Top products from r/camping

Hello! Southern Ohio'an here.

I'm going to speak to car camping, and camping in campgrounds. I know a lot of folks on /r/camping are more into back packing, but I'm more of a roll into a campground, setup, and have a few beers sort of guy.

Car camping is a lot of fun. We have a pop up camper that we tow behind our van. But a tent is just as good.

Look into some local state parks that have camp grounds. You can find them here. http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/

You'll definitely want to go scope out a campsite first. Like its already been mentioned, Ohio doesn't have a lot of land like out west, where you can just hike out and go camping. And, since your a newbie, I'd definitely stick to a state park campground to begin with. Before we stay at a local campground, we'll drive through and write down site numbers that we like. Then, you can book them online. I tend to look for private heavily wooded sites, where I have complete privacy from my neighbors. But, everyone is different.

Ohio doesn't have any scary animals like drop bears or snipes, really your only worried about skunks and raccoon. Raccoon like to get into garbage and coolers after dark. Usually I set a propane tank on top of my coolers so they can't open them, and either take my garbage to the dumpster at the camp ground before bed, or double bag it and put it in the back of the van.

There are no animals that are going to try to actively come into your tent, while you are in there. There's just nothing that aggressive in ohio. I believe the saying is "They are more afraid of you than you are of them." Skunks are about the same as raccoons, but they are a bit ballsier. I've had them come right up into our campsite while we're still up, and even walk right under my chair while I was sitting in it! DO NOT FREAK OUT. If you freak out, they'll freak out, and they might spray. If you don't freak out, they're just like cats. Just be calm, and go on about your business. As long as you didn't leave food sitting out, its no big deal, they'll get bored and wander off.

If you are staying in a state park camp ground, they will have showers at the bath house. There will be bath houses with toilets, sinks and showers. Works pretty much like at a gym. Generally I only get a shower if I'm out for more than 2 nights. Less than that, and I just change my socks and underwears and wipe down with some baby wipes.

We're actually considering a trip to Geneva state park soon, which I think should be pretty close to you. http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/geneva#reserve

Here is a pretty typical campsite that we stay at, at a state park - http://imgur.com/2zib5Jw You can see there is a spot to park, and then a nice shaded wooded area for you to setup a tent, a fire ring, etc. A bathroom was about a 100 yard walk away. In case you are curious, the orange tape is a boundary line for my 3 year olds. They know they aren't allow to cross the orange tape, so we can trust them to run around the site without going too far.

So some basic things you are going to want to bring -
A tent. For sure.

Sleeping bags.

A tarp to go under the tent.

An air mattress, unless you like hobbling around like an old man after your camping trip because you slept on tree roots and rocks.

A cooking grate. The ones they have on the fire rings at a campground are laughable. A nice chrome one is like $20. I think I have this one. http://www.amazon.com/Romes-129-Pioneer-Chrome-Plated/dp/B001ASDHU6

Firewood. You are going to need more than you think you will. I pack one of those large rubbermaid storage containers that an average person could sit inside of, full of wood for each night we're camping. One of those little bundles they sell for $5 at a gas station would last maybe half an hour. This is a huge mistake I see a lot of first timers making, when I'm camping. You are not allowed to cut down wood in ohio state parks. If you are caught, you will get fined. Don't risk it. I get a cord of wood delivered to my house for $60 from a local farmer that sells it.

Something to START the fire wit. Especially if you end up with green wood. Bring some kiln dried wood, like some 2x4s, and something to get that going with - some newspaper helps. Get the 2x4s burning, then add your regular firewood. I'm sure there are some folks on here that can get a fire going with 2 sticks in the rain, but when you have a hungry family sitting around staring at you while you are trying to make green wood light, it sucks.

Personal stuff. Deodorant, tooth brush, soap for the showers, sandals for the showers so you don't get athletes foot, etc.

A cooler. Gotta keep your food cold. And beer. Whats camping without beer?

Pots and pans, accordingly. Look at what food you are packing, and think about how you are going to cook it. An iron skillet might come in handy. Maybe a sauce pan. Don't overpack, here. Too many can be a pain.

When you are pack your food, Don't think just about main courses, but you'll want sides too. This is a mistake my wife always makes. We'll have chicken for dinner, but she never thinks to bring like...corn on the cob, or rice and beans, or SOMETHING besides the protein.

Water! Can't have too much water. Especially during the summer.

Can opener. My god, I've made that damn mistake too many times.

