What Bugs You the Most? Insect Repellents and Other Stories 

Catching the beaver slapping it's tail on film ----awesome

Who had tear in their eye when slim was telling his story thanks slin

Some people don't understand how someone could go out into the wilderness and not be bored, however I can't understand how someone could be bored in the wilderness. So peaceful.

Love how you change up the content. Never know what to expect with you. You cover all things that campers deal with. I love it

I'm sorry your mom was like that. I'm sure it was long, hard work but I'm glad you've found peace with water.

I love the authenticity that you radiate, thank you for sharing your life with us.

Slim, thank you so much for the vulnerability you shared with us in this video. It is through sharing stories as painful as these that we can come together as human beings and understand trauma. You are an incredible person and I truly appreciate your photography, wit and adventures. Keep up the amazing work and we'll keep following along :)

Because you are alone isn't the same as feeling lonely. You can feel lonely even in big city ! Many are afraid of being alone because of their own thoughts.

We all have our personal issues that are holding us back and/or keeping us down. Overcoming them is a vital step on the path to happiness.

Wow. That was a terrible thing your mother did. I’m sorry you had to endure that. Bless your heart, you’ve turned out great.

I love the thought of a hamster wearing that lil outfit

Slim, thank you for some of the best camping adventure videos on the tube. Never boring. Always entertaining and informative. Your love of nature, solitude, humble and honest travels have us coming back every evening for the next Slim Potatohead adventure. Sad to say we have seen every one of your videos and now wait for the next video to post. In the meantime we've been watching Morton's on the Move -the Go North adventure thru Canada and Alaska. Other than that....we patiently await another episode from our favorite Canadian, Slim Potatohead.

Hat off----- taking swim lessons and overcoming your fear for the love of others! My brother good stuff

Slim you never cease to amaze me. I love the fact that you shared a bit of your past no matter how painful it might’ve been. I hope you continue to do that. You bring a lot to those of us who look forward to your videos and you are very appreciated!

I love solitude. I've never had a fear of being alone. It's funny but some of my loneliest times have been 'with' people. As a kid I lived on the edge of the city, I would go for walks/hikes just to be alone. Loved sitting by myself, next to the creek near home. There's a vast difference between alone and lonely.

The shot of the lake and stars at the end made the entire video worth watching. Thanks Slim

Thanks for sharing your "phobia" of water. It was good to learn more about you. Safe travels. Stay well.

I will never think of DIY the same way again. 😂😂😂

Brave video. Anytime someone talks about their fears (past or present) they can feel exposed. I loved my mom and dad very much. I have a memory of something occurring which was not pleasant, and I just accept it as the past. Each generation is treated very differently, but it usually comes from immense love and trying to do what they/we think is the right thing to do. So glad you over came your fear, and share your experiences with all of us. I am glad you shared your favorite, it is an endorsement I trust...

A rare glimpse into the before youtube slim. Love getting to know these things. The odd part about RU-vid. Slim is a weekly part of my family. He tells us story's once a week and he wouldn't know me from adam if we met. Funny my wife and i where just talking about loving winter camping and camping in the rain. Sometimes the alone. The tranquility is exactly what you need. As slim said something nothing is the best thing to have to do. Wise words.

lol, Me thinking. “ I have never seen a beaver splat it’s tail”! Me thinking again, “You still haven’t you fool, this is a video”. So this is really a testament to how well you bring us into the moment. Keep up the good work.

I am so sorry that you had to experience that as a child; I am glad that you found a way to overcome your fear and use it to help yourself💜🌻

I like your DIY/fabrication videos the most, but the calm and tranquility of this video during this stressful time was greatly appreciated. Also, thanks for having the courage to discuss your phobia and for the Thermocell test.

Thank you for opening up to us about yourself. We all have our phobias and we have to deal with them on a daily basis. Yes deep woods with deet is all I use .

I love the way you think, distraction along with preparing yourself in advance..very beautiful..waiting happily from video to video

"French flies" :)

Slim, thank you for sharing something so personal. I'm glad you were able to get over your fear. Hope to see some wintertime adventures soon! Take care and stay safe.

