(Part 3) Best sports & outdoor recreation according to redditors
We found 40,250 Reddit comments discussing the best sports & outdoor recreation. We ranked the 19,124 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the products ranked 41-60. 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.
This is easy, the answer is bear-mace. 1-day shipping from amazon. http://smile.amazon.com/SABRE-FRONTIERSMAN-Attack-Deterrent-Holster/dp/B002E6VAHK
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.
Looks like this one.
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak - 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump - 10.25ft
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A7EXF4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_SlGyzbKQPQZEZ
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1380651864&sr=8-1&keywords=bicycle+touring+pump
About a foot long, transforms into a floor pump. Easy to fill 100psi and beyond. Has saved my bad-lucky-flatted ass many times. Best there is.
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
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.
I've been using a Topeak "Road Morph" and it absolutely rules. It's got a little flip out foot thing, pressure gauge and can handle high pressures.
I even convinced Topeak to mail me some replacement parts so I can rebuild the thing on the road if I need.
a watch and a tub of protein powder, not a bad deal since I still use the watch to this day!
Hey Hermitage, Old Hickory here.
They are inflatable. $70 with paddle. My friends liked them (I have the red kayak). I haven't ridden in them personally, but so far I've only heard good reviews.
I've seen them for sale at Academy in Madison, or on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Challenger-1-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum-Output/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=sr_1_4?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1499631726&sr=1-4&keywords=inflatable+kayak
Tactical Bacon
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.
First thought: seems a lot like the Topeak Explorer series of bike racks. The QuickLock system works great; I have a bag that uses it. Hopefully this succeeds, so Topeak releases more QuickLock-compatible stuff and also brings costs down.
Want to be a cool Coperator like this guy?
Custom AR-10, semiautomatic .308
Gear
_____
MSG TC2000 MICH ballistic Helmet - $499.95
[Police Tactical Vest plate carrier] Unknown type.
MARPAT Digital Woodland Camo BDU- $35.99
[Tactical Research Minimalist Transitoin Boots TR111, TR115](http://uspatriottactical.com/tactical-research-minimalist-transition-
boots-tr111-tr115/) - $129.99
This is my guess.
Station Grip Gloves - $27.99
G-Shock variant - $41.25
[Comm's = unknown]
Rifle setup
_
Mega Arms -AMBI Billet Upper/Lower Set- Maten .308 - $623
Badger Ordnance Tactical Charging Handle Latch LR-308 - $17.29
[Charging handle, unknown]
[Bolt Carrier Group, Unknown] SR25 style bolt
[JP Enterprises - AR-Style .308 Adjustable Trigger system](http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/triggers-parts/triggers/ar-15-ar-
style-308-adjustable-trigger-system-prod7585.aspx) $113.99 This is a guess since he has JP FF tube, triggers look the same. I prefer the ALG defense trigger.
[Pistol grip, unknown]
My guess, BCM Pistol Grip Mod 3 Black $18.00
Magpul PMAG 10 LR/SR GEn M3, 7.62x51 Magazine - $18.95
[Standard A2 Buttstock](http://www.rockriverarms.com/index.cfm?
fuseaction=category.display&category_id=296) - $70.00
That thing is fugly, better cover it up with this cheek pad.
Blackhawk HawkTek Adjustable Tactical Cheek Pad - $27.77
This is also a guess, on the cheek pad.
JP- Free Float Modular Handguard, Extra Long - $229.95
[Noveske 7.62 barrel- 18''](https://www.rainierarms.com/?
page=shop/detail&product_id=1840) - $549.00
/u/please_excuse_me
Surfire 3-Prong Flash Hider - 7.62 mm /.308 Caliber Socom Flash Hider - $129.00
[M1907 Millitary Leather Rifle Sling - circa 1942](http://carnival.saysuncle.com/images/M1907%20Sling%20Assembled%20on
%20Rifle,%20.30%20M1.jpg) - used $19.99
Guess the Magpul MS4 single point slings are on backorder
/u/SaywhatIsBigW identified this one
Inforce WML-HSP w/ offset mount - 109$
[Trijicon RMR, unknown MOA, 45°offset]
(https://www.trijicon.com/na_en/products/product2.php?id=RMR&mid=Dual-Illuminated) Pick one all are 577$+
(My guess it would be 9.0 MOA, green dot)
[Schmidt & Bender 5-25x56 PMII LT H59 CM CCW MTC Scope]
(http://www.laruetactical.com/scope-combo-schmidt-bender-5-25x56-pmii-lt-h59-cm-ccw-mtc-and-lt104-34-qd-scope-mount) - $4,289.00
It's either that, or
Police & Marksman II 5-25x56 CCW MTC - $3,479.00
Either way it's high dollar glass.
JP Enterprises - 35 mm rings
[More AR15 - onepiece mounts]
/u/GTHappy
(http://www.maxicon.com/guns/optics/one_piece/ar15_onepiece_mounts.htm#jp)
213.99$
Bipod - $40.99
They all look the same, can't tell which company.
Mobile Sniping Package - Mini-Rifle Rest, Manfrotto Tripod, spiked feet - $389.97
Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong, this is just at a glance.
Hey there! I ride that leg very frequently - it is R38 / South Dakota Ave. Yes, it is dedicated shoulder riding, but the shoulder is widened more than a usual highway's would be. I would recommend it over gravel for one major reason: drivers expect bikers to be there. During a good summer day you'll encounter 5-10 bikers in the 10-mile stretch; all regular drivers in the area will be aware that bikes are on the shoulder.
Must-have #1: get a good helmet-mounted mirror (I use this one) and continuously assess the situation area you. Be especially vigilant about people passing other cars. IMO having you, a car, and another car all in a line together is a great way to die. If I see a car swing out to pass another car near me, I usually give a very clear "stop" hand signal to indicate I want them to wait until they are clear of me. Some oblige, some don't.
Must have #2: set up a safety rule and follow it. Mine is that I watch for an approaching car and if at any point their tire touches the solid white line into the shoulder, I hard brake and remove myself from the road. Thankfully, that's only happened once, and in that particular case the driver did start moving towards the center line as he approached, though I had already begun stopping.
Must have #3: get a very bright flashing rear light and use it during the day while on the highway. I have to admit to you that mine isn't bright enough, but reading this made me realize I need to get one purchased before the season starts back up, so I think I'm going to give this guy a try.
If you do the things above I think you'll find the ride up very enjoyable. Good luck and stay safe!
Topeak JoeBlow Sport II is the most common floor pump I see used in bike shops around here. I've had one in use for about ten years and never had problem. Highly recommended.
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 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!
Heeeeeey glasses wearers! Last week I raved about silicone temple grips to help keep spectacles from shimmying down the nose and cutting off air supply. This week I'm going to continue on that theme with a couple of anti-fog reviews.
First I tried two home remedies to keep my lenses from fogging up while I run. The first is good ol' saliva. I horked a glob on my lenses, rubbed it around with my finger, gagged a couple of times, and begrudgingly put my glasses on. As soon as my spit dried, my glasses were left with streaks and splotches that were almost worse than the fog that happened before I reached the end of the block.
The second home remedy I tried was dish detergent. I coated a thin layer of dawn on my glasses and lightly buffed it with my tee shirt before setting off on my run. It must have been a self-fulfilling prophecy situation. I was terrified of my sweaty eyelashes rubbing against my lenses and picking up bits of soap to sting my eyes. And that's exactly what happened. Minimal fog, though!
I ordered a couple of products on Amazon to try as well. The first was a generic cleaning wipe that's apparently so generic and worthless, Amazon doesn't remember me ordering them. I've got the box to my left, and yet searching for it on Amazon and checking my order history yields nothing. As far as anti-fog properties, it yielded nothing, too. It did make my glasses pleasantly clean, though.
Up next we have Cat Crap. I was having flashbacks to the dish detergent day when I tried this stuff and my eyes could not stop watering. Or maybe I was sobbing. I don't really recall. What I DO recall is my entire run that day, on the lense I put the Cat Crap on, was so incredibly clear, I could see the reflection of my tears in my lenses if I angled the daylight just right. I ended up looping back to my car to coat a thin layer of Cat Crap on my other lense and buffed it with my tee shirt.
The last product I tried was Jaws Quick Spit. After cleaning my glasses thoroughly (that Cat Crap worked for a couple of days 'cause I'm gross and don't clean my glasses unless they're visibly soiled), I spritzed a bit of Spit on one lense, buffed it clean with my tee shirt. Are you seeing a pattern here with the buffing? It works considerably better with all products if you use a cotton tee over a dri-fit tech shirt. My lense only fogged up in the tiniest streak where I must have missed a spot. By the end of the day, they were right back to fogging when I opened the dishwasher too soon.
The Cat Crap ended up being my favourite for a couple of reasons.
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.
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.
https://www.amazon.com/Intex-Explorer-2-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum/dp/B00A7EXF4C/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=intex+explorer+k2+kayak&qid=1563481144&s=gateway&sr=8-3
It's super cheap! And you're welcome. I hope you have fun :)
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
I ride a road bike and use the Topeak Road Morph G. It is compatible with presta and schrader valves and has a built-in psi gauge. It's a bit heavy, but I love it!
Dont skimp on vital tools for your trip or it may get cut short.
I've owned two of these pumps in the last 16 years. They are bombproof, inexpensive (for the quality) and have been the go to while on the trail, even with friends who own additional pumps. They also fit both valve types.
Highly recommended:
https://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1527808752&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=topeak+bike+pumps&psc=1
> I'm sore in places that I didn't know you could be sore
Sore gooch, eh? Been there. When I first got into cycling, I didn't have a decent pair of biker shorts and didn't comprehend sitting on the bike for 2-3 hours straight plus the associated friction. Words of advice (in addition to a decent pair of bike shorts): butt cream.
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
Is this your first bike?
You should really check out the beginner advice thread and the $200-600 thread in addition to this one. There's a lot of helpful advice in there including SIZING. KNOWING YOUR SIZE IS SUPER IMPORTANT SO KNOW THAT FIRST.
Also, if you're in this price bracket and you don't already have the essential bike accessories:
Note there are other options for all of these that could allow you to save money/space/whatever, but you won't go wrong with what I linked. I'd really suggest having these even if it means you go down a price bracket on the actual bike, they'll all come in handy.
New Bikes
Used Bikes
Another great thing about this price bracket is the used market. I daresay it is easy to find outstanding value bikes used in this price range if you know what you're doing. I helped a friend source this for $1100 and we were being choosey! Again, if you need help post in the questions thread or just PM me because I like helping people with this stuff.
Mount a pump to the frame under the water bottle cage.
I like the Topeak Road Morph
Get a Saddle Bag and fill it with
Optional but handy
Bike Multi Tool
2 CO2 cartridges
CO2 Tire filler
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.
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.
https://battlemug.com/
I mean we have tactical bacon...
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????????
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.
Yep, get a G Shock, one of their "basic models" is only $40!!!
https://www.amazon.com/G-shock-DW9052-1V-Black-Resin-Sport/dp/B000GAYQLI?th=1
(non affiliate link)
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
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.
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.
It's. Inflatable kayak! Here is a link to it. It's great. Can fill it up in about 5-7 minutes with the included Manuel pump. Explorer K2
For the price you honestly can't beat it. We love it.
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&ie=UTF8&qid=1494229667&sr=1-1&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&ie=UTF8&qid=1494229515&sr=1-1&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
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 :)
Seiko SKX007K
Really tough watch, which is good for a gym setting, not too flashy (because if you're thinking too much about how your watch looks at the gym, you're not working out properly), rubber strap is better than nylon or leather because of sweat. Plus, it's something that can easily be worn outside of the gym as well, just a great watch overall.
