Had a total turnaround on bushcraft-style routes after doing the AT in Georgia

I used to think lightweight ultralight gear was the only way to go, but hiking a 14 mile stretch with just a tarp and a ferro rod changed my mind completely. Saw how much more self reliant I felt when I didn't have a stove or tent, just a knife and some cordage. Anyone else ditch the fancy gear for a more primitive approach on their last trip?

3 comments

3 Comments

sullivan.finley20d agoTop Commenter

I get what you're saying, and wet feet are a real problem. I've had to stop mid-trail more than once to wring out my socks and tape up blisters. What worked for me was carrying a small, lightweight wool shirt to sleep in and always keeping a spare pair of socks in a dry bag inside my pack, not just in my pockets. It's not about being tough, it's about knowing how to make do with less, and that includes planning for the basics like dry feet.

the_james20d ago

Yeah but a ferro rod ain't gonna help when your feet are soaked and you're out of dry socks two days in.

julia_miller2420d ago

Get over yourself dude. A ferro rod and some cordage isn't gonna replace a proper first aid kit or a way to treat water. Honestly, I get wanting to feel self reliant but being miserable and cold because you wanted to feel like a caveman doesn't make you a better hiker. Tbh, I'd rather have dry socks and a hot meal than some romanticized idea of survival.