I always take gaiters, they are soooo useful. But not the teeny ankle variety, I use goretex knee-length. Zipped together they make a waterproof sit-mat, they cover the calves going through stinging nettles in shorts, They make a great wrap for collecting firewood. Or a really tall wind-screen for the stove. Oh yes, and you can use them as gaiters too!
@@mammyrambles2197 A couple of sticks or even trekking poles and a few inches of string/paracord ties the corner of the joined gaiters to the sticks. Position the stove behind the gaiters... (actually, I usually use 3 sticks if it's that windy, one in the centre to stop the gaiters ballooning like a kite!
Another vote for kula cloth! I was hesitant at first to get a "single purpose" piece of gear but having one has made backpacking much more comfortable. They also have fun prints including some artist designs with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the artist or charity organization.
Couple of additional ideas under $30-. Sea to Summit collapsible silicone x-cup or mug (I prefer the larger mug), Loop earplugs, fuel canisters, Tenacious Tape
thank you for this this shows how budget friendly camping can be would you be interested in trying the rain-kilts-skirts or are they not your thing...?? a rain-kilt-skirt compliments your poncho and you could have fun trying the many multiple-uses for each that i have compiled a list for here goes have fun... some advantages for a poncho and or rain-kilt-skirt or combination over rain-jackets or rain-pants-leggings for multi-purpose use thereof some may require strategic placed eyelets or looped-webbing added for some of ye above for extra versatility 1 equipment cover 2 ground-sheet 3 keep equipment off wet-damp floor 4 sitting on 5 mini-shelter 6 emergency-sled 7 emergency- tarp for gear or over hole in tent or tarp 8 changing mat 9 tent-footprint 10 gear carrier 11 stretcher 12 hammock 13 water-catcher 14 water-carrier 15 gear flotation 16 mattress-insulator [stuff with leaves and-such] 17 sleeping-bag 18 wind-break 19 repair-patches for tent and-such 20 smoke-signal 21 sail for small boat or raft 22 dummy or decoy 23 sleeping-bag cover 24 camouflage 25 if you have orange or other suitable colour poncho or rain-kilt-skirt can use as a signal-flag for help flag for mountain-air rescue
For cleaning up on trail in a way that keeps me far away from water sources which i could contaminate, I cut the top half off of an empty gallon milk jug and use it as a sink. The sides fold in and it lays flat inside a gallon zip lock in my pack's netting area. Very lightweight ....
For small pots for 2 or 3 people, I went to a couple of thrift stores (like Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc.) and found some really cheap stainless steel pots for less than $2 to put in my back pack, and they even came with lids and removeable handles.
My wife used the pstyle on the JMT and found it revolutionary. Didn’t compare it to other types but she loved it. I used the bidet you mentioned also on the JMT and I won’t be going back.
Thank you Dixie, lots of great gear! GGG sent me one of those toothbrushes gratis with my Cnoc order. My first thought was COOL! but after using it -- it's much too short to get the back teeth. 😕 Trowel: I use a snow stake. 1oz, $6
A few thoughts: 1) I'd recommend against the titanium spoon. Most of them have a gritty finish (like in the vid), which a lot of people can't stand. More than that, though, there IS what I think is a better alternative. The Humangear GoBites Duo is a two-piece utensil that snaps together, is longer than the titanium spoons, is every bit as strong as you need it to be to stir a ramen bomb in those bags and has fork tines that you can actually use. It runs about $7-$8. It weighs about .08 oz. more than the Toaks spoon sold at REI. 2) As was said in the vid, the standard size Sawyer is the way to go. I had the mini going up Whitney and damn near passed out because of how long it took to process my daily water. The flow is just pee stream style. The trick is seeing if you can find a regular Sawyer for a few dollars less on its own, rather than as part of a bundle, which you really don't need because you'll upgrade pretty much everything in that bundle. 3) Cascade Mountain trekking poles are great. They're cheap, light and I haven't even had to replace my points since I got them mountains and miles ago, roughly 5 years. You WILL go through a few sets of rubber tips, though. 4) Gaiters are a nice way to personalize your outfit ... and almost completely unnecessary. I got a set a few years back and just never wear them. This is definitely a case of seeing if you need them before getting them. Don't get them in case you will need them. Most of us only do a few types of hikes in a few different terrains. If you don't have a problem with sand and dirt in your shoes, you can skip the gaiters. Obviously invest in Buffs. :)
Yeah, me too on the gritty titanium, nails on a chalkboard in your mouth, yuck! But..... Toaks, and probably others, makes a polished version. Way better. And since I happened to have some super fine sandpaper - like all the way up to 10K, I used it on all the spoon part that would be in my mouth. More comfortable for sure.
You must have received a better pair of Cascade Mountain trekking poles than I received. Mine vibrated and rattled so bad they were a major distraction. I immediately returned them.
@@daven.7685 I never have any vibration issues that aren't of my own doing. I bought mine a half dozen years ago, though. Maybe there are differences among product generations and models. i bought them based on a "cheap gear" video back in the day. That said, that BRS stove everyone loves? I bought one around that same time, it petered out after a dozen seconds and I said I'm done with it. Scores of positive YT reviews later, I'm still fine with spending $26 more on a PR2.