Having said this, I really urge you to look at a digital like this G-Shock. Provides a lot of functions that might be useful in the gym that you won't get with a watch like the easy reader or the Seiko I showed, they're tough as nails (I've had one for about 10 years now and is still in great condition), and they look right in a gym.
All goggles no matter how good they are lose their anti fog coating sooner or later. I simply started to use this and the problem went away completely: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hj8KDbF7AD5PM
I am the brother. I bought one from amazon. Intex Challenger K1 Kayak, 1-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_arbjDb5A3BAH0
The price is always around $90.00. Don’t be fooled by the scam sale. I love this thing so much. It is inflatable and fits into the bag in comes in. The bag is a big duffel bag. I kayak to work and I am able to keep it in my locker.
I absolutely love the freedoms this gives me. Without a car or a garage it is not feasible to keep a solid one. I keep it stored under my stairs in my condo. I have been out with it three times this week. Actually I really think it’s been three days in a row.
Like another poster said, don’t think you’ll win races, it’s pretty slow and I paddle up stream to work. It’s tough but I love a challenge. It gets me out and I’m able to switch things up and not go biking every day. I have spelt hours reclined in this thing reading and I love bragging to my colleagues that, ”I kayaked into work today.”
I have wanted a kayak for a long time but couldn’t handle the space so I never got one until I thought about getting one that could blow up. I searched on amazon and found this one. The reviews are really good. I was going to wait until this season to buy it but a freak sale came on late last summer. I don’t know why but it was listed for $26.00!!! How could I have resisted. Sometimes I see it at around $80.00ish but you never know when things are going to go on sale.
Make sure to check out the other options on amazon. Just type in blow up kayak.
Let me know if you want to go kayaking together someone! 👍
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.
-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.
If you want something to fill the tire quickly, go with CO2 canisters, you can't get any quicker than that. If you want something a little more failsafe, I have the Topeka Road Morph G. It's a little bulkier than most, but I've found it very reliable, and can fill high pressure road tires rather quickly. There's another version for mountain bikes which doesn't work as well on high pressure but works to fill up the large volume quickly.
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1375590423&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=road+morph+g
This. Tops out at 160 psi. I have no trouble getting my tires up to 120psi.
Any more information ? Size, use, needs, digital, analog, battery?
Timex Weekender's are quite popular around here. Customizable, you can usually get them at target, moderately tough but be gentle, clean analog design, single function, not to big.
You can get G-Shocks in that range. Indestructible, big, endless possibilities, some can get expensive, lots of functions, typically digital, can be found at lots of stores.
Here you go mate:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000GAYQLI/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_3bEMybY8DT9BG
Kershaw CQC-2K, $18.96 shipped. https://www.amazon.com/Kershaw-6024BLK-Emerson-Designed-CQC-2K/dp/B00I0RVQO4/
Thorfire TG06, $15.99 https://www.amazon.com/ThorFire-TG06-Flashlight-Tactical-Included/dp/B00UCY79ZS/
HUSKK Minimalist Slim Wallet, $18.83 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D9PDFE0/
And since we've got the money left over, a Casio G-Shock DWQ9052 at $45.39. https://www.amazon.com/G-shock-DW9052-1V-Black-Resin-Sport/dp/B000GAYQLI
It all comes out to $99.17. I could probably replace the knife with a Skeletool if I went with a cheaper watch, but eh.
I've used Chamois Butt'r and DZ Nuts and liked them both, but the Chamois Butt'r was more cost effective (I purcahsed the DZ Nuts on clearance, so it was cost effective that one time), so that's what I've stuck with since it does the job. I'm sure others will comment on what brand they use as well, perhaps there is an even more cost effective option out there.
Trim if you must, but not too short or you'll itch.
For soreness, check your bike fit and seat height/position.
For longer rides, use a butt balm such as this one.
Here's the link! The reviews are phenomenal and the price is the cheapest they've ever been.
In my experience, prices are very similar unless you're not buying directly from Amazon. There's always the odd crazy sellers that want to make extreme profits on rare items...
Look at the thousands of products that are prime eligible and compare prices. Of course, if you only look at the rare product, you may find outlier prices.
I just bought this https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00177J4JS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1, it's about $2 cheaper on the Canadian side.
I also bought this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007PJ4PN2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1, it's $4.50 more expensive on the Canadian sides.
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B011DDC2K8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1: same price.
Compare prices on bestbuy.com and bestbuy.ca, and you'll find very similar prices.
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.
Sawyer Squeeze water filter is what I use for backpacking.
Filters to .1 micron for about $40 and is supposed to last about 100,000 gallons if you keep it cleaned.
edit: whenever I talk about these filters I like to let people know that if you are backpacking in below freezing temps you have to keep your filter in a pocket during the day and in the sleeping bag at night.
The residual water left inside can freeze cracking the ceramic filter media and while water will still flow through it it may not be safe to drink.
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.
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
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.
Soo I know they're not as widely promoted, but I was dying for a kayak a couple of summers ago, so I did some research and bit a desperate bullet on an inflatable one. It was quite possibly the best $80 bucks I've spent.
It's inflatable, so storage is a roomy medium duffel they provided.
It is very hard to capsize, due to buoyancy.
I've had big dogs, little dogs, and medium dogs in it, even jumping out of it, and it has not popped or stretched, or shown wear from it. It's pretty durable.
This is the one I got -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A7EXF4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ruoSCbT7RJHEY
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
It's an Origin8 Classique HD. It mounts on the axle and brake-bolt. It says 'max load 55 lbs' but I've put 80 on it with no physical problems... just really hard to turn.
I have flashing LED lights which you can't miss in the dark. Red in the back and white in the front.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s01?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Just one, I had bought a bunch of light up junk totally unrelated for a silly race, and it happened to fit perfectly around the board. Well, perfectly around my board, with those particular bash guards on.
I folded the light strip in half, marked it, taped it center front (just to hold it in place), and put the bash guard over it to lock it into place.
With the hot glue gun, I did one small section at a time. One squeeze of the trigger worth, and then pushed the light strip into it all the way, so it made good contact with the board. Don't try to smooth it like caulk, it'll get weird.
The light strip ends just as it reaches the rear bash guard with about 1 cm space left on each side. So whether or not it looks even depends on how well you centered the whole thing.
With the head and tail light on, it looks pretty good, I think. I Prime Now'd the same Blitzu bike tail light from another post on here that I can't find at the moment. And then ordered the headlight that I figured might fit on the front truck. It does. Barely. Sort of. If you turn hard, you might into some issues. I have yet to really test that before I get a second one. The neat thing is that the headlight(s) now point into the direction I'm turning.
A few more photos of various angles.
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.
Here are some ideas
http://www.amazon.com/Surly-Nice-Rack-Black-Cromoly/dp/B001GSQULS
http://www.arkel-od.com/us/all-categories/touring-bike-bag/t-42-lite-touring-panniers.html#!/more-details
http://www.amazon.com/Brooks-Saddles-Special-Bicycle-Saddle/dp/B001AYMOAY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1367506572&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=Brooks+B17+Special+Saddle
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Alien-26-Function-Bicycle-Tool/dp/B000FIE4AE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1367506625&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=topeak+multitool
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=pd_sim_sg_10
http://www.amazon.com/Crane-Suzu-Lever-Strike-Brass/dp/B001MS2KHA/ref=pd_sim_sg_90
http://www.amazon.com/Velo-Orange-Hammered-Alloy-Fender/dp/B004JKK1V0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1367506912&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=velo+orange+fenders+hammered
http://www.amazon.com/Ergon-Series-Bicycle-Handle-Standard/dp/B0015QWRM2/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1367506936&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=ergo+grips
http://www.amazon.com/Spenco-Classic-Glove-Beige-Crochet/dp/B0025UEWR0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1367507174&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=spenco+gloves
http://www.amazon.com/Keen-Commuter-Cycling-Shadow-Gargoyle/dp/B003Z4KPFI/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1367507250&amp;sr=1-1-catcorr&amp;keywords=keen+bike
http://www.amazon.com/Gold-Bond-Medicated-10-Ounce-Containers/dp/B001G7QSS4/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1367507286&amp;sr=1-2-catcorr&amp;keywords=gold+bond
Rather than standard tire levers, I prefer to use a speed lever for changing my tubes/tires. Though I think I want to pick up one of their speedier levers, because that knuckle protection looks pretty sweet.
For a pump, I'm a huge fan of the Topeak Road Morph G. Though on one of my bikes I forgo the pump and just ride with CO2 and a chuck since I flat so rarely and it fit is my seat bag (though I still always carry two tubes).
And as others have said I try to never go for a ride without my multi-tool an ID some cash, a bank or credit card, and my phone.
Great gift. Wear it with pride-just not to work. If you want to have a watch while working on greasy machinery, try a g-shock. They come in a ton of styles and prices, and you have to try fairly hard to break them.
I'm a pilot in the US Air Force and the most common watches in my squadron are either Citizen Skyhawks which retail for about $500 or Casio G-Shocks which retail at about $40 for the one that they issue.
I personally wear a Citizen Blackhawk, a Suunto Core, or a GPW when I fly.
I've worn this watch for several years and it works great.
If you want any watch with both a compass and temperature readings, it sounds like you'd be better off with a Casio Pro-Trek. They have more sensors than G-shocks, and are normally cheaper.
Here's one that costs only 50$ and has a compass, altimeter, thermometer, and barometer. That being said, it's not solar powered, and it has a negative display, which some people dislike (negative displays are slightly harder to read than positive ones).
If you want to go cheaper or really want a positive display, here's a 40$ one, but it does not have a compass or tough solar.
If you have your heart set on a g-shock. The only one with a compass and thermometer is this one, which, at 180$, does break the bank.
If you don't really care about a compass or thermometer that much and really want a g-shock, I can personally vouch for this at 40$, it's a steal. Other commonly recommended G-shocks are this one because it's less bulky and this one because not only is it less bulky, but it's one of the cheapest G-shocks with multiband-6 (for automatically syncing itself to the correct time) and tough solar.
My overall recommendation to you would be the 50$ Pro-Trek, as I think it fits your needs the best for cheap. However if you are against negative displays, it might not be for you.
Edit: Also the watch you chose is pretty cool. I just saw it was only 62$ on Amazon, that's a great option as well.
Recently bought the DW9052-1V G-Shock. Quite cheap, rugged (as far as I can tell, as with all G-shocks), ang going for $40. Waterproof down to 200m (at least that's what it says).
I use Chamois Butter https://www.amazon.com/Chamois-Buttr-Original-8oz-tube/dp/B000HZGTUS It is designed for biking but it works well for hiking or other exercise too. It is a thick cream, similar but thicker to hand moisturizer.
They have a version for women but I don't know what the difference is.
You could try a defogger solution like this.
I have heard people using anti-fog treatment that is made for SCUBA diving masks on their airsoft masks with good results. here is a link to one of these, it may be worth trying before you spend the money on another pair of goggles
From Google image searching it looks like Presta valve. Quite a lot of pumps work with this type of valve except for the very cheapest of pumps. The valve is narrower than a schrader (like a car tire) valve, which allows your rims to be narrower and lighter because the hole in the rim for the valve is smaller.
As an example: http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Blow-Sport-Floor-Pump/dp/B002B7LTBY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1415395593&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=joe+blow
Once I got used to presta I actually greatly prefer it to schrader. I have some old bikes at my parents house that use schrader and probably will put presta tubes in em at some point just do be done with it.
