Thank you for this! 👍. Everything looks great! I really like Chica’s colorful fleece hoody. Will definitely be looking up that company. And I look forward to seeing how the solar panel charger works for you. That seems nice to have so you won’t have to worry about energy for the phones,etc. I will be looking forward to your videos from the trail! Safe travels and have a great time! 👍
Thank you for the video AND for not doing ads! I don't follow anybody that routinely does ads! Can't wait for the adventure to begin. Safe travels. Yard Dart
Chica's comments: Nice Sleeve Chica! Yes on the stuff for nose bleeds. I'm on a blood thinner now and they are a common occurrence now. No problem being old school and writing down stuff. There are lots of Pickers in the desert that can puncture your sleeping pad. Make sure you carry repair patches. I recently bought one of those Flextail inflators, the really light one (just over 1 oz) and it works great. I think on a thru hike, I'd use the inflator bag though. I use the pocket rocket deluxe cook stove and it is fantastic. I use a Nitecore flashlight that is adjustable to 1 LUX in the tent. It runs for 74 hours on a charge at 1 LUX and I love it. The mosquito net is a must have and you'll be glad you have one when you need it. John from MI
Hey guys, it's Dokkodo and I'm glad to see you again. If anyone is hiking the AT, they have the best hiker's hostel in North Carolina to stay at. They took great care of me when I jacked up my knee on the trail (2023) and had to hit up a hospital. Plus, they serve up a great morning breakfast.
New subscriber here. I’m very happy that you both are taking your own separate cook system and food. A lot of couples don’t and they share their pots and silverware …. But I’m single so that’s probably why I notice that stuff lol. Anyway, I’ll follow along!!! Excited for your journey!!
Great review! It helps us fellow hikers learn from your vast thru-hiking experience. It will be interesting to see what gear you change during your PCT adventure.
Everything looks good , we love our three person big Agnes . Will be interesting to see how the solar works. Looking forward to watching your adventure.
I really like both y’all’s load outs. I started using the ziplock freezer bag cooking last year and have no regrets and it’s my plan for the CT this summer. Thanks for sharing!✌️
I’ll be curious to see how Sunsets does with just a shell and the Timmermade mid-layer. Once your body adjusts to the hotter desert temperatures my experience was that some relatively mild evening/morning temperatures can feel pretty cool. Lots of air moves off all the ridges so even when you’re camped upslope you can still get a lot of convective heat loss from air movement downslope. I think I’ve noted he runs hot, as do I, but for my money I would add a vest such as Montbell’s Plasma 1000; weighs 3.2 but not inexpensive. Just a thought. I use the Ayr Nasal Gel in the winter and anytime I go West where the humidity is lower, generally. It works great to prevent the nosebleed issue. I cut the stick of an ear swab in half and use one of those to apply it up my nose a short distance. I also use the same thing to apply antibiotic ointment when needed for a cut, etc. Good luck. You all have it dialed in for sure. 😊
I’ll be interested about how the alpha-direct system works too. It different using a system for day hikes and overnights than depending on it 24/7. I can always have a puffy or fleece sent ahead - we’ll see.
Chica/Sunset: Great video. Looks like you have everything pretty much dialed in. My only suggestion is that you reconsider "camp" shoes. Rivers and streams are likly to be running high again this year and camp shoes come in handy when fording. Also have you given any thought to how you will address the bridges that are out on the South Fork San Joaquin (mile 854.5) (just south of Muir Trail Ranch) and the Middle Fork San Joaquin (Mile 912.2) (just north of Devil's Post Pile). Neither bridge is expected to be replaced until mid to late summer at the earliest There are a couple of alternatives that you can see on the PCTA web site. Also the road in to Red's will be closed this summer (and possible next summer and in to 2026) for construction from Monday through Thursday (Red's will remain open). If you plan to nero or zero in Mammoth and arrive during the week while the road is closed, consider getting off at Duck Pass or Red Cones. Each trail leads to a parking area with a shuttle bus to downtown Mammoth. Robin and I are really looking forward to following you while you are on the trail and hope to meet up with you while you are in the Mammoth area (we can offer a shower, bed, clean linens and great local brew. We will be in June Lake for all of the summer though we have a few trips planned on the JMT (the first are 75-713 and 7/27-8/1). Feel free to drop me a line if you need any assistance in resupplying etc.
Hey guys, all great points to consider. I bet the camp shoes end up in my pack. Thanks for the info about Mammoth. We are aware of the bridges being out and we’ll figure the best way to cross that bridge on trail. That’d be cool to see you out there.