@@bobthetomato8375 I like that the GoBites model packs smaller and has usable fork tines. My big concern was if it was stiff enough to work food around in those bags, but it's defiinitely more sturdy than I'd expect a two-piecer to be. I had the other spoons. Just didn't care for them. Of course, if you're not a weight weenie then you just buy a milkshake spoon. :)
My daughter discovered the Kula Cloth, and really like them! But a kayaking buddy swears by the plastic transmission fluid funnels for female urination. She says they are lightweight, dry quickly, and reach far enough from one's body that undressing is minimal. While it might be awkward to carry inside a pack, a hole could be drilled in the top edge (side) to allow a string to be attached for hanging outside the pack. Hope you and yours enjoy the holidays, Dixie!
If you go through a lot of CD's or DVD's, I suggest saving the plastic container. You can use it to protect your toilet paper. It will protect it from moisture and getting crushed. Thanks for the video.
I just came here to say that the P-style has changed my life and I still get excited sometimes when I use it, two years later. There's just something about being able to pee like a dude that makes me so happy. I only wish I could have bought one years ago (and so do my knees). I've only had the Kula cloth for this past hiking season but I love it too.
Love you Dixie! I just finished the Ocean to Lake Trail in South Florida. For five days I packed 1 1/2 pints grape tomatoes, one jar artichokes, one jar cocktail olives all in individual ziploc bags along with tortillas and turkey pepperoni as my staples on the cheap! They stay unsquished in the easy access net of my backpack.
Thank you! Very helpful never heard of garage grown gear before actually so their prices are reasonable. Bamboo is light weight and cheap. Tooth brushes and spoons!
I bought a BRS stove after I fumbled my Pocket Rocket while it was screwed on a fuel container. I'm going by a Phoenix REI next week. As long as the Pocket Rocket hasn't been "updated" and still weighs less than a pound costing under $150 I will buy one. Then I'll drop the flimsy, unstable BRS into a trashcan before I get out of the REI lot.
Another cheap item I bring is a nanofibre cloth for drying tents, washing my face, drying feet and occasionally even dishes. It's especially nice in colder temperatures when tents are slow to dry and cleanliness is generally more difficult. Then just hang it off the pack to dry.
I used the CuloClean Bidet on my Thruhike of South Island New Zealand and found it very helpful to stay clean and feel fresher. To work out the angle though when you’re using it in a long drop loo can be challenging, one might spray the toilet seat otherwise… 😮 Obviously no issue when outside. Still use it now back home, as I don’t have a bidet and I love the cleanliness
Nice video (again)! Here are a few more under or close to $30 items. Backpacking pillows, such as Trekology; Soto Amicus stove, more efficient and windprotected than BRS, though heavier; Nitecore NU25 headlamp is close to $30, if on sale; Tyvek groundsheet or polycryo groundsheet; toothpaste tabs; Frogg Togg Extreme Light rain jacket; Hydroblu water filter has better flow rate than Sawyer mini; Flextail gear tiny pump for quickly inflating sleeping pads; fuel canister refill adapter. That's it for now! Happy hiking!
I'm going to order some stuff Dixie, but I gotta get past Christmas first love. If I'm going to shop affiliate links then let them be yours. Thank you for everything, for thinking of every last little thing one could ever wonder about the AT and answering with grace, so that I have to remember less. It's a valuable service.
Whew!!! I thought you dropped an "F" bomb in talking about the gaiters, had to replay several times to finally hear "fuss"! Until I got confirmation I kept thinking "Oh no, not Dixie, you're too sweet!" Also the "loopy doodad" talking about the calendar made me chuckle! Thank you for the this list, I would like to try several of these items to start trying to go more lightweight. I have a few more years before I retire, and I would have to credit you with the urge to want to start attempting long hikes. I know already my eternal fiance (and hopefully in the near future wife) will have no interest in doing this, her idea of camping is an RV. But that's OK, I like having my solo time. Your videos bring such joy to me, and you are amazing how you capture the beauty of nature, even when she's not very gracious. Thank you Dixie!
I wore out 6 pair of Darn Tough socks over maybe 8 years. I sent them back and got 6 new pair. They are made in the USA (Vermont), and are REALLY "Darn Tough"! I now have several different weights and heights for all trail conditions. I pair them with Injinji toe sock liners for long duration hikes, and haven't had a blister since using the liner socks. I have just purchased a Zpacks dyneema wallet, which is not waterproof, but I got tired of using Ziploc freezer bags for a wallet because of the lack of organization, having had near heart attacks several times when my credit cards were hiding among the bills and receipts. I also just replaced my flat-woven dyneema bear bag line with Zpacks slick line, which is woven, but not flat, but it's lighter than my old bear bag line, and still has a 400 lb. breaking strength. I have more tarps and stake options than I can count, for every season, and a matching variety of stakes. I carry beefier stakes for tarp corner guy lines, and lighter ones for the midpoint stakeout locations. Forty years of hiking has schooled me on what works where, when, and how effectively. Great points on all your suggestions! Thanks again!!☺👍👊
I have the Culo Clean bidet attachment! I LOVE it!! You end up using an entire bottle of water, though. (At least I do.) So yeah, you maybe don’t want to use it on a trail that’s low on water.
To support small family businesses, I found several sellers on Etsy who make ultra light gear. My kids' stockings will have some UL pouches that attach to their pack straps for them to try out. Great video, Dixie. Thanks.
+1 to the BRS stove. I use Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon poles and while it may be hard to find them for under $30, they are fantastic for the price and I expect the aluminum version would be as well.