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
H03
Definitely get a bib, not shorts. I hate the elastic in shorts, and bibs also don't shift around on you. I am a big fan of Voler and they also have some of their items on sale on their website right now.
You didn't specify which kind of pump you have. If you don't have a floor pump; get one. You will always want to top off your tires before you go out. There is a lot of debate on pumps, but I love my Joe Blow Sport.
Don't get a camelbak. I am in love with my camelbak for hiking, skiing, hunting, etc. but hate it for road cycling. It is uncomfortable in the road cycling position. I'm no expert, but it also seems to generate a lot more drag, which will slow you down. Get bottles instead.
I'm a huge fan of 24 oz Polar Bottle. They are cheap and keep your drinks pretty cold.
I would also recommend a quality energy drink if you are going on long rides (4+ hrs). I love Cytomax Tropical Fruit. Buy super cheap bottles if you are using energy powder, because they are hard to clean and get kinda gross after a while. Before I started using a good energy drink, I would tend to bonk out after 4-ish hours. Switching to an energy drink helped me keep going on longer rides.
If you bought all of these things, you would be just shy of $200. Things I'd consider but don't think are absolutely necessary are: gloves and a good jersey. Also a bike computer, but a lot of people are just using Strava on their phones. You can also buy another bib in case you want to ride multiple days in a row.
Hope this helps!
Edit: Definitely have a portable pump and/or CO2 inflator with you on your rides.
I have the Topeak Joe Blow for home and Topeak MasterBlaster on my bike. I'd recommend the Morph wholeheartedly - it's got more power than my MasterBlaster, due to its larger footprint and footstand. Should get you through most anything, but a good big pump at home is invaluable.
I purchased the joe blow 2 a few months ago. I've had to use it about every weekend to repair flats. So far it's done its job.
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.
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.
Funnily enough it was an Intex, looks like this one:
https://www.amazon.com/Intex-Explorer-2-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum/dp/B00A7EXF4C
I don't have personal experience with this specific one but it has fine ratings on amazon so I'm sure its good.
you will never believe me. I was so doubting this thing, but my goodness it does the job well, better oars soon, and this is after 5 evening trips and yes even the boat scraping things, and going from Henderson to Pembina and than back.
Figured it to be a cheap way of seeing if I'd truly enjoy this, I'm now already saving for a real one next summer.
https://www.amazon.ca/Intex-Explorer-2-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum/dp/B00A7EXF4C/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=k2+explorer&amp;qid=1562610827&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-1
Looks like this one
Intex Challenger K1 Kayak, 1-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_LzfCCbW1CV1NC
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A7EXF4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_aAfCCbSVPR0PS
I own both and can attest that they are perfect for calm water with light breeze. The pump they come with inflate the kayak in under 10 minutes. They weigh about 15-20 lbs each.
The explorer k2 handles more like a canoe.
Happy paddling!
It's all fantastic! Start your hikes early (at sunrise) if you want privacy on the trails. They fill up fast. Most of the Banff parking lots are full by 9 or 10 AM.
Bear spray is a must. Pepper spray is technically illegal in Canada, but I told the border guard I had it when I crossed and and he let me take it in with zero grief. Just don't try to hide it.
I also highly recommend bringing a kayak. I brought my inflatable Intex Explorer K2 ($94.94 on Amazon and usually about $70 at Academy). You might be able to buy one when you arrive if you don't want to fly it in. The water is an excellent place to really take in the views and break away from the crowds.
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 have a feeling it's going to be an origin8 classique front rack, but it comes tomorrow. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B135SSE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_JHwKxbW4EKXZW
Other than that, my Cygolight Dash 350/Micro Shot head and tail light combo. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013FIYP8G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_MGwKxbWRPVSW0
Thanks! Here it is:
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00B135SSE
Check out the Origin8 Front Cargo Rack, it's much more solidly build and has double the rated weight capacity.
https://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Classique-Cargo-Front-Rack/dp/B00B135SSE
I used mine fully loaded up for a 2 week offroad bikepacking trip which included a good bit of rugged singletrack and it held up great, and that was after using it for two years to haul myself and all my stuff around the city on my commuter.
It doesn't work with thru axels but will work okay on fender mounts if you use washers.
First time riding with a front rack (Origin8 Classique Cargo), and it wasn't a bad ride at all. However, getting used to the new handling along with the temp and winds, gave me quite the workout.
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.
Blitzu Cyborg
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015IFA03I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_hT.lDbK9W0JPF
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2T.lDb3DRK579
This one is my favorite of the lights I use, and it's rechargeable:
https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1511376731&amp;sr=8-6&amp;keywords=
This one also works great, and runs on 2x AAA batteries:
https://www.amazon.com/CatEye-Omni-Bike-Light-Rear/dp/B008QVXQ1K/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1511376770&amp;sr=8-8&amp;keywords=
For the front, I use this thingy with any number of rechargeable (18650 powered) flashlights that I have:
https://www.amazon.com/Two-Fish-Lockblocks-Flashlight-Holder/dp/B001CJXB5E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1511376885&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=
https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC
I use a Cygolite Metro 550 up front, and a Blitzu Blitzu Cyborg 168T on the rear.
I don't use turn/brake lights. I don't think they offer an added benefit, and are kinda fiddly to get them to work 100% reliably. If you're using a signaling device ... it should be 100% reliable. I think having a rear flasher is plenty as it simply says "See me! I'm a bicycle and slower than you!".
The cygolite is plenty bright for riding on unlit roads, and has multiple modes/brightness levels. I mostly use the "strobe" during daylight hours, and "steady pulse" mode after sunset.
The blizu offers a few brightness levels on "steady", as well as 3 flashing modes (strobe, bright pulse, less-bright pulse). The strobe mode is very fast ... like a strobe light in a disco. The pulse mode is sort of "normal" flashing like a car's turn signal. I use the "strobe" mode during the day for its attention-grabbing ability, and the less-frantic "pulse" mode at night to ensure it gets people's attention without inducing seizures.
Both are USB rechargeable, which was a big deciding factor for me. I hate having to buy/replace batteries all the time. A "desired" feature would be a design that allows USB charging with replaceable batteries (using industry-standard sizes) for longer outings, but these generally last long enough for most of my excursions.
Here's what I have-
Backpack: https://www.dakine.com/en-us/bags/backpacks/street-backpacks/mission-25l-backpack-17w/
Helmet: https://triple8.com/product/the-certified-sweatsaver/?category_name=skate
Shoes: https://www.vans.com/shop/suede-canvas-old-skool#hero=0
Pads: https://triple8.com/product/saver-series-3-pack-box/?category_name=skate
I only used all of the pads for about the first week or so, but I still wear the wrist guards-they've prevented serious injuries!
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Board light (tail of the board): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Board light #2 (front of the board): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IFA03I/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Front Backpack light (goes on my backpack strap, or hooked to my jacket on my forward facing shoulder): https://www.olightstore.com/h1r-cool-white.html
Back Backpack light (goes around my backpack): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N1SM2NQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The board lights aren't super bright, they're mostly so people can see what I'm riding. The O light makes riding at night very safe, and my back light has great visibility.
As for tools, I carry my skate tool and a couple of hexes, and some spare belts. I have a charger I leave in my office and one in my backpack all the time.
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Hope this helps!
It was a this one
It's great, stupid bright and lasts at least two full days but I try to charge it everyday at the office.
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.
What kind of pumps did you have trouble with? Stem mounted ones I presume?
If you're still interested in a pump, I'd recommend you get one with a hose. I have a Topeak Road Morph G and it works great. It functions like a floor pump so you can use your body weight when pumping.
I've got the Topeak Road Morph G which I'd give a 8/10 after using it as my exclusive pump for almost a year. The build quality seemed okay at first but it's showing signs of age quickly and after being mounted to my frame is collecting all sorts of sand and dust internally that is affecting its performance – I should probably clean it. On the plus side, it's large and easy to use even to get high PSI and it has a built-in PSI. On the downside, it's large and somewhat hard to mount on my frame.
This is the best advice here. As for a pump, if you're going to go with a regular pump this one is what seemed to come up the most when I searched this sub and it's served me pretty well. It does kinda rattle a bit when riding, though. Down the line you'll probably want to get a regular floor pump, too, something like this maybe.
I'd also agree that gloves aren't necessary. Also agree with two cages and two water bottles. I started with just one bottle but quickly realized that I need two. Any old cage will do, and Camelbak Podium bottles are a popular choice. I got the clear one so I can tell at a glance how much water I have left.
Get a pump with a little hose. And a pressure gauge built in is nice too. The hose makes it so much easier to pump because you can push against the ground to inflate. I have this one, I recommend it. It goes up to 100 psi easy so works for tubliss. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_V-9Vzb90SXVD4
I use a Topeak rack with bag setup.
Just be careful and dont get a beach cruiser!!!!! id recommend a hybrid bike like a trek 7.1 and put a rack on it for panniers so you can carry your stuff. Also if you are over weight i highly recommend a brooks saddle i have a b17 and its wonderful on my ass. Also bike shorts 4.3 miles aint long, but it will make your life much easier. A cheap walmart bike will break often and be expensive to repair. Refer over to r/bicycling to learn more if you are strapped for cash id go with this bike its a good all rounder and bikesdirect is a good company, or a trek and the seat brooks b17 bike rack panniers shorts
Once again do not buy a bike from walmart it will make you hate bicycling. Oh also rules and sheldon brown a repository of all things cycling
Best of luck to you, safe riding and Dont buy this!!
Shaving 20 minutes off that time should be no problem, you only need to average 4 more miles and hour. Stick with it. I started commuting to work 6 miles each way about 3 weeks ago and it's awesome. Here's some stuff that'll make your ride more pleasant, if your bike doesn't already have these:
Also, I'll vouch that cycling is possible in any weather, if you dress for it. I've gone mountain biking in December in Denver, and not just once.
Also also - don't think of it as taking 20 more minutes, think of it as an hour workout that only takes you 20 minutes :)
That's definitely a steal. Have heard good things about these Tubus racks.
However, anyone have experience with an Ibera PakRak:
http://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-Touring-IB-RA4-Frame-mounted/dp/B002T5H8MW/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1458744660&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=tubus+rack
Looks like a good deal. I'm looking for a rear rack that can accept panniers.
Right now, I have this Topeak Explorer rack on my Schwinn Varsity:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FIE3WI?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01
My bike is a commuter but I am planning on taking it on some short weekend / week-long tours this summer, hopefully going for a month long tour at the tail end of summer.
Thanks for any insight, everyone! Cheers!
After consulting with this subreddit I went with a topeak rear rack and a wald wire basket. I secured the basket to the rack with four Nite Ize gear ties and it feels really secure.
I was looking for a cheaper option than buying all of the matching baskets and panniers that go with the topeak rear rack. I have a limited budget to spend on new bike gear each paycheck, so i'm slowly buying new items.
Today was the first ride without my backpack on my back. It was definitely an interesting feeling. I felt super light, but the back of the bike was weighed down.
Any comments or suggestions?
Thanks for the reminder. It was such a whirlwind trying to get everything in BikeIndex and Garage529 and talking to the police that I forgot to put the details here.
For the Cannondale Synapse SE 105 Disc 2019 it is unfortunately a 2 month old bike so it doesn't have too much to distinguish it from a stock new bike. The only modifications that I did were reversible accessory additions like
The bike rack looks a little out of place compared to the rest of it as it is actually a little beat up from wear on a previous bike. It also sports a Cambridge Bicycle store sticker. Serial number MD21685
For the Marin Fairfax SC4 Belt 2018 it is a little easier. It has a bike room sticker for EF Education first. It also has the same Topeak bike rack which is beat up from a car accident. The left rear side of the rack is bent in slightly. It also has one of the water bottle holders and has the normal Cycliq Fly12CE camera mount directly attached. The belt drive is also fairly unusual so I am hoping it stands out more. It also has a sticker for Farina's in Watertown and the serial number appears to be 041716870 MRN-111-01-190.