This isn't necessary, but fun - Pie Irons! http://www.amazon.com/Romes-1705-Square-Steel-Handles/dp/B000FNLXWG/ My wife will pre-cook sausage at home. Then for breakfast, I put an uncooked biscuit from a can of biscuits in each side of the iron, squish it out to cover the whole surface, then sausage, cheese and a raw egg. Put that over the fire, and 10 minutes later you have something that'll make a breakfast hot pocket go crying home to its mama. http://imgur.com/CgycHgI

Now, this is an investment, but a coleman camp stove is handy. That way you don't have to start a fire every time you want to boil some water or fry an egg. You can get one for $40 on sale at walmart, and they use little 1lb propane cylinders.

Chairs. Or something to sit on. We have a folding chair for each person.

Something to do. Snacks. Pack SMore stuff! Cards. Star gazing charts for after dark. Frisbees, foot balls, fishing equipment, whatever you want.

I love my Klymit. The thing folds up to the size of a Nalgene bottle and is way more comfortable than you'd expect. I'm 5'10, 190lbs and like to sleep on my side and sleep great on this.

Other alternative (which is decidedly NOT convenient and is bulky, but is insanely comfortable if you're going car camping or using it stationary in your apartment and don't need to lug it around) is getting a memory foam mattress like this. I pull this out when friends crash at my apartment and they have all raved about how comfy it is. It's also great for cold weather camping, since the foam is a great insulator. I had this one on a trip that got down to 37 overnight and it kept me super toasty.

I have owned an msr pocket stove for a while and loved it. When it went missing I spent a season without it because I was too stubborn to buy a piece of gear I just had to find. Well next season I decided to just do a ton of research and see if there was anything that was being sold for a fraction of the price but was still popular. That's when I found this. Do yourself a favor and start skimming through the reviews. There's a lot of them. There are things about it that could be better but hey for under 6$ I have used the shit out of this thing and have been thoroughly pleased.

Leegoal Ultralight Backpacking Canister Camp Stove with Piezo Ignition 3.9oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004U8CP88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_iRvRwb778K57W

Keep it simple at first. Find an easy loop (less than 10 miles so you don’t have to plan for water) near you. Alltrails is a good app that will help you start doing that.

There’s no need to start with car camping unless you already have the gear for that. Part of the fun of backpacking is gradually figuring out what gear you do and don’t need, what to bring, and what to leave behind. So release yourself to that journey. There is a joy in the ignorance of starting a new hobby.

That being said, your “big four” items are going to be a sleeping bag, tent, sleeping pad, and cooking system. For a cooking system, I would say an MSR Pocket rocket is absolutely the best go-to. That, plus fuel, and a lighter will be enough for you to get dehydrated meals made. I like to bring a measuring cup if I’m using dehydrated meals. That little bit of precision is really worth it.

To start fires at your campsite, you can put cotton balls in a plastic bag and soak them in isopropyl alcohol. Lint from your dryer also helps to start campfires.

Not sure what your budget is on gearing up, but absolutely avoid Walmart/Coleman brand stuff. Speaking from experience on that point.

You can find affordable, entry level stuff on amazon. A good starter tent for one person is here:

ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Tent https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BMKD1DU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_UG5QBb04ZP4E1

High quality sleeping bags that are warm and lightweight are going to be pricey, but you can find some inexpensive ones on amazon that will get the job done.

I really like the Big Agnes sleeping pad. Been using that for a while now. Also, Osprey backpacks are very much worth the price tag.

Not a meal, but the kids will love it if you get some cookie dough and a pie iron. There's almost no way to screw this up and it's fantastic. :) Makes good biscuits and stuff like that too.

I don't have the exact tent as the one you have listed under edit 2. But I have one very similar

Coleman WeatherMaster 10-Person Tent https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001TS8Q94/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0Xc9yb7V1YWX4

It's a nice tent, roomy, I can fit 2 queen size beds easily and have plenty of room in the middle. I love the door, makes it easy with kids around to keep the bugs out. However the tent is a pain to put up, you really need 2 people to do it.

I just picked up this 6 person tent. I shied away from the instant tents, I saw a number of bad reviews on these things saying they collapsed in high winds. Figured a normal pole tent wouldnt have that problem and all the reviews were pretty good on this one. I'm 6'2" and I can stand up straight in the center and walk with a slight hunch all around the perimeter.

Coleman Sundome 6-Person Tent https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004J2GUP4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Idd9ybACKV4FT

Edit: Just wanted to add the 6 person tent went up pretty easily 2 poles and a rain fly with a smaller pole and your done. Got it up in less than 10 minutes on my first try with a little help from my small kids. Probably would have had it up quicker without their "help"...