Love Chica's sun hoodie! Not much to critique here, looks pretty dialed in. I do have a few comments on the electronics. 1) I am predicting the solar panel doesn't make it to Canada. 2) Is 10000 mA enough for the Sierra? 3) Love Sunsets charging cable setup. (I just upgraded to an iPhone 15. USB-C port. Maked cable management much simpler.) Link to Koozie? I don't like my Hyperlite. It is too small. Hope to see you at my trail magic when you get to Oregon. I'll try and time it to ensure it happens. Location is 1/2 day north of Timberline Lodge at Lolo Pass.
I can get 6 top off charges from my 10k bank. So 7 days worth of travel. We’ll see how far the solar charger makes it. Maybe we’ll run into you up north.
Quick comment on sunscreen. I just had my annual dermatology appointment and every year I ask for sunscreen samples. They give me a bag of samples so you might get some free samples from your dermatologist. They are very lightweight and small containers. Sunsets Comments: I highly recommend you activate and use the inReach prior to leaving to test it. I use the 3 presets to let my loved know that 1) I left camp 2) I arrived at camp 3) I'm OK and taking a break. On the inReach, if you do the $14.95/mo., you can't do the 10 minute pinning's on your route. If you do the $24.95, you can. On the PCT, I'd recommend you go for the more expensive so you can allow your friends to track where you are. I see you didn't use the backpacker bidet. I use the Holey Hiker Backpacking Bidet and I swear by it. Use it to clean off and then maybe a wet wipe to freshen up. The main secret is to "pre wet" the area and it cleans up better. Ouch on the no puffy. I think you are going to miss that. I LOVE my GG foam pad. It keeps my sleeping pad from creeping inside my tent when I'm on a slope. I love my URSACK. Not sure how you will hang your food bag in the desert but maybe there will be enough trees. I have the nitecore 10000 and sometimes I find it doesn't charge up my iPhone to 100. It only takes it to 80% so if you have a solution, let me know. I have to go so I'll comment more when I get home on the rest of the video. John (OSAT) from MI
Hubby and I are planning on hiking the PCT in 2025 and I’m already in full planning mode. Enjoyed your gear list video, as well as the weekly budget report and how you planned your hike. We’ll be doing the same as far as hiking in the morning, long siesta and then hiking later in the afternoon. One question, as a newbie wannabe videographer. I’d love to see a video of how you videoed your hike. What equipment you used, how did you upload, how to get started, etc. I just want to record the journey for family. Is a phone sufficient or should I use GoPro? Lots of questions? Can’t find a tutorial so am asking you for advice! Thanks.
@@nancychristiansen5941 Hi there! I just use my iPhone and the Perfect Video app (pay for one time fee) - works great for me. I edit each night and save to my camera roll and then when in town upload with wifi. Thanks! - Chica
Why do you not roll up the neo air sleep pad and do you use the micro pump? Also. What method do you use to attach trail patches. I am a true hyperlite gear hiker and obviously can’t sew patches on w/o damaging bag. You guys are looking very prepared. Will be watching and cheering you on be safe and enjoy!
I find folding the mattress fills space better. Funny, I just bought an inflater and I’m bringing it. Most patches have glue and can be applied with an iron. We ironed on plus stitched. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching.
For anything we cook in ziplock bags (ramen, mashed potatoes, ramen bombs, etc) when we are not using a freeze dried meal bag. The koozie helps insulate the heat while it cooks.
Thank you for this! 👍. Everything looks great! I really like Chica’s colorful fleece hoody. Will definitely be looking up that company. And I look forward to seeing how the solar panel charger works for you. That seems nice to have so you won’t have to worry about energy for the phones,etc.
I will be looking forward to your videos from the trail! Safe travels and have a great time! 👍
Thank you so much! Will keep ya posted on the solar panel. Cheers!
Thank you for the video AND for not doing ads! I don't follow anybody that routinely does ads! Can't wait for the adventure to begin. Safe travels. Yard Dart
Hi Yard Dart! Thank you so much!!
Chica's comments: Nice Sleeve Chica! Yes on the stuff for nose bleeds. I'm on a blood thinner now and they are a common occurrence now. No problem being old school and writing down stuff. There are lots of Pickers in the desert that can puncture your sleeping pad. Make sure you carry repair patches. I recently bought one of those Flextail inflators, the really light one (just over 1 oz) and it works great. I think on a thru hike, I'd use the inflator bag though. I use the pocket rocket deluxe cook stove and it is fantastic. I use a Nitecore flashlight that is adjustable to 1 LUX in the tent. It runs for 74 hours on a charge at 1 LUX and I love it. The mosquito net is a must have and you'll be glad you have one when you need it. John from MI
Thx on the sleeve! And yep I feel good about all my gear. Can’t wait to be out there!! - Chica
I'm excited for you both! I hiked the first 77 miles of the PCT in 2021. It was gorgeous! I hope you have the best time!
