Posts Tagged ‘camping equipment’

Taking the Family Camping this Summer?

February 7th, 2010

Want to get your family involved in an outdoor activity where you can become closer to each other? Then how about considering taking up camping. If you are then make sure that each trip you go on together is a fun and enjoyable one by purchasing the best quality camping equipment that you can. Along with this equipment ensuring that you are going to be protected from the elements when away on your trip it will help to ensure that everyone involved only has good memories of the time spent outdoors together.

So which particular items are you going to need to buy before you head off on a camping trip? Below we take a look at the most crucial camping equipment items that must be purchased first.

1. Tent – Of all the items of equipment you will need when camping this is the most important of them all and you should be the first thing you buy. It is the place that not only will you sleep each night but also somewhere that you can go to should the weather turn bad. So make sure that the one you select is the type that will meet all your family’s needs and offer enough space for everybody to sleep in it.

When you are choosing a tent for your family camping trips this can prove difficult because there are so many different kinds to select from. However, if you are intending to move around a lot on your trips then select a tent or tents that won’t take up too much space and are light to carry. When it comes to tent styles you have a number of options available including the tunnel, freestanding, teepee, and dome and modified dome styles.

2. Sleeping Bags – Another very crucial piece of equipment to buy before you head of any camping trip with your family. However, there are certain things that you must take into consideration before you make your purchases. It is important that you make sure that yours is made from the right sort of material. Traditionally a sleeping bag would have been made from cotton and wool but to carry them is difficult as they are quite bulk and this is why those using light weight high tech materials are far better. As with the old style bags the new ones help to provide a good layer of insulation for your body and so ensure that its core temperature is maintained at all times.

3. A Backpack/Rucksack – After you have chosen the tent and sleeping bag now you need to decide what of these you will be purchasing. When it comes to this particular item of camping equipment make sure that it is one that provides enough room for all those items you need to take with you on your trip but will be comfortable when being carried. Ideally look for those that come with shoulder straps that are well padded and wide so that they disperse the weight inside evenly preventing stress being placed on your body.

Another thing you should do before buying this particular piece of camping equipment is to try several different makes and models of rucksacks out in the store. If you can ask them to put some items inside to add some weight as you can then see if the straps are going to be comfortable on your shoulders and you will find it easy to carry when walking.

Craigdon Mountain Sports have outdoor sports shops located around Scotland as well as an online shop where they sell all of their outdoor clothing, equipment and supplies. This includes their selection of walking shoes which come from a few high quality names such as North Face and Salomon.

A Camp Shower Tent Helps You Stay Clean and Private

January 8th, 2010

Among the negatives to camping is the comparative lack of acceptable bathing amenities – that is, if you don’t regard a plunge into the stream, river or lake as an appropriate bathing amenity. Of course, if you camp out at a well equipped campsite, you may not need to be concerned about things like an adequate camp shower tent. But in case you are planning on roughing it and will not have a camper or RV on hand, then there’s actually no option but to utilize a tent specifically designed for showering.

Rivers, lakes and streams are not recommended for washing due to the likelihood that the ingredients in your shampoo and soap will wind up damaging the flora and fauna in the area. Alternatively, a camp shower tent is a helpful piece of camping gear that will ensure added privacy as well as enabling you to enjoy cleaning up in a shower that is comparable in purpose and quality to what you’d typically see in a house in the city.

Essentially, a camp shower tent has a bag that’s filled with water and there is also a nozzle that is meant to serve as a shower head. You can get solar varieties that obtain heat from daylight, which is free of charge and a readily available supply of energy. It will heat the water so you can enjoy an invigorating shower.

There are also several decent camp shower tents which can be powered by gas or batteries that will warm up the water sufficiently to make sure that you get a nice, refreshing shower. Though these shower tents cost more, they are also a great deal more handy and you will get good value for the money invested. As well, the water will be heated a lot faster than it would if making use of a solar powered tent.

The shower is normally hung from the top of the tent and there is a valve that can be released to allow warm water to pour from a spout. There is a whole lot to be said in support of a camp shower tent, particularly when it comes to enjoying a nice hot shower in total privacy in the great outdoors.