Personally, I grew up with my father rising with the sun to start the coffee percolating. For me, when I started building my own camping gear years ago, a percolator was just the logical (and nostalgic) choice. However, about 7 years ago my wife, then my fiance, saw a camping stove-top drip pot. It worked well for about two trips, and then something went on the inside and it stopped working all together. Back to the percolator we went. About 3 years ago, my buddy introduced me to French press coffee in general. As a huge coffee drinker, who drinks coffee black, I was always looking for the strongest, boldest cup of coffee and how to make it. I picked up two French presses, one for home, one for the camping box. My wife and I are both happy making coffee either way, and alternate as the mood dictates while camping.
That being said, percolating coffee, and using the French press, are what my wife likes to call a "fine art"with timing and how long you wait before pouring the first cup. An art that she insists I am horrible at, since she doesn't like her coffee to be a highly caffeinated mud as I do.

Hope this long, rambling answer helps! Happy Camping!

Woo! One of the best parts of camping: Eating :)

One of the easiest things to do is kinda like your apple idea; potatoes in the fire. Simply stab a raw potato a bunch with a fork / knife. Put it on a sheet of foil and drizzle some water over it, rub some butter on it, spice it if you're savvy and roll it in a few layers of foil. Toss it in the coals and rotate every now and then. It's ready when it's soft.

You can also do the same thing with a whole onion. Remove the woody core and replace it with a wad of butter (see a pattern? Heh..) and wipe whats on your hands around the rest. No need to poke or drizzle with water but you'll wanna add spices. Wrap this guy in a bunch of foil to prevent burns and toss next to your taters. Pull this out when it's squishy and enjoy.

Get one of these, we call 'em hobo makers.

Butter some bread on one side and set it off for later. Conscrapulate some fillings. Ham and cheese. Feta and spinach. Pepperoni, cheese and pizza sauce (Aka "The Classic"). Peanutbutter and jelly. Bacon and eggs. Pouch (tyson) chicken and franks hot sauce... Anything!

Set irons in coals, closed. Let em heat a bit. Remove; drizzle a bit of (hopefully bacon) grease on the inside and wipe with a paper towel.

Place your bread on the irons butter side down and quickly place the fillings on one side. Crimp closed and set back in the coals. Flip regularly and check. Thump the iron gently on a log to dislodge the hobo.

I've been using these things since before I can remember. They're a bit heavy but worth it. I'll drag my square one around and fry an egg in one side of it.

They even have waffle irons. Just drop some bisquick in there and you're off.

I myself have four. A square, a round, a belgan (square) waffle iron and a sausage iron (holds four sausages). Mine are all hand-me-downs that were made before I was born and have been in the family for ages except for the square one which I recently bought.

Only buy cast iron; don't get the aluminum ones with the non-stick coating. Do yer due diligence and season the iron ones. The aluminum ones will warp, the non-stick coating chips off, and they're made like crap.

Hope that helps :D

I was able to get this tent for $35 free shipping on special two weeks ago. I used it last weekend on another island camping trip and it worked very well, great mild-hot weather tent. It seems to be about $44 right now, but still a good deal for it. It is one of the easiest tents I have ever put up and it folds up nice in a carry bag.

I have gear for backpacking. To wit, this includes the following:

sleeping bag

tent

hammock - the explorer deluxe asym zip model

Nova stove

Venom stove

Cheap Amazon stove

Coleman stove - for camping with the gf

Small, field serviceable water filter

Backup, Fire, Starters

An emergency blanket or two

An RD7 knife, which I can't link because I'm at work and it's filtered...
A folding pruning saw that you can buy at any hardware store, I think mine was $7
For a cook kit, I have nylon forks and spoons, a soup can to cook in(the venom stove fits inside it perfectly), if the gf is coming with I bring this cooking kit instead to go along with the big Coleman stove.

With my hammock, I bring what's called an underquilt. I can't link you to this because I made it myself, but it's two sheets of nylon material with mesh fabric sewn in between to make box tubes, then the box tubes are stuffed with goose down and the blanket is sewn shut. It's extremely light, fairly warm, and I tie it up to the bottom of my hammock to keep my backside warm in weather below 65F. In a pinch I can add one of my emergency blankets between the hammock and underquilt for extra warmth.

I also bring headlamps that have a red led and a white "high power" led. No flashlights or lanterns for me, they're too bright. I have a small, brightly colored dry bag that is full of first aid stuff and an assortment of odds & ends in my backpack's top pocket.

I also bring an old 35mm film canister with 6 dice inside and a tape-laminated copy of the rules for playing Farkle. With the 6 dice you could also play Yahtzee or several other dice games.

Where will you be camping? You may seriously need a bear bag if you're packing in a bunch of meat. How are you planning on running the rice cooker too?

As for the grill, I'm not sure if you want propane powered or passive so here's both. I've personally used both and they both work well.

Passive:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074N1W4G8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Powered:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KM5MDQH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o09_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The case the powered one comes with isn't great and by your text it sounds like you're leaning more towards relaxed camping (Which I would recommend for a first time.)