Very cool! Thanks!
Hey guys, it's Dokkodo and I'm glad to see you again. If anyone is hiking the AT, they have the best hiker's hostel in North Carolina to stay at. They took great care of me when I jacked up my knee on the trail (2023) and had to hit up a hospital. Plus, they serve up a great morning breakfast.
New subscriber here. I’m very happy that you both are taking your own separate cook system and food. A lot of couples don’t and they share their pots and silverware …. But I’m single so that’s probably why I notice that stuff lol. Anyway, I’ll follow along!!! Excited for your journey!!
Thanks for the follow Jenna. We tried all sorts of methods - usually we just eat cold - we’ll see how it goes.
Great review! It helps us fellow hikers learn from your vast thru-hiking experience. It will be interesting to see what gear you change during your PCT adventure.
Thx Dale! Your tent bag works so great!! 😀
Everything looks good , we love our three person big Agnes . Will be interesting to see how the solar works. Looking forward to watching your adventure.
Good luck on your hike! We are heading out to do DWG on the AT, next summer the Smokies! Thanks for all your great tips.
I really like both y’all’s load outs. I started using the ziplock freezer bag cooking last year and have no regrets and it’s my plan for the CT this summer. Thanks for sharing!✌️
Thank you! We love it because it keeps our cook pot clean! Thx so much.
Also - I think it's YOU who just donated via PP - WOW! Thank you sooooo much! -- Chica & Sunsets
@@ChicaandSunsets You're very welcome!❤
I love you two! Can't wait to watch your trek.
Thank you!
Congratulations on reaching the halfway point and receiving double trail magic!!!
So sorry!!! YT skipped from the video this comment was meant for to yours. Looking for to your PCT hike!!!
@@sablerubycocoa Thx for explaining, thought that had to be for someone else's. Thank you for watching our PCT vids!
I’ll be curious to see how Sunsets does with just a shell and the Timmermade mid-layer. Once your body adjusts to the hotter desert temperatures my experience was that some relatively mild evening/morning temperatures can feel pretty cool. Lots of air moves off all the ridges so even when you’re camped upslope you can still get a lot of convective heat loss from air movement downslope. I think I’ve noted he runs hot, as do I, but for my money I would add a vest such as Montbell’s Plasma 1000; weighs 3.2 but not inexpensive. Just a thought. I use the Ayr Nasal Gel in the winter and anytime I go West where the humidity is lower, generally. It works great to prevent the nosebleed issue. I cut the stick of an ear swab in half and use one of those to apply it up my nose a short distance. I also use the same thing to apply antibiotic ointment when needed for a cut, etc. Good luck. You all have it dialed in for sure. 😊
I’ll be interested about how the alpha-direct system works too. It different using a system for day hikes and overnights than depending on it 24/7. I can always have a puffy or fleece sent ahead - we’ll see.
Chica/Sunset: Great video. Looks like you have everything pretty much dialed in. My only suggestion is that you reconsider "camp" shoes. Rivers and streams are likly to be running high again this year and camp shoes come in handy when fording. Also have you given any thought to how you will address the bridges that are out on the South Fork San Joaquin (mile 854.5) (just south of Muir Trail Ranch) and the Middle Fork San Joaquin (Mile 912.2) (just north of Devil's Post Pile). Neither bridge is expected to be replaced until mid to late summer at the earliest There are a couple of alternatives that you can see on the PCTA web site. Also the road in to Red's will be closed this summer (and possible next summer and in to 2026) for construction from Monday through Thursday (Red's will remain open). If you plan to nero or zero in Mammoth and arrive during the week while the road is closed, consider getting off at Duck Pass or Red Cones. Each trail leads to a parking area with a shuttle bus to downtown Mammoth. Robin and I are really looking forward to following you while you are on the trail and hope to meet up with you while you are in the Mammoth area (we can offer a shower, bed, clean linens and great local brew. We will be in June Lake for all of the summer though we have a few trips planned on the JMT (the first are 75-713 and 7/27-8/1). Feel free to drop me a line if you need any assistance in resupplying etc.
Hey guys, all great points to consider. I bet the camp shoes end up in my pack. Thanks for the info about Mammoth. We are aware of the bridges being out and we’ll figure the best way to cross that bridge on trail. That’d be cool to see you out there.
