I want to know…for those of you who have been backpacking for a while, what is the one piece of advice you’d give to a beginner backpacker? New to backpacking? What questions do you have about getting started with backpacking? Tell me in the comments below.
@@ralphjesseman6562 I agree. Having the right footwear is so incredibly important. I wish I would've known this when I first started hiking and backpacking. I could've saved myself A LOT of unnecessary pain and discomfort. When you're comfortable, you're more likely to have much more fun on your trip.
All good advice. I would recommend keeping a journal, what you eat, how much water you use per day, how far you traveled, how long to set up and takedown your camp, what equipment you took and didnot use.
I don't know why I'm addicted to this channel. I'm old, fat, disabled and agoraphobic. I don't intend on backpacking ever. Yet somehow this channel fills me with comfort and joy.
im bingeing all of your videos as im planning my very first solo overnight backpacking trip whenever i feel like chickening out. youre honestly such a comfort for me because im so anxious about going on the road alone as a woman with anxiety. thank you!!
Hiking the PCT this year and I will attempt to eat the last meal at a location before camp. Things that I wished that I knew. Just wear my shoes through the water crossings. I don't mind wet does and my shoes quickly dry. Here in Arkansas the Ozark Highlands Trail has a TON of water crossings. Get away from Gore-Tex. I when a few years before accepting trail runners. Plan more zero days with fewer miles a day. Hikes are not fun if you are fully miserable. Get a sleeping bag or quilt that's properly rated for the expected cold...focus more on the comfort rating. I still recall that cold night.... When in comparing high end gear and can't make a choice, prioritize comfort rather than saving an ounce or two. Remember body weight is also included in weight carried and a few ounces is nothing. Be comfortable. There is no need to drop below 15 pounds and 18 pounds is a sweet spot for me. So once under 20, you are good to go.
I would tell my beginner self to get good light weight gear. I got a lot of used cheaper gear that was good but heavy. Instead of 20lbs, I was carrying 40. Just too much weight for me and not as enjoyable. After a week long backpacking trip, I started buying the lightest tent, pack and sleep system I could. I would have saved money if I would have just bought the right gear to begin with.
Good advice! Sometimes you just have to get out there on a few trips with the heavy, borrowed gear before you really know what you want and need. I know that was the case with my experience. Even after I started buying backpacking gear, I was still making gear changes with each trip I went on.
You're my new advisor for beginning backpackers! You did this for women, but there are lots of guys that need to hear your message. Thank you especially for the emphasis on 10 Essentials, footwear, and the quick mention of map and compass, these three will make or break a hike/backpack for anyone.
Awe! I love this...advisor for beginning backpackers. Hopefully someone out there can learn from my mistakes and not have to repeat them or learn the hard way.
My tip would be if you don't have a tent or shelter, start in a populated area (B&B's or hotels) and/or an area with shelters/huts and walk from shelter to shelter. Scandinavia is great for this. Use what you have. Make note of what you would have liked to have. My first trip was a hut-to-hut two night trip in Norway with a friend. I was working there for the summer so I had nothing with me except my backpack and shoes. My 'sleep system' was a duvet cover that I used as a liner in the beds (the huts we stayed in had beds and blankets). I had to buy rain clothes on the way there... We didn't realise not all the huts had a food store so we had to really improvise with food (who knew how many interesting meals you can make out of instant oatmeal). We had severely underestimated the terrain and were going slower than 1km per hour on average. So tip there: for your first trip(s), go a short (seeming) trip. 8km seemed like nothing on the map but I've never been so happy to arrive (after 9+ hours). The trip was epic and I'd do it all again in a heartbeat. So my nr 1 tip would be to just go!
I 100% agree!! This is a huge reason why I decided to offer weekly winter day hikes to the students of my program, The Confident Solo Female Backpacker System. Getting outside, even if it is just once a week, is so good for the mind and body.
Love this! One of the things that held me back from backpacking for so long has been a fear of making mistakes. It’s really refreshing to be reminded that everyone was a beginner once.
@@j.sargent9172 I wish that were the case. I've met a lot of amazing people in the hiking community, but I've also met plenty of people in this community who do indeed judge, both in-person and online, especially here on TH-cam.
I am new to hiking, and backpacking. I've made 37 trips this year, and I am hiking in the badlands, which is more than just rugged. Thank you for the excellent tips, I wouldn't even be aware of this type of thinking, if I didn't see this video! Thanks again. With love, and respect. Wes Sept
Thank you for your videos! I’m planning a 3 week solo backpacking trip with my dog. We will be hiking across NB, Canada. I’m super excited (a wee bit apprehensive) and looking forward the trip
One thing I like about the prebuilt first aid kit is that they often come in a very clearly labelled package. I’ve been in situations where I’ve asked a friend to grab a first aid kit from my pack, only to have them have no idea what bag/pouch it was in as they all look the same.
This is why I always choose a specific color of bag to use for my backcountry first aid kit. My previous one was a bright blue and now I use a bright red bag. It makes it so easy to know which bag is what in my pack when they each have a different, specific color.
For newbies I would advise that, other than socks, nothing needs duplication. You will get dirty and stink. Live with it. It’s part of the zen of backpacking. Bring food that you like to eat. That vegan quinoa kale meal that tastes like moistened sawdust and makes you fart a lot will ruin your day.
Some useful info in your vids, im a PNW gal myself, trying to decide my first overnight backpacking trip for this coming spring/summer. Im currently stuck between Gem Lake and Summit Lake as my choices 😆
A note on gear. There's a lot of military surplus that is under rated. I've been using my ALICE since 01, and my MOLLE II is fantastic, if a bit too big.
Military surplus is a great option to check out possible backpacking gear options. Just keep in mind, this type of gear will probably be on the heavier side. If you're looking to reduce your base weight, there are other lightweight (and cost effective) options out there.
Solo backpacking is great it's my favorite thing to do the 1st few nights may be a little creepy being alone in the woods that passes pretty quick and you can practice just solo car camping I like to bring my dog with me so it's not as solo but without him is really fun. I learned so much actually just hiking for a few days then i did watching tons of youtube videos however the knowlege gained from youtube was a great help and gives you a good foundation but there are things you just cant learn without trying like figuring out layering systems or sleep systems and getting them fully dialed in or things like food and water management as well as just getting to know how far you can hike and learning to improvise a bit if you end up hiking more or less than what you planned if you planned that much also asking the hikers you run into questions is so helpful i have yet to find a hiker that wasnt happy to share their opinions or little tricks or preferred gear choices you name it almost any hiker you ask questions will share a bit on info with you also some advise i have is start trying some 1-3 day trips 1st to dial things in as well as get some wins early to boost confidence my 1st solo trip i tried hiking across my state on the pct i made it halfway and only really got off because of fires but i had stuff i wanted to send home on day 3 and evn though nature sort of forced me to go home i felt a bit bummed that i didnt finish after the fires died off 2 months later i went i did a short 31 mile trip then went out and did another 100 mile or so trip the week after that which gave me a chance to tweak a few things get everything dialed in and it gave me a lot of confidence that hey you can do these trips and get to the end while you can jump right into a huge trip and do trial by fire and have a lot of fun i think my next attempt at doing a 2-4 week trip will go much smoother also i suggest doing practice day hikes with your backpack maybe start out with just base weight but move into a full loadout with food i failed ti do that and eas suprised how much of a difference the food made it doesnt seem like much on its own but when you add it to everything else then go up and down a mountain it can be suprising how much tougher it can be
I'm new to backpacking and I'm loving your videos! This will be my FIRST backpacking season and I'm also a fellow Washingtonian :) I didn't realize there were so many hikes in this state!
