Wilderness Collective Motorcycle Trip Packing List

Note: This packing list applies to the Sequoia to Yosemite Dual Sport Motorcycle Trip.

I recently got back from a Wilderness Collective motorcycle trip (WC-024) and wanted to share some info on it. While I previously gave an abbreviated breakdown of the entire event, the even shorter version is that if you get the chance to go and don’t usually find yourself riding dual sport bikes, jump on this trip.

Here's the packing list that Wilderness Collective provided me:

• Backpacking size sleeping bag rated at 0°F - 30°F.
• Ground Pad (foam or inflatable)
• Compression bag for packing clothes
• 1 pair of pants (any type of durable pant will do)
• 2 or 3 moisture wicking t-shirts
• Lightweight easy-to-pack footwear for camp.
• 2 or 3 pairs of riding socks
• Warmer top or lightweight insulated jacket
• Sunglasses
• Waterproof shell jacket
• Swim shorts
• First layer style thermal underwear top and bottom
• Minimal personal toiletries
• Headlamp
• Motorcycle license

Other than your sleeping bag and ground pad, you'll be carrying everything you've brought on your back. This makes it essential to pack as light and compactly as possible.

While your mileage will definitely vary, here’s what I brought:

EMS Fencemender Pants
If I can only bring one pair of pants, these are them. They’re not breathable nor made to be super quick drying but they’re incredibly durable and quite comfortable. I bought a pair on sale and after breaking them in, I went back and bought another for future use.

Under Armour Compression Shirt
I’ve found that using a compression shirt as my true base layer greatly increases my comfort level when wearing a backpack for an extended period of time. It keeps any friction from the straps in check and is wicking so I don’t overheat.

ExOfficio Boxer Briefs
The trip is 3-4 days but you only need one pair of underwear if you have the right pair. These things are comfortable, dry quickly, and don’t end up smelling like you’ve been wearing them for days. Though you’ll most likely have the opportunity to wash them in a creek if you truly wanted to.

REI Lightweight Long Underwear
When I saw this item on the list, I thought about not bringing them because I almost never need thermal underwear for anything. But for events like this, I tend to put trust in the organizer. That said, I only used mine once (for sleeping) but I’m a cold blooded New Englander and tend to run pretty hot. Oh but I did see some of my fellow riders put them on in the middle of rides. Then again, they were wearing lightweight hiking pants too.

Outdoor Research Sequence Long Sleeve 1/4 Zip
This is one amazing piece of clothing. It can handle both hot and cold temps really well and makes an excellent base layer. I wore this over the compression shirt and under my hard shell and was never uncomfortable.

SmartWool PhD Ski Socks
With all the mud, snow, and water crossings (at least on my trip), I recommend bringing two pairs so you can alternate every other day. I swear by the PhD line of SmartWool and these ski sock length versions were the perfect height for riding boots. My feet never felt better.

*EMS Men's Power Stretch 1/4 Zip
I saw many puffy jackets on this trip but I preferred my fleece pullover as a solid insulation layer top. Just something that I’ve had forever and it works really well. I also don’t have to worry about it ripping like a puffy jacket. One guy’s puffy was more duct tape at the end than anything else. The only downside of a fleece is that it’s fairly bulky.
*They don't make mine anymore so I linked to the latest version which is nearly identical but includes a built in hood.

Outdoor Research Mentor Jacket
I brought a jacket that’s really served me well over the years but you could probably get away with any kind of good water/windproof shell you have hanging around. While I got this jacket for free many years ago, if I had to buy something today, I’d be comfortable with any of the options from REI. I believe Wilderness Collective used to issue the Sierra Designs 60/40 Short Parka and while it seems like a pretty awesome jacket, nowadays you have to supply your own.

SureFire Minimus
After the trip I bought a new headlamp, the Black Diamond Spot and think I’ll switch to it for future trips because of it’s integrated red light and use of AAA batteries instead of CR123s. I do still love the simplicity of the Minimus...

These next two items are required but will stay in the support truck. Since you won't be carrying them, making them ultralight ins't necessary but it certainly helps if you're flying with just carry on (like I did).

Sleeping Bag - Marmot Plasma 15
If you can only afford one of something, my recommendation is to buy the best you can. When it was new, this sleeping bag was the lightest 15 degree bag on the market and it packs down insanely small. The temperature rating also covers the majority of climates for the trips I do so I knew it wouldn't have any problem handling this particular trip.

Ground Pad - Sea to Summit Ultralight
I planned on bringing my Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest SOlite but was lucky enough to snag this new pad for almost $45. To give you and idea on its packed size, it shrinks down to the size of a soda can. Yeah. While the Therm-a-Rest is bulky, it’s super lightweight and fairly comfortable. And even if you’re taller like me, get the Small and you’ll save some money and bulkiness.