❤Good to know that backpacking doesn't have to cost "an arm and a leg." Yes, I am brand new to the game, and not too dedicated, so it's nice to learn of the more cost-effective things. ❤
I just got myself an Xboil.. it's from an inventor in Germany. Game changer for the alcohol stove lovers. I love mine. Great video. Greetings from Ireland ☘️☘️🇮🇪
For another FUD option, I highly recommend the Tinkle Belle - like the P Style, but with a silicone extension. As always, another great video! Thanks for all you do!
Many Turtle Fur products are under $30. They made the first fleece neck warmer fourty years ago, and have branched out into other head and neck wear in a variety of materials. Perfect for holiday gifts and at other times, too. P.S. I don't work there, but I love their products!
Great gear tips. Thanks. I still remember reading Colin Fletcher's books as a teenager in the mid 70s, and him recommending drilling lightening holes in the handle of a toothbrush.
I tried that ultralight toothbrush on my 2020 AT thru-hike. It only lasted 4 days. Bristles started falling out right away. (Fun fact-They are made for prison use.) I recommend avoiding this item but YMMV. I’ve used several feminine funnels and highly recommend the P-Style. It allows for “high flow” without overwhelming the nozzle/outflow (…I know TMI…) You can finish by squeegeeing, no paper required. Culo Clean is spectacular. I carry a very tiny plastic water bottle for dedicated use. -Granger
Buffs are great as well as an alternative to a bandana and have loads of use cases. I use them to cover my mouth and nose in the snow. As I like to hike with a cap, I use it as way to cover my neck in sunny weather.
I have the SheWee, PStyle AND the Pibella. I love the PIBELLA the best and it’s the smallest and lightest and most streamlined. However, ALL of them take a little practice in the shower, first. Once you get the hang of it, it’s MUCH easier than squatting. I don’t even have to take my pants down. I never hit the trail without one of them.
That Toaks spoon is good. Don't forget on the Sawyer Squeeze and mini to take the backflow accessory so you can flush the filter if it gets clogged. I forgot mine once on a backpacking trip and that slowed the filter down to a trickle.
I have narrowed it down to the tinkle Belle urination device but haven’t purchased yet. I’d love it if you could test that one! Very interested in this topic. I am almost 50 and gearing up to go on my first backpacking trip in the spring to celebrate my 50th! One of the things that has held me back is the back woods bathrooming dilemma.
I tried the Tinkle bell on my 2020 AT thruhike. It was fine for a while, but I stored it folded and the kink in the outflow began to restrict the drainage, so there was a backup of fluid that threatened to overflow. Yikes! Now I use a P-Style and highly recommend it. I usually “drop trow” but when privacy is an issue, or when rain or snow are part of the hike, the P-Style is great.
Just an FYI.. Atwood Rope makes a cord called Micro Cord. It's very light, strong, and cheap. Just a suggestion. I've used it a long with their static rope and have been extremely impressed. Great video Dixie. I love to see experienced people, who aren't bought and paid for by XXXX Co., giving great advice to the newbs. We appreciate it.
I have found the anodized aluminum is a lot better than the soft aluminum of your grease pot and doesn’t have as serious of health issues eith it. My grandparents had a serious health scare after they were married and the doctor asked them about their cooking pots. They had the soft aluminum and the Dr told them to switch to cast iron. Within a week they were a ton better. And you can find an anodized aluminum pot for under $30. I got my brs knock off stove for $5 and it has a piezo lighter on it. My trekking poles on Amazon were about $15. Walmart has great prices on hiking and camping gear. In my town there is a sporting gear store where they sell used gear. I use a trail bidet. I use it at home as well. It’s a Hygeinna. Now I have two. One for home and one for camping and hiking. I feel a lot cleaner between showers. Won’t travel Without it. The She Wee is the brand of female urine directer I’ve used. It’s ok but I find it sometimes leaks so it’s not as useful as I’d like. I’ve practiced using it here at home snd didn’t ever get confident with it. Sometimes it works like a dream and other times it makes a mess all over the place so I have never figured out what was the difference. Thanks for
If you're going to try out a backpacking bidet, I highly recommend checking out the Holey Hiker bidet (currently selling for $12.50). I've tried out a couple of different ones (including the Culo Clean). The Holey Hiker is a bit more limited in the bottles it will work with, but it's far more effective in its operation. It offers much higher water pressure and far less water usage compared to the Culo Clean.
I have a shewee and I say try out the PStyle! I’m going to be getting one soon. With the shewee you need to control your flow so you don’t overflow it. I’ve heard that’s less of a problem with the PStyle
Whoa whoa whoa, one minute advice on stuff and the next swearin like a sailor! lol. That shocked me so much I paused and rewound and yep.. the big one! 🤫
Aluminium should be anoxidised, with low PH values it can react to acidity. I recently send over research that got approved at my website you can read all about it. Apparently coffee reacts too over the years too on same aluminium pots, or kettles.. However, if you only boil water its safe. But you should too clean it. I did some research on the deodorant too, thats not the same issue aluminium pots have when reacting to axicity and warmth
Ziplock snack bag for my wallet, basically free because I just grab from my kitchen. I’ve always just used a strong black trash bag for a liner. Works fine for me. Never had an issue.
The Czech mess kit pot is about the same size and made of thin stainless steel. It even comes with a practical foldable handle. I don't mind cooking on aluminium every now and then... But putting it under an open fire would worry me.