G-shock all day if you're in the military and need something invincible. Basic model: https://www.amazon.com/Casio-DW9052-1V-G-Shock-Stainless-Digital/dp/B000GAYQLI/ref=sr_1_1/165-2791740-5293225?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1474074814&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=g+shock
Have you tried body glide or chamois butter for chaffing? I use Chamois butter for my runs and never experience chaffing issues.
There are probably a lot more cyclists than you think. Especially in major cities like NYC where lush is huge.
I use this product and it's almost $20 a tube. Well worth it for it's purpose though. I've also been known to use it when I wear a skirt or a dress too. Honestly the cycling shop is sold out of it sometimes. It's pretty much an industry standard.
I'd gladly buy a lush version!
OOH. You ever use chamois butter? You basically use it to grease up your taint/nipples/whatever might chafe for running/biking/paddling etc. There are quite a few creams that work like this, butt this one is one of my favorites. It's a game changer!
Since I also bike, this does double duty.
This stuff is the best:
http://www.amazon.com/Chamois-Buttr-8-Ounce-Skin-Lubricant/dp/B000HZGTUS
Also, if touring or riding all day, use a baby wipe to clean everything out down there if it is hot or you deuce then reapply the Chamois Buttr, or as my riding buddy says: the "Butt Lube."
After that it's just conditioning the sit-bones.
Rashes will make something that can be so fun, so miserable.
Also, pick up one of these
http://www.amazon.com/Chamois-Buttr-Original-8oz-tube/dp/B000HZGTUS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1450021954&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=butt+chamois
it feels great! specially if you sweat and it gets in your private area.
I have this inflatable kayak and I know it sounds ridiculous but it honestly works great. I've used it multiple times without any issue.
to echo /u/jtet93- you're not going to find any good "secret" spots, unless you know someone with a private roof deck. Memorial drive side is usually less crowded, but still very much so.
Otherwise, I bought these and they're effing great. Dropped them in 10 minutes before the show
https://www.amazon.com/Intex-Challenger-1-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1466691316&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=intex+challenger
Frig been looking for a great inflatable kayak? Anyone have a good suggestion (links please) under 200$. Ive been on amazon for a while and have a few I like, but it’s hard to tell if it will be shit or not.
Leaning on this one: Intex Challenger K1 Kayak, 1-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_whOTAbDGJMM64
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.
As long as it's not way too small or large for you, that's a good buy. I own a vintage road bicycle and enjoy it more than most modern bicycles I've ridden. That being said, my recommendations:
Peugeots are definitely solid vintage road bicycles. I would have bought this if it were on my local Craigslist. As others have said, these are also great to convert to single speeds or fixies, but I'd keep it as a road bike. However if you wanted to sell it at a later date and you live near a college, it might be easier to sell it as a fixie ;).
Congrats, enjoy the ride.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002B7LTBY/
I use this one and it has been great:
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Blow-Sport-Floor-Pump/dp/B002B7LTBY/ref=sr_1_2/182-7405441-5301903?s=cycling&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1419998243&amp;sr=1-2
My last pump was a POS and didn't have a built in gauge. I'm much happier with this one.
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
A lot of hand pumps are tough to get skinny tire pressures, but I've had really good luck with the Road Morph. The nice little hose lets you put the thing on the ground and pump against the ground like a little floor pump. 110psi no problem.
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1370837529&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=topeak+road+morph
I really like this pump I bought last year to mount on my frame. Good balance of compactness and utility, it has a pressure gauge, and the presta/schrader adapter stays in the pump in either configuration so I don't have to worry about losing extra parts.
I got this rack off of amazon, and used some old panniers that my dad had.
As for fenders, just go to your LBS and they will set you up. I honestly don't know what kind of fenders that I have, but hey, they work.
My commute is pretty short, a little over 2 miles each way, and I have never had any issues with it.
I used to have this problem but then I put one of these on my bike.
On my large size Giant Escape 3, I have a Topeak Explorer MTX: http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-63107030-Explorer-Bike-Rack/dp/B000FIE3WI
I didn't shop around much, though, that's just what the LBS had in stock.
I did the install myself and it was pretty straightforward. The only tricky part was that you have to bend the front rails of the rack down to meet up with the seatstay mounting bolts, and make sure the rails give clearance for the "noodle" part of the rear brake.
I did backpack for a while too, and got this rack and a cheap pannier and have never looked back.
I have upgraded my pannier to something really nice, but not in scope for a commuter. 40 litre seems quite big for commuting. Might want to consider leaving the shoes at work, and the ULock, and perhaps bring in closes for several days, to cut down on weight and volume.
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https://www.amazon.com/Explorer-Rack-Without-Spring-Black/dp/B000FIE3WI/ref=asc_df_B000FIE3WI/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312070810048&hvpos=1o4&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10069077748661583872&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9029706&hvtargid=aud-801381245258:pla-381714914542&psc=1
I recently bought a Giant Escape 2 for commuting from Arlington to Downtown DC and it works great, I got the bike and lock for less than $500. If you want to look at bikes, Papillion Bicycles is the local Giant dealer and Spokes etc. is one of the local Trek and Specialized dealers. You can go and ride the bikes and see what you like, but at that price point almost all the hybrid bikes are the same.
After that I got a Topeak rear rack with this Trunk Bag and it works great, fits my computer, clothes and even lunch. It has side panniers that fold out. I would recommend that you get some cygolite front and rear lights from amazon as well.
If you're serious about commuting, something along these lines is your best bet.
[Here is my setup] (http://imgur.com/gallery/IBw0q)
Edit: Word
Most/any rack will likely be fine. I have a Topeak explorer tubular rack, it wasn't very costly and has held up well for the last four years or so I've been using it on my daily commutes.
Also my favorite upgrade was the rear rack. I stopped having the back sweat patch from backpacks.
Explorer Rack Without Spring, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FIE3WI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_16VXCbPYK7JYQ
That's a bike rack, not a seat. Here's the amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-63107030-Explorer-Bike-Rack/dp/B000FIE3WI/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1346624054&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=bike+rack
Yeah a good rack and panniers will go a long way. I picked one of these up on sale for $20 bucks, and matched it with one of the MTX bags. Super convenient for commuting, since you barely notice the weight when it's over your back wheel.
What I have here:
Not pictured: Nokia Lumia 822
I have like 4 of these. Just incase I forget my main one, have one in my car, one in my gear bag and one in my rack. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000GAYQLI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_acG5BbTG3Q2V4
Gets the job done
G-Shock Men's DW9052-1V.
Super durable get the job done watch, no fancy bells or whistles. I didn't realize it when I bought it a few years ago but it's the same one soldiers are outfitted with for deployment. Up the taticool factor when I found out haha.
I have the green version of the 7900 and like it a lot. The second watch listed i have played with before and didn't like it because i felt like the buttons were kind of hard to press, compared to the 7900 where the buttons are completly exposed.
If you like the color scheme of the second watch more, consider this colorway of the 7900
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000GAYQLI/ref=ox_sc_act_image_2?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER#nav-search-keywords
G SHOCK!
I love it but I admit I got it as a gift. I was wearing $10 walmart watches for about a year. Go with a cheapo for a while but understand your shit will get wrecked if you wear it long enough.
I use this stuff from time to time, but I have found that A&D Ointment (it's for diaper rash) works just as good and is cheaper.
Chamois Butt'r
Chamois Butt'r
I use it every time I run, and during long rows.
Toss some baby powder down there when you run or get some buttr and try that for a bit. I am not a doctor either but it looks like a heat rash to me.
Source: I was in the desert for a long time and it was super hot so I understand heat rash...
I liberally apply chamois cream (primarily a cyclist, but I dabble in ultra running) before every run and it's made life magical.
This Assos stuff is incredible but pricey.
Chamois Butt'r is also great
I'm a pretty serious cyclist every one posting about the anti chaffing product is right one
Chamois Butt'r works great for me
http://www.amazon.com/Chamois-Buttr-Original-8oz-tube/dp/B000HZGTUS/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1422101306&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=chamois+butt%27r they have smaller ones as well so you can buy a single 9ml packet like this to see if it works for you.
http://gearx.com/paceline-chamois-butter-9ml?gclid=CJiB-tHMrMMCFUVk7AodAxAAdw
Check with a local bicycle shop or REI (if your in the US)
The wife and I are all about this stuff to combat the chaffing(I lol'd at chub rub):
https://www.amazon.com/Chamois-Buttr-Original-Anti-Chafe-Cream/dp/B000HZGTUS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1521737486&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=chamois+buttr
You can also get something like it at bike shops -- Chamois cream! Technically it's for your bike shorts, but it also works as a good skin lubricant.
Your breathing too much. Jk. Just get that spit stuff from amazon that is used for divers masks. I use that every once in a while and totally prevents any fogging.
Jaws Quick Spit Antifog Spray, 1-Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iXTzDbVD2S677
You can buy little sprays of swimming anti-fog off Amazon or probably at a sport store. Usually spray it once at the beginning, but sometimes you don't need to do it every swim. Been using this one and find it works well.
The fogging is basically your original anti-fog coating that may have come with the goggles is already wearing off. There's not much to do besides spraying it with anti-fog and rinsing it. Rinse is thoroughly as you don't want this in your eyes.
Not a problem! Here’s what I got. Jaws Quick Spit Antifog Spray,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012Q2S4W?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Multiple sources - both websites and forums - have recommended this solution dating back to the CV1. Since it only fogs up in the beginning, I’ve held off on using it. I’ll probably use it only if/when long sessions start resulting in fog.
Here's my setup,
Revision Desert locust goggles : https://www.evike.com/products/35174/
These thermal lenses : https://www.evike.com/products/51192/
Magnetic Fog Wiper for Ski & Snowboard Mask
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009WRSVI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_kzn3Cb5EXERCM
Jaws Quick Spit Antifog Spray, 1-Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IAn3Cb3CAXGBT
Tactical Crusader 2G Airsoft Strike Steel Half Mask, Jungle Camouflage https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EP6YVUK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_iBn3CbVYH3186
Take the face mask, goggles and zipties and follow this video tutorial
https://youtu.be/Vx7mxc5vn0A
This is what I'm running. Best thing out there in my opinion. If you are STILL having issues - return the goggles and get these https://www.evike.com/products/36909/
These have a fan in them to help. And you can put the thermal lens in these and everything else too.
Now you don't have to go all out, there's cheaper stuff out there. But for the love of god, do SOMETHING different. Because with a "setup" like that nobody's gonna feel bad for u when u get an eye shot or lose a tooth.
I used to use this stuff back when I swam to keep my goggles clear. JAWS Quick Spit Anti-fog Spray
It worked out pretty well. There are a bunch of anti-fog sprays out there that work well with swimming, and I can only imagine inside your glasses is less humid than a pool.
I use quick spit spray and it’s worked well for me.
Jaws Quick Spit Antifog Spray, 1-Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9AsWCbYXBSNHM
Yep :) both invest in some anti fog goggles, as well as the spray from amazon. It works so well, it is crazy.
I have always had a problem with fogging, both for this, or snorkeling, or snowboarding. this stuff here has been amazing and life changing for me.
