Category Archives: Camping

Bringing The Right Equipment When Going Camping

Many families go camping at State Parks because the camping facilities offer all the comforts of home while people sleep in tents. People that use recreational vehicles for camping have many of these conveniences inside the RV but do tend to need other outdoor camping equipment that a tent owner would not necessarily pack up for a weekend away. Recreational vehicle owners are more centered on spending time at a nice recreation spot and need outdoor camping equipment that is solid.

For entertaining outdoors, a recreational vehicle owner would truly enjoy having a folding table to cook on. These tables are rigid and could support an outdoor grill nicely with enough room left over to play cards with friends throughout the afternoon. Folding chairs would make good outdoor camping equipment because nice furniture would be left inside the RV and the owners would not have to worry about anyone getting wet if it remained outside the recreational vehicle all night.

The campsite would be more efficient with these two sturdy camping accessories but some recreational vehicle owners might prefer benches. These outdoor furniture items make camping outdoors more believable because they can be made of steel but resemble real wood. All of these pieces of camping equipment can be taken apart and stored in the recreational vehicle while the campers are enroute to another recreation area or the long tables will fit nicely on top if tied down well.

Some outdoor enthusiasts get tired of traveling after a while and will often rent a lot at an RV park. Other RV’er enthusiasts will be there and some will use outdoor camping equipment to create a marvelous backyard for friends to enjoy when they stop over for dinner or a game of cards. Recreational vehicle owners might have to ask permission to use camping equipment while in the park, but often the owners will allow hammocks to be tied to trees on the lot.

During inclement weather, a recreational vehicle owner might choose to use other types of camping equipment that would normally be reserved for State Parks or other outdoor camping uses. Butane lanterns can come in very handy when power goes out in an RV park, and visibility is low enough to make trips to the washrooms and laundry treacherous. If propane is not offered at the RV park, then the option of using camping equipment like propane stoves would be justified if the RV owner has a good supply of the little tanks in the storage spaces in the RV.

During power shortages, camping equipment such as ice chests will be needed to preserve food stuffs until power is restored. Campers use sleeping bags and tents when temperature rise and the recreational vehicle’s air conditioning cannot be run due to battery back up system malfunctioning during this period. Campers rely on camping equipment to carry them through difficult times. Under the worst conditions, campers will know that they will have a dry place to sleep at night and hot meals to eat at night.

James Brown writes about Mountain Gear web code, Backcountry discount codes and Bass Pro Shops web code

The Top Two Most Scenic Camping Locations in Washington

Residents of Washington State know full well the beauty of their own corner of the country, but if you were to prompt them about some of the more specific places of note, it is undoubtedly certain that Orcas Island and the Olympic National Rainforest would be among the top locations mentioned.

The largest island among the cluster of beautiful Northwest jewels that form the famed San Juan Islands, Orcas Island is a must-see vacation and camping spot that demands a full weekends attention. Providing a wealth of activities to choose from, such as camping, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, sea kayaking, whale watching, swimming, biking and more, Orcas Island makes for an ideal place to get away. Traveling there is equally as picturesque as the island itself. Take the ferry that departs out of Seattle and find out first hand why they call it the Emerald City.

Once you arrive, you will have a variety of choices to choose from when it comes to where you will be staying. Though the island offers a host of scenic hotels and inns, this author highly recommends the visceral experience of camping on one of the islands public camping grounds with a few close friends. If it is not raining, fill your nights by sitting next to a campfire and roasting some hot dogs and marshmallows. Then, fill your daytime schedule with a trip on a whale watching boat, riding the roads and trails on some rented bikes and, finally, taking in an evening dinner at a small local restaurant before returning to your campsite. If you are new to camping and need tips, tricks and specific information on how to prepare, I suggest visiting TentsAndMoreOnline. Here, you will find all the help you need to ensure your camping trip is a successful one, plus the gear to make it happen.

For those of you who are not into island hopping, an excursion deep into Washingtons highly-coveted and preserved Olympic National Rainforest might just be the way to help you see Washington at its finest. Maintained at a distribution of 95% wilderness, the parks and trails showcased in this area of the country truly give you a taste of what it must have been like before the New World expanded to draw ink on every inch of the map. There are many public camps offering places to hunker down for a few days, but if camping is not necessarily the way you want to sleep at night, the nearby town of Port Angeles is a welcome refuge from the great outdoors.