Another good one, as always. A couple ideas: Classic SD Swiss Army Knife or Gerber Dime multitool. The clippable hand sanitizer bottles, Nitecore NU 25 headlamps!
Dyneema wallets. Most are a bit smaller than I like. I like to carry a little more cash and several cards. Once you get past a few cards and notes, the wallet is full. The next size up is too bud. A half inch added to every measurement would make them perfect. Gaiters. Definitely the Dirty Girls work.
From experience i can say that the "uyicoo portable travel bidet" as found on amazon works extremely well, so much that i use for home use daily for home use. It comes a three pack with three colors (red, white, and blue) and works with most 28mm thread bottles. Using a 710ml works best for me, and usually only require 6 squares to wipe the excess liquid on the butt. I've been using mine for several years now without issue.
Hi! I’ve tried 3 FUDs.. the Freshette, Go Girl and the Tinkle Bell. I much prefer the Freshette as it has a rigid funnel that can handle a fast stream (when you REALLY have to go) and it does not disconnect like the Go Girl and has a long enough tube (with optional connectors, too) unlike the Tinkle Bell. Hope this helps!
Hi Dixie, I really love hiking-out door, How do you start it? Would you address how to start for hiking? Do you have to apply for permit and something else? Would you kind make a video about this. I guess who really out there wanna know like me. Thank you very much, if you can.
Your gear recommendations are great. I am in full agreement about the trowel. Annnndddd, Congratulations on choosing to walk the AZT! You are going to love it! Hopefully I will see out there north of Flagstaff as I finish my NOBO effort from this past spring.
I've been wearing Hanes synthetic undies from Wal Mart for years. They hold up well and do a nice job wicking and drying out. Also, I've had Brooks synthetic running socks for literally a decade. They usually come in a 3 pack for less than $20.
My favorite under 30 dollar gear is my gaiters, but they are followed closely by my sun hat. I get really weak if it's too hot and I don't have shade. Having a wide brimmed hat to keep my neck cool and my eyes shaded takes enough of an edge off the heat that I can keep going and having fun.
I really enjoy these types of videos they are very helpful and have good tips for future hikers and current. looking forward to getting my calendar they look awesome.
There is only of you Dixie, Unique, Dedicated, and Delivering in your warm presence, my Xmas Present to you is, Great Health and all the Love, Thank you...... Robin
The Go Girl is also really good! Basically for female urination devices I would try at least one hard plastic one (easier to use and clean) and one more floppy silicone one (easier to store and in my opinion more comfortable to use) and see which type you like.
The best information I could find about aluminium pots is that you'd have to be chewing on the pot itself every day for months to ingest enough to make any detectable difference to your health. Cooking in one doesn't seem to be any more than the most theoretical of risks. For occasional use the docs say don't worry about it.
Nyloflume bags are absolutely going to fail, trust me. I went back to 2mm compactor bags. A little more weight but you can get a box of them and use them in the kitchen too. Much more cost efficient. As for other gear I have started to go for sustainably made gear. We love the outdoors and so I think we should help preserve it. As such I have started to use Kupilka pieces. My long spork and 12.5oz cup are made out of wood pulp left over from making other products and a polymer. A little extra weight? Not sure. More sustainably made than titanium and the like? Yepper.
I always take gaiters, they are soooo useful. But not the teeny ankle variety, I use goretex knee-length. Zipped together they make a waterproof sit-mat, they cover the calves going through stinging nettles in shorts, They make a great wrap for collecting firewood. Or a really tall wind-screen for the stove. Oh yes, and you can use them as gaiters too!
Great comment, love a multiuse item. Wondering how you make a windshield? I can't picture it.
@@mammyrambles2197 A couple of sticks or even trekking poles and a few inches of string/paracord ties the corner of the joined gaiters to the sticks. Position the stove behind the gaiters... (actually, I usually use 3 sticks if it's that windy, one in the centre to stop the gaiters ballooning like a kite!
I want to thank you and Frozen for getting me out on the trail at 68 will be doing the foothills trail in March love your AT Hike and the Florida Hike
Another vote for kula cloth! I was hesitant at first to get a "single purpose" piece of gear but having one has made backpacking much more comfortable. They also have fun prints including some artist designs with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the artist or charity organization.
That I also use and on every day hike as well 👌
Couple of additional ideas under $30-. Sea to Summit collapsible silicone x-cup or mug (I prefer the larger mug), Loop earplugs, fuel canisters, Tenacious Tape
For the GGG toothbrush, they always throw a little something in - I've gotten 3 (toothbrushes) that way...Likewise w/the bidet they carry.
thank you for this
this shows how budget friendly camping can be
would you be interested in trying the rain-kilts-skirts or are they not your thing...??
a rain-kilt-skirt compliments your poncho and you could have fun trying the many multiple-uses for each that i have compiled a list for
here goes have fun...
some advantages for a poncho and or rain-kilt-skirt or combination over rain-jackets or rain-pants-leggings for multi-purpose use thereof
some may require strategic placed eyelets or looped-webbing added for some of ye above for extra versatility
1 equipment cover
2 ground-sheet
3 keep equipment off wet-damp floor
4 sitting on
5 mini-shelter
6 emergency-sled
7 emergency- tarp for gear or over hole in tent or tarp
8 changing mat
9 tent-footprint
10 gear carrier
11 stretcher
12 hammock
13 water-catcher
14 water-carrier
15 gear flotation
16 mattress-insulator [stuff with leaves and-such]
17 sleeping-bag
18 wind-break
19 repair-patches for tent and-such
20 smoke-signal
21 sail for small boat or raft
22 dummy or decoy
23 sleeping-bag cover
24 camouflage
25 if you have orange or other suitable colour poncho or rain-kilt-skirt can use as a signal-flag for help flag for mountain-air rescue
For cleaning up on trail in a way that keeps me far away from water sources which i could contaminate, I cut the top half off of an empty gallon milk jug and use it as a sink. The sides fold in and it lays flat inside a gallon zip lock in my pack's netting area. Very lightweight ....