Awesome! Backpacking is so much fun!! There are a TON of places to go hiking and backpacking here in Washington, especially once all of the snow melts from winter.
Thank you for the video it was very enjoyable. I make jerky and it rehydrates well in any dish, in addition dehydrate, mushrooms, green onions, clinic, peas, carrots, broccoli, etc. Is amazing.I recently got sealable foil bags from Amazon, parmason, peanut butter, oils, butter, spices etc. On a side note on short trips I've brought baby back ribs, smoked fish, bratts etc. One trip we always talk about one of my best friends brought tortillia chips and one of my sons made nachos with 3 cheeses with taco bell sauce. I forgot to mention powdered milk. Just for fun mountain house ice cream sandwich lol, I love to offer new hikers just to see their faces. Thanks again for the video, you are great.
I am so happy and lucky to found you. Since I moved to Europe I would love to go hiking but I have no one to do it with and it feels a bit scary. This video gave me good ideas and lots of good tips. Thank you
Shoes that fit your feet and ankles, can go for miles and various terrains with you. Keep them dry, too. Nothing is worse than wearing wet boots. I wear 2 layers of thin wool socks to reduce friction. Backpack that fits you. I was miserable with my first 3 packs until my 4th, an Osprey that let more weight on hips than shoulders. Part of it was me though. I hated upper body weight train. Weak shoulders, arms, back, and core were part reason why I couldn’t stand the weight on my back. Even Osprey couldn’t spare the fatigue and pain completely. I always ended up hating backpacking at day’s and trip’s end.
You mentioned a lot of great trails. John Muir is a life long desire - at 60 - I will do it in this decade. Biggest question, which are the best trails you have been on where dogs are welcome. I like to hike with my dog. I Pacific Crest dog friendly?
Not sure. As someone who doesn't have a dog or hike with a dog, I don't seek out dog-friendly trails. In general, dogs are not allowed on trails in national parks so any of the national parks that the PCT goes through would be a no-go for bringing a dog. I do see people hiking with dogs on sections of the PCT occasionally, but you'll need to research where those areas are.
Usually at the beginning of a big trip, I don't eat as much food as I think I will. After a week and a few big miles, I start to find myself hungry. It's an adjustment period for me.
I was taught by an experienced backpacking guide. She insisted my pack not weigh more than 30 pounds. I actually bring a scale with me and weigh my pack before I lock up my car to head out on the trail. If it weighs more than 30 lbs, I take things out until It weighs 30 lbs or less. I will forever be grateful to her for instilling the principle of lightweight backpacking in me. This season, having been backpacking for about 9 years, and not getting any younger, I am upgrading some of my gear to get my pack even lighter. I don’t see myself becoming a true ultra lighter, but I am hoping my pack will weigh about 20-25 lbs after my gear upgrades.
As an experienced backpacker myself, this is the exact concept I teach my students in my online backpacking program for women. The goal isn't necessarily ultralight, but the less weight you carry, the better your body will feel and the more fun you'll have on your trip. Each season I'm always working towards getting my base weight as light as I can while still being comfortable and safe out on trail.
Haha lol I was going to my first back packing and my son was helping me. I rented a tent and back pack from REI. After my son went through my stuff and packed my bag , it weighed 32 pounds. He put it on my back and I nearly fell over backwards. Hiking up two miles wasn’t gonna happen when I could hardly climb the stairs in his house. I broke my back a few years ago. I need to be able to carry more.
Hi Your video is both empowering and informative. So appreciative to have come across it. Which has been your go to backpack for your through hiking adventures and how many liters do you recommend? All the best 😊🌻
Glad you were able to find this video helpful and inspiring! I put together a video featuring all of my favorite backpacking gear I've been using, including the pack I use. You can check out that video here: th-cam.com/video/AWkzCOimFU0/w-d-xo.html
@@TheHungryHiker Thank you!! Just started following you on Instagram and will share your site with my daughters too.. Wishing you all the best on your adventures😊
I'm hoping to do the west coast trail this year by myself. I've honestly only done day hikes. I like to challenge myself. I'm nervous, but know I can do it. If you ever want to head to Canada and hike the wct, we would love to host you
Great Video ! I agree with every point & have some additions. You WILL make mistakes so start easy and increase difficulty so that the inevitable mistakes aren't too costly while building your skills. Planning: include bail-out options in the event of injury, sickness, etc - particularly for long trails. Food: No food in tent - EVER. Rodents are the worst but while rare, it is essential to consider bear threats. Keep all SMELLABLES (toothpaste, some sunscreens, wipes, etc) with food away from sleep area. Use unscented items where possible. Assume that you WILL get wet so protect insulating items (sleeping bag, jacket, warm clothes). Include a SMALL repair kit- consider gear failures that could end your trip (broken tent pole, leaking sleeping pad, etc) then only include repairs for these instances. Don't rely on electronics when navigation is essential for safety. These tools are convenient but can easily fail. Satellite communication is essential in remote areas - but realize that help can still be several hours away. Be reasonably self-sufficient and do not get careless on the trail.
I've been hiking for awhile, my advice is don't get sucked into the gadgets and hiking gear gimmicks. I didn't come into it as a lightweight hiker and bought a bunch of useless stuff that never came out of my bag. Try to take as much advice as you can from lightweight hiker videos but make sure you're comfortable, you don't need to be ultralight. You'll be surprised how little you actually need. Also, great advice in this video, size up and also you don't need some crazy waterproof boot, your feet are guaranteed to get wet anyway. I wear altras, they dry fast and are lightweight. Socks are definitely nothing to skimp on! Happy hiking.
Heaps of great info in this video and so much of it I agree with, my only point of difference is about the water but that’s because I’m in Australia and where I hike there are rarely opportunities to refill. So your point about checking on water sources before you go and making sure the information is current is critical and in some cases could be life saving. For example, there were days on the Larapinta that I hiked out with 6L because of the conditions and a dry camp that night, which added more than a third extra weight to my pack but I finished the lot each time so every ml was needed but I was aware so it wasn’t a problem, just heavy to start. Happy trails.
The amount of water you'll carry on any trip will depend on where you plan on traveling. It's always going to be different so carry what you need and then add a little more, just in case.
That was great Kathleen! Very interesting to hear what you would have done differently starting out, and important to know too, since you are a seasoned backpacker. Hope your holidays are happy and warm - Merry Christmas!
I am just a day hiker and at 62 I don't know if I will ever get to spend the night on trail. I do love your videos though and hold onto the little niggling idea that maybe one day I too can be wilderness bound.
First of all, you're not just a day hiker. Day hiking is a big feat in itself! Maybe one day you'll finally give into the little niggling idea and give it a try. :)
I recommend finding a friend. I planned a trip for my partner and I and we invited some friends that he walks with. None had ever done an overnight and they ranged in age from 59 to 68, If you can do a day, you can do an overnight. You CAN do it!
Love this! We have been backpacking forever but new to vlogging. I love how easily you talk to the camera, you make it look so easy( I know it’s not). Any tips?
