(Part 2) Best camping & hiking equipment according to redditors
We found 15,292 Reddit comments discussing the best camping & hiking equipment. We ranked the 6,419 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the products ranked 21-40. You can also go back to the previous section.
So, I just went through my Amazon orders and pretty much every single thing I saw that I bought for myself I thought was the best thing I ever purchased.
With great pain and strain, I narrowed it down to these three things:
Edited to add links.
If you are a male, in the future you could carry one of this. Works great, the urine solidifies in the chemical powder that's inside. You can put a coat over your lap or a blanket and do your thing.
https://www.amazon.com/Travel-John-66911-TravelJohn-Disposable-Urinal/dp/B000NV878S
This is easy, the answer is bear-mace. 1-day shipping from amazon. http://smile.amazon.com/SABRE-FRONTIERSMAN-Attack-Deterrent-Holster/dp/B002E6VAHK
Get a PO Box immediately so youhave a place for your mail to go. Don't check "commercial or business use" or the post office will be obligated to give out your contact info for anyone who asks. They are about $30 for six months.
Buy a little urinal jug for $5 or pack of disposable ones for $12.
(You have to pee when in a car a lot more than your tire goes flat so why do you have a spare tire and no pee jug in your trunk?)
Here is one with a female adapter for $5. everyone should have one of these in their car trunk anyway.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000M3DCHI?ie=UTF8&tag=reddit0e-20
here are some disposable cardboard paper ones 6 for $12 if you want something smaller.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NV878S?ie=UTF8&tag=reddit0e-20
You don't want to exit a car at night to walk the woods or city streets to find privacy. Aircraft supply stores came up with these women's pee jugs which are used in small airplanes flying for several hours when no one wants to land just to pee.
Other practical things from a friend of mine who has camped across the country:
If you have a car to sleep in find the neighborhoods with lots of apartments becuase they usually have a lot of apartment dwellers who park overnight on the streets so your car won't get hassled.
IF you live near a swimming pool park, beach or lake a lot of them have open showers.
If you have a sportsclub membership you can usually shower and change clothes there (might be worth the monthly purchase for national shower privileges alone.) If you go to a 24 hr one in work out sweats no one will think anything of it if you "accidentally fall asleep" on a floor mat "doing your exercises".
Buy a small wind up or battery powered alarm clock.
A plastic jar of peanut butter, a half gallon jug of spring water, a multivitamin and aspirin bottle, cold cans of chicken based Progresso soups with rice or veggies (which taste like high end gazpacho cold) and a spoon or fork and a can opener a wash cloth, deodorant, hairspray, toilet paper are wonderful things to have in a car at all times whether or not you are homeless/camping whatever.
A wool blanket is a wonderful thing for warmth and window privacy. A Sunday newspaper and tape makes great car window privacy (but also alerts police you might be sleeping in your car which is illegal some places.) An alternative is some of those sun reflectors for car windows which you can get at the 99cents store. Lots of people leave those on windows when they aren't sleeping in a car.
Even an out of service (with canceled monthly bill etc) cell phone can be used for emergency 911 calls if you keep it charged.
Get a thing that plugs into your cigarettes lighter that lets you pull in regular electrical plug devices to do things like run your cell phone and small laptop.here's one for $25
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000157TNA?ie=UTF8&tag=reddit0e-20
WARNING they CANNOT BE USED WITH HAIRDRYERS or HEATING THINGS becuase those use to much electricity.
for that you need a heavy duty one 1500 watt one which will be a few hundred like this
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00126IDDC?ie=UTF8&tag=reddit0e-20
no 2000 watt hairdryers if it's 1500 watts! (you should really not use a hairdryer in your car)
Even the smaller ones for cell phones and laptops will run down your car battery within an hour if the car isn't running and the larger one may even run it down when the car IS running becuase they pull so much electric juice.
If you are ever sleeping in your car, the easiest way to stay warm is to get a 2 liter soda bottle and empty it and fill it to the top (no air) with the hottest tap water you can find from a public sink, screw the plastic lid back on tight, and then put that bottle in a blanket or sleeping bag with you. You will stay very warm all night. You probably will need to wrap the hot water bottle in a pants leg or blanket becuase it will be hot on your skin otherwise. Don't leave air in there or it will expand and pressurize the bottle as soon as the hot water gets shaken. got o an aquarium store and buy two clear hoses like in aquariums.
One small diameter and one larger.
The small one can fill jugs from sinks etc when you can't get the jug under the sink faucet.
The large one can be used to route fluids outside your car without opening the door or to help fill radiators etc.
Get a $5 led flashlight and bunches of batteries for 99 cents
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000LIQQ7M?ie=UTF8&tag=reddit0e-20
Those are all good things to have in your car anyway.
Just get one of these for $35.
http://www.amazon.com/MSR-11792-Pocket-Rocket-Stove/dp/B000A8C5QE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1345917655&sr=8-1&keywords=msr+pocket+rocket
Then order some 8oz fuel cans to your work. We fed 8 people off 2 cans for 8 days on our last camping trip. I'm guessing you could do 10-12 meals per can pretty easily.
http://www.austinkayak.com/products/5667/MSR-IsoPro-Fuel-8-oz.html was the cheapest i could find it online.
You could in the can cook any soup, stew or veggies in less than 10 minutes on this thing. I've even done steaks on it.
Titanium Pot - 28 oz savings ($35)
Drop The mug, just use your pot - 4 oz savings (free)
Trowel instead of shovel - 16 oz savings ($20)
Drop the solar panel (doesn't really work well on the move) - 10-ish savings (free)
Sawyer Squeeze instead of Katadyn - 8 oz savings ($30)
Dance Pants instead of packed pants - 14 oz saved ($18) although you probably dont need these since you're wearing zip off pants
I would add a puffy to your clothing, it will get pretty cold - 10 oz gained (can be found on sale for $40)
Leave the extra shirts at home - 12 oz saved (free)
Just bring one extra payer of underwear and socks - 6 oz saved (free)
Leave campshoes at home - 23 oz saved (free)
I really don't know what the survival kit contains, but it can probably be paired down or eliminated
Don't know what the carabiners are for if you're hanging stuff outside your pack you're bringing too much - 4 oz saved (free)
Don't know what the tarp is for the sierras, you already have a tent
125 oz saved or almost 8 pounds. Coming in at a cost around $150.
I would start here and then look at replacing your bigger items. The easiest one to save the most weight would be your pack.
Hope this helps!
What about this?
Even smaller is one like this. Just being able to hear water or make a soup is huge for cheap food. Thrift stores or garage sales have dirt cheap pots and kitchen utensils all the time. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_1TGzDbWBRF80Q
I wouldn't recommend a "titanium" knife, firstly because for $10, it's not titanium. It's probably some chinesium knife that won't hold an edge very well. Secondly I don't recall Camillus having a great reputation due to materials and QC.
If you're looking for a good budget knife, I know Ka-Bar and Becker make good ones, and if you can swing an Izula, that would be my choice. Here are some links. Izula Ka-Bar 1 Ka-Bar 2 Ka-Bar 3.
The reason I'm recommending Ka-Bar and ESEE is that they both use 1095 carbon steel which is an excellent choice in toughness and edge retention. I almost forgot Mora, a superb Swedish knife that is renowned for its steel and edge retention, and used worldwide by folks in the workforce and outdoors communities.
The ESEE and Ka-Bars will run you $40-$60, and the mora will run you about $15. You can get Moras and Izulas at Cabelas, but Amazon is also great. Good luck.
You're asking a very broad question while looking for specifics, making it very hard to pinpoint an answer. I'll give my advice on bug out bag items.
The bag itself - Should be a solid backpacking bag. Keep it light enough that it's manageable. For a very fit individual, the max weight should be your body weight divided by 3. Most of us are not that fit, so adjust accordingly. It should have hip support, well stitched straps, several compartments and a way to attach things to the outside (molle webbing, carabiner loops or exterior straps). Should be weatherproof.
Water - Depends entirely on your location. I live in Canada - Land of lakes and rivers. I wont need to carry a ton of water all the time. I've got a sawyer squeeze as my primary water filter. The collapsible water bottles it comes with work great for water storage as well. Wife and daughter carry a lifestraw as backups. We have some iodine drops as well.
As far as water carrying devices go, i find nalgene bottles work great. Theyre light and strong, and come in various sizes. A canteen is great if you want to use it to cook over a fire. Its not a bad idea either to have a large (5 litre+) collapsible water container. They're plastic and light. I havn't used mine extensively enough to recommend.
Sharp Things - I've got a Kabar as my primary fixed blade. It's tried and true. Good metal, full tang. I've got a leatherman wave multitool. Carry it everyday on my belt. Super handy. I should really add a 3-4" folding knife to my pack as sometimes the kabar is too big, and the multitool is hard to clean.
I also carry a Cold steel shovel. I looked into folding shovels, and they didnt seem reliable. Moving parts means they're more likely to fail. I haven't used this one extensively, but the few times i have tried it, its done an excellent job. If your pack's too heavy, put this one in your car.
Food - Your typical protein bars, dried rice/bean mix, snickers, small jar of PB, oatmeal and dehydrated fruit. A small bit of olive oil packs a ton of calories and adds flavour. It's good to have a small container of salt and pepper, or other spices to add flavour. You can grab MRE's or those mountainhouse dried meals, but theyre expensive. If you regularly buy pepperettes or jerkey, stick some in your bag and rotate it out when you buy it next. Multivitamins can keep you up if youre not getting a ton of food, but dont rely on them. Bring any meds you need, as well as tylenol or aspirin.
Hygiene - Pack a couple rolls of TP. Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant (chuck if too much weight), wash cloth, soap, soap for clothing, feminine products (if applicable), couple garbage bags (can separate dirty clothes), wet wipes, lip balm, hand sanitizer. Sun screen and bug spray in small bottles.
Clothing - Carry at least 7 pairs of good socks. Some warm ones if the location's cold. Extra shirts, underwear are essential. Pants/shorts and sweater are optional (besides whatever you're wearing). Stick your clothing in a waterproof sack. Try to keep only clean, dry clothes in there (no airflow + damp = mold).
-Paracord and rope
-Carabiners
-Sewing kit
-Tent patching kit (if you have a tent or a tarp)
-Tarp (who saw that coming). Doesn't have to be massive. Just know how to set it up to keep you dry.
-Fire Source. Have many. Lighters are cheap, stash away a bunch (7?). The lighter leash is awesome. You should be able to find that cheap at a corner store. Storm matches, for when its rainy. I think these are what I got. You can light them in any weather, put them under water, and they'll still be lit. Not a bad idea to carry regualr matches in a waterproof container. Firestarter packets are great. I just soak cotton balls in Vaseline. Flint and steel is cool, but only useful if youve exhausted all other fire starting methods.
-Super Glue
-Safety pins
-Zip ties
-Light. Hand crank flashlight is awesome. If you have a battery powered one, carry spare batteries. The mini maglite has a belt holster. Those small LED flashlights are great too. Grab a few glowsticks.
-fork and spoon
-emergency blanket or emergency sleeping bag. Only useful if you're SOL.
-poncho
-sleeping bag for your location. If its warm you don't need this. Can use a hammock or sleeping pad. Try and keep these small as they take up a ton of space.
-Compass. Useful if you have a map.
-Map of your location/where youre going.
-Signal mirror and a good whistle.
-Fishing supplies. I've got an emmrod. You can put a fairly small cheap reel on here. I've got the shimano ix2000. It casts a pretty good distance. Hooks, weights, bobs etc. Can all fit in small waterproof containers or camera film containers. Dont forget line! Mines already on the reel. A fishing vest gives you lots of little pockets to keep things in arms reach.
-First Aid kit. There's extensive lists online depending on how large you want it. Some gauze, band aids, polysporin, burn cream are a good start. Try and build it yourself, don't buy the gimmikey premade ones. Keep yours in a waterproof Tupperware container.
-Tiny roll of Gorilla Tape
-Games. Some dice and a deck of cards go a long way. Don't underestimate the value of laughter. If a sudden collapse ever happens, these might save you from depression.
-Headlamp. I've got this rayovac one (i think). Seems easy on batteries and has lasted a few camping trips. Haven't put serious use on it tho.
-Eating equipment. A mug and a small plate go a long way. A folding pan goes a long way, but is heavy. I would love to learn to use a pressure cooker over fires.
-Handkerchief or travel kleenex
-Bandanas. 3 of them.
-Bungee cords can be useful, but they run the risk of snapping and taking out an eye.
-Ziplock bags are handy. Keeps a lot of small things organized and dry.
-Pencils, Pens, notepad/book, sharpie.
-Hatchet is useful, but heavy. Take one if you can. The sven saw is awesome and hasn't broke on me yet.
-Spare pair of glasses (if applicable)
-Some sort of firearm is almost necessary. I don't have one yet, but i was planning on a 10/22 takedown. It's small and easy to pack. Bullets are light. If you need more stopping power than a .22, you're in a heap of trouble. Guns are not my specialty (can you guess), so ill leave it up to you
-In lieu of a firearm, you could grab a crossbow. If that's still too much, a good slingshot will do great.
-phone booklet and address's. In case your phone craps out and you cant charge it.
-A small windable clock is great. A solar watch is better. I think thats the one i have.
All this stuff is useless unless you know how to use it. Do your research, take some courses. Learn the necessary skills to survive, because that's what's really necessary. I like Les Stroud's (survivorman) book Survive!. Learn to tie knots, fish, hunt, forage, fight, build a fire in all conditions, etc.
If you have questions on the use of any of the above items, ask away. Any advice or suggestions, I welcome those too.
Sawyer Squeeze Water filter. You will be tempted to get the Sawyer mini instead, and save a few dollars and a miniscule amount of weight. Don't. Get the Squeeze instead.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B1OSU4W/ref=twister_B01MY8CBXB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Sawyer Squeeze is only $20 on amazon right now https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP129-Filtration-Squeezable/dp/B00B1OSU4W?psc=1&SubscriptionId=AKIAI2TWEDSMJWGPXOQQ&tag=camelanonalerts-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B00B1OSU4W
I'd consider a Morakniv fixed blade for each kit. They're so durable, great grip, sharp as heck, and are cheap enough to get a few easily from Amazon: Morakniv on Amazon
You just need to have what you might need, BOBs are generally for evacuations whereas what you are describing is just normal day to day things. I'll try to make a list anyway but you'll have to add things you want to have.
Since you don't plan on carrying this the bag could just be a large backpack, or even a duffle bag. You don't need the tacticool hi-speed lo-drag coolest BOB out there.
I would divide things into categories and keep them in their own dividers. For instance, you could get 2 of something like this and some sort of larger bag for all your clothing. It will make it much easier than just having a bag full of stuff. You could probably fit most clothing in one, and just have the jacket and jeans outside of it. You could also vacuum seal your clothing into compact flat bags to make them easier to handle.
Clothing
3 - comfortable t-shirts. You could even just buy a pack of 3 hanes shirts for the purpose.
1 - Jacket - just in case it's winter time
3 - underwear, whatever kind you wear
1 - athletic shorts
1 - pair of jeans
3 - pairs of socks
1 - towel? If they will provide showers but not towels
Toiletries
(all this should be travel sized, they sell everything I will name at walmart in travel sizes for $1)
1 - toothpaste
1 - toothbrush
1 - Shampoo/conditioner
1 - body wash (bar soap sucks to store after 1 use)
1 - deoderant (will melt and leak in a hot car, even the white powder kind. Keep this in mind
1 - pack of baby wipes. These are good for a 'hobo shower' which is likely what will be available to you. I would still bring the other stuff though just in case, and you can always wash your hair with a bucket of water to rinse.
Medications
These will spoil in a hot car, but you should keep a few days supply of any medications you might need on you somehow, or if there is a way to store them at the office do that (maybe they can be locked in a cabinet or something?) I'd keep them in an old prescription bottle with your info on it, you can scratch out the medicine name if you want.)
EXTRA GLASSES if you wear contacts or glasses.
Electronics
A completely spare phone charger that you will never remove from the bag unless you literally have no other choice. This cannot be left at home because you took it out and forgot to put it back in.
Other chargers for whatever you might need. If you might have your iPad for instance, bring a charger for that if it's different than phone.
You can consider a charging battery pack like this (I am not recommending that model though, it's first on Amazon)
Food
Don't know what kind of facilities they would have, but you can bring dehydrated food if there will be a way to boil water. If not you're going to have to stick with ready to eat foods like jerky, pop-tarts, tuna packets, granola bars, etc. Whatever you like, you won't want to be eating shitty food you hate in this situation.
Water
Typical recommendations are 1 gallon/person/day so that's 3 gallons. That's a lot of water to store, but if you need to then I'd recommend a case or two of water in the car. You want to switch these out every once in a while as plastic leeches into the water after a while. Just switch it every few months or so. You can also get a nalgene bottle and keep that full, but that's not even a days worth of drinking water.
If you somehow think you'll have non-potable water available and need a filter then I'd recommend this for cheap, this for a more pricey option that can also be more easily shared with others.
If you think you'll need to boil water/cook food you should be fine with this and a can of butane fuel for it. This you don't want to leave in a florida car in the summer either though.
Nice post, thanks for sharing!
Anyway, cheers to a good start! Everyone who is away from home a lot (most of the working population) should have a bag in their car to help get home or sustain.
https://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
Tactical Bacon
Things I've bought on Amazon and highly recommend:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004I58E7E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00363V534/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J2GUOU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EPQ3H4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0044DEESS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Omg there is a tactical eating utensi!!. tactical spork
Posted this in the Nov 19th chat just yesterday, but figured it's worth reposting here since that thread closed almost immediately after I posted:
In-store picture of the green: https://imgur.com/a/81bZk. If you're crafty, you can also buy Old Navy/Gap giftcards for about 20% off to further reduce the price.
Tactical bacon has found its purpose.
https://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
Definitely get hooked up with the good folks at accessibility if you have not already.
Keeping cool and hydrated are also going to be of major concern...obviously. Outside of the obvious things like wide brim hat, high SPF sunscreen (and plenty of it!), and a camelbak a few things come to mind:
Of course, having a good friend along to help carry stuff and keep an eye on you is also important. I assume you won't partake in any partyfavors, but, I'd feel bad if I didn't drop a reminder not to.
Other random thoughts:
I've never been in accessibility, but, from everything I understand they take extremely good care of everyone. A good friend of mine has gone that way with his brother 3 times and they love it.
This is everything I can think of off the top of my head. I'm sure you've done it, but, definitely talk to your doctors about certain things you should be mindful of while there. I'm sure accesibility is different, but, average Bonnaroovian spends a TON of time on their feet and in the sun. It can be exhausting even for healthy individuals. Partying from noon (or earlier) until 3AM (or later) takes it out of anyone. Just know yourself, your limitations, and priority shows and pace the weekend accordingly.
Feel free to PM if you have additional questions.
Instead of the lifestraw, I would suggest one of the sawyer filters.
And tactical sporks are a real thing
Amateurs. This is what you bring to a festival: TravelJohn-Disposable Urinal (6 pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NV878S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_RXAxxb48H172N
I just use a jug for the tent, but when I'm out and about I keep a Travel John in my bag. It turns your pee into a gel.
I had to leave the man burn a few years ago cause I was about to pee my pants. I almost had to stop and piss on the open playa it was that bad (I made it to the portos somehow). They are cheap insurance and they make them for men, women, and kids.
I haven't used that backpack you're looking at but I can tell from its design, that it doesn't look like it'll carry the weight comfortably if you're planning on a 3 day backpacking trip in wilderness. This pack is probably better for normal travel so if you're car camping and have access to amenities then this pack should do fine. It also doesn't look big enough to carry a tent, sleeping bag, food, water, etc.
Assuming you'll be deeper in wilderness and using a tent, sleeping bag, pad, etc., I would recommend something that will carry comfortably (aim weight toward your hips and reduce weight on your back) and there are better options out there. You'd want a backpacking backpack at least and you can probably find lots of options within (or close to) your budget.
Below are a few suggestions within a few different price ranges (not sure how strict your budget is).
Side note: I used to own the previous version of the Teton - it was my first backpack - for the price it did a pretty good job and never had any major complaints:
TETON Sports Scout 3400 60L
Mountaintop 55L Backpacking Pack
Mountaintop 65L Internal Frame Backpack Hiking Backpack with Rain Cover
50L Hiking Backpack EocuSun Waterproof Camping Backpack Outdoor Sport Lightweight Backpacking Bag
Hope this helps - have fun on your trip!
I can't recommend anything higher than the cooling towels:
https://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Chilly-Evaporative-Cooling/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484083513&sr=8-1&keywords=frog+togg+towel
Stays cool until it evaporates which is about an hour or 2 in the hot coachella sun. Saved my life the first year i went. Keep it on your shoulders or head when youre out in the sun or take a nap in the shade with it over your face. heaven
Take a look at the Sawyer Squeeze good for 1 million gallons with cleaning. I use it for backpacking. I work in outdoor retail and I will say that weve been having people report problems, including myself, with the O ring coming unseated and leaking dirty water, sometimes into the clean water. I really like the system overall though.
I prefer a Morakniv knife. They're usually about $12 to $25, go on sale often, and come with an excellent hard plastic sheath. They're light, durable, and simple. A friend of mine took one up the entire Appalachian Trail as his main trail knife in 2015; he loved it, never had a problem with it.
I don't understand why y'all keep going for Lifestraws. Do you intend to have a cup with you, or to lay on the ground to have a drink? A Sawyer setup is more portable since you can fill a pouch with water and keep going. Bonus: it costs the same or a fistful of dollars more than a Lifestraw.
Save lots of money and buy a Sawyer Squeeze instead. The Sawyer Squeeze filters 1,000,000 gallons of water versus the LifeStraw's 1,000 liters. Looked at another way the Sawyer Squeeze filters ~32,500 gallons per dollar and the LifeStraw filters 18 gallons per dollar.
Or this, for when you need to pee in a public place, regardless of gender! Only $12 for four of them!
Here's a few things I've bought off Amazon that I've been really happy with:
Minus33 Merino Wool Day Hiker Sock
Magnesium Fire Starter
Bahco 396-LAP Laplander Folding Saw
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Carbon Steel Blade
Nalgene Translucent Wide Mouth Bottle With Blue Lid
Outdoor Products 3-Pack Ultimate Dry Sack
Rayovac Sportsman 22 Lumen 1AAA Headlight
Adventure Medical Kits Adventure First Aid 2.0
Suunto M-3 D/L Compass
https://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Chilly-Evaporative-Cooling/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1466454315&sr=8-3&keywords=frogg+toggs
Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad. This is my go-to item on the few occasions I actually visit during the summer. Just run it under water and wrap it around your neck. It helps SO much.
