Essential Gear Tips For Older Backpackers

Подписаться 9 тыс.

Просмотров 70 тыс.

50% 1

Gear Tips for Older Hikers
In this video, I review six gear items for older backpackers or hikers that will serve you well whether you hike the Pacific Crest Trail, the Appalachian Trail, the Continental Divide Trail or any other thru-hike.
Please feel free to add constructive comments. I admit I don’t know all the answers and have blind spots. Feel free to enlighten me. We may disagree, but I’m not afraid of robust conversations.
#backpacking gear, #backpacking, #olderhikers, #pacificcresttrail, #continentaldividetrail, #appalachiantrail
Here are my documentaries about our journey on the Pacific Crest Trail:
A Pacific Crest Trail Coddiwomple: • A Pacific Crest Trail ...
Coddiwomple II: A Pacific Crest Trail Documentary: • Coddiwomple II: A Paci...
Resources
To access a copy of my resupply guide, click on the following link: indd.adobe.com/view/5c188b77-...
If you want to support this channel, please subscribe, hit notifications, watch other videos and comment. I strive to respond to all comments. You could also follow AKWild1 on Facebook. Also, I have links to outdoor products that have served me well. I promise I do not accept anything free from gear companies, nor am I sponsored in any way by a company. My opinions about gear and equipment are my own based on my experiences in the field. I want to remain impartial and maintain my integrity, which is critical to who I am. My recommendations are based on my experiences. There are Amazon Affiliate links in the video description. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Here are some products mentioned in this video and links:
Here are some products I recommend:
Black Diamond Trail Trek Poles
amzn.to/43wKeBp
Curex Insoles
amzn.to/49lx4JW
Dude Wipes
amzn.to/488SaKm
Closed Cell Backpacking Pad
amzn.to/3OyJ4jr
Garmin Instinct Solar
amzn.to/3UvqM6d
Injinji Trail Socks
amzn.to/4buckRW
I also recommend Darn Tough socks for hiking because the company guarantees their products for life. I have returned socks that have been torn or ripped, and the company sent me credit for new socks. Here is a link that will give you and me a discount if you purchase a pair of Darn Tough socks. darntough.refr.cc/raymondvoley

Опубликовано:

24 июн 2024

Ссылка:

Скачать:

Готовим ссылку...

Добавить в:

Мой плейлист

Посмотреть позже

Комментарии : 272

@WyomingMtnMan 2 месяца назад

I'm glad you started with trekking poles because poles were the biggest improvement in comfort and safety of any backpacking gear I've added. My knees would always get sore, but since I started using pokes, they never get sore. They also help maintain balance and have saved me from falling many times. I'm 69, and this is my 55th year backpacking.

@akwild1 2 месяца назад

Thank you, yes, trekking poles have also saved me from a fall or two. 69 and still backpacking. That gives many of us something to which to aspire. All the best, and continued Happy Trails.

@dianeschmiane 3 месяца назад

Whoa, except for the dude wipes and the watch, I carry everything else on that list. My one extra luxury is a blowup pillow... heaven!

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Yes, I love my trekology pillow. It used to be orange, but it's mostly earth-tones right now for 2600 PCT miles, but it's never sprung a leak.

@thebeardedprepper 4 месяца назад

A lot of people give me grief for this, but I always take a few pairs of toe warmers. They have saved my bacon more than once on a wet cold night. Stick them under your air pad to warm the air inside. It’s like having an electric blanket in the woods!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

I wear toe warmers quite a bit during my Alaska winter hikers. I also have rechargeable heated foot soles. I need them because I did get a little frost nip on my toes, and they're still sensitive to the cold. I hear you, and I would never send grief your way. Keep on trekking!

@susankaempfer8427 4 месяца назад

About your wipes; I use hypoallergenic baby wipes with no scent and DRY THEM OUT before the hike. Them wet them slightly with the available water for a wipe-down every night before putting my sleep clothes on.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you. I'm sure there are other folks reading these comments who will also be glad to hear your advice. Thank you for sharing.

@randywarnock2937 4 месяца назад

I am 71 and started backpacking when man first walked on the moon when I was 16. My wife and I still backpack but not as far. I was published by BACKPACKER Magazine in March 1980 about a snow trip to Mt. St. Helens and Spirit Lake. Two months later it was a major eruption and everything changed!!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Wow, that's quite a story. Imagine if you had delayed your trip to Mt. St. Helens. I ran into a backpacker in his 70s along the PCT this summer. His trail name was Way Back, because as he said, he goes way back. Still makes me laugh. I think your experience show that backpacking can be a life-long pursuit. Also, once you have your gear, it can be relatively inexpensive to continue. Thank you for your comment, and Happy Trails!

@bobsiddoway 3 месяца назад

Great list! Used to think trekking poles were silly, now love them!

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Glad you like them! I used to feel the same way, now they're pretty indispensable. I also need them for my tent.

@mikeroy6713 4 месяца назад

I think all of those items would apply to young and older hikers alike. Maybe I’m early in the comments but I’ll be the first to mention a pee bottle. Absolute game changer on those cold nights!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Yes, we had one other older hiker who mentioned the pee bottle. Thank you for the tip. Happy Trails.

@pmm1044 2 месяца назад

Yes…a Nalgene 32 fl Oz wide mouth collapsable canteen is part of my backpacking kit!

@mikeroy6713 2 месяца назад

The canteen-yes!

@LionessHiker 4 месяца назад

The Flextail Tiny Pump to inflate/ deflate your sleeping pad is a luxury item I won’t go without!

@ironpig701 4 месяца назад

I second this gear choice. Thought it was a "gimmick" item but man after all day on trail the last thing I wanna do is blow up my pad.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Sounds good. I wish I could find a place that would ship it to Alaska. They wouldn't ship because of the battery. Thanks for watching.

@jeffg3895 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 I’ll ship one to you. For real.

@AWalkOnDirt 4 месяца назад

It's battery powered? I was looking at a pump but didn't want to carry batteries since everything I down has an internal rechargeable batteries.

@DumpTrump4TRE45ON 4 месяца назад

I bought quite a few for my friends this past Christmas. Its something you did not know you needed till you tried it.