Make sure you follow the instructions though, including spraying on, letting dry a bit, and then buffing.
Gonna go ahead and recommend a much cheaper option- the Intex Challenger K1. It's a surprisingly great little inflatable and packs up pretty well, with a $70 price tag to boot. I used mine for two summers on some calm lakes and rivers and never had an issue with leaking. In my opinion, definitely the best budget option for someone just tipping their toes in kayaking.
Looks like this might be it: Intex Challenger K1 Kayak
You can get an inflatable one for <$100 to see if you actually like it. I've had this one for 3 years and I still use it!
https://www.amazon.com/Intex-Challenger-1-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1467374052&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=kayak
Most inflatable kayaks are either kids toys or pretty much expensive and heavy.
but.
I was on a local lake a few weeks ago and saw a group paddling a couple of inflatables along with a rec boat. We chatted. These boats are packable, come in a bag with pump, skeg, paddle, seat and boat for $90 CAN. Must be less in the US.
Here it is in Canada: https://www.amazon.ca/Intex-Challenger-1-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=sr_1_3?crid=PRUQD6QUCIT8&amp;keywords=intex+inflatable+kayak&amp;qid=1567993823&amp;s=gateway&amp;sprefix=Intex+inflatable+kayaks%2Caps%2C224&amp;sr=8-3
The girls said these were the most comfortable things like evar, they felt safe on the lake and they certainly had no trouble scooting along...it didn't seem like they were working hard to get anywhere like in those inflatable raft things.
Also I saw these two kayaks. [Kayak A] (https://www.amazon.com/Challenger-1-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum-Output/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1491251606&amp;sr=8-5&amp;keywords=Kayak) [Kayak B] (https://www.amazon.com/Sevylor-Quikpak-K1-1-Person-Kayak/dp/B00EVII3BK/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1491251606&amp;sr=8-15&amp;keywords=Kayak). Tell me what you think of them.
You can buy inflatable kayaks for relatively cheap. Here's one on Amazon for $87.80 and ships for free if you have a Prime account. I think I saw some Kayaks in Target or Wal-mart but I'm not sure how much they were. They may have cheaper inflatable ones also.
Check all sporting good stores. There's a new one near Cedar Bluff called Acadamy Sports + Outdoors.
Welcome to our beautiful state. There are too many scenic lakes to list. I'd recommend you buy an inflatable kayak and start exploring. Most people won't share their favorite spots anyways.
I use this on lakes and annually on the Platte
Intex Challenger K1 Kayak, 1-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-FdQCb12GW4QF
It was well worth the investment
•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.
If you're using tubs... or tubeless (can't remember which), I can't help you much from experience, but I can tell you Lezyne makes some beautiful and well-engineered products and you'll need a shock pump to seat the tubular or tubeless tires onto the rim, so I would feel confident recommending this Lezyne floor pump.
On the other hand, if you run clinchers, I've had good luck with this Topeak Joe Blow pump, rated for up to something like 160psi
Also, you likely already know, but just in case, here's /r/triathlon
Thanks again for doing these giveaways!!
Skilhunt h03 please
I’ve fetched the link for you. Edit your post.
skillhunt h03
Skilhunt H03
Your 5 tubes could have almost bought [this] (https://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Blow-Sport-Floor-Pump/dp/B002B7LTBY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1503409742&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=topeak+bike+pump). Just buy a proper pump already. I use this pump, it works great.
I've been very happy with my Joe Blow Sport II.
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 :)
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!
Can’t speak for OP, but I have an inflatable Intex kayak
My wife got it for me as a Valentine’s Day present. I’ve only used it a few times but it’s amazingly stable. There is plenty of room for all your gear and pole. The only thing I found is that it drifts ALOT if you try and sit in one spot.
This kayak
Oh my god I would never leave the water if I owned a kayak. (Actually I would when it freezes over in the winter).
Have you considered an inflatable kayak? I have a couple of these and they're great. At that weight I can carry one in a backpack with other gear and use folding oars like walking sticks. I like the chambered design of this one too. I was out on a lake in Yellowstone as one chamber was deflating (cut on obsidian sand shards) but the thing stayed afloat and steady. I was out there with 2 squirming kids for over an hour after that side went completely flat and we were fine. It's easy to patch too.
Sure does, and the pump. Looks like the price went up though, at least on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00A7EXF4C/ref=pd_aw_sim_468_2?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=4DNFZYDRRG23ESVB4W7T
Nope but I did buy something from the related items page https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00A7EXF4C/ref=pd_aw_sbs_21_of_28?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=EGZKC3E6EDNA7EMN92YK
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.
My unpopular opinion, especially if this is your only bike, is to go fixed. The bike is cheaper/tougher for the money, and less maintenance means better reliability. And for you the rider, it teaches/reinforces proper pedal stroke and ability to hold higher cadence, which translates to your ability to do 50+ mile rides after just a month or so of riding. Something like a Kilo TT Pro with a porter rack is a helluva city beater. I threw some flat bars on mine and its comfy as hell. And with the front rack you can bungee a regular waterproof backpack or whatever and don't have to buy actual panniers. Anyways, just my 2¢
https://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Classique-Cargo-Front-Rack/dp/B00B135SSE is this the rack?
Side note: Anyone have any luck painting a rack?
Trying to get it to match my silver/grey back rack
https://imgur.com/a/iadO0TL
It's an Origin8 and then he put a basket on it.
http://www.amazon.com/Classique-Cargo-HD-Front-Rack/dp/B00B135SSE ?
Modular in the sense that you can lash a basket or box to it/hook things onto it.
Pretty lucky to have gotten the bag that’s for sure! Rack is from Origin 8
Origin8 Classique Cargo HD Front Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B135SSE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QDNSBbDF7YFCZ
Get a front rack instead. It makes your fixie feel like a Cadillac. Rear racks (imo) make bikes feel sluggish and spongy.
I have this one, but I don't know why it's so expensive now
Get this one, attaches to bolt axle and brake hole
https://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Classique-Cargo-Front-Rack/dp/B00B135SSE
It's actually an origin 8 classique hd. I purchased it because it was just like the cetma half rack but way less expensive. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00B135SSE?pc_redir=1405364067&amp;robot_redir=1
I have this Origin-8 rack on the front of my Surly Ogre, and it has been amazing. It's just about the same thing for around $55 instead of $140, and it is super sturdy and light.
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.
By far, the best cheap light I’ve found is this one by inbike I got it in a lot of amazon return stuff and I didn’t get the mount with it, so I can’t speak for whatever comes with it. The light runs on 18650 cells which are the way to go imo. Pick up a couple more and wall charger and you’re good to go.
I have a version of this one on a couple bikes as well. Same light just non branded. Bright and rechargeable. One has been coated in mud several times and still works fine.
All lights you purchase will have mounts included with them, look for USB rechargeable lights as opposed to battery operated lights.
On the frame in the rear
Ultra Bright Bike Light Blitzu Cyborg 168T USB Rechargeable Bicycle Tail Light. Red High Intensity Rear LED Accessories Fits On Any Road Bikes, Helmet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_TOF7radLPpoOj
Under the saddle.
LE Super Bright Bike Light, USB Rechargeable Rear Tail Light, Cycling Light, 4 LEDs, 5 Light Modes, Red, Cable Included, Fits on any Bicycles, Helmets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0197X16BC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_kdJj4Z6x6Tr61
There are much better lights available, I'm upgrading my front currently. So I don't have a link.
And apologies if the links don't work. Not that tech savvy.
Why lights? Safety. Night or day. Be seen, drivers will pay attention.
What kind of cycling? Mountain biking, road cycling, just commuting? I ride at night all the time, I usually ride to a bar a few times a month. My 10 yo son and I rode to the movies the other night.
Make sure you have a decent light setup. I use an urban 500
https://www.amazon.com/Light-Motion-Urban-500-Headlight/dp/B01F0FCAKW?th=1 for a head light and this rear blinker
https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Helmets-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=sr_1_25_sspa?keywords=amazon+rear+bike+light&qid=1556798034&s=gateway&sr=8-25-spons&psc=1
along with a neon green jacket and two led wheel lights. I find that people actually see me more at night than during the day.
&#x200B;
I have this setup for my kids https://www.amazon.com/Ascher-Rechargeable-Headlight-Resistant-Included/dp/B01EUQ7ZQG/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_468_bs_lp_t_1/147-0384363-3958821?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=58XK20AREYT4CNVC9WYV
and it's actually really decent.
I use the Cyborg Blitzu ( https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Helmets-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC ) with the mount wrapped around my rear Axiom Streamliner rack's flat bridge in the rear (makes sense when you stare at it), and the light oriented vertically. It's probably a bit floppy but it hasn't fallen off or rotated out of position after ~500 miles. No modification needed.
Cheap too, ~$15? Also has excellent side visibility, which is the primary reason I use it.
Here you go:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=digi1516-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=B015IEJ0GC&amp;linkId=f7fc1dcbed92d3ed05d81d708edeab4d
No, one of these: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015IEJ0GC/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Ive got a rear and head light by the blitzu company and they work great. Rechargeable, 3 different power settings, flashing and non flashing settings, and a decently long battery life. (6 hours)
Edit: headlight
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015IFA03I/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506555869&amp;sr=8-8&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&amp;keywords=bicycle+light+blitzu&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=51gyEU3rBNL&amp;ref=plSrch
Taillight
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015IEJ0GC/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506555869&amp;sr=8-6&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&amp;keywords=bicycle+light+blitzu&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=51D0%2BGi4UaL&amp;ref=plSrch
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Blow-Sport-Floor-Pump/dp/B002B7LTBY
I have a mountain bike with fat on/off road tires and they get filled to ~55 psi for road use.
My bicycle pump is all I ever use to fill up my motorcycle tires, and I've used it on my car tires in a pinch, though it does take 5-10 minutes or so for car tires if they are really low!
Hey, I was very recently in the same place as you. I bought my first road bike this summer and my first few rides were plagued by pinch flats. I think a large part of the problem was in fact my pump. It was a cheapy with no gauge on it.
I bought one of these joe blow pumps from my LBS. Best decision I made. No flats ever since (which is about 200 miles and a sprint triathlon in extremely crappy conditions). Although I am slightly saddened that I paid 20$ more for that same pump you see in the link, I'm glad its about the same price then as the pump you said you already have. It is a great pump and all you will ever need. Hope this helps.
It's just a plastic/rubber gasket that will seal over a schrader or presta valve. Other popular pumps have a two-sided valve.
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
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.
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 just got one of the inflatable ones and freaking love it. The single has 2 chambers and the double has 3. It's pretty tough stuff and as a complete newb, I felt really safe and stable.
Basically, how bad do you want to get on the water?
How much to rent a handful of times vs $60 for a single or $75 for a double. Both with really high reviews.
I love the double because I can just lean back and relax. I'm in Buffalo NY and went down the river and got to the edge of the lake. It got really choppy and I felt exttemely stable and safe.
My friend and I are planning on taking them to Allegheney and kayaking into where we want to camp. 400 lb limit on the double. The two of us went out on it when I first got it, for a total of about 475 lbs and we were able to slowly move along but felt completely safe. It convinced him to by both the single and double.
Single: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_IrXpDbJNZC8HY
Double: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00A7EXF4C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_UvXpDbA602H04
Guy who went on class 3/4 whitewater on the double: https://youtu.be/hgWQ0RJKBMU
Great Job! Did something similar once. I recommend looking into this kayak. Works great for trips n such.