My time to shine! I'm big into canoe camping. All the links I'm giving you are from Amazon Canada but you can get the same stuff on Amazon USA.
Now you're all set for anything you have to cook.
Food suggestions:
I tend to not eat three meals a day when paddling. I have breakfast and dinner and maybe some snacks during the day.
Be mindful that if you are paddling and hiking and portaging you're going to be burning huge amounts of calories. If you're just lazing about on a dinghy maybe not so much.
Put some of these on the outside of your holster to thwart the heat sensors!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00D7H9LIA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484611014&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=hand+warmer&dpPl=1&dpID=51DuDIkzxdL&ref=plSrch
There is a 4-season version that is also on sale today.
Truth. I've backpacked for years with a $100 Kelty tent - heavy rains and wind no problem - and a $100 Marmot bag. Somewhere around 2005 it suddenly became easy to get good, cheap outdoor gear. It's not ultralight, but it's close enough.
The pad is a different story. Until recently you had to spend big to get something comfortable and reliable. Now that Thermarest has competition, prices have been halved. Our Klymits have lasted many nights outside with no problems, and I see great reviews for similar pads at half the price.
For water filtering, check out sawyer squeeze. They also have a mini version, but I'd say the squeeze is worth the extra money & weight for increased flow rate and less clogging.
The klymit static v sleeping pad is on massdrop right now.
The brs 3000t stove is often recommended a super light canister stove.
Or if your just boiling water and not actually cooking meals on your stove then a lot of redditors love their jet boils.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1519576802&sr=8-3&keywords=mora+knife+stainless
You have fishing line, hooks and lead but no knife. I see a multi tool but I think it’s worth the weight to add a fixed blade knife. It’s useful for preparing fish, cutting wood, and so much more.
Watch this or one like it to drop in price (CamelCamelCamel) like it does a few times a year:
Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Sandvik Stainless Steel Blade, 4.1-Inch, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_vvAPBbJBENH05
This is a great knife, great steel, and very affordable. I keep in in my GHB, a Morikniv:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BTJKB00/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WA1yCb1ZM4RDA
If you're looking for a simple cooking solution, that is what I do all of my cooking on when car dwelling. I scored an off brand one for less than $20 at Fred Meyer, so they're out there for cheaper than Amazon.
Although with a van, I would probably splurge for a 2 burner setup. I car dwell for weeks at a time, so space savings is a big deal for my setup.
I buy an assortment of dry sacks (one for socks, one for undies, one for camera/phone, etc), and keep them all in any backpack/Duffel bag that you prefer. Guaranteed to keep things dry and organized. The problem with a backpack that's waterproof, is that things still get really damp inside it if the air is wet (which it usually is at sea). These sacks keep things compartmentalized and sealed up nicely most of the time so all your socks aren't damp :)
These are the style I'm talking about: http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Products-3-Pack-Ultimate-Sack/dp/B001AZNATC
Maybe just use dry bags inside your current bags? Something like these, http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Products-3-Pack-Ultimate-Sack/dp/B001AZNATC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1381079623&sr=8-1&keywords=dry+bag
here hope this can help a little bit. Get two, one for on your head under a hat and one for around your neck. This will help keep your brain from over heating.
Drink lots of water, and eat LIGHT, think salads, but do have protein. One of my favorites is a tuna cucumber salad sandwich. It’s light and makes me feel better
Also wear moisture wicking fabrics and put anti monkey butt(or just corn starch) on your butt crack to avoid swamp ass. Depending on your gender apply in other places (balls, inner thighs, under boobs, pits) this will prevent chafing.
Have you talked to your employer about your working conditions? If they refuse to improve it I’m sure they can be reported for unsafe work conditions.
I got you - tactical spork.
Here's what I got, though I was going to consolidate it in another post this week.
So I posted this on Reddit last month after I finally got around to getting the gear we needed. There are many non-emergency items that go in the emergency kit. This guy's post really made an impact on my way of thinking. I see the car kit as not exclusively for EMERGENCIES but for all situations where you need something that you would normally have at home and you simply just don't have it, like a pair of socks or knife and fork. There are two parts to the car kit, the Emergency Car Kit (which goes in a pack in the back of the car) and the Supplemental Car Kit which goes in between the front seats which is for a specific emergency where there's an accident and you need to get out and help someone asap. Some of the stuff is duplicated, because I like redundancy and they're needed in both scenarios: asap (supplemental) and general purpose (main car kit).
Supplemental Car Kit:
Here are the additions to the Emergency Car Kit:
Emergency Car Kit:
Here you go.
I found it for sell on Amazon for under 6 bucks so Im going to grab one. [Tactical Spork Amazon Link](http://www.Ka-Bar.com/ Tactical Spork (Spoon Fork Knife) Tool 9909 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FYJ6ICK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_fIiPDbP87K6SN)
Ka-Bar Tactical Spork
https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Tactical-Spork-Spoon-9909/dp/B01FYJ6ICK
Go with an 18650 battery. They will last along time.
Skilhunt H03 LED Headlamp 18650 EDC Flashlight Max 1200 LED Lumens Waterproof Cree LED Headlight for Outdoor Sports Camping Light FloodLight(Neutral Light) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HGHIAD8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_E83rDb6K8DE4M
Sawyer Squeeze, $25, 3.2 oz
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005EHPVQW
---
This is a popular filter for backpacking. It removes all bacteria (not viruses, but in Banff that should be okay). There are no chemicals or wait time - you simply push dirty water through the filter and out comes pure water.
You will scoop up water with the provided bag, screw it onto the filter, roll/squeeze, and either drink the water directly - or fill up your clean bottles/bladders for drinking/cooking later.
(the Sawyer Mini is also an option, for slightly less money/weight. I recommend this Squeeze because it requires less frequent cleaning and has a higher flow rate so filtering water is faster)
Lifestraws are kind of pointless because there's no way to fill containers. Most of the hiking community including myself use one of these:
Sawyer Squeeze
Also, jesus dude... carry an air pump? How heavy is your backpack????????
No worries at all on the questions, i hope i can help.
​
>How much extra gear do you find yourself carrying for your little man?
Not all that much actually. Extra sleeping bag and pad, children's versions of all the normal first aid meds i carry, a little extra food, his blanket that he sleeps with, and a couple of books for bed-time stories.
>What are you guys doing for water?
Sawyer Squeeze water filter. That thing has been great. A side note that will probably not apply to you when taking a small child out: if you are going to be out in below freezing temps take special care not to let your filter freeze. When the water freezes and expands it will break the ceramic filter media and while water will still flow through it it will not necessarily be safe to drink.
> How did you prep him for the long days and potentially scary nights?
We've been on day hikes of varying lengths before and the nice thing about backpacking is its kind of self-limiting; you go as far in a day as your least capable team member then stop and set up camp. As far as scary nights i've found, for my son anyways, that as long as i'm relaxed and comfortable he will be too so it really wasn't an issue.
> What expectations do you have for your pace?
This first trip we did about 5 miles with no complaints at all. I'm planning a trip this fall and am expecting that we can make 10 miles a day. Again, though, if we get out there and find that this is too much we will just stop at the nearest site and set up camp rather than pushing on to the shelter.
> What do you expect your son to carry?
This first trip he was almost 6 years old and all he carried in his pack was his water bladder, a change of clothes, his toy binoculars, and his blanket. Probably came out to 2 or 3 pounds. Later this fall i'm hoping i can bring that up a little bit and let him carry some of the food. His little coleman backpack is very small and with as quickly as he's growing i'm not really ready to buy him a nice pack yet that will only last him a year or two.
​
Hopefully we'll see you and yours out there in a few years; happy trails!
For 29$, you could get a Sawyer Squeeze water filter and save ~13oz
For ~150$ you could get a Hammock Gear Burrow Econ 30 to replace your sleeping bag and save ~24oz. A lot of people recommend the wide quilts, as Hammock Gear standards are designed for hammock sleeping.
A lot of people here will recommend not bringing a second pair of clothes. Just hike in the same clothes every day. Could save ~25oz.
If you install Gaia GPS on your phone, you could drop the delorme and save ~7oz. Not sure if its an InReach that you're using to keep in touch with people when you don't have service. Another personal call.
*Edit: Fixed weight savings for quilt.
Check the MSR Pocket Rocket. It's $35 and it weighs 3 oz.
The fuel canister is about 8oz. It boils a liter of water in under 3.5 minutes rain or shine. Wind can be a little tricky. I have been using one for a couple years now with no complaints.
Most important function: Making morning coffee.
I mean no disrespect, but I also tend to be rather blunt: There is a lot of work that needs to be done to this bag. It seems really thrown together, out of an amalgamation of random stuff that's vaguely "outdoorsy".
Firstly, the bag itself. There's probably a reason it was in the trash, and my suspicion is that it wasn't because it was well built, durable, and comfortable. Good bags can be had for not much money and there are definitely used options on Craigslist and at outdoor store garage sales if you're on a shoestring budget. Your bag has to be able to take the abuse of multiple days and many miles of rucking.
FOUR knives? And they are all folders to boot? And you're trying to tell me this isn't "bloated"? Come on. Get one good multitool like a Leatherman, or keep the Gerber if you must (you don't need 87 bits for your Gerber in the woods, either). Maaaybe carry a fixed blade, too, if you really think you'll be needing it.
Mess kit: That looks bulky as hell, and aluminum has an incredibly low melting point (something like ~1200F) which is easily attainable in a mature fire. Hello melted mess kit. If you are really just bugging out you shouldn't need to cook anything. Calorie dense food bars, jerky, nuts etc. should be sufficient. Get a super small mess kit like this amazing one from GSI Outdoor and use this very cheap but decent backpacking stove and you have a lightweight, highly functional way to cook, boil water, and drink for under $25.
Blade sharpener? If you somehow manage to dull all four of your knives in a few days you're doing something wrong. Save the blade sharpener for the Zombies-Are-Attacking INCH bag or whatever.
Sunscreen and bug repellent are both great. that said, you are carrying almost as much sunscreen as you are water. Embellishing, of course, but that's a fucking lot of sunscreen.
I would also seriously work on flushing out that medical kit. If you don't have much first aid training, that's fine (though you should get some) but a basic boo-boo kit will be really functional. Gauze, small band-aids, some medium sized non-stick pads, alcohol wipes, burn cream and/or antibiotic cream, tweezers, rubber gloves, pain relievers, anti-diarrheals, generic antihistamines (for regular allergies and allergic reactions), etc. etc. Avoid pre-built medical kits and avoid things you don't know how to use.
The MSR filter is actually fantastic, can't fault you there. That said, something like a Sawyer Mini would be a fair bit lighter, and has integral water storage should you need more.
Metal water bottle: Looks like a thermos, which is great for keeping your coffee warm on the way to work but is single-use and heavy in the backwoods. I'd suggest changing it out for a widemouth single-walled metal container like those from Klean Kanteen because now not only do you have a way to store water, but you also have a way to boil it! And you can cook in it if absolutely necessary. And you can fill it up with hot water and add it to your sleeping bag to stay warm.
Wait...where is your sleeping bag? I know you mentioned having some miscellaneous camping gear in your car, but what if you need to abandon your car? Look at even a simple bivy sack like this one from SOL. Coupled with a lightweight tarp and you have a functional survival sleep system. Throw in a small inflatable pad for insulation from the ground and you can survive in all but the most inclement of weather.
Lose the rat traps and 200(!!!) fishing hooks in exchange for calorie dense food bars and other foods that need little or no preparation. Try to stay above 130 calories/gram and pay attention to things that are high in protein, fiber, and fat. You're bugging out, remember? Not sitting around camp all day with a cold one and your rod in the lake.
Substitute your few cheap (read: heavy and unreliable) flashlights for one good one. Something like a Four Sevens Quark AA2 or something from Fenix, Nitecore, or Olight. It will be reliable, well built, and powered by an efficient driver to produce multiple modes of light and provide for good run time. Get something that takes standard AA or AAA batteries. Avoid CR123As.
Noticeably lacking are things like a map and firestarters. You mentioned a ferrocerium rod. Instead of spending $7.00 on a decent one of those, get three BIC lighters and a pack of waterproof matches in a container. And save a couple bucks in the process. Ever started a fire with a ferro rod? It sucks. I've done it. I do it for fun and honing my skills occasionally. But a simple ass BIC will work 100 times better in almost any situation.
Add a high quality, water resistant topographical map of your region. Do you know how to use that compass? I'm not talking about pointing it north, but for things like triangulation or magnetic declination or navigating to a point on your map by finding a bearing. There are tons of Youtube videos out there that will help you in understanding these techniques if you don't already. A compass by itself is near useless.
How about things that you're more likely to encounter?
Throw in a charger for your phone, or maybe one of those $5 burner flip phones and a $10 minutes card in case yours dies. Take the battery out (should be removable on a cheap pay-as-you-go bog standard phone) and write important numbers on the inside.
How about wiping your ass? Go to your nearest Walmart and hit the toiletries section. You'll find bins of $1.00 miniature travel accessories. I'd recommend a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant bar, personal wet wipes (preferably biodegradable), Chapstick, and some baby powder or Gold Bond. Throw it all in a gallon Ziplock or a small pouch. Now you can survive in the woods AND survive overnight a friend's house after you get too drunk and can't drive.
I see nothing for cold weather gear. I know it's summer but depending on where you are night time can still be cold as hell. Add a beanie, wool gloves, a fleece underlayer, a poncho or rainproof hard shell jacket, and a change of GOOD wool socks.
Lose the 9 million feet of paracord. 50ft should be plenty sufficient (if that) especially considering the inner strands are strong enough for most applications.
I think that covers all my major gripes. Back to drinking and being an ass.
https://battlemug.com/
I mean we have tactical bacon...
In the '89 earthquake we were without power and water for a few days or more. Telephones didn't work (no cell phones back then). "Liquifaction" caused buildings in the Marina to slid off their foundations. The Bay Bridge was out of service for months. Then came the Northridge quake. Having an earthquake kit is being prepared. Here's some of what's in mine.
REI's Backpacking Tips for Beginners is a good place to start.
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-beginners.html
You'll notice the first section is "Find an Experienced Partner". While this sub and others can give you a lot of advice, it's not a substitute for a partner who knows what they're doing. That doesn't mean you can't just go out and "wing it"... if you do, don't bite off more than you can chew. Better to take a few shorter overnights just to get used to things before heading out into the backcountry and having an epic. And I think you need a permits for Yos/Mammoth, so better look into that.
The REI list discusses shared gear and personal gear. Most likely an experienced partner is going to already own a tent, stove, cookware... but if it's just two of you with no gear, you'll have to pick up both shared and personal gear. How you want to split the cost is up to you.
The checklists are nice... but before you go out and buy everything on the list, make sure you will actually need them. Start with the basics; tent, bag, pad, pack, headlamp, FAK, maps & compass, stove, pot, utensils, shoes and clothing... and then go from there.
Here's the REI backpacking checklist:
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-checklist.html
It's comprehensive, but remember you don't need everything on the list. It's pretty common for a beginner to go out and spend way too much money, and then start leaving stuff home as they find they don't need it on the trail.
REI is a great place to spend (a lot of) money. They've got very nice gear, and a great return policy if the gear doesn't work for you... but you'll pay full retail if you just walk in and buy the gear. With a membership, all full price items return 10% to you at the end of the year so it's not too bad, and they have seasonal 20% off coupons which do help. It's a good place to pick up a pack since they can help getting you one that fits, which goes a long way to a comfortable hike. Ditto with shoes, and you can try out mattress pads and see what's comfortable for you.
You can buy other things elsewhere like Amazon... but it's recommended that you go to a gear shop to try on packs (and buy it there to support the store).
Here are a few recommendations:
Pack - Gregory and Osprey are often recommended. For a beginner, 50L-60L is a good size. Don't get a 70L pack, you'll just end up bringing more gear than you need. Try the pack on, load it up with weights, and make sure it fits and carries well. Sometimes the REI packs will fit you better than others... if that's the case get the REI (and save a few bucks).
Tent - Huge range of products here. The Lynx is a decent starter tent for the cost. It'll probably last a few years, and by then hopefully you'll have more money and more experience and get something you like better.
Sleeping bag - If you can afford a down bag, that's great, they're lighter and pack smaller than synthetic bags. The Kelty Cosmic 20 is a good bag for the price.
Pad - Look at the basic inflatables (keep in mind the R-value if you're thinking of going later in the season) like the Thermarest ProLite. Some stick with foam pads like the Thermarest Z Lite pad to save money. Try them out and see what you like.
Stove - The MSR PocketRocket is ol' reliable. Lot of people have them, but the new MSR PocketRocket 2 is more compact and lighter. There are some cheap (< $15) stoves on Amazon, the Etekcity and BRS 3000T... people have been using them but they're small and more suited to people who are just boiling water for dehydrated meals rather than those who actually cook.
Cookset - Don't spend money on a 12 piece cookset...they're cool, but at some point you'll probably figure out you only need a shared pot and a mug for each person. And maybe a small fry pan. Depends on what you want to eat out there. Anodized aluminum is light and sturdy, but more expensive than other options. Titanium is super light, but doesn't disperse heat well so it's great for boiling water, but not so much for cooking non-liquid meals. Stainless steel is heavy but will last many years.
Spork - so many sporks out there... long handled spoons work better for getting food from the bottom of a packet.
Headlamp - Get a decent headlamp. Black Diamond Spot is a nice one, Petzl makes some nice ones as well.
Good luck!
Teton Sports has a range of sleeping bags that would fit your needs.
I have a Polara rectangular bag (I like the extra space for me feet) that has a fleece liner that I took on a scout camp that kept me warm down to 15°F. We picked up an Evergreen bag for less than $50 on Black Friday.
I like Teton sports because they have a lifetime warranty on their stuff, and they are a local company based out of Utah. They also make decent backpacks and pillows.
Mountaintop 40 liter pretty good for 40 bucks, however I'm upgrading again soon. This one is great and I've had it for about two years now with no sign of wear and tear but I wish I had gone with a 50 or 60 liter bag as the 40 really strains for space on a week long trip. Its perfect for about three days however and that's usually what I do anyway. here's some pics of mine the thing I was most concerned about was support and this does a decent enough job, I'd say 7/10. It has molded foam support which is good but a external frame style seems better to me ( however that's a opinionated subject ) id reccamend going ahead and getting either this one or a larger Teton, or the larger version of mine if your planning on staying out for more than 5 days or so. Less than that and I'd highly recommend mine :)
same ones on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AZNATC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Cheap, but they've worked very well for me.
Some bear mace should do the trick. Sprays 30 feet and is much lighter than any useful rifle or handgun.
https://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
I have a can sitting on my shelf right now. A buddy bought it for me a while back and I had it and it was actually pretty decent.
Got a Frogg Toggs version of this two years ago for 'Roo and it helped. It wasn't the be-all-end-all (nothing short of an AC'ed RV is going to be anyway), but it made the difference between suffering and surviving. I can only vouch for Frogg Toggs' version of these towels but it did help to keep me a bit more comfortable in the peak heat.
High-end option:
Zebralight SC600Fd Plus
The key points relative to your request are the color temperature and color rendering index. 5000K color temperature is a very close match to direct sunlight. CRI is a measure of how colors look relative to a blackbody radiator of the same color temperature. At 5000K, it's essentially a comparison to sunlight. The SC600Fd has a CRI of 93-95 out of a possible 100, which is about as high as LEDs get.
There's another hiccup though: Zebralight's site shows that it's unavailable for order right now. It's a new model, and production is still ramping up. I'm told they may be trying to avoid a backlog of preorders, but it's hard to estimate when it will be available.
Budget option:
Astrolux S41 - also get the 18650 battery tube as the stock configuration takes 18350 batteries with about 1/4 the capacity.
This looks like a pretty nice light, but it's had some QC issues. This, I believe is the older version with less severe issues. If you find one made of stuff more exotic than copper and black-anodized aluminum, avoid it for now. The driver is also considerably less efficient than Zebralight's on lower modes, brightness decreases as the battery drains and there's no thermal sensor to keep it from overheating.
The good news is it still has a ~5000K color temperature and over 90 (typically 93) CRI. Here's a review with measurements.
Batteries
In either case, Sanyo NCR18650GA batteries are a good choice and reasonably priced. The Nitecore F1 charger is very compact and also acts as a USB powerbank. If you want two slots and a display, the Nitecore D2 is a good deal.
If you're staying for some reason:
Go to the camping/outdoor isle of your local Walmart and buy a Sawyer Squeeze water filter. (Amazon link) I have one and use for backpacking all the time.
Also buy a bottle of Smartwater if they're still around. They hold 1 liter and the Sawyer filter is the same threading as the Smartwater bottle, so if you had too, you could fill up the Smartwater bottle with flood water, screw the filter on the end of the bottle, and drink directly from it.
NOTE: This is for filtering FRESHWATER/RAINWATER, not sea water! No water filter will remove salt from water, but it WILL remove bacteria/viruses and other junk. You will have to have a freshwater source (inland flood waters, collected water from rainfall, etc). The water in the canals down there is brackish (mix of salt and freshwater, I used to live there for 5 years).
And don't forget to fill your bathtub with water before it hits... and know that you can get water from your water heater, too. There's usually a drain valve at the bottom.
Is there a particular reason that you want a filter with a pump in it? After using several different water pumps (MSR Miniworks, MSR Sweetwater, a couple Katadyn filters, etc.), and several kinds of tablets (PolarPure, MicroPur, Portable Aqua), I would highly recommend the Sawyer Squeeze style water filters.
The only thing that I dislike: you can't allow the filter cartridge to freeze. If you do, it has to be replaced. The ceramic and fiberglass cartridges for the Miniworks and Sweetwater pumps didn't have this restriction.
Some people say that they have problems with the Sawyer bags leaking, but I haven't had this problem yet. On the other hand, I never squeeze my bag - I always let gravity do my work for me. Dehydration is a major safety issue in the backcountry, so I always carry a backup bag and MicroPur tablets, just to be safe. You can also use your stove to boil water in a pinch.
Normally I don't get really excited about particular pieces of my outdoor gear, but buying my squeeze filter really changed the way that I backpack. It used to be that producing a liter of fresh water was such a pain that I didn't want to let a single drop go to waste. Now I'm much more relaxed with my water use - I feel like I've got more time to enjoy my trip rather than stand on a slippery rock hunched over a stream.
I use this Toaks 750ml Ti pot. Weighs 3.8oz with stuff sack, and I use it to store and keep safe the rest of my cook kit plus some kitchen incidentals like coffee, tea bags, etc.
What about a [40oz Kleen Kanteen] (https://www.amazon.ca/Klean-Kanteen-Stainless-40-Ounce-Brushed/dp/B0093IS19C/) and a 750ml Toaks pot? $90 CAD plus tax for the two together.
