No video :(

We need to talk about the current state of Backpacking YouTube...

Подписаться 17 тыс.

Просмотров 14 тыс.

50% 1

Editor and producer for my channel Luke McKay joins me for a candid conversation about the backpacking niche. We answer the follow questions; What is the current state of backpacking RU-vid? What can be done to take this niche to the next level? And, who are some of the creators we feel are currently pushing boundaries and making truly unique content?
Luke's channel: ‪@luke_mckay‬
Trail Tales episode 177 (Kyle Hates Hiking podcast)
Listen to the show on:
Apple Podcasts - podcasts.apple...
Spotify - open.spotify.c...
Subscribe to my RU-vid channel: / @kylehateshiking
Follow me on Instagram 📸: / kylehateshiking
For sponsorships, business inquiries, or guest/episode ideas reach out to: trailtalespod@gmail.com
My Gear spreadsheet: lighterpack.co...
BIG FOUR 🤘
Backpack: ula-equipment....
My FAVORITE Tent: zpacks.com/pro...
Sleeping Pad: amzn.to/35rlMIw
OTHER SLEEPING STUFF 💤
Pillow: amzn.to/3he3mgX
FOOD & WATER 🍴
Filter: amzn.to/3pfZ25j
Stove: amzn.to/3simgd1
Cook Pot: amzn.to/3LSjqmJ
Spork: amzn.to/3shROja
Water Storage: amzn.to/3sinBk3
CLOTHING 👔
Shorts: amzn.to/3sdiQrL
Socks: amzn.to/3M2nPUi
Rain Jacket: amzn.to/3JPMBoy
Down Jacket: amzn.to/3UrHG2Q
ELECTRONICS 🔌
Power Bank: amzn.to/3t4fDds
Headlamp: amzn.to/3M9yrke
Wall Plug: amzn.to/3pa3JNJ
MISCELLANEOUS 🤘
Trekking Poles: amzn.to/3hqT39n
Ultralight Knife: amzn.to/3t0m3dL
Trowel: amzn.to/3CL0Ys6
Shoulder Pocket for Backpack: ula-equipment....
This video and description contains affiliate links, which means if you click on one of the product links, I'll receive a small commission at no cost to you. This helps support the channel and allows me to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!

Опубликовано:

21 авг 2024

Ссылка:

Скачать:

Готовим ссылку...

Добавить в:

Мой плейлист

Посмотреть позже

Комментарии : 170

@Redskies453 3 месяца назад

I feel like the scene is all about gear and winning the pack weight challenge instead of the trail, or the suck, or the reasons we go out. Like if you want to collect lots of things and carry less weight, just live in your house.

@melanie_meanders 3 месяца назад

YES

@edwardbenton4428 3 месяца назад

Check out Daley Outdoors. Look for the thumbnail with the title This Gear Almost Killed Me. A parody video of gear reviewers, posted about 11 days ago

@matt67524 3 месяца назад

Don’t you know you can hike way faster with a 9.5 pound pack VS an 11 pound pack?!?! No wonder you don’t have a backpacking RU-vid channel!

@ThatUpster 3 месяца назад

Personal preference

@amynapier3551 3 месяца назад

It's quality over quantity. Miranda is popular because she enjoys the experience as well having her REI background. Early Riser 71 is respected because he shared tips from his military experience that could help us. There are hikers who raised money for charity, are newbies to the journey, travelled as a family, faced a time challenge to complete the trail, are trying to complete a bucket list dream or hiking to heal in some way. Every story is compelling and important. In terms of memorable videos, I loved Sharon and Nate from Between the Blazes because they showed you don't need a 30-minute daily video of a thru hike. The AT documentary, Walking Home is one of the best because it follows four hikers from Maine who travelled NOBO to Katahdin. For those looking for a long-term, full-time backpacking channel, it's hard to figure out a way to have the time and finances to do a thru hike or multiple hikes a year. Then what videos do you make to fill in the gaps in between trips? People are drawn to authenticity. Just stay true to yourself, enjoy the journey and preserve the memories. You'll find your niche within the backpacking community.

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

"people are drawn to authenticity" is so true!

@MrOmarMasry 8 дней назад

Great great points!

@melanie_meanders 3 месяца назад

dude GO HIKE you don’t have to give us a heads up!! all of us in the northern hemisphere are all out here too! have a great season!!

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

So good to be back! Always love hanging with Kyle/the audience! Hopefully y'all kinda got to see some BTS, and see the kinda things we think and chat about off camera! We love talking ideas, and building on them. Can't wait to eventually share more specific projects!

@GrizzlyGaz 3 месяца назад

Can't wait to see them 😎

@Nickropolis 3 месяца назад

In every "scene", gear videos are the default easy money. Companies will sponsor videos, consumers will click to watch and buy whatever their chosen relatable personality says is the one to buy. It's hard to break free of doing the safe thing that you know will get you clicks but if you want to be the guy you have to take risks. Breaking the mold and doing something that goes against the current meta will never not be risky. Nothing ventured nothing gained.

