One way, one bag, one list, GO.

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

Alright bronies, time for a pop quiz.

 

We all know the stories of the human-to-Equestria genre, along with a collective desire to go to Equestria. But have you really considered what sorts of preparations you would need? What if you knew perfectly well what you were bound to get yourself into, having watched all 52 episodes of the show back to back and taking notes on the details of the environment? What if there was a foolproof way (think stargate) to get there safely? What if you could bypass all the hilarity that would ensue in most of the known human-to-Ponyville fanfics, simply because you were prepared?

 

So this is my challenge to you: were you to pack one bag (duffle for instance) to take on a sojourn to Ponyville, enough to survive for at least one week comfortably, what would you pack?

 

One thing to keep in mind: unless you have one of those new-fangled solar-powered chargers for your gadgets, and even then, electronics are probably not a good idea (that means laptops, cellphones, iPod, etc.). Also, you are completely cut off from the human world for the time, so any form of radio, Internet, and cellphone communication is out of the question. Also (unless worst comes to worst, see below), food and drink should be readily available, though relatively few alcoholic beverages (unless you know how to moonshine LOL), and ponies don't smoke or do drugs, so you'll either have to forgo those or figure something out. Medications would have to be provided on your end if they are an absolute necessity. Finally, weapons scare the Fluttershy, so refrain from those... I guess that's it. If I missed anything, let me know.

 

Oh, and one more important note: there is no guarantee to the ponies' hospitality (at least on the first day) no matter how nice you are. So when you're making your lists, please bear in mind that for the first few days you might have to end up snaring squirrels and filling waterskins in the Everfree forest. Surprisingly, this piece of opinion is more grounded in reality than you might think :-P

 

I'd like to see what you would come up with! I'm inventorying my EDC supplies right now; after that I myself will reply.

 

Peace,

Sean

[caesar15 231]

Why are weapons not recommended, ponies don't know what guns are.

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

Why are weapons not recommended, ponies don't know what guns are.

 

Better keep it that way; as a wise man once said, weapons are enemies, even to their owners.

 

'sides, shank a pony, even by accident, and you will be ran out of Ponyville by an angry stampeding mob.

 

So what do you think?

Edited May 27, 2012 by Sean Skyhawk

[Parties like Pinkie 385]

I think this should belong in Cloudsdale for some reason, but I like it! You could even make a small role play spin-off from it!

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

Alright, so I've gathered two bronies already okay

 

So the issue boils down to: what's in your bag?

[Parties like Pinkie 385]

Do we have to be specific? Like could we put Clothes in place of T-Shirts, Jeans, Socks, Shoes, Underwear, and Sweaters?

[Otter 1,942]

...as a wise man once said, weapons are enemies, even to their owners.

Wise old man, huh? Sounds like a pretty dumb old man to me.

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

Do we have to be specific? Like could we put Clothes in place of T-Shirts, Jeans, Socks, Shoes, Underwear, and Sweaters?

 

 

If you have a unique wardrobe style that involves your own personal touches, yes specificity is better. Otherwise, if it is pretty much a matter of common sense, you don't have to then.

[---------------------- 1,645]

this thread gives me the impression that equestira is like a island you are stranded on, I mean if I had to bring anything with me, just a ds and a backup battery so I can get my daily dose of ace attorney, other then that. I know there is not meat to eat being a vegan for a week would not kill me, the only thing I would be lacking is money, to be honest, there is not point in being in equestria unless you are turned into a pony, because lets face it, there is no way in hell that's going to turn out good.

[Parties like Pinkie 385]

Would we be the only ones, or would there be others?

 

((HUMANS))

[Guest]

Wise old man, huh? Sounds like a pretty dumb old man to me.

 

... You're sick.

 

Are scalpels approved? I might have to surgerize up in that bitch, seeing as we have some users of malicious intent!

Edited May 27, 2012 by Guest

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

this thread gives me the impression that equestira is like a island you are stranded on, I mean if I had to bring anything with me, just a ds and a backup battery so I can get my daily dose of ace attorney, other then that. I know there is not meat to eat being a vegan for a week would not kill me, the only thing I would be lacking is money, to be honest, there is not point in being in equestria unless you are turned into a pony, because lets face it, there is no way in hell that's going to turn out good.