@DonP_is_lostagain 4 месяца назад

As a 68 yo hiker/backpacker, I can't gainsay any of these tips. Especially the hiking poles. One thing I do carry that I found purely by accident on Ebay. It's a roll up/fold up water basin that has a blowup rim. You can shape it into either a square, or close to round. It weighs about 2 ounces and is big enough for both my size 10 feet to fit into. There's absolutely nothing like dipping your feet into a hot water "bath" at the end of the day. I also use it for general cleanup of any cookware. Mostly though, I use it for my feet. Just heat up some water, set up the basin, pour the water in, and luxuriate in a warm foot bath. Of course, before you do that you can use it to wash of your face, or hands. I also take a GigaPump 4 air inflator with me as well. Normally I use a hammock, but when I have to use a tent, it's great for inflating my sleeping pad, AND it's also a small lantern I can use to light up the tent.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Excellent ideas. I haven't heard of the GigaPump. I'll be talking about a new, very ultralight pump on the market in the next episode. I've ordered it, so I don't have it, but the reviews seem positive. It's very light and compact. If it lives up to expectations, I will probably start carrying it. I also agree, nothing quite like dipping your feet into water at the end of the day. I love cleaning all the stickiness off my body, which makes it so I can sleep better. Happy Trails.

@steveleonard5206 3 месяца назад

Good ideas. My wife & I are in our 70’s and due to health & back issues we are restricted to much shorter day hikes for some time. Our favorite recent purchase are a couple folding pads that we can sit on when we stop for a snack break or just to admire another North Atlantic view in Newfoundland.

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Thank you for following my channel from Newfoundland. Still hiking in your 70s. That's a beautiful thing. All the best from Alaska.

@maureenobryan6141 4 месяца назад

I found another alternative to Dude Wipes and that is "Attends wipes" 8" size (an item my 97 year old father uses). Super inexpensive and you can get the unscented ones. My luxury must have item is my REI 1 lb. chair, minus the carry bag. Fits right in the outside pocket of my pack and I cannot tell you how often I pull it out and use it on every break and at camp at night. Makes a world of difference for us older folks! Great tips, as usual! Thanks again for sharing!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks Maureen. The chair idea looks tempting. My problem is once I reduce weight in one area, I add camera gear to make up for the deficit.

@gordond8 4 месяца назад

After a day of Hydrating, I spend all night un-hydrating. For this older Hiker, a Kleen Canteen or any wide mouth foldable water bottle, is a must. For the bladder challenged, getting out of my tent many times into the cold wet night cuts too much into my much needed beauty sleep.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Love your sense of humor! The best way to confront old age is to beat it into a corner, and laugh at it. Well done!

@judithmacdonald363 4 месяца назад

For us women I suggest u get a Freshette at REI, a hygiene rigid funnel so u can pee inside the tent.

@LaoSoftware 4 месяца назад

I want my youth back. I don't like old age.

@thenomadicjames3086 4 месяца назад

A pocket hammock was a game changer for me. It makes the ultimate trail nap or camp seat.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

I imagine it's also great way to stay above the ants during siestas. Thanks for sharing.

@UncleGeorgeTV 4 месяца назад

I like the Space blanket emergency tarps I've used them when I found my sleeping bag wasn't warm enough, I have put them over my tent when there was no shade in order to reflect the excess s heat, I have used them as a wind breakIn order to stay warm near the fireI've tossed them up as a temporary shelter when caught in a hailstormA little excess weight but comes in so valuableA little excess weight but comes in so valuable

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you. I've seen a variety of space blankets. I'm wondering how much the one your prefer weighs. Thanks for the description of all the uses it has for you.

@UncleGeorgeTV 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 I think that they are about 17 or18 oz

@tomsitzman3952 4 месяца назад

All good advice. I'm old school and still believe that sturdy footwear is more important than the lightest footwear. Years of backpacking ski touring, lugging canoes and kayaks have left me at 82 with only bike touring. Same basic trail gear minus the compression on my spinal collum. No more 90 day trips. Just shorter trips at half speed, making me a Half A Fast tourer. When I'm gone all of me left behind will be my ashes in a Ball Jar and a 5 gallon bucket of used titanium parts. If it were not for the replacement parts all I would have left of an active lifestyle would be memories. As for socks I have found Alpaca socks. they are the bomb. I still like my 45 year old Thermolite inflatable with foam core but now sometimes carry the new folding waffle pads they make a great sitz pad on the trail, and on that night when you need a wee bit more comfort under you,. Folding the mat in half sure helps. One suggestion I have is to carry a spray bottom. They come in one cup size to one liter. With extreme heat getting more extreme a spray bottle can keep you cool, Just a squirt across the face and neck cools through evaporation. In a dry camp they allow for a refreshing PTA shower before getting into your Sleep System.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

I like old school, and I'm thinking about wearing my Merrill Moabs on the Colorado Trail this summer instead of my trail runners. Last year I got Plantar Fasciitis, and I just suffered through it. That's why I'm coming around to your way of thinking. Thanks for the spray bottle tip. Our hike through Oregon last year was intensely hot, and I never passed by a creek or lake without cooling off.

@sheilahenry7279 4 месяца назад

I can’t believe at your age you are able to still sleep on the ground. Great! I’m in my 60’s & had to switch to hammock camping. No more crawling up from a ground pad

@Andy-Mesa 4 месяца назад

Grandma Gatewood was hiking in Keds in the 50s. If you don't know who she is, look her up.

@Andy-Mesa 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 Plantar fasciitis is neither caused, nor prevented, by footwear.

@KevinRStrauss 4 месяца назад

I now swear by the portable bidet and that's for any age. As a 54-year old, I think my REI Flexlite Chair will be in my kit even when I go fastpacking. I still like to sit around at camp. Finally, I always carry a Nalgene bottle and cork ball for rolling my muscles morning and night. It's how I remain injury-free. ☮️❤️🤝

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks for your comment. Lots of folks who watched this episode talked about a chair being one of their favorite pieces of gear. I'll check out the REI Flexlite Chair. I think I could have used the cork ball last year on the PCT for my arches. Thanks for watching, and your insights.

@KevinRStrauss 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1, happy to engage and watch more of your videos. You may enjoy my recent videos (channel just starting) about rolling to prevent injury and Trail Magic.

@johnmca5643 4 месяца назад

Chair...chair...chair...chair...chair. Did I mention bringing a chair? You can get a 16 ounce chair now that makes a world of difference.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Lots of chair advocates commenting. I sense a trend. Thank you watching and commenting.

@DrofJustice 3 месяца назад

My favorite is my hammock sleep system. I only tent if necessary because I sleep so well in a hammock. Never hit the trail without trekking poles and a chair, Injinji socks, and shoes that make my feet happy.❤

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

I think that sums it all up. Roughing it easy. One day I'll consider a chair; it's just that I like to carry too much camera gear, so I have to cut weight somewhere. Happy Trails!