@lizbean2 3 месяца назад

Dude, I love the idea of at-camp interviews for the podcast. You could film b-roll of your hike throughout the day to play over it. Nice overnight trip with your interviewee would probably make for really interesting conversations! Also, it IS the people. My favorite part of your PCT series was always watching you, Flossy, and Brandon shooting the shit, cracking jokes, etc.

@shea4615 3 месяца назад

I would watch these kind of videos

@dadassery7777 24 дня назад

Thatd be cool. Canadian prepper used to do that a bit way back when he was watchable

@monaamsden453 3 месяца назад

Please continue to post your hiking videos! As much as I appreciate the turn you’ve made to the more “mystery” concept videos, I truly miss your genuine experience while on trail, good or bad. It is what has kept me as a viewer.

@sherrycook7043 3 месяца назад

As a non-hiker it's amazing how much I enjoy your channels. You and Miranda are my favorites and always enjoy seeing when a new vid has dropped. Even though I don't hike I'm an avid moto-camper. I hope you don't hate motorcycles, especially off-pavement ones. I enjoy the gear reviews and learn about new products that work nicely for what I do. You mentioned audio quality and I agree bad audio has me leaving a vid rapidly. I do like voice overs. A combination of audio while on the trail and voice overs are even better. Keep up the great work, you inspire me to want to get in shape for hiking. My dream is to hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and back up again.

@MirandaGoesOutside 3 месяца назад

Thank you so much 🥰

@rebeccasponderings8459 3 месяца назад

My Life Outdoors is the Mythhbusters of backpacking. 😊

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

Facts.

@edwardbenton4428 3 месяца назад

I think gearskeptic is like Mythbusters

@Harry-Giles 3 месяца назад

I've liked the direction the main channel has taken. I also like the long format for Trail Tales. I would be interested in some backpacking trip videos for the main channel also. Eric Hanson seems to have a good formula, SUV-RVing also. And TOGR also has a nice mix. With Eric's stuff I have really liked the collaborative things he has done with guests on videos. I think you are right to consider trying new things. But there will always be a market for some of the mainstream topics being mixed in. Good to see Luke.

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

✌🏼

@chase-life 3 месяца назад

Really enjoyed this episode with you and Luigi...er...Luke! I am hoping to stop by Trail Days and say hi (long time Patreon of Kyles). I have been on the AT and just got out of the Smokies. Weather has sucked a lot on the trail. -Randy Chase And I like to collect things and I like less weight and love discussing my Durston gear. :)

@HikingwithGus 3 месяца назад

I am a small part time channel and don't do a lot of content these days. But I have found you have to be relatable and authentic to be successful in the YT world, like Steven from My Outdoor Life. There are so many aspects to being successful in this format of media. I think the most successful content creators have the ability to pull the viewer into the video and make them a part of that video and when the video is over find themselves wanting more. Which makes me wonder why I keep watching your videos.... :) just kidding. Good content here Kyle.... Cheers!

@GrizzlyGaz 3 месяца назад

Look to us Brits for some inspiration. Most of my audience arent even into backpacking! 🤣 American channels just seem to focus on gear while most of us over the pond focus on the adventure... I get out camping every week and I've always got something interesting going on in my videos plus I have a mascot that comes with me everywhere - Fenzel Washington the French Bulldog! Some say she's the star of the show 😉

@impulsivewanderer Месяц назад

I'd actually have to 100% agree with this

@ChristopherMarshburn 3 месяца назад

Maybe realize the subject matter has certain inherent limitations for a niche interest and focus more on quality and interesting subject matter, rather than “innovation” whatever that means. I believe people would be interested in more videos about interesting places to hike and backpack and the practical aspects of adventuring in those places. There are so many cool places I can think of I’ve never seen a video about or at least a well made and interesting video about it. When it comes to gear “reviews” my impression in the community is that these now have about the same credibility as an infomercial. That being said maybe brutally honest gear reviews that aren’t afraid of offending gear companies and have a crowd sourced element to them would be interesting. Frankly the best gear videos are not from review channels but from people who have vlogged their thru hike and then do a video about what gear did or didn’t work on the hike and why.

@sheilasunshine9173 3 месяца назад

I’d love to see more ideas for smaller trips that are more doable for the rest of us! I don’t mind gear videos at all but I would love to see more variety from everyone.

@edwardbenton4428 3 месяца назад

Some ideas...Some are short Some are longer. Elise Ott April Adventuring Miranda Goes Outside Amanda Outdoors Kevin at Small Plots Camping with Sam Bananas Huck Outdoors For South West Exploration The Trek Planner Desert Drifter Southwest Backpacker Just a few I watch

@the_Dogpacker 3 месяца назад

Check camping with Steve 😊

@rayosunshine 3 месяца назад

Good to see Luke again. Always love his view of hiking and his comedy.