There are a number of essential pieces of equipment that you’ll need before you head out to the campsite. A camping tent is one of the most important. Visit Camping Equipment Online for information on other essential camping supplies.

Where To Choose The North Face Backpacks That Fit The Journey You Will Be Taking

December 25th, 2009

If you are a fan of camping and outdoor adventure sports, you have likely heard of The North Face backpacks. These are popular with many people who spend time in the wild because they offer models which are well suited to different needs and uses. Whether you love camping, kayaking or even mountain climbing, The North Face backpacks make models which will suit your needs.

If you are shopping for The North Face backpacks, you will find that they are often divided by the volume they can carry. Smaller backpacks are often labeled as day packs and larger ones are listed as luggage or backpacks. You will find that the larger backpacks often have more external pockets and storage areas. This is because it can be a good idea to be able to access small items that can easily be lost in a large main compartment. The fact that The North Face considers this when designing their packs makes it one reason that campers and hikers love buying North Face gear.

Remember that the longer you will be in the woods, the larger a pack you will need. The North Face backpacks come in a variety of sizes and this is definitely something you need to think about. If you are going to be bringing a lot of gear with you and will be packing a large backpack, consider bringing a smaller day pack with you. Some backpacks have removable day packs that can allow you to bring a few items with you and not pack a separate day pack. The North Face backpacks come in sizes of up to 75L which can be great for spending a week or more in the wild.

When you are shopping for any backpack, you want to make sure that you look at the weight of the pack. This can be important if you are going on a canoeing trip or you are going to be hiking a great distance. This is because a heavier pack can tire you out and may make it impossible for you to complete your journey. If you are shopping for a backpack in person, try hefting it empty and think about how much it will weigh when filled with gear.

One of the nicest things about The North Face backpacks is that they pay attention to the way the straps are configured. They make sure that the straps are adjustable and that they are padded enough so that they do not cut into your shoulders. A strap which is too thin can do just that if the pack is fully laden. The larger packs also have waist straps which can transfer the weight from your back to your hips and this can make it easier for you to carry the pack long distances.

People often underestimate the importance of bringing a day pack. Rather than simply being added weight a day pack can make it much easier for you to plan smaller side excursions. Knowing that you can simply throw a few items in a day pack from The North Face makes it easier to plan and pack your main pack properly. If you pick a day pack in addition to your North Face backpack, you need to make sure that it has a place for you to put a water bottle. This is because moving through the woods is often very dehydrating and it can mean the difference between being comfortable on a hike and being miserable if you can simply slip your water bottle out and have a drink.

You want to make sure that the material that your backpack is made out of is as durable as possible. Heavy duty nylon is a great choice for the exterior of a bag. It can help repel some water, such as if you get rained on suddenly, and can be quite durable. If you are picking a larger backpack, you will want to make sure that the bottom is reinforced so that it does not wear. Remember that a very large pack can be quite heavy and may wear quickly if it is set on rough ground. As backpacks can be expensive, you want to make sure that this does not happen.

The North Face has committed itself to providing a line of excellent backpacks, laptop bags and day packs for the camper or urban warrior. If you love the idea of a durable and effective product, look for one of their packs today.

Get your perfect travel solution by purchasing The North Face backpacks today. There are lots to choose from and each that will fit your lifestyle and your finance. Visit http://thenorthfacebackpacks.com/ for more information.

Where to Shop for Camping Gear

December 23rd, 2009

If you’ve decided that you want to take the family on a trip to some of your state’s best nature trails or lakes, you’ll need to find the right camping gear to keep everyone safe and comfortable during your vacation. Here are a few stores and sites that may make your camping trip just a little more enjoyable.

Of course, you’ll need to find the right tent if you’re going to have an enjoyable trip. Even if you’re renting an RV, you may want to spend a few nights out of the vehicle, so check out what www.camping-n-gear.com has to offer. The Wenzel tent is one of the top camping gear items on the site, and this family-sized dome has a screen porch and can easily fit up to eight people. There’s a removable fly, along with a tub-style floor to protect you from the weather, and you can purchase it for under $200.