Extras

These items weren’t on the packing list but I highly recommend bringing them.

Buff
This is a must have for so many reasons. In the case of this trip, it'll keep you from breathing in dust if you pop your helmet visor open but it's also great for those cold morning rides when the wind starts to creep down your shirt. It also takes up practically zero space in your bag or pocket. Here's all the different ways you can wear one.

Bodyglide (repackaged)
I’ve never ridden over 300 miles off road so I wasn’t sure if I’d be chafing somewhere on my legs, or even my shoulders from the backpack so it’s nice to have some protection. Repackaging Bodyglide (or even deodorant) into a small flip-top container from REI saves a lot of space and weight but I have my eye on a new method. An empty chapstick tube sounds like a great idea and it would make application a lot easier than it currently is.

Source WLPS Low Profile 3L Hydration System
Truth be told, the hydration bladder Wilderness Collective provided was pretty junky. Some of the bite valves came off and the overall build just isn’t as good as other options on the market. I’ve used Source for years and won’t go back to even using Camelbak, let alone whatever brand Wilderness Collective used. Just make sure you get the Helix Bite Valve Kit. It comes with the Storm Push-Pull Valve Kit which just drives me crazy.

Wrapping Up

If I were to go again, I’d be tempted to ditch their backpack and bring my own. If you watch their videos, you can see different ones in use so it seems they haven’t settled on a good partner but I would’ve loved to get one of the collaboration bags they did with Boreas Gear. If I were bringing my own backpack, it would be the GORUCK GR1 (26L) with their new Stabilizer Belt (which appears to have been pulled from their online store recently).

Ditch the hydration bladder they provide and bring the Source bladder I recommended above. But keep their backpack even if it's low quality. You're part of a team, don't be the odd man out. There's also a shared misery among the riders as zipper pulls and webbing fail one by one.

At the end of the day, pack light, pack smart, and ditch the non-essentials. Enjoy the ride.

Photos by Steve Dubbeldam and Jay Gullion

Wilderness Collective Review: Sequoia to Yosemite

More and more I've been choosing experiences over material things and lately I feel completely confident that I’ve made the correct decision in thinking this way.

Since watching the first videos of the Wilderness Collective's motorcycle trips, I knew I wanted to do one but it always seemed a bit out of reach financially, even if it's sort of a bucket list type of trip for me. Side note: I don’t really like the term “bucket list” but I don’t have an alternative at the moment.

Long story short, the Wilderness Collective Sequioa to Yosemite Dual Sport Motorcycle Tour called to me and on September 29, 2015, I answered the call and booked my trip. The best part is, I pulled the trigger during their Kickstarter campaign and got the trip for $1,000 off. Way too good to pass up.

Let me offer a spoiler though as you’re probably about to ask me, “is it worth the money?” and I have to say, yes, it most certainly worth it. But remember, I'm a believer that experiences are worth more than “things." This trip is truly something to experience.

Look, if you're used to roughin' it on your own with some ultralight cuben fiber stuff sacks and eating dehydrated beans while hitchhiking on the cheap, this trip just may not be for you. But what this trip provides is so much more than that. Stop wasting your time planning potential routes, leave your camera behind (they have a professional photographer and videographer riding along), and don't even think of packing your titanium spork for meals. Did I mention they've brought in some of the best chefs of the LA area (at least on my trip) to cook breakfast lunch and dinner for you?

Being able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment isn't something I'm used to doing. I usually sit on the planning end of things and I never get to be treated like the "guest" or "client" and I have to say that I really enjoyed it. Their spartan but top quality crew handled everything that needed handling and left the riding to us riders without being weighed down by the minutiae of the day to day.

I planned on on this review being a lot longer than it currently is but I'm going to end things early. I even planned on breaking down the cost of the motorcycle rental, insurance, gas, maintenance costs, spare parts, use of the Icon Variant helmet, Elsinore boots, and body armor, or the Icon gloves, backpack, and hydration bladder you get to keep, or the use of the Poler tents, Snow Peak chairs, professional photographer, and chef but I've simply decided to ask if you would take my word for it when I say this trip is worth it.

At the end of the day, you'll know if this trip is for you and nothing I can say will sway you in either direction.

Buy the ticket, take the ride.

Photos by Steve Dubbeldam and Jay Gullion

In Search of a 2 Man Tent

I’ve been looking for a new tent and think I’ve found one that I’m ready to try.

Criteria:

• 2 man capacity
• $200-$400 (ideally, cost includes footprint)
• 3 - 4.9 lbs (as close to 3 as possible)
• 2 doors (and 2 vestibules)
• Bath tub floor
• Sold by REI (love their guarantee and I get a dividend back)
• Great bang for the buck

Planned Use:

I’d be lying if I said this tent would be mostly used for true backpacking but in reality, my near future holds mostly car camping with the occasional overnight backpacking trip.


