tried this on a recent trip and sure enough it worked. You just need to make time to down load the maps for off-line usage. If you're not into electronics, a good paper map is always good.
I carry & use the Grayl Water Purifier on nearly every hike & I hike at least once a week, throughout the year. I agree with you about the Life Straw; there are much better alternatives.
Chaos. How do you download maps if you don't have a subscription? Just curious. Also a good paper map ,in my opinion, is essential regardless of the electronics.
@@azclaimjumper I'm a HUGE fan of the Grayl Water Purifier and carry one whenever I travel overseas.
@@williambranham6249 I have my old IPHONE connected via wifi for map downloads. I normally try to download everything from home or my second best place is a good coffee shop.
In the (over) seven decades of my life, there have been innumerable times when I didn't know exactly where I was, but I've never felt that I was lost, even in the wilderness.