@jeffg3895 4 месяца назад

I take a chair! It’s worth the extra one pound in my opinion!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

What kind of chair, and how much does it weigh?

@jeffg3895 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 I have the REI Flexlite Air Chair. It weighs one pound and I take in on every single hike I go on! So much better than sitting on the dirt/snow! I’m even going to start with it on the PCT this year. Time will tell if I ditch it, or decide it’s worth the weight. A thru hike is a different beast compared to a weekend backpacking trip.

@sk-wx1cf 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 Rei Flexlite or Helinox Zero

@pedroclaro7822 4 месяца назад

I take a stool instead because my chair (cheap) weighs 1kg meaning 2lbs. Sitting on the floor is miserable. Closed cell foam pad is okay since I can sleep and sit on it, at least get off the ground, but still any kind of raised surface to sit on is great.

@susanp.collins7834 4 месяца назад

I have a foldable 3-legged stool with a shoulder strap and a clip. It goes over my shoulder and then clips to my camera harness. I can carry it for hours and not know it's there. When I want to sit, it's there.

@sylvan47070 4 месяца назад

A chair with a back is a must have.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you. Awesome idea.

@BrianGay57 4 месяца назад

New sub here. One tip for preventing blisters is vaseline or even chapstick. The lubrication prevents blisters. I learned this trick from a park ranger. It works better than moleskin.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks for the sub. Great tip. Some folks carry a product called Body Glide, which most use to prevent chaffing. Last year in Oregon I had chaffing problems for the first time on the PCT. I used chapstick like you suggest and it worked. Thanks for commenting.

@RoadrunnersOfCA 2 месяца назад

Chapstick is new for me! Thanks for this awesome tip!

@BrianGay57 2 месяца назад

@@RoadrunnersOfCA Always glad to share.

@ericb.4358 4 месяца назад

Hell yes! lighter gear us the answer. Thanks for the tips. MY GEAR: TENT-> Tarptent NOTCH Li (Dyneema fabric) PACK-> Osprey EXOS 58 (Almost the lightest but surely the most comfortable) SLEEP SYSTEM-> REI Flash3 season insulated air mattress. Western Mountaineering Megalite overstuffed to 20 F. down bag. OOK KIT-> dTrail Designs Sidewinder titanium Caldera Cone (With the inverted cone INFERNO insert it burns wood as a high efficiency "gassifier" stove, otherwise I use ESBIT tabs with a BEGET tab holder, but alcohol is good too.Winter is a white gas version of an MSR Whisperlite universal. SHOES-> Merrill MOAB low shoes or MOAB high cut waterproof for winter or rain. SIT PAD-> from REI (can be put in 1/2) I'm 80 and still love backpacking. Here in Nevada altitudes are high so I take one L-Arginine tablet/capsule 45 minutes after breakfast and one 45 minutes after lunch. opens capillaries for much better O2 uptake.and better lactic acid flushing from muscles. 👍TIP: the Chinese made Fire Maple BLADE 2 canister stove (not the plain BLADE) is great for all weather down to 10 F. because its very light, well made and the canister can be inverted in cold weather due to the vaporization tube arcing next to the burner. (The plain BLADE does not have this necessary tube.) This stove has a lightweight braided steel fuel tube so the titanium burner sits on the ground (or rock or table etc.) for good stability. Fuel control handle is on the canister, safely AWAY from the stove.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

80 and still backpacking! I can only dream. I hope others can also learn something from your gear advice. I'm thinking of switching back to my Merrell Moabs for my next long distance hike. Thank you.

@henrybowden9907 4 месяца назад

Hi, this the first time I've seen your channel but I've hit the subscribe button. Anyway, one item I take which I believe is absolutely vital is a pee bottle. It takes up a lot of space in my rucksack but it enables me to empty my bladder twice during the night without getting out of the tent. As I am 67 years old, I need to pee at least once each night and, if I've had rather a lot of fluids to drink (more than perhaps I should) and it's cold and/or raining it's a very necessary piece of kit. I also take a "chair" without legs - this means I can fit in my trekking pole tent without having to bend in the middle!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Still backpacking at 67 warrants certain rights -- the pee bottle being one of them. Thanks for your tip, and the details on how to get it done. Happy Trails.

@jimbrown8313 4 месяца назад

I do that too but use a collapsible bottle.

@godofthunder808 4 месяца назад

I wake up more than once at night so I brought a pee bottle to camp because the restroom was far enough away & nobody could guess that it was pee because my bottle was tinted.

@ronaldrose7593 4 месяца назад

Hello 👋 my outdoors friend, thank you for sharing this informative video. All the best to you. Stay safe out there. 😊

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you. My pleasure. I appreciate your kind words.

@richardsteinbergmakingknives 4 месяца назад

Great video, thanks for the info!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks for your kind words, and for watching. I appreciate it.

@richardsteinbergmakingknives 4 месяца назад

Thank you for vlogging about hikers with a little more trail under their boots. @@akwild1

@bigriver47 4 месяца назад

Personal items I have dentures so I carry denture cleaning Tabs in a small screw cap jar just big enough for my teeth ,tab and a few once’s of water. I carry a bidet, but sometimes TP is just more convenient, I use a flextail to inflate my pad, instead of a foam sleeping pad I carry 1/8” foam pad from GGG. I have a pair of light gloves I wear at night to keep my Hans warm when they get out of my quilt. Finally I take my little contour blood sugar tester as I have type 2 diabetes. I recommend trekking poles and keeping your gear as light as possible.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you for your ideas. I wanted to try a flextail pump, but I couldn't find a place that would ship to Alaska because of the battery. I'm intrigued by the bidet, it's just really hard to break old habits. Happy Trails.

@boomersoutdoors8898 4 месяца назад

Great video! Great advice!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for watching and the positive comment. Happy Trails.

@lanecountybigfooters5716 4 месяца назад

Great choices! As I get older, balance becomes more of an issue and at least one hiking pole always comes with me. I also carry an ultralight chair for overnight trips - I just cannot sit on the ground any more for any length of time. Great list. Subbed.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks for the Sub. What chair do you use, and how much does it weigh. I would have loved a chair several times to stay out of the ants.

@mhaney1111 4 месяца назад

I have tried many. My favorite is the Helinox Ground Chair. It is also one of the lightest.

@BanjaraHillbillies 4 месяца назад

Helinox Zero camp chair. Don't be surprised if you come back from peeing away from camp and find one of your buddies sitting in YOUR chair. I won't backpack without mine.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you. The Helinox has quite a few supporters and defenders.