Thank you! Honestly, it just takes practice to feel comfortable talking to a camera (or at least look like I am.) Go back and check out my early videos. Pretty entertaining! The hardest part is being out in public talking to a camera and someone else sees you. I've come across other hikers out on trail while I've been talking to my camera. AWKWARD, but you get used to it. Just like Dory says, "Just keep swimming!"
Wearing hiking boots on a long trail that really didn’t need them (easy road/grass trail terrain). Killed my feet when trail runners would have been perfect. Another mistake I saw someone else do? Not staking tent in. Dude didn’t stake his tent and we had an unexpected storm blow through which we watched from a shelter and his tent blew about 100 yards into the woods. So I feel your pain on that one.
If you wait to not go alone (especially pre-internet communities), you'll never go anywhere. An issue I had as a kid, teen, and now after returning after most of my adult years with a medical issue that took a long time to figure out...seriously, I'm 34. I'm old enough to not have the same anxieties I had when I was younger. Always a research aholic though.
Exactly! If you continue to wait, you'll keep on waiting until one day you realize it might be too late to go. Do the thing now. Go while you can. The sooner you get out there, the more places you'll be able to go. This thought concept is one of the reasons why I created The Confident Solo Female Backpacker System.
I was wondering what tent you use. I've always thought I needed a 2 person tent for the same reasons you had. I've been backpacking since I was in Boy Scouts ( I'm 73 now) but have not been able to do my favorite thing for about 10 years now due to "life getting in the way." All the 2p tents are expensive and weigh 3+ pounds so I am scaling back to a 1p to save on the size and weight in my pack. I'm almost 6ft so I need a bit more length and height. I would appreciate your input. Thank you!
Going backwards in my channel binge but I do have a bit of an inquiry. As a preface, I'm planning to explore a couple of areas that are not covered by gps or have any variety of SOS system, while there are also no proper trails to follow due to this being a 3rd world country. Is there any concretely applicable advice other than "go abroad to hike", because the nature here is gorgeous and really worth enjoying.
I personally wouldn't feel comfortable going somewhere by myself where there's no GPS coverage or couldn't use my Garmin's SOS function. When trekking internationally, I'd recommend finding a local guide. Not only will you help support the local economy (tourism is often one of the number one industries in a lot of third world countries), but you'll also get a more rich experience and learn more about the area and cultural than if you were to travel it alone. In fact, Nepal put it into law in 2023, banning solo trekking, making it so that all international tourists now need to hire a local guide for their backcountry treks. I fully support this new regulation.
Love your videos! I have a question with food storage! Is everyone respectful? Like, no is gonna steal your food? This is a very random fear I have haha
Thank you! I’ve personally never had an issue with anyone out on trail trying to take my food. The only issue I’ve ever had was when two mice broke into my tent in the middle of the night, scurrying through my hair, trying to get to the snacks I had forgotten were in my tent. THIS is why I now always make sure all of my food and scented items are always stored outside and faraway from my tent. I never want to be woken up to mice running through my hair again. 🤢
Welch’s Fruit Snacks - yum. Dedicated satellite communicators will be obsolete soon - iPhone 14 has a satellite emergency beacon now, other brands will follow. Solo backpacking is liberating and surprisingly stress-free once you overcome internally-generated anxiety.
I love the mouse story! It equals the time a guy I was with checked out the sky and decided to not pitch his tent. Cue storm at 2:00 a.m. Laughed our asses off listening to him pitch in the rain!
When I was backpacking with a group as a teen in the Sierra my tent mate brought her toothpaste in the tent. We were woken up by a marmot trying to get in the tent. Nice early lesson on not keeping the food inside the tent.
Don't feel bad. Most people who leave to go on their first thru-hike usually don't know what they're doing. I know I didn't when I left to thru-hike the PCT in 2018. You'll want to plan for your trip of course, but a lot of it you'll figure it out as you go. This wasn't a whole thru-hike, but watch this video to see how I put together my resupply strategy for the 250-mile section hike of the PCT here in Washington this summer. This will give you a few ideas and resources you can use to start thinking about how you might want to put together your own resupply strategy for the PCT next year: th-cam.com/video/hqwX22n8AQ0/w-d-xo.html Good luck!
How do you plan for a hike? Permits, and that kind of thing. It seems that you have to do all this years in advance in some places. Why can't they just let you go without all that?
There are a TON of beautiful places to go backpacking that don’t require permits. I suggest getting a guidebook for the area you want to go in and research some trail possibilities that don’t require a permit. Good luck! PS: Trip planning along with all of my favorite trip planning tips & tricks are covered extensively in my online backpacking course for women, The Confident Solo Female Backpacker System www.the-hungry-hiker.com/the-confident-solo-female-backpacker-system/
Trip planning. I put my trips on the calendar and then make them a priority. If something is that important, you’ll make it happen. Otherwise, “someday” will never come.
Totally understandable. I backpack mainly here in the United States so all of my advice speaks to the experiences I've had out on trail in the places I've been to.
My biggest thing are maps. I’m terrible, trying to determine the distance train and that’s always been my biggest fear and that’s why I’ve not done a real backpacking trip. I’m afraid I can’t make it to the end. 😢
I totally get that. Navigation is a skillset I'm always having to work at and improve upon. It comes with lots and lots of practice, but don't let that hold you back from getting out there.
I would like to know more about ultralight gear . I see that on the pct you used ultralight gear but now not so much. What are the pros cons and why are you using ultralight gear or not using ultralight gear.
I’ve never been an ultralight backpacker, even when I thru-hiked the PCT. My baseweight was actually heavier when I was thru-hiking the PCT back in 2018 and 2019. 🙅♀️
@@TheHungryHiker oh okay. I'm 57. I have been hiking since highschool. Never been ultralight but my current set up I would consider semi light. I am looking to upgrade to a lighter tent. Also Im from Portland I'll be in the Olympics and cascade national parks this summer
@@chrisnorvell1631 Here's my gear list from my PCT section hike I did this summer, going from Snoqualmie Pass in Washington to Cascade Locks, Oregon for 250 miles in 17 days. This might give you some ideas on new gear to try: lighterpack.com/r/gcwddb Also, check out this video where I go over all of the gear I used for this trip in detail: th-cam.com/video/Cq3wzCbF_A8/w-d-xo.html Good luck!
@@TheHungryHiker thank you cause friends family are wondering why the heck do you want to do this at your age. So it's made me doubt abit. I've always loved the outdoors but my time was spent raising 3 on my own. When out in nature feel so much more connected
You said there is no stupid questions so why do through hikers I see on TH-cam do not use snow shoes? Or Gators? I do see most of them wearing Trail runners how do they keep their feet dry and warm?
Snowshoes are relatively heavy. Most summer trips have little snow so the weight penalty is not practical. Posthholing in snow does expend a lot of energy but can be manageable over short distances. Ice is a bigger threat - even short sections. Most experienced hikers will carry microspikes if ice is a safety concern. Long gaiters are rarely used except on winter outings. There are very light gaiters that just cover the tops of shoes and are primarily used to keep rocks out of shoes.