*Edit: didn't catch the part about being made in Canada. Guessing both of these are from China...
I have a Klymit Insulated Static V. Was on sale for $45 on an Amazon deal of the day once so I picked it up. Pretty happy with it. Not sure what an additional 150 would bring to the table other than perhaps less weight or more insulation.
the model you linked is not only super heavy, but I doubt would get you near comfortable. you will also need to pair either bag with matching r value ground insulation. for instance a pad like this
https://www.amazon.ca/KLYMIT-Insulated-Static-Camping-Orange/dp/B00ANRW7DI/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1494229667&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=klymit+insulated+static+v THis is a huge mistake many people make. The ground insulation is paramount.
The model below is a better option.
https://www.amazon.ca/Sports-TrailHead-Ultralight-Sleeping-Orange/dp/B007JTLKCC/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1494229515&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=teton+sleeping+bag
It's also better to NOT compress your bag. Line your pack with a trash compactor bag, push the sleeping bag into the bottom of your pack. Not in a stuff sack.
https://youtu.be/J1UZvwPnA_o
Check out the Sawyer Squeeze. I had a lifestraw at first, but found the Sawyer Squeeze to be infinitely more useful. You can attach it to smartwater bottles and filter as you go. It is better in both day to day use and emergencies.
You only need to filter drinking and cooking water which comes to about 2L/p/d.
For personal hiking/camping use, I have something like this that'll last most of a lifetime:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B1OSU4W/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_5?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP131-PointOne-Squeeze/dp/B005EHPVQW/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1463003067&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=sawyer+squeeze
FWIW, I am around 250 and 6'1" and I bought a Klymit Static V Insulated for less than $60 new and when I'm on my side my hip and shoulder don't touch the ground. Its R-Value is 4.4 vs 5 for the StoS, so real close. I have nothing bad to say about the Klymit air mattress- its sturdy, lightweight, and packs smaller than a water bottle. I even bought the non-insulated version for summer camping.
I absolutely love Sea to Summit stuff like dry sacs, pack covers, sleeping bag liners, and pillows, but I couldn't imagine spending that much on an air mattress when one half the price is fantastic.
The Sawyer Squeeze is the reason the Mini is called the Mini -- it's a larger version of the same filtering concept. I use a Mini with absolutely no complaints when I'm out by myself or one other person. If I'm out with more than that I use an older Sawyer 3-Way in a homemade gravity rig so I can just leave it run itself.
Honestly, I can't think of one possible scenario where I'd rather have a LifeStraw than a Sawyer. Also, that Massdrop is only a two bucks cheaper ($18 shipped) if you've already got Amazon Prime, making it barely worth considering.
For $1 more, you can get any of the colors too.
https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=pd_bxgy_468_2?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B00BTJKB00&amp;pd_rd_r=Y2R9NJ56SH9NC3RHJZQ0&amp;pd_rd_w=YZbVm&amp;pd_rd_wg=RWaXh&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=Y2R9NJ56SH9NC3RHJZQ0
I vote for bar mitts and hand warmers. They work wonders. http://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers-Pair-Value/dp/B00D7H9LIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1421184080&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=hand+warmers
They work by making rust. which is cool
-I would start with finding a lighter tent first. If you don’t have the cash for new check craigslist or eBay.
-10 lbs of clothes also seems excessive (think layers and the only items I would ever consider varying more than one would be socks/underwear)
-Im not sure what your plans on food are but freeze dried/dehydrated meals and a lightweight stove would be my recommendation. One of these (https://www.amazon.com/MSR-11792-PocketRocket-Stove/dp/B000A8C5QE) and a lightweight pot to boil in would save you a lot weight.
-Your sleeping bag is also pretty heavy and depending on what the temperatures are you can find lightweight down bags that aren’t very expensive as long as the temperature won’t be under 30 degrees.
-You may want to consider a water filter if you’re backpacking in an area that has water readily available.
bro. you should be there TONIGHT! just grab one of these http://www.amazon.com/Travel-John-66911-TravelJohn-Disposable-Urinal/dp/B000NV878S and a case of power bars.
Lots of questions here about headsets, etc. Dad here, have researched this, info incoming!
Age of children - if you can put them in a back seat and have another adult back there with them, it depends on how soon they can wear a headset. Every baby is different.
Headsets. For the little babies, this is the toughest. We couldn't find any true headset, and looked into simple sound-blocking earmuffs. We tried several brands before landing on small Peltor Sport Earmuffs from https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015V1VX8/ . For babies with larger heads, you can probably start them on short flights at 4 months. For smaller heads, they may need to be 6-12 months for their head to be big enough for a proper seal.
For the older kids, get one of the Sigtronics Youth headsets https://www.sportys.com/pilotshop/catalogsearch/result/?q=sigtronics+youth . Durable, and they're not $1000 if they misuse them. I have the S-58Y and they've worked fine. The headbands swap out for adult headbands too, so they can grow with them.
Ages - if you've got an adult to sit with them in back (especially if your audio panel has a pilot isolate button), you can take them at just about any age. My wife rides in back with my little one. I am much more selective about who can ride in front. My own older kids, whom I know real well, I let. EAA wants kids to be at least 8 for Young Eagles, and that's probably as good a guideline as any for other kids.
Get them excited about it before you take them up. My little one likes to watch 5-minute segments from One Six Right with me. We put on our headsets and watch them, and she jabbers about the airplanes. I started her out just letting her hold and feel the headset. I'd show her how I always wore one and waited for her to ask for one too. It only stayed on a few seconds at first, but she wanted to try it briefly every time. With the real little ones, your life will be easier if they are used to thinking about wearing headsets and thinking of planes as exciting things.
The older ones love to watch the GPS. They are interested in how fast we are going, how high up we are, etc.
Keep your climbs and descents shallow. Kids don't know how to clear their ears. I aim for 500FPM max. You don't want them screaming in agony. For the infant/toddler crowd, have them munching on or drinking something during the climbs and descents to help with the ear popping.
Don't be that person that insists "we've gotta make time." When the family wants to stop for a break, you stop for a break. Especially if someone needs to use the bathroom. I bring Travel Johns on longer flights for the males on board. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NV878S My wife has looked at everything on Sporty's and didn't want to try any of their products that claim to work for women, so I got nothin for you there.
Finally, the best compliment you can get as a pilot is when they stay asleep during the landing.
It's better to pee before entering a crowd.. and I know nature calls sometimes but don't go peeing on people's feet. Bring one of these at least.
I didn't get this exact brand but you should look at some dry sacks like these: https://smile.amazon.com/Outdoor-Products-3-Pack-Ultimate-Sack/dp/B001AZNATC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1491536484&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=dry+bags
Great way to separate your dirty and clean clothes, keep everything dry and keep smells from spreading throughout your pack.
I talked to a wild life officer in NC about this a few months back. He actually said that in most cases hikers/campers are better off with the large "Bear Sized" pepper sprays. The reason is, most people when in an "attack" situation cannot get off well placed shots on an attacking animal ( And that in the last 2 years, he has had ~5 reports of people shooting at bears in 'self defense' and none of those people have actually hit the bears). Where the spray can "Blanket" the area. He also said that people are more likely to use the spray as a deterrent before even getting into an attack situation. Which also helps keep the animals scared of humans.
Example: http://www.amazon.com/Frontiersman-Bear-Attack-Deterrent-Holster/dp/B002E6VAHK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1331572871&amp;sr=8-1
He did however say that most officers carry 45 and that 10mm is gaining popularity for capacity reasons. The reason being that they are both devastating rounds at close range, which is where most likely you'll end up needing it. He also noted that they are not just for protecting against animals, but also against people which is why there isn't much .357.
That was the other interesting thing. He stated that many hikers/campers tend to carry CRAZY firepower. .44mag, .357, etc. Thinking that they need "Grizzly Bear Stopping" type rounds. He joked and said that they should be more scared of the people in the woods, and not the animals and a good personal defense round is what they should carry. (He noted he personally carries .45 Winchester PDX).
Personally, If I was in your shoes. I'd carry the spray, and then what ever personal defense round you feel most comfortable. The only exception to this rule may be Grizzly bears -- But IIRC That is really only an issue in like Montana.
Good alternative (*might be illegal in some states): Pepper spray can blow back to cause problems; this is the best alternative (except for the one below). The disadvantage is that is has only two shots. I knew a guy whose 10 year old got hold of it from his hiking backpack and accidentally shot it against the wall. the whole family had to get out, fast.
https://www.amazon.com/kimber-PepperBlaster-II-Gray/dp/B004MG63X6/ref=sr_1_4?crid=17UTPPY8Y257D&keywords=kimber+pepper+blaster&qid=1556830319&s=gateway&sprefix=kimber%2Caps%2C-1&sr=8-4
&#x200B;
Best alternative (probably illegal (for carry) in most states unless you are hiking. This stuff will stop a bear - really! I decided to test mine with a fraction-of-a-second shot into a (clean) empty toilet bowl. On firing it *completely* displaced all the water in the bowl which dissipated throughout the bathroom, including onto "moi". Within 2 seconds I was gasping for air (even though the stuff has been highly diluted with clean toilet bowl water). I had to run for an open window or I would have collapsed. Had to leave my place for 5 hours, and then come back and clean up the bathroom with rubber gloves. I had really uncomfortable burns on my hands and face for the next 10 hours from the initial hit of diluted spray. Makes a great bedside weapon if you are shy about owning a gun. Also, a handly concealed alternative if you are walking through a dangerous neighborhood at night. We're talking a 30 foot jet of pure heat that will deter a bear.
https://www.amazon.com/Frontiersman-Spray-Holster-Access-Strength/dp/B002E6VAHK/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3TQIN7XEN36Y&keywords=bear+spray+for+hiking&qid=1556830493&s=gateway&sprefix=bear+spray%2Caps%2C258&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1
These cool towels! You just get the towel wet, wring it out, and wear it. I usually wear it around my neck or draped over me like a blanket (if its hot inside).
One of these fuckers. Drop it into your cooler of ice. Thank me when you get back.
if you just want 1 - they are about 30 cents cheaper on amazon if you have prime, after paying for shipping on woot - otherwise this is a good deal!
Apparently its sells well.
https://smile.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Tactical-Spork-Spoon-9909/dp/B01FYJ6ICK/
If you're looking at outfitting a 72 hour kit first before building out into more standard preps, there are some low cost ways to get that done relatively quickly.
There. For less than $100, and maybe less than $50 depending on what you get or already have, your 72 hour kit will be at a base level, ready to get you out of the door. Of course first aid stuff is a smart call, and you can get as finely detailed and over packed as you like with a BOB, but as a base this will get you out and moving for a few days.
As for what you already have... the Flint and Steel fire starter is alright I guess, but there's no reason to get needlessly complicated. Get a couple of $1 Bic's in there. If you actually have to use the bag you'll appreciate the simplicity. If you really want to help yourself out with getting a camp fire started, swab some cotton balls around in Vaseline and store them in an old pill bottle. They burn for 5 minutes on their own which is plenty of time to get a fire going and saves you from needing to put tinder together. You mention a small flashlight, but I'd recommend a good flashlight with two changes of batteries stored externally from the flashlight as well as a head lamp. Moving around in pure dark is no joke, so prep for that more seriously. I'm not sure what the chopsticks are for. If it's eating... something like this knife/spork combo will probably do better for you.
For the rest of the wish list... the big questions are what are you preparing to run from, and where are you planning to run to? If you're bugging out, which should be the last possible option, then you're either fleeing something that is going to make staying at your present location unsafe or you're running away from a bad situation at home. I'd avoid planning on walking into the woods and planning on living there for a good while. If you had the skills to realistically do that well you wouldn't need advice from here. If you're fleeing home, it will almost guaranteed be toward another location where civilization is still present, so you'd want to be prepared for that. The hands down best prep you can toss in your bag at that point? Cash. The more of it you have stockpiled the more flexible you can be in reacting to situations. You'll also for sure want a spare phone charger in the backpack. If you know where you'll be heading in the event you have to run ahead of time then you can research the location a bit to find things like shelters, food banks, have a map/schedule of local public transportation, things like that.
Not knowing the answers to those two big questions, the best general advice I can give you is this. Imagine the situation where you have to grab your pack and be out of the door in 5 minutes. Think through the journey toward your destination. Really get into the minute by minute, hour by hour. Imagine the pain points of that evacuation. Did it start out warm during the day but you're shivering at night? Did you get a random headache along the way? Maybe get a small cut or some bug bites? Are you hungry or thirsty? Is is raining? Are you bored? When you get where you're going are you just lost for next steps? Identify the pain points and plan to alleviate them with how you prepare.
I'd recommend instead of that the Sawyer product line:
https://sawyer.com/products/type/water-filtration/
I use the Saywer Mini, personally:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MPH1LEU
It's excellently built, light, and filters a lot of water very fast (fast enough to drink easily, basically). I use it all the time with lower-quality tap when traveling. Everything that comes out of it tastes basically exactly the same (completely neutral). Couldn't recommend it enough; I've had it about 1 full year, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
My carlight is a Skilhunt H03 - (link to review) It's currently $32 on sale from gearbest but it's also on US amazon for $45 if you want it soon. It's a right angle light that takes 18650 batteries or 2 CR123A batteries. It can be worn using the headband, or held, or attached to a part of the car using the magnet on the tail. If you get this light, use 2 CRA123As as they can sit for a decade untouched. Just be sure to loosen the tailcap before you store it, since the flashlight itself has a small amount of passive battery drain while off that is an issue when you're speaking about multiple years.
Rechargable lithium batteries don't like the cold, and non-rechargable AAs tend to leak, so for a light you're going to just toss in your glovebox, consider using non-rechargables.
Even if you don't go with the H03, you can buy lithium AA batteries in hardware stores and toss that in your car flashlight and they won't leak on you and will turn the light on just fine a decade from now.
Edit: AA sized suggestion is the Thrunite T10 II. It's around $20 and runs on AA or 14500 (3.7V rechargable lithium AA sized battery). The NW (neutral white) version is recommended as it's closest to pure white rather than a harsher blue light.
Same suggestion as before, if you're going to toss it in a car buy some lithium AAs (non-rechargable, 1.5V) and twist the tailcap a little before storage so the parasitic drain (or accidental turn-on from a feisty pothole) doesn't get you over the course of years. It has a magnet too, which I find super useful for a car light.
Get a right angle flashlight with a magnetic base that can take CR123 batteries. It’ll double as a headlamp and those batteries last 10 years on standby. The magnetic base will stick to your vehicle to aid in repairs, and they take 18650 batteries if you want a rechargeable option.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HGHIAD8
Or, if you’d prefer a lens that allows for spotlight and floodlight:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J17ULR4
Your stove is fairly heavy, you can save 9 oz with a BRS3000 (.9 oz) and a light aluminum or Ti pot. This is the cheapest way to lighten up if you want to stay with a cannister. A DIY ethanol stove is cheaper and lighter still.
Do you need such a heavy battery?
Are you bringing a phone?
This is what I'm using now, but I don't use anything except the pot. I should have got something like this. It's more expensive but it's lighter and doesn't come with anything unnecessary. They both have stuff sacks.
> some general car camping/trail pots for cooking
I never use the same pots for car camping and backpacking. All I need for backpacking is one kettle that's shaped to be easy to pour out of. Low wide pots are harder to pour from without spilling. Something like this. For car camping I like larger enamelware pots like this.
It seems to be $53 on Amazon and $60 for your link? Am I looking at a different one?
Hey! I was in that general are too up until recently. I'm no mold expert but I can only suggest my own setup, which may come across as a non-answer, but I don't sleep on a mattress: I sleep on an inflatable air mattress, like for hiking (this one specifically). Super minimalist but for whatever reason I feel comfier than on big real mattresses. I haven't had mold/mildew problems with that inflatable mattress, mainly because…there's no 'inside' really for the mold spores to cling to, and if it gets dirty it's super easy to disinfect the outside of and just wipe down.
If you're a big-bed sort of person, there are definitely bigger (like full-sized) inflatable mattress options out there. I also like mine because with limited space, I can roll it up and stow it every morning and basically have loads of floor space back
So that's an option
Most long-distance and wilderness hikers would recommend the sawyer squeeze. Make sure to get the full size on and not the mini. Should last several years at least with proper backflushing.
Here are my personal essentials.
Also, you're going to want a sharpening system that works for you in the long run. I personally use the Spyderco Sharpmaker But there are tons of good sharpening options out there.
P.S: You're going to get a lot of people hating on your Gerbers most likely, that's because they're honestly not worth it in the long run. They use very low quality steel for the price and they don't have the best quality control. I'm not saying your Gerbers are trash or anything. But they definitely won't last very long. Just about all of the knives I listed will last you a lifetime if you treat them right, and oil/sharpen them correctly.
> Is it true that water isn't something to worry about
Water is absolutely something to worry about. Keep a few gallons on hand to get you through a couple of days, then have something to filter water with. Sounds like you are a minor so I'd stick to something more affordable like one of these sawyer filters and then get you a few smart water bottles (the 1 liter ones) as the threading fits perfect on the filter.
The tent in this picture appears to be the kind that just has 3 flexible poles. This is an example. Really easy to set up. Camp in a campground. State parks are usually pretty nice. Your car will be right there. They often have pay phones and camp hosts if you run into problems. They usually sell firewood too. Make yourself some Fire Starters, this can be a fun activity by itself. Or buy some. Pack a cooler, something to cook on and something to cook in. Here is a good link to camping food. Check out this kid camping guide and maybe go over to r/camping. Have so much fun! Camping is amazing. I have been doing it my entire life, all of my kids and their spouses camp, so far my grandkids love it too. So many amazing memories to be had.
$500 for food and the camp stove and propane? Or $500 for a grill? Those numbers seem to be very off.
I have one of these: www.amazon.com/Coleman-Bottle-Top-Propane-Stove/dp/B0009PUR5E
and a crap ton of the 1 LB propane bottles and that was well under $100 for everything. You can get a 4 pack of those 1 LB propane bottles for like $8.00 at Walmart
Honestly, this is too open ended to give appropriate advice. What are you cooking? Predominantly boiled water food, or more varied cooking? How many people are you cooking for? What climate do you live in? Will you be boiling water to purify it? Will you be using the cookset while car camping or on longer treks into the backcountry? What's your price range?
The absolute cheapest is going to be a diy alcohol stove (there are tons of different methods) and a diy can pot. The whole setup would be negligible in price and ultralight for backpacking but doesn't do much more than boil water.
Moving up are canister stoves which range from $10 for a simple stove to $100+ for a Jetboil or similar system. I have an MSR Pocket Rocket and the temperature control makes these systems better for cooking more complicated backcountry meals beyond boiling water. The downside is the canisters are not reusable and it's hard to tell exactly how much fuel you have left. Predictably, the Jetboil is very fast and efficient at boiling water but not great at more complicated cooking.
Stepping up from the diy cooking pots are any cheap aluminum pots. These can be dedicated camping pots, or just any general discount pot.
Moving beyond canister stoves you can look at liquid gas stoves like the MSR Whisperlite. These stoves cost $100-150 and depending on the model can use white gas, gasoline, kerosene, and some also have adapters for canisters. The nearly unlimited fuel source make these stoves fantastic for prepping and the refillable liquid fuel bottle allows you to always know how much fuel you have. They are larger and heavier than canister stoves (though about equivalent to a Jetboil) and don't have great heat control. I use my MSR Whisperlite as my go-to stove just because it's easier to use than wasting my canister fuel.
A step up from basic backpacking pots are titanium pots. At this point all you're paying for is less weight than your cheaper options.
You can also look at large, traditional dual burner coleman stoves. These essentially give you a normal stove-top while camping and the propane canisters are relatively cheap. Of course, these are not suitable for anything but home use and car camping.
Another option for bushcraft, depending on your climate, is to just use a campfire. Some people only take a steel water bottle and use it to boil water in the campfire for their cooking needs. This is usually too much hassle for me after a long day of hiking but I occasionally use this method depending on the trip and weather.
When you look at cooking sets, stay away from nice little kits with pots and plates and silverware and cups. All you really need is a pot and a spoon or spork. Sometimes I bring a cup and or bowl, but I think it's best to keep things simple and lightweight.
There are other options out there but I hope this answered your question. If I was to blindly recommend one complete budget-minded set right now, it would be the MSR Pocket Rocket - $40, this pot and cup combo - $11, and this spork -$3, plus a $10 isobutane canister.
The ground, water bottles, or Travel Johns
Booyah
http://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Chilly-Evaporative-Cooling/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1452153765&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=frogg+toggs
These are so amazing when its super hot outside. I had one when everyone had to wait in that awful line through the front gates on the first day. Total lifesaver considering my friend and I were waiting for ,i kid you not, four hours to get in.
So basically you want to look for backpacking equipment. REI (US) / MEC (Canada) are really good starts but are on the pricey side. Mountain warehouse is really cheap and decent.
You want a basic 4 person dome tent like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Sundome-4-Person-Tent-Green/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=4+person+dome+tent&qid=1575132084&sr=8-3
Get a small thin air mattress like this. Skip the pump, you can either blow it up with your mouth (as a backup, takes 5 min) or just ask people around you and chances are someone will lend you a pump
https://www.amazon.com/Outbound-Mattress-Portable-Air-Bed-Inflatable/dp/B07QMTN59C/ref=sr_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=single+air+mattress&qid=1575132122&sr=8-8
Bring a minimal sleeping bag, it'll be warmer than a blanket:
https://www.amazon.com/oaskys-Camping-Sleeping-Bag-Lightweight/dp/B07MFTD2YS/ref=sxin_2_ac_d_rm?ac_md=0-0-c2xlZXBpbmcgYmFn-ac_d_rm&keywords=sleeping+bag&pd_rd_i=B07MFTD2YS&pd_rd_r=6c66e499-5eb2-40e1-87b7-6d4437e76964&pd_rd_w=vX8o4&pd_rd_wg=Zyh0M&pf_rd_p=e2f20af2-9651-42af-9a45-89425d5bae34&pf_rd_r=SZ36790VW0SSX7V8MB9V&psc=1&qid=1575132166
For a pillow you can actually just stuff some of your clothes or a hoodie into the sleeping bag case and then use that as pillow. Maybe bring a pillow case so its softer against your face.
Thats about it, I usually skip the cooler and just accept I'll spent more $ on food that weekend but you can pickup a lot of food that doesn't need to stay cold. Pop tarts, nuts, PB&J sandwiches, fruits, etc can all be picked up when you land and get you through the weekend.