For small pots for 2 or 3 people, I went to a couple of thrift stores (like Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc.) and found some really cheap stainless steel pots for less than $2 to put in my back pack, and they even came with lids and removeable handles.
Yes! I found the collapsible cup, new in package, less than 5 dollars!
My wife used the pstyle on the JMT and found it revolutionary. Didn’t compare it to other types but she loved it. I used the bidet you mentioned also on the JMT and I won’t be going back.
"revolutionary" is a great way to describe it!!
I love my p style. it is so convenient to go and not be exposed. it's a great product
The Culo is wonderful! Reduces the need for lots of wipes & TP. And doesn't take up much space or use tons of water.
Thank you Dixie, lots of great gear!
GGG sent me one of those toothbrushes gratis with my Cnoc order. My first thought was COOL! but after using it -- it's much too short to get the back teeth. 😕
Trowel: I use a snow stake. 1oz, $6
A few thoughts:
1) I'd recommend against the titanium spoon. Most of them have a gritty finish (like in the vid), which a lot of people can't stand. More than that, though, there IS what I think is a better alternative. The Humangear GoBites Duo is a two-piece utensil that snaps together, is longer than the titanium spoons, is every bit as strong as you need it to be to stir a ramen bomb in those bags and has fork tines that you can actually use. It runs about $7-$8. It weighs about .08 oz. more than the Toaks spoon sold at REI.
2) As was said in the vid, the standard size Sawyer is the way to go. I had the mini going up Whitney and damn near passed out because of how long it took to process my daily water. The flow is just pee stream style. The trick is seeing if you can find a regular Sawyer for a few dollars less on its own, rather than as part of a bundle, which you really don't need because you'll upgrade pretty much everything in that bundle.
3) Cascade Mountain trekking poles are great. They're cheap, light and I haven't even had to replace my points since I got them mountains and miles ago, roughly 5 years. You WILL go through a few sets of rubber tips, though.
4) Gaiters are a nice way to personalize your outfit ... and almost completely unnecessary. I got a set a few years back and just never wear them. This is definitely a case of seeing if you need them before getting them. Don't get them in case you will need them. Most of us only do a few types of hikes in a few different terrains. If you don't have a problem with sand and dirt in your shoes, you can skip the gaiters. Obviously invest in Buffs. :)
Yeah, me too on the gritty titanium, nails on a chalkboard in your mouth, yuck! But..... Toaks, and probably others, makes a polished version. Way better. And since I happened to have some super fine sandpaper - like all the way up to 10K, I used it on all the spoon part that would be in my mouth. More comfortable for sure.
You must have received a better pair of Cascade Mountain trekking poles than I received. Mine vibrated and rattled so bad they were a major distraction. I immediately returned them.
@@daven.7685 I never have any vibration issues that aren't of my own doing. I bought mine a half dozen years ago, though. Maybe there are differences among product generations and models. i bought them based on a "cheap gear" video back in the day.
That said, that BRS stove everyone loves? I bought one around that same time, it petered out after a dozen seconds and I said I'm done with it. Scores of positive YT reviews later, I'm still fine with spending $26 more on a PR2.
@@bobthetomato8375 I like that the GoBites model packs smaller and has usable fork tines. My big concern was if it was stiff enough to work food around in those bags, but it's defiinitely more sturdy than I'd expect a two-piecer to be. I had the other spoons. Just didn't care for them. Of course, if you're not a weight weenie then you just buy a milkshake spoon. :)
My daughter discovered the Kula Cloth, and really like them!
But a kayaking buddy swears by the plastic transmission fluid funnels for female urination. She says they are lightweight, dry quickly, and reach far enough from one's body that undressing is minimal. While it might be awkward to carry inside a pack, a hole could be drilled in the top edge (side) to allow a string to be attached for hanging outside the pack.
Hope you and yours enjoy the holidays, Dixie!
If you go through a lot of CD's or DVD's, I suggest saving the plastic container.
You can use it to protect your toilet paper. It will protect it from moisture and getting crushed.
Thanks for the video.
that's a new tip i haven't heard before. thanks :)
I just discovered your channel and have been binge watching from 4 years ago. Much respect!!
I just came here to say that the P-style has changed my life and I still get excited sometimes when I use it, two years later. There's just something about being able to pee like a dude that makes me so happy. I only wish I could have bought one years ago (and so do my knees).
I've only had the Kula cloth for this past hiking season but I love it too.
Love you Dixie! I just finished the Ocean to Lake Trail in South Florida. For five days I packed 1 1/2 pints grape tomatoes, one jar artichokes, one jar cocktail olives all in individual ziploc bags along with tortillas and turkey pepperoni as my staples on the cheap! They stay unsquished in the easy access net of my backpack.