I think it all depends on the trip and the backpacker. If the backpacker is "ultralight", they might decide to go without a lot of gear that would make most of us feel comfortable out on trail in less than desirable conditions, in an effort to save on the weight they carry for their trip. In this scenario, if a backpacker views being ultralight as the priority, they will probably be hiking in wet and cold shoes and socks. The idea behind being ultralight is that with less weight, you're able to hike more miles throughout the day, which means less time out on trail. Also, depending on where the backpacker goes, snowshoes might be overkill for the conditions, but microspikes would work just fine. It all depends.
@@rockytopwrangler2069 Agreed! There's so much more to backpacking than having all of the new, cool pieces of gear. That's one of the many things I love about backpacking is that there's always something new to learn and it's not just collecting gear.
Thank you for this content! I went on my first backpacking trip this year (2022) and can’t wait to get more in next year. Your content was/is SO helpful for not only planning/logistics but helping me feel confident enough to GO. Thank you for all your hard work ❤
First piece of advice, understand what ultra light means. Because it says ultralight doesn’t mean it is. The desert section of the PCT, carry more water and less food. Sock liners can save you. If you’re going to where it’s cold get the better R value pad nothing like a cold night trying to sleep. Shoes get the shoes that work for you and know you might not know it until you have put a few miles in them. Lastly swallow your ego and your preconceived notions, there’s experts out there one should listen to, so always check out the comments and see what the people are backing up and what they’re saying is BS. And always tell someone your plan and stick with it, it might save your life.
It’s called The Confident Solo Female Backpacker System. There are LOTS of backpacking programs and systems out there designed specifically for men. This space has been traditionally male centric so I’m confident you’ll find a program that works for you and has what you’re looking for.
Know what you mean about shoes. I have used a pair of Merrell Mesa Ventilators, I think that is what they are called, for more years than I care to remember. Don"t think they are in production. Those are my three season boots. For winter, I use everything from insulated Converse military boots to Columbia Titanium Ice Warrior that are rated for, I think, -50F active. Only used them a few times. Lots of good info. Stay safe.
I agree newbies shouldn't sleep with their food. However, two of the most experienced hikers I've ever seen sleep with their food. Most triple crowners I've met sleep with their food. You have to know what you're doing. Two blogs to read "Admission: Yes, I sleep with my food" ---by Andrew Skurka "Bears The Hiking Life" --by Cam "Swami" Honan:
Just because you’re “experienced” doesn’t mean that sleeping with your food is a good idea. All it takes is one bad experience and you’ll never want to do it again.
@@TheHungryHiker Are you talking to me or Skurka and Honan? Did you read the two blogs by Skurka or Honan? Maybe post comments in their blogs about your feelings.
one thing that I seriously DISAGREE with is the part about sleeping with your food. there is NOTHING wrong with sleeping with your food. People tend to make a huge deal about it, but its really not a big deal. over 25 years, and over 16,000 miles hiked, I have always slept with my food and have never had any issues with bears or other critters messing with me. except for the deer.... the deer always want to lick me for my salt! lol. stupid deer...... hahaha.
Agree to disagree. After my experience with the mice breaking into my tent and running through my hair at 1AM, that was enough for me to never sleep with any food or scented items in my tent again. Good on you for not having a bad experience with any wildlife trying to break into your tent. I haven't been so lucky.
backpacking all alone is still dangerous, you can have an accident like falling and breaking bones, head injuries, or being attack by a wild bear, boar, bitten by a snake, or animal with rabies (and not many people are vaccinated against rabies since it it extremely costly and you need to have three shot in three months) so lots of things can happen to you. So, find people who want to travel with you and if you can't don't do long trails. Stay safe and be wise....nice video you are one smart lady.
You know what else is dangerous? Driving a car. Crossing a street. Walking alone at night in a big, crowded city. You can fall at your own house and break a bone. You can get a head injury falling in your own neighborhood. You can get attacked by animals pretty much anywhere. With anything in life, there's always a certain level of risk, especially when you leave the house. Instead of living life in fear and letting fears hold you back from doing the things you want to do, plan and prepare accordingly for the task at hand. I personally always prepare for the worse case scenario and then proceed with caution.
Exciting news!! I have a new, online Trip Planning Masterclass that I'll be launching officially at the beginning of April. Anyone subscribed to my email list will be invited to sign up for the class starting on March 15th and get a special, limited time discount, just for being on my email list. If you aren't already on there, you can sign up for my email list here and get all of the details: mailchi.mp/f595274b9ae1/the-hungry-hiker-backpacking-gear-packing-list Since I get so many questions about trip planning backpacking trips, I decided to create The Hungry Hiker Trip Planning Masterclass. The Hungry Hiker Trip Planning Masterclass will be for anyone who is overwhelmed by the trip planning process and is looking to plan their first or next overnight backpacking trip, either as a solo trip or with a group of friends. If you’re tired of talking about it and are ready to finally start planning your overnight backpacking trip this year, this masterclass will help you get to the trailhead.
I want to know…for those of you who have been backpacking for a while, what is the one piece of advice you’d give to a beginner backpacker? New to backpacking? What questions do you have about getting started with backpacking? Tell me in the comments below.
Good footwear, without that, everything else is going to fail..
@@ralphjesseman6562 I agree. Having the right footwear is so incredibly important. I wish I would've known this when I first started hiking and backpacking. I could've saved myself A LOT of unnecessary pain and discomfort. When you're comfortable, you're more likely to have much more fun on your trip.
@@TheHungryHiker so very true!!
All good advice. I would recommend keeping a journal, what you eat, how much water you use per day, how far you traveled, how long to set up and takedown your camp, what equipment you took and didnot use.
Watch the weather and plan accordingly.
I don't know why I'm addicted to this channel. I'm old, fat, disabled and agoraphobic. I don't intend on backpacking ever. Yet somehow this channel fills me with comfort and joy.
I love this so much. This comment is everything! Thanks for being here. :)
Can't imagine a better reason for you to keep on listening to this channel.
Me, too. I feel old, don't walk much, and I am worn out. Just watching gives me a mental freedom.
im bingeing all of your videos as im planning my very first solo overnight backpacking trip whenever i feel like chickening out. youre honestly such a comfort for me because im so anxious about going on the road alone as a woman with anxiety.
thank you!!
Hiking the PCT this year and I will attempt to eat the last meal at a location before camp.
Things that I wished that I knew.
Just wear my shoes through the water crossings. I don't mind wet does and my shoes quickly dry. Here in Arkansas the Ozark Highlands Trail has a TON of water crossings. Get away from Gore-Tex. I when a few years before accepting trail runners.
Plan more zero days with fewer miles a day. Hikes are not fun if you are fully miserable.
Get a sleeping bag or quilt that's properly rated for the expected cold...focus more on the comfort rating. I still recall that cold night....
When in comparing high end gear and can't make a choice, prioritize comfort rather than saving an ounce or two. Remember body weight is also included in weight carried and a few ounces is nothing. Be comfortable. There is no need to drop below 15 pounds and 18 pounds is a sweet spot for me. So once under 20, you are good to go.
I would tell my beginner self to get good light weight gear. I got a lot of used cheaper gear that was good but heavy. Instead of 20lbs, I was carrying 40. Just too much weight for me and not as enjoyable. After a week long backpacking trip, I started buying the lightest tent, pack and sleep system I could. I would have saved money if I would have just bought the right gear to begin with.
Good advice! Sometimes you just have to get out there on a few trips with the heavy, borrowed gear before you really know what you want and need. I know that was the case with my experience. Even after I started buying backpacking gear, I was still making gear changes with each trip I went on.