 

In a sense the idea of the island is more likely than not the case. Sure, there is a form of civilization that for all intents and purposes would be willing to take you in even as a human, but I'm being realistic here. There is a possibility (slim but definite) that you won't be able to rely on their hospitality that well (at least for a few days). Worst comes to worst, you're pretty much in The Hunger Games except nothing much is trying to kill you really.

 

All the same, knowing what we know from the show, they'll probably take pity on you upon seeing you resort to such basic levels of survival. As for bits, well if you prove yourself useful to them, you might find some form of work there; even then...

 

Also... Ace Attorney? Play your cards right when they see it and you'll be super popular

 

Would we be the only ones, or would there be others?

 

((HUMANS))

 

Assumption: you're traveling alone

 

... You're sick.

 

Are scalpels approved? I might have to surgerize up in that bitch, seeing as we have some users of malicious intent!

 

Let's get back on topic, shall we? Edited May 27, 2012 by Sean Skyhawk

[Guest]

In a sense the idea of the island is more likely than not the case. Sure, there is a form of civilization that for all intents and purposes would be willing to take you in even as a human, but I'm being realistic here. There is a possibility (slim but definite) that you won't be able to rely on their hospitality that well (at least for a few days). Worst comes to worst, you're pretty much in The Hunger Games except nothing much is trying to kill you really.

 

All the same, knowing what we know from the show, they'll probably take pity on you upon seeing you resort to such basic levels of survival. As for bits, well if you prove yourself useful to them, you might find some form of work there; even then...

 

 

 

Assumption: you're traveling alone

 

Let's get back on topic, shall we?

 

... I'm serious. Are scalpels allowed?

 

I could understand not being allowed to bring guns, but a sharp tool would be nice if setting up camp was an important necessity.

Other than that, I'd bring a cushion, a (large) box of matches, some twine/rope, a watch lens, compass, blanket, and a tarp. I'd also bring necessary toiletries X3! (toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, etc.)

 

That's all I usually take when going camping (thought, I'd usually bring a tent as well -- it wouldn't fit, however, so I'd use a makeshift one with the tarp.)

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

... I'm serious. Are scalpels allowed?

 

I could understand not being allowed to bring guns, but a sharp tool would be nice if setting up camp was an important necessity.

Other than that, I'd bring a cushion, a (large) box of matches, some twine/rope, a watch lens, compass, blanket, and a tarp. I'd also bring necessary toiletries X3! (toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, etc.)

 

That's all I usually take when going camping (thought, I'd usually bring a tent as well -- it wouldn't fit, however, so I'd use a makeshift one with the tarp.)

 

I see what you meant with the scalpel. A blade is typically attached with the Pocket Survival Pak, along with many of the things you just listed. Hmm... seems about right, if a bit basic. Personally I'd put some human books in there too, assuming TS would be able to translate from your language to hers. But right there's pretty decent for a start. Edited May 27, 2012 by Sean Skyhawk

[Parties like Pinkie 385]

Assumption: you're traveling alone

 

So there'd be no possible way to meet any other humans if you went alone?

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

So there'd be no possible way to meet any other humans if you went alone?

 

My assumption is that you're the first in a while... what made you think others might have settled there already before you? That would sort of defeat the purpose of this exercise.

 

Please note that this is by no means any means of long-term settlement. That requires a different line of thought. Just a week or two of staying there at most.

[Parties like Pinkie 385]

My assumption is that you're the first in a while... what made you think others might have settled there already before you? That would sort of defeat the purpose of this exercise.

 

Please note that this is by no means any means of long-term settlement. That requires a different line of thought. Just a week or two of staying there at most.

 

I meant as in would we meet another human doing this challenge?

[Aureity 3,055]

I suppose I'd take everything I'd need for survival at a basic level. Camping equipment and whatnot.

But that's for the worst. If I make it to Ponyville and am able to set up a life there, I'm willing to start from scratch. It's more fun that way.

[Guest]

I see what you meant with the scalpel. A blade is typically attached with the Pocket Survival Pak, along with many of the things you just listed. Hmm... seems about right, if a bit basic. Personally I'd put some human books in there too, assuming TS would be able to translate from your language to hers. But right there's pretty decent for a start.

 

Sorry, I'm a scout. Leave no trace -- nothing too permanent XD!

Also have ze Wilderness Survival badge! I'd be set for a little while :3

(Out of 79 people who took the badge, only eight people, including myself, remained after the wilderness camp night. We were only allowed a tarp, a flashlight, and some rope. There was a severe thunderstorm and everyone else went back to their campsites -- only we badasses remained! ... Longest bloody night of my entire life. Soaked and staring at nothing inside a mega-tent we created from the surrounding trees and huge branches w/ leaves for insulation. Damn, aren't I just so grizzly?)