Slim.....the last shot was magnificent. A perfect example of why those of us who camp do so.....the awesome night views. Ty

Slim, I had to pause the vid around 17:13 just to say “THANK YOU” for sharing the story of your overcoming your water phobia. I have very often thought that many a Chamber of Commerce ought to thank you and put you on their payroll for your enticing, winsome and compelling profiles of SO many interesting-though-(sometimes)--out-of-the-way places… and now I believe there will likewise be many otherwise hesitant individuals who will be encouraged and emboldened by your invitation to overcome whatever their fears may be, in order to get out to savor and enjoy wild spaces. I’ve commented multiple times that I deeply appreciate your photography, cinematography, poetic narration, humor, and mechanical skill & ingenuity, so I’ll just say now that I pray you continued peace, enjoyment, safety, and creative pleasure! 🤗💐💐💐

I'm with you, Mr Slim. I work in customer service, where I have to talk to people on the phone all day long, and so when I go to the woods I seek out places with no cell service and as few people as I can find. Peace and quiet, and beavers and moose, are necessary and priceless.

Impressed that you have worked past your phobia in order to strengthen yourself and enable you to help others should the situation arise. Your soft spoken words in regards to your mother reveals how very far you have progressed on your faith journey in this life. We can learn from your example.

Slim, for many of us, our moms were not perfect people. Or our grandmothers for that matter. Which sometimes gives us an insight into some of moms behavior. And yet we just work to not to pass it on. That's all you an do. Thank you for this video. Thank you for the honesty.

I get it and appreciate the beautiful surroundings! Love the beaver, dragonflies and peace! Thanks for sharing your experiences and stories!

Learned a lot more than which insect repellent to use, but I personally like the Repel with plant based lemon eucalyptus 🍻

Strength and honour with the water , well done slim .

Thank you Slim, another great video! Beautiful scenery, great tips on keeping the blood suckers away, and courageous reflection on overcoming your fear. I think that many of us avoid experiences that could bring us great joy and peace because of an underlying fear. As you allude to, for many, these fears sadly keep them away from the outdoors. I'm so happy for you that you are able to now sit peacefully on that dock.

I didn’t expect to get teared up, Slim. Glad you worked through your fear of water.

That night sky at the end.... WOW. Top video. Thanks.

Way to go Slim thank you for sharing something personal that had happened to you with addressing you’re fears for water... if there’s a will there’s a way of getting through something! 👍

Such wisdom, Slim. Loved the footage...all of it, but especially the beaver clip. A M A Z I N G, kind sir. Safe & extraordinary travels, Slim.

That was interesting, especially since Deep Woods Off is usually all I carry, but the outro photograph of the evening sky over the lake was just beautiful. That was the best part of the video, for me.

Love your story about learning to swim to overcome your water phobia to be able to save a kid if you needed to :) You have a huge heart.

That Milky Way shot at the end was AWESOME!!

I spray my clothes (shirt, pants, socks, hat) with Permethrin every 6 weeks (during summer), and only rarely do I get bit by a skeeter. The stuff really works and it's not harmful to humans. It's odorless and doesn't stain your clothes. You can get it on Amazon or at Walmart.

Thanks for sharing your story, Slim. I absolutely love just going out into the woods, sitting still, and just *being.* I hope to get to do that more often next year.

In Canada, when the mosquitoes bite, do they say sorry?😄😄😄 (🇺🇸sorry🇨🇦) Thanks for posting this video. 👍

Many years ago in my youth, I was taught to swim by a bunch a bigger kids who threw me into a river. I learned in a very few seconds. It was a cruel thing to do, but I prevailed. I'm glad you overcame your phobia. I just found your channel as my wife and I are nearing retirement and have visited a number a US national parks, but we'd like to camp rather than hotel...but with just a bit a comfort. I'm looking for a small used camper like yours.

Camping with Steve swears by that thing, but he has found those spiral wick things you light works just as good with no waiting and way less expensive.