If you are a hiking and camping enthusiast, or an admirer of untamed nature in general, make sure to visit the Olympic National Rainforest at least once in your lifetime. Though not recommended for the casual camper, it is still a completely accessible location for campers armed with pertinent camping knowledge. Next time you are in Washington State, make time for the sights that make the Pacific Northwest a striking home for so many, and a dream vacation spot for even more.

Warren L. Smith offers a fountain of information on such tents as: pop-up tents and campers, family tents, party tents, and even trailer tents. For the best up to date information on all essential tents for camping, go to http://www.tentsandmoreonline.com/

Essential Camping Gear Makes Living in the Great Outdoors Easy and Fun

There’s nothing like a camping trip with the family to create some unforgettable memories and bonding time. Getting away from the daily grind to explore the great outdoors can be both relaxing and energizing. But before you go, make sure you have made the necessary preparations with this essential camping gear list:

1. Food
Part of the fun of camping is having the opportunity to prepare and eat your meals outdoors – the fresh smell of coffee and eggs – wafting through the air. One easy breakfast recipe, Hillbilly Trash Breakfast, uses aluminum foil to cook hash browns, eggs, sausage or ham, and cheese together for a delicious start to the day with easy clean-up. And of course, no camping trip is complete without a hot dog roast and s’mores under the stars.

2. Sleeping bags
Sleeping bags come in various shapes and sizes and use different materials for insulation. Before choosing a sleeping bag, consider what kind of camping you are going to do. Are you a summer weekend camper who likes to head to a state park? Or maybe you’d like to try something more serious. For casual campers who like to just get outdoors during the warmer months, a basic sleeping bag should suffice. For those who want to try their hand at camping in cooler or more inclement weather, consider a “mummy” sleeping bag with insulation for up to zero degrees.

3. Tent
Tents come in many shapes, sizes, and styles. Make sure to really shop around before making your purchase. Consider, are you a family of four or more? A two-room tent might be ideal for you. If you’re just starting out with a spouse or friend, you could get by with a two-person tent. Tents also come with or without screened-in porches, ideal for storing shoes and other miscellaneous items.

4. Water
You’ll need lots of water when camping – for drinking and cooking. It’s a good idea to stock up on individualized water bottles. For those using water from a campground source, you might need to sterilize it first. A portable water filter is your best bet to ensuring the water is safe to drink. These filters remove bacteria, protozoa, viruses, and chemicals.

5. First Aid Kit
Definitely do not go camping without a first aid kit. Well-stocked first aid kits include: bandages and gauze of various sizes, antiseptic cream, sterile wipes and rinse solutions, pain medicine, tweezers and scissors, sunburn relief spray, and anti-diarrhea medicine.

6. Flashlight
For those late-night calls to the bathroom, a flashlight is essential. No matter how close you may be camped out near the facilities, you’ll need a flashlight to see your way. Choose a sturdy flashlight that has been designed for outdoor use.

7. Utility Knife
For all the tools that you use at the campground, a quality utility knife will be one of the most versatile. Always keep your utility knife clean and sharp. A dull knife is a dangerous instrument. Always hold the utility knife firmly by the handle and cut away from the body. Knives should not be used to pry something open or as a screwdriver.

8. Rain Gear
Don’t forget clothing for any inclement weather you may encounter. That means a complete change of clothes, in case the ones you’re wearing get wet. A rain jacket always comes in handy for when the weather turns wet.

9. Lantern
Once the sun goes down, it can get pretty dark around the campsite, save the light from the campfire. Always bring along a lantern to provide additional lighting. You can purchase a lantern fairly inexpensively.

10. Camp Stove
Unless you’re skillful at cooking over an open fire, a camp stove will be necessary for cooking most of your meals. Like lanterns, camp stoves are inexpensive items that use the same fuels as lanterns.

Safecutters Inc., provides an online store of utility knife box cutters for opening shipping boxes and shipping packages, as well as safety knives to open moving boxes and packages. For more information about Klever Kutter and other Safecutters products contact us!

Your Camping Questions Answered

Instead of chestnuts roasting on an open fire, it should be marshmallows roasting on an open fire. Camping is an activity quite like any other. The serene quality of being out in nature is one that thousands of people take part in when the weather gets warmer. The tents become unfurled and sleeping bags make their way out of storage.

Warm weather signals a great time to make camp and get out of the house. The long winter is over and now it is time to get outside and get active. Are you a camping enthusiast or are you a novice to this great pastime? If you are a novice then you are in luck. This article will cover the basics of what you will need while camping and what to expect of the great outdoors.