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

Howdy 🤠

@crawfordcockers 3 месяца назад

Dude you're going to love Utah. Everything is so accessible

@daenathedreamy9053 2 месяца назад

I got into hiking videos, because I love being in nature and adore RU-vid for being able to watch beautiful places from all over the world. I also like gear videos etc. to learn new things. Relatively recently I’ve started my own channel as a hobby. This has many different motivations: a) I get to share my part of the world (Germany) with the rest of the world. This is why I make an English version of my videos. I’ve been trying to find my own style and have decided on having at least one interesting fact in a video, about a historical place I walk past or a local legend, etc. I love learning new things while editing and maybe through this I cannot only hike but also put parts of our culture out into the world. b) My German versions are for people from around here who might be interested in doing the hike and research in advance. I love to watch RU-vid to prepare my hikes looking at the terrain and which gear and clothes would be appropriate. c) The whole process enriches my own life. I’ve got a full time desk job and on the weekends I need to move outside to compensate. Last year I always went to the same forest behind our house. Now I explore other places and convert a standard Sunday walk into a micro adventure. I think doing this as a hobby only has the advantage that I can focus on what I want to do instead of what generates more clicks. Great topic by the way!

@meroemuseum7995 22 дня назад

Congrats on joining the best my beloved #usaf. Aimhigh!

@brettspencer892 3 месяца назад

I been loving A Quiet Place Adventures lately. High quality shots and editing. Luke has been killing it and if I had a channel I would like it to be like his with The Outdoor Gear Review. Great convo and keep up the great work.

@ChrisOUTEC 3 месяца назад

Would "interviewing" thru-hikers at shelters and "reporting" &/or "quoting" their varied tips, tricks, thoughts, lessons, etc, either during a conversation or via post-conversation notes potentially be a thing?

@VictoriaGomez-rf2qw Месяц назад

I am older and would love to see some videos on beginner hikers, because you could really teach us with your knowledge, also find a way to get the younger kids into hiking, they would probably not be so full of anxiety if they spent mor time in nature! You’re cool still so they would probably be receptive to you!

@impulsivewanderer Месяц назад

I think going on overnight or weekend trips with a guest would be awesome for the channel, it takes interviewing to another level, even if it's once a month. You may already know this but I think audio only you will have to talk them through the experience more, Location, weather, time of day for instance. Editing would be harder but letting the audio audience know if they want to see more details of the trip to watch maybe an "extended" episode cut they could come this channel. The interviews could be set-up at camp and the extended footage could be the hiking footage added in after the interview on youtube ect. I feel like that might push people to want to watch after already listening as well to see more from their favorite content creators.

@dadassery7777 24 дня назад

Holy crap, I definitely prefer when you talk about hiking. I think you talk about your job while doing your job more than you realize

@earthlingannie3426 3 месяца назад

My idea is MORE LUKE! lol and I watch backpacker radio for Chaunce. I get invested in the people like what you said about Miranda.

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

LOL good to see you again, Annie! I'll be able to get much more involved towards the end of 2026. 😁

@valeriee3039 3 месяца назад

This was an interesting take. I like following Miranda Goes Outside and her recent video on stopping a hike due to her mental health concerns, and also Homemade Wanderlust and Nahamsha Hiker (who are both pregnant) and their content. Gear videos are informative - but I also follow youtube channels that are just starting their AT hike and see their journey. Also like to follow someone like Darwin because I trust his experience. Personality is important but also authenticity is why I follow certain channels. I really like your missing stories and how you have a link to Search and Rescue organizations who need support. Great job!

@anninwhack1998 3 месяца назад

I think we all just want to see you on any trail. Hopefully some vids when you get back on mainland. Impressed by you and Luke brainstorming! How about watering hole chats w willing hikers /bpackers you will run into. Never know what interesting folks you will run into. Micro interviews on the trail.

@Word187 3 месяца назад

Very informative thank you! Capturing the why is really hard to do. I just recently bought a camera so I can make my outdoor experiences in to video memories to share with friends. I still have a lot to learn but there is progress.

@megkjones 3 месяца назад

I think a big part of the challenge is that RU-vid is built to reward hyper-specificity, so niches are somewhat limited by the inherent reach of the particular topic. It's really hard for a channel to be more than one thing- ie a traditional backpacking channel where people would come for tips/tricks/gear reviews/etc, but also higher-concept, documentary-style, etc. RU-vid the platform wants creators to make more of the same thing so they can keep feeding it to the users they have identified who like that specific kind of content- rather than showing certain videos from the same creator to users who like some things, and a other videos to a different audience segment. By extension then, I think the sweet spot in terms of reach is a consistent approach that has enough applications and twists to keep engaging a consistent audience, and ideally a niche that has enough natural reach for that audience to be on the larger side. Backpacking is tough because it may not be quite dramatic enough to draw a huge "just curious" audience the way things like surviving in Alaska, living in a ghost town, etc might. Its natural audience might be limited primarily to people who actually share an interest in doing it.

@jimizxztheorginal 3 месяца назад

Take current news and videos from the backpacking/hiking community and talk about them with your guests. That how a lot of other podcasts make it to that "next level". Idk how this audience would receive it but its an idea.

@deborahwhitaker9294 3 месяца назад

I enjoyed your hiking videos, they take me to places I know I will never be able to go to...

@serinaadalenamielaelverlv7465 2 месяца назад

Videos on how to handle specific emergencies and first aid tips on trail. What can you do/use if you loose essential gear. Suvival tips if things go wrong. Like hands on problem solving on different topics. It will fit well in relation to your stories of people got lost. Best ways to be found. What can you do your self to help the rescue teams. If they cant see you they might not find you. If you have a whistle, some might hear you. If you have 20 meter of red light weight yarn, then you can track you way back to the trail, so you won't get lost while peeing in the wilderness. The list goes on. There are many things to know, that will help yourself and others i difficult situations.