Thank you! Very helpful never heard of garage grown gear before actually so their prices are reasonable.
Bamboo is light weight and cheap. Tooth brushes and spoons!
I use a bamboo toothbrush and carry a wooden spoon on trail. I may look for a bamboo option, too. I avoid plastic where I can.
I bought a BRS stove after I fumbled my Pocket Rocket while it was screwed on a fuel container. I'm going by a Phoenix REI next week. As long as the Pocket Rocket hasn't been "updated" and still weighs less than a pound costing under $150 I will buy one. Then I'll drop the flimsy, unstable BRS into a trashcan before I get out of the REI lot.
Another cheap item I bring is a nanofibre cloth for drying tents, washing my face, drying feet and occasionally even dishes. It's especially nice in colder temperatures when tents are slow to dry and cleanliness is generally more difficult. Then just hang it off the pack to dry.
I used the CuloClean Bidet on my Thruhike of South Island New Zealand and found it very helpful to stay clean and feel fresher.
To work out the angle though when you’re using it in a long drop loo can be challenging, one might spray the toilet seat otherwise… 😮
Obviously no issue when outside. Still use it now back home, as I don’t have a bidet and I love the cleanliness
I admire your attention to the details! Kind thanks 😉 &🌷 Happy Lucky New Year☘️
Thanks for the usual great content, Dixie. I love how you make backpacking fun and accessible to newcomers.
Happy holidays, all! 🌲
I would recommend the Pibella. It's more direct than other FUD I've used, and it leaves less of a mess that needs to be cleaned up.
Great video as always. High quality info. Great pacing. Your videos are relaxed and yet stay on topic and contain little to no fluff.
I also bring wooden matches the you can strike on anything to light. Put in a canster to protect Take Care All
Nice video (again)! Here are a few more under or close to $30 items. Backpacking pillows, such as Trekology; Soto Amicus stove, more efficient and windprotected than BRS, though heavier; Nitecore NU25 headlamp is close to $30, if on sale; Tyvek groundsheet or polycryo groundsheet; toothpaste tabs; Frogg Togg Extreme Light rain jacket; Hydroblu water filter has better flow rate than Sawyer mini; Flextail gear tiny pump for quickly inflating sleeping pads; fuel canister refill adapter. That's it for now! Happy hiking!
I'm going to order some stuff Dixie, but I gotta get past Christmas first love. If I'm going to shop affiliate links then let them be yours. Thank you for everything, for thinking of every last little thing one could ever wonder about the AT and answering with grace, so that I have to remember less. It's a valuable service.
Cool..., and nice to ref for sort of a Christmas gear wish list 😉👌
Just ordered the grease pot! Love it. I was wondering where that old beat up thang came from. It will be second only to my MSR skillet. Thanks Dixie
Thank you for this! I’m starting from scratch and it’s good to know what less expensive smaller items are good!
I love having pocket bellows! They make firestarting so much easier, and they've very cheap.
I bought a pStyle and it has been amazing! No problem at all using it
Great video! Would like to suggest trying the Holey Hiker bidet and compare. It's more water efficient.
Whew!!! I thought you dropped an "F" bomb in talking about the gaiters, had to replay several times to finally hear "fuss"! Until I got confirmation I kept thinking "Oh no, not Dixie, you're too sweet!" Also the "loopy doodad" talking about the calendar made me chuckle!
Thank you for the this list, I would like to try several of these items to start trying to go more lightweight. I have a few more years before I retire, and I would have to credit you with the urge to want to start attempting long hikes. I know already my eternal fiance (and hopefully in the near future wife) will have no interest in doing this, her idea of camping is an RV. But that's OK, I like having my solo time. Your videos bring such joy to me, and you are amazing how you capture the beauty of nature, even when she's not very gracious. Thank you Dixie!
That sunrise volcano pic is really pretty 🌄
I wore out 6 pair of Darn Tough socks over maybe 8 years. I sent them back and got 6 new pair. They are made in the USA (Vermont), and are REALLY "Darn Tough"! I now have several different weights and heights for all trail conditions. I pair them with Injinji toe sock liners for long duration hikes, and haven't had a blister since using the liner socks. I have just purchased a Zpacks dyneema wallet, which is not waterproof, but I got tired of using Ziploc freezer bags for a wallet because of the lack of organization, having had near heart attacks several times when my credit cards were hiding among the bills and receipts. I also just replaced my flat-woven dyneema bear bag line with Zpacks slick line, which is woven, but not flat, but it's lighter than my old bear bag line, and still has a 400 lb. breaking strength.
I have more tarps and stake options than I can count, for every season, and a matching variety of stakes. I carry beefier stakes for tarp corner guy lines, and lighter ones for the midpoint stakeout locations. Forty years of hiking has schooled me on what works where, when, and how effectively.
Great points on all your suggestions!
Thanks again!!☺👍👊
Bidets are awesome! Never looked back since switching to one, and I now use it on a daily basis, too! Kinder on the environment as well!
I am totally gonna get calenders Dixie. That's awesome.
I have the Culo Clean bidet attachment! I LOVE it!! You end up using an entire bottle of water, though. (At least I do.) So yeah, you maybe don’t want to use it on a trail that’s low on water.
Keep them videos a rollin.
Looks like I might not be able to thru hike the ATthis year as I had planned.
Maybe next year….