My Style:

I prefer to buy things once and don’t mind paying a little more if it’s a better value in the long run. “Some things cost more because they’re worth more.” [The trick is finding out which things are worth their cost.]


My Current Top Picks:

I’ve been debating mostly between the Big Agnes Rattlesnake SL 2 mtnGLO ($349) and the REI Half Dome 2 ($199) and have all but settled on the Half Dome 2 because of my current (and near future) needs as well as its low impact to my wallet. While I think the interior lights idea of the Big Agnes tent is neat, it's not a deal breaker for me at all. In fact, I could buy the Half Dome 2 and the Big Agnes mtnGLO Light Accessory Kit and still have $110 left over when compared to the Rattlesnake SL 2.


Final Decision:

The main problem is that I'm having to make a decision in the next day or two because I'm going on a camping trip this weekend. I wasn't planning on upgrading so soon but they're calling for rain and my current tent won't be able to handle the constant downpour without me getting wet and uncomfortable. A quick decision is hardly ever ideal but I've been weighing my options pretty hard over the last few days and just now decided to write about it.

As of the publishing of this post, I'm leaning heavily towards the Half Dome 2. It seems to be the best compromise of features and cost for my needs.


Your Recommendation?

I'd love to hear your recommendations but keep in mind my criteria listed above.

UPDATE: I settled on the REI Half Dome 2. On the few camping trips I've taken it on, it's proven itself to be a great buy and I highly recommend it.

"Duck Blind Heaven"

Note: While I'd like to share a photo of this fantastic painting, a woman named Nancy Childress requested I remove the image or she would pursue legal action. I don't have actual proof that she is the copyright holder but I'll respect the request based on her name being the same as the artists (under the assumption they're related).

This painting by Robert Childress really sums up how my wife and I view the majority of outdoor activities. I'm most at home when it's dreary and uncomfortable and she's quite the opposite. In fact, this scene was nearly played out exactly on a recent camping trip.

Back from Muster 3

I recently got back from the third annual ITS Muster. It’s nearly a week long and sleep is often a luxury so it’s taken me a little longer than usual to get back up to speed.

Since I was the “official” photographer for the week, I’m not in any of the photos but I like it that way. There is one photo I’m in that a friend of mine shot but you may not know it’s me.

I’m on the far right.

Overall it was a great event because I got to get away from the desk and computer and spend time in the field with old friends and some new ones too. I always forget how good it feels to not know what’s going on in the world because I’m so engrossed in what I’m doing physically.

We usually spend the entire time camping from our tents but the new venue this year meant bunks and cabins which was totally welcomed in my book. I love sleeping on a ground pad but a mattress and electricity makes it easier to get going in the morning.

Even though I just got back in town and I'm barely settling into my normal routine again, I'm already looking forward to the next camping trip, wherever it may be.

Perspective

The two photos below were taken just seconds apart but the second one [in my opinion] looks much better. I took both of these with my iPhone 4S and neither have been altered in any way.

I was walking my dog through some trails just outside of Mount Vernon and saw this cool looking hairy moss. Well I wanted to snap a picture and share it on Instagram.

The problem was that my first photo didn't capture the moss the way that I saw it with my eyes. So I shifted my position and took another shot. And honestly, it turned out better than I thought it would.

Why am I making such a big deal over all of this?

The situation and scene remained the same but I was able to alter my view of it by just changing my perspective. It's your choice on how you view things. Take time and find the good.

[Disclaimer: I don't claim to be a photographer but I do enjoy taking photos.]

Fresh Snow, Bear Tracks, & New Peaks

A buddy of mine has been itching to go camping and with my newfound time off, I figured it was the perfect time to go. I was needing a bit of a recharge and spending time outdoors always helps.

We've both climbed Old Rag Mountain before but this time I wanted to try something completely new. We set our sights on Robertson Mountain.

As we left town, it started to flurry and when I called the National Park Service to check conditions, I was informed that they already had 2 inches on the ground in some parts and were closing sections of Skyline Drive.

We pressed on.

Before long we were on the trail looking for a suitable spot to setup camp. It was still snowing as we set the tent up and climbed in to warm up and dry off and finalize our plans.

The only snag was that my buddy brought his wife's sleeping bag which was made for indoor sleepovers but we improvised and neither of us froze to death. 

Getting up around 6 am was great though. The sun was started to brighten things up and we were eager to start the day. After boiling some water for oatmeal and coffee, we were ready to hit the trail.