We live in Nebraska, and we always tend to gravitate towards the mountains for our wilderness trips. (About 8hours to where we wilderness camp) the awesome the sounds of nature which most people can't hear, or see the forest for the trees. This year we went to Minnesota for something different, and ended up in the Superior National Forest for Rustic, Wilderness, Free Camping... We never saw another human for 4 days at one spot... just the sounds of nature, the sounds void of humans, you either get it or you don't. love your videos.

God bless the mothers who used fear to keep children in line. I believe they do it because they are afraid of failing as mothers. But they don’t realize what they are doing. My parents grew up in the Great Depression era and in the mountains far from cities. I’m sure that had a huge influence in how they learned to parent. Both of my parents were lucky to have achieved the 8th grade and by moving away from the mountains, were able to be successful in life. I was born with a bad family gene that affected my vision. My mother kept me from doing anything too far from her for fear I would hurt myself. After 3 surgeries and 3 years of intense vision training and new glasses every month, my eyes attained about the best vision they were ever going to get. But from age 5 until she died when I was was 20, she constantly reminded me of what I couldn’t and shouldn’t do because I might break my glasses and destroy what I had spent years achieving. Fortunately, I didn’t hurt my eyes by breaking any of the 100’s of pairs of glasses bought for me. But, unfortunately, I also learn no self assurance, no self achievement, had zero self confidence and much fear of doing anything. After she died, I was horrified by the world of things I had to learn about and do for myself. 15 years later, step by tiny step, I discovered how I could do for myself. Self confidence grew. I took a huge step when I was 35 and went to school to be an EMT and joined a rescue squad where I learned all the self assurance and self confidence I would ever need by helping the sick and injured out there. I had 2 children and I never once told them they couldn’t achieve anything. They developed their own fears from their own actions and learned, thru mothers love and guidance, to over came them by trying to do things and succeeding. Today I am nearly 67 years old. I kept jobs successfully and retired. I’m building out an ambulance as a camper. Next summer I’ll be camping. Although I still have some fear of the dark and driving in strange places, I am confident I will figure it out and succeed. Thanks for sharing Slim. You helped feed my confidence so I can head out next summer.

What I have found effective is to take an anti-histamine (anti-allergy) tablet each day for about 14 days before you wish to travel and continue taking it while you are still in mosquito country. It does not stop them biting you but it stops you getting a reaction to the bites. No bumps or lumps and more importantly no itching at all. Might not work for everyone but it is 100% effective for me.

Wow! Great shot of the beaver. Wonderful.

SP has really been generous about himself in this wonderfully shot and edited video. We all should appreciate SP being so candid about his life and times.

As a child and a adult one of my favorite things to do is climb high up in a pine tree and quietly sit their and listen to the breeze blowing through the trees , it is like hearing and feeling the earth living and being and being a part of it.

You make fantastic videos Slim. That was a great review on the Thermacell. I have used it in the past and found it wanting but I have some friends that still hunt and swear by them. For me,just like you,Deep Woods is the best even if it stinks everything up. Really enjoyed you sitting on the dock by the lake and recalling how you gained a phobia of water and eventually overcame it and why. What I took away from that recollection the most is how you didn't begrudge your mother and had forgiveness in your heart. Being an adult we realize(Hopefully)that our parents were never perfect and just tried to do the best they could with what they had at the time. Some never get it but you certainly do and it was refreshing to see. Learning to swim because you might encounter a situation where it might be needed to help someone else or even yourself touched my heart. I don't think I would get lonely,like you nature is my church,my Zen,though I have to admit I'm scared of bear,especially when I can't see them. Keep making these videos Slim,many of us are watching and loving them.

I relaxed just watching this video. Thank you. I'm glad got over your fear of water.

As I nosh on what has come to be called the Slim Special (grilled cheese done with mayonnaise and mustard) I enjoyed the info on the thermacell as well as the reflection on solitude and silence. It also reminded me of the entertaining Shugemery video on bugs. Nice to remember warmer weather for sure. The joy you share with us is much appreciated.