How much do camping grounds charge?

Some camping grounds only charge a few dollars for their camping areas. The ones that provide water, showers, and electrical sockets will be charging more. The best way to find out the pricing is to go online to the national park you wish to visit. They can give you a listing of prices and when their camping grounds are open.

What can I do when I’m camping?

You can do whatever your heart desires. Some people look at camping as a way to relax and so they spend a majority of their time just relaxing by the campfire and reading a book. Some people want adventure such as rock climbing or white water rafting. You can also swim, hike, ride bicycles or even go horseback riding while you are camping. It is also a great way to explore the area.

How do I keep wild animals out of my food stuff?

The best way to keep animals out of your food stuffs is to keep it in your car if you are in a campground. If you are the enthusiast who likes to hike into the woods away from everyone you will want to tie your food stuff out of reach so small animals, and even big ones, can not reach the food.

Keeping a campfire going will also discourage animals from getting into your food supplies. Always keep scraps and other food wastes buried or far away from camp to discourage them as well.

What are some typical foods that are eaten while camping?

Who could possibly not go camping and not have hot dogs and marshmallows roasted over an open fire? It is just tradition to have those two staples. Other food items will depend on what type of camping you are doing. Many people love to catch their own food and roast them on the fire.

Fish is an excellent food source and if you are near a river or stream it is a great way to hunt for your food. No matter what food you take, you will swear it is much better outside than if you were to cook it at home.

What are some additional tips for camping?

The best tip when it comes to camping is to have fun. This is your time to relax and commune with nature. It does not matter if it is at a camping ground or you have hiked into the middle of a forest.

It is about getting away from the hustle and bustle of work and everyday life and just enjoying the time with your family. Kids love being out camping and it is a great way to show them the beauty of nature.

Mike Selvon’s portal will expand your knowledge on camping for camping. Visit us and leave a comment at our camping sites blog where a free gift awaits you.

Camping Tents Buying Guide – From Cotton to Canvas!

Do you thrive in the outdoors? Do you love camping? Then buying a camping tent is an absolute must! Make your next camping trip more exciting, safe, comfortable and memorable with the right tent. Here is a guide to help you choose the perfect tent.

What type of tent best suits your needs?

You should consider factors such as cost, weight, space, shape, versatility and storage before buying a tent. It is important to prioritize these features based on your camping requirements.

How are tents classified?

Tents are classified according to usage, design, season and fabric.

Tents by Usage:

Tents should be easy to pitch, spacious and lightweight. Army tents are sturdy in design and are used for sleeping accommodations and general storage. Beach tents with a UV protective nylon coating provides maximum protection from the sun when camping on the sand. Cabin tents and camping tents are perfect for families or teams. These tents have plenty of space and sufficient headroom to allow you to stand. There are also canopy tents, castle tents, trailer tents and more.

Tents by Type:

The design your camping equipment is critical when it comes to selecting the right one. Dome tents and folding tents are lightweight and freestanding. The dome tent is hexagonal in shape, ideal to withstand adverse weather conditions. The A-frame style tent resembles the alphabet and works fine on solid or concrete surfaces. It eliminates the need of poles and provides a lot of open room. The single hoop tent belongs to the A-frame family. It features a single hoop in the center which makes it easier to get in and out of the tent. The geodesic tent has a sturdy structure, the maximum amount of headroom and abundant usable floor space due to its geometric shape. Pop-up tents are economical and lightweight shelters that can be set up in a few seconds. These tents are ideal for backyard picnics and parties, sporting events and exhibitions. The screen house tent is a large tent with transparent side screens. They allow you to view everything going on outside though you are comfortably sitting inside. A tunnel tent is narrow and linear in design, constructed with two or more hoops along its length and performs excellently in severe weather conditions.

Tents by Season:

When will you be doing your camping and hiking? It is important to consider the type of outdoor adverturer you are and the tent you need for a particular season. Two-season or summer tents are lightweight and have a good ventilation system. Most of them have a vestibule, a fully enclosed canopy for storage purposes. The versatile three-season tents are sturdy, waterproof, windproof and can be used in any kind of weather. Four-season tents are specifically designed to withstand severe winter conditions and come with supplementary poles to strengthen their walls. These expensive tents are becoming more popular in the outdoor sports industry since they are light, easy to use and more durable than other tents.