@olegoathiking1962 4 месяца назад

Trekking poles, Dude wipes, and closed cell foam pad are part of this 62-year-olds backpacking gear list.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Amen. Mine too even as I'm within striking distance of 64.

@bettybrigance6784 4 месяца назад

Thanks...stay safe, enjoy life

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you, I will. Happy Trails.

@jK-yj2tl 4 месяца назад

I agree on all your items except the watch as I have no experience w/it. Seems like it might be something to consider though. When I hiked the AT I brought along a ultra-lite umbrella which I sprayed with permethrin (which kept bugs away from me night and day)...I always slept with it covering my head ...used it on MANY rainy days. It was a game changer and well worth the 6oz. Great video and thank you.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks for the umbrella suggestion. I imagine some Oregon PCT hikers in July would be interested in your tip. Thank you.

@danielmahoney3429 2 месяца назад

Great idea with the permethrin on the umbrella!

@ytsrjbrown 4 месяца назад

I agree with all the other comments chair was a game changer for me. I also always take a Kelly kettle I canoe back country camp so weight is not so important and I love being able to take less fuel and boil water with almost anything

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks for watching and your comment. The Kelly Kettle looks like quite the stove. I raft a lot, so I might try the stove on my rafting adventures. You got me thinking.

@Richard-bs8xe 3 месяца назад

Thanks for the useful information!

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching.

@robingreen2372 3 месяца назад

This one is for the ladies. I take Lancome City Block Sheer tinted moisturizer. It's SPF 25 and comes in a small tube.

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Thank you.

@rw7594 4 месяца назад

I started hiking in my 30's. Always used trekking poles. I've had a pair of Gabels since 2009. I still use them as they are in great shape. It pays to always clean and properly store gear. They are also part of the emergency 10x10 tarp tent setup plan. You're dead on about as we age, like it or not, we need to adapt to our aging bodies and the right gear helps. Even though I'm in decent shape, the warranty period is up. 🤣 I'll be 50 this year. I've never been able to escape being a weekend warrior due to work which kills long thru hikes. I still hike and hunt while carrying a pack. Usually 25 lbs as I'm prepared to be stuck outdoors in grizzly country should a road become impassable or I can't get back to the truck.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

50 is so young. Are you sure you don't have time left on your extended warranty? Yes, Grizzly country requires a whole new perspective, a whole new set of practices. Glad you're still in the game, and I wish you many years ahead on the trail. All the best.

@rw7594 4 месяца назад

@akwild1 I'm still in decent shape. Just not like when I was a 20 yo infantryman. 🙃

@honeybadgerhikes 4 месяца назад

Reflectex-Ibcut a piece to my body shape and use it inside my bag on top of my body to add extra warmth. Also use it as a tent mat/wind screen/sit pad/etc. lighter and cheaper than bag liner and multi use.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

That sounds interesting. I think I've used the material only for cozzies. Is this material durable when you go backpacking? Thank you for sharing.

@BBQDad463 4 месяца назад

Thank you for this video. Great gear tips. I always take a lightweight, open-cell foam mask my Wife made for me. I wear it to sleep at night. It warms and moistens the air. I also take earplugs with me. Sometimes the night is noisy, or there are others sleeping (and snoring) nearby.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Great tip! Lots of folks carry earplugs like you suggest. Flash uses them, but I can fall asleep at a circus. My hearing also isn't the best these days. Some parts are breaking. Happy trails!

@susanp.collins7834 4 месяца назад

My trekking pole is a 1.5m stainless steel curtain dod with a ferrule at each end. I have 2 and they're hollow so I carry my cordage in them

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Great idea. I'd like to design a trekking pole that can be turned into a nice fishing rod that can be used to add a little variety to my dehydrated food diet.

@susanp.collins7834 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 I designed a hobo reel that has two storage compartments, a top can and a bottom can. The bottom can fits over the handle of the hobo reel and doubles as a cooking vessel. It's a baked beans can that I sprayed on the outside with Rust Oleum as a preservative and anti rust. It hangs from my belt. The thing that holds it together is a plastic tin lid which fastens to the bottom of the top can (on which the fishing line is fastened) so I just slip the tin can with such items as can fit into it and still leave room for the wooden handle, and clip shut. I used good screws and two part epoxy glue and the whole thing is as solid as a rock. Looks good, too, because I covered the outside of the top can with blue duct tape and the Rust Oleum on the bottom can is a lovely silver grey. Both cans hold a lot of stuff even though the handle has to fit in the bottom can. It's one-third of my 'survival' kit. The other two pouches also fit on my belt but can also be converted to shoulder straps.

@nicksmith7503 3 месяца назад

I was surprised you did not bring up excercise. I realize it is not a piece of gear, but it can improve balance, strength and longevity. I an almost 65, been working out for over 12 years, it has changed me physiocally, but also my mental state in that I Believe I can do things not associated with age. Just my 2 cents. Totally agree with the dude wipes!

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

I have spoken quite a bit about training and exercise in my older hiker tips videos. I agree, exercise is essential.

@garysakamoto4007 3 месяца назад

I bring younger people as my essential gear. 😂

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Yes, trail apprentices. As older backpackers, our job is to think the big thoughts while our younger companions do the grunt work.

@deborahsimpson2732 Месяц назад

So right! Hahahaha. Not only do I go nowhere alone, but I also almost always have a twenty or thirty something with me. Advantage of having lots of children. Hahahahahaha.

@thomasmusso1147 4 месяца назад

👍 .. after 73 Summers, with wrecked knees and a dodgy hip, I swear by my walking poles. I 'Nordic Walk' to keep in shape. I no longer 'distance hike' with heavy loads .. but with a forest just 150 metres from my front entrance and others easily accessible by means of an excellent Public Transport Infrastructure, I have no excuse to not 'get out there'. Heavier loads (for a decent 'picnic') .. I just pack everything into a shopping trolley (the two-wheeled pull-along type .. they're no hassle on public transport too) and I'm off! An alternative, I remove the 'shopping bag' and just strap on a 55 or 65 litre backpack. Chair .. not there .. yet 😏. Swiss Forests (many villages have a forest sitting adjacent or nearby) have a good infrastructure and are well-maintained. Benches / seating can be found on most of the pathways. Foam Pad .. I have a little collapsible 'concertina' closed-cell foam 'sit pad'. It takes up very little space in a day pack and is great for the rear end and knees. Also, at Bus Stops during Winter .. those that have the more modern 'slatted' metal seating 😳. Freezing the butt while waiting for the bus (not that one has to wait long .. pre-planning and a Service that 'runs on time' sees to that). However, offering the pad to an older 'Granny' reinforces a lomg-standing inbred 'old school' gallantry 😊. Watch and such .. my analogue works just fine. I have learned to 'listen' my body regarding how tired / out of breath / whatever I am at any given time .. and two fingers on my wrist pulse, six seconds times ten, give me my heart rate. Good tips .. thanks for sharing .. take care ..