2nd Powered:
https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000020943NP-Classic-Propane-Stove/dp/B00005OU9D/ref=sr_1_4?crid=UAB015Q00MS8&keywords=coleman+camping+grill&qid=1556680435&s=gateway&sprefix=coleman+camping+g%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-4

Coleman usually makes pretty good stuff that'll last and this one has more burners.


I've never had a problem with packing meat in ice for camping. But I've never tried dry ice so I don't know the pros/cons but that might be overkill for a short trip. As long as your cooler is good and the weather isn't too hot where you're at it'll last multiple days.

Do you need any help with getting other camping supplies?

I am old and fat, I like a lot of squish, and most of the time we are camping in the desert.

We have the old version of the Neo Air. It is good for car camping and backpacking. Coupler kit

We also have an old Dreamtime for car camping that has served us well over the years. It has a built in coupler.

This year we upgraded to Exped MegaMat 10 LXW. It is well worth the money. We camp 2+ months out of the year. And this mat should last 7+ years. So for us it is a good investment.

The guys over in /r/CampingGear would get mad if I didn't mention the Klymit Static V. It is dirt cheep compared to everything I have recommended. And they make a Double V

The best thing you can do is go to a store and try them out.

One more thought, if you are car camping you don't need sleeping bags. A set of flannel sheets and a cheep comforter will keep you just as warm.

I recently purchased this tent and really enjoy it. I'll link to the 6 person tent that is 150ish however I got the 8 person and really enjoy the extra space. All the windows zip far down for lots of ventilation. However I got the 8 person which can be a little more expensive but really worth the extra space. When we were attacked by the rush of mosquitoes in the evening we had plenty of room to keep our bedding as is and still move our camp chairs and coolers inside the tent comfortably and hung out for an hour or two until it got dark and they backed off. Also setup and take down is super easy and fast. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004E4ERHA/ref=gno_cart_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

As others have mentioned, it will depend on what kind of camping he likes to do and what he already owns, but here are some of my favorite pieces of gear I've picked up over the years:
This little guy is a pretty good rechargeable lantern/flashlight with magnets so you can stick it to stuff and a usb output so you can charge other things with it.

I've had one of these for YEARS and I just lost it the other day. There was $200 worth of gear in the pannier that fell off my bike and I'm more pissed about that cup than the rest of the gear combined. It looks like they made it a little taller, which I do not like, but he may. There are several other brands that make something similar in both steel or titanium. It's not just a cup though...it will slip perfectly over the bottom of a nalgene, you can cook directly on a stove or fire with it, and you can pair it with the smaller jetboil coffee press or the guts of a standard bodum press and turn it into a french press. It's the exact same diameter.
A Sawyer can be an AMAZING if you're going to be anywhere long enough to pack water in. The squeeze bag it comes with sucks, but it has standard bottle threads, so you can screw it into a 2-liter bottle with the bottom cut off and it turns it into a gravity filter. Just pour more river/lake water into the 2 liter every minute or so and it will keep pouring clean water into your bottles. Also, you notice the weird skinny part in the middle? It's exactly the width of duct tape. You can wrap several yards of it around there.
EDIT: forgot some words

I generally think Coleman are a bunch of assholes, but I have this one which I've been happy with. The folding sides are kinda flimsy, but it's also pretty light. The 20,000 BTU burners are nice for cooking as well. The knobs are a bit touchy, but it's do-able.

It's probably not as nice as you're looking for, but for $40 bucks you can't really go wrong.

This one has treated me extremely well, being that I'm an ultra light fan, that it's comfortable enough, pretty sturdy, packs tiny, and the price is great: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007RFG0NM/ref=abs_brd_tag_dp?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Water purity concerns are for bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and chemicals/contaminants. In the past, I've used a Steripen with good results. It protects against the first three dangers. I recently bought one of these but haven't tried it yet:

http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FA2RLX2/ref=oh_details_o07_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It only protects against bacteria and protozoa. If you're going to the Boundary Waters, I think that would be your primary concern. When I did my portaging trip there, we drank untreated water from the middle of lakes. Probably a baaad idea, but my point is that the water quality is generally pretty good there.

Also, the 98% DEET might melt synthetics... so be careful about what you spray it on.

You could also check out Permethrin clothing treatment products. This stuff works great to repel ticks and mosquitoes, just make sure you follow the directions.

For another option, I've had good luck with ThermaCELL clip on repellant.

Coleman tents are fairly decent for the price range, although i think the smallest they do is a 2 man tent ( http://amzn.to/2gCzpIR ), however a 2 man tent would be ideal for 1 person if you want a bit of breathing room/ space for your bag/other equipment.

on the other hand, if you are looking for something super compact and lightweight for backpacking there are fairly decent too: http://amzn.to/2gQoJE8

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&qid=1342450734&sr=8-1&keywords=dry+bag

I actually own this set myself, they work great! :)

You are better off focusing on bundling up and getting a nice sleeping bag.