 

Also, I'd like to add two flashlights (one chargeable [i.e. the crank-to-operate] and the other normal) and several pairs of batteries to my pack X3!

Edited May 27, 2012 by Guest

[JhonHipster 124]

Just go empty handed. Pinkie will take care of everything until I can sustain myself.

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

I meant as in would we meet another human doing this challenge?

 

The assumption is that no, you would not meet any other human for that period.

[Parties like Pinkie 385]

The assumption is that no, you would not meet any other human for that period.

 

Then FUCK clothes!

 

They'd be a pain to wash, as nopony would know what the hell the were in the first place, and it'd save more room for my kit. I'd bring a hide waterskin, a hunting knife, bread & cheese, some twine, a hide tarp, a pencil and a notebook.

 

I would live my days out in the everfree forest, as the ponies wouldn't have sustainable food for me. Bread and Cheese are the easiest to obtain food, and once I make my first kill, i'll have protein. The knife will not only kill my meals, but skin and clean them, their hides will then be used to make more items for myself, hence the twine. For a bed, I will use the hide tarp, and use rocks and wood to make a fire. The pencil and notebook are to keep a diary so I don't go insane.

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

Then FUCK clothes!

 

They'd be a pain to wash, as nopony would know what the hell the were in the first place, and it'd save more room for my kit. I'd bring a hide waterskin, a hunting knife, bread & cheese, some twine, a hide tarp, a pencil and a notebook.

 

I would live my days out in the everfree forest, as the ponies wouldn't have sustainable food for me. Bread and Cheese are the easiest to obtain food, and once I make my first kill, i'll have protein. The knife will not only kill my meals, but skin and clean them, their hides will then be used to make more items for myself, hence the twine. For a bed, I will use the hide tarp, and use rocks and wood to make a fire. The pencil and notebook are to keep a diary so I don't go insane.

 

uhmmm.... WOW! I'd better also pack my words to eat knowing this; I didn't expect something so extreme! Prolly was a mistake to compare the situation to the hunger games...

 

Besides, such uncouth manners would definitely alienate the ponies, who'd react to you like they did to Zecora... but ah well it's your choice lol

 

Many of the previous responses not only enabled the bare modicum of survival in such a world, but at least minimal creature comforts and that's sort of what I had in mind when I made this thread... there's a fine line or rather level when it comes to these sorts of things. Simply because there are no other humans in this scenario (you asked this a LOT as if to make absolutely certain) doesn't mean you can (no offense) subsist like some wild hunter-gatherer; don't forget this world also possesses a level of sentient beings not that much unlike humans.

 

Sorry in advance if my tone seems a bit abrasive but I must admit that response ("FUCK clothes!" especially ) sort of caught me off guard there... definitely one of the more interesting replies I've seen in a while

 

[reaches under mattress and packs 1L bota bag and Bear Grylls Gerber knife anyway... I already have most the others in EDC and all of these already in my bedroom]

Edited May 27, 2012 by Sean Skyhawk

[Parties like Pinkie 385]

words.

 

XD sorry, I'm a huge Bear Grylls fan myself, and my actions actually have very sound reasoning behind them:

 

1) When you first arrive in Equestria, you'll be the first of your kind, so of course you will be shunned.

 

2) If and When you become accepted by the ponies, whom all eat flowers, hay, and sweets, you will need to provide your own sustenance, as flowers and hay are inedible, and sweets would just make you extremely sick.

 

3) Unless you're a vegetarian.

 

4) Become a Vegetarian

 

5) You can now eat what the ponies eat, except you'll need to learn to make Tofu.

 

6) Learn to make Tofu (Zecora may be able to help)

 

7) Actually you might be able to get Twilight to magic some up.

 

8) Or get her to fix your inner workings so that you get everything you need nutritionally from flowers and hay.

 

9) Seek Twilight's help

 

10) I love how this list of reasons turned into a "How to"

 

11) DON'T START A HUMAN COLONY.

 

12) Why?

 

13) Because every single living animal on the planet has a natural equilibrium with it's environment. When that equilibrium is hit, that group of animals will stop reproducing, and live in harmony with the ecosystem.

 

13) Humans do not.