You’ll also need smaller camping gear, like sunglasses and watches during your trip, and you can shop from brands like Swiss Army and Nike on sites like www.rei.com, www.nextag.com and www.overstock.com. These watches are waterproof, and can handle a few bumps and bruises while you’re rock climbing or going on the hiking trail. You’ll also need quality sunglasses when you’re boating or operating machinery while camping, and you can count on brands like Oakley and Native Eyewear to give you UVA and UVB protection; the companies also offer sunglasses for children.

Whether you’re spending a night under the stars in the warm spring or summer weather, or are taking a trip to a campsite in the fall and winter months, there’s nothing like a great sleeping bag to give you a comfortable and cozy night’s sleep. You can purchase this camping gear from REI recreational store, or you can shop online at www.rei.com. Sleeping bag varieties like the Kilo Plus has excellent padding for the cushioning you’ll need outdoors, and the Expedition sleeping bag is filled with goose down to give you extra warmth and comfort.

Finding the right utensils for cooking while you’re outdoors, or have the right lighting devices should also be a priority. You can find outdoor stoves from companies like Coleman, makers of a 1, 2, and 4 burner stove that you can use at the campground to prepare all your favorites. You can also light the stove without a match, which makes for added safety. The propane lantern from Coleman will also be a big help when you’re preparing food for the family at night, or want to keep your camp space safely lit.

For more information on how you can find the best camping gear for your next trip, visit www.rei.com, for camping gear discounts and promotions.

Visit Camping Equipment Online for information and shopping on essential camping equipment.

The Camping Chair: A Survey of Styles

December 22nd, 2009

Nothing is nicer than spending the time at camp relaxing in the coolness perched comfortably in your personal camp chair. So, which camping chair is the best for you? Let’s take a survey of the various types of chairs and decide.

A Snugly Companion Chair – If you’re traveling by RV, then a love seat is a double chair that will serve you well on cool evenings in front of the campfire.

Enjoying the Breeze – Take a break in the shadows of a big elm with a hammock chair. You can hang this sort of seating from the branch of a tree or a stand. Most of these chairs include extras such as cup holder and footrest too.

Tough and Light – Another chair that serves the backpacker or hiker well is the butterfly chair. Manufactured with nylon, the chair can be conveniently toted as it’s less than a pound in weight.

A Preferred Camp Chair – A well-liked chair among campers is the quad chair. This chair is styled to hold up well in various types of weather and is manufactured to fit bigger campers too. Choose a chair with mesh and you’ll have a camping chair that will dry quickly after a summer rain. Not only that, quad chairs come equipped with accessories such as umbrellas too.

Adaptability – One of the folding camping chairs that can be readily transported is the portable deck chair. Use it for camping or at the beach as well as on your deck or porch. Whether used at home or while traveling, this chair offers versatility and convenience.

Rock Away the Moments – One of the newer additions among folding camping chairs is the rocking camping chair. Rock away the moments by the fire in this adaptable camping chair that supplies relaxation and is readily foldable.

A Practical Choice at Camp – Should your needs be practical, then the folding stool is styled for you. Although it doesn’t provide some of the extras of some of the other folding camping chairs with respect to coziness, it does supply a camper with a pragmatic way to regroup after a full day of activities.

A Well-Adjusted Chair – The lounge chair is a nice chair to have when you’re traveling on the road. With the lounge chair, you can recline at the beach in optimum comfort. Should you want a lighter weight chair, then you’d probably like a recliner. Recliners offer you the convenience of choosing up to five positions in which to recline.

The Backpacker’s Selection – If you like to backpack while camping or like such activities as picnics or sporting events, then a backpacking chair is the chair for you. That’s because it can be readily transported and offers a cushion for extra relaxation.

A Vast of Styles – If you’re searching the Internet for a camping chair, then you won’t be dissatisfied as there are a myriad of camp chairs to choose.

How to make the best Decision – Whatever type of chair you finally choose, you can’t help but find the experience at camp more pleasant by including your own personal seating on a camping trip.

No matter what type of folding camping chairs you’re looking for, be sure to do your research to find the best one for you. J. Forrester has been researching camping products for years, including digging up info on the best camp chairs on the market.