You can go with a Mr Heater Little Buddy, but you have to accept the risk of possibly dying. The propane heaters also give off a ton of moisture so you're going to wake up to a rain forest in your car.

If you want to go upscale you can get a Webasto parking heater. Popular in places where you want to pre-heat your car before you get in. Expensive.

You guys sound like you're bragging about setup time so let me tell you about this dude.


I don't backpack camp so the weight isn't an issue, and most importantly my wife wanted something that she could easily help with if I wanted her to come camping with me.

I have a Fiskars axe and a Fiskars wood splitter.

Both look identical to the Gerber, just orange.

They are quite light and are very strong. They call them unbreakable.

The reviews are amazing as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-7850-X7-14-Inch-Hatchet/dp/B0002YTO7E

I have and use the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1p, and it works great. It seems to fit your price range and requirements, as well.

Blue closed foam pads are classic. They are cheap and indestructible. They insulate a little and provide a tiny amount of comfort.
I recommend trying one to see if it works for you. Even just sleeping on your floor at home 1 night with it.

• https://www.mec.ca/en/product/4003-969/Blue-Foam-Regular-Sleeping-Pad
  
  ----
  Personally I prefer inflatable sleeping pads. They are more expensive and less durable, but they are more comfortable (and many insulate better).
  
  This Klymit option is relatively cheap for an inflatable. Check it out:
  
  
• https://www.amazon.ca/Klymit-06SVGR01C-Camping-Mattress-Green-Grey/dp/B007RFG0NM
  
  or the insulated version if you plan to sleep below 40F/5C.
  

Bed tents are a pain in the ass and insanely expensive. Plus it removes the best part about a pickup truck: putting shit in the bed.

I would just start out for the two of you getting a standard tent and air mattress. Maybe $100 total investment. Use that a couple times and as you learn what works and doesn't work for you, you can upgrade.

I've personally changed my car camping setup 3 times in the last couple years. I just recently changed up to a smaller 6 person "dark" cabin tent so I can sleep in, and a cot. I've always used air mattresses in the past.

If you're wondering, this is my current car camping tent. Dark tents are kinda new on the market and having both dark and instant was a very big want of mine. There's nothing worse than the sun shining in your tent at 6am waking you up after drinking whiskey til 3am.

I was using this air mattress that I like a lot, but I thought I'd change things up a bit and try this cot out so I don't have to worry about electrickery.

As far as everything else goes? I just use a standard sheets and a pillow unless temps are supposed to be cold (below 50f) then I switch to a sleeping bag rated for 29f. Grab a couple $6 folding chairs from Walmart. Fatwood to start fires. Coleman campstove, and a cast iron pan.

If my campsite has power, I will use a small room heater in the tent. If your campsite doesn't have power, at least have a inverter on hand just in case you need power for something (air mattress?).

In terms of food? There's a million things you can eat that doesn't require refrigeration/cooler so don't go crazy thinking you need a $500 yeti to camp for a weekend.

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

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)

I use a Mr Heater Portable Buddy when I take my family car camping in cold weather. We use it to heat an REI Kingdom 6 which is a lot of cubic ft and it works fantastic. I know for sure one night it was below freezing but it stayed around 60F in the tent.

http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Heater-F232000-Indoor-Safe-Portable/dp/B002G51BZU

I highly recommend getting the adapter so you can connect it to a large propane tank instead of one the small ones.

http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Heater-Buddy-Series-Assembly/dp/B001CFWF5U

how do you define pure water?

don't water bottles become reusable bottles after yo drink them down?

why cant my tap water be filtered?

question 8, what type of water filter? the ones from question 7 where i had to decide which of two styles i like?

i use one of these. make something better and cheaper and i'll use that. http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP128-Filtration-System/dp/B00FA2RLX2/ref=sr_1_2?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1412024242&sr=1-2&keywords=water+filter

Percolator or dripper - This one. I talked to a Coleman customer service person but had no luck. It's just a 90* fitting that directs the water down to the filter basket. At this point I'll just see what can fit it from the hardware store, just have to be careful to get something rated for hot water. If I think about it later I'll post a pic.

This looks sweet for the price https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00TFY8Z54/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1492142643&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=tent&dpPl=1&dpID=41836oQ955L&ref=plSrch


Edit. This one looks a lil smaller but an easier set up
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004E4ERHA/ref=mp_s_a_1_23?ie=UTF8&qid=1492142815&sr=8-23&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=tent#featureBulletsAndDetailBullets_secondary_view_div_1492142923645


Edit 2. Maybe this one is what I'm looking for
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001TS6WWC/ref=mp_s_a_1_38?ie=UTF8&qid=1492142968&sr=8-38&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=tent

I have also heard great things about the $18 stove on Amazon from BRS

I bought a Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Carbon Steel Blade, Military Green, 4.1-Inch a few years ago. I use it for meal prep because it's fixed blade and about the size of a kitchen prep knife. The Amazon site shows its use for camping tasks, too.