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you Thomas. Three cheers for "old school gallantry." Many miles ahead, and Happy Trails from Alaska.

@douglaselkins952 4 месяца назад

I now carry a cork ball when I go backpacking. I’ll also add my vote for the insoles. An old pair of boots without proper arch support lead to a particularly painful struggle with plantar fasciitis. I use the insoles to keep the pain to a minimum, and the cork ball to massage the painful feet and any muscles that might need a little attention at the end of the hike. If I massage the night before, it makes rolling out of the tent in the morning soooo much easier.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you. One or two other commentators mentioned the cork ball. I can't imagine anything more beneficial that weighs practically nothing. Thanks for watching and sharing.

@ripple_on_the_ocean 3 месяца назад

Okay I think I need a cork ball now. The first crawl out of the tent in the morning is pretty agonizing for me...

@AWalkOnDirt 4 месяца назад

Closed cell pad vs ultralight chair: I carry a closed cell pad for reasons given in the video but I am seriously considering a light chair. Sitting on the ground though not painful is not comfortable at all. I am not comfortable on the ground when I should be very comfortable and recovering. Trekking Poles: Here in Arkansas they are a MUST regardless of age. The Ozark Highlands Trail has a TON of water crossings and the trail is rocky. All trails here have a rocky tread thus tripping is common. My tent requires them. Dude wipes: I am doing the PCT this year and plan on canteen bathes to wipe down instead of wipes. We will see how that goes. I share the dislike of the sticky feeling. Dedicated sleep clothing would be a good pick. Socks: never get blisters so I'll keep my darn tough socks. I do have a layer of wool from briefs, socks, base layer. beanie to suppress odor. Inserts: My feet usually can heal with inserts if I have foot issues. I trained with a broken bone and with an insert it healed over a marathon training cycle. If i have an issue on the PCT I will buy a set and generally in two weeks my foot issue goes away. I then take them out.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Good luck on your PCT adventure, and thank you for your insights. I like my Darn Tough socks, too, and my feet behave weirdly sometimes. It wasn't until Nor Cal in 2022 that I started getting some small blisters between my toes, not during the start of my trek as I expected might happen. It was during the downhill stretches I had to pay attention to my knees, so I learned to just love the uphill sections of the trail. Hope you have a great adventure. We're planning to hike the CT this summer.

@stephenoconnell6577 4 месяца назад

Compression socks have allowed me to avoid oedema and painful swelling after a long day's hike. I have been using hiking poles for many years and have found them excellent to help reduce the pain in my knees.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Excellent advice. Is there a specific brand of compression socks your recommend for those folks needing some.

@stephenoconnell6577 4 месяца назад

Currently, I'm just using some socks I bought at Decathlon.@@akwild1

@stephenoconnell6577 3 месяца назад

I have been using some compression socks from Decathlon.@@akwild1

@Recycledteen 4 месяца назад

I have been called a coffee snob before but one thing I carry is an 8 oz coffee grinder as my luxury item. Also as others have said, a p bottle, because in a hammock it’s so easy to use and not have to get up in the cold!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Yes! Someone who understands the importance of coffee. I'll be honest: before the PCT I agonized about bring along my titanium French press because I love coffee served that way. I decided against, mainly because I carry way too much camera gear and I had to cut back somewhere. I wound up liking Death Wish instant coffee, which wasn't as good as the fresh ground kind of which you speak. I imagine being a "coffee snob" brings a lot of friends out of the woodwork, so to speak. Thanks for watching and for sharing.

@nbutler5741 4 месяца назад

A Life Straw. Ultra light and gives access to water otherwise undrinkable. Water purification tabs, Sawyer etc. Depends where you go what you carry. Water is life.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Absolutely. I no longer take water for granted during the stretches I had to endure on the PCT where I ran out. Thank you for watching.

@tiger2too18 4 месяца назад

Fleece arm / leg warmers are small but useful to keep the slight chill away on early mornings or late nights. Also a thermometer helps me to gauge how many layers to wear to avoid getting sweaty and potentially cold .

@sheilahenry7279 4 месяца назад

Hi tiger! Shug suggested on his channel to ware a puffy vest instead of coat & jacks r better has down sleeves which can be used as warmers over arms or legs sleeping & if not needed makes a great pillow. I just found this channel.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Good to know. Thanks for watching.

@tarajoyce3598 27 дней назад

Am I the only one that likes sock liners? Dry blister free feet longer lasting socks that don't reek. Comfortable sleep system. ( whatever that means to you)

@akwild1 22 дня назад

I think there are a few in your camp on sock liners. Flash loves her Injini sock liners to guard against blisters.

@dwalker6868 4 месяца назад

Thank you for your video

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks for watching!

@jennifersullivan2718 4 месяца назад

Gear choices "to swear by, or swear at." Exactly! I'll add that Farm to Feet socks are 100% USA sourced and made, with a performance guarantee similar to Darn Tough. Well done and thank you for the tips!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks for the tip. I plan to order a pair and see how they compare. Feet are my central preoccupation when it comes to backpacking. Thank you for watching. Happy Trails.

@Cale_Davison 4 месяца назад

Thanks for the rec.

@bobv7753 4 месяца назад

Thanks AK, I've been taking the standard wipes you get in the grocery store. Great for hygiene & many other uses as you mention. Appreciate the "Dude Wipe" recommendation. Looking forward to giving them a try. As always thanks for your content!

@roberttrinies7698 4 месяца назад

To save weight,I open the wipes and let them dry out,then I put a days worth in a ziploc bag and add some water to rehydrate. ✌🏼

@ironpig701 4 месяца назад

@@roberttrinies7698 great tip

@bobv7753 4 месяца назад

@@roberttrinies7698 Thanks for the great tip about drying them out & rehydrating. Will give it a try!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks for watching. Dude Wipes are a bit stouter, and they cause you to grin a little every time you use one.