I usually skip the chair, just bring a nice little blanket and sit on the ground (though if its gonna rain thats not so much of an option)
https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Bottle-Propane-Stove-Green/dp/B0009PUR5E
Look for camping gear. Camping stuff is compact and made to be moved around a lot. The #1 thing I'd recommend is a bottle top propane stove. All you need is one pot and you can boil water for noodles and rice and can cook soups and reheat liquidy things. If you also bring a skillet, you can cook even more stuff!
There's lots of camping/backpacking sites out there with meal ideas. The general theme is dry ingredients that just need to be thrown together and boiled. There are even pre-made freeze dried meals made specifically for backpacking, but they probably won't meet the cheap criteria.
I just want to throw out that I've been using Axiom panniers and racks for years and have yet to have a problem. They are a bit less expensive (especially the racks). But i do know that ortlieb have a great reputation so if you have the money to burn go for it. I wouldnt worry about anti-theft devices on the pro models. If you really want to be safe, take your bags with you or get a small cable lock and loop it through your bags when you lock up your bike.
As far as food, I hate carrying cooking supplies. So the only thing i bring on my trips are a small gas stove like the msr pocket rocket for boiling water. then i just pour it into freeze dried meal bags like these and eat it out of that. One large pouch can feed two people. during the day i eat granola bars, bananas, and other dry quick food.
be very mindful of how you pack things. i keep clothes and things i need to keep dry near the bottom of my panniers and things like tents and jackets near the top. stuff you'll want immediately when it starts raining need to be accessible without pulling out things you dont want to get wet.
EDIT: Get fenders. fenders will keep mud and water from getting all over your shit, your bike, and yourself. and clean your bike often. it will keep things moving reliably and efficiently. I'm from new england and we get quite a bit of shitty weather around here and deal with shitty roads. bike maintenance is key when you're stressing it all day long. lube your chain often. also, iodine pills. this will allow you to fill your water bottle wherever you find a stream.
There are cheap stoves that cost $20 and weigh a couple ounces. Most are knockoffs of the Pocket Rocket:
https://smile.amazon.com/MSR-11792-PocketRocket-Stove/dp/B000A8C5QE/
Get a canister at any outdoors shop and you're good to go. Maybe make a windscreen out of aluminum foil and get a lightweight pot to complete the setup.
Sounds to me like a normal Pyrex beaker would work just fine.
If you don't have a Bunsen burner available--not good practice to go heating chemicals on your stove--you can either get a small hot plate, or some kind of small gas burner, like a backpacker's stove (what I use).
I've had an MSR Pocket Rocket for about 5 years.
http://www.amazon.com/MSR-11792-PocketRocket-Stove/dp/B000A8C5QE
The fuel canisters cost about $5, last quite a while if used conservatively and are able to be found everywhere.
Hey! I'm also looking to start NOBO 2017 around that same time. I have some backpacking experience. Mostly weekend overnight trips over the past 3 to 4 years. I just got back from finishing a 7 day shakedown hike on the Georgia section (Springer to Dicks Creek Gap). Once you start picking up some stuff, I would highly suggest at least trying a 2 or 3 night hike to get a feel for your gear.
I've been slowly upgrading to more lightweight items over the past few months ... after obsessively reading this sub as well as /r/ultralight. Here is what I'm currently using. Hope this helps!
I use an alcohol stove. The one I have is made by these guys from those heavy aluminum beer bottles. It will not crush easily and comes with a windscreen. You could just make your own though.
There are other companies who make alcohol stoves and even sell them on Amazon.
Lots of people like Esbit stoves but the fuel is harder to come by.
For a canister stoves I think UL folks go with the MSR Pocket Rocket but I am not sure because I haven't used one in over 8 years.
Travel John and a blanket....just make sure he doesn't shake it off more than 3 times.... otherwise he's playing with himself.
TravelJohn-Disposable Urinal (6 pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NV878S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_zJKfzbVBTPN82
I got these during my first pregnancy when I had a brutally long commute with no easy bathroom locations. They're not perfect and can't hold a, "my bladder is exploding" amount of pee but they're better than nothing.
http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Products-3-Pack-Ultimate-Sack/dp/B001AZNATC/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1462158280&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=dry+bags These bad boys. Picked up two sets for dirt cheap. Yellow bag #1 tent w/ air mat left inside. Yellow bag #2 clothes. Red bag #1-2 food. Blue bag #1 needful things and hygiene. Blue bag #2 is trash items. Between those, the only thing I have loose in my pack is cookset and my water filter, both are kept in the pouches they came in. It makes unpacking at camp a breeze.
They look exactly like this product on amazon (which you get 3 different sizes included):
http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Products-3-Pack-Ultimate-Sack/dp/B001AZNATC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1342450734&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=dry+bag
I actually own this set myself, they work great! :)
If you are camping in an area that has bears, you need to be prepared for bears.
This means hanging a good bear bag and having bear spray on you in a holster type carry.
This guy hangs the best bear bag I've ever seen and I use this style every time out now. Bears will climb a tree pretty quickly if you just hang your food from an easy branch. He hangs his in the middle of two trees where the bear will never be able to get to it. He also uses a [dry-sack](http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Products-3-Pack-Ultimate-Sack/dp/B001AZNATC0 (example only) to hang his food to minimize the smell.
You DO NOT want to find a bear interested in your camp in the middle of the night. You should take every step to lower your scent footprint and to be prepared to run one off.
I'll play. Let's assume bugging in. No wind in your house, right? You don't live within 1000' of a school, right?
Answer: Pepper spray. Or mace, or whatever, preferably this.
And now the flip side: you just sprayed a hell of a lot of a toxic substance inside your house. But you had time to put on eye, nose and mouth protection, right? And you can close yourself off from that room for hours so that the toxins can settle a bit? And then you can go clean that room without getting it in you eyes, etc.?
Huge pain in the ass, but way better than letting a home invader get the best of you.
Also, while they are rolling around on the ground, holding their face and screaming, beat the crap out of them with your baseball bat.
Go with bear spray, more range than pepper spray
Go for the stuff marketed as "bear spray"; the thirty-foot range puts you a little further from the attacker, and you don't need more than the 7-8 ounce size which fits conveniently in a jersey pocket. Most sprays only have a ten-foot range.
A rape siren is usually better at dissuading wildlife than the pepper spray; the sound drives them just as nuts as it drives you.
Tactical bacon!
You know this is a real product, right?
TacBac, Tactical Bacon.
Tactical bacon
Haven't seen Frogg Togg yet. Will never hit another festival without one.
https://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Chilly-Evaporative-Cooling/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1483725398&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=frogg+toggs
I got this Cooling Towel
I wrung it out with ice water and it was good for a few hours! Then I poured more ice water on it from my water bottle and it was very cold. I don't have air conditioning in my car and just put this on my lap/arms etc.
[frogg togg] (http://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Togg-Chilly-Pad-Blue/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1405705210&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=togg+frogg)
I love my Cooling towel If I'm out in hot weather it'll keep cool for a good 3 hours. And this Silicone Popcorn Maker makes great popcorn in the microwave. Threw out our old air popcorn maker that didn't work all that well.
Coleman Sundome 4-Person Tent, Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_D6l8CbJ85YSX1 this one is super roomy and durable, me and a friend share a 4 person which is only like $50 and its suped roomy and nice for such a cheap price
These are just suggestions, I'm sure there are cheaper or better quality alternatives to these, but it's a good start.
Also, you're a cool brother.
How are you going to get filtered water into your bladder? Or effectively get unfiltered water out of it? I do not think the lifestraw can be connected in line with a hose either.
I would look at something like the Sawyer Squeeze: better filtration, can filter more gallons (100,000), able to screw onto a bladder/bottle or use inline with hydration hose (connect between end of hose and mouthpiece).
Or Aqua Mira drops.
> Tactical Bacon
I mean... If you're going to give him Tactical Bacon, Unicorn meat should also be on the list. Unicorns are fragile and might not survive the apocalypse. Therefore Unicorn meat will be worth a fortune when bartering for other survival items.
He'll also need a tactical spork if he decides to actually eat the bacon, or unicorn meat.
My kids bought me an assault spork.
https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Tactical-Spork-Spoon-9909/dp/B01FYJ6ICK
H03
Take a look at Astrolux S41. It is $30 on Amazon. XTAR MC1 charger is good quality and $8 on Amazon. I would not buy batteries from Amazon though, get a couple IMR 18350 cells from Mtn Electronics for about $12 shipped making this light well under your budget.
Things you might not like are that it is longer (3.2") than you want and it has a normal reverse clicky tail switch. The light does come with deep carry clip and lanyard. The real draw of this one is the output, 1400+ lumen quad emitter which at this price is hard or impossible to find elsewhere. With a little practice turbo and strobe are readily accessible or the light can be configured to turn on directly into these modes using mode memory.
Regarding using it as an impact tool no light in this price range will be designed to withstand heavy abuse but it does come in a stainless steel variety which would hold up better than aluminum. The steel version is S41S and is often available at Banggood for $35 but currently is $42, still barely within budget if you skip the spare battery. As far as best you can get in this price range, I think this is it.
It shows up for me. It's listed for 70 dollars without batteries.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07YS9L6R1/
Petzl e+LITE headlamp
Katadyn Micropur water purification tablets
Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system
Titanium Shepherd stakes
Victorinox Swiss Army classic
Morakniv Companion knife
Darn Tough Merino wool socks
What is the difference between the Katadyn and the Sawyer Squeeze?
http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-PointOne-Squeeze-Filter-System/dp/B005EHPVQW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1333648214&amp;sr=8-1
Trowel: If you can't find a hundred rocks, sticks, and pieces of wood that can dig a hole for your deuce, you're not looking hard enough. I prefer flat rocks, myself.
Filter: I'm not a huge fan of tablets/drops, but I also solo primarily, so I don't want to have a 1lb+ filter system. My solution was to get a Sawyer PointOne Squeeze Water Filter System. It works like a charm, filters quickly, and serves as a backup bladder in case your primary water vessel is damaged. It functions in the same way as an inline filter. If you want to have a drink immediately, you just attach the filter to the dirty water bladder, and drink from the clean end. 3oz for the filter and the small bladder.
Water Bottle: The Nalgene is dead weight. If you're smart and careful, you can get away with a bottle and a backup bladder for less weight than the Nalgene, alone. I picked up a Smart Water bottle a while back, and have been using it ever since. Modern 'disposable' water bottles are so absurdly over-designed that they're strong enough to stand up to everyday use. (Especially those made by soda companies, as they usually design their bottles with enough toughness and wall thickness to withstand the pressure of carbonation.)
Toothbrush: Unless you've inherited Andre the Giant's hands, you don't need a full toothbrush handle. Cut that sucker in half! Then drill holes in it for more weight savings! Then brag to all of your friends about the amazing weight savings your toothbrush modification provides! (It's late, I'm tired and delirious. Sue me.)
Cookset: Depending on what sort of stuff you're cooking, you can get away with a lot less than what you've got. Now, if you're going gourmet, I can see having 2lbs of cookstuffs, but as a soloer who cooks mostly by re-hydration, my cookset weighs (and this is just an estimate) about 8oz, with fuel. My pot is a modified Heineken Keg Can, and my stove is from Minibulldesign. It's enough for packaged backpacking meals, ramen, pasta and sauce, soup, tea, coffee, oatmeal... Nothing too fancy, but good enough.
Tent Stakes: I can't see what you've got or how many, but I'll just throw out my personal preference in case it happens to be lighter than whatever you've got.
Collapsible, silicone
0.7L TI, Usable on a stove, $35 (flash companion is 1L, $50-60)
0.45L smaller TI mug at $20
Or any other light-ish mug... GSI enamelware mugs are like $4. If you want to heat/rehydrate in succession, I'd recommend getting something with a lid, optionally double-walled/insulated so you don't need a cozy. Keep in mind if you get a double-walled mug, you won't be able to heat stuff up in it in a pinch.
Edit: Alternatively, if you and your wife are willing to share a pot, sell your flash cup and get a pot. More fuel efficient, less stuff to carry.
An aluminum or titanium pot would save 80-100g. This $35 titanium pot looks good. Using a lightweight plastic cup would save 50-60g.
Maybe try a DIY alcohol stove, which would save about 400g on a weekend trip. (On longer trips a canister stove has reasonably good weight efficiency.)
2kg is pretty heavy for a sleeping bag. Switching to a down quilt would save about 1500g. Enlightened Equipment is a great brand with really good prices.
Your pack is probably fine for now, but once you've upgraded your other gear and you have a better idea what capacity you need, you could probably save 800-1000g with a lighter pack.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009B98FGW/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1465500857&amp;sr=8-3&amp;pi=SY200_QL40&amp;keywords=titanium+pot+backpacking&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=41U7k4-BtyL&amp;ref=plSrch
Stove: BSR Ultralight stove
Spoon: Toaks Ti Long handle
Pot: Toaks Ti 750ml
Fire: Bic Mini
Seasoning: Tabasco in 30ml plastic dripper bottle
Water bottle: Smart Water 1L (x2)
Purification: Boil (winter) Sawyer Squeeze (other 3 seasons)
Meals: Mountain House, Packit Gourmet, SPAM singles, trail mix
I eat right out of the bag for the dehydrated meals
Those are the poles, I actually edited my reply, perhaps while you were typing out yours.
I cant really say anything about the tent, you will have to trust the reviews. It still looks a bit heavy at almost 7lbs but with your budget I am not sure how much better you can do. You would need to bump up to probably close to $200 just for the tent. (For example: my wife and I took the marmot limelight 3 person tent out and it weighs in at just under 7lbs, I still felt it was really heavy splitting the cost.)
That sleeping bag has actually been debated recently. For the price it is hard to believe the claimed rating, there are concerns that it wont be warm enough. If you do go with that one you might want to try it out somewhere close to home/car first if you can.
I don't have a lot of experience with specific sleeping pads but the klymit static V insulated is a pretty popular budget option and has a 4.4 r value. It is currently $55. Its comfortable enough , my wife used that one when we went out.
If you happen to be near an REI check and see if they are having a members garage sale on December 1st, many locations are. They can have some huge discounts on gear, you just have to be careful before you buy as there are no returns. I got a 3.4lb 2 person tent for 60% off and the REI magma 10 sleeping bag for 50% off. The prices might be a little more than your current budget but you can really find some awesome prices on quality gear. If you aren't already a member it will be $20 to join (lifetime membership).
Since weight isn't your biggest concern, I have a Klymit insulated static V and while not the lightest it's very reasonably priced compared to an Xtherm and comfortable at 2.5" thick. Currently going for $52 on Amazon, R value 4.4 and 25 oz, or the 'lite' version which is 19 oz and going for $75
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ANRW7DI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kcBwyb9FMZQG5
> all this.. Can you link to a sleeping pad? I'm assuming its not the same thing as an air mattress.
This is what i currently use, Klymit Static V Insulated
But i have also used just a reflective sun shade for large trucks.
What is the weather and expected temps for where you are going.
Probably not, unless you have something to insulate you from the ground. You need a sleeping pad, and not just a regular air mattress. Something that is specifically designed to keep you warm when sleeping on the cold ground. Sleeping pads are usually rated by an "r-value". The higher the "r-value", the warmer it should keep you. There are cheap foam pads to very expensive inflatable pads. Doesn't look like you're form the US, so I am not sure how hard it would be to get your hands on a Klymit Insulated Static V, but they're pretty affordable, comfortable, and warm. They're not great for backpacking but they are great for car camping.
I would go with a squeeze or gravity fed filter instead. They'll be lighter and usually cheaper than a pump filter, too. Most people prefer the Sawyer Squeeze or the Sawyer Mini.
For a BOB and at that price, I'd get a Mora Companion fixed blade.
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https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1538171509&sr=8-3&keywords=mora
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EDIT: At a higher price, I'd get an ESEE 3-5 with the hard sheath. Both suggestions come with a nice hard sheath.
usually full-tang for strength (although partial-tang moras are nice), at least 1095 steel (not cheap chinese stainless, although mora and fallkniven use good quality stainless)
grind can be either scandi or flat or saber, with scandi being strongest and thickest blade, easiest to sharpen but harder to cut through something or do fine work due to the blade thickness, and flat grind harder to sharpen but easier to cut through things but slightly weaker blade, with saber being more rare and basically inbetween the two
no bullshit serrations because you won't be able to sharpen that or do fine work with it
my perfect bushcraft knife would be full-tang, spear point, saber grind, about 4-5 inches, micarta handle (so it stays grippy when wet), so something like a L.T. Wright GNS Saber or Fiddleback Forge KE Bushie or GSO 4.1 or ESEE PR-4.
but those each cost like $200-$300 and I have an aversion to spending that much on one thing when I can just buy an Old Hickory Butcher Knife, a Morakniv Companion and an Opinel No.7 all for literally $40 combined and have a bunch of different knives suited for different situations (butcher knife for hacking/batoning, mora for general use, opinel for fine work)
edit: woah this dude modded an old hickory
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ziV3R9Jcro
another dude who mods old hickories
https://longmireknives.wordpress.com/my-work/
I hide from all cold like a total freak and tell everyone that I am "allergic to cold". But seriously...
I have a heated blanket in my bed.
I keep gloves in every jacket that I own just in case.
I buy hand and feet warmers (http://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers-Pair-Value/dp/B00D7H9LIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1414044114&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=hand+warmers) and stash them everywhere.
I wear sheepskin booties when I'm in the house.
I wear UGGS (I hate the way they look, but they keep my feet warm).
Lots of hats and scarves.
I have a little heater on my desk at work.
I tried nifedipine, but I hate it. I have also tried viagra, but it gave me huge headaches.
Basically, I do my best to bundle myself up all the time even in summer.
If you know that you'll be going past a water source, like a river, you could always bring a portable water filter. Sawyer makes one that's pretty compact.
Use Camel Camel Camel. It's a website that will notify you when the price of the product you are looking for has a price drop. http://camelcamelcamel.com/Coleman-2000007827-Sundome%C2%AE-4-Person-Tent/product/B004J2GUOU
All you have to do is enter the URL of the exact product you want and enter the price you want it to drop to and your email so you can be notified. Great thing is, they don't spam you with junk emails in between the notifications!
Polo and Izod shirst are pretty cheap, I got a couple for work at about $17, they are usually about $40. I
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006O2SQEU?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00
This is something you don't need, but they are super fun to throw around the office. A shitload of styrofoam planes for less than 10 bucks!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001D99IUA?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00
This tent, I actually got it for $48 when I bought it.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J2GUOU?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00
Camping gear does have a startup cost. Basics are: tent, sleeping bag, and something to put under the sleeping bag. The under and sleeping bag can obviously be substituted somewhat: sleeping bag or blankets/quilts, air mattress or cots, etc. A decent tent will cost at least $50. $69, 4 person, good for two+stuff. A good sleeping bag is $20-$80. $30, 0F rated. Cots can vary, if you can find them cheaper, it's worth it. $30. MILSURP is good for cots, they're incredibly simple and very much worthwhile. Most of this stuff will last for a while, especially if well taken care of.
Yeah it is a long drive, but just get up early and drive out there, takes a couple hours, and trust me, it's worth it. In Ocala, you can hike all day, then setup camp, and then walk over and go swimming in a spring, two nights in a row. But you need to either hike with a partner and self shuttle, or pay someone to drop you off on the other end of the trail. But definitely you want some easier overnights under your belt. I think Hillsborough and Starkey would be good shakedown hikes.
Edit: alcohol is cheaper, and since you're student, if you want advice on making an alcohol stove, you can start here: http://andrewskurka.com/2011/how-to-make-a-fancy-feast-alcohol-stove/
I just got one of these and it's pretty awesome. I generally carry Aquamira as a backup.
I'm not terribly concerned about Crypto, depending on the water source. I do treat all water, because I don't trust other hikers not to shit near it. How I treat it depends on where I am: Sierra? I'm generally OK with chemicals and maybe a bandanna. One of my local spots with free-range cattle nearby? I'll filter even the best looking water. With the new filter being so light and fast I might just use it all the time. No wait time is nice.
If you're really concerned you could get this for $30.
The life straw and aquamira are both good choices. However I found that the life straw was overly bulky and large for the job it completes. Also I had two of the aquamira carbon elements break on me. My suggestion is to go with the sawyer mini - http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FA2RLX2/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1417445721&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SX200_QL40
Or the sawyer squeeze- http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005EHPVQW/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1417445858&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SY200_QL40
(Sorry I don't know how to condense these links.)
If you look at their weight vs. Filtering capacity it's almost unbelievable. They weigh just ounces and it's something like 100,000 gallons for the mini and 1,000,000 gallons for the squeeze. Plus walmart sells these so they are never to far away. Best $20 I ever spent!
https://www.amazon.com/TOAKS-POT-750-Titanium-750ml-Pot/dp/B009B98FGW
I googled for everyone:
> 750ml mug-shaped titanium pot
And this came up. Looks cool.
These are a little spendy but are actually purpose built. Honestly though, having gone down this road a number of times I would suggest sticking to an aluminum or titanium cook pot to boil your water in and use your favorite over the counter bottled water brand bottle of choice. I personally like Smart Water brand. They're stupid durable, available in a variety of shapes and sizes. When you're done with your camping trip just throw it away and get another one next time.
Me and my friends hike in the ozarks once or twice a year. Actually we're going down there March 30th - April 2nd for my bachelor party, just doing an easy loop around the Council Bluff Lake. We're going to span it out over a few days to leave more time for drinking and shenanigans. But typically we try to do a new section each time we go out. What section are you doing? Bell Mountain is a good one if you're looking. Quite a bit of elevation change for a missouri trail, but some nice sights along the way. But then if you're only staying one night, you might not have time for a section that includes Bell Mountain. Maybe you should consider the Council Bluff Lake trail too. It's supposed to be a really easy section, 12.5 miles and relatively flat. Water access from the lake at all times (get a filter of some kind) and could be done in one day if you needed to. Camping only allowed more than 500 feet from shore FYI.
Okay, for your real question, gear.
-Get a water filter (I have the MSR Sweetwater Microfilter, it's awesome) that way you know you can get water if you need it and it will be clean
-it seems ridiculous, but I really recommend you get some trekking poles. They help immensely.
-Get some good waterproof boots. Splurge on some good hiking boots if you think you're going to keep hiking. Your feet will thank you. nothing more miserable than being 10+ miles from civilization with blistered and bloody feet.
-A headlamp. Seriously useful for when the sun goes down. Doesn't have to be fancy.
-What are you doing for food? For a one day trip, you probably won't need much, but consider picking up a cheap backpacking stove. I can vouch for this one and you'll need to buy a canister of iso/butane fuel. The fuel is best and way cheaper to buy in a store. Just check out Bass Pro or something.
