Fieldcraft expert Bill Stoker from Stokermatic Youtube Channel joins the show to discuss essential skills while out in the wilderness. He is a wealth of knowledge and information. Derek and Carl also discuss strategies for these strange times -- head to the hills or hunker down? Carl discusses how to access National Parks that shut down while Derek encourages "onion hands." FYI - this episode was recorded over a week ago and things are changing fast so please keep that in mind.

Check out Bill Stoker's awesome channel!

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Please check out our latest video: How to Find a Sasquatch Part 1

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At times there are some strange things afoot on the trail. Derek and Carl explore some of these strange cases. Carl thinks Derek struggles with his story-telling skills. And Carl responds to the critical remarks from many fellow adventurers regarding the Buff.

Check out our latest video: How to Find a Sasquatch Part 1...just released!

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It's that time of year when everybody comes out with their "best of" gear list for current and new models. If you've been listening for long enough you have probably figured out that Derek and Carl do not follow the pack. What about gear that has stood the test of time -- gear you probably have if you've been hiking for a while. And what about gear that's still around that shouldn't be? Maybe there's a way to repurpose some of that stuff. Also, a listener challenges Derek and Carl on their reaction to limiting packs to 25% of one's body weight. Carl fights back.

Check out our latest video: How to Find a Sasquatch Part 1...just released!

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This is not a training episode! At least it's not in the traditional sense. Whether you're looking to knock down some miles or your permit dictates a heavy day, there are some ways to prepare for your longest day on the trail. Derek and Carl discuss strategies for putting more miles in on the trail. Awesome Youtuber "JK is Hiking" joins the show with his own story and his own perspective. Also, the Snickers bar debate is revisited.

Check out our latest video: How to Find a Sasquatch Part 1...just released!

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Women should never hike alone. Your pack weight should be about 25% of your body weight. These pieces of advice (and more) were submitted to Derek and Carl by fellow adventurers who seem to think they received some bad input. The guys discuss nine such suggestions and, of course, have serious disagreements. Also, they update their upcoming trips. And finally, have John Muir quotes become cliches?

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Are you bringing items that should be left home? Everybody has an item or two (or more) in their pack that could easily be replaced with a lighter option or simply gotten rid of. Derek and Carl examine a number of these items that don't always get the attention they deserve but probably end up in your pack anyway. Will they suggest to ditch gear that's near and dear to you or will they downplay the importance of a critical piece of your arsenal? Probably. Also, Derek introduces the most outrageous gear people have brought in his trivia questions.

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It's hard to find the right people to go with...but it's worth it! Expert Devin Ashby from famed Youtube Channel Backcountry Exposure joins the show to share some of his experiences with different folk on the trail as well as the dos and don'ts of setting up a group trip. Derek and Carl come up with their own list of ways to find the right people to backpack with. Also, Derek has the most awkward response to a listener comment...maybe ever!

Check out Devin's Channel Backcountry Exposure

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Are you packing extra items because you're simply concerned about the 'what if?' Probably. Most of us do that. But there are ways to prevent overpacking these unnecessary pieces of gear. There are lighter options and better methods to make sure you're simply not overloading your pack. Also, was Derek a podcast saboteur in the last episode as he made judgments about gear he'd never tried out?

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When you go to your local outdoor store or shop online you find the usual big name gear companies that dominate the market. Derek and Carl have 5 up and coming gear companies that you may or may not have heard of before that can help make your trip better. For ultralighters to newbies to budget conscious folk to clothing wearers to people who eat food...there's something for everyone! Also Derek and Carl get into a minor argument about trivia (shocking).

Rakaia Designs even quoted Derek from this episode. Check them out!

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This is not your typical list of backpacking skills. Youtuber Kevin Outdoors joins the show to provide some insight on a few skills that will make your trip better. Derek and Carl then chip in with a couple of their own unexpected trail talents. Also, Derek administers a trivia that causes some controversy. 

Check out Kevin Outdoors' Youtube Channel. He's got some great stuff!

Twitter Account: @BackpackingBli1

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