Tips For Purchasing Kids Sleeping Bags

December 3rd, 2009

Everybody was once a kid so we all remember what it felt like to have a sleeping bag either as a gift or we cried our way into letting our parents buys us one. Do you recall the warmth, the new kid’s sleeping bags smell, not to mention all the fun things we did with it. Kids sleeping bags is an important tool in growing up because this is where all hopes and aspirations starts whether it started as a slumber party, outdoors camping or just plain sleeping outside the house.

Buying the perfect kids sleeping bags is gong to take some meticulous thoughts organization but basically should be made of high quality breathable material that should withstand years of frequent wash and use.

Length of the kid’s sleeping bags is a major factor in buying one for we don’t want our kids sleeping curled up like a baby to get full coverage. Do check the labels for manufacturer’s description of how long the sleeping bag is.

Width dimensions matter besides the length of the kids sleeping bags. We all know that kids are playful by nature so we want them to have the fun they deserve while using it and the ease of movement while they are tucked inside the sleeping bag.

Not all kids are the same so before buying their sleeping bag, take the time to know what the child likes and what he doesn’t like. As for material of the kid’s sleeping bags, always think of comfort and ease of use because you do want them to grow up on their own. Kids sleeping bags can be either custom made, handcrafted or the all too easy purchase at the mall. Take into consideration the sleeping bags easy wash and wear features to say you some stress.

Not all kids are the same so before buying their sleeping bag, take the time to know what the child likes and what he doesn’t like. As for material of the kid’s sleeping bags, always think of comfort and ease of use because you do want them to grow up on their own. Kids sleeping bags can be either custom made, handcrafted or the all too easy purchase at the mall. Take into consideration the sleeping bags easy wash and wear features to say you some stress.

Kids sleeping bags may come with hoods or draft tube or collar to make sure they stay warm.

Safety is the topmost concern for any purchase of a kids sleeping bag whether its camping outdoors and indoors or for a kids slumber party so make sure that the material is flame resistant just to be safe than be sorry later on.

Cristina enjoys the outdoors and loves to write about the camping equipment that includes ultralight sleeping bags and an air mattress sleeping bag.

categories: sleeping bag,sleeping bags,camping equipment,sleep,bedding,children,camping,outdoors,home

The Beauty Of Owning A Down Sleeping Bag When Camping Out

December 3rd, 2009

Sleeping outdoors using sleeping bags have come a long way from the old rolled up cotton bed that is going to cause you major back pains or a lumbar problem. One of the major reasons why you go camping is that you and who ever you bring along with will bond and enjoy nature in its entire splendor.

A dependable down sleeping bag offers shelter from a bad weather, keeps you warm and a nice place to sleep in. Down sleeping bags comes in a simple blanket-style bag that folds in half and uses a zipper to close up, and is generally used for all occasion because you just curl or roll it up which saves valuable packing space. Or the so-called mummy bag wherein the sleeping person is wrapped in the down sleeping bag which is best used for extreme cold conditions because there is no space for cold air to come in contact with. They save more packing space because you just stuff it in the duffel bag.

Down sleeping bags can be an alternate for beds that offers warmth. There are 2 types of down sleeping bags which are the blanket style and the mummy bag that are both durable and dependable even on the worst cold weather. The blanket style down sleeping bags is for general use and for all types of weather, which can be folded in half with a zipper to tuck you in. You can just roll this up and stuff it in your camping bag. For extreme cold weather conditions, the mummy style is the best to use for the down feathers saves your natural body heat, so cold air will not pass through. Both types save you the all too important packing space.

Air out the down sleeping bags after each use and if possible turn it inside out, and set it out in the breeze and sun. Just keep the down sleeping bags as clean as possible to avoid frequent washing. When in use, lay in a pad or tarp to avoid soiling.

Since down sleeping bags are made from all natural birds feathers, they contain natural oils that keeps them fluffy and fresh. Avoid laundry detergents and solvents that are used by drycleaners to preserve the natural sebum. You can just hand wash the down sleeping bags yourself by using Woolite or Ivory flakes then just tumble dry on the lowest setting to dry. Don’t use fabric softeners for they will mess up the feather’s oily composition.