-A lightweight pot like this one to cook in. It's perfect size and incredibly light. Don't forget utensils if you need them. And consider bringing some bags of tea. It's amazing how nice a hot cup of tea is in this scenario.
-Lightweight food, like Mountain House freezedried food is awesome for backpacking, but expensive.
-Take a lightweight pocket knife. Doesn't need to be fancy, just a basic cutting edge.
-Water bladders or nalgenes to pump your water into. I will usually use a 3L Platypus bladder for bulk storage and then a 1 or 2L camelbak with a drinking tube to drink while I'm walking. Depending on water availability, of course. If there is frequent water availability, I carry less. Water is HEAVY.
-Take some kind of rain gear if you think it might rain, along with a rain cover for your backpack. Being soaked in the cold is miserable. And not being able to get warmed up because your tent and sleeping bag are soaked can even be dangerous.
-Take a spare pair of dry clothes to wear at night at your campsite along with some flip flops or something. Believe me, you'll want to be able to take your boots off but still walk around the campsite.
-Bring gloves and a hat. Bring at least one pair of spare socks
-Bring a basic first aid kit
-some way to start a fire. I use those long bic lighters for bbqs. Also I cheat with those esbit firestarter cubes when it's wet
-Print off a copy of the the map for the trail you're following and laminate it
Things I discovered that all newbies buy but after the first trip realize they don't need:
-A saw
-An axe
-One of those red plastic mallets to drive in tent stakes
-A giant knife
-A Machete
-A camping chair
-Battery charger
-Solar powered everything (okay, a solar lamp or something might be okay if you want to carry the weight)
-A bunch of paracord
I don't know, I'm sure I missed some stuff, but I'm bored and excited about my upcoming trip and thought I'd ramble off a few things. Hope you have fun!
Amazon
Any thoughts on this one: KLYMIT Insulated Static V Camping Pad
I also have the Klymit Static V and can't recommend it enough. It's light and packable, has a 4.4 r-value, inflates in <15 breaths, and is genuinely comfortable.
You can also get great deals on them if you look. I think I paid $40 for mine, which ain't too shabby.
I use an insulated sleeping inflatable pad with a 0 degree mummy style sleeping bag. I slept in 30 degree weather snugged as a baby. That pad in the hammock literally makes it a better sleep than my bed at home. ;)
That you're camping in Australia reminded me of this recent post in which a blogger recommends this biker-focused swag tent. Seems to be a fair deal and while I have no experience with it the blogger reckons it's a good bit of kit as you Aussies might say ;-). Most likely you won't be borrowing your parent's tent. The car-camping type tents don't really get along well with motocamping. Sleeping bags and maybe the air mattress or sleeping pad are more likely, or a bit of cooking equipment. I'll throw out some random recommendations based on stuff I like and let you decide how it fits into your $500 =).
I find backpacking equipment seems to parallel motocamping equipment in many respects. You aren't as concerned about weight on the motorcycle, but you do need compact and reliable. You may want to consider a backpacker's inflatable sleeping pad, [this is the one I have] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ANRW7DI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1). It's no mattress but it insulates you from the ground which helps keep heat in, and it provides a bit of cushion too. It will fit inside the swag, a hammock, or any compact backpacking tent, and it packs up small. I have this tent which legitimately sleeps two as long as you don't mind being close (tested with my girlfriend) and should fit a twin sized inflatable mattress which would be substantially more comfortable than the camping pad I linked above. To make an addition to your luggage, I can't recommend a tank bag enough. I have this tank bag which is truly a bargain and should fit any motorcycle.
I would also check out Aerostich's Camping Section for some ideas. Being that you're in Australia I'm not sure if you want to buy directly from them unless you can't find an item anywhere but their website, but there are tons of ideas you can get from their store that you might not find other places.
Now I'll just list off several items I can think of that I like to pack for motocamping (most are small and multi-functional items, and a few specific get-my-ass-out-of-a-jam things):
Tire plug kit, some way to put air back in the tire (compact air compressor, CO2 cartridges, bicycle pump, etc), several feet of 550 cord (AKA paracord), extra bungee cords, extra cargo net, zip ties, electrician's tape, heavy-duty trash bags (maybe 3 or 5), a small supplement to my bike's OEM tool kit & a multitool, a first aid kit that includes bug bite relief (and anything else you might want specific to the area you're traveling), a sam splint & triangle bandage, a couple ways to start a fire (waterproof matches stored in a watertight container & a cigarette lighter usually), one or two of those mylar emergency blankets, a little mild dish soap.
You might not feel the need to carry all that on a 3 day trip but a lot of it is small, cheap, and multi-funcitonal. Trash bags are to keep trash under control at camp and emergency waterproofing for gear/people, so you want the thick ones.
I think there are a couple of questions you should ask yourself first.
If you are using the Sawyer Squeeze, you could use something like 3L CNOC bags (the thread on top matches the Squeeze, unlike other bags), and the 3L CNOC bag is 3.7oz each ($23 https://www.amazon.com/Cnoc-Outdoors-Vecto-Container-Orange/dp/B07F1BBWHC). Good lightweight construction. If you plan to use Aquatabs, Aquamira, or bleach, you could use something even more lightweight like the Platypus 2L bags at 1.3oz each ($9 https://www.amazon.com/Platypus-2-Liter-Ultralight-Collapsible-Bottle/dp/B000J2KEGY/). Those do not match the Squeeze threads, but if you're not using Squeeze anyway it wouldn't matter. Both the CNOC and Platypus bags roll down to nothing when empty, and are easy to travel with. You could carry 2 of the CNOC or Platypus bags + 2 1L Smartwater bottles (again, the threading on these matches Sawyer Squeeze) for a total of 6-8oz, without using that much space, and without costing that much money. Just remember that water itself is pretty heavy, which is why most people try to camel up and drink a lot at water stops, and then not have to carry as much all day.
Here's the Amazon link . I am also in Toronto, and bought this in April. It arrived fairly quickly, and has no import duties. It says it comes with one pouch, but mine came with two bags, and the hanging pouch and adapter/tube for gravity filtering. I wasn't expecting that! I may have lucked out, or it's listed incorrectly. It was cheaper than buying it in store in the States, with the exchange rate.
If I know I am going to be in a survival situation?
Phone + Battery, 50 Flares, vehicle with a full tank of gas would be my top 3.
More serious you say? Just limiting myself to ordering online, mostly amazon -
Given a more specific survival situation, a budget, weight limit or other constraints, I may adjust my list accordingly.
Can't go wrong with a Morakniv Companion. Only $15. I love mine.
Morakniv knives. Easiest $15 you'll ever spend. Even if you do ruin it, it's only $25. But, seriously try to kill it. You will not be able to...
I have the companion linked below. I carry it while completing lawn chores and running outdoor power equipment. LOVE it. The sheath provides fast, easy access. But holds the knife very securely.
https://smile.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1486659984&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;keywords=morakniv&amp;psc=1
I carry my Swiss Tool (or a cheapo multi tool if it's just a day trip) and a morakniv straight blade:
Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Sandvik Stainless Steel Blade, Black, 4.1-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_yWq8wb7ECQP4C
Fifteen bucks and it's one of the sharpest knives I've ever owned. Plus you could lose one every trip and you really wouldn't be that upset. I can't say the same with my Swiss Tool.
I bet he'd be really surprised if you got him one of these, insanely high quality for the price: http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417826081&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=morakniv
Do you mean besides using conventional methods (tea/coffee/warm water/a hot rice sock)?
My gf uses these and they get really hot really fast. (LCS players use similar hand warmers if not the exact same ones if it makes any difference to you)
I use hand warmers to remove and prevent due. Don't wipe the due off, you will only make it worse. I use an ace bandage to hold a hand warmer like these on. They will clear and prevent due https://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers-Pair-Value/dp/B00D7H9LIA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1473213251&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=hand+warmer
http://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers-Pair-Value/dp/B00D7H9LIA/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1406786257&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=hand+warmer
Im sure any handwarmer will do but here is an example. You can also get the foot warmers which are nice because one side is sticky. When I did it I would get the urine right before I head to the test and then stick a handwarmer onto the bottle immediately to keep it warm. Im not a 100% sure about this but im guessing there is a range that the temperature needs to be, probably somewhere between 80-120 degrees Fahrenheit, I never had a problem with it being too warm but I did have a friend that was using the same method and his turned out too cold, I think its because he got the urine too early. The goal of the handwarmers is just to maintain the heat that is already there not actually warm the urine. Good luck, hope everything works out for you!
In hopes of encouraging people to do what you said, just a little push to make it even easier... $6 for 10 pairs, prime eligible! http://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers-Pair-Value/dp/B00D7H9LIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1416406520&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=hand+warmers
Thanks for the awesome idea<3
whenever my friend snowboards she brings these with her. it'll warm you up for a bit!! good luck surviving! brace yourself!
solution
Consider these if you think you'll be sitting a lot for the game:
http://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers-Pair-Value/dp/B00D7H9LIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1452014543&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=glove+warmers
Your fingers are what you really want to be worried about.
My suggestion would be to have some hand warmers in your sporran, and possibly have a pair of fingerless gloves on, if it's within uniform regulation in your band.
By tunic, do you mean a doublet? Because those are quite warm. When you're playing your body warms you up in your core, so mostly you just need to be worried about your extremities - feet and hands mainly. Thermal socks can help under your hose.
Also if it's below freezing I'd avoid playing pipes entirely.
Yeah, or Walmart, Rite Aid, whatever. They are a few dollars for a small pack, but they are one use only.
this is a must have! https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP103-Filtration-System/dp/B00MPH1LEU/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1466009311&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=sawyer+water+filter
First I'd make sure you both have all the clothing and footwear you need to be comfortable and the things you'd need for an urban day out (pack, water bottle, some snacks, etc.). Nothing ruins a day like an unexpected blister / rain shower that causes a chill / burned hand from a fire.
After that I'd consider basic survival needs and comforts that might be different in the woods. A small survival kit (and the knowledge required to use it), toilet paper, bug spray, gloves to protect your hands from heat and thorns, a tarp (which you already say you have) to escape the sun or rain, etc.. One suggestion I have that I don't see mentioned often is a lightweight foam kneeling pad. You can get them at the dollar stores in the gardening section usually and for the negligible weight and space they're worth having in my opinion. They are great for kneeling on (obviously), which you'll be doing a lot when practicing bushcraft skills like fire making, and they make a huge difference for the backside when sitting on ground / logs / rocks that are hard / wet / dirty.
With comfort and survival covered you can look at the real 'tools' of bushcraft. The most important thing, in my opinion, is a good knife for each of you. Soooo many projects / skills that are considered 'bushcraft' require / are made easier when you have a decent knife. You don't need to spend a lot (a Mora Companion is a great choice for under 10 dollars), just be sure to do your homework before spending money so you don't end up with something that looks cool but isn't practical for your bushcraft needs.
Beyond the knife I won't go into details about the rest of my suggestions but I think you'll find reasoning behind them fairly self-evident. I've been bushcrafting / camping / hunting for the better part of 2 decades now and all items I list below are all ones that I've personally used many, many times and wouldn't recommend if I didn't find them awesome and reliable. If you look into them further I think you'll find most / all are considered the best 'bang for your buck' option in their given class.
Mora Companion fixed blade knife - carbon or stainless doesn't matter, both are great: ~$12-15
Nalgene leak-proof water bottle - The cheaper HDPE bottle is actually better believe it or not: ~$5-8
Bahco Laplander folding saw - Silky saws are worth the upgrade price in my opinion but are definitely just a 'nice to have', considering Bahcos can't be beat for the price / function / reliability: ~$20-25
Sawyer Mini water filter - filters twice as good as the LifeStraw (0.1 vs 0.2 microns), lasts 10 times longer (100k vs 1k gallons), is much more versatile (you can screw the Sawyer onto a 2 litre coke bottle), and costs less to boot: ~$19
Fiskars X7 hatchet - I know you already have one bust I figured I'd mention it. For a bombproof, light weight, made in Finland hatchet it can't be beat for the price: ~$20-25
Tramontina 18" machete - great balance and blade, just sand or wrap the handle in some tape if yours isn't finished perfectly to avoid potential blisters (this is also where good gloves come in) - ~$15-18
You'll need a big backpack (around 70+ liters) in order to hold bear canisters. Considering you'll be out for around 4 days, I'd assume around 2 bear canisters would be sufficient.
Talk to rangers in the area about weather, routes, etc.- they know a lot more than you probably ever will about Yosemite.
I personally bring a lot of dried fruit and individual, home-made meals in a bag (see this website for some ideas).
Good luck! Be sure to take some means of water filtration (such as the sawyer mini), and don't be too ambitious in your first adventure.
https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP103-Filtration-System/dp/B00MPH1LEU
buy one of these
and this https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Magnesium-Starter-Compass-Whistle/dp/B016UWWS2O/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1503134173&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=flint+and+steel
that should buy you about 30 days if you don't get murdered when shit hits the fan
Does anyone have recommendations on the best pot(s) to bring backpacking? I'm looking for something that is light weight, durable, and will fit easily on my Coleman single burner propane stove
Edit: Coleman Bottle Top Propane Stove https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kLcjzbZCYHCDA
Coleman Bottle Top Propane Stove,Green,6.62" H x 7.81" W x 7.75" L https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_hZxQBb3YGJQA2
This is what I have and it works great. Can be a bit of a pain (top heavy) with my huge cast iron but it's do-able. Works perfectly fine with my smaller more standard size cast iron. For the money it's hard to beat.
Ok you need a first aid kit because YOU NEVER KNOW and rocks are sharp.
You could also use FOOD, either in dehydrated form to cook with water on a camp burner, or in bar form.
HAVE FUN!
small camping stove
because being able to cook and boil water when the power goes out is amazing.
I have this one, which I recommend if you want to spend the extra $
sorry for huuuuuge links wtf edit: Thank you helpful mod!
Solid fuel stoves aren't anything new. The one you link there is insanely expensive. As an example, here's one for under $10.
As for other suitable camp stoves, there are plenty out there. I have a Jetboil Flash system that I've been quite happy with. It boils water extremely quickly and is nearly foolproof to use. The downside is that it's not the lightest stove out there.
I also own a MSR Pocket Rocket stove. It's less full-featured than other stoves, but it's very small and light. You also must have a pot to use with it.
Just to throw out some general outdoors stuff that he may enjoy/not already own: a headlamp if he enjoys camping or being outside at night, a Leatherman or other general purpose multi-tool, a decent set of hiking boots, a Camelbak or similar hydration backpack.
Ehh I'd be wary. You can find gear for cheap, you just have to do some searching. Looks like you've got plenty of time to do that, too. If you're not willing to commit to backpacking as a hobby just yet, don't worry about buying the $300 sleeping bag. I have a $40 one I got on Amazon and it works amazing if you run hot. We have a "guest" backpack that we got from Costco for $25 (yeah it's not the best engineered pack, but perfect for someone who only goes once every few years). Costco is also great for cheap, non-cotton clothing and socks. They should be getting all of that stuff in in a few weeks.
REI gear sales are the way to go for headlamps, pads and tents. This is a good mid-level cooking set for two, and the Pocket Rocket is a good quality, low price stove option.
Basically, for the cost to rent, you could get mostly set-up with mid-range gear you can keep. You've got the time to find the good deals, why not take advantage of it?
Also, super jealous. I've always wanted to go to Glacier N.P.
Firstly for the sleeping bag what temperatures are you looking at needing it for? also have you considered the possibility of a quilt?
How much water depends on the availability of it where you're hiking, but generally 2-4L as a start is usually good. For purification I bring a Sawyer Mini with a 2L bag and aquamira as a backup.
I prefer baby wipes as they can be used for other things but make sure you get biodegradable ones as well
My stove is a MSR Pocket Rocket but as a cheaper option [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Ultralight-Backpacking-Canister-Ignition-silvery/dp/B00ENDRORM/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1411302345&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=msr+pocket+rocket) stove works well too. You also have the option of small alcohol stoves and other liquid fueled types.
6 changes of clothespair of shorts, pair of pants, 2 t-shirts, light jacket, sweatshirt/sweater, 2 pairs of socks, 2 pairs of underwear. You should be wearing about half of this going out. Just air out the clothes you aren't wearing, even better is to wash them in a stream.toiletriesBar of soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, deodorant if you mustwarm hat and glovesnot sure what the weather will be like but I reserve these for when it may snowlots of sockslounging shoes, hiking shoesrunning shoes are good for hiking if your pack isn't heavy >30lbspillowuse your clothesfew1 bowlgoodcalorie dense snacks such as nuts, jerky, dried fruit.rain jacket$1 ponchoMy additions:
Bonus:
All in all I think you should keep your pack under 30lbs, especially if you are going to be doing some hiking.
something like this?
My friend has the Teton 4000 65L pack.
Material is most certainly a cut above the thin stuff you'd expect on a Walmart pack but not quite the same level as mainstream packs like Osprey, Gregory etc. Don't abuse it and you'll be fine.
They make a 55L, the 3400 series, as well.
Double to triple the budget of the Teton packs and you're into the Osprey Volt (60L or 75L) or the Atmos (50 or 65L).
I've been eying this guy on amazon, which states it's sufficient for 2-4 day excursions, which would be plenty for what I intend to do for now. The camping area I plan on backpacking to is mostly a swampland/basin area with plenty of opportunities for fishing and trapping.
Search for a hiking backpack with an internal frame. Better for your back. Get an insert that fits and your set. Test one at your local sporting goods store to get a feel for frames and sizes.
TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack; High-Performance Backpack for Backpacking, Hiking, Camping; Hunter Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F34ZKS/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_vToYCb72YRVYY
Week 2! Sorry, haha. I'm actually gonna bring portable urinals (which sounds gross, but apparently more people use them at festivals than you'd think) and offer them to my fellow GNR campers around me so no one feels like they need to leave. Since you're gonna be camping, here's the link if you're interested.
TravelJohn-Disposable Urinal (6 pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NV878S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fPvxDb15AQ0NA
Add one of these to the nightstand and she's golden!
https://www.amazon.com/Travel-John-66911-TravelJohn-Disposable-Urinal/dp/B000NV878S/ (not an affiliate link)
sidebar: I really do recommend the Travel John. I put them in the glove boxes of our cars and my wife gave me such grief over it. "No one will ever use that!" It's designed so that men, women, and children can use it. Holds 28 ounces of liquid and has a solidifier in it that turns the liquid to a gel and deodorizes. Can be used for vomit in a crunch. But I recommend these for vomit https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JAGITMK/ Anyhow, I put the Travel John in the car and my wife chides me. One week later, the 5th grader (three years ago) was returning from a school trip to Washington, D.C. and the students are getting off the charter bus with yellow eyes because someone had clogged the toilet. No bathrooms in the parking lot where the buses gather and my son refuses to water a tree begging for a restaurant. We barely get the car down the road and he declares, "I'm not going to make it." I grabbed the Travel John and was immediately vindicated. My wife is totally on board and even complained when I took one camping and failed to put it back in the car.
The trash bags are essential! I forgot to mention that, you are more prepared than me though I should really put some TP back in my stash. I need to add a bottle of water or two and hand sanitizer though for sure. Great tips. It's unfortunate we even need these things but it's better to be prepared. When I was pregnant I got these and I carry them with me too: https://www.amazon.com/Travel-John-66911-TravelJohn-Disposable-Urinal/dp/B000NV878S/ - I don't know if they'd hold a poop but they give me comfort in knowing if I was really really desperate and could find a secluded place I didn't want to leave a trace behind in then I might try.
> I have to divert if I need to pee. Men can just use an empty Gatorade bottle.
I admit, not as easy for a girl as for a guy, but still maybe an alternate to a diversion. TravelJohn
Equipment
We live in a golden age. You are in luck.
•Ferro Rod
• stuff sacks https://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Products-Ultimate-Sack-Three-Pack/dp/B001AZNATC
•head lamp
• silverware https://www.amazon.com/Columbia-River-Knife-Tool-X-Large/dp/B00B2HZQN6
•paracord
• first aid kit
It depends on what he already has. I could keep naming things. These are all gifts I would appreciate
There are a lot of really cool camping things! I'll be back to edit this post on my computer with some things that we like / are unique /cool
EDIT - these are things that we use that we love. These things all range in price, so hopefully you can find one or two to fit whatever budget you have.
Other general items that are useful: Climbing/heavy duty carabiners (to clip stuff to other stuff. you can even get locking ones); water filters (if you get a Lifestraw, I recommend the water bottle. The actual Lifestraw is an interesting idea, but we've found in practice it's a little awkward); hammocks with nice straps; base layers; battery-operated lights of any kind (especially ones that clip or are hands-free); a set of waterproof cards (to pass the time on a break); nice, wicking socks; hiking poles; a camping knife.
I haven't tried Cairn (the camping sub box) but they always look interesting.
I like to use dry bags for dirty, sweaty clothes. Eventually, the van is going to smell bad no matter what, but this helps cut down the stink. You can find those kind of bags in just about any store that sells camping supplies if you don't want to order online...they're pretty inexpensive.
I have a 2 small drysacks, which I can just stuff things into, which is pretty nice. and a specific case for my phone or ipod
Edit: Also, I have a raincover for my backpack. keeps the water out. and you dont have to worry about anyone unzipping your backpack in a busy place.
Bear sprays work from 30 feet away. If the bear was an arms length away from you, the spray wouldn't help much, would it?
http://www.amazon.com/SABRE-FRONTIERSMAN-Attack-Deterrent-Holster/dp/B002E6VAHK
You be fucking real.
Just buy some bear pepper spray and stop being such a girly man.
https://www.amazon.com/Frontiersman-Spray-Holster-Access-Strength/dp/B002E6VAHK
this shit does the trick too
picturing scenario of ordering this off amazon, and having it stolen off porch
Fuck, get this! This shit stops BEARS!
I carry bear spray, just in case. Honestly the biggest worry I have is wild animals.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002E6VAHK/
http://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
Who is going to buy some, and win the game of life?
http://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
There's always Amazon.
Pork crackling is also lightweight AND delicious.
http://www.baconfreak.com/yonders-canned-bacon.html
https://www.amazon.ca/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
Tactical Bacon?
Bacon Explosion?
I've had both...
Well, Tactical Bacon is supposed to be outstanding.
http://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
Tactical Bacon
I know lot of people use these or similar brands between baby and themselves when baby wearing - might be useful in the stroller if needed :)
https://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Chilly-Evaporative-Cooling/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1466217553&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=froggs+toggs
Or a stroller fan too - I'm in Alabama so I feel you on the heat!!
http://t.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=56492836&amp;gclid=CLamo6jGsM0CFdgKgQodIhYNww&amp;camp=PLAPPCG-_-PID20467096:BRUS&amp;cagpspn=plab_20467096&amp;eESource=CAPLA_DF:56492836:TRUS
My gf says the best gift she got in this heat was the "frog togs cooling towel"
https://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Chilly-Cooling-Towel/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=asc_df_B003YF7W22/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312111913661&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=18434605617787160366&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9033822&hvtargid=pla-449602261639&psc=1
Or Frozen water/electrolytes (Think enduralites)
My partner thanks you and says she loves that you are thinking of carriers!