You're my new advisor for beginning backpackers! You did this for women, but there are lots of guys that need to hear your message. Thank you especially for the emphasis on 10 Essentials, footwear, and the quick mention of map and compass, these three will make or break a hike/backpack for anyone.
Awe! I love this...advisor for beginning backpackers. Hopefully someone out there can learn from my mistakes and not have to repeat them or learn the hard way.
agreed, I am a guy and I watched this video regardless. Because its something I want to start doing.
My tip would be if you don't have a tent or shelter, start in a populated area (B&B's or hotels) and/or an area with shelters/huts and walk from shelter to shelter. Scandinavia is great for this. Use what you have. Make note of what you would have liked to have. My first trip was a hut-to-hut two night trip in Norway with a friend. I was working there for the summer so I had nothing with me except my backpack and shoes. My 'sleep system' was a duvet cover that I used as a liner in the beds (the huts we stayed in had beds and blankets). I had to buy rain clothes on the way there... We didn't realise not all the huts had a food store so we had to really improvise with food (who knew how many interesting meals you can make out of instant oatmeal). We had severely underestimated the terrain and were going slower than 1km per hour on average. So tip there: for your first trip(s), go a short (seeming) trip. 8km seemed like nothing on the map but I've never been so happy to arrive (after 9+ hours). The trip was epic and I'd do it all again in a heartbeat. So my nr 1 tip would be to just go!
Sound and solid advice!!
I would suggest that you do weekly nature walks, urban trails, or just get outside and take a walk; a nice long walk. Practice keeps you fit.
I 100% agree!! This is a huge reason why I decided to offer weekly winter day hikes to the students of my program, The Confident Solo Female Backpacker System. Getting outside, even if it is just once a week, is so good for the mind and body.
Love this! One of the things that held me back from backpacking for so long has been a fear of making mistakes. It’s really refreshing to be reminded that everyone was a beginner once.
Absolutely! We've all started out as a beginner at some point and even to this day, I still make mistakes. Backpacking is a constant learning process.
No one will judge you anyway, hiking community is full of nice people.
@@j.sargent9172 it really is! I’ve never known a community of people more willing to help out a stranger! It’s awesome
@@j.sargent9172 I wish that were the case. I've met a lot of amazing people in the hiking community, but I've also met plenty of people in this community who do indeed judge, both in-person and online, especially here on TH-cam.
the good thing is if you do make mistakes there aren't a whole lot of people around to witness them 😁
I am new to hiking, and backpacking. I've made 37 trips this year, and I am hiking in the badlands, which is more than just rugged. Thank you for the excellent tips, I wouldn't even be aware of this type of thinking, if I didn't see this video! Thanks again. With love, and respect. Wes Sept
Awesome! Have fun out there!
Thank you for your videos! I’m planning a 3 week solo backpacking trip with my dog. We will be hiking across NB, Canada.
I’m super excited (a wee bit apprehensive) and looking forward the trip
Thanks for watching!
Good one. Packed with information, but concise. Good job.
Glad you enjoyed it!
One thing I like about the prebuilt first aid kit is that they often come in a very clearly labelled package. I’ve been in situations where I’ve asked a friend to grab a first aid kit from my pack, only to have them have no idea what bag/pouch it was in as they all look the same.
This is why I always choose a specific color of bag to use for my backcountry first aid kit. My previous one was a bright blue and now I use a bright red bag. It makes it so easy to know which bag is what in my pack when they each have a different, specific color.
A very Professional discussion on Backpacking
Keep up the good work Great Voice
Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed this video.
Thx so much for the great advise and the good video editing.
Best wishes from Berlin - Getmany.
Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching!
For newbies I would advise that, other than socks, nothing needs duplication.
You will get dirty and stink. Live with it. It’s part of the zen of backpacking.
Bring food that you like to eat. That vegan quinoa kale meal that tastes like moistened sawdust and makes you fart a lot will ruin your day.
Solid advice!!!
Some useful info in your vids, im a PNW gal myself, trying to decide my first overnight backpacking trip for this coming spring/summer. Im currently stuck between Gem Lake and Summit Lake as my choices 😆
Glad this video was helpful. Gem Lake and Summit Lake are both really good choices.
As a guy, i can tell you that this is very helpful and informative stuff that we all can benefit from. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
A note on gear. There's a lot of military surplus that is under rated. I've been using my ALICE since 01, and my MOLLE II is fantastic, if a bit too big.
Military surplus is a great option to check out possible backpacking gear options. Just keep in mind, this type of gear will probably be on the heavier side. If you're looking to reduce your base weight, there are other lightweight (and cost effective) options out there.
I've been using my dad's ALICE since the 80s.
Solo backpacking is great it's my favorite thing to do the 1st few nights may be a little creepy being alone in the woods that passes pretty quick and you can practice just solo car camping I like to bring my dog with me so it's not as solo but without him is really fun. I learned so much actually just hiking for a few days then i did watching tons of youtube videos however the knowlege gained from youtube was a great help and gives you a good foundation but there are things you just cant learn without trying like figuring out layering systems or sleep systems and getting them fully dialed in or things like food and water management as well as just getting to know how far you can hike and learning to improvise a bit if you end up hiking more or less than what you planned if you planned that much also asking the hikers you run into questions is so helpful i have yet to find a hiker that wasnt happy to share their opinions or little tricks or preferred gear choices you name it almost any hiker you ask questions will share a bit on info with you
also some advise i have is start trying some 1-3 day trips 1st to dial things in as well as get some wins early to boost confidence my 1st solo trip i tried hiking across my state on the pct i made it halfway and only really got off because of fires but i had stuff i wanted to send home on day 3 and evn though nature sort of forced me to go home i felt a bit bummed that i didnt finish after the fires died off 2 months later i went i did a short 31 mile trip then went out and did another 100 mile or so trip the week after that which gave me a chance to tweak a few things get everything dialed in and it gave me a lot of confidence that hey you can do these trips and get to the end while you can jump right into a huge trip and do trial by fire and have a lot of fun i think my next attempt at doing a 2-4 week trip will go much smoother also i suggest doing practice day hikes with your backpack maybe start out with just base weight but move into a full loadout with food i failed ti do that and eas suprised how much of a difference the food made it doesnt seem like much on its own but when you add it to everything else then go up and down a mountain it can be suprising how much tougher it can be
I agree. The best way to really give solo backpacking a try is to start small and practice, something I recommend in my videos all the time. 😀
I'm new to backpacking and I'm loving your videos! This will be my FIRST backpacking season and I'm also a fellow Washingtonian :) I didn't realize there were so many hikes in this state!
Awesome! Backpacking is so much fun!! There are a TON of places to go hiking and backpacking here in Washington, especially once all of the snow melts from winter.
Thank you for the video it was very enjoyable. I make jerky and it rehydrates well in any dish, in addition dehydrate, mushrooms, green onions, clinic, peas, carrots, broccoli, etc. Is amazing.I recently got sealable foil bags from Amazon, parmason, peanut butter, oils, butter, spices etc. On a side note on short trips I've brought baby back ribs, smoked fish, bratts etc. One trip we always talk about one of my best friends brought tortillia chips and one of my sons made nachos with 3 cheeses with taco bell sauce. I forgot to mention powdered milk. Just for fun mountain house ice cream sandwich lol, I love to offer new hikers just to see their faces. Thanks again for the video, you are great.