My husband and I have the Explorer (https://www.amazon.com/Intex-Explorer-2-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum/dp/B00A7EXF4C/ref=pd_bxgy_468_img_3?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=VAHEVHZJJYNQ2ZA0WTAC) for tandem and it is just the slowest, clumsiest, most comfortable boat. We call it the RaftYak. Tracks like hell without the skeg, but does alright with it.
Oh yeah, apparently, the inflatable kayak in question can handle some “mild rapids”. I would use it for fishing, but wouldn’t take it anywhere rocky
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump
by Intex. 4.3 out of 5 stars 1,990 customer reviews. Amazon's Choice for "kayak"
List Price: $146.99
Price: $79.99 & FREE Shipping.
You Save: $67.00 (46%)
Here you go
Flighty Aunt of Avery- Cindy Lee
I found a nice man last night that has a large boat, I think he might have been the DJ, or maybe he's The Backstreet Boys cover artist in the hotel lounge-- not entirely sure. He is using it to escape the looming tsunami and plans to sail to Australia. A vacation at my favorite spot AND escaping doom, how could I not? Not to mention this boat is fannnncy.
He was leaving pretty early in the morning so unfortunately I didn't get a chance to say bye to anyone-- never really been good at them if I'm honest. **REMINDER TO TALK ABOUT THIS IN THERAPY NEXT WEEK** Although I have to say, this has been quite the memorable trip. Our family vacations get pretty insane, but add Billy's to the mix and that's a whole nother level of crazy. Anywho, it's not a goodbye... it's a see you later! Right?
Speaking of Billy and Avery, I really hope they like their wedding gift, since I decided to come to this whole thing last minute I had to be creative! I had something fast tracked over here for their convenience. Check it out
Au Revoir my dearest family! xo
I use the Intex Explorer K2 - the '2 person' kayak, which actually means "my fat ass, plus my tackle". It's okay - takes maybe 5-10 mins to inflate and deflate, especially with the $10 Intex electric pump on Amazon. It did a good enough job getting me off the bank and out to fish - 9 of my 10 biggest fish last year came from the kayak, once I got off the shore and out to where the fish were. It makes all the difference in the world, even in a pond.
Edit: Just to elaborate a bit more - much like /u/TNNRR I had some big worry about punctures - I had to constantly be on the lookout for submerged timber or rocks that could ruin my day, and sometimes retrieving lures was a dicey proposition when there were branches and such around. Mine also 'wore out' pretty quickly - the skeg just slides in and is super easy to lose, and once you lose it the kayak twists and turns back and forth and makes paddling a nightmare if there's even the slightest bit of wind. It is tall and inflatable so it drifts even more than a normal kayak, and for me an anchor was a necessity. One time, the seat became deflated while on the far side of the lake, and that paddle back, into the wind, with no seatback, was one of the most painful things I've gone through while fishing. Despite that, it's a sub-$100 inflatable, so you expect most of those things. It did a fine enough job, and if you're on a budget it's still a good option.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00A7EXF4C?psc=1&amp;ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_image
I inflate it on site because it's big and won't fit into the back of my vehicle. The dimensions are in the link. I plan to get a small air compressor that plugs into my car because inflating it by hand takes a little while.
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 found some called "Porteur Racks" but they are all for the front.
i basically just want something like this
https://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Classique-Cargo-Front-Rack/dp/B00B135SSE/ref=pd_sbs_468_1?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B00B135SSE&amp;pd_rd_r=TE00W3PQFHBTAADEEKFH&amp;pd_rd_w=Z8V56&amp;pd_rd_wg=kNTgF&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=TE00W3PQFHBTAADEEKFH
but for the back of the bike.
Here's the Amazon link.
Origin8 Classique Cargo HD Front Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B135SSE?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
It's a pretty basic carrier but it gets the job done. Note that it doesn't come with the hardware for mounting it to your fork.
Panniers are by far the best option, but if you're short on cash you can do what myself and others have done: I had the planet bike eco rack with a milk crate zip tied to it and liked it. Just changed it to the origin8 classique front rack w/milk crate and LOVE it. Good luck.
https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Oversized-Aluminum-Pre-installed/dp/B000SPMU9Q
https://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Classique-Cargo-Front-Rack/dp/B00B135SSE/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1510021748&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=Origin8+classique
Try a nice front rack. I have a '94 Singletrack as well that I turn into my commuter during the winter. I am wanting to get a rack and believe a front rack would work better. You can easily put your backpack on there and strap it down. Here: https://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Classique-Cargo-Front-Rack/dp/B00B135SSE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1511010576&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=front+bicycle+rack
I'm not in LA but came across this post while searching for a Caviar courier subreddit(looks like it doesn't exist yet). Would this work for your bike and budget?
http://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Classique-Cargo-Front-Rack/dp/B00B135SSE
Add a heat bag, bungees(I prefer the flat kind).
The map routing situation can be dealt with some MacGuyvering or with more expensive fixes. I have this flattish seat bag that I used to keep spare tubes in; now I have it MacGuyvered onto one of the straps of my backpack. I stick my phone in there instead of a pants pocket. I turn the app volume all the way up and can hear Gmaps routing(if I need it) through the din of NYC traffic.
Bluetooth earbuds, as already mentioned, will work. Small portable BT speakers(that you can somehow attach to a backpack) will work. If you must have the visual map to look at, maybe the mount is your only option..
It's an Origin 8 rack. It's alloy, so it's pretty light for the size of the platform. It's supposed to mount on a solid axle, but I figured out that chainring bolts fit inside the mounting holes perfectly, and the inner diameter of some allow an m5 bolt to fit perfectly. Works great this way.
I've found a front porteur rack (like https://www.amazon.com/Origin8-Classique-Cargo-Front-Rack/dp/B00B135SSE) is a much more convenient solution for hauling a messenger bag or backpack. Depending on the bike, a Wald basket on the front is an even more convenient solution.
Rear racks are great for long-distance touring with a good set of panniers, but using them with anything else (including makeshift panniers) is just not that convenient. Stuff on top of the rack can make mounting/dismounting awkward. Stuff on the side needs to be free of straps and dangly bits that could get caught (or very carefully secured). Heel clearance with makeshift panniers is another concern. Last, but not least, panniers pick up a lot of road grime. Even if it's easy to take your bag off the side of the rack and throw it over your shoulder at the destination, it may be dirty enough you don't want to.
I have one of the Origin 8 cargo racks. I don't love it, but it gets the job done and it was cheap.
Yeah for just a platform rack, you could even look at the Origin8 CargoHD. I have one on my around towner and I love it.
Have any of you used the origin 8 classique rack? Is it any good? If I don't have eyelets should I be fine? Should I spend way more and just get a soma or even a BLB rack?
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
I like these:
https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC
They are USB rechargeable a decent form factor, moderately water resistant and bright enough to be seen. They make a front and a rear. I have a set on each of my bikes. They are long and narrow and you can change the orientation by 90 degrees so you can put it in line with your handlebars or turn it 90 to be in line with your seat post so they blend well in daylight.
Some lights and a helmet are top on my list. Any recommendations on lights? I've got Prime so Amazon makes sense to get something quick and likely cheaper than a local shop. This is what I'm leaning towards. Areas I'd ride at night are pretty visible, so definitely just need something to alert surrounding cars.
Rear light
Front light
Blitzu Cyborg https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_5wNFAb1J15G62
You don't need to spend much on the bike frame itself, but you will need a light for the front, one for the back, a few tools to help you change your own tires and tubes (look into them, not expensive), patch them, et cetera. It sounds daunting but it really isn't, and it's fun knowing you have control over your thing. Like with a computer when you build one.
Cyclists in Boston chain their bikes up to lamps and signs (trees I think are illegal in some cities, so I don't), and bike racks of course. There's the threat of theft though I never experienced it. I always leave my bike in a visible area on the street, so that if someone were to try anything they'd be in sight of a camera or something nearby. Or unfortunately, target other bikes (which sounds bad since by taking up front realty, others can't chain there, but that's just how it is).
Sure thing.
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I have the older version of this light.
It has seen over 7,000 miles of use, all sorts of weather conditions , and is two and a half years old now. It' still working although the USB port cover came off and the charging cable needs to put it and wiggled to get it to charge so I'm not expecting to get much longer out of it.
For the $15 I paid, it's been great value for money.
I was very pleased with [these guys!] (https://www.amazon.com/Dash-350-Micro-30-Combo/dp/B013FIYP8G/ref=sr_1_7?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1481479796&amp;sr=1-7&amp;keywords=cygolight)
if you want something cheaper I could suggest front and [rear] (https://www.amazon.com/Blitzu-Rechargeable-Intensity-Accessories-Flashlight/dp/B015IEJ0GC/ref=sr_1_18?s=sporting-goods&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1481479840&amp;sr=1-18&amp;keywords=bike+light)
Here! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B015IEJ0GC/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
these bad boys! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=s9_acsd_top_hd_bw_b2aF2gd_c_x_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-4&amp;pf_rd_r=8H99BVX2Q3WSATVFTJW9&amp;pf_rd_t=101&amp;pf_rd_p=d38a9968-bfb0-56d9-b053-93ceabef104b&amp;pf_rd_i=2367799011
Seat Post
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00
On the Pannier i am not sure of the brand. I got it awhile ago. Ill check.
My rear light of choice has a very fast blink rate--seizure fast--so the problem of it being off half the time isn't a problem.
This one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Has two blink settings, one of which is disco-fast. There'd be no way to look my direction only when it was between blinks. In fact, if you could look at a rider only when a blinking light was off, I'd call that 'pulsing' and not blinking. I'm also not sold on the idea that it will cause a problematic distraction. The point of a blinking light is to distract--to distract that driver away from their phone call, wandering mind, etc., and get their attention on you.
I personally haven't had a problem when I've been driving or riding and seen rapidly blinking lights--and I notice them faster.
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.
or MSR Pocket Rocket and Toaks 750ml pot
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.
I've been using this one for quite a few years, and I love it! Really awesome small solution with great replacement parts for the whole unit. It's another pump that a lot of people swear by (including myself, but I am fallible like the rest)
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1395611696&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=topeak+road+morph
I carry this bad boy around and use it exclusively as my bike pump. It's been a great investment. http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=pd_sim_sg_8
Just keep in mind, if you get a small pump to carry with you (so you can pump up your extra tube if you get a flat) make sure it has a flexible cord so that you don't break the stem on your tube. This one is good.
Sounds like a bad pump. I've never had a foot pump that worked well. Schwinn stuff ain't the greatest either I have found. My favorite floor pumps are Specialized, and my favorite pump to carry on the bike is the Roadmorph.
A good U-lock is kind of the gold standard for security. Chain locks and cable locks have to be super hefty for me to trust them. Also, learn to lock it properly. Wheels can also be stolen. Getting skewers that are not quick-release isn't foolproof but it does add some security.
You likely won't need the socket wrench combo, unless your wheels are bolted on with hex nuts. Otherwise, a patch kit and a bike multitool will cover 95% of your on-the-road needs, plus a pump. It's not the smallest option but I'm a big fan of the topeak road morph. I also carry tire levers and a normal (non-combo set) 5mm allen wrench, since it's the size I use most.
One of the tricks to winter riding is to ride through the shoulder season so you can gradually work your way down into lower temperatures and figure out your layering. Much easier than going from summer riding to commuting at 5 below zero.
Sure, on Amazon the budget options are https://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ and https://www.amazon.com/Panaracer-RiBMo-700-Folding-Tire/dp/B01GQWHIIW/?th=1&amp;psc=1 ($100 total), but if you have more money to spend the other parts I mentioned are worth it.