Great. Just us know how we can help. We can provide a shuttle service from Onion Valley (Kearsarge Pass) to Sonora Pass.
Thank you so much!! 😊
Wow how exciting! Soo happy for you!!
Love Chica's sun hoodie! Not much to critique here, looks pretty dialed in. I do have a few comments on the electronics. 1) I am predicting the solar panel doesn't make it to Canada. 2) Is 10000 mA enough for the Sierra? 3) Love Sunsets charging cable setup. (I just upgraded to an iPhone 15. USB-C port. Maked cable management much simpler.)
Link to Koozie? I don't like my Hyperlite. It is too small.
Hope to see you at my trail magic when you get to Oregon. I'll try and time it to ensure it happens. Location is 1/2 day north of Timberline Lodge at Lolo Pass.
I can get 6 top off charges from my 10k bank. So 7 days worth of travel. We’ll see how far the solar charger makes it. Maybe we’ll run into you up north.
Quick comment on sunscreen. I just had my annual dermatology appointment and every year I ask for sunscreen samples. They give me a bag of samples so you might get some free samples from your dermatologist. They are very lightweight and small containers. Sunsets Comments: I highly recommend you activate and use the inReach prior to leaving to test it. I use the 3 presets to let my loved know that 1) I left camp 2) I arrived at camp 3) I'm OK and taking a break. On the inReach, if you do the $14.95/mo., you can't do the 10 minute pinning's on your route. If you do the $24.95, you can. On the PCT, I'd recommend you go for the more expensive so you can allow your friends to track where you are. I see you didn't use the backpacker bidet. I use the Holey Hiker Backpacking Bidet and I swear by it. Use it to clean off and then maybe a wet wipe to freshen up. The main secret is to "pre wet" the area and it cleans up better. Ouch on the no puffy. I think you are going to miss that. I LOVE my GG foam pad. It keeps my sleeping pad from creeping inside my tent when I'm on a slope. I love my URSACK. Not sure how you will hang your food bag in the desert but maybe there will be enough trees. I have the nitecore 10000 and sometimes I find it doesn't charge up my iPhone to 100. It only takes it to 80% so if you have a solution, let me know. I have to go so I'll comment more when I get home on the rest of the video. John (OSAT) from MI
Great thoughts. Thanks!
Godspeed!!! ❤
Hubby and I are planning on hiking the PCT in 2025 and I’m already in full planning mode. Enjoyed your gear list video, as well as the weekly budget report and how you planned your hike. We’ll be doing the same as far as hiking in the morning, long siesta and then hiking later in the afternoon.
One question, as a newbie wannabe videographer. I’d love to see a video of how you videoed your hike. What equipment you used, how did you upload, how to get started, etc. I just want to record the journey for family. Is a phone sufficient or should I use GoPro? Lots of questions? Can’t find a tutorial so am asking you for advice! Thanks.
@@nancychristiansen5941 Hi there! I just use my iPhone and the Perfect Video app (pay for one time fee) - works great for me. I edit each night and save to my camera roll and then when in town upload with wifi. Thanks! - Chica
Thanks for sharing. I may have missed it- is Sunsets bringing an umbrella?
He is not. Just Chica. :)
Why do you not roll up the neo air sleep pad and do you use the micro pump? Also. What method do you use to attach trail patches. I am a true hyperlite gear hiker and obviously can’t sew patches on w/o damaging bag. You guys are looking very prepared. Will be watching and cheering you on be safe and enjoy!
I find folding the mattress fills space better. Funny, I just bought an inflater and I’m bringing it. Most patches have glue and can be applied with an iron. We ironed on plus stitched.
Hope this helps. Thanks for watching.
Great video. What is the brand of headlight clip that Chica is taking? I need one to wear while I use my Leki poles! Thanks!
It’s Nitecore - see link in description under Chica’s gear. Thx!
In what way do you use your Koozie?
For anything we cook in ziplock bags (ramen, mashed potatoes, ramen bombs, etc) when we are not using a freeze dried meal bag. The koozie helps insulate the heat while it cooks.
@@ChicaandSunsets thanks. Have not tried this yet. Do you have a link to the Etsy shop? Your vlog was helpful guys.
www.etsy.com/listing/1598166403/
@@ChicaandSunsets thanks
right on! You got this!
you got uber money?
What did you use on your rain jacket?
Nikwax.
This just occurred to me-no platypus water storage IN your backpack? Just curious.
We both have a 3L CNOC bag. The CNOC along with our water bottles = 7L carry capacity.