Always have water. I'm in Texas and I ride about 5 days out of the week (around 15-20 miles a day) to commute and run errands. Morning is bearable. Lunch time sucks. Ride home from work sucks. Doesn't get bearable until like an hour after sundown but I just suck it up and ride.
I just ordered one of those cooling towels so I'm gonna give that a try once that gets here.
http://www.amazon.com/ProActive-Frogg-Togg-Chilly-Blue/dp/B003YF7W22
Get one of these! I get straight up purple, too. Mostly I just stopped caring, but when I wear this, it really helps:
http://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Togg-Chilly-Pad-Blue/dp/B003YF7W22
I had the exact same issue. My poor kiddo was a total sweatball and sooooo unhappy. Now I use one of these They get really chilly when you run them under water, it keeps baby nice and cool. I keep it in the diaper bag usually (in it's own compartment) and whenever it gets hot outside I just get it wet and tuck it next to him in the carseat.
Check these out: http://www.amazon.com/ProActive-Frogg-Togg-Chilly-Blue/dp/B003YF7W22
They stay wet and cool for pretty much forever, very refreshing to rest on your neck/head...
Great tips! As an alt to the fan with the spray, you can also get one of those towels that get cool when you wet them. There are a ton of these on Amazon — here's one brand.
I'd also download the Disneyland app which has estimated wait times and all the info on the park map in a more manageable package :)
For the mattress, hard to beat this price - Intex Inflatable Fabric Camping Mattress with Built-In Pillow, 72.5" x 26.5" x 6.75" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005BAIB/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_WLB6xbKDWT2SS
I've used them and they are quite comfortable. And only $8!
For the tent - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_aHA4xbNBG6KXX. $60
Technically only a 4 person but 9x7 is pretty roomy for just four.
For the sleeping bags - All Season Mummy Sleeping Bag [87x32in] - Comfort Temperature Range of 32-60°F. Constructed with a Ripstop Waterproof Shell, Woven Polyester Liner & High-Loft Fill. Comfortably Fits Most up to 6'6. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DFT0R00/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_MRB6xbG9GZKH7. $42
http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Sundome-4-Person-Tent-Green/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=sr_1_1?s=outdoor-recreation&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1370632892&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=tent
Really not too many options at that price.
TENTS $30-80
http://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Meramac-Camping-6-Feet/dp/B004EQEB3I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1464684044&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=alps+tent+3+person
http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000007827-Sundome-4-Person-Tent/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=sr_1_1?s=outdoor-recreation&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1464664253&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=coleman+tent
FOOD
http://www.costco.com/336-Total-Servings-of-Emergency-Food-Storage-Basics-Supply-Bucket-With-Gamma-Lid.product.100116414.html
WATER 2-5GAL with Sawyer Squeeze filter
SLEEPING BAG-
$25 Swiss 40F 3lb 6ft or Naturehike 5.5ft
a tent would make springtime more enjoyable by letting you sleep outside in the nice cool spring air.
my favorite part of spring is the smells of the new flowers and budding trees
FUCK YES to making festivals a larger part of your life. One of the best decisions I’ve ever made :) I don’t know about the best shoes for dancing, but I always wear Vans to shows and festivals and I’ve never had an issue with my feet hurting. I think they’re a great option :) As for things to take the night of or after partying I would recommend a multivitamin, tylenol and a smoothie. The best thing you can really do to help yourself out is to eat lots of fruits and veggies in the days leading up to an event (or all the time!). Also constantly drinking water. I’ve tried a lot of extra supplements and misc. vitamins but they all are kinda extra and not needed to me. Also I constantly eating Cliff bars at festivals even when I’m not hungry. I feel better usually when I really really load up on calories. Healthier ones though!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LCBRQK5/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Just bought this air mattress this year so haven’t tested it longterm, only used it for one festival so far. It stayed inflated well for the first 2 days and then we just topped it off with some more air for the remaining days and it worked great for us. Super comfy and it’s nice being higher off the ground. We put the air mattress in the tent before we inflate it, way easier. No air pump needed we use a car plug adapter and an extension cord. Its super easy to run your car for 5 minutes to inflate it. Make sure you pay attention to the number of prongs on your plug so you don’t buy the wrong adapter or extension cord too! For camping without a car nearby this method won’t work obviously but we always have the car by us.
https://www.amazon.com/Foval-Power-Inverter-Converter-Charger/dp/B01H2XD2DY/ref=sr_1_3?crid=QOQ31WLDSSM1&keywords=outlet+car+adapter&qid=1562429828&refinements=p_85%3A2470955011&rnid=2470954011&rps=1&s=gateway&sprefix=outlet+car+a%2Caps%2C149&sr=8-3
https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Sundome-4-Person-Tent-Green/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=coleman%2Btent%2B4%2Bperson&qid=1562429920&s=gateway&sr=8-3&th=1&psc=1
My boyfriend and I purchased this tent 2 years ago and its made it though a decent amount of festivals. No signs of wear or damage. I know you mentioned a black out tent. I’m assuming to help sleep once the suns up? The heat usually gets me out of the tent before the light, it gets so unbearably hot once the suns up. You said you’re not new at this though so I’m sure you already knew that! :)
For staying cool I would recommend a cooling towel. Get it wet in your cooler ice water and it’s great to keep around your neck. Also small hand fans are a GAME CHANGER for guys and girls. It’s shocking how much they help honestly. Sitting with your feet in a small pool, bucket, or cooler when you’re hanging out at the campsite is super nice too. Just fill with water and some ice cubes and it really helps cool your body down!
https://www.amazon.com/Amajiji-Chinease-Japanese-Nylon-Cloth-Festival/dp/B07FMCF4G1/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?keywords=hand+fan&qid=1562431437&s=gateway&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/Cooling-Instant-Chill-Athletes-Workout/dp/B00XKLYWFU/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=cooling+towel&qid=1562431333&s=gateway&sr=8-6
Hope this info helped you out!
If you're really just wanting a tent for easy car camping, go with a Coleman Sun Dome 4 Person from Amazon. $65 bucks for the green model. I have this exact tent and bought it for this exact reason.
Took it to burning man twice, held up great. Took it to a car camp in the Sequoias, hailed on us hard, no rain leakage at all. Road tripped in September with it--Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Mt Hood--worked great in every scenario.
Sets up quick and plenty durable. Only real issue is the weight, but that shouldn't be a problem for you. I'm pretty sure a queen blow up can fit inside.
This is the perfect tent for you, I promise. I have been using this tent for years and it has been to four festivals with me. The 4 person size is ideal for sleeping 2 people actually, and is still only $68. It is super easy to assemble, and super easy to pack up. It has a durable bottom and has survived multiple rainstorms, although I always suggest spraying tents down with a sealant as an extra layer. Seriously, I can't recommend this tent enough especially for your first purchase. Happy camping!
Thank you! Any particular pad you'd recommend for a tenth? We bought this one after the advice we got here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_2G6SybJPFQDHR
This is the tent you should get.
Coleman Sundome 4-Person Tent, Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MjiXDbFH36YWV
You can get it at any target. $60.
Anyone who went last year will tell you about the TORRENTIAL rain. This little workhorse kept me bone dry. Worth shipping home once your done.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00MPH1LEU/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?qid=1463868196&amp;sr=8-7&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&amp;keywords=water+filter
Ka-Bar Tactical Spork (Spoon Fork Knife) Tool 9909 on Amazon
If you are a fan of the tacticool ka bar style : Ka-Bar Tactical Spork (Spoon Fork Knife) Tool 9909 https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01FYJ6ICK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MvEnDbRT6Q00T
Check this out> https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Tactical-Spork-Spoon-9909/dp/B01FYJ6ICK/
Cause they are sharper than the knives we are permitted to buy.
Also they come in tactical assault style https://www.amazon.com/Ka-Bar-Tactical-Spork-Spoon-9909/dp/B01FYJ6ICK
Can't be having that!
She needs one of these
Come at me bro! I got my tactical SPORK ready to go!
&#x200B;
EDIT: I'd like to comment a bit on the absolutely killer marketing of this fine product on amazon. The description includes such bits as, "durable and long lasting making it effective and long lasting", "pretty decent knife", and "fairly in expensive". Truly a marketing genius with a fierce command of the English language put together that page.
skillhunt h03
Skilhunt H03
I’ve fetched the link for you. Edit your post.
Thanks again for doing these giveaways!!
Skilhunt h03 please
BLF LT1 Lantern
https://www.amazon.com/sofirn-Lantern-Rechargeable-Batteries-Excluded/dp/B07YS9L6R1/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&amp;keywords=blf+lt1&amp;qid=1572439934&amp;sr=8-2
I know this isn’t what you asked for, but in emergency situations, this is a much better solution unless you live in the desert: Sawyer Products SP103 Mini Water Filtration System, Single, Orange https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MPH1LEU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_W8qKzbF0AP2E3
You can get filters that will do thousands of gallons for just $20. No excuse to not have one.
Tactical spork
This is my Shield 9mm PC. I spent this morning wrapping it with Talon grips, color filling the slide with white nail polish, and replacing the back plate with a custom one off of Amazon for a little Murica flair. Holding it up is my Ka-Bar Tactical Spork because my Opinel was too far away.
>spoon (more valuable than you think)
Gotcha covered
Click here devil, the first price is $6.93 from amazon
I've got a one of these for a light: https://www.amazon.com/Skilhunt-Flashlight-Waterproof-Headlight-FloodLight/dp/B01HGHIAD8/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=skilhunt&amp;qid=1566489272&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-3
It's tiny, waterproof, magnetic bottom, uses 18650's and headlamp strap comes in handy.
Thanks for doing this again mate! I’d choose the Skilhunt H03 please.
I always wanted a good angle light, and this fits the price perfectly when you include shipping.
Giveaway (neeearly)Thursday! Thanks Para!
I'm in for the Skilhunt H03!
I'll try for a Skilhunt H03
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HGHIAD8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_M4R3CbZR3YQEN
Thanks again!
I'm still chasing the Skillhunt H03 in NW. Thanks again!
Skilhunt h03 please.
I've been wanting a right angle lately...
H03! Thank you for this chance!
https://www.amazon.com/Skilhunt-Flashlight-Waterproof-Headlight-FloodLight/dp/B01HGHIAD8/
Skilhunt h03
Thank you!
skilhunt H03
Thanks for doing this!!!
&#x200B;
https://www.amazon.com/Skilhunt-Flashlight-Waterproof-Headlight-FloodLight/dp/B01HGHIAD8/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmrnull_1?crid=3N1M91HJ8ELMV&keywords=skilhunt+h03&qid=1556125932&s=gateway&sprefix=skilhu&sr=8-1-fkmrnull
Thank you for this giveaway and all the support on this subreddit and the forums.
I’d like the Skilhunt H03 if I’m selected, thanks.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HGHIAD8
thanks for doing another great giveaway! https://www.amazon.com/Skilhunt-Flashlight-Waterproof-Headlight-FloodLight/dp/B01HGHIAD8/
Thanks for these giveaways!
Skilhunt H03
https://www.amazon.com/Skilhunt-Flashlight-Waterproof-Headlight-FloodLight/dp/B01HGHIAD8/
Thanks Para! Good luck all!
Whooooo! Thank you for this.
&#x200B;
&#x200B;
Skilhunt H03 Neutral White
Skillhunt H03
https://www.amazon.com/Skilhunt-Flashlight-Waterproof-Headlight-FloodLight/dp/B01HGHIAD8/
Skilhunt h03 thanks again for doing these
www.amazon.com/dp/B01LX8MJU0
With the Nichias. This is a great giveaway idea!
https://www.amazon.com/Astrolux-Flashlight-Flashlights-Travelling-Batteries/dp/B01LX8MJU0/ref=sr_1_7_m?s=hardware&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506116000&amp;sr=1-7&amp;refinements=p_72%3A1248909011%2Cp_36%3A1253529011
Not familiar with this brand, but this one looks interesting.
astrolux s41
https://www.amazon.com/Astrolux-Flashlight-Flashlights-Travelling-Batteries/dp/B01LX8MJU0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506093124&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=Astrolux+S41
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LX8MJU0
Yes please and thank you. https://www.amazon.com/Astrolux-Flashlight-Flashlights-Travelling-Batteries/dp/B01LX8MJU0/
TIL the Astrolux S41 is under $40, so that's what I'm looking at.
https://www.amazon.com/Astrolux-Flashlight-Flashlights-Travelling-Batteries/dp/B01LX8MJU0/
S41 Nichia, Thanks!
https://www.amazon.com/Astrolux-Flashlight-Flashlights-Travelling-Batteries/dp/B01LX8MJU0/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;ref_=ox_sc_saved_image_4&amp;smid=A13BRSR0TJMNLN
Too late?
Astrolux S41, obviously with the Nichia.
This is awesome, thank you for doing this!
https://www.amazon.com/Astrolux-Flashlight-Flashlights-Travelling-Batteries/dp/B01LX8MJU0/
Astrolux S41! In nichia flavor! Thank you!
Astrolux S41 4x Nichia 219B/ XP-G2 A6 1600LM Mini LED Flashlight, Battery Powered Flashlight, Key Chain Flashlights for Camping Hiking Travelling (Batteries Not Included) (Yellow) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LX8MJU0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_aVuXzbC96CB5M
Heyoooo. Thx.
Astrolux S41 4x Nichia 219B/ XP-G2 A6 1600LM Mini LED Flashlight, Battery Powered Flashlight, Key Chain Flashlights for Camping Hiking Travelling (Batteries Not Included) (yellow1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LX8MJU0
I'm in for an S41 Nichia https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LX8MJU0
Mad respect for doing this and thanks for the shoutout :)
I'm gonna have to go with the S41 too.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01LX8MJU0/
Thanks!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LX8MJU0/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A13BRSR0TJMNLN&amp;psc=1
Thanks for the sweet giveaway. Good luck everyone!!
S41! Thanks!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01LX8MJU0/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_4?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=A13BRSR0TJMNLN
Astrolux S41, obviously with the Nichia.
Zip zop bibbity bop!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01LX8MJU0/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_4?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=A13BRSR0TJMNLN
I like this one!
Thanks for the giveaway!
I wanted the Sofrin BLF LT1 lantern but that seems to be out of stock right now otherwise i'd like the Lumintop GT mini. Thanks!
The BLF LT1:
https://www.amazon.com/sofirn-Rechargeable-Batteries-Basement-Excluded/dp/B07YS9L6R1/
The absolute best lantern on the market.
Order one from Aliexpress or Amazon. Might be a discount in the next few days for Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Aliexpress had them for sale for a few dollars over the GB price on Nov 11.
Been using a budget coleman lantern for years and I'd love to upgrade to one of these.
Let there be light!
Seems to be going quicker and quicker! Thanks! Going for an LT1.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YS9L6R1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CVXUDbQFPM4FQ
entry!
70k already, awesome! Very generous of you, thank you.
Sofirn BLF LT1 Lantern
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YS9L6R1/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_VGQUDbMEAYRVH
BTW this lantern isn’t yet listed on your website. If I win and it isn’t applicable for the giveaway I can select something else. :)
In brightest day, in darkest night
LT1 please!
May as well try my luck for an LT1. And I didn't forget to enter this time.
https://www.amazon.com/sofirn-Lantern-Rechargeable-Batteries-Excluded/dp/B07YS9L6R1/
https://www.amazon.com/sofirn-Lantern-Rechargeable-Batteries-Excluded/dp/B07YS9L6R1
Thanks!
LT1 for me.
I'm starting to wonder when the growth will slow down. I guess we'll see. It's nice to see so many people share this
obsessioninterest.BLF Lantern. Totally fine with waiting if it's not available yet.
https://www.amazon.com/sofirn-Lantern-Rechargeable-Batteries-Excluded/dp/B07YS9L6R1/
I also choose the BLF LT1.
Thank you!
You also want a propane bottle-top stove and a coffee can for boiling water for coffee/tea/ramen. http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000004124-PefectFlow-1-Burner-Stove/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1405985344&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=propane+camping+burners
It'll fit in your saddlebag easy, and will make mornings a LOT easier.
Get a small propane cooker. They're cheap and heat water quickly, also good for cooking... whatever. Just be sure to crack a window or use it outside. Something like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000004124-PefectFlow-1-Burner-Stove/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1398189942&amp;sr=8-7&amp;keywords=propane
You could use the campfire, or you can use one of these too: http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000004124-PefectFlow-1-Burner-Stove/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1394047763&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=coleman+single+burner
As for best quicklights, most people will tend to agree that 3 Kings are the best Ql's
If I am at home I use the electric range (Coco coals of course) but when We go camping I take alone a Coleman single burner such as...(http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000004124-PefectFlow-1-Burner-Stove/dp/B0009PUR5E)
Works great with some chicken wire around a square wood frame. I like it because I don't have to mind the coal constantly. Without the frame the coal can fall down by the burner and get it all dirty. Plus when your done, just remove the frame and you have a cooking stove.
Here's the link for the propane bottle on Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Coleman-Bottle-Top-Propane-Stove/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=asc_df_B0009PUR5E/?tag=googlemobshop-20&amp;linkCode=df0&amp;hvadid=292995138886&amp;hvpos=1o2&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvrand=8925329916291428209&amp;hvpone=&amp;hvptwo=&amp;hvqmt=&amp;hvdev=m&amp;hvdvcmdl=&amp;hvlocint=&amp;hvlocphy=9001395&amp;hvtargid=pla-382956361640&amp;psc=1#
So... as a soylent consumer (I replace 1-2 meals per day with it), I would like to warn you about the awesome fiber and poop that it has. Not a big issue if you are camping at a place with a toilet... not so idea during a rain storm in a parking lot.
Another option is to carry some canned goods given that weight isn't as much of an issue. Canned soups and the like have a similar price to calorie and for most people will taste a lot better. If you want to splurge, a tub of mountain house freeze dried food would be lighter and taste pretty good. And on the cheap side, rice and beans is simple and filling.
For stove, depending on which type of canisters you want to deal with, there are some cheap stove options such as 1 and 2
Propane torch*
And it is something like this. I think if you only cared about the sear, a searzall propone torch attachment would be better, but I do a lot of my general cast iron cooking outside now, to avoid the smoke in the house as I don't have a fume hood style kitchen.
It would be similar to a gas style stove top, though I get more flames out of it I think.
Coleman Bottle Top Propane Stove https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009PUR5E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_EK4xzbJ426JWH
I have a Byer Moskito Traveller hammock, the mosquito net is a bit fragile and it's not as feature-packed as a Hennessy, but I lived in it for a month on a road trip and it was pretty nice. I also have a Marmot Limelight 3 tent that's pretty nice, though the rain fly condensates like crazy. A lot of my friends have REI tents they swear by.
Unless you're doing alpine stuff or big walls or other weight-conscious climbing, one of the single-burner Coleman stoves that screws on top of a propane tank is probably all you need. I have a Snowpeak Gigapower stove, and it's nice to have something so small for those one or two times I've really needed it, but most of the time the expensive fuel is a waste.
If you want to go small and light, I like my Big Agnes Insulated Air Core ground pad because it packs down smaller than a Nalgene, though it's a bit of a pain to inflate, so if you're moving around a lot it could be more work than you want to do. Even on a long, mobile climbing trip I'll usually only inflate it once a week or so, so I don't mind. A few friends have Therm-A-Rest and REI self-inflating ground pads in the 1.75" range that they're quite happy with.
I'm a fan of the Mountain Hardwear Pinole sleeping bag, it's pretty cheap, packs fairly small for a synthetic bag, and is rather toasty. I don't usually feel like dealing with down, so I can't speak to many of those bags.
This toatser has a setting for frozen bagels and that makes it my favorite. I love love keeping my bagels in the freezer because they last for so much longer. I buy a dozen at Panera, freeze them, and then have fresh tasting bagels every morning for weeks.
I love this "Now Showing" wall plaque for movie buffs. And I also love the home theatre sign!
I guess if I won this, and since rule 3 states to choose something, I would really, really want this $20 Coleman propane burner for camping.
Can you think of any reason why this would not work with creating starters? I'm trying to think of a way to safely support a 5L flask on their too. It looks like it would balance well enough
Edit: Actually, I may go this route instead...looks like it would balance better. Or this
Maybe this
You could get something like this. Easy to store and you can get the tanks for pretty cheap. Just make sure you get a strong mesh that won't melt from the heat to rest the coals on.
Jesus, that's rough. There's no way you can have a pocket sized portable camp stove like this:
https://www.amazon.com/MSR-11792-PocketRocket-Stove/dp/B000A8C5QE
Fuel canisters are $5-7 depending where you are, and there's barely an open flame.
Hi guys, I'm looking to purchase a new back packing stove...I'm debating between an MSR pocket rocket: https://www.amazon.com/MSR-11792-PocketRocket-Stove/dp/B000A8C5QE/ref=sr_1_2?s=outdoor-recreation&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1468872725&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=backpacking+stove
A etek city ultra light:https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Ultralight-Portable-Backpacking-Ignition/dp/B00B4FY8YO/ref=sr_1_1?s=outdoor-recreation&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1468872725&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=backpacking+stove
And this other Etekcity one: https://www.amazon.com/Etekcity-Portable-Collapsible-Windproof-Backpacking/dp/B00Q6QT99A/ref=dp_ob_title_sports
Thoughts? Any stoves you would suggest? I like gas stoves, but if you can convince me to buy one that runs off of liquid fuel, I'm all for it!
I'll remember that for next time. I've already packed it all away, but I might drag it out and take some pics. My foot is pretty banged up so it'll be a minute. But Ill give you a short list :)
Pack: Osprey Exos 58
Sleeping Bag: Teton Sports Tracker
Tent: ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1
Tarp: Ultimate Survival Hex tarp
Mess kit: Mess kit and Mug
Water Filtration: Sawyer Mini
Tools/Defense: Note: Normally I would only take one knife, but I wasn't sure which I would prefer as they're two quite different blades. Ka-Bar Becker BK2, Condor Bushlore, and Bear Spray
Stove: MSR PocketRocket
First Aid: I had the Adventure Medical Kits Day Tripper, and then added to that with Celox and an Israeli Bandage
Trekking Poles: Cascade Mountain Tech CF with Cork Grips
In addition I had a few little things in a small kit; Ferro rod, duct tape, trail blazes, chemical water purifiers in case my Sawyer failed, bug spray, a small thing of sunscreen (which I didn't end up needing as it was overcast), deodorant, TP, etc.