Tents by Fabric:

The type of fabric or tarp used is responsible for the resistance offered by a tent. Ascertain your camping requirements and choose accordingly.

The nylon fabric used in dome tents ensures water resistance, flexibility and durability. It also makes then tent light in weight. If you like to camp for days or weeks at a time, then polyester tents are your best option. They have better UV resistance, superior deterioration resistance and greater durability.

Cotton canvas tents are made of rough weave material and tend to be heavy. Though the tent is not waterproof, it is inexpensive, very durable and can be swiftly erected. The UV-Tex 5 tent is cooler, stronger, leak resistant and much more durable than the nylon or canvas tent. You should but a tent that is waterproof and perforation resistant. If your budget can afford it, select a model that can withstand extreme weather conditions.

What are the most important features of a quality tent?

Check for the following attributes before choosing a tent.

Strength:

The best tent should be constructed using the finest components available. These components should include good fabrics, frames, zippers, buckles and coatings to give the tent a sturdy structure.

Rain and Wind Protection:

Tents should be able to resist extreme weather conditions and provide its inhabitants with protection against wind and rain. The A-frame, dome and tunnel shaped tents best suit this demand.

Ventilation and Condensation:

A good tent should be made with coated fabric doors and have awnings over the entrance to provide ventilation and minimize condensation.

Easy Set-up:

A tent should be easy to erect. Color coding is helpful in setting up a tent, as it makes it easier to identify the front, sides and back.

Size and Weight:

A tents weight includes the weight of the tent body, rain fly, poles and stuff-sack. The size and weight of the tent you need should be based on planned activities, number of campers, amount of equipment that you bring along and weather.

What are the other tent components that need to be considered while choosing a tent?

Besides a suitable size, style, and weight, you need to check out the following components.

Poles:

You can choose from aluminum, fiberglass, carbon, or tubular fiberglass poles for a sturdy tent. Lightweight aluminum poles provide protection from UV radiation while fiberglass poles are highly durable.

Seams:

Check for high level seams to prevent water entry.

The Floor:

The flooring material should have a waterproof polyurethane coat to resist wear and tear.

Vestibules:

Vestibules offer an extended dry area to store packs, boots and other camping equipment. They maximize storage and living space without adding weight to the tent.

Internal Storage Pouches:

The internal walls of the tent should have pockets or loops overhead to store lightweight items and suspend lights and hanging gear.

Is it possible to extend the lifespan of a tent?

Follow these steps to ensure that your camping tent lasts longer:

Never roll up or pack away a wet tent or swag.
Always store your tent in a dry place.
Avoid spraying insecticide, hair spray and other aerosols inside or near your tent. These sprays may be harmful to the fabric and cause leakage.
Wash the tent with a sponge and mild soap, such as ivory flakes. Never use a washing machine or detergent. They can cause damage to the seams and coating.
If the poles become exposed to salt air, wash them properly in fresh water and air-dry to prevent corrosion.
Avoid any fuel-powered devices inside the tent.
Do not roll up the poles and pegs with the tent. Keep them separate.

Bob Shanty has been researching and writing articles that help shoppers shop online and make more
educated buying decisions on camping equipment for online mega store BIGshop for years. For more articles by Bob please visit http://www.bigshop.com.au.

Camping Gear Sale – The Perfect Way!

For many people, camping is an experience that has a lasting impression in their memories. However, the same camping trip can turn out to be a disaster if one takes along the wrong gear for camping. Buying the correct camping gear is a pre-requisite to a great and thoroughly enjoyable camping experience. One should have a discerning eye when it comes to buying the correct camping gear. You can then buy this camping gear at a 2nd camping gear sale.

The lure of saving money in everything seems to be hard to resist for all of us. That is why, especially for their first camping trip, people tend to buy camping equipment from economy stores such as K-Mart. They seem to find it sensible not to spend too much money buying expensive gear, lest they discover that they do not like camping at all.

However, if you do try to save money by buying cheap equipment, you will have a lot of chances during your camping trip to regret that decision. For example, a cheap gas stove might turn out to be a risky proposition while a tent of questionable quality might spring a leak and leave you dripping wet on a rainy night. We are sure that even the thought of such disastrous situations will be enough to prevent you from buying cheap camping gear.

However, one still has to be careful, while buying even expensive camping gear, as expensive here does no necessarily translate into good quality. In such a case one can take the help of the suggestions given by friends or do some research online, or better still, take the advice of the sales advisor at a sporting goods store nearby.

