There are those that do long trips to Alaska...:)    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoka_Hey_Motorcycle_Challenge   ... View more

I would suggest using a booty.  Something like:  https://www.backpacker.com/gear-item/western-mountaineering-standard-down/       ... View more

Triple Crown in USA then the bike ride 🙂   ... View more

My wife and I were hiking in Western NC and she was out front.  She noticed a momma bear and cubs and this was the first time she had seen a bear in real life. She immediately dropped to a knee and tried to bring the bears in closer.  (Shes from the PI and forgot that momma bears are dangerous).  I got up there quickly and pulled her back slowly...then went and changed my pants 🙂 LOL    Another time about 5 miles from that point my brother and I walked up on a copper head (Way to close).... ... View more

Definitely hot tub with drinks ...:)  ... View more

Thanks.  My gear lets me go down to zero comfortably so I should be good.  Also, if heavy snow hits, I have two sisters that live near there 🙂   ... View more

Good evening, I've had to shift my dates/direction due to a family commitment.  I head NOBO on February 18th 🙂   would love to run in to our team on the trail...:)  ... View more

Now with a cup of coffee in the A.M....you just described heaven 🙂   ... View more

I concur with Glove options.  Stop by an REI with your poles and try on a couple pair until you find what you like.  I'd keep them light and airy to ensure the sweat isn't a bigger problem.... ... View more

I'm definately a hiker first.  I guess the thing you have to ask yourself is "Am I getting the pictures I want from the device I take".  Phone picture quality has come along way and my phone provides me the quality pics I want.  Also, I see some taking monolithic cameras that must way 5 LBS They stop alot to get pics so I think they fall into the artist group...Cant image the gear I could replace that with in my luxury list 🙂   ... View more

I used to be stationed in Japan and found traveling through the airports was much like in the US (Just different language).  I would get a heavy duty army/navy duffle and stuff the backpack and items in there. You can get them cheap at a surplus store.  Then check that bag.  That way if anything gets tore its something you dont plan to keep anyway.  One item I would strongly recommend is touching base with your camping site manager before you go.  We often climbed Mt. Fuji and on two occasions tried to stay at a campground to only find out that they did not want foreigner customers.  Better to know where you can stay before you travel.   Good luck and if you get the chance to climb fuji ....take it 🙂   ... View more