Laundry detergents or soaps used in dry cleaners carry harsh solvents that will strip away the natural sebum that the feathers have. The best way to care for them is to just do the washing yourself by going to a laundromat armed with woolite or Ivory flakes using a front load washer. Fabric softeners are a no-no and tumble dry on the lowest setting.

Cristina likes to write about her favorite outdoor equipment like rectangular sleeping bags. Visit her site for tips on purchasing girls sleeping bag.

categories: sleeping bag,camping equipment,travel,camping,outdoor activities,hobby

Convenience Meets Preparedness With a Crank Lantern

November 4th, 2009

Everybody experiences a power outage at one time or another. You may be reading a book or rotating laundry when, suddenly, you are sunk into a blackout situation. As you start stumbling around in the dark, you run for the candles and hope that there are some matches somewhere. The fact that you rarely use these items leaves you stubbing your toe and tripping over things trying to get a little bit of light.

However, you could prevent the situation entirely and have the lights back on in no time if you own a wind up lantern. These are useful mechanisms and are excellent for a variety of situations, including power outages.

When you’re ready to buy your first wind up lantern, you’ll find some basic features that are part of most of the models. First of all, the lantern is powered by LED lights. These types of lights don’t use very much electricity for the volume of light produced. There are some of the models that may have 6 of the LED light and give out a good amount of light. These lights are all powered up by the hand crank. You can have fifteen to thirty minutes of light for as little as one minute of winding the crank.

Also, just about all of these lanterns have additional survival and safety options; an AM/FM radio built into the device is the most prevalent. Usually, emergency beacons are included as well. A few have additional benefits like MP3 players or charging ports for cell phones. Although the wind up handle charges all of the models, a few are also equipped with battery power, which makes them even more convenient.

These wind up lanterns are an affordable source of light in emergencies, so having several on hand must makes sense. If you have regular power outages in your area, having a couple in your home makes sense. Obviously they are terrific to have along when you’re out camping or hiking, or any outdoor adventure. The nice thing about those with battery backup is charging them before you go anywhere and then you have no worries about running out of power. All it will take is a quick hand crank and your wind up lantern is up and running immediately.

Nobody enjoys thinking about the possibility of a disaster. Regardless, since they do take place, it’s best to be prepared for all circumstances. No matter why you need light, it will consistently be provided by a wind up lantern.

Whether you are in the midst of an emergency situation, about to explore the outdoors, or are simply dealing with a power outage, you won’t feel stressed about the prospect of having no light if you’re sure you have what you need to keep things lit.

Visit us at WindUpLantern.Net to discover the best wind up lantern and crank lantern!

categories: wind up lantern,crank lantern,camping equipment,emergency equipment,emergencies,lights,lighting,camping

Camping Chairs: A Variety of Styles for the Camper

November 3rd, 2009

If you like to camp, then camping chairs are furniture you wouldn’t even consider not buying. It all is contingent on what type of camper you are as to what kind of chair you’ll eventually pick. Therefore, one must take into consideration how large or small a person is and how he will basically transport the chair he selects. For example a person who likes to hike would generally not select the same type of camping chair as a fishing enthusiast. If you drive an RV, you no doubt can carry bigger load when it comes to such chairs versus someone who carries a tent and needs a lighter, more portable chair. There are a number of camp chairs for sale on the Internet. Let’s look at some of the various styles. You will undoubtedly discover a chair that meets your criteria with regards to your own preferences as well as design.

The Air Chair – If you’re prone to rest in the cooling shade of maples on a warm summer’s day, then you might like an air chair hanging from branches of maples to while away the hours in. Not only do these chairs come in a variety of colors they also resist discoloration and have been waterproofed as well. The chairs offer a cup holder and footrest to add to your comfort too.

The Lounge Chair or Lounger – Naturally, you can lounge in a number of ways and, as its name implies, a lounge chair can provide a good place to rest on your camping trip. Folding camping chairs of this kind are superb for resting anywhere as they fold out conveniently so you can recline and take a break from the various activities you’re involved in with regards to any day spent on the beach, at a picnic or while camping.