@mikeyhikeys 3 месяца назад

Great timing on the subject! Couldn’t agree more. A thoughtful conversation and solid conversation

@love3V07 3 месяца назад

Oh mylanta! I like your mustache.

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

My Lanta, indeed!

@harduphiker 3 месяца назад

The big problem with videos in the backpacking niche is nothing happens. They get to the place...then what? Or they just camp somewhere...and look at the scenery. There has to be someting more - the gear itself is a tool, it does not matter. So I do artworks and talk about history, revisit places I went before, etc...Others do bushcraft or show those skills. It isn't enough to just hike or camp. You need a USP - even if it's just 'I have this cute dog' or 'i can do this thing' or 'I have a watchable persona' - the latter is rare but does happen....but there has to be a reason to be there. It feels like many YT hikers and backpackers are doing the thing FOR a video. That isn't enough. Has to be a personal link, a desire, a challenge, an aim, a hook, something that makes it special.

@craigcampbell6961 3 месяца назад

Drone use is the most important element in recent videos. People want to know where. That and a number of map locations.

@miscbs 3 месяца назад

Luke is my hero!

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

Flossy is mine!

@harduphiker 3 месяца назад

But myself I've tried to expand the niche with humour, and also history and do different things - like my Thames Path series, talking about my own city, hiking in my backyard basically but showing you there's interesting stuff there too. It just takes some experimentation, the problem is people copy the formats without thinking 'hey...does this work for this journey/video?' - that's when it can get samey. And samey can be good - like a comfortable coat, some channels do that well, because you're invested in them and their thing, it's like comfort food. But we all can try different things and not stay in the same rut.

@GratefulTrekker 2 месяца назад

Maybe try to mix in paddling videos it's a whole new audience that can crossover? It's still packing but in a different way and pick places you can stop and hike... Or branch out and try winter 🔙 or snow showing with a sled... Also maybe do Backcountry backpacking or do follow up hikes retracing some of your videos on tragedy on trail...

@Word187 3 месяца назад

Yeah, I follow your main channel since you started the PCT with Flossy. I miss those videos but I also understand the route your main channel has taken. Which I also like but if you could find a way to also upload hiking content somewhere that would be great!

@courtneyatkins8999 Месяц назад

I watch gear videos because I'm fascinated with backpacking gear. 🙂In the beginning, it was to familiarize myself with a broad range of gear in my free time, because we were hiking more and it was interesting. Now, the kids want to move into backpacking, too, so watching is for a more specific reason. But I'll still watch a gear video of something I'm months or a year (or more) from needing, just because it's interesting to me. I'm not the person who runs out and spends money on it just because I saw a video, so it's fairly harmless for me. I had NO intention of backpacking when we first started hiking, but enjoyed videos. Now I'd love to backpack, and my kids would, and I have a reasonable foundation to be able to compare what we need and not just blow $3,000 watching 5 of "the top lightest most amazingest bestest gear ever!!" videos.

@debbilermond1553 3 месяца назад

I love this topic to explore. Thanks Kyle & Luke for taking this on. One thing you've been doing lately that I really love are the backpack/hiking disasters of real people. It brings a human interest to the channel that keeps me coming back for more real life dramas. As far as backpacking content creators, Steven Smith (My Life Outdoors) is one of my favorites! Love the wind testing with tents. I couldn't stop laughing and what a way to remember the important things using humor. He also gets the gear makers to up their game when their products don't stand up to their claims. And I agree with you regarding Miranda "It's My Show, Gosh Darn"! I started watching her for the REI reviews because my husband's had an REI membership for 40 years. When she set out on her own, I was happy for her because I actually buy very little REI brand products. I'm glad she can promote other brands now because there are so many to choose from. She really is quite the character and hails from my backyard in Washington State. 🤣

@ByondTheNorm 3 месяца назад

I’m a smaller channel transitioning to predominately hiking and backpacking content and I love this idea. Less than 7k subs is the perfect time to experiment. Thanks guys! This video definitely got me thinking of ways to stand out and change things up a bit.

@valeriesorrells 3 месяца назад

Keep shooting the shit and having a good time... that's why I started following both of your channels. I love your sense of humor.

@yarning4asmile 2 месяца назад

As someone who is wanting to get back into it, I see so many videos on the newest and greatest gear out there... BUT we are in times when money is tight y'all! Not everyone can go out and buy new gear, some want to maybe look at resale groups but don't know what to look for in used gear or even things that are a necessity over convenience. There is not a lot of videos on seeking out used gear...I checked.

@danielnotdamast816 Месяц назад

Stop doubting ur self Kyle ur pretty much the only hiking RU-vidr I watch ngl

@JamesGolden-co5ox 3 месяца назад

I might be in the minority, but I just want to see you guys hiking through beautiful places. Gear was interesting when I was planning on backpack last year, but normally I'm not shopping for gear.