Great ideas and suggestions!
Your talking points are excellent and well presented as always 🤙
Thank you!
Your channel is a content gold mine🎉
Thank you!
I am so happy and lucky to found you. Since I moved to Europe I would love to go hiking but I have no one to do it with and it feels a bit scary. This video gave me good ideas and lots of good tips. Thank you
Glad you found this video helpful. Thanks for watching!
Great info... thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Absolutely gorgeous presentation, this is done so professionally! Narrated part is done stunningly my friend!🔥🔥
Thank you! 😀
Shoes that fit your feet and ankles, can go for miles and various terrains with you. Keep them dry, too. Nothing is worse than wearing wet boots. I wear 2 layers of thin wool socks to reduce friction.
Backpack that fits you. I was miserable with my first 3 packs until my 4th, an Osprey that let more weight on hips than shoulders. Part of it was me though. I hated upper body weight train. Weak shoulders, arms, back, and core were part reason why I couldn’t stand the weight on my back. Even Osprey couldn’t spare the fatigue and pain completely. I always ended up hating backpacking at day’s and trip’s end.
Great advice!!
You mentioned a lot of great trails. John Muir is a life long desire - at 60 - I will do it in this decade.
Biggest question, which are the best trails you have been on where dogs are welcome. I like to hike with my dog.
I Pacific Crest dog friendly?
Not sure. As someone who doesn't have a dog or hike with a dog, I don't seek out dog-friendly trails. In general, dogs are not allowed on trails in national parks so any of the national parks that the PCT goes through would be a no-go for bringing a dog. I do see people hiking with dogs on sections of the PCT occasionally, but you'll need to research where those areas are.
I always overpacked on food. I just was never as hungry as I thought. Good for everyone I met that I sometimes almost begged to take some food off me😂
Usually at the beginning of a big trip, I don't eat as much food as I think I will. After a week and a few big miles, I start to find myself hungry. It's an adjustment period for me.
I was taught by an experienced backpacking guide. She insisted my pack not weigh more than 30 pounds. I actually bring a scale with me and weigh my pack before I lock up my car to head out on the trail. If it weighs more than 30 lbs, I take things out until It weighs 30 lbs or less. I will forever be grateful to her for instilling the principle of lightweight backpacking in me. This season, having been backpacking for about 9 years, and not getting any younger, I am upgrading some of my gear to get my pack even lighter. I don’t see myself becoming a true ultra lighter, but I am hoping my pack will weigh about 20-25 lbs after my gear upgrades.
As an experienced backpacker myself, this is the exact concept I teach my students in my online backpacking program for women. The goal isn't necessarily ultralight, but the less weight you carry, the better your body will feel and the more fun you'll have on your trip. Each season I'm always working towards getting my base weight as light as I can while still being comfortable and safe out on trail.
Haha lol I was going to my first back packing and my son was helping me. I rented a tent and back pack from REI. After my son went through my stuff and packed my bag , it weighed 32 pounds. He put it on my back and I nearly fell over backwards. Hiking up two miles wasn’t gonna happen when I could hardly climb the stairs in his house. I broke my back a few years ago. I need to be able to carry more.
Hi Your video is both empowering and informative. So appreciative to have come across it. Which has been your go to backpack for your through hiking adventures and how many liters do you recommend? All the best
😊🌻
Glad you were able to find this video helpful and inspiring! I put together a video featuring all of my favorite backpacking gear I've been using, including the pack I use. You can check out that video here: th-cam.com/video/AWkzCOimFU0/w-d-xo.html
@@TheHungryHiker Thank you!! Just started following you on Instagram and will share your site with my daughters too.. Wishing you all the best on your adventures😊
I'm hoping to do the west coast trail this year by myself. I've honestly only done day hikes. I like to challenge myself. I'm nervous, but know I can do it. If you ever want to head to Canada and hike the wct, we would love to host you
Thanks for the invite!
Great Video ! I agree with every point & have some additions.
You WILL make mistakes so start easy and increase difficulty so that the inevitable mistakes aren't too costly while building your skills.
Planning: include bail-out options in the event of injury, sickness, etc - particularly for long trails.
Food: No food in tent - EVER. Rodents are the worst but while rare, it is essential to consider bear threats. Keep all SMELLABLES (toothpaste, some sunscreens, wipes, etc) with food away from sleep area. Use unscented items where possible.
Assume that you WILL get wet so protect insulating items (sleeping bag, jacket, warm clothes).
Include a SMALL repair kit- consider gear failures that could end your trip (broken tent pole, leaking sleeping pad, etc) then only include repairs for these instances.
Don't rely on electronics when navigation is essential for safety. These tools are convenient but can easily fail.
Satellite communication is essential in remote areas - but realize that help can still be several hours away. Be reasonably self-sufficient and do not get careless on the trail.
Great advice!
I've been hiking for awhile, my advice is don't get sucked into the gadgets and hiking gear gimmicks. I didn't come into it as a lightweight hiker and bought a bunch of useless stuff that never came out of my bag. Try to take as much advice as you can from lightweight hiker videos but make sure you're comfortable, you don't need to be ultralight. You'll be surprised how little you actually need. Also, great advice in this video, size up and also you don't need some crazy waterproof boot, your feet are guaranteed to get wet anyway. I wear altras, they dry fast and are lightweight. Socks are definitely nothing to skimp on! Happy hiking.
Great advice!
Thanks for these great tips!! Happy Holidays!!
Thanks for watching!
Heaps of great info in this video and so much of it I agree with, my only point of difference is about the water but that’s because I’m in Australia and where I hike there are rarely opportunities to refill. So your point about checking on water sources before you go and making sure the information is current is critical and in some cases could be life saving. For example, there were days on the Larapinta that I hiked out with 6L because of the conditions and a dry camp that night, which added more than a third extra weight to my pack but I finished the lot each time so every ml was needed but I was aware so it wasn’t a problem, just heavy to start. Happy trails.
The amount of water you'll carry on any trip will depend on where you plan on traveling. It's always going to be different so carry what you need and then add a little more, just in case.
That was great Kathleen! Very interesting to hear what you would have done differently starting out, and important to know too, since you are a seasoned backpacker. Hope your holidays are happy and warm - Merry Christmas!
Glad you enjoyed this one. This video was a lot of fun to make. Have a great holiday!!
I am just a day hiker and at 62 I don't know if I will ever get to spend the night on trail. I do love your videos though and hold onto the little niggling idea that maybe one day I too can be wilderness bound.
First of all, you're not just a day hiker. Day hiking is a big feat in itself! Maybe one day you'll finally give into the little niggling idea and give it a try. :)
My "2nd dad" is 62 and comes hiking with me all the time, we've done everything from 1 to 5 nights out on trail. You can do it!
I recommend finding a friend. I planned a trip for my partner and I and we invited some friends that he walks with. None had ever done an overnight and they ranged in age from 59 to 68, If you can do a day, you can do an overnight. You CAN do it!
Yes, you got this!!
Love this! We have been backpacking forever but new to vlogging. I love how easily you talk to the camera, you make it look so easy( I know it’s not). Any tips?