@trakyboy5128 4 месяца назад

All good stuff 👍🏼. I kid make a whole video of my own about ur vid. But I'm just going to mention one item that to me is invaluable !!! It's something I started using in my late twenties early 30's ish. A yellow nalgene bottle !!! This is so I don't have to get out of my sleeping bag at night to go pee. Once I hit my late 50s early 60s there were some prostate issues so I started peeing more often at night... That's when I was really grateful for my bottle !!! It's the same one and has never worn out. So I have a high opinion of nalgene bottles !!!! The liquid coming out of your body is warm, 98+ degrees and be cuz I never worry about my bottle, ii put I back in my bag and recycle the warmth 👍🏽😁

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

That's an innovative idea. Thanks for sharing.

@C.O._Jones 3 месяца назад

Mosquito head net. Those little devils are relentless.

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Yes, they are real buggers, the lowest form of reincarnation, especially in Oregon.

@jeffersonsharp2292 2 месяца назад

For older men particularly, a pee bottle. Stay in your tent the whole night. It really is invaluable when you get to 'that age'.

@akwild1 2 месяца назад

Probably saves the tent zipper, too.

@kristymoore7052 4 месяца назад

I LOVE my down booties. Weigh nothing, so no reason not to always have them.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Sounds toasty. My feet are my central pre-occupation on backpacking trips, so I really understand your reasoning. Thank you for sharing and for watching.

@jake_710X 3 месяца назад

Dude wipes! My fav. They have individually wrapped ones and they seem a little bit bigger than the ones in the big pack. Thanks for the tips my friend.

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

That version of Dude Wipes sounds like a winner. Thanks for sharing.

@hikingwithjackieboy 4 месяца назад

Good advice

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you so much. I appreciate it

@hikingwithjackieboy 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 you're welcome

@bcloetta 4 месяца назад

Yes to the garmin instinct solar. My Apple Watch lives on the charger now because the Garmin just goes and goes and goes! My only beef is that sometimes the charging cable does not connect and I must fiddle with it. But I LOVE this watch.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

I have the same problem during charging, but it's not too bad. Jiggling the connection usually works. I feel the same way you do about the watch. Thank you for watching this video.

@VTK72 4 месяца назад

❤❤❤

@johnpatterson9829 4 месяца назад

Never mind the insoles, it's important to avoid the air soles!

@shirleyhall1924 4 месяца назад

You know, you can evaporate the dude wipes or wet wipes, store them in a plastic bag and use a little water to rehydrate just before use. This saves weight.

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Yes, thank you.

@morrisjensen1959 3 месяца назад

Your wife will help you find a small 30-50ml plastic spray bottle, they usually come with a tube so the liquid place inside can be drawn out from the bottom. Take the tube out, fill with water and you can get a couple of good sprays each time you turn it upside-down. Makes a great bidet. (butt washer)

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

I'm sure we have a plant-watering spray bottle around here some place. Thanks for the advice.

@ScottGoesHiking 4 месяца назад

I’m 49 and hiking the AT this summer, half of it. Already got the REI 1lb chair and the Flexlight pump.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Congrats on your plan to hike the AT. I hope you have an amazing adventure.

@-alpenglow- 3 месяца назад

An Amazon bubble wrap shipping envelop. Free and weighs almost nothing. I use it three ways: a doormat for my knees getting into and out of my tent, extra insulation under my hips at night (I like my inflatable mattress saggy), and to sit on. You could also use it has a bag for washing clothes. I am also team chair. I find the thing I like least about being an older backpacker is getting up off the ground.

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

That's definitely an original idea. I'll never look at my Amazon bubble wraps the same way again. Thanks for sharing.

@godizself1 3 месяца назад

I love soft feet and hands. Never had a blister, callus or hot feet. I use hike goo, silk toe liners and darn tough socks. I also put this on my hand crease because of trekking poles and barbell training. And yes, I have silk gloves as well.

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Goo is good stuff. I think it helps prevent chaffing, too, right?

@godizself1 3 месяца назад

@@akwild1 The bottle does read that although I haven't used it for that purpose.

@HuangXingQing 4 месяца назад

Just seein' that trail up Whitney gits me 'cited! I spied someone washin' laundry in a bear can. Hmm. That a great secret or a one off? BTW, two poles give you 3 points of contact, if you're not standin' still. ;-) Just picked up my NRS Hydroskin sox from REI's Outlet last night. Haven't pulled the trigger on Injinji or the foam pad since my suitcase is full now and I'm hopin' my inflatable will be safe until a hiker box sprouts a foam pad for me!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Whitney is pretty magical at sunrise. Love it. We used our bear canister for laundry when it was all we had. Sound like you have your feet dialed in. Good luck on the trail.

@billjames3148 4 месяца назад

Hope the next video will be HOW TO USE TREKING POLES. hand straps too.. I like them because of balance problems. Im getting a real life bump hat so when I do fall with a backpack on I lessen the impact with the ground i hope. I know it seems dorky to wear a helmet but with TBI and other head injuries I'll take the laughs and pointy fingers.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks Bill, What you're doing seems very reasonable to me. I've seen a lot stranger things on the PCT. I'll have to think about producing an episode on hiking with trekking poles. I busted one of mine last year in Oregon, and I have to consciously remember to not let either of the poles get out directly in front of my feet where I risk tripping over them. Thank you for watching.

@geniesejamison1996 4 месяца назад

paper map and compass have always works😃🗺🥾

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Old school skill never die. Thank you.

@gr8bkset-524 4 месяца назад

I bring my knee braces and wear them during the hike. They soften each shock, which cumulatively over time could lead to swollen stiff knees. With them on, my stiff knees problems went away.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Good idea. To me, it seems the downhill sections beat up my knees the most. When I feel knee pain, I use a knee stretch exercise that seems to help. Thanks for your tip.

@robingreen2372 3 месяца назад

@@akwild1 And what knee stretch exercise would that be? I've had problem with knee pain on the downhill for years.

@thesmithsmaf 3 месяца назад

I swear by a bag of hot chips, not too greasy but doused in enough salt and vinegar for them to be an almost ever lasting snack on a long day trip. You can use the wrapping paper as a protective hat in the winter too! Win win!!

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

I always get a kick when I see a through hiker lash a bag of chips to the top of their backpacks after they left town. I usually get chip cravings along the trail. Thanks for your advice.

@judithmacdonald363 4 месяца назад

Mole skin is essential too!

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you. We needed a lot of Mole Skin for our son this past year on the PCT. He earned the trail name Blisters.

@godizself1 3 месяца назад

I always have lipstick. My lips never chap. I want to look alive in pictures with color. And you know what, it makes me feel pretty on the trails.