There was still a lot of snow on the trail and before long we finished the Corbin Hollow Trail and were starting the Robertson Mountain Trail. After a short time on the trail we saw some bear tracks and these were super fresh. Luckily the area is only home to black bears and they are generally scared of people so we weren't too alarmed. It was neat to see the prints up close and each paw was the size of my entire hand.

After a quick summit we headed back down.

I strongly encourage you to take some time away from your desk and spend the night outside. You'll thank yourself for it.

But wait, there's more...

Photos on Picasa.

Short URL: http://goo.gl/QuSWW

A Huckberry Christmas

Christmas is coming and probably faster than you'd like. I know that I still have quite a bit of shopping to do myself and after seeing the current deals on Huckberry, I may be shopping for myself!

Brett McKay from The Art of Manliness has jumped in and shared some of his top picks for deals on Huckberry and some are just too good to pass up. You'll have to login to view everything but I'm going to share what items that I'm currently lusting after.

Oh and one of the best parts about these deals?

// All AOM Holiday Shop orders guaranteed to reach you by December 24 or your money back. //

Poler Man Tent - $125

I don't currently have a Poler tent so I can't speak on the exact quality but all signs to point yes if you are in search of camp vibes. This company is certainly one to follow if you haven't been already. I recommend checking them out on Twitter and Tumblr.

PocketToolX Brewzer - $10

It's important for me to be the guy that others turn to when in need. I enjoy acting like Mary Poppins as I pull some much needed oddity out of my bag while still being fast and lite. The Brewzer is the super simple lightweight multi-tool I need. 

Trek Light Double Hammock - $56

I use my hammock just about everywhere, and I mean everywhere. I've enjoyed a few lunch breaks from the 12th floor rooftop at work using only two well spaced trees in planters. If you're looking for a different way to spend your weekend than deepening the dip in your couch, pick one of these up.

Sawyer Squeeze Filter Kit - $39 

During a past Huckberry deal, I purchased this filtration kit from Sawyer and couldn't be happier with it. It's lightweight, easy to use, and super portable; you can't ask for much more.

SlantShack Jerky - $22

Who doesn't like beef jerky? Ok, there may be a few of you but still, I love beef jerky and this stuff looks delicious! I also like how they have both grain fed and grass fed jerky though I don't know if there are any taste differences...

Rite in the Rain Journal Kit - $25

In the past, I've used Moleskine and Field Notes notebooks primarily. But neither are able to withstand the elements like Rite in the Rain. The fact they throw in a space pen should be enough of a reason to jump on this deal. 

Retrospec Bikes [Not part of the 'Art of Manliness Holiday Shop']

Millenium

Red+Black

Retrospec currently has a dozen or so different models of bikes on Huckberry but two have really caught my eye. I love the colors and look of the Millenium and the Red+Black. At $250, these boutique bikes are a steal. 

These deals won't last forever so you better act fast. The clock is ticking at 12 days left. 

Anything on Huckberry catch your eye? 

But wait, there's more...

Short URL: http://goo.gl/j4RvW

When you sign up using my link, I get credit on the site once you make your first purchase. 

All photos are property of Huckberry Co. and only used for illustration.

Paddling to a New Perspective

Last weekend I was in North Carolina with my wife’s family at their lake house. It was a whirlwind adventure and even though it didn’t bring much sleep, I got a lot of ‘recharge’ time. I got to do a lot of things I don’t usually do like canoeing, swimming, tubing, BBQ’ing, eating Whataburger, sleeping in my ENO hammock… stuff like that.

But early on Sunday morning, I decided to go for a short canoe trip. The sun was just coming up and I thought I would paddle around the cove. Once I got out on the water, I changed my destination. I was going to paddle to the bridge my father in law said was exactly one mile away. In a flat bottom canoe. By myself.

Staying somewhat close to the shore, everything seemed to move pretty fast. Well, not fast but I could tell I was making progress. It was tedious to switch sides after every stroke but that’s all I could do to keep going in a straight line.

As I ventured away from the safety of the shore and into the open of the lake, everything changed. I couldn’t tell if I was getting any closer to the bridge and even thought maybe the current was pushing me backwards. I lost my point of reference.

After a few seconds of desperately trying to find a point to lock on to but finding none, I suddenly felt my arms weakening after each stroke. It truly felt as if I was no longer propelling my boat through the water but was attempting to move the entire Earth below me.

What saved me was focusing on these tiny little pulp looking things that were floating on the surface of the water. There weren’t many but when I saw them and ‘sped’ past them, it gave me much relief to know I was actually progressing.

Yeah it’s kinda silly to freak out about that but it was crazy at how different I felt when I just shifted my perspective.

If you are going through a difficult time at the moment, just try to look at it from another angle. You may be surprised at what you find and you may even find it not as bad as you thought.