Thank you! Honestly, it just takes practice to feel comfortable talking to a camera (or at least look like I am.) Go back and check out my early videos. Pretty entertaining! The hardest part is being out in public talking to a camera and someone else sees you. I've come across other hikers out on trail while I've been talking to my camera. AWKWARD, but you get used to it. Just like Dory says, "Just keep swimming!"
Wearing hiking boots on a long trail that really didn’t need them (easy road/grass trail terrain). Killed my feet when trail runners would have been perfect.
Another mistake I saw someone else do? Not staking tent in. Dude didn’t stake his tent and we had an unexpected storm blow through which we watched from a shelter and his tent blew about 100 yards into the woods. So I feel your pain on that one.
Oh no!!! That would suck!!
If you wait to not go alone (especially pre-internet communities), you'll never go anywhere. An issue I had as a kid, teen, and now after returning after most of my adult years with a medical issue that took a long time to figure out...seriously, I'm 34. I'm old enough to not have the same anxieties I had when I was younger. Always a research aholic though.
Exactly! If you continue to wait, you'll keep on waiting until one day you realize it might be too late to go. Do the thing now. Go while you can. The sooner you get out there, the more places you'll be able to go. This thought concept is one of the reasons why I created The Confident Solo Female Backpacker System.
Love your content and empowering women.
Thank you! ❤️
I was wondering what tent you use. I've always thought I needed a 2 person tent for the same reasons you had. I've been backpacking since I was in Boy Scouts ( I'm 73 now) but have not been able to do my favorite thing for about 10 years now due to "life getting in the way." All the 2p tents are expensive and weigh 3+ pounds so I am scaling back to a 1p to save on the size and weight in my pack. I'm almost 6ft so I need a bit more length and height. I would appreciate your input. Thank you!
For my 1-person tent, I have the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Tent alnk.to/3TUlyr5
Going backwards in my channel binge but I do have a bit of an inquiry.
As a preface, I'm planning to explore a couple of areas that are not covered by gps or have any variety of SOS system, while there are also no proper trails to follow due to this being a 3rd world country. Is there any concretely applicable advice other than "go abroad to hike", because the nature here is gorgeous and really worth enjoying.
I personally wouldn't feel comfortable going somewhere by myself where there's no GPS coverage or couldn't use my Garmin's SOS function.
When trekking internationally, I'd recommend finding a local guide. Not only will you help support the local economy (tourism is often one of the number one industries in a lot of third world countries), but you'll also get a more rich experience and learn more about the area and cultural than if you were to travel it alone. In fact, Nepal put it into law in 2023, banning solo trekking, making it so that all international tourists now need to hire a local guide for their backcountry treks. I fully support this new regulation.
Love your videos! I have a question with food storage! Is everyone respectful? Like, no is gonna steal your food? This is a very random fear I have haha
Thank you! I’ve personally never had an issue with anyone out on trail trying to take my food. The only issue I’ve ever had was when two mice broke into my tent in the middle of the night, scurrying through my hair, trying to get to the snacks I had forgotten were in my tent. THIS is why I now always make sure all of my food and scented items are always stored outside and faraway from my tent. I never want to be woken up to mice running through my hair again. 🤢
Welch’s Fruit Snacks - yum.
Dedicated satellite communicators will be obsolete soon - iPhone 14 has a satellite emergency beacon now, other brands will follow.
Solo backpacking is liberating and surprisingly stress-free once you overcome internally-generated anxiety.
I agree with you 100%! Solo backpacking is incredibly liberating and quite the stress reducer.
I love the mouse story! It equals the time a guy I was with checked out the sky and decided to not pitch his tent. Cue storm at 2:00 a.m. Laughed our asses off listening to him pitch in the rain!
Eeks!!! I'd be laughing my ass off in my tent too!!!
When I was backpacking with a group as a teen in the Sierra my tent mate brought her toothpaste in the tent. We were woken up by a marmot trying to get in the tent. Nice early lesson on not keeping the food inside the tent.
Yikes! Such an important lesson to learn on why scented and food items shouldn’t be stored in the tent.
I’m walking the PCT in 2023 and I have no idea of what I’m doing. Lol. I don’t know exactly what to do about resupply.
Don't feel bad. Most people who leave to go on their first thru-hike usually don't know what they're doing. I know I didn't when I left to thru-hike the PCT in 2018. You'll want to plan for your trip of course, but a lot of it you'll figure it out as you go.
This wasn't a whole thru-hike, but watch this video to see how I put together my resupply strategy for the 250-mile section hike of the PCT here in Washington this summer. This will give you a few ideas and resources you can use to start thinking about how you might want to put together your own resupply strategy for the PCT next year: th-cam.com/video/hqwX22n8AQ0/w-d-xo.html
Good luck!
How do you plan for a hike? Permits, and that kind of thing. It seems that you have to do all this years in advance in some places. Why can't they just let you go without all that?
There are a TON of beautiful places to go backpacking that don’t require permits. I suggest getting a guidebook for the area you want to go in and research some trail possibilities that don’t require a permit. Good luck!
PS: Trip planning along with all of my favorite trip planning tips & tricks are covered extensively in my online backpacking course for women, The Confident Solo Female Backpacker System www.the-hungry-hiker.com/the-confident-solo-female-backpacker-system/
I would love to walk long distance hikes but i just dont understand how you guys make the time for them? Any tips?
Trip planning. I put my trips on the calendar and then make them a priority. If something is that important, you’ll make it happen. Otherwise, “someday” will never come.
Easy, quit your job, divorce your family, having saved up very much money first. Hmmm, seems I’ll never be a through-hiker! 😂
I wish I could find the same type of advices to backpacking in Europe...
Totally understandable. I backpack mainly here in the United States so all of my advice speaks to the experiences I've had out on trail in the places I've been to.
Great advice!
Glad it was helpful!
My biggest thing are maps.
I’m terrible, trying to determine the distance train and that’s always been my biggest fear and that’s why I’ve not done a real backpacking trip. I’m afraid I can’t make it to the end. 😢
I totally get that. Navigation is a skillset I'm always having to work at and improve upon. It comes with lots and lots of practice, but don't let that hold you back from getting out there.
I would like to know more about ultralight gear . I see that on the pct you used ultralight gear but now not so much. What are the pros cons and why are you using ultralight gear or not using ultralight gear.
I’ve never been an ultralight backpacker, even when I thru-hiked the PCT. My baseweight was actually heavier when I was thru-hiking the PCT back in 2018 and 2019. 🙅♀️
@@TheHungryHiker oh okay. I'm 57. I have been hiking since highschool. Never been ultralight but my current set up I would consider semi light. I am looking to upgrade to a lighter tent. Also Im from Portland I'll be in the Olympics and cascade national parks this summer
@@chrisnorvell1631 Here's my gear list from my PCT section hike I did this summer, going from Snoqualmie Pass in Washington to Cascade Locks, Oregon for 250 miles in 17 days. This might give you some ideas on new gear to try: lighterpack.com/r/gcwddb
Also, check out this video where I go over all of the gear I used for this trip in detail: th-cam.com/video/Cq3wzCbF_A8/w-d-xo.html
Good luck!
I'm 55 and would love to get into hiking and tramping/backpacking. I'm wondering I'm I being completely stupid and to old to start?
You're NEVER too old to start hiking and backpacking. :)
@@TheHungryHiker thank you cause friends family are wondering why the heck do you want to do this at your age. So it's made me doubt abit. I've always loved the outdoors but my time was spent raising 3 on my own. When out in nature feel so much more connected
I will be 70 years old in October. I want to learn to hike and maybe backpack solo but I’m afraid I’m too old.