EDIT - just saw this has been recommended a few times already. Must be good!

Assuming you are car camping, I'd suggest you get a camp stove similar to this one. That opens up so many more possibilities. Breakfast gets really easy (eggs, bacon, pancakes, french toast, etc.). Plus reheating pre-made things like chili, stews, etc.

I've been using this in my Coleman 8-person Instatent for just under 2 years now. I do spring and fall camping (low around high 30s/low 40s) and it has worked great. It'll go thru 1 of those little coleman tanks in about 6 hours, so I have to have one on standby if you want heat from bedtime to wake-up time. This particular tent is not air-tight, so even with everything zipped up and fastened shut, air can still slip in (ventilation.)

Yes precisely to keep the tent and hopefully occupants dry


Just looked and realized we have the six person:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004E4ERHA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485375534&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=coleman+6+person+instant+tent&dpPl=1&dpID=41nrOjJEC6L&ref=plSrch

You can buy a Sawyer Mini SP128 for not much more and get .1 micron filtration. Clean sip doesn't even list its filter specs on its website, most likely because it doesn't compare to more reputable manufacturers. Just because it's "the world's smallest", doesn't necessarily make it a smart purchase.

We have this: works great, but it is huge.

Coleman Camping Coffeemaker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001K7IDVU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_OzcozbZW67TBA

Otherwise we use the French press, it's a pain to clean all the time for 2 cups of coffee.

Or coffee tea bags, light weight, but expensive if you like to drink a lot of coffee.

We usually just resort to the French press.

It's one of these
It took about 3 weeks shipping, and I had to pick it up from the post office, but at that price it's pretty unbeatable.

They actually make a propane adaptor for these old stoves. Best of both worlds.
Stansport Propane Converter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004RDQT92/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Ppj2Bb3E24A1R

Here is what I think is the best stove for backpacking and it is $12.

https://www.amazon.com/BRS-Ultralight-Camping-Outdoor-Cooking/dp/B00NNMF70U


Add a fuel canister to that, a cheap pot, a mini bic lighter and a spoon and your kitchen is complete.


Rent the Big3 from REI (sleeping bag, tent, pack). Buy the Sawyer Mini water filter for $25 and use Smartwater bottles to store water. Take your existing clothes (no cotton) and use your existing shoes.

I assume your car camping, so weight dosent matter that much.

An advertised 2 person tent is gonna be 2 people "sleeping mat to sleeping mat" and no room for gear.

So I would recommend the coleman 6 person tent. Might be a little big for 2, but your gonna need the space if you want cots or an air mattress or something like that.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004E4ERHA

I have this coleman which is much cheaper than the one you list and works great.

have you ever used those tent warmers? e.g. something like this?

http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Heater-F215100-3800-BTU-Indoor-Safe/dp/B001CFRF7I/ref=br_lf_m_1001559521_1_3_ttl?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&pf_rd_p=1886020042&pf_rd_s=center-3&pf_rd_t=1401&pf_rd_i=1001559521&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=001WGCW137VXZNZR36C5

I have one of these I've used a few times. Super lightweight and gets the job done. http://www.amazon.com/UCO-Grilliput-Portable-Camping-9-Inch/dp/B000980JMW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1462917629&sr=8-2&keywords=portable+camping+grill

https://smile.amazon.com/Mr-Heater-F232000-Indoor-Safe-Portable/dp/B002G51BZU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482855391&sr=8-1&keywords=mr+heater+buddy

I have that one, rarely used but it's rated as indoor safe. YMMV, I expect a comment shortly stating I'm on borrowed time. If you have an electrical hookup just get a ceramic heater.

When is your trip? These tents go on sale occasionally. I got this six person Coleman cabin for $100, but right now it's selling for $130. If you can wait, I suggest keeping an eye on Slickdeal. Also set up a camelcamelcamel alert on Amazon.

Some people are very particular about their knives and what they use them for but I think that everyone should own a Mora. It is a very sharp knife that can be used for food prep all the way to just carving or whittling. The plus side is that they are light weight and they are cheap! Do yourself a favor and pick one up (it doesn't necessarily have to be the one that I linked).