This will make you aware of the quality brands in camping equipment and you can thus start being on the lookout for sales or good deals on these brands.

Usually, the places where you can find the best deals on good quality camping equipment include 2nd camping gear sale or websites, which deal in wholesale/ surplus camping gear. You can easily get quality equipment at a 2nd camping gear sale.

Although you may be able to get 2nd camping gear sale items on the net and in fact, get great discounts too, it is always advisable to but this gear at the sporting goods store near you. The time for these sales is usually around winter, once the camping season is over. Although it may seem too early, with your camping trips still months away, this is actually the correct time to but your camping gear. Your camping trip is sure to be a great success because of this prior planning.

The secret behind a truly enjoyable camping experience lies in buying the correct camping gear at the right prices. You must plan ahead and scour out the campsites you are planning to stay at, check out the facilities provided at the campgrounds, and the activities you can participate in, in that area. Ensure that you have packed each item of your camping gear, to take with you. Also, before embarking on your trip, why don’t you try out your tent one day in your backyard? That way, you will not only save time at the campgrounds, but will also get into the right spirit of camping.

Abhishek is a Camping freak! Visit his website www.Camping-Guru.com and download his FREE Camping Report “Camping With The Family: How To Have A Safe, Fun, And Inexpensive Vacation” and learn some amazing Camping tips and tricks for FREE. Learn how to have the perfect vacation on a shoe-string budget. But hurry, only limited Free copies available ! www.Camping-Guru.com

Yellowstone National Park – The ABCs about Yellowstone National Park!

Yel.low stone National park has hundreds and thousands of tourists coming each year in summer to see the natural wonders this place offers to see. Mammoth Hot Springs, Roosevelt Tower and also Fort Yellowstone are the old and faithful sites of the national park. These famous sites bring people to this national park across the world. If you are fascinated and desire to visit Yellowstone Natio.nal park, then why not bring your RV with you for camping at this place.

Camping at Yellowstone can be quite pleasant if you long to see all the things yellow stone national park has to offer. While camping at Yellowstone national pa.rk you can enjoy your RV as well as the options that are available in the park.

Some areas in Yellowstone nat.ional park are truly wild for example the back country. Some of the place may be of interesting to you after stationing your RV at the base camp and then trekking along to other parts the Yellow.stone national park.

RV camping in Yellow.stone national pa.rk is quite affordable. You can also have the option of seeing the Yellowstone national park and also checking yourself in the hotel in the local area of the park. During the summer season these hotels are quite expensive and are cheap only off season when they run almost empty.

Yellowstone natio.nal park has eleven campsites inside it. If in case you plan to stay in anyone of them, it is best for you to contact the people who manage this nati.onal park.

You may find the contact information of the company that administrates this park on the internet. You need to have the reservations at these places during the summers. It can get frustrating to go through searching different campsites at Yellowstone national park before finally settling to station at some campsite. Contact the administrators of Yello.wstone national pa.rk much in advance in case your RV is more than 30 meters long, as only few of them can be accommodated at the campsites of this sized RVs.

Accommodations at the Yellow.stone natio.nal park differ from camp site to camp site within this nati.onal park. Some campgrounds at Yellowstone national park have toilets, showers, dumping facilities etc and others may have none at all.

In case you decide not to take your RV with you to Yellowstone national park, then there are other options available for you which are within 30 to 40 miles of distance from the Yellowstone national park. The closest to the park are rocky mountain campsite, eagle creek and Yellowstone RV Park. These places too like the national park can get busy during summer seasons so incase you make a plan, get your reservations done on time to avoid going on circles to find the place to stay.

When you are RV camping at Yellowstone national park, there is something you should not forget. Do not drink water which is not purified as giardia is on increase in these waterways and streams in the entire nati.onal park. The crisp clear mountains are not as clean as they appear. Also there are scalding areas here the water runs just under the earth. People RV camping should be careful of bears in this park. Listen to the officials there and take their advice seriously, do not feed wild animals. Feeding these wild animals puts you at a risk and also makes them aggressive eventually leading to their death.