You're never too old to learn how to go hiking and backpacking solo.
You said there is no stupid questions so why do through hikers I see on TH-cam do not use snow shoes? Or Gators? I do see most of them wearing Trail runners how do they keep their feet dry and warm?
Snowshoes are relatively heavy. Most summer trips have little snow so the weight penalty is not practical. Posthholing in snow does expend a lot of energy but can be manageable over short distances.
Ice is a bigger threat - even short sections. Most experienced hikers will carry microspikes if ice is a safety concern.
Long gaiters are rarely used except on winter outings. There are very light gaiters that just cover the tops of shoes and are primarily used to keep rocks out of shoes.
I think it all depends on the trip and the backpacker. If the backpacker is "ultralight", they might decide to go without a lot of gear that would make most of us feel comfortable out on trail in less than desirable conditions, in an effort to save on the weight they carry for their trip. In this scenario, if a backpacker views being ultralight as the priority, they will probably be hiking in wet and cold shoes and socks. The idea behind being ultralight is that with less weight, you're able to hike more miles throughout the day, which means less time out on trail.
Also, depending on where the backpacker goes, snowshoes might be overkill for the conditions, but microspikes would work just fine. It all depends.
Mistake number 1 thru hiking the north country trail on your first through hike
Sounds like a big first thru-hike!
Hey Thanks I'm not a woman but I appreciate ya
You don't have to be a woman to appreciate my videos. I create content for all hikers and backpackers. :)
@@rockytopwrangler2069 Agreed! There's so much more to backpacking than having all of the new, cool pieces of gear. That's one of the many things I love about backpacking is that there's always something new to learn and it's not just collecting gear.
Thank you for this content! I went on my first backpacking trip this year (2022) and can’t wait to get more in next year. Your content was/is SO helpful for not only planning/logistics but helping me feel confident enough to GO. Thank you for all your hard work ❤
This is awesome! Glad you enjoyed this video and found it helpful.
First piece of advice, understand what ultra light means. Because it says ultralight doesn’t mean it is. The desert section of the PCT, carry more water and less food. Sock liners can save you. If you’re going to where it’s cold get the better R value pad nothing like a cold night trying to sleep. Shoes get the shoes that work for you and know you might not know it until you have put a few miles in them. Lastly swallow your ego and your preconceived notions, there’s experts out there one should listen to, so always check out the comments and see what the people are backing up and what they’re saying is BS. And always tell someone your plan and stick with it, it might save your life.
Solid advice!!
Another tip: spend some time in the military. It will quickly teach you what your comfort level REALLY is. 😂😂
No thanks! I'm good with hiking and backpacking. :)
This is really great advice for all genders
ALL of the content I create here on TH-cam is for all hikers and backpackers, even this video.
Ounces= Pounds Pounds = PAIN
Very true!
#1 mistake, hiking (backpacking) with someone else.
Group backpacking trips can be fun, but my personal preference is to do my bigger trips solo.
"Barefoot shoes"
So are men not welcome to your backpacking program?
It’s called The Confident Solo Female Backpacker System. There are LOTS of backpacking programs and systems out there designed specifically for men. This space has been traditionally male centric so I’m confident you’ll find a program that works for you and has what you’re looking for.
Know what you mean about shoes. I have used a pair of Merrell Mesa Ventilators, I think that is what they are called, for more years than I care to remember. Don"t think they are in production. Those are my three season boots. For winter, I use everything from insulated Converse military boots to Columbia Titanium Ice Warrior that are rated for, I think, -50F active. Only used them a few times. Lots of good info. Stay safe.
Thank you! 😀
I agree newbies shouldn't sleep with their food.
However, two of the most experienced hikers I've ever seen sleep with their food.
Most triple crowners I've met sleep with their food. You have to know what you're doing.
Two blogs to read
"Admission: Yes, I sleep with my food" ---by Andrew Skurka
"Bears The Hiking Life" --by Cam "Swami" Honan:
Just because you’re “experienced” doesn’t mean that sleeping with your food is a good idea. All it takes is one bad experience and you’ll never want to do it again.
@@TheHungryHiker Are you talking to me or Skurka and Honan?
Did you read the two blogs by Skurka or Honan?
Maybe post comments in their blogs about your feelings.
Everybody hikes their own hike 😊
Hey there Bart. What the WHAT? Wanna sleep with your food because some dude did it and was fine, do it. But it’s a stupid thing to do.
one thing that I seriously DISAGREE with is the part about sleeping with your food. there is NOTHING wrong with sleeping with your food. People tend to make a huge deal about it, but its really not a big deal. over 25 years, and over 16,000 miles hiked, I have always slept with my food and have never had any issues with bears or other critters messing with me. except for the deer.... the deer always want to lick me for my salt! lol. stupid deer...... hahaha.
Agree to disagree. After my experience with the mice breaking into my tent and running through my hair at 1AM, that was enough for me to never sleep with any food or scented items in my tent again. Good on you for not having a bad experience with any wildlife trying to break into your tent. I haven't been so lucky.
When I heard about the mice I had an heart attack.
I still get the chills when I think about them running through my hair. OMG!! It was the worse and I learned that lesson QUICKLY!
backpacking all alone is still dangerous, you can have an accident like falling and breaking bones, head injuries, or being attack by a wild bear, boar, bitten by a snake, or animal with rabies (and not many people are vaccinated against rabies since it it extremely costly and you need to have three shot in three months) so lots of things can happen to you. So, find people who want to travel with you and if you can't don't do long trails. Stay safe and be wise....nice video you are one smart lady.
You know what else is dangerous? Driving a car. Crossing a street. Walking alone at night in a big, crowded city. You can fall at your own house and break a bone. You can get a head injury falling in your own neighborhood. You can get attacked by animals pretty much anywhere. With anything in life, there's always a certain level of risk, especially when you leave the house. Instead of living life in fear and letting fears hold you back from doing the things you want to do, plan and prepare accordingly for the task at hand. I personally always prepare for the worse case scenario and then proceed with caution.
Another very informative video! Thank you ❤
Thanks for watching!
I have a question... Is there any chance of this opening for others?? I'm a Transgender male but I'd love to join!
Exciting news!! I have a new, online Trip Planning Masterclass that I'll be launching officially at the beginning of April. Anyone subscribed to my email list will be invited to sign up for the class starting on March 15th and get a special, limited time discount, just for being on my email list. If you aren't already on there, you can sign up for my email list here and get all of the details: mailchi.mp/f595274b9ae1/the-hungry-hiker-backpacking-gear-packing-list
Since I get so many questions about trip planning backpacking trips, I decided to create The Hungry Hiker Trip Planning Masterclass.
The Hungry Hiker Trip Planning Masterclass will be for anyone who is overwhelmed by the trip planning process and is looking to plan their first or next overnight backpacking trip, either as a solo trip or with a group of friends. If you’re tired of talking about it and are ready to finally start planning your overnight backpacking trip this year, this masterclass will help you get to the trailhead.
Do you have a “no cis men” group near you? I recently found out that one existed near me and they have all sorts of different activities.
@@thisbeem2714 I just checked and sadly it looks like we don’t :(
@@thekylermason that is a bummer.