Anyone have any good recommendations on pumps with built in pressure guages? I'm currently looking at the following: http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS?ie=UTF8&amp;coliid=I2WU21EIVSXT6V&amp;colid=17NALENO65NI8
Would love any input.
I use this one.
http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Road-Morph-Bike-Gauge/dp/B000FI6YOS/ref=pd_sbs_sg_5
Had it for three years and it will works great.
When you say "Trails", do you mean singletrack loose dirt bike paths, or more along the lines of fire roads, hard packed dirt with a bit of gravel?
If the latter, I think your "city tires" will probably do just fine. Even if they're full slicks (which I suspect they aren't), simply letting some air out of the tires will provide the control you need.
On the tire's sidewall you'll find a max PSI rating. For the road keep it near it's maximum for rolling efficiency. Probably anywhere from 60 to 85 depending on the tire they put on. Lower it to 45-50 for dirt. You'll be surprised at how well the bike handles.
But ChimpStyles, you ask, What if I want to ride 5 miles on the road to the trailhead and back? Won't that suck with the tires deflated? Get yourself a portable pump replies the ever stylish ChimpStyles. You'll want one as part of your toolkit if you get a flat. I like the Topeak Road Morph G. Ask your local bike shop for help if you don't know how to change a flat, I'm sure they'll help.
Thanks ChimpStyles, you're the best! cries monkeyfunky.
And they all lived happily ever after.
If you are going to be riding some more serious / technical / whateveryouwanttocallit trails, then some knobby, dirt-specific tires would be of benefit. In that case, if you can afford a second wheelset I would do that. Tell the shop you what you want 'em for and they'll help you pick out a good set. That will be way cheaper than buying a different bike. You can get a good wheelset with tires for ~300-400 vs. 600-tothemoon for a decent mountain bike.
Have fun on the bike.
Well, I haven't used it but this one has four stars on Amazon.
Yeah sorry I forgot about your no brazon / p-clamp requirement.
They have a lot of options. I chose the Explorer rack which was much lighter than my other two rear racks.
I am considering buying one of their Beamracks for my road bike without the side frame add-on so I can use my bag for weekend rides as well.
Some other things I considered were not as functional, were more expensive, but looked much better. They don't exactly match your requirements, but maybe they'll give you some ideas.
The one I had before the Topeak one was a Racktime Wall-it with a Snapit rack. I really like it, but I just needed to carry more stuff. The Snapit system is nice and works with the Ortlieb trunk bag as well. I got it really cheap on Sierra Trading post. You can even buy the Snapit adapter by itself to make the system work with any bag you like.
Hope you find something that works well for you.
They're super common, and shouldn't be a big deal to find. If you do have trouble, there's always amazon.
I've got the Topeak MTX Explorer - Note if you have disc brakes get this one instead
and Topeak MTX EXP with zip down panniers
The bag slides into the track on top of the rack and snaps in place. Panniers fold up into the sides of the bag when not in use. Total cost for both, about $130.
On my old steel touring bike that came with racks I use Swiss army bread bags as panniers. They look nice, and are cheap!
There's a couple of options to mount the rear rack clamps that clamp on to the seat stays Portland Design Works Payload and Loading Dock Rack Hardware Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A91JIJE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_M2HjzbYR6HWSQ
Or a seat post adapter Sunlite Bicycle Rack Seat Clamp, 34.9mm, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0014GI9RK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_s9HjzbFRCPMTC
As far as which one to buy there's a bunch of decent ones in that range I've used this one on a bike for years with one problem Topeak Explorer Bike Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FIE3WI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_9-HjzbZFWZTYE
Axiom also makes done good ones in that price range.
what should you know about saddle bags? Buy a topeak MTX quicktrack rack and the expandable EXP bag This system is too amazing to describe. Small bag for short trips, unfolds into full pannier setup. Securely fastening it to your bike in under 10 seconds is a dream compared to conventional veclro/bungee systems. Both of these together will be over your $80 budget for your helmet/lock/bag but it's well worth it. I'll never use another bag/rack again. The rack is also lighter than the cheaper rack I was using before.
Explorer Rack Without Spring, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FIE3WI?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
That’s the rack that you have to order separately
I have this Topeak rack on my commuter bike: http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-63107030-Explorer-Bike-Rack/dp/B000FIE3WI
I particularly like this Topeak trunk bag that you can easily slide on and off the rack:
http://www.amazon.com/MTX-Trunk-rigid-molded-panels/dp/B000ZKHN50
I commute daily with a Topeak Rack + Trunk Bag. I fit my clothes, lunch, and 15" Macbook. Trunk bag slides off and has shoulder strap to carry it around.
$120 for both is well worth it. Skip the beers for a couple weekends and get one
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FIE3WI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B000FIE3WI&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=dealstoponlin-20&amp;linkId=2JAH4AZ7ZJYSADXV
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ZKES0S/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B000ZKES0S&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=dealstoponlin-20&amp;linkId=E5J7UOMYPKLW7FO6
Rack is Topeak Explorer and the bike has eyelets for the rack to mount on
Depending on what you're travelling with, you could look into a bike rack and detachable bag.
I use this rack and this bag.
Thanks! Here’s the link: G-shock DW9052-1V Men's Black Resin Sport Watch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000GAYQLI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9ciiAb5KCQCWY
If you plan on heading into EM, something preferably easy to hose off with soap and water during/after a shift. I prefer G-Shocks. They are rubber, super durable, easy to clean, and $40-$60.
https://www.amazon.com/Casio-DW9052-1V-G-Shock-Stainless-Digital/dp/B000GAYQLI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1465945070&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=g+shock
You're probably thinking of Casio G-Shocks. Versions with altimeters and compasses tend to be more expensive ($200-300) but there are plenty that come in around $50 with chronograph, time, second time zone, etc. functions.
https://www.amazon.com/Casio-GD100-1BCR-G-Shock-X-Large-Multi-Functional/dp/B0049HSJ76
https://www.amazon.com/Casio-G-shock-DW5600E-1V-Shock-Resistant/dp/B000GAYQKY
https://www.amazon.com/Casio-G-Shock-Quartz-Resin-Sport/dp/B000GAYQLI
The G-Shock is not expensive but is considered an iconic brand in horological history, for this reason it has its own cult following (deservedly so.) Quality-wise it's also going to just straight up last a long time compared to the cheapo G-Shock knock-offs that try to imitate its looks.
The Timex Marathon and Ironman are alternatives that are also solid and well-made, albeit without the G-Shock's enthusiast following:
https://www.amazon.com/Timex-T5E901-Ironman-Classic-Black/dp/B07K7YBPR6
https://www.amazon.com/Marathon-by-Timex-Full-Size-Watch/dp/B01I9PVL5U/
Yep sport watch is what you're after but I think it's the budget that's the most restrictive.
G-shock!
I've had a Casio G-Shock Classic for years, hasn't failed me yet. Has an easy to use stopwatch and timer, and illuminates for night flying. It's a little bulky though.
I'd recommend against an analog watch, they can be harder to read in turbulence. Digitals are much easier to read at a quick glance, where analogs can lead to one or two minute errors unless you take a close look at the watch.
Seiko 5 is the only mechanical option here, but I'll skip hyperlinks because others already mentioned Seiko 5.
Here are my top quartz choices that you should consider:
http://www.amazon.com/Timex-T49905-Expedition-Rugged-Leather/dp/B0083XFHIG/
http://www.amazon.com/Casio-DW9052-1V-G-Shock-Stainless-Digital/dp/B000GAYQLI/
http://www.amazon.com/Casio-Edifice-Measures-Seconds-Analog-Black/dp/B005S102AY/ref=sr_1_3?s=apparel&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1422601385&amp;sr=1-3
Really need help with this decision.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GAYQLI/ref=pe_329620_29555830_email_slvf_ih
Bike Shorts with a Shammy and a tube of Chamious Cream. Properly adjusted seat and just getting used to it again.
Chamois Cream - https://www.amazon.com/Chamois-Buttr-Original-8oz-tube/dp/B000HZGTUS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1469736624&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=chamois+cream+cycling
Bike Shorts - https://www.amazon.com/SANTIC-Cycling-Shorts-Bicycle-COOLMAX/dp/B013RB09B8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1469736650&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=Bike+shorts
that will be a VERY large quality of life improvement.
Speed will come but what i started out doing and do now is i'll do what are refered to as Intervals (Fast riding for a set time) Slow riding for a set time. I do intervals through the week as not a lot of time but on Saturday I do a nice long 30+ mile ride and try to average 12 to 14 mph (started as try to maintain a 10 mph average). Sunday and Wednesday are my rest days, although i've recently started riding on Wednesday nights just for a short jaunt around town.
Wow...way to ruin my day with that reality check on the Sawatch. I fixed that. The price I pay to sleep toasty warm...
Your tips are great! I remeasured my foster can and it came out to 1.6oz so I'm good there.
I'm definitely eyeing the Nitecore and litesmith knives.
I guess I'll have to make a call on my chair. Yes it's comfy and actually helps a lot to maintain a clean camp especially in dusty/muddy places.
Definitely look at this. I used it when I started bike touring but it works well for running/hiking as well. Doesn't sweat off easily. I haven't used it on a multiday trek yet but for long distance day hikes its worked well.
Thankfully I don't run into chaffing issues too often, but Paceline Butt'r is the best thing I've found. It is seriously amazing. I go out on 3+ hour rides in spandex and have no worries when I use it. You can pick up small 1 time use packs at most cycling stores.
All you really have to do is rub some on the skin and that's it. Stuff is amazing.
Even then, do it a couple of times in a month... And your butt adjusts. Also... I butter the butt when going over ~40-50. Makes a huge difference. Butt feels like it was ridden on 40 miles at 80.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000HZGTUS/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_i_AwaNDbNT6ARRJ
Make sure you get some Chamois Butt'r if you do. I've got some some terrible friction burns on my junk. Terrible, terrible, terrible. Like, get in the shower and it feels like i set my stuff on fire.
The padding in the chamois does help keep your butt/gooch/taint from dying on long runs though and the breathe-ability of the Lycra keep you nice and cool and dry.
Nobody ever replied? Weird. Anyway, the deodorant tip is just that, if you put deodorant on your inner thighs where they rub together, it'll make them chafe less.
Basically you have to take one of two routes to keeping your thighs from chafing - keeping them dry, or using something that lightly lubricates the skin. For the former, baby powder and I guess deodorant work, and for the latter, there are all kinds of anti-chafe products (like BodyGlide and Chamois Butt'r), as well as Vaseline and Neosporin (particularly good if you already are chafing).
I used Quick Spit for a long time and it worked great for me. https://www.amazon.com/Jaws-Quick-Antifog-Spray-1-Ounce/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1484692874&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=spit+anti+fog
$20?
seems like this would work http://www.amazon.com/Jaws-Quick-Antifog-Spray-1-Ounce/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1407557505&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=anti+fog+for+glasses
This stuff is awesome
How do you all keep your full face visor from fogging when you breathe? I just tried bar soap and had pretty good results. I'm considering picking up some anti fog spray to try out.
They make sprays that work really well. Like this one,
http://www.amazon.com/Jaws-Quick-Antifog-Spray-1-Ounce/dp/B0012Q2S4W
You can get a bottle at a local scuba gear shop. As you can imagine divers also have this problem.
Have none of you seen this?
http://www.amazon.com/Jaws-Quick-Antifog-Spray-1-Ounce/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1374069784&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=anti+fog+spray+for+goggles
I use this on my glasses and camera lenses.