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

I remember hiking in Hawaii and smelling perfume and after shave on some of the hikers passing by. I guess that adds new meaning to the phrase, "hike your own hike." Your comment made me smile. Thank youj.

@johnseals7498 4 месяца назад

Trekking poles provide better balance but also provide propulsion on uphills, braking or cushioning on downhills, and provide arm and upper body exercise.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Yes they do. On some slippery sections, I was very glad to have them. Thank you.

@Neno101 4 месяца назад

Regarding footwear, A boot with a shañk for stiffness will keep your feet from getting tired and sore from constant flexing.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Yes, I express that very sentiment in my next video. I'm thinking seriously about abandoning my light-weight trail runners for my mid-weight boots on the Colorado Trail next summer. A few other folks in the comments agree with you. Thanks for watching.

@JLu20 3 месяца назад

“Shank you” very much for the good footwear advice 😉👍

@jamesadams2334 4 месяца назад

I no longer hike due to age and Lyme Disease but when I did, I always took a Crazy Creek chair with me. I would say that from the age of 50 until now (I'm 71) I much appreciated the back support it gave me. I had very few sore back mornings on the trail, and I did have them prior to carrying the chair. A side benefit is that you can un-clip it and lay it flat under your sleeping pad for more R value too. I managed to get my pack down to 27-28 pounds even with the chair and a liter of whiskey from 72 pounds on Springer during my first thru hike in 1990. Hike safe, Hike strong, Have fun! geek

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you James. I believe there is one solid theme in many of the comments: the benefits of taking along a hiking chair. Thank you, and thanks for your good tidings.

@pedroclaro7822 4 месяца назад

Ignore arch support Insoles or shoes. The foot is a spring and needs the arch. Use flat footwear! Closed cell foam pad all the way! Fast to sit on for a sec and get off the ground, and so many other things. I’m still young but the best thing I’ve done is use a hammock. Comfortable sleep over a little more weight. I sleep all throughout the night unless I have to pee on my Amok Draumr

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

I'm glad that works for you, but it didn't for me on the PCT. For example, I tried zero-drop Altras, which most people raved about, and my feet were miserable, and the arch supports did help my feet. That's based on my experience hiking 2620 miles on the PCT.

@pedroclaro7822 4 месяца назад

Can't argue with that! hike your own hike then :D@@akwild1

@sheilahenry7279 4 месяца назад

Another use for that large pad is as cover for a squat/pee.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Better than camo. Thanks for the insight. Happy Trails.

@skyblue-lb9kr 4 месяца назад

Excellent! You might like alpaca insoles :)

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

I never heard of those. Flash and I both have Alpaca hoodies, which we love. Alpaca hiking clothes seems to be the new trend, for a good reason. Thanks for the tip.

@jimbrown8313 4 месяца назад

Looks like that would make the alpaca mad!?

@toghikes 4 месяца назад

Dude Wipes are awesome. They help prevent getting a rash in the, ummmm, neither regions. I won’t leave home without them. For good leave no trace practice I haul them out with my trash.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thank you, glad to see a fellow brother of the Dude Wipe. Yes, hauling them out. That's called my nasty bag.

@AnthonyMarchenko 2 месяца назад

thank you sir, great video p.s. I'm just 38, but it was great advice, and you look better than me! ahaha

@akwild1 2 месяца назад

Thank you! I appreciate you for watching. Happy Trails!

@Neno101 4 месяца назад

Destin cream for rash. It can make a big difference. Us regular not Xtra as regular is less greasy and comes off easily.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Good tip. Thank you. Sometimes folks get chaffing, and I've seen some hikers on the PCT use Body Glide. I had to use chapstick in a pinch, and it did work. I'll look up your recommendation. Thank you.

@ironpig701 4 месяца назад

Use all that gear minus the watch. Love dude wipes at end of the day like a nice bath.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

And the name Dude Wipes, always makes you grin regardless of how much pain your feel. Thanks for watching.

@sheilahenry7279 4 месяца назад

Iron pig! What a name lol Do you ride a Harley?

@frankmorris4790 3 месяца назад

Gear for older backpackers? And THIS is why God made horses!

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

And perhaps, drones. Maybe one day we'll all use drones to shuttle all our gear from one camp spot to the next. It doesn't seem too far out there.

@jsoll1695 4 месяца назад

Great information and video. What brand or style of hiking clothes do you use. I had skin cancer and would like recommendations on long pants for summer and winter. Jeans are uncomfortable. Also do you use shoe gaters when hiking

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

I believe there isn't one brand of pants that works for everyone. I like hiking in Kuhl pants because they're pretty flexible. I agree with your comment about jeans; I don't like them. Last summer on the PCT I tried some REI shoe gaiters, but I destroyed them pretty quickly. It's usually the strap or line that goes under the shoe arch that is the weak link and cuts, frays or splits. Flash likes her Dirty Girl gaiters and treats them better than I do. My feet get very dirty when hiking long distances, and I do occasionally have to contend with pebbles in my shoes. For me, it's just one of those things I get used to on the trail.

@craiggodard6419 4 месяца назад

A sun hoodie, it has extra long sleeves with thumb holes to protect the hands as well. I always wear long pants and a sleeved top or sun hoodie plus hat when its sunny. Spending hours in the summer sun in shorts and tee shirt is asking for trouble.

@user-tg9if2ez1e 3 месяца назад

Generally wipes are not biodegrable and should packed out per leave no trace. Other than that good list, but my can't leave without gear is now a packtowl. Great for washing and wiping down tent when wet. Dries super fast.

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

I mentioned in the comments that I carry a nasty bag for TP and wipes. I don’t bury them.

@Neno101 4 месяца назад

I'm working on overcoming your 1st thing on your list of mistakes...Not going, but, I am doing day hikes to prepare for a longer trip someday.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

That's how it begins, with day hikes. Too many people put a majority of their emphasis on gear, but I think having a solid "why" is much more important. Now that I have the PCT behind me, my why comes down to the fact that I love the sensation of feeling physically and mentally sound on the trail. I also just really like to walk, and keep on walking. I think doing daily hikes is a great way to get into the routine of what you do on the trail. I wish you the best as you move toward your grand adventure.

@shorea27 4 месяца назад

I bring a hammock even tho i have a tent. The hammock doubles as a chair and sets up just as quickly. Only requirement is a couple of trees tho.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

It also keeps you out of the ants. I imagine it's very light, too. I'd love to sleep in a hammock and watch the stars at night... You got me thinking.