The Rocking Chair – Another good camp chair is a rocking camping chair. This is a chair that is portable and can be easily stored away. It offers a nice diversion from other models of outdoor chairs as you can simply rock your cares away.

The Recliner – If you want a chair that is lighter in weight than, say, a lounger, a recliner may be a chair that would be to your liking. The chair offers great mobility and is highly adaptable. Some chairs have 5 positions for you to repose.

The Love Seat – If you don’t want to be alone and like the thought of togetherness, then a love seat might be more to your liking. Take this type of chair along when you travel by RV and want a nice cozy seat next to the campfire on a cool fall evening.

The Backpacking Chair – For backpackers or hikers, a backpacking chair is an obvious choice. A good majority of these chairs supply a cushion as an additional enhancement while resting on the trail. You can carry this type of chair just about anywhere.

The Quad Chair – One of the most popular camp chairs is the quad chair. This chair comes in a host of styles and shades. Some come with an umbrella so one can find shade wherever they’re at. Other chairs offer additional cushioning and provide more room for the larger camper. Some chairs are offered in a swift-drying mesh fabric should you find yourself in a summer rain.

The Butterfly Chair – One of the extremely lightweight camp chairs is a butterfly chair. This chair is ideal for use by hiker and backpacker alike. Because they weigh only about a pound, they can be toted all over the place.

The Portable Deck Chair – A folding camp chair that looks good on a deck or patio is a portable deck chair. This chair can easily be stored and transported by vehicle to whatever campsite you’re headed to.

The Folding Stool – The most practical chair you can use while camping is the folding stool. Hikers and backpackers also like this chair as it offers a sensible solution to taking a break while involved in these types of pursuit.

Most camping chairs are offered with a number of amenities. You can pick a carrying case, a holder for your cups or a sunshade. You can find the chair especially for you. Simply look online and you’re sure to find it there.

Joe enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. When he’s not camping, he’s researching the best camping gear available including the best camping chairs and tandem camp chairs.

Have A Hassle-Free Family Caravan Holiday By Being Well Prepared

October 29th, 2009

If you are busy with work and your kids need a brake from school perhaps what your family needs is an outdoors camping holiday. You might be surprised at the amount of fun you will have sharing memories around a campfire.

It’s important to establish how many people are travelling, what type of accommodation you will have, whether you will be using a caravan or not, what kind of cooking equipment you will need (if any); as this will reflect the holiday budget.

In order to avoid problems and upsets when you are camping, it’s best to choose the correct and essential equipment adequately.

Tents are usually the choice for setting up camp and if you are thinking of using one, make sure it is large enough to be comfortable. An average person needs 30sq feet of space to have enough room and comfort.

Another important item in your list would be a suitable sleeping bag. There is a huge range of bags available to suit every shape, size and taste. Have a look at the weather forecast of the place you are visiting, this way you can have a rough idea of how warm your sleeping bag needs to be.

The next thing to consider is food. Normally when we are outside our homes, performing physical activities, our bodies consume more energy and those calories need to be replenished. A hot meal (plus plenty liquids) at the end of each day is exactly what the body needs. Before setting off, decide if you are doing your own cooking.

If you are doing your own cooking it’s advisable to get the standard two-burner portable cooker found in most camping shops. You will also need to source the correct type of cooking gas, usually butane or propane depending where you live. A small pot and frying pan and you are set to cook outdoors.

Undoubtedly using a caravan or a recreational vehicle is a great option for added comfort and facilities, as it provides a better equipped living space at the campsite. Consider buying a caravan porch awning; you will enjoy all the extra living quarters you get. At a campsite the more space you have, the more comfort you will feel.

If you are well prepared before starting your trip you will avoid much stress as things tend to go wrong when travelling. Sometimes spending a little more cash in better camping equipment can make all the difference to your holiday.

Enlarging your living space with a caravan porch awning when you are camping will be welcome by all your friends and family. Caravan awnings are perfect for people that enjoy a bit of comfort when caravaning.

categories: caravans,camping equipment,camping,outdoors,adventure travel,holidays,vacations,home and family,kids and teens,travel,shopping and product reviews,recreation and sports,parenting