Absolutely love my Thermacell. It is critical the pad isnt used up to be effective and usually takes 5 minutes not 30 to start smoking. Have sat within its protective vapor circle and listened to thousands of mosquitos buzzing outside this circle. If breeze blows the mosquitos are usually not bad anyway but when you slow down and it is still....life saver. I hate chemical or scent on my skin. I commend you for facing that fear head on and making it a strength. As much time as you spend around water bodies, you never know who you may have to save including yourself...great job and video.

what a beautiful shot to end with...thank you

These types of places are perfect for me although hubby hates not having something to do ALL the time. He thinks I'm crazy because I just love to sit and watch and take all the natural things around me in. I even lay on the lawn in the backyard and love watching the ants at work. I am sorry that your mother put the fear of water into you but I'm glad that you took the steps to learn to swim and overcome your fear. Well done. Keep enjoying life and enjoying nature.

I have had excellent results with Permethrin treated clothes. Columbia makes a version called Insect Blocker. You can also buy permethrin and treat your own clothes. Sawyer is a brand that the Appalachian Trail hikers use. On my skin I use Lemongrass Oil based repellent and that works great for me. Thanks for all the great videos, Slim!

awesome wilderness shots, Slim... loved the beaver and bear footage.

It was not selfish. You had a great fear. You sir, conquered your fear! It doesn't matter how long it took, you did it! One is never too old to overcome one's fear. One becomes stronger and more able to cope with other things in their lives. Good for you.

love your adventures and videos..Stay safe and healthy .

It is a shame that parenting does not come with a manual. I too had to get over my childhood. I like being alone. I am not lonely. I like not having the negativity that most people seem to carry with them. I can always find the positive in any situation. My tolerance for peoples foolishness has dulled at best. I feel that facing your fears is a sign of character, or growth. I do not watch a lot of nomadic minded youtubers but the ones I do watch i pray for. Thank you for sharing your beautiful views.

My father grew up in the North Woods of Maine. He used Deep Woods too. He called it "Bug Dope" LOL. When we went up to the North Woods for our 2 week vacations (and to visit family-we had moved to MA by that point) he would still wear long sleeve shirts with button up collars when we went fishing in July in Aroostook County. Up there you have to deal with mosquitos, "Moose flies" (Aka "Horse Flies") and the dreaded black flies.

Thanks Slim....nice out there...

I prefer the Deeps Woods Off options also. I usually apply it to a light cotton long sleeve shirt that I wear when out in the garden or cutting the lawn, rather than applying it directly to my skin. Thanks for reviewing the options. The Thermacell seems like a great option for when you are sitting on the deck in the evening to keep the mosquitoes away.

I loved this video! Sad about what your mom did to you but good that you were able to overcome your fear. Your videos are all fantastic to me. This one was beautiful.

Ali I love your videos . You always give me a good needed chuckle . THANK You .

Thx Slim enjoyable video , love the scenery so peaceful 😊💕🙏💕

I’ve always liked sitting by a lake or river. The time just slips away and before you know it hours have gone by. I talk to God a lot in these settings. John the Baptist lived and taught in the wilderness. As long as I have shelter, water and a bit of food. Paradise! Love your videos Slim. When restrictions are lifted...can hardly wait

You have such a calming way about you and your voice is tranquil. I’ve watched all your videos and really enjoy your perspective, insights and how to’s - w candidness and forethought...thank you!

Thank you, Slim, not so much for the mosquito content but for your honest and candid sharing of your journey with and out of fear! Wow! You inspired me! Blessings !

Wow.. Thanks for sharing Slim that part about your fear and self.. Sometimes I think it helps people have a better understanding on why we love doing certain things that others can not seem to bring themselves to do or understand how we do them.. So it helps explain a little bit, so maybe we aren't over whelm with loads of ?'s.. Thanks for all your hard work on making these videos... I love them! I have learned a lot and also to see such beauty that you have shown us through your lens has been amazing.... :)

I liked that video very much. You thoughts about tranquility, wilderness and true relaxation are much more interesting than the bug repellant thingy.