Abhishek is a Camping freak! Visit his website www.Camping-Guru.com and download his FREE Camping Report “Camping With The Family: How To Have A Safe, Fun, And Inexpensive Vacation” and learn some amazing Camping tips and tricks for FREE. Learn how to have the perfect vacation on a shoe-string budget. But hurry, only limited Free copies available ! www.Camping-Guru.com

In Search Of Tents For Your Camping Trip

They were the mainstay shelter for many years, back to the nomadic man era. They were easy to handle, small enough to carry comfortably and it has often been said if buildings grew naturally like a tree, then tents would be like the mushrooms on the forest floor. Why? Because they tend to appear overnight, are only seen briefly, then disappear just as quickly, with no proof that it had ever been there.

As sturdier materials started to be used, such as wood or stone, it was thought that the tent would surely become extinct. But for no apparent reason, as buildings became much more grandeur and larger, so did the tent.

Perhaps the biggest and grandest pergola belonged to Alexander the Great. He made a marriage tent that hung from 50 thirty-foot columns of silver and gold, making it large enough to house 100 couches and host 9,000 friends.

The roof was a dome and had amazing portrayals of the sun, moon, stars and all of the deities of heaven. It was named the cosmic tent and went on to inspire Nero to build one just like it. Luckily, it does not need to be that spectacular or big to get the job of sheltering done.

However, it is interesting that the basic, primitive structure for sheltering man can also be seen now as a symbol of pomp and circumstance, showing up on parade grounds, campgrounds and even used for outdoor wedding receptions. Tents are extremely versatile, used at golf tournaments, at groundbreaking ceremonies and the Worlds Fair. But even with all of that history and versatility, many believe the best use of a tent is as part of your camping equipment.

When you are considering what type of tent to get for your camping excursions, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you want one that is actually comfortable when everyone is inside, meaning if the manufacturer says it will fit 4 people comfortably, go for something bigger.

Space saving and durability are two major points to look for when purchasing tents. Every extra pocket is great when you are trying to make floor space, and of course you need something durable so that you will not end up on the lake without a boat the next time you are camping and it gets windy. And please, for the sake of your children, practice setting up the tent at home before attempting it at the family campground.

Mike Selvon’s portal will expand your knowledge on tents for camping. Visit us and leave a comment at our camping sites blog where a free gift awaits you.

Hiking Alone, 7 Tips To Staying Alive

Almost everyone will say to never hike alone but the reality is we have all done it at one time or another and we will continue to do so. Sometimes you can’t find anyone to go with and sometimes you just want to be alone. Here are some tips to enjoy yourself and ensure that you come back in one piece.

1. Tell someone where you are going!

Tell someone exactly where you are going and when you are to be expected back. Leave them a map with your route on it if they are not familiar with the area. Also tell them when to call the authorities if you do not return. If you do not know anyone at all, stop at a ranger station and tell them you will check back with them on the way out, kind of like a flight plan for airplanes. If you are leaving your car somewhere while you hike alone give them your license number, make and model and so forth. I like to leave a map of where I am going in my car also in case the worst happens and someone is searching my car for clues. These days if you are into GPS systems you can leave exact co-ordinates for your location also. This is probably the best insurance you have when you are hiking alone and the most often overlooked. You may go all of your life without having to use any of this information but the one time you need to you will be glad you told someone.

2. Stay with the Plan

If you leave a plan with a friend or authority and then you decide to go somewhere else, all of your efforts to prevent disaster have come to nothing. Do not vary your route no matter how tempting it may be. If you decide to change anything or come out early, let those waiting for you know so they are not wasting time looking for you. This sounds so simple but you would be surprised how many people decided to change the route at the last minute and regretted it later. Don’t do it. Hiking alone is risky enough without adding more danger of not being found.

3. Take Water

You cannot survive very long without water. If you are going for a day or a few, take more than you think you need and take water purification iodine or filters because you can survive quite a while with water but not very long without. Enough said.

4 Take Food

Well you say I am only going for the afternoon but what if you fall and break an ankle and now it is night and you have your water but you are hungry! If you go very long you will be very glad you brought at least a few energy bars or some gorp or gu, something. I eat a lot so I take more than most but take more than you think you need. Hiking alone is miserable if you are stuck, lost and hungry!

5. Take Sleeping gear

Now I don’t say take a sleeping bag necessarily, but take a space blanket which takes no room or ads no weight and take an ensulite pad. If you ever have to spend the night directly on the ground you will be glad you took a pad. I like to use it to take breaks on and rest my bum on instead of that sharp rock you are sitting on. It really does not weigh very much and will keep your body temperature up if you have to sleep outside. Ditto for the space blanket. They both go together and will keep you relatively warm and toasty without freezing to death.