 

14) Humans reproduce and reproduce until the equilibrium is shattered and all the resources are used up. This prompts them to move to a new area, in which they will do the same there, etc. etc.

 

15) There is only one other organism on this planet whose reproduction works in the same way.

 

16) A Virus

 

17) Humans are nothing more than a plague of this world

 

18) Don't kill Equestria with this plague as well

[Sean Skyhawk 12]

WHAT?! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA LOOOLLL!!!1!!!!!1!1 I got as far as No. 13 and then I saw where this was going; at the end I totally lost it right there . So you've watched The Matrix and loved it? Speak of Discord, I was just rewatching it a couple hours ago, only this time I was fastforwarding to the lobby scene... classic. I reckon the minigun scene is something we've all been tempted to try upon changelings

 

Ah well back to the topic, I must admit I respectfully disagree with a few of your points. Your logic is sound, but it is based upon two assumptions, both of which might prove erroneous:

 

1. That you're not only the sole human present in Equestria at that time, but that you're are the absolute first to ever show up there (Plausible but unprovable)

2. That ponies only eat flowers/hay/sweets (demonstrably false)

 

For the former point, I did not account for this assumption in the original argument. I'd somewhat imagined when I formed this scenario that humans may have set foot on Equestrian soil before, though perhaps years apart and never in a group. It's kind of like a premise found in older MLP generations (forgive me), which treat humans as either known entities from the past or myth. All the same, there's no way to prove that the locals haven't had human contact before... perhaps the present generation does not have the overall cultural memory of such things, happens all the time (I mean, look at the true old mare's tale of NMM). Then again, you might be right. But in any case my main point is that I don't believe that they would necessarily be super-afraid of humans even if you were the first* (then again, they freaked out at the equine Zecora so I might be wrong).

 

Why do I believe this? Because it has been demonstrated that in nature if an isolated environment has been shown to be pristine to humans, upon first contact the local animals do not exhibit the instinctive impulse to run away. Examples: the dodos of Mauritius island and penguins in Antarctica. Of course, in the former case we were assholes to them, but in the latter, penguins have been known to get within closer range to researchers than is the norm of most animals (just barely far enough that straight-up hugging is not possible). If that is known for mere animals, then more sentient beings capable of approaching the situation rationally would give you a better chance at acceptance. I cannot stress how important being nice is... otherwise you'll pretty much be Everfree-bound forever. And IMHO, being a paleo-barbarian counts as "not nice."

 

As for the second point, I am afraid I must respectfully prove you wrong. It has been demonstrated in the show that ponies consume other varieties of food and drink. Please see this page:

 

http://mlp.wikia.com/wiki/Food_and_beverage/By_episode

 

The show has demonstrated varieties of fruits, vegetables, bread products, milk and presumably dairy products (Boast Busters, anyone?), and eggs at the very least. You make a good point surrounding forms of meat from the forest, but there is no doubt considering this information that humans can easily eat in Equestria without needing any physical modifications (lifestyle modifications, on the other hand, maybe). Eggy in a basket (a breakfast choice found in V for Vendetta)? No probs

 

Whoo, this has been a very interesting discussion! As for the last parts, I say no more (though I agree), as that falls outside our scope... And that is why I said a week at most, with one person.

 

So I'll hear you out if you have any more to say, but beyond that you've answered with your opinions on the question, so after this, perhaps someone else might also provide such thought-stimulating ideas.

 

* Something irrelevant I wanted to share: I once imagined that ponykind was initially created by humans (designer pets?) and then eventually rebelled against and destroyed their creators, a la "The Second Renaissance". And that's how Equestria was made

 

Another point that I've given a bit of thought to as well... I don't think the idea of going w/o clothes would serve you well in the long run. Sure that approach is more convenient, but do realize:

 

It's been made clear in a few episodes that ponies see any form of clothing as a mark of civility, like we do. Every time I saw your original reply it painted quite a disturbing image in my head, and not because of imagining someone naked. No, I imagined that ponies would see the human visitor as naught more than a wild scary animal w/o clothes, like the savage wildman in our own legends. However, the way I imagined it, once a pony saw that the visitor, though foreign, wore at least some form of clothing, at least there was a better chance at reasoning with him in their mind. Otherwise, that chance drops dramatically.

 

As for washing? throw in paracord, powder detergent you know what? If you gain their trust you'll probably end up being able to get some at Carousel Boutique and binder clips and you have it made. Head to the nearest river and voila