Here’s the one I bought and I love it. It’s a little on the pricy side of them but it comes with a little repair kit and I’ve used it as low as 15-20F comfortably

http://www.amazon.com/10-x-Camouflage-Tarp/dp/B000AS2H7G POW $12 INSTA WATER PROOF.. but seriously, i wouldnt bother trying to fix a 15 year old poorly rated tent when you could get a new one for $50 that is better: http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Sundome-2-Person-7-Feet-5-Feet/dp/B004J2KDH0/ref=sr_1_1?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1342674424&sr=1-1

I have this and like it, especially for the price:

https://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Lynx-1-Person-Tent/dp/B00BMKD1DU

The vestibule is a pretty roomy space for a pack.

I'm an ultralighter and have been keeping an eye on this...

http://www.amazon.com/BRS-Ultralight-Camping-Outdoor-Cooking/dp/B00NNMF70U

Lightest in the world (less than 1oz) titanium stove, and only ~$16. Reviews on it sound pretty decent.

What are you planning to do with your axe? The one you linked to is described as a "felling axe," which means its meant to cut stuff down. To my knowledge, cutting down trees is not permitted in any public camping spaces. I do most of my camping in CA, and you are allowed to pick up deadfall in some places, as it reduces fuel for forest fires. If that's your plan, you might look into a splitting axe, which acts like a wedge and will be better for splitting logs than a felling axe.

If I'm car camping in the desert, I usually just take a hatchet like this one and use my tent mallet to drive the hatchet down the log. When I car camp in more forested areas, I'll take a splitting axe and a 8lb sledgehammer. If I'm backpacking, I take a knife.

For 2 adults and a kid car camping, I'd look for just about any 6 person tent from a major retailer. Coleman is probably a good starting point - I'd shy away from Ozark Trails, or other "store brand" types.

http://smile.amazon.com/Coleman-Sundome-6-Person-Green-10-Feet/dp/B004J2GUP4/ref=sr_1_6?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1397628106&sr=1-6&keywords=coleman+tent

Here's one for about $100, just the first one I saw on Amazon. (It looks like if you buy any amazon gear for $100 or more, you get 20 back, didn't know that was going on...)

You can spend a lot more than that if you want, but you don't need to.

I have a Gerber and a Mora that I like, though I would not baton(?) wood with either if that is a requirement.

Backpacking if you're just using it like 3 weekends a year? Naturehike

Car camping? Coleman 4 person cabin tent $84.

I personally used an 8 person cabin tent for over 2 years for just me car camping, it was nice having the room but it wasn't "instant". I recently downgraded to a 6 person instant cabin tent.

Hobo Pie Maker....Bread, butter, and filling into fire...then goodness in yer mouth.

http://www.amazon.com/Rome-Industries-1705-Sandwich-Cooker/dp/B000FNLXWG

Biolite is like the heaviest, most complicated and expensive stove on the market and for all the reviews (search reddit for reviews) it is a very niche product. I could never see myself owning one. I think it's niche is if you're going to be sitting in 1 place for a long time, with no access to sunlight and needing to recharge your phone every 2 days.


What are your needs for a stove. What conditions will you be using it in? Very cold weather or just warmer weather?


Here is a very inexpensive and ultralight canister style stove to give you an idea of what is possible: https://www.amazon.com/BRS-Outdoor-Camping-Portable-Ultralight/dp/B00NNMF70U

•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

Link to the tent, if anyone is interested.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J2GUP4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Mr. Heater F232000 MH9BX Buddy 4,000-9,000-BTU Indoor-Safe Portable Radiant Heater https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002G51BZU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_l3AxRC1yGOJWq

I have the hose attachment to hook it up to a 20lb tank but I just haven’t yet needed to as I have a stock of little green bottles to use up.

Fiskars X7 hatchet, link below. It has a hallow fiber handle which makes the hatchet light weight which is good for backpacking and doesn't tire your arm out swinging it continuously. The blade is as sharp as a knife. I cannot say enough good things about this hatchet!

http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-78506935-X7-Hatchet-14-Inch/dp/B0002YTO7E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420403107&sr=8-1&keywords=fiskers+hatchet

here is a similar knock-off stove for half the price you listed. I have this one and it works well.

I also have this to go with it (look at the related products for in-stock options).

This setup is ok for one person with the right kind of meals. For two+ people I bring a whisperlite with a larger cookset but I'll also mention that my most often and preferred vehicle is the canoe, so weight is less of an issue to me than a hiker.

Coleman Sundome 6 person tent:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004J2GUP4

Should give you plenty of room. We user the 4 person version in our Scout Troop (2 Scouts per tent) and they hold up remarkably well.

Uhh.. Since nobody else is helping, I will give it my best shot. On a normal day, the average reccomended amount of water per person will be 64 oz., or .5 gallons. This is a rough estimate for an average person. If you are larger, pack more. If you are smaller, pack less. Depending on the heat, you may end up sweating alot of the water out.