@the_Dogpacker 3 месяца назад

This. I do appreciate gear videos but I only ever watch them when I need to buy something

@u842 2 месяца назад

That's good because I'm playing catch up. 😊 I'm on #34.

@chefegzyle 3 месяца назад

Great podcast as always! I absolutely love Luke! A lot of my editing style matches his. As a very very baby channel, my first approach was using my chef background and do high end backpacking cooking. However, the more I backpack, the more I fell in love with the beauty of smaller trails. So now i try to put out high-end cinema and photography with my fun edits around it. I agree with all these points. Gotta shake some cages! (Insert Homer simpson rattling a bird cage)

@rolfdenver 3 месяца назад

I think two things you missed, or didn’t touch on so much, are humor and age brackets. As for humor, I love backpacking videos and podcasts, but I see way too many that are totally humorless (including my limited number of RU-vid videos). Kyle, you have a great sense of humor, so your creations are typically funnier than most. Sometime soon I’m going to make a RU-vid vide utilizing a backcountry bidet, two balloons - plus one balloon knot in the middle - and some pudding to demonstrate how well a bidet works. That might be funny or it might be cringey or both. As for age brackets, there are a lot of older hikers out there like me. All of the contributions by those older hikers, including my own, are typically pretty humorless and not that interesting (“here’s what we did on day 23,” etc.). There’s often a lot of grunting and groaning about how it sucks to get old. Or else they go too far in the opposite direction and show these superhuman old people who make the rest of us feel worthless. Anyway, there are some funny, rude, older hikers out there - myself definitely not included - who could be interesting to feature if it’s done the right way. For example, Pony Bonneyman on BPR was a hilarious guest and he’s in his 60s. This was a good episode.

@DryBonesOutdoors 3 месяца назад

I swear man this video is right on time for me. I've only been in the space for a short time but it seems like I came into the niche too late and how can I come up with a video about a peace of gear that hasn't already been talked about. Plus it also seems like gear companies have kind of gotten stale themselves. Plus you can search almost any trail in any national or state park and there's already a ton of videos on them as well. I will say this and maybe this is more of the direction you are going but the one thing that most of the videos in this space lack is "story telling" There's story telling in your more travel vlog type videos but there's no plot or conflict that lead to a resolution. I've been thinking of ways to cliff hangers to my story to keep the viewer engaged.

@skizifacation 3 месяца назад

Not going to lie your thumbnails pushed me from watching long before I did. The Eric Hanson story brought me to watch/listen. Since I have subscribed, but personally I try avoiding anything that looks like your thumbnails. Other than that I love your channels keep up the hard work.

@tessheaven 3 месяца назад

I think backpacking stories work really well in the podcast format, because not everybody is a youtuber (or even if they are they may not be filming all the time) but so many people have exciting or interesting stories to tell. For a video little clips or stock footage can be enough as long as the story is compelling. I love hearing about the dangers and lessons we can learn that you tell on your main channel.

@Gaius_Sinstone 3 месяца назад

Fwiw: I found my way here from your main channel from the true crime side. I’m not a hiker. I have zero intention of ever being a hiker. But I love your conversations with people. I’ll keep watching every hiking convo even tho I’m gonna be honest I don’t even want to go outside let alone hike the AT.

@WoodAllTrails 3 месяца назад

I do outdoor enthusiast videos... bring those people that love outdoor activities besides backpacking. Homesteading, Backpacking, Kayaking, camping, etc. Bring those other people that enjoy doing outdoor activities and have never seen backpacking. Also, I've learned that videos over 10 minutes will not attract viewers who are on the cusp of getting into something.

@lucy_orangina 3 месяца назад

Just starting watching, this video just pop up on my screen like answer on my question WHY? Im so done with pleasing youtube algorithm and what people want, just to get their attention longer than 30s of my video. I starting making channel way I want, as I dont work for anyone on RU-vid , and never desired monetise it. I just wanted to inspire people , bring them to my art and cos I love filming. I choosed hiking niche but you cant open another cake shop on street where is already 20 cake shops. So i decided not do reviews, guides or silent cinematic film, I dont like copy someone else style or putting fake rain on thumbnail, scary life surviving titles. Im doing videos, self help, anxiety etc. Last year I been diagnosed with cancer and be honest i add it to my story telling inspire people on cancer. To show others we can do stuff we love despite disabilities. I did hope that people will get inspired but looks like more drama like I survived storm in my ten is more meaningful. If i make 1 minute video they leave after 30 sec...if i make 30 sec video they leave after 10 second. So im starting to think about myself Im then really bad creator 😢.. going to finish watching as Im curious on this topic and your opinion. New subs. Watched already couple videos and love it..thank you. Lucy

@EricSpriggs 3 месяца назад

Hey Kyle, northern Utah native here. I think You will absolutely love the outdoor scene here. Fell free to hit me up if you need anything.😁

@WoodAllTrails 3 месяца назад

Phone plus gimball has taken my videos to another level. Also, just got an action camera to give a 1st person view too. As I have created more conetent I've learned what I like in videos from creators like you and Sintax and how do I make mine like those with my own spin. I'm still learning but hopefully one day will be on the upper level of creators.