Anti Fog Spray... I usually spray my glasses before I go to a bar (where it's incredibly humid when u step back inside)
Im debating to try one of these.
https://www.amazon.com/Jaws-Quick-Antifog-Spray-1-Ounce/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=anti+fog+spray&amp;qid=1556122997&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-3
Edit: Just a heads up. I posted a question to make sure it is safe first. Ill probably forget to update this, so here is a link to check the outcome: https://www.reddit.com/r/OculusGo/comments/bgwp2z/is_this_safe_to_use_on_the_go_lenses/
Looks like it has a sh*tload of reviews:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=twister_B00PDE1TO4?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Great, thanks.
Yes, it is $30 per visor vs a $6 spray.
As other posters mention it is also terrible for night riding.
Maybe check out
VR cover
https://vrcover.com/product-category/gear-vr-cover/
or VR padding
https://vrpadding.com/
For the fogging you could try anti fog wipes
https://www.amazon.com/Clarity-Defog-Anti-fog-Reusable-Wipes/dp/B002BG588K?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00
or spray https://www.amazon.com/Jaws-Quick-Antifog-Spray-1-Ounce/dp/B0012Q2S4W/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;ref_=yo_ii_img
or heat up the lenses a bit before using the Gear VR with a hairdryer.
I use JAWS Quick Spit Anti-fog! and it works
I use a non-hazardous anti-fog spray on my squash goggles called Quick Spit ($6 on Amazon) specifically made for safety glasses, snorkeling, skiing, welding, etc. I share it with the other players at my gym and most folks say it works pretty well. A few people say it doesn't make a difference. For the cost of two squash balls, it's probably worth a try.
In addition to the spray I also wear a headband, avoid wiping the goggles (which makes it easier for water to condense), and wear them slightly down my nose instead of pressed closer to my eyes. I also sweat a lot and practically never have fog issues unless I stand still for awhile.
You have two options:
I used to put a tiny bit of dishwasher soap on my motorcycle helmet visor for the fog and later heard/noticed this damages the visor a little bit. I switched to this product and been using it on both the visor and my DK2 lenses as well: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0012Q2S4W/
https://www.amazon.com/Intex-Challenger-1-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=sr_1_3?s=outdoor-recreation&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1469334217&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=inflatable+kayak&amp;refinements=p_36%3A1253557011
Girlsplaywow is a jerk
You are too kind generous stranger.
Maybe you're not a jerk like you say... maybe. :)
Possibly Both?
If not I'm not picky if you want to pick and choose from my list instead.
Not really answering your question, but if it's just for casual use and not trying to do anything hardcore, or cover a lot of distance, I'd recommend looking into an inflatable kayak.
They take about 5 minutes to pump up, can be used on minor rapids (not too rocky and sharp), handle okay, and best of all, they can be packed down into a bag that fits in any car.
This is the one I purchased. It's holding up pretty well so far. I personally don't fish much but I'll go to Leesylvania State Park with family members to fish from time to time.
Intex Challenger
Here's a pretty good one for only 70 bucks. I'm almost tempted to get one lol.
http://www.amazon.com/Intex-Challenger-1-Person-Inflatable-Aluminum/dp/B00177J4JS/ref=zg_bs_3414281_1
LOL that movie has made me salty as all hell. My favorite hike was dry creek falls because you hardly ever saw anyone else there on a hot day (they all used to go to Oneonta because you wade through cool water the whole way or one of the ones that has lots of streams to dip in and stuff) and it's RIGHT at the bridge of the gods, where the movie ends. GUESS WHICH TRAIL SUCKS NOW.
The kayaks are made of a really thick vinyl, much sturdier than I expected (I share your inflatable mattress pain, can't tell you how many of those we've gone through out camping). We haven't gone over any sharp rocks as far as I know but I have been dragged along the bottom of Scappoose Bay for about 60ft and didn't so much as lose the rudder. We have used them in rivers too, they're great. There are reviews of the particular model we bought (with picture evidence) by people saying they take their dogs out in them no problem. We love ours, we only have a small car with no roof rack so it's ideal for us to be able to toss them in the trunk and go. :)
>As the title states, I currently live in an apartment with very limited storage space for a kayak. My options for storage - in order of least feasible to most feasible - are my apartment (safe but up 3 flights of stairs), my apartment building's shared basement (half a flight down, but can be accessed by all tenants), the "backyard" area behind my building (no stairs but can be accessed by anyone), and my car (crossover-sized).
>
>I have been using this inflatable for the past year and a half, and it's been a great solution to my storage problem since I can keep it in the trunk of my car/my apartment. I used it about once a week last summer and it's held up decently well. I'm looking to upgrade it to a non-inflatable, though, as the tracking is pretty bad, I can't take it to any larger lakes, I get nervous about popping around rocks and branches, etc. My tandem K2 is also kind of of impractical because I use it by myself 90% of the time, which makes the tracking even worse. (I originally bought it to use occasionally with friends, but I've found that I like taking it out by myself a lot).
>
>I've been looking at the 8 ft Pelicans and Sun Dolphins, since they're short and light. I know that they're supposed to be pretty shitty, though, and I'm open to spending more than they cost. Another option could be to get the one-person version of the same inflatable which hopefully would have slightly better tracking. The other thing I've considered is buying a modular kayak, but I was really hoping on staying under $500.
>
>Would it be possible to get a hard kayak with these limitations or do you think I should just stick with my inflatable? Are modular kayaks really worth the cost? Thank you!
I bought inflatable kayaks last year, best purchase I've made in a long time. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00177J4JS/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1523382383&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&amp;keywords=Inflatable+kayak+intex&amp;psc=1
I have [this kayak] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00177J4JS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1) from Amazon. It's ~$60 and works pretty well, just annoying to inflate and deflate. Pretty compact though
I got this. I'm a beginner and it looks like a nice, inexpensive way to get into kayaking.
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00177J4JS/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1480291198&amp;sr=8-4&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&amp;keywords=Intex
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.
Topeak Joe Blow Sport II Floor Pump
This one has lasted well for me, gets up to road bike pressures, and comes with attachments for balls and mattresses.
The Lezyne Steel Floor Drive Pump might be more of what you are looking for.
I bought a Topeak on sale at my LBS for around $25 bucks 2 years ago, and have never had a problem. It's got great reviews and seems fairly solid.
I have that same pump.
About half of each pump motion leaks out of the head instead of into the tire. Seems it blew a seal constantly pushing my tire to 110 psi.
I bought this one on Amazon this week to replace it. Not sure how I feel about that one... fighting to get the presta head to open the valve on my tire sometimes.
If your bike pump is shrader you will either need an adaptor or you could just buy a floor pump that does both valve types. Something like this.
On Amazon.com the Most helpful Customer Comment for the Topeak Joe Blow Sport II Floor Pump at the top of the page has only two stars:
>186 of 191 people found the following review helpful
>cheapo materials
>By iiigoiii on June 17, 2011
>there's a couple of problems with these pumps, as other reviewers have pointed out for this pump and the original sport.
>- the head can be difficult to get a seal with, especially on the presta side. it may take several tries before being able to get air to flow,
>- the dual head is large, making it difficult to get onto smaller wheels with closer spokes,
>- the hose material is a cheap plastic, not rubber - it quickly starts to crack wherever it's bent (near the outlet and where it's stored over the handle) and soon blows out.
>their support company, todson, refuses to warranty the hose even though it's a material defect. instead of paying them a third to half the cost of a new pump, get 3/16" fuel line from your local auto parts store. fits perfectly, will last a lifetime, and only costs about two bucks!
This review, and the 186 people who agree with it, gives me cause for concern, particularly with the small Brompton wheels, hence why I am on here looking for input. :-)
So, I have that same pump but I've never used it on any tire that already had air, it's always been as part of a flat repair on the road. It might actually be normal, my floor pump doesn't register anything until I give it enough air pressure to get the presta valve to open.
I might suggest that you get a floor pump for your regular tire maintenance. Your arms will thank you. I've been very happy with my Topeak Joe Blow 2.
I like these shorts they are not that expensive and have lasted well over a year and going strong. My floor pump looks something like this but I can't remember the brand name. As far as tools you likely just need a screw driver and an allen key for the adjustments. There are some youtube videos that explain the process. You will want a work stand. <-- is the one I got. It is a little bouncy but it works and it was under $100 so I'm happy with it. You may want to throw in a pedal wrench while your at it.
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
I think this time around I want to try for a Skillhunt H03 in NW. Good luck all!
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
This community is growing fast!! Thanks for the efforts, Para!
I'm in for the Skilhunt H03!
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
Thank you!
skilhunt H03
[SELL]
Meepo 1.5 (less than 100 miles), comes with:
[ShredLights]
(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075KWYZZY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1) Costed $44.99
Nose and tail guard Costed $13.99
[Red tail light] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015IEJ0GC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1) Costed $18.37
[Longboard Tool] (https://i.imgur.com/adtDPzF.jpg)
[Extra trucks and screws from the recall] (https://i.imgur.com/MAcuYoi.jpg)
[Remote (no wrist strap, sorry)] (https://i.imgur.com/Wao1vfJ.jpg)
[Charger] (https://i.imgur.com/yolnbbV.jpg)
[Wall mount + 4 screws] (https://i.imgur.com/8yOyrHq.jpg)
I'm in the Bay Area (Mountain View). $450 OBO
Skilhunt h03
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 please.
I'll try for a Skilhunt H03
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HGHIAD8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_M4R3CbZR3YQEN
Thanks again!
I always wanted a good angle light, and this fits the price perfectly when you include shipping.
Thanks for doing this again mate! I’d choose the Skilhunt H03 please.
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.
For that price you won't be getting ultralight on the big 3: backpack, sleeping bag, and tent. Unfortunately those are the largest, heaviest, and most difficult to go light weight on a budget. The majority of the other items are pretty good UL gear. You can, for example, get a lighter titanium stove. It'll save you about 2oz and double the cost. Eventually the 2oz there and a few more oz here and there on a number of pieces of gear really add up so you may want to swap it out as you upgrade your gear over time. But for right now one in the price/weight range I suggested is really good ultra light weight bang for your buck.
That totals out at $365 and covers most of your bases of things you'll need to buy. Most everything else is going to be like soap, toothbrush, etc. which I'm assuming you already have. I really like the HikeLight 3-day camping checklist. You won't be able to get most (any?) of the gear on this list at your price range, but just make sure you have a comparable replacement. Yours will likely just be bigger and/or heavier than their suggested ones. http://hikelight.com/gearlist.html
Happy backpacking!
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
Hey, genius. Here's one for $43
Massive cost?
Body glide is something like $9 a tube, and that shit will last you several months. I use it when I run, and its great.
http://www.amazon.com/BodyGlide-BGCB-Bodyglide-Original-Anti-Chafe/dp/B005L8YVRO
As for cycling Chamois Butt'r is maybe $15 a tube on the high end, but again it will last you a few months if you use it in moderation.
http://www.amazon.com/Chamois-Buttr-8-Ounce-Skin-Lubricant/dp/B000HZGTUS
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.
Do you have an easy way to transport it? If not, a decent inflatable kayak might be a good choice. I recently picked this up for cheap and am enjoying it
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00A7EXF4C/ref=mp_s_a_1_sc_2?qid=1463769387&amp;sr=8-2-spell&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&amp;keywords=intex+inflwtable+kayak
That's on the cheap side, but for calm stuff it's fine, pretty comfortable actually. As for a life jacket, I would recommend the NRS brand, not too expensive but pretty well made.
I use the Origin8 classique. Fits just fine on a 26' fork, however you are going to need to change your front wheel from a quick-release to a threaded rod. Which might be too much of a PITA for touring.
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
Rack + Net
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.