How do people feel about the jetboil compared to say the MSR PocketRocket or snow peak?
I would reccomend the GSI Soloist pot over the Jet boil and with that a MSR Pocket Rocket, but thats just my personal preference.
This is the liner that I use but I would look more into other liners, just to see if theres anything you would prefer more. I only used the liner like a dozen times at most, so its not a necessity.
Hey!
Welcome to prepping and congratulations on taking the first steps!
I will say, a lot of food goes bad pretty quick. Remember to rotate that stuff.
Alternatively, you can get mountain house or another brand of long term storage food and a little camping stove, and then you dont have to worry about it going bad, and if you don't need it for like 10 years it will still be here.
The stoves and their fuel cans are popular for camping, but work great for cooking when the powers out too, and in a situation where its pretty cold, they can warm up a small room pretty well.
Here are some links
https://www.amazon.com/Mountain-House-Just-Case-Hour/dp/B001OPLW20
https://www.amazon.com/MSR-11774-Dragonfly-Stove/dp/B000BBGQ7O/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1500006032&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=msr+stove
https://www.amazon.com/MSR-11792-PocketRocket-Stove/dp/B000A8C5QE/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1500006032&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=msr+stove
Most of that stuff can also be bought locally at REI or Bass Pro Shop or the like.
Good job on the water.
I picked up a Pocket Rocket last year and its pretty solid if you dont mind carrying around fuel. I have a Dualist cook set that this folds up and fits inside of to save some space. The fuel canisters for it are small enough where I'm not worried about it taking up much room in my pack or adding to the weight I carry.
> Just get a small camp stove like this.
Looking at your link, now I'm a bit confused. Isn't this also a compressed gas canister just the same as the ones I posted? What's the difference? How would this be any safer than the former?
I use the MSR Pocket Rocket. I've had it for several years and it can take one hell of a beating. If the temperature gets around freezing you'll have to sleep with the fuel can to keep it warm, though.
I personally use Mountain House- just tastes the best to me. An easy alternative is to walk down the ethnic food isle at your grocery store and look for boil-and-pour simple meals (rice/pasta dishes particularly). Instant mashed potatoes are good too. The tradeoff is for the non-backpacking meals you usually have to use a dish to make the food, which is something you'll have to clean up and hang with the rest of your kitchen supplies.
I had some female friends who bought these:
http://www.amazon.com/Teton-Sports-Internal-Backpack-Hunter/dp/B000F34ZKS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1395182081&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=backpacking
No problems, the pack worked great from both of them. We went on a 3 night trip. I don't think the boob issue should keep you away from this pack either. Both were fine.
I use this
G-raphy Camera Insert Bag with Sleeve Camera Case (Orange)
and put in in the bottom most part of whichever hiking bag I'm using. For my larger pack (65L) (https://www.amazon.com/Teton-Sports-Internal-High-Performance-Backpacking/dp/B000F34ZKS/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3QLFXUFBOG8OX&keywords=teton+backpack+65l&qid=1550902518&s=gateway&sprefix=65l+teto%2Caps%2C151&sr=8-2).
I put it in the sleeping bag compartment like arcana73. Then use the outside loops of the sleeping compartment usually used for tents for the tripod. Want to keep that weight low for stability and to maximize comfort. That insert bag holds my canon 6d body, my 70-300mm, my 50mm pancake, and my 14mm rokinon wide lens. I use a seperate bag I got for my iOptron skytracker to hold filters, remote shutter, additional sds, and so on. For my tent and sleeping bag I simply just put those in the main compartment, opting usually for a light hammock set-up when the weather's good.
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Overall I think a larger backpacking pack will do wonders for the duality you want, leaving room for food and supplies you'll need for those few days. Just be sure to get a nice insert to organize your gear and make sure you get a bag that allows it to be readily accessible like with a sleeping bag compartment, it will save you alot of headache of not having to take out all your stuff to get to your camera!
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PS When looking into his I'd recommend also getting some external mounting system for your camera onto your packso you can minimize stopping time for fool around in the bag to put the camera in and out. Something like the Peak Design's clip (https://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChcSEwjig_Pfm9HgAhUVjcgKHef7BOMYABAIGgJxdQ&ohost=www.google.com&cid=CAESEeD2tnd3YimtpuoDUrupzsjx&sig=AOD64_1VNtF2qgoCRHRekkWs4nNs0xkT6Q&ctype=5&q=&ved=0ahUKEwj21Ozfm9HgAhWtm-AKHQoIC58Q9aACCDc&adurl=https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1086507-REG/peak_design_cp_2_capture_pro_camera_clip.html/?ap=y&gclid=Cj0KCQiA2L7jBRCBARIsAPeAsaMvphVGvlxGsKqAxoQjry9wyVVOGvLmxwoq7sOaB7o-6ePuao0kMUUaAmGkEALw_wcB&lsft=BI%3A514&smp=Y) helps a lot with this subtle annoyance.
I have an Teton outdoors scout 3400. It's a 54L bag that is really comfortable and has some good features and is pretty affordable the msrp is about 140, but you can find it on amazo ng for about 80. It a good quality bag at a pretty good price and it comes I a couple different colors. It also has a great warranty that protects against defects for the entire lifetime of the bag.
TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F34ZKS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_qNgyCbX0KY5RM
https://www.amazon.com/TETON-SPORTS-121-High-Performance-Backpacking/dp/B000F34ZKS/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?adgrpid=57608577553&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhLSEicWt4gIVFbbACh1hUg4hEAAYASAAEgLdifD_BwE&amp;hvadid=274684609815&amp;hvdev=m&amp;hvlocphy=9052573&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvpos=1t1&amp;hvqmt=b&amp;hvrand=16934333135453329411&amp;hvtargid=aud-648278611385%3Akwd-299276976955&amp;hydadcr=17110_9496591&amp;keywords=teton+hiking+backpack&amp;qid=1558473204&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;psc=1
I have a Teton and I have no complaints of the bag. Seems to receive good ratings and very affordable.
You really need to go and try some packs out or better yet Buy a few and load it with what you think you will be carrying do not have the store people stuff bags in there it's not the same as having gear in there they fell much more different. I ended up with a Osprey Black and a Green Pack. I also have a Kelty Lakota 65 for longer hikes.
Osprey is the lighter of the Brands Gregory and Kelty are more heavier and more durable, but if you take care of the packs even the ultra light ones will last you. For $150 you won't be getting the Higher end packs they cost more then that, Or you can try a REI Garage sale and get lucky.
Trips like the one's you posted are great for light packs like the Osprey 65 you can pack a bunch in that pack and still feel like nothing is on your back. The only thing I don't like about Osprey is the side zippers I am a larger man and they don't work too well with my form lol.
This TETON Sports is a great pack it's not the lightest but for the money and the ENTIRE pack is nylon so it's tough as nails, I used it for a few year before upgrading to a lighter packs. I do not regret this at all.
here is a new version
https://www.amazon.com/Sports-Adventurer-Ultralight-Backpacking-Mountaineering/dp/B016ZXEDCQ/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_sims?ie=UTF8
https://www.amazon.com/Sports-Internal-ALUMINUM-Backpack-Backpacking/dp/B000F34ZKS/ref=sr_1_5?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1500753362&amp;sr=1-5&amp;keywords=hiking%2Bbackpack&amp;th=1
48L is pretty small if you are going to be doing any sort of camping etc. I'd recommend at least looking at a 60-65. Anyways, that's not what you are asking.
As far as cheap but sturdy, I bought both the Teton Fox for myself and the Teton Sports Explorer for my girlfriend and found them to be both fairly reliable. This was for an 8 week backpacking trip where I stayed in hostels through Europe (my gf was there for 5 of the weeks), so it didn't go through the rigor of camping, through I'd be willing to say that they would be entirely adequate.
For you, I would say that maybe the Scout or the Summit could be good matches.
Another advantage of going this cheap is that even if the backpack ends up breaking (again, not likely on the first trip), you'll be in a better position to understand what you do and don't like about it.
Oh and don't forget a raincover if they aren't built in.
TL;DR: Teton makes good cheap backpacks but I don't have experience with the smaller sizes. Also think about a slightly larger backpack.
Edit: Forgot to mention that I bought mine without trying it on first and it was close to the perfect size (could have used slightly longer straps over the shoulder, I'm 6'1"), but I have some decent experience with backpacks. For the most part, if you read enough of the reviews you'll find people of certain sizes fitting/not fitting.
Edit dos: Even more thoughts. It's free to try on backpacks in stores, and worth your time just to get accustomed to what the various sizes actually feel like and what sort of features you like. Once you try a few you'll get the hang of it.
Link to a good backpack on Amazon, please?
How about this one?
My son is about 4'8" and 68 pounds (super-skinny).
"Best" is really subjective.
For those on a budget or need to build multiple bags, here's some great, cheap packs. Suitable for most backpacking (maybe not hardcore extended adventuring/mountaineering). Great value for the money.
Small
Medium
More sizes available. Search Teton Backpacks on amazon.
The Teton line has served me very well. I also use it as my general suitcase, since it passes all the carry-on requirements. The rain-fly is a very nice feature, and the adjustable lumbar support and waist belt are really nice for tall guys like us (though I'm only 6'2").
Of course, I'm only going on 2+ years of (relatively) heavy use, some camping, some backpacking through Europe, and multiple trips to visit family back in Ohio.
I would give it a 6/10 rating for a pack.. but for the price i would give it 8/10.. I was using this one
http://www.amazon.com/Teton-Sports-Internal-Backpack-Hunter/dp/B000F34ZKS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1367986527&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=teton
Its hard to keep the weight overall even and the metal rods in the frame didn't really feel long enough.. On top of that my back got really hot wearing it.. but I hiked uphill and downhill with it for about 4 miles through snow, dirt, and ice during a 3 day winter trip in Angeles National Forrest in California.. I wouldn't recommend it for anything longer than a weekend.. just not built well enough.. but still works. As you can see I have a love hate relationship.. but thats probably because it was my first pack ever.
Overall its great for the price.. but at the same time you get what you pay for..
I don't have any experience with LL Bean gear, but I don't see anything wrong with the those items.
When I started I intentionally bought cheap gear knowing it wasn't going to be as light or as durable as a backpacker would ideally want. I figured I might as well try some basics out before I committed to spending money on high quality gear.
The pack you list looks pretty small - only 2400-ish cubic inches. That could be a tight fit. I started out with this guy. Its an ok but certainly not "good" pack. Its not super durable or super comfortable, but it was inexpensive and it got me through my first 3 trips until I decided I liked backpacking. After that third trip I went to an REI and got help trying on lots of different packs before laying down a good chunk of cash on my Gregory.
I still use this tent. Although a couple pounds heavier than the one you list its worked out well for me and its less than half the price.
You'll also need some other gear to do overnights. REI has a good list here. Highlights include hydration (something to carry water and a water filter / pump / tablets / whatever), food storage, headlamp / lighting, etc.
Do you live anywhere near an REI? Along with having great staff to chat with about what might want to buy they occasionally have "garage sales" where they have returned / used items at crazy discounts.
Since I'm new at this (I have however been camping in wilderness multiple times for 3-5 days, just never backpacking) I've been reading a ton of guides. I don't have a huge budget since this is something I'm just getting into, but looking around at different reviews this seems to be the best stuff I can get within my price range. If anyone cares to take a look and possibly give any suggestions I would appreciate it.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F34ZKS?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00
This one, I have to leave by saturday so I ordered it and hope it'll hold up for atleast a few months.
Could someone help me compare this pack and this one. I'm looking for an entry pack that I can take on a 2-3 (at most) trip.
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I can't recommend these enough for those early morning urges that wake you up and you can't face leaving your tent and staggering around in the dark trying to find the toilets...
Travel John Unisex Disposable Urinal Pack of 6 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000NV878S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_fv.gDbCN31TGE
They may seem grim, but they are silent, absorb all smell, and instantly turn your wee into a gel so you could turn the pouch upside down with no leakage. Chuck them in your rubbish bag when done.
Each Glasto a new friend in the group thinks it's a weird and disgusting concept, but inevitably come begging for a pouch or two when they get desperate!
They work great for male and females. Haven't had the need to test it's vomit absorbing capabilities yet thankfully!
You need these.
I live and drive in the Midwest. I put a telescoping shovel in my trunk at the first snow. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002SIR91A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1415298971&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=SY200_QL40
I always keep these within reach:
http://www.amazon.com/Travel-John-66911-TravelJohn-Disposable-Urinal/dp/B000NV878S
Bathrooms are not always available and puke just happens.
You can get a product that is a mix between the two.
http://www.amazon.com/Travel-John-66911-TravelJohn-Disposable-Urinal/dp/B000NV878S/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1427645453&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=portable+urinals
Is that what you are talking about?
http://www.amazon.com/Travel-John-66911-TravelJohn-Disposable-Urinal/dp/B000NV878S
People in the wilderness. Rock climbers, rafters, kayakers, canyoneers, etc. Enough people that it's a a full section of the NRS webpage including seats and bags specifically for shitting in 5 gallon buckets. For rafter it is also common to use a Rocket Box. Bags for peeing in also exist but you don't have to use those most places.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000NV878S/ref=pd_aw_sims_1?pi=SS115&amp;simLd=1
I actually think this would be better for you, since it provides more information on how it works and has reviews you can draw from.
But in regards to your back pain, that may or may not be connected to your urinary problem so ask your doctor if there might be any correlation. Since one poster said in the other post that it may be due to a pinched nerve, they may possibly be connected. I think finding a neurologist is a good idea along with using a product like the one described above so you don't have to worry about your conditon.
You may want to stock up... travel john
here's the product on amazon, there's a video icon along the left hand side where the photos are.
basically its a small bag (starts small, then you unroll it) with a rim that you pee into, and magically your pee turns into gel and doesn't smell. works multiple times until it's full. no joke, depending on where your campsite is compared to the porta potties, these could be useful.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NV878S/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=A2I2ECZCUY3ZZV
I use these
They are NOT waterproof and are cheap for a reason, but I've been happy with them as a way to organize and save space.
replace the shovel with this trowel to save weight:
http://www.rei.com/product/799009/gsi-outdoors-cathole-sanitation-trowel
carrying the hatchet is a bit much too I think. and then you are looking for a hatchet? That's a lot of hardware to carry. I'd replace it with one of these to cover some concerns, but I usually find ways around cutting wood:
http://www.amazon.com/ProForce-Commando-Wire-Ideal-Survival/dp/B0018VCJTA
A nice headlamp will probably run you about $35-40, but they are worth it.
I think I paid 9.99 at walmart for these, important for sealing odors to keep away critters:
http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Products-3-Pack-Ultimate-Sack/dp/B001AZNATC
Not sure if you are looking for a backpack or a dry sack, but these are what I have used canoeing. I don't remember the brand, just some no name thing I bought relatively cheap. We tipped a few times so I know they work. Also REI has some too.
Day One I'll have about 35 lbs (15.45 kg) of weight. This is my first time so there are probably several items in there I'll never take with me again, but I'd like to try 'em out once; I also have a shit sleeping bag that desperately needs upgraded. If you want specs, just ask and I'll happily share my spreadsheet!
Edit: The List
The Gear
The Food
If you're on the road you need shit that is all utility. I've put together a list that I think fits that bill. No Kershaw Cryo fashion knives here. I love a good looking blade but if you pull that out and lay it next to you far from being threatening someone will probably just steal it.
You need to buy a hobo knife to be a proper hobo.
For a self defense blade I would look at the Cold Steel GI Tanto. To be honest it is best used as a deterrent, it is menacing enough that it should serve that purpose. It's tough steel too so you can use it to pry and chop too. Prepping firewood with it by batoning is going to be easy.
A coarse diamond sharpening key chain is also nice to have.
Here is a waterproof jacket for $11 from Eddie Bauer.
Some inexpensive dry stuff sacks would be good too.
A stainless water bottle that you can also use for cooking is good too.
*A list of basic phrases for each language you expect to encounter. Even if people are likely to know some English in the areas you are going to, just being able to say 'please' and 'thank you' in the local language will be much appreciated! Also, if stuck remember that younger people are more likely to know English than older people.
I use a dry sack! I've never had anything leak out, and it's thin/soft enough to put into my backpack.
Outdoor Products 3-Pack Ultimate Dry Sack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AZNATC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_yQRK6sE8dRvFg
Get a waterproof stuff sack. A 3 pack like this 3 pack on amazon and use the smaller two for clothes. I loved them for my kayak trip several years ago (and I paid about $40 for a 3 pack in 2009)
You can use a regular roll-top dry bag inside any camera bag you'd like. It's how I pack it, because I go camping a lot with mine.
Here's an example of what I mean [not endorsing this one at all, just picked randomly]
I do this when traveling:
But a dry bag (Outdoor Products Ultimate Dry Sack, Three-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AZNATC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Y3KYCb391HQZC)
Rinse off your rash guard/compression underwear, throw it in the bag, fill with water, add detergent, lock it up. Agitate it really well for a couple minutes, pour everything out into the sink, and rinse out the soap. Hang dry. Clean clothes. Takes 5ish minutes.
Dry bags! I will never attend another festival without them. You will see me and my dry bags weekend one. ;)
I use dry sacks. (Amazon link) Their intended purpose is to keep things dry when you go out kayaking or whatever, but they also hold in smell really well.
Don't carry bear spray specifically but I do carry OC spray (essentially the same stuff but for people, AKA less strength).
I use Sabre Red for work. Their bear spray line is 2% major capsaicinoids (what makes it hot) while the stuff I carry is 1.33%. Don't get drawn into the claims of scoville units as a rating of how effective it will be.
I've been sprayed with stuff that was less than 1% (somewhere around .75% if I recall) and it felt like my face was melting for a good long while so I could only imagine what 2% feels like.
https://www.amazon.com/Frontiersman-Bear-Spray-Hip-Holster/dp/B002E6VAHK?ie=UTF8&amp;*Version*=1&amp;*entries*=0
Also comes with a holster for your belt but with your hip belt for your pack it might not be feasible to carry it there. You could probably find a way to rig it to a shoulder strap on your pack fairly easily though.
Also, most bear sprays are a "fogger" type spray. They will shoot with a good bit of force to propel it some distance but after that initial burst out of the canister be ready for it to get blown around by wind quite easily, and if the wind is blowing towards you, you could be in for some pain.
https://www.amazon.com/Frontiersman-Spray-Holster-Access-Strength/dp/B002E6VAHK
Thoughts on this one? Seems similar just a better price https://www.amazon.com/Frontiersman-Spray-Holster-Access-Strength/dp/B002E6VAHK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1543592517&sr=8-4&keywords=bear+spray
I have a can of Sabre but I've never actually had to "use" it. Some friends of mine who are hiking guides up in Alaska carry it for what thats worth.
Can you get Bear Spray in the UK?
Bear Spray example
Bear spray or Pepper spray. A dose of this may well have disabled the creep until the police could wrap him up and totally remove the issue, and him.
Bear spray has range, but it's weaker than the stuff you can get for people. Most bear spray is around 2% OC, while the human stuff is up to 17% OC
We don't have to be as nice to people as we are to animals.
Buy Bear Spray for piece of mind. It's basically just pepper spray that you can use from 30 feet away.
I'm guessing it's tactical bacon
https://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
I live in Ireland and these are common but it’s these that I was shocked about https://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
Tactical Bacon
Could order this http://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
A drone should be able to deliver it today considering this "blizzard" isn't a blizzard.
Tactical fucking bacon, of course.
Black, clearly.Ever had tactical bacon though?
I recommend getting some Tac-Bac. Amazon is a little over priced but if you have any surplus stores or gun shops near you they probably have it. It's all precooked, just open the can and go to town. If you want it warm then microwave it.
Yes, I've stocked up a few of these, why? ... for the Zombie Apocalypse of course!
Tactical Bacon.
He just has to find an Amazon distribution center. It may also be sold in some camping supply stores.
You know that might make a good episode. The search for bacon.
how about a bacon air freshener
Tactical bacon in case of zombie appocalypse
keep his feet warm n crispy?
Or make it so all he hears is the sweet, sweet sizzle
Because bacon is meat candy.
I'm more interested in tactical bacon. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003RC5FQ2?vs=1
Video linked by /u/whitewallsuprise:
Title|Channel|Published|Duration|Likes|Total Views
:----------:|:----------:|:----------:|:----------:|:----------:|:----------:
Tactical Bacon Taste Test|Taras Kul|2016-09-05|0:02:33|16,501+ (96%)|674,122
> Tactical Bacon - http://amzn.to/2kriRTs DISCLAIMER: In...
---
^Info ^| ^/u/whitewallsuprise ^can ^delete ^| ^v1.1.3b
https://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Chilly-Evaporative-Cooling/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1465847000&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=frogg+togg - One of those on the back of your neck goes a longgggg way to keeping you cool.
I haven't tried one myself yet, but you could try an evaporative cooling towel like this one.
Consider getting one of these Frogg Togg Chilly Pads. I used one last summer riding through the arizona desert, and they make ALL the difference in the world, I promise. Also, the Frogg Togg brand towels are vastly superior to the knock-off brands. My dad and brother each had some no-name brand cooling towels, and theirs were always bone dry while mine was still moist and cool.
I'm from the south, and we're already hitting the upper 90s :( Fortunately my power bill is included in my monthly rent, so I can crank the AC as low as I want. I would recommend one of these towels. Wrap it around your neck, and it will cool your whole body down. They're awesome.
To add to this, I use a Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad like this one and it stays cool a lot longer. Can also be used as a shammy of sorts to dry dishes, dry off a wet rain fly, etc. Just make sure to rinse it after use and let dry completely to prevent mold.
I have a Misty Mate and a Frogg Toggs Towel. I can't handle Bonnaroo heat so I arm myself to the teeth with ways to cool down.
Buy a Frogg Togg Chilly Pad. They are amazing.. http://www.amazon.com/ProActive-Frogg-Togg-Chilly-Blue/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1367524275&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=frogg+togg
I've been reading up on purchasing a cooling towel to help make falling asleep easier. Anyone have any experience with either of these? http://www.amazon.com/Chill-Its-6602-Cooling-Towel-Blue/dp/B001B5I57I/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&amp;colid=1URYWNUI347QZ&amp;coliid=IG89AE3J0FC3E & http://www.amazon.com/ProActive-Frogg-Togg-Chilly-Blue/dp/B003YF7W22/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&amp;colid=1URYWNUI347QZ&amp;coliid=I3MTVBT26U1R98&amp;psc=1
Has anyone had any experience with this tent? Price looks reasonable but Ive never gone camping before so dont really know what to look for.
https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Powerhouse-Dual-Fuel-Camping-2-Burner/dp/B00006I56J/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1MJLK6B5SM31I&keywords=coleman+powerhouse+stove&qid=1556851905&s=gateway&sprefix=coleman+powerhouse%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1
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I like this stove, if you are car camping, as you can use gasoline and don't need to carry around propane tanks.