@DryBonesOutdoors 3 месяца назад

plus if you wanna know what has been the biggest influence in the direction that most gear videos have went..,Think Media

@nicholaslafferty3928 3 месяца назад

One thing I look for in videos is information. Often its about good gear and its application for different conditions. Or great places. What there is not enough of is the detailed techniques for hiking places like steep Adirondack trails or flooded trails like how you did on the NPT. People might be interested in going from beginner to intermediate and might need guidance with that process. Another thing that would interest me is the connecting of history with the places hiked and knowledge about things like the geology and the plantlife, how wind and sun effect the landscape. I know its a hard ask, but those are the some ideas for videos.

@Golddragon214 3 месяца назад

I made vids for a while. Went to the same places others went to and talked about the same old things. I had one vid where I videoed a Fawn walking right up to me. It had a good set of views. But I was hit with copy write infringement for the music I used years later. I eventually pulled all of my vids. But Ive seen the AT, PCT and CDT so many times I Know what they all look like and where all the places are to stay, pick up packages and the like. Like discussed in this Podcast, you can show how to pitch a tent, set up a hammock so many ways and then it gets old. Show all the different food choices and say they are so good when they are just like the others and show the places looking like the others. Most people want more, more excitement and action, drama. You've started going in a different direction showing stories and telling stories that make people aware of being prepared and planning can make the experience so much better than just going out and calling 911 because you were a dumbass and didnt bring shelter or a headlamp. This is were we as a community need to work harder helping those with little or no expireance learn before they get hurt of killed. This discussion makes me happy that creators are all thinking the same and trying to do more.

@shea4615 3 месяца назад

This convo is an interesting one as a non-YTr. I get that we live in a society that promotes constant growth and there's nothing wrong with always trying to be better. However, all I hear when creators have these kind of discussions is, I want/need more viewers which = more money and I just don't love that aspect. I prefer to sub / support smaller channels. Don't get me wrong I still watch huge channels but I think hard before subbing.

@jasonmcclennan6443 3 месяца назад

Dude you need a side story above the why, I just went through this with improving my journals, ( not a RU-vid creator ) it was actually adam scholts who inspired it. I try to include a touch of deeper information ... for example : I hiked to the foundation of the house that had burnt. Vs. Following the hike to the foundation standing somber by itself rich with the history of previous visitations , this particular foundation was once the home visited by Laura second as she delivered the message of the pending attack from our American neighbour's. If not for her success the fate of Canada surely would have had a much different outcome. It's basically including a touch of backstory to my current experience. Just adds another level to the story to entertain those who don't really care if you walked on the trail in a forest ... personal opinion.

@Out_GalliVANtin 3 месяца назад

I was at Arches last week, and it is gorgeous!!! I’d never been to Utah either, and I’m so glad I went!

@the_average_backpacker 3 месяца назад

I agree with Kyle on people watching gear videos because they're fascinated with gear. But also agree that half the time I'm shopping for gear and need use perspectives.

@phillipp1399 3 месяца назад

I stuck with Kyle’s channel for useful and truthful content wrapped in irreverent humor and lightheartedness. Basically all personality. New mystery content my thing, but I totally get why it’s happening and I watch some. Don’t need to solve the creativity problem for every channel, just Kyle’s lol. Just keep the personality and explore what’s interesting to you. Remember to have fun. Worry little about holding eyes, focus on gaining eyes. And having fun.

@bushcrafters3909 3 месяца назад

xander budnick and outdoor boys actually go out and do something instead of just talking about it. A fresher idea is to build a 1970s kit and hike with it. 1880 kit ;pick a time frame and go with it.

@patricksimoneau7647 2 месяца назад

Kyle: this whole episode is just going off Luke: TehEEE 😂

@DryBonesOutdoors 3 месяца назад

Plus those channels that I use to love to watch when I first got into backpacking it seems like now I've kind of outgrown them. It's sorta like my knowledge of gear is at a point that I don't need those videos anymore. I do however like how Justin was interviewing different people from some of our favorite gear companies.

@joeclark3149 3 месяца назад

Ideas for your channel Kyle I watched a video in woodworking where someone highlighted top five videos of woodworkers that no one watches but should. I checked out a couple videos and they were unorthodox but really entertaining. I agree the more you watch on a subject the more stale it can get.. seems to be the same for almost everything. You said something different. How about backpacker meets teardropper. I.e. Drew Playing with Sticks. How teardrops and overlanders and backpacking can overlap and enrich. I am taking a month off to backpack southern Oregon only 130 miles. I will be there to wagon train and my friend and dog will be rendezvousing with me every day or every couple of days. I plan to hike too but away from the camper and fish and do some tent and hammock camping too. We will be on mostly fire roads. But my day hikes could take me anywhere. The reason we fell in to this was logistics regarding placing food caches along the route. I think the natural form of progression is to grow check out escapod teardrops etc. there are certain teardrops geared for getting you to places to mountain bike backpack etc. If you go out of your comfort zone with subjects you are not familiar with you will grow as an interviewer which I think is your destiny.

@shea4615 3 месяца назад

Can you share the woodworking video? Just getting into it and would love to check them out.

@Casual_BackPacking 3 месяца назад

This pod cast with visuals would be top tear

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

What do you mean "visuals"?