Also take more clothes than you will think you need because if you are stuck outside or even it turns cold you will be prepared, I think these three items go together, bag, pad and clothes.

6. Take a Flashlight

A flashlight these days is so light weight what with L.E.D.’s and space age materials there is no excuse for not carrying one. Gone are the days of 3 cell Mag-lites weight many pounds. You can get a really bright and long lasting light for not much money and not much weight either.

7. Take First aid. Take at least a minimal first aid kit when you are hiking alone and if you need aspirin or anti-septic or a bandage you will be glad you did.

If you follow these simple steps you will find hiking alone to be pleasurable and safe.

Hiking
alone
can be a safe if you follow these 7 steps to
staying alive

“Must – Haves” for the Outdoor Enthusiast

Hunters, campers and outdoor enthusiasts appreciate equipment and tools that help them enjoy the outdoors more fully. Whether its fishing, hunting, or hiking, the following equipment can make great gift ideas that your outdoor enthusiast will look forward to using on the next outing.

A cast iron roaster and griddle is ideal for preparing wild game and one-pan meals. For instance, the Cabela Oval Cast Iron Roaster & Griddle provides quick and even cooking and the lid doubles as a convenient griddle. Although it can be used indoors, it’s best results are rendered for outdoor cooking.

No hunter or fisherman should be without a fillet knife. Like a very flexible boning knife, the fillet knife is used to fillet and prepare fish. They have a blade about 6 to 11 inches long that allows them to move easily along the backbone and under the skin of fish. The MAC Sole Fillet knife has an exceptionally thin and flexible blade designed for filleting sole or other delicate flat fish.

And while you’re considering a fillet knife, why not consider a knife block set for the serious hunter or fisherman. Professional quality-made knives feature paring, serrated utility, carving, and a cook’s knife – all contained in a knife block for easy and safe storage. Shop for high carbon stainless steel blades and poly handles with a no-slip grip for years of use.

A truly practical gift for the hunter, electric grinders come in a variety of sizes to meet various grinding needs. Choose one, like Cabela’s Commercial Grade Electric Grinders, that offer stainless steel necks, bases, plates, screws and blades, and also are certified for home or commercial use.

Nothing is more delicious than chicken prepared on a roaster, otherwise known as “beer butt chicken roasters.” These roasters come in either double or single size in stainless steel. Although these kinds of roasters were developed to roast the poultry using a beer can, other liquids such as juice or soda drinks can be used. The liquid provides steaming inside the chicken, which produces juicy, tender chicken that falls off the bone. These types of roasters require an outdoor grill with a high lid design to accommodate the chicken roasters.

Functional and convenient for the hunting camp, a slow cooker is ideal for the hunter who can prepare meat or stew ingredients with seasonings, and then heat out to hunt and return later to a warm, filling meal that’s ready to enjoy. Eastman makes a 3.5-quart slow cooker with a RealTree Hardwood Camo design.

Jerky is a food staple for many hunters and can be made from beef, venison, elk, turkey, and more. To prepare jerky, the chosen meat is thinly sliced, or pressed thinly, and drying commences at low temperatures, to avoid cooking or overdrying the meat. Multi-tiered jerky trays allow hunters to process a large batch of jerky. Look for trays with an easy-to-clean tray that catches drippings.

For the outdoor enthusiasts who need their morning java, a drip coffee maker designed to fit on a two- or three-burner gas stove, like the Coleman Drip Camp Coffee Maker, can be easily used on a camp or RV gas stove. The Coleman coffee maker also offers pause, serve, and easy pour features.

Once the hunter heads out, he or she can keep their coffee hot with vacuum bottles. The Cabela Camo Bullet Vacuum Bottle are made of stainless steel and are double-walled to keep beverages hot or cold and are extra tough for rugged conditions. The insulated lid doubles as a cup. The bottles come in various sizes.

Any outdoorsman knows that animal-proofing a campsite is important for both humans and animals. A chuck box is a convenient accessory to keep staples and cooking tools contained in a locked container. Cabela’s Chuck Box comes with utility hooks, shelf space, paper towel holder, carrying handles, and even a silverware tray. The formica top doubles as a work surface.

Safecutters Inc., provides an online store of utility knife box cutters for opening shipping boxes and shipping packages, as well as safety knives to open moving boxes and packages. For more information about Klever Kutter and other Safecutters products contact us!