To support small family businesses, I found several sellers on Etsy who make ultra light gear. My kids' stockings will have some UL pouches that attach to their pack straps for them to try out. Great video, Dixie. Thanks.
+1 to the BRS stove. I use Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon poles and while it may be hard to find them for under $30, they are fantastic for the price and I expect the aluminum version would be as well.
❤Good to know that backpacking doesn't have to cost "an arm and a leg." Yes, I am brand new to the game, and not too dedicated, so it's nice to learn of the more cost-effective things. ❤
I just got myself an Xboil.. it's from an inventor in Germany. Game changer for the alcohol stove lovers. I love mine. Great video. Greetings from Ireland ☘️☘️🇮🇪
For another FUD option, I highly recommend the Tinkle Belle - like the P Style, but with a silicone extension. As always, another great video! Thanks for all you do!
Many Turtle Fur products are under $30. They made the first fleece neck warmer fourty years ago, and have branched out into other head and neck wear in a variety of materials. Perfect for holiday gifts and at other times, too.
P.S. I don't work there, but I love their products!
Great gear tips. Thanks. I still remember reading Colin Fletcher's books as a teenager in the mid 70s, and him recommending drilling lightening holes in the handle of a toothbrush.
I tried that ultralight toothbrush on my 2020 AT thru-hike. It only lasted 4 days. Bristles started falling out right away. (Fun fact-They are made for prison use.) I recommend avoiding this item but YMMV.
I’ve used several feminine funnels and highly recommend the P-Style. It allows for “high flow” without overwhelming the nozzle/outflow (…I know TMI…) You can finish by squeegeeing, no paper required.
Culo Clean is spectacular. I carry a very tiny plastic water bottle for dedicated use.
-Granger
I like the titanium spoon with the shiny bowl.
You definitely got me with Lifetime warranty socks. I'm sure I'll be getting some of these.
Thanks!!!
I like and use the EllaPee as a urinating device. My favorite of the four I have tried
Buffs are great as well as an alternative to a bandana and have loads of use cases. I use them to cover my mouth and nose in the snow. As I like to hike with a cap, I use it as way to cover my neck in sunny weather.
I have the SheWee, PStyle AND the Pibella. I love the PIBELLA the best and it’s the smallest and lightest and most streamlined. However, ALL of them take a little practice in the shower, first. Once you get the hang of it, it’s MUCH easier than squatting. I don’t even have to take my pants down. I never hit the trail without one of them.
Add Lady J to the list to check out.
Surprised you didn't mention Injinie toe socks.
That Toaks spoon is good. Don't forget on the Sawyer Squeeze and mini to take the backflow accessory so you can flush the filter if it gets clogged. I forgot mine once on a backpacking trip and that slowed the filter down to a trickle.
Get the Polished Toaks spoon!
You can use your clean water bottle if it has a sports cap to backflush the filters, no need for that giant syringe that way.
I have narrowed it down to the tinkle Belle urination device but haven’t purchased yet. I’d love it if you could test that one! Very interested in this topic. I am almost 50 and gearing up to go on my first backpacking trip in the spring to celebrate my 50th! One of the things that has held me back is the back woods bathrooming dilemma.
I tried the Tinkle bell on my 2020 AT thruhike. It was fine for a while, but I stored it folded and the kink in the outflow began to restrict the drainage, so there was a backup of fluid that threatened to overflow. Yikes! Now I use a P-Style and highly recommend it. I usually “drop trow” but when privacy is an issue, or when rain or snow are part of the hike, the P-Style is great.
A hiker designed and makes a nice bidet - Holey Hiker Bidet.
Thank you, Miss Dixie, for the helpful information, and kit evaluation. Cheers.
7:18. I've never heard of pack liners. Thanks
Just an FYI.. Atwood Rope makes a cord called Micro Cord. It's very light, strong, and cheap. Just a suggestion. I've used it a long with their static rope and have been extremely impressed. Great video Dixie. I love to see experienced people, who aren't bought and paid for by XXXX Co., giving great advice to the newbs. We appreciate it.
I have found the anodized aluminum is a lot better than the soft aluminum of your grease pot and doesn’t have as serious of health issues eith it. My grandparents had a serious health scare after they were married and the doctor asked them about their cooking pots. They had the soft aluminum and the Dr told them to switch to cast iron. Within a week they were a ton better. And you can find an anodized aluminum pot for under $30. I got my brs knock off stove for $5 and it has a piezo lighter on it. My trekking poles on Amazon were about $15. Walmart has great prices on hiking and camping gear. In my town there is a sporting gear store where they sell used gear. I use a trail bidet. I use it at home as well. It’s a Hygeinna. Now I have two. One for home and one for camping and hiking. I feel a lot cleaner between showers. Won’t travel
Without it. The She Wee is the brand of female urine directer I’ve used. It’s ok but I find it sometimes leaks so it’s not as useful as I’d like. I’ve practiced using it here at home snd didn’t ever get confident with it. Sometimes it works like a dream and other times it makes a mess all over the place so I have never figured out what was the difference. Thanks for
Would love a Calendar but I only use VISA Take Care and Happy Holidays to All
If you're going to try out a backpacking bidet, I highly recommend checking out the Holey Hiker bidet (currently selling for $12.50). I've tried out a couple of different ones (including the Culo Clean). The Holey Hiker is a bit more limited in the bottles it will work with, but it's far more effective in its operation. It offers much higher water pressure and far less water usage compared to the Culo Clean.