@dainasworldnumbers88 3 месяца назад

This guy looks so friendly and nice. Also like he could be a tour guide on Pirates of the Caribbean.

@luke_mckay 2 месяца назад

If the editing doesnt work out, maybe I'll look into that

@jasongoldman4977 3 месяца назад

Hiking competitions with different aspects of hiking like times/routes and camp setups/gear, unique hacks etc. judged by "celebrity hikers"....

@jacobholm5109 Месяц назад

What are you doing in SLC? I'm not too far from there

@natehikes 3 месяца назад

Small RU-vidr here 👋 a few thoughts: 1. Being a RU-vidr is like being a musician. You’re constantly being inspired by others and taking their works to spin into your own. And the learning curve is VERY similar. You suck at the beginning. That’s where I’m at. 2. The most successful inventions have been reiterations of existing products. Meaning the next RU-vidr who will blow up in this niche will do something similar to what we’re seeing. I do believe Steven is the closest we have to this. Oh and Kyle obviously 🤪

@alannansel1823 3 месяца назад

There is interest in "reality TV". Hearing people in the midst of the challenge, In the midst of the game. Hearing some hiker trash. Dan's story on the grizzled attack, taking the kid backpacking the first time or the guy struck by lightening.

@Casual_BackPacking 3 месяца назад

Dan becker thumbnails are AI dan becker lmao 😂😂😂😂 i cant even click his stuff now

@TakerToken 3 месяца назад

As I was building my backpacking gear, the gear reviews were very helpful but then you soon realize that gear reviews are pretty much all backpacking channels do. I also refuse to watch any more videos that feature durston x-mid tents. Jesus Christ, those are annoying.

@highlonesome-coloradobluegrass 3 месяца назад

Dig it!

@RedBellyRiverRat 3 месяца назад

I wanna watch 2 dudes in a room talking into microphones. That's all. Gear review, schmear reviews. Tips and Tricks? No! Bear attack survival stories?...NO!!! I can go backpacking on my own. When I watch Backpacking RU-vid, it needs to be 2-3 guys in a room, talking into a microphone, nothing else.

@billthepigefant5368 3 месяца назад

Utah can’t wait to have you! Gonna be doing any skiing?

@trailtalespod 3 месяца назад

oh you know it

@rodoutdoors 3 месяца назад

My fishing videos do a lot better for me but I still love backpacking more and want that to work. I simply enjoy the whole video creation process. Editing is fun. So I'll just keep doing what I like. Long trip videos are my jam. I know gear videos do a lot better, but I don't really care to do those. Tbh, I just don't really care to blow up big. Just taking it slow.

@JerryArizona 3 месяца назад

I feel like there's only so much of an audience for backpacking and hiking. Your core is people who want to hike a particular trail, which is limited. Personality can grow the audience if you can get people to tune in for the person instead of just the trail. That's easier said than done though. I think that's why gear review is so much more lucrative; everybody who hikes needs gear. Doesn't matter where they're hiking. Kraig Adams can grow a huge audience because he makes ambient, almost ASMR style videos. People who like to hike can watch them, but so can people who love good scenery or just want something mellow on in the background while they study. But those videos are a lot harder to make than it looks on the surface. And not everyone can travel to all the places he goes to (much less with the skill to shoot and edit as well as he does.) You've definitely tapped a whole new audience with the crime/mystery vids. How can you grow a backpacking channel in the same way? I just don't know if it's possible. It's funny and it's sad. Seems most of the larger gear reviewers would rather make trip/hiking videos, but they know they just don't get the views. If you ever figure out that formula, I'd love to know. But I think it just is what it is.

@wagstaffmedia 3 месяца назад

I think there is a big difference in the "cinematography" of thru-hiking videos and just backpacking videos. And I think there is a genre difference in "gear channels" and backpacking channels - and the people that watch them are inherently different

@luke_mckay 3 месяца назад

There's definitely overlap though. Lots of popular backpacking/thru hiking channels also do gear videos because it makes sense, and is value added to their "brand"

@wagstaffmedia 3 месяца назад

@@luke_mckay For sure lots of overlap. I notice a bit of a difference in styles of gear videos though, some are "review driven" with the video only being about gear and others are just using gear on a hike and happen to talk about it (which I think is more interesting)

@eddymurray4792 Месяц назад

Miranda is the best gosh darn!

@musingwithreba9667 3 месяца назад

Someone (kindbof new) I've been watching this season on the AT is Derrek Cullen. He's from Ireland, and his videos are amazing. He knows how to tell a story. And the visuals that go with it are masterfully edited. I got real tired of all the RU-vidrs who went full time and then mostly just post gear videos. Or gear videos from "the trail", but they don't actually show their adventures on trail. BORING!

@HeidiSue60 3 месяца назад

Utah! Are you doing a meet and greet? I might come to that. As for my hiker watching it's you and Desert Drifter.