@shorea27 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 I love that I can comfortably elevate my feet on a hmmock that I can't do with a camp chair. Helps with some minor dizziness and my legs recover faster.

@Karen-dq8nw 4 месяца назад

I find wipes to be too heavy, and generally unnecessary. I might take a few dried ones, only on a short hike. For long hikes, I just bring a lightweight washcloth and use water to wash. Or a tiny bit of soap with it, well away from lakes or streams. The more I can eliminate from my pack, the happier I am.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks Karen, I also carry a micro-cloth for washing, too. The Dude Wipes certainly are a trail luxury.

@sheilahenry7279 4 месяца назад

You can dehydrate (leave open to air out) the wipes & then just add a bit of water for use.

@richardinjapan4578 4 месяца назад

Appreciate this "swear-by" list. Might you also advise of your "swear-at" list?

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Richard, that's a great idea. You got me thinking.

@richardinjapan4578 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 In some respects it may be just as useful as the "swear-by" list. Perhaps a list of age-related factors that led to the colorful language and modification of your gear.

@glenloewen7507 4 месяца назад

This likely isn’t an “older hiker” item so much as it’s just been my goto for the past 30 years. However, I have an item called “The Original Bug Shirt”. It can be hot, but it’s been a piece of gear that’s been an absolute staple of mine, young and older…

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks Glen. As you can imagine, the mosquitoes in Alaska are notorious, and they were pretty annoying last year when I hiked through the PCT in Oregon. Anything to level the playing field against the bugs works for me. How does the Bug Shirt work on what we call the no-seeums?

@glenloewen7507 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 First off, you’re awesome. I live in south central Canada, and the nearest national park to me is a place called Riding Mountain National Park. I’ve hiked every kilometer multiple times over the years, and on bad bug years, the mosquitoes are off the charts (as can be the bears). That bug shirt is a staple of mine because I prefer it so much over deet. It provides complete protection regarding no-seeums as well, so for me it’s just been an incredible piece of gear. I will admit it gets hot on warm sunny days, but water is in abundance, and I’d rather sweat than deal with too many bugs. Not to mention, although I have a spare, I’ve been using the same one for 30 years. What a great product.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

@@glenloewen7507 Glen, I looked up the Bug Shirt, and I realized that Flash has one that might be the same or similar, and she loves it. I agree with your comments about Deet. I think I'll order one, try it out and talk about it during a future episode on how to deal with mosquitoes. Thanks for the tip. When I was in my early 20s I worked as a fishing guide in the Bristol Bay region. I remember one of our clients was a dentist, and each morning, he gave each of his guides a big fat cigar, which worked wonders on repelling mosquitoes. The cigar smoking habit never took with me, but the memory is still there. Thanks again.

@gregeberhardt1711 3 месяца назад

Zero chair and small umbrella….comfort is king

@akwild1 3 месяца назад

Yes it is! Thank you. The Zero chair is quite a hit for folks on this channel. Thanks for watching and sharing.

@gregeberhardt1711 3 месяца назад

@@akwild1 Hit me too...there are a couple of cheaper options...1/4 the price and only twice the weight.

@stevethornton3539 4 месяца назад

Do those wipes break down and compost fairly quickly in the ground or in the forest service privy?

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

That's a good question. According to Conserve, Energy, Future, they are biodegradable. They are made from pure cotton, and it contains organic ingredients. However, I don't think they break down as quickly as TP.

@polarbear6265 4 месяца назад

From my research all wipes biodegradable or not need to be packed out. Not buried or put in privy.

@Ericidryfly 4 месяца назад

Last couple of years I’ve added a bidet and a pee bottle to my kit. No more getting out of the tent 2 or 3 times a night.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Thanks Eric. Those items seem very popular with a few older hikers on this channel. Thanks for sharing.

@marymclaughlin2559 4 месяца назад

Definitely a pole. I find sticks can suffice

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

I have beautiful diamond willow sticks on my land that make wonderful hiking sticks. Nothing says "seasoned woodsman" like a hiking stick. Thank you.

@Jakelol1980 4 месяца назад

A 9-10cm (3.5 inch) sleeping pad so that i get some good sleep and have the energy to walk the next day.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

That's a stout sleeping pad. Next week, I'm going to talk about how important it is to dial in your sleep system. You seem to already have that one figured out. Thanks for watching.

@Jakelol1980 4 месяца назад

@@akwild1 Yes Im using a Big Agnes Rapide SL and its the best unless your going to sleep in very cold conditions.

@-alpenglow- 3 месяца назад

I agree. I am more comfortable on my 3.5" Big Agnes sleeping pad than in my bed at home. I took a thinner one last summer and totally regretted it.

@BushcraftNFun 4 месяца назад

A blow up pillow.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

Absolutely. My trekology pillow survived the entire PCT. It's very ragged and nasty, but I don't have the heart to retire it.

@sk-wx1cf 4 месяца назад

I love having trekking poles, which I still call "hiking sticks". A 1 lb chair, such as REI Flexlite or Helinox Zero. Flextail pump. I disagree about wipes, which are an added expense and more waste to pack out; they are not biodegradable. Just take a cloth, wet it, and use it to clean up.

@akwild1 4 месяца назад

I'm sensing a lot of chair advocates in the comments. I like comfort, and I think I would like a chair mostly because it would make it a little more challenging for the ants to invade during siestas.

@georgechristovich6239 Месяц назад

😂😂😂😂😂 I am a 64 M. My essential gear fits in my pockets. My extended kit fits in a 30 liter bag.

@akwild1 Месяц назад

30 liter for backpacking is stunning.

@georgechristovich6239 Месяц назад

@@akwild1 Thanks. I cheat; a lot. I I spent years homeless and am more of a vagabond than a backpacker. - Most of my load is tools. - I never carry a tent. I carry 2 tarps. - If my load balloons for some reason, then one tarp becomes my backpack until my load shrinks again. - When conditions are right, one tarp is a hammock and the other a fly. If it’s too cold for a hammock, then I have a shelter and ground sheet. Cardboard and Mylar make a great, heat reflective sleeping pad. - I carry one set of clothes and two sets of underwear. In the winter, I get by with lighter jackets by using hand warmers near my skin to stay warm and light. - I don’t carry a stove and rarely make a fire. - I scavenge and scrounge as much as possible and try very hard not to get addicted to any specialized gear. I move pretty comfortably from urban to rural and wilderness. I have to go a little farther to get iron rations on the AT than in the city, but the same rules apply.