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As others said, leverage the REI beginner packs such as:
https://www.rei.com/product/127720/rei-co-op-backpacking-bundle
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OR
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https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Sundome-4-Person-Tent-Green/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=sr_1_3?crid=28ZQTQZ7X04R3&keywords=coleman%2Bsundome%2B4%2Bperson&qid=1556852004&s=gateway&sprefix=coleman%2Bsun%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-3&th=1&psc=1
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Is a fantastic starter tent.
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As others said, totes are your friend. Remember to bring TP and sanitizer. Water storage is useful too https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-Desert-Patrol-6-Gal-Water-Jug/16537207
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Do some research on fire starting to save yourself some headaches. Try to save up some newspaper or packing paper to make your lives easier.
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Good luck and have fun. Sounds like an amazing trip!
I recommend this one: http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000007827-Sundome-4-Person-Tent/dp/B004J2GUOU/
Amazon Deal of the Day, normally $65 on sale for $40 today only, tons of good reviews. I'm getting one.
Trust me when I say you don't want to cheep out on your tent, I learned it the hard way haha.
But if you are looking for a new tent I recently bought this one https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Sundome-4-Person-Tent-Green/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1550065392&amp;sr=1-3&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=ogman-20&amp;linkId=76e6709343313199c8feb3459705a571 and I'm pretty happy with it.
I took it for a spin last week and I can say that it's very roomy and it stayed dry and warm even though it was raining all weekend.
Here is the desktop version of your link
$72
https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000007827-Sundome-4-Person-Tent/dp/B004J2GUOU/ref=sr_1_1?s=outdoor-recreation&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506452413&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=4+person+tent
Thanks so much for your advice! I will check out REI. One of my friends mentioned Coleman and I found the Coleman Sundome 4 on amazon for fairly cheap. Would something like this Coleman be enough? Or should I just bite the bullet and get an REI half dome 4 that grantizzle suggested?
If you're not trying to sleep too many people
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004J2GUOU/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1480421828&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&amp;keywords=4+person+tent
Is a good tent for the price. Make sure you have a cooler and some solar chargers too. Gum, gold bond, baby wipes, comfortable shoes are all a must.
Depending on who you're gonna be sleeping with and whether or not you feel like cuddling with them, a hard and fast rule is whatever the tent says it sleeps on the package, half that number is the ideal.
My Coleman tent made for 4 slept 2 comfortably. Had room for an air mattress and our duffles. Caught it crazy cheap on Amazon by using CamelCamelCamel
thanks for the reply!
I've been looking at the Sawyer PointOne Squeeze Though i've been seeing some having problems with their bags leaking for this model, but doesnt seem to be a major issue. It is though, a lot cheaper than the GravityWorks .. but i must agree, the look and ease of the gravityworks makes me want to spend the extra cash to get it.
Thank you. Its funny but I didn't really look at the size on the non personal ones because I assumed they'd be much bigger. I'm assuming that you're referring to this product, right?
Check here:
https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP131-PointOne-Squeeze/dp/B005EHPVQW
Mini was also on sale at 14 dollars. But now it is 19.99 for orange model. If you wait and follow the product it would again fall to 14 bucks in Cyber Monday Week.
Per Amazon it has a 1 million gallon guarantee warranty. I don't see myself using 1 million gallons through it during MY lifetime... maybe I'm not hardcore enough :(
Heck even through Sawyer's website themselves, list it as having a 1 million gallon guarantee warranty.
As far as practicing for it, just go hiking somewhere local as much as possible.
As far as what to bring on the actual half dome hike, there are definitely some mandatory things:
Some optional things are:
Things to keep in mind regarding hiking anywhere:
An experienced hiker can look at the distance and elevation change, as well as the starting elevation of a hike, and immediately have a rough idea of how hard the hike will be for THEM. To build this skill, pay attention to the stats on the hikes you are doing. Also pay attention to how the weather affects your ability to hike. Extreme heat and cold both present challenges and require proper preparations.
Whenever traveling to a new place, take the time to read up on the regulations for that place, specifically regarding best Leave No Trace (LNT) practices for the area and about staying safe around the wildlife for that area- in general, never approach wildlife, but there are also things you can do to minimize having a negative encounter with an animal that you should be aware of- these best practices will often be different depending on where you are and what wildlife lives in that area.
Have you used something like this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005EHPVQW/ref=oh_details_o00_s02_i04?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1 I bought it but haven't used it yet. Aren't they very good with a great price?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005EHPVQW
This product comes up a lot, and almost every time someone says the sawer squeeze is better. I have the mini sawer, and it works great, screws into water bottles and 2-liters, can backflush to keep it clean, has a super small pore size, is lightweight. I've never used a life straw though, so maybe I'm missing something.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005EHPVQW/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1480094674&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=SY200_QL40&amp;keywords=sawyer+squeeze&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=51SJ5lM%2BhyL&amp;ref=plSrch
Ok thanks! Do you mean this one? It comes with the option of personal system, all in one system, or hydration kit.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005EHPVQW/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1449757899&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=SY200_QL40&amp;keywords=sawyer+squeeze&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=51SJ5lM+hyL&amp;ref=plSrch&amp;th=0
I have one of these. It's very nice for the reasons you mention. I also have an Imusa 12cm and a Toaks 750ml pot. All are useful in different ways and for different applications. One is tall and skinny (Toaks 750), one is short and wide (Toaks 700), one is tall and wide (Imusa). My main criteria is being able to fit 2 cups of water, but right now am really liking the Imusa for its wideness (to better accommodate my Fancee Feest alcohol stove) and its tallness because I was able to make a nice aluminum flashing windscreen that I can fit inside the pot when I'm not using it.
One other thing I have discovered is the lid to the 700ml fits my lidless Imusa pot perfectly.
I think it is really good already but if you wanted to lose some oz for $$$:
I have the Klymit Insulated Static V Recon and have been happy with it. I've used it down to about 0c (32f ?).
It's a little less expensive if you don't mind the blaze orange. But overall fairly competitive compared to brands like ThermaRest.
https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Insulated-Static-Sleeping-Orange/dp/B00ANRW7DI
Check out this comparison of sleeping pads with R values and other stats, it might help you find the right combo for your needs if the Klymit doesn't interest you.
http://sectionhiker.com/sleeping-pad-r-values/
I can't sleep without a sleeping pad and there have been many many times where I was happy to have one. I have the Klymit V. It's not super expensive, it rolls up to about the size of a nalgine and is SUPER comfortable, as well as insulated.
We actually went in late March, but Utah had a much colder winter/early spring last year. It got to the upper thirties overnight, and all three hammockers used sleeping bags and inflatable pads for warmth. I personally used a 0-degree Teton Leef bag and insulated Klymit Static V, and slept in thermals, fleece, down vest, and a beanie. I like to sleep warm, haha.
I'm confident enough about the trees that if I had a permit for #5 right now, going just off what I remember, I'd bring a hammock and maybe a bivy sack just in case. I'm like 90% sure it'd be fine. The campsites are beaten down enough that going to ground wouldn't be super difficult anyway. Note, though, that the trees in #4 are pretty low and bendy, so don't be surprised if you wake up on the ground anyway.
BTW I found a blog of someone that camped at #5 but the only picture that says it was taken from the campsite was this one.
edit: you HAVE to go see Kolob Arch; it's amazing.
The Klymit Insulated Static V might be a good option, especially for colder temperatures. I just bought one for an upcoming trip and have tried it out but haven't slept on it yet, but it seems to get a lot of good reviews.
Mirage is a freestanding, isn't it? That's one thing I missed about the Banshee (and Naturehike I linked isn't freestanding either).
I would say tent should be the last thing you upgrade (unless you intend on backpacking), and you're right - start with the pad. Some of the modern ones are insanely comfortable, I'm a picky sleeper and I love S2S one. I also toured for couple weeks with the Thermarest XTherm and it was not bad, but also not nearly as comfortable as S2S.
If you're on a budget consider Klymit pads - here's one that weight 700g, packs very small, and has R value of 4.4 (meaning you can sleep on the snow and it will still insulate you enough). It costs around 50USD
https://www.amazon.ca/KLYMIT-Insulated-Static-Camping-Orange/dp/B00ANRW7DI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1497921003&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=klymit+sleeping+pad
I'm not sure where you live, but buying gear in Scandinavia will cost a pretty penny. You probably need an ~15F/-10C bag to be comfy (as the weather looks to low around freezing). Else look for a COMFORT RATING around freezing (32F/0C). While a $300+ bag will probably be "better" (by better I mostly mean lighter) you should be able to find something reasonable for quite a bit less assuming you don't live in Scandinavia. Both of the bags you were looking at are from reputable companies, I can't read them (google translate isn't working for the site) but if they are within the ratings above and are acceptable in size/weight they will be fine. Make sure to get a good mat if you don't have one. I recommend klymit. Hope this helps!
Mine was the insulated Klymit Static V and my girlfriend's was the TNH Outdoors pad that was on sale on Amazon. Here are some links
https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Insulated-Static-Sleeping-Pad/dp/B00ANRW7DI?th=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LEUYJN8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
The klymit insulated static v is not much more expensive (52.40 with prime) and I love mine.
It's called a tent. Get a good set of mattresses like this klymit and you're good to go.
This is going to sound like overkill but on a recent car camping trip I used a coleman cot with my klymit insulated static v and I slept better than on some beds. I am in my late 30s and a side sleeper and the klymit pad is great even without the cot.
I'll be updating my setup with the bigger sawyer filter and adapter to increase the flow rate. The mini works fine but takes probably a minute to get 2 cups into my pot. Here's what I'll be buying:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B1OSU4W
https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Inline-Adapters-Screw-Filters/dp/B0118BBKNA/ref=pd_sim_468_5?ie=UTF8&amp;dpID=31Bex5mURoL&amp;dpSrc=sims&amp;preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&amp;refRID=R60R76W4Q5BNH9GSF9JG
Sawyer Squeeze is only 20.69 right now.
LifeStraws are shit.
They should have gotten Sawyer filters. They come with a bag you can fill with water then you screw the filter into it and drink it. Much better.
https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP129-Filtration-Squeezable/dp/B00B1OSU4W
I have a good eye :)
Apologies for the wall of text, but I tend to ramble on topics that I'm passionate about, hopefully some of the ramble below will help.
Which Inflatable pad do you have, I'm guessing you're a side or stomach sleeper like myself?
I have the Klymit kings static V inflatable pad, I like that it packs really small and it's very light weight, but it's not entirely comfortable for side sleeping or stomach sleeping. I did once camp with my tent on sand and this was comfortable, but on regular dirt it's not.
I then tried the REI camp bed 3.5 self inflating pad. It's a self inflating pad which is a hybrid between a foam and an inflatable. At 3.5" thick, it's incredibly comfortable for side & stomach sleeping, but the drawback is weight (~5lbs) and it does not pack down small, I have to strap it to the outside of my pack.
If you are a similar sleeper like myself, you may want to check out hammock camping. I picked up an ENO double nest for just relaxing around camp or in the back yard at home and found it to be the most comfortable naps I've taken outdoors. While I can't sleep on my stomach, side sleeping is very comfortable and I actually fall asleep on my back which is unheard of. I'm not saying to run out and buy a full hammock camping set up, but maybe at the next REI garage sale, see if there is a really cheap ENO double nest and straps and give it a try in the back yard, you may want to convert afterwards :)
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Headlamps? As in more than one? + a lantern? If I may suggest an alternative / weight savings..... This year I switched over to using a Olight S1 Mini baton because I always hike with a hat and the double clip allows it to slide right on the brim. It's also incredibly light weight and has several light levels. The back cap is also magnetic, so when tent camping, it sticks to the tent poles, for hammock camping I just hang it on the ridge line by the clip. The lowest level is 5 lumens I believe, which is dim but more than enough to see your foot placement on the trail at night. It also has the strobe setting which can come in handy if you find yourself in trouble to disorient an individual or an animal. (your post above mentions the fear of being a solo hiking woman, so this would be a good tool in conjunction with a decent knife). While it doesn't have a red filter, there are tons of youtube videos on how to make your own red filter cap for night vision savings.
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A Camelbak is always a must have for me, I get dehydrated quickly, so I carry the 3L version. I also carry a smart water bottle on the exterior side pocket of my atmos. Reason being is they are significantly lighter than a nalgene or other plastic bottles on the market and they're very very cheap to replace. Also, you can use this bottle for water enhancers such as Mio, crystal light, or a hydration powder, without risking an issue to your Camalbak. I've found having Mio on a trip is a great mental pick me up when it's hot and I'm tired.
I have not used a life straw, but for any overnight or distance trip, a must have for me is my Sawyer filter and 1 squeeze bag. I went with the Sawyer because it will allow me to refill the giant 3L Camelbak with this adapter without digging out the Camelbak, (see the 4th picture down). The squeeze bag is for dirty water only, so I do not have to worry about dirty water contamination with other items. Lastly, with this adapter I don't have to bring the syringe to clean it, this adapter's threads will fit the smart water bottle, or a coke bottle, and allow me to flush out the filter. While I've yet to have to flush it on a trip, it's a good thing to have for after the trip and cleaning things.
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I used to have a few must have items, but recently I've been weeding them out to save weight. Most of them are comfort items and I am the individual who packs with the mindset of "what if this happens.....", so I tend to pack things I rarely use. I really love having a warm meal, so my Jetboil is usually a staple. Since it is a gas burning stove, I could (in a survival situation) use it to boil water or start a fire to keep warm. However, foods can be re-hydrated with cold water, it might take longer and not be as delicious, but it saves the weight of the jetboil and I have the sawyer for clean water anyway, and a small bic lighter is a fraction of the weight, so I've done without it on the last few trips.
I've moved on to the mentality of packing items that are multi-purpose, try to cut out any redundancies to save weight. While I am no where near being considered ultralight, I've started incorporating their ideals into my packing to help out. You may want to check out their subreddit.
My buddy Scott is the one I always go to for questions related to backpacking/ hiking, he's been doing it far longer than I have, and seems to always be ahead on the new gear or techniques. He started a blog recently on his findings and tips/suggestions, it may be worth a look: Hack your pack
Hopefully this ramble helps!
So, I think you are a bit crazy on the water treatment. I know a bunch of people who don't treat their water at all - lighter pack weight, less things to keep track of, no hassle with getting water. Besides, drinking untreated water is how people lived for all of human history, minus the past hundred years. Millions of people still drink untreated water regularly, and while this is a significant cause of death in developing nations, in most developed nations (and developing nations if you have money) you will not die from a water borne illnesses as long as you reach definitive medical treatment withing a reasonable time frame.
That said, I do still treat my water. Sawyer filters are all the rage now. 1 million gallons guaranteed, and for $35. No laborious pumping, no scrubbing a ceramic filter when it clogs, no replacing filter cartridges. It also fits on the most universal bottle threading, so you don't even need to use the bag it comes with - you can screw it on a smart water bottle, a pepsi bottle, or even put it inline with the tube on a platypus bladder. Oh, and you can force water through any way you want: squeezing, sucking, or gravity. Only downside: you can't let it freeze, which also applies to ceramic filters.
Sorry if this sounds like an ad for Sawyer. I just like them a lot.
I can tell you that almost every thru-hiker (hiker who does >1,000 miles continuously in ~3-5 months) on the Appalachian Trail uses a Sawyer Squeeze filter ($30) for their water purification needs and they use it daily to purify water from back country sources like streams and creeks and it works reliably for thousands of gallons with some periodic backflushing (equipment provided). Most thru-hikers carry 2L of water or less (for weight) and just frequently refill at water sources they cross. During my section-hike, I carried a Sawyer Mini and had some issues with the gaskets separating from the unit, causing leaks of the dirty water but only onto the ground - you will know if dirty water has leaked to the clean water side. The hikers I encountered told me that this was less of an issue with the Sawyer Squeeze. Highly suggested. Scroll down on the linked page to read about the technology, filtration efficiency and limitations.
Still, two is one and one is none - so I also carried Aquamira liquid purification drops.
You will be happy i found a bargain of $33!
http://amzn.com/B00B1OSU4W
So you seem pretty knowledgeable, and I trust your opinion. I’ve narrowed it down to 6 I’m choosing between, with some definitely more likely than others. Three are folders , and three are fixed . While I no longer trust MTech for folders, their blade kept decently well, and there’s not a lot of room for screws loosening on fixed blades. I also know Elk Ridge was never mentioned in the tread, but I’ve owned one fixed and one folder from them and they were both great knives, I have faith in the brand
http://ecosknives.com/zen3/ These are hand made. Mine have come sharp. In fact I just got 2 new ones for my birthday.
http://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Companion-Outdoor-Stainless-4-1-Inch/dp/B00BTJKB00/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1412718972&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=mora These are great for the money.
http://www.anzaknives.com/ These are made from files
Do you have a picture of what you like?
try r/knives
I just picked up one of these little beauties. I wear it on my belt at work (butcher) when I need a quick blade and don't want to go into my pockets. May suit your needs, super comfortable to use and clean.
Edit: Although i'd bet your able to sharpen a knife or know someone who will, this little bastard was by far the sharpest knife out of the box I have ever bought.
If you're looking for a folding option, Fox and Emerson both make good knives, but they are expensive.
Cold Steel makes a relatively affordable fixed-blade option, but it's BIG. Fox and Emerson also make a fixed-blade options, but they are very expensive.
For a general use, fixed-blade option, I'd recommend something like the Mora Companion in stainless. It's boring next to any karambit or even your BG knife, but it will do the job of opening boxes and most routine cutting chores. For a folder, you simply cannot go wrong with a Victorinox.
I hope I didn't seem too condescending (that's where I talk down to you) in my first comment. Please feel free to ignore any smart-ass comments I may make and welcome to the club!
Edit: Karambits are simply not my style. I'm sure there are some other folks on /r/knifeclub that can offer more options than I on that subject.
My boyfriend bought me a morakniv companion a few weeks back and I've never had a more multitasking blade. Though designed as an outdoorsman knife, theyre razor sharp but also light weight and the rubber handle makes them very comfortable to hold. Plus, they come in great plastic sheaths that make them convenient for camping trips or picnics. 1000% would recommend. This is the one I have http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BTJKB00?cache=686004116d7b72b4413c26fe29e01dc1&amp;pi=SX200_QL40&amp;qid=1407024182&amp;sr=8-1#ref=mp_s_a_1_1
A hand warmer attached to the lens barrel should help with keeping any condensation on the glass at bay.
http://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers-Pair-Value/dp/B00D7H9LIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1395087929&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=hand+warmers
That's... Not at all what I had in mind. I was looking at these.
And it's not that my room is cold(cuz if it is, I can just wear a hoodie or turn on my fireplace), it's just that my hand gets cold.
What about adding several of those smack-to-heat pad thingies (like this or this)? Although I know the insulation isn't perfect, I was just thinking that maybe with a little tweaking it would be enough to work.
These hand warmers.
I know the pros use hand warmers during tournaments. Though, that's probably not the most cost efficient way to keep your hands warm playing every day throughout the winter lol
Naproxen sodium, weed, masturbation. Also heat water bottles/heated pads/ect. Oh, LPT: if you live in a cold place, you can probably get these and put em near your uterus area (I stuffed em down the front of my leggings lmao) for days where you need relief fast and you're at work or out and can't do the aforementioned remedies. I was a bit desperate one day, and these brought me sweet, sweet relief.
I have a few different sizes of this product. Based on the fact that they're air activated, I'm guessing this this is the type of product that won't work?
Edit: clarity
I use hand warmers. I have bad circulation so my hands, mainly fingers get cold quickly.
http://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers-Pair-Value/dp/B00D7H9LIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1422663167&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=hand+warmer
Gloves/mittens plus hand warmers. You can buy them at any sporting goods store or on amazon I'm sure. They last a long time. They also make ones for feet and toes. Here's a link!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00D7H9LIA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1421242514&amp;sr=1-1
Keep your hands warm
The Spirit Of Detroit
https://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP103-Filtration-System/dp/B00MPH1LEU
Civ here, gonna get an IR reflective flag patch like the one you have (I'm guessing). I thought you only get the reverse flag for the shoulder?
Also
Water, check
TQ, check
ammo, check,
pack, check.
and then depending on where you live, you may want some climbing equpment, like a descender or ascender and some rope.
do you have streams? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MPH1LEU/
Cheap Backpack Suggestions?
Looking to get a lighter pack, but not looking to spend a lot at the moment, as I will probably get a better pack later once I know my needs better.. I have a two night backpacking trip in about a week in Red River Gorge. I'll be using my hammock. I have found these four:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LPJUNYW/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_4?smid=A14Q688O8PFMTG&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DZK65W8/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_5?smid=A38N1X0G3NLPB&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C7V8Y38/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_6?smid=A14Q688O8PFMTG&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F34ZKS/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_7?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
Thoughts? Better suggestions? Prefer Amazon due to quick shipping.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F34ZKS
But according to that, even if he had a portable urinal and used it in his car he'd be equally guilty. Sometimes laws are stupid.
Yeah, it is like someone should invent an inexpensive, durable waterproof bag that floats in water and can be tied down.
This is obviously not a personal attack, I get persnickety about this stuff because I spent a large chunk of my childhood camping, hiking and canoing out in the pines. Nothing takes you out of the "I am alone with nature" feeling quicker than an empty case of beers or floating plastic chip bags. If they were dumped on purpose or through negligence makes no difference to me.
It only takes a tiny bit of care and preparation to avoid mucking up a natural treasure for others (like erogenous_war_zone) who wish to enjoy its beauty.
you should keep a can of this under your desk for the next assult: http://www.amazon.com/Frontiersman-Bear-Attack-Deterrent-Holster/dp/B002E6VAHK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1341810206&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=bear+mace
He needs some tactical bacon
http://www.amazon.com/CMMG-Tactical-Cooked-Bacon-9-Ounce/dp/B003RC5FQ2
Take your own bear spray and fucking spray them back you fucking pussies. Here, you can buy it on Amazon.
Jesus Christ ... how many times do you stupid fuckers have to get your necks stomped before you start stomping back?
Why the fuck is Linda Katehi still walking around the UC campus not in fear of being bear sprayed by you guys?
Bill Ayers bombed shit. That's how he got his power. Used it to install a President.
If they don't fear you, you're nothing.