😂 I loved the end. I’m such a natural products type of gal, but that is what I stock in my camper too! It just works when you need it. You didn’t just survive the treatment that caused your phobias. You are thriving in spite of it. Learning, growing, achieving, so much is attitude and how you CHOOSE to see the things that make you stronger. A joyful heart is a resilient heart, well done. Mommas just do the best they can sometimes. Maybe they come from an even uglier place than we know. 🤗☺️

I never bought the electronic repellent because I never knew anyone that had one. Your video gave me insight on what to do next, Thanks. Always enjoy watching you. GOOD LUCK OUT THERE.

We have 3 thermacells that we set in a triangle around our campsite where we will be sitting and it works quite well.

Another lovely video!! I have been watching by candle light, with my laptop charging my phone, which was providing the laptop with a wi-fi connection to 4G. A 1st December power cut, which was fortunately short-lived, as it was getting cool in here! Thanks for sharing Slim, as you're a 'must watch' channel in my books!!

Serene reflection. Pleasing observations. Thanks for the product review. Tragic phobia story, brought about by erroneous parental disciplines. Be well, safe travels.

A VERY touching video. I am so happy for you sweetheart! Great video🤗

Wow. That was a deep story and thanks for sharing. I love your words and story and have used out in the wood if I’m alone which was my fear of what could happen get lost. So I have been doing more solo camping in the woods and get away from the city. Glad you are doing well and can’t wait to see more videos.

I am sorry that you had to go through that experience. So glad you have found your way through it.

Even though it’s been an eventful year world wide , many thanks Slim for still taking us on your travels, entertaining us 👍. Have a good Christmas and New Year.. from a subscriber from Land down under

I have no problem being alone as a matter of fact I love it. Oh how I miss the woods and mountains with all the lovely lakes. For me its OFF deep woods.

That parting shot was amazing. I stopped at Snakehead lake one evening on Vancouver Island and saw a very similar view but comet Hale-Bopp was above it and reflected in the water.

Good start to the day! Hi from Saskatoon Slim!!

It takes a strong man to reveal his fears,bless you and thanks for sharing the solution

Slim always has the best camera quality

Reach, through, row, go. In that order when it comes to water rescue. Good on you to over come a fear of water in crowds. Deep woods off and Permethrin on head nets and breathable top of the bivy bag.. Thank you for taking one for the team, and testing out the misquote repellents. As always great video. Safe travels.

Good morning Slim! I like the Deep Woods also and I enjoyed this video. Good talk about the fears and phobias. But, every time you came back to the camper, I kept thinking you would show us what is in that hole‼️

I love your videos and you're living the life that I need to live I'm so stressed I got to get out I'm so so stressed but I enjoyed your video thank you so much

What fails it for me is the fact they deliberately chose to use fuel canisters that you have to buy from them instead of rechargeable battery. Now you have to buy the pads AND fuel to heat up the pad.

Permethrin (for clothing) and Picaridin (for skin) works very well against not only mosquitos, but also ticks. This is part of what I teach in Wilderness Medicine courses.

I love some simple giant Citronella candles. My family and I always put out 2-4 of them for big outdoor parties, and we all stay near perfectly unbitten. They don't smell bad, they start working fairly quickly - and you can always start them early, and they're pretty safe in the big metal cans.

Beautiful Spirit...one with nature Very nice shots of the small things many never really appreciate in creation

Positive ions. Just simply BEING outside is enough. I’m so happy that millions of people like sporting events and such. It helps insure more serenity for me when I’m outside like you. I’m GLAD there are those who don’t get it. I’m not greedy, I’ll share with those who appreciate it, but I’d rather not share with those irreverent souls who do NOT appreciate it. BTW, MY dear mother always made me swim, even in the kiddie pool, with a life jacket. I too have a similar problem with water. I too have managed it. We have to always remember that everyone always does the best they can - even your and my mothers.🙂

🙏 Heading for the mtn’s from Ontario

Great photograph at the end of your video. 👌