@wallytaggart2612 3 месяца назад

maybe include other things to do beside crush miles in the lightest most expensive gear...build a fire and show it (a silky saw 180 and mora bushcraft black knife together are a bout a pound - maybe cut back on the $1K 4 lb sleep system), bring a steak or actual food for the first day. Enjoy the fruits of your labor. Show that it's ok to enjoy the outdoors and the campsite after a hard day or not so hard day of hiking. Bring a light weight tarp hiking for inclement weather so your not trapped in tent after hiking. the backpacking niche issue is it's all, generally) catering to thru-hikers and section hikers with plenty of expendable cash flow on hand. just saying

@wallytaggart2612 3 месяца назад

oh yeah, I'm at work so I'm hardly listening...so if you've covered that...well done!

@harduphiker 3 месяца назад

The state of NORTH AMERICAN Backpacking RU-vid you mean? ;-) It's in rude health here in the UK, from stealth and urban camping and hiking...we focus less on gear, and more of the journey. That's why Hiking US YT is a little stale, because they keep copying each other and following the same trails, reviewing the same gear, etc....here it's illegal to camp almost anywhere apart from Scotland or Dartmoor...so we automatically have that dramatic aspect, and most of the US and Chinese gear companies ignore us, so we have to DIY and don't usually get the sponsorship megabucks, so it tends to be different and more creative. Sure there's always deja vu when a big piece of gear drops or some of the same things (I just hiked the West Highland Way, to find that two other bigger UK YTers are doing ir or done it - but I then I went onto do the Great Glen Way - a 170 mile thru hike in total - which they didn't!)

@lizbet1063 3 месяца назад

Why don't you combine the two? Backpacking and crime? Like backpack to an interesting or mysterious/weird place? Something like that maybe 🤔 😊

@ptroy72blue Месяц назад

Step Brothers.... lol .... do you wash your socks? NO! Me too!

@iceman857 3 месяца назад

I don't know that I've seen a RU-vid channel that rolls this way or has this focus, but what about something that does "how would you approach this?" kind of content? When I have done wilderness first aid classes, they took us out into the wilderness and "simulated" injuries. We had to follow our protocols and show them how we would approach that scenario. This type of content could be very expansive, for example, with situations that people submit somehow? Like, "how do I choose a campsite that won't make me wake up to condensation?" or, "What do I say to someone who has a Bluetooth speaker blaring?" The only similar channel I know of that is a completely different topic is called "How do I say that?" ru-vid.com/group/PLq6xHLjpckweKfwcqt2Iaj7ysDdHFzHvN

@Casual_BackPacking 3 месяца назад

We do it because we can , and no bears gonna stop us 😤, the world cant stop us either

@ArcaneSpells 3 месяца назад

Was that a hint at a Kyle Hates Hiking PCT movie ?

@spaceshipdms Месяц назад

camping wiith steve probably reaches more people than any backpacker. The whole advanced recreational outdoor backpacking scene is too specialized on the internet, too niche, it alienates most people. Normies don't care about FTKs, big hikes, triple crowns, etc. You want to break the ceiling? make backpacking videos attractive to normies that don't go backpacking and don't want to. You have to take a risk and do something that you think people won't click on. If it's already established content, a bunch of people are already doing it. If you want to break out then you need to take risks. This is the way. If you want to earn a steady paycheck you streamers could get normal jobs too.

@michaelseymour7211 3 месяца назад

I hate "audio only" I get board as all get out.

@matt67524 3 месяца назад

Ok so… Am I the only one that thinks Miranda is a bit much. I really enjoyed some of Kyle’s real hiking videos like the Northville Placid Trail. I have had enough of the Mystery stuff but they are obviously making bank. Congrats Kyle. Oh, I thought I was lost on my last day hike but then I realized I wasn’t. Want to make a video? Exped Ultra pads are so underrated and left out by almost every “backpacking” channel. Can we see hikes on other trails besides the AT,PCT and CDT. Maybe like stuff that most people can do in a couple weeks. And not just stuff on the west coast, we get it the views are great and there is like a billion other hikers on the same trail. I don’t care about cinematic views. I would like to see real hikes where people fall and bust their as s like I do at least every other day. I like Trail Tails. If I could only get my base weight down to 9.5lbs rather than 11…. Then I could hike so much faster. That video Darwin did about the xmid being to complex because it uses two trekking poles… Im like damn your right, the complexity of that is just to crazy. What was Dan thinking!?!?! Gear videos are getting a bit….

@RainerGolden 3 месяца назад

As Miranda's producer and business partner I agree she is a bit much 😂

@MirandaGoesOutside 3 месяца назад

As Miranda, you are definitely not the only one who thinks so 😅

@JustinOutdoors 3 месяца назад

As someone who has met Miranda but not her producer and business partner but likes going deep on comments, I still unsure

@jektrek 3 месяца назад

I like Trail Tales but don’t watch the mystery videos. I enjoyed the gear videos for a long time, but they have all gotten pretty generic. Same equipment and most are company sponsored. I follow 4-7 thru hikers every season. 2-3 pct and 4 At.

@Casual_BackPacking 3 месяца назад

Do AT podcast 😅

@Gunga-ct9nz 3 месяца назад

The video in which the person gets caught in a huge snow storm and is forced to build a shelter and fire to survive then transitions to them eating a nice big enjoyable meal and settling down to sleep while their loyal dog dozes next to the shelter entrance always gets many millions of views. No talking just light neutral back ground music. Do that.