I would reccomend no less than .75 Gallons per person per day.

As far as containers go, something like this would probably be best. I think that stores like walmart have a similar option....

To purify lake water you have several options. There are a multitude of water filters that backpackers use to make drinking water safe. /r/ backpacking raves about this one in particular for its low price, easy use, and low weight. It should filter out bacteria and other nasty things in water.

Alternatively, water purification tablets can be bought to do the same thing. These will not filter out sediment though. They only kill bacteria.

Since this is car camping and the weight/size of gear is not as big of a concern, simply overpacking on water will do no harm. Just keep track of how much you drink as a gauge for next time!

I have this one. Really can't get any easier to set up and break down. Highly recommend.

Right? It sounds like a really bad idea to have a propane heater in a tent but you’d be surprised how many websites recommend it. This amazon one has a lot of recommendations but I’d be way too scared to try that.

This is pretty much exactly that tent but with a different rainfly sold separately.

Iodine is blegh. Takes a while to purify the water and leaves a taste.

instead get a
sawyer mini from amazon for 20 bucks.

Removes 99.99999% of all bacteria, up to 100,000 gallons.

Coleman Classic, parents have had it since I was a child and I'm still using it when I car camp with large groups 20+ years later.

http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-78506935-X7-Hatchet-14-Inch/dp/B0002YTO7E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427480283&sr=8-1&keywords=x7+hatchet

Doesn't include a referral link as in the article...

https://www.amazon.com/UCO-Grilliput-Portable-Camping-9-Inch/dp/B000980JMW/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1526397301&sr=8-9&keywords=backpacking+grill

http://www.amazon.com/Rome-Industries-1705-Sandwich-Cooker/dp/B000FNLXWG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1457730321&sr=8-1&keywords=camping+pie+iron

+1. Used that lotion + this for my clothes.

pop up ice fishing shanty:

http://www.amazon.com/CBI-Fishing-Portable-Shelter-Folding/dp/B006BCKE52

there are lots of similar models, search for 'hub' or 'pop up' ice shanty

plus a mr. heater little buddy:

http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Heater-F215100-3800-BTU-Indoor-Safe/dp/B001CFRF7I

https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000015167-Camping-Coffeemaker/dp/B001K7IDVU/ref=sr_1_4

Coleman sundome

https://www.amazon.com/Stansport-185-Propane-Converter/dp/B004RDQT92

I have one. It works but I will only use it in a pinch. I much prefer the white gas.

Coleman fuel

You can also covert them to propane to with this

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B004RDQT92/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1526354695&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=coleman+stove+propane+adapter&dpPl=1&dpID=31oZPdo4cnL&ref=plSrch

You can buy a little propane adapter that slides into these, instead of the normal tank. I keep it in mine. That way I can run it off Coleman fuel or propane.

Edit: here it is, Stansport Propane Converter

ALPS mountaineering lynx 1 person - https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BMKD1DU?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd

Permethrin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Permethrin) is what you want on your gear. Won't destroy it like DEET. Just be careful if you have cats or fish, it can kill them. Comes in a big yellow/black container at Cabelas, or probably whatever your local camping store is, or you can get it online. Still need to use DEET on your skin though. This page here has a good FAQ on the stuff: http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Permethrin-Clothing-Repellent-24-Ounce/dp/B001ANQVYU/

This is what I use

https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Heater-F232000-Indoor-Safe-Portable/dp/B002G51BZU

Camping and in my hunting blind

In a tent, I would really only use it to warm up in morning. Or periodically before bed.

I have a bunch of them - MSR pocket rocket, Kovea Titanium stove, 2 cheap ones off Amazon. Only difference is the name brand ones feel more solid. If I could buy and try another, it would be the BRS stove, http://www.amazon.com/BRS-Ultralight-Camping-Outdoor-Cooking/dp/B00NNMF70U


I also use the Kovea LPG adaptor so I can use propane cans with these stoves when car camping: http://www.amazon.com/Kovea-LPG-Adaptor-Small-Silver/dp/B00CFPISZW


Get one without an igniter, as they all go bad sooner or later. Just bring a lighter to light the gas.

Something like this could work https://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Lynx-1-Person-Tent/dp/B00BMKD1DU/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1523911276&sr=8-5&keywords=alps+mountaineering+tent

As for the water, you should be drinking a lot per day, so you need to have a water source. Be it that stream, or something else. A stream is more likely to have issues with water. So make sure to boil or purify.

The issue isn't really weight, but space. Even freeze dried stuff (which requires even more water) takes up a god amount of space.

As someone said above, maybe shoot for a rustic site, that has a short walk to get there. Then you will have closer access to your car in case of emergency.

Do you want to cook with filtered water? If so, these systems are not great. I really like this Sawyer filter, it's very versatile.