I have a shewee and I say try out the PStyle! I’m going to be getting one soon. With the shewee you need to control your flow so you don’t overflow it. I’ve heard that’s less of a problem with the PStyle
I was able to snag Ozark Trail long handled spoons for $2 last year. I believe they are about $5 on Amazon now. I buy my cordage from Dutchware Gear.
Whoa whoa whoa, one minute advice on stuff and the next swearin like a sailor! lol. That shocked me so much I paused and rewound and yep.. the big one! 🤫
Aluminium should be anoxidised, with low PH values it can react to acidity. I recently send over research that got approved at my website you can read all about it. Apparently coffee reacts too over the years too on same aluminium pots, or kettles.. However, if you only boil water its safe. But you should too clean it. I did some research on the deodorant too, thats not the same issue aluminium pots have when reacting to axicity and warmth
Great Video. Thanks for all the insights.
Using eBay and Amazon in Canada you can find titanium long handle sporks for around $5 and titanium 750ml mugs around $30.
Ziplock snack bag for my wallet, basically free because I just grab from my kitchen. I’ve always just used a strong black trash bag for a liner. Works fine for me. Never had an issue.
What a great vlog to post before Christmas! Some great stocking stuffing ideas. (BTW, Love GGG!)
The Czech mess kit pot is about the same size and made of thin stainless steel. It even comes with a practical foldable handle. I don't mind cooking on aluminium every now and then... But putting it under an open fire would worry me.
Another good one, as always. A couple ideas: Classic SD Swiss Army Knife or Gerber Dime multitool. The clippable hand sanitizer bottles, Nitecore NU 25 headlamps!
Dyneema wallets. Most are a bit smaller than I like. I like to carry a little more cash and several cards. Once you get past a few cards and notes, the wallet is full. The next size up is too bud. A half inch added to every measurement would make them perfect.
Gaiters. Definitely the Dirty Girls work.
From experience i can say that the "uyicoo portable travel bidet" as found on amazon works extremely well, so much that i use for home use daily for home use. It comes a three pack with three colors (red, white, and blue) and works with most 28mm thread bottles. Using a 710ml works best for me, and usually only require 6 squares to wipe the excess liquid on the butt. I've been using mine for several years now without issue.
Hi! I’ve tried 3 FUDs.. the Freshette, Go Girl and the Tinkle Bell. I much prefer the Freshette as it has a rigid funnel that can handle a fast stream (when you REALLY have to go) and it does not disconnect like the Go Girl and has a long enough tube (with optional connectors, too) unlike the Tinkle Bell. Hope this helps!
Hi Dixie, I really love hiking-out door, How do you start it? Would you address how to start for hiking? Do you have to apply for permit and something else? Would you kind make a video about this. I guess who really out there wanna know like me. Thank you very much, if you can.
Trail snacks - that’s why tangerines were invented.
Courtesy of Half Vast Flying
Thank you
Your gear recommendations are great. I am in full agreement about the trowel. Annnndddd, Congratulations on choosing to walk the AZT! You are going to love it! Hopefully I will see out there north of Flagstaff as I finish my NOBO effort from this past spring.
Great pics. Thanks for the video
Trowls are cool. I also like the tent stake idea.
I've been wearing Hanes synthetic undies from Wal Mart for years. They hold up well and do a nice job wicking and drying out. Also, I've had Brooks synthetic running socks for literally a decade. They usually come in a 3 pack for less than $20.
I DYI lots of gear because $20. is ridiculous for a poop scoop. A trail bidet with a dedicated bottle works better for me. I got two for $10. 🌿
My favorite under 30 dollar gear is my gaiters, but they are followed closely by my sun hat. I get really weak if it's too hot and I don't have shade. Having a wide brimmed hat to keep my neck cool and my eyes shaded takes enough of an edge off the heat that I can keep going and having fun.
What brand of sun hat?
Good Information Lady- Thanks
Handiwipes work great in place of a bandana, at least for cook kit.
That’s a great list. I have several of those things and they serve me well.
I really enjoy these types of videos they are very helpful and have good tips for future hikers and current. looking forward to getting my calendar they look awesome.
Thanks !
Merry Christmas Dixie! 🌻
There is only of you Dixie, Unique, Dedicated, and Delivering in your warm presence, my Xmas Present to you is, Great Health and all the Love, Thank you...... Robin
The Go Girl is also really good! Basically for female urination devices I would try at least one hard plastic one (easier to use and clean) and one more floppy silicone one (easier to store and in my opinion more comfortable to use) and see which type you like.
The best information I could find about aluminium pots is that you'd have to be chewing on the pot itself every day for months to ingest enough to make any detectable difference to your health. Cooking in one doesn't seem to be any more than the most theoretical of risks. For occasional use the docs say don't worry about it.
Nyloflume bags are absolutely going to fail, trust me. I went back to 2mm compactor bags. A little more weight but you can get a box of them and use them in the kitchen too. Much more cost efficient.
As for other gear I have started to go for sustainably made gear. We love the outdoors and so I think we should help preserve it. As such I have started to use Kupilka pieces. My long spork and 12.5oz cup are made out of wood pulp left over from making other products and a polymer. A little extra weight? Not sure. More sustainably made than titanium and the like? Yepper.
It's not under $30, but you won't need the insoles if you use Vibram FiveFingers trail shoes.
Thanks so so much😊
Check out the pibella and Holey Hiker backpacking bidet