Article World

Camping in a Tent

Chances are that sometime in your life you have either camped with family or friends, or you have thought about it. Either way, the best way to get right down to the basics is camping in a tent. Camping in a tent can be a great adventure. It is a great way to get in touch with your family, as it can be a good bonding tool as well. You can get in touch with nature and do things the old-fashioned way by cooking over an open fire and sleeping close to the earth under the stars.

If you are considering going camping in a tent then you need to know a few basics of camping. First you will need to know what size of a tent that you will need. You need to know how many people will be sleeping in the tent. There are many different sizes of tents out on the market today. You can sleep anywhere from one to ten, in most family tents.

There are tents that have a few rooms, making your experience feel more like home as you can have one room as the bedroom, one for storing all of your stuff and as a dressing room and then you can use the screened in room as the porch. Many of the tents with a screened room can fit a table and chairs in it making it the best option for bug free eating and gathering outdoors with your camping buddies.

There are many types of tents to choose from. You can go with a quick set up with a dome tent, many of them assemble easily with poles that are connected with an elastic rope. This makes setups a snap as all you have to do, is put the pole through the holes and slip it into the pockets at the bottom, allowing the tent to stand up almost instantly.

You can also get frame tents that are very sturdy when it comes to weathering the natural elements. They may not offer the comfort of many room options but the durable appeal may out weigh those options. So you see there is a tent to meet whatever your need may be. The key to great camping in a tent, is to know what kind of tent you need to meet your need and how many people you will need to accommodate.

Camping is a fun and friendly way to reconnect with your family and friends and is also a great way to get back in touch with your inner child. Camping is a great release for stress and helps you get back to happy times. Do some homework when getting ready to choose the tent that is right for you and your family. You want to make sure that the tent meets the needs of everyone.

Do some home work and ask your self a few questions before making your purchase. Questions like: How many people will be camping in the tent? Will we need to store a great deal of gear in the tent? Do we need to have a screened in sitting room? What seasons will we be using it for and what will the weather be like? These questions will help you with what size of a tent you will need. Some people may like to camp in the cooler weather so they may want to go with a tent that is made for all seasons.

Camping in a tent is a great way to get back in touch with your family. You can sing songs and tell stories at the campfire. You can make delicious smores for all to enjoy. You can get everyone involved in a hike through the woods looking for many different things. Some campgrounds have bike trails as well so bring along the bicycles and get some fresh air and exercise with the whole family. No matter what you choose to do on your camping excursion, you can be sure that the whole family will have a great time.

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/

Air-Conditioning for Your Tent Camping Comfort

Lets face it, if you have ever been camping in the dead of the summer, in a tent, then you know how hot it can be to sleep at night. Yes camping is great fun but, when it is 90 degrees outside at night, it can be hard to sleep with the humidity and the heat. Thankfully there is an alternative to the sweltering sleepless nights. Now you can get air conditioning for camping in a tent.

There are many tents that offer great ventilation, where the tent has many windows; to allow the air to flow freely through the unit. This works well if there is a breeze to cool things off but, what if the air is still and it is humid? Cooling the tent, to make the night comfortable is a breeze. There are many compact air conditioners that can cool the tent for hours, allowing you to have a relaxing nights sleep.

Many have an attractive compact design, which offers a whisper quiet fan with low power usage for an economical alternative to many portable air conditioners; that can cost hundreds of dollars. Some brands are portable such as the KoolerAire, with its 12-volt air conditioner that is not tied down with hoses, pumps or pads. This type of air conditioning for tent camping is very inexpensive making it affordable for most any camper.

When challenged with the task to beat the heat while tent camping, you have two options: evaporating cooling systems and air conditioning units. Most air conditioners for tent camping, remove moisture which is a common choice in the areas of the country that have a high humidity. A refrigerant model will cool room temperature in a tent by 30 to 40 degrees. When cooling a tent, you will want to follow a common rule of thumb: one ton of cooling (or 12,000 BTU) for every 25 to 150 square feet of space.

Here are some other factors that you may want to consider when making your choice for a tent camping air conditioner, in addition to the square footage of the tent to be cooled: where will the tent be placed, what time of year will you be camping and what time of the day will you be spending in the tent. For example, if you are camping in the middle of August on an asphalt parking lot, in between two buildings, you will need more cooling units then if you were camping on a grassy clearing in the evening in May. Full stand up tents can make a difference, as well as there is more room to cool, verses the tents that are shorter.

The second option for air conditioners for tent camping is the Evaporative cooling systems, which blow out a cool mist that will evaporate when it hits hot skin. These type of cooling units use ice to cool the air and they can put out more air then the typical air conditioners at a distance of 60 to 80 feet. This alone makes this a very cost effective unit to have. They are very inexpensive to use as they require less units to cool an area. These types of air conditioners can lower the room temperature, at best, down 10 to 15 degrees.

Camping in tent is a great way to get back to basics, but you dont have to suffer in the heat as well. Investing in an inexpensive air conditioner can make a world of difference for you and your family when camping. Just imagine being able to go back to the nice cooled off tent after a day of hiking and playing in the great out doors. You will feel more refreshed after a good night sleep and be ready to take on the next adventure.

Warren L. Smith offers a fountain of information on such tents as: popup 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/

Camping With Beautiful Views in the Three Rivers Area in South Central New Mexico

The Three Rivers area in New Mexico is home to two public campgrounds that have spectacular views of the Sacramento Mountain range and White Mountain Wilderness. Each campground has remote, quiet, spacious camp sites - all with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Three Rivers Petroglyph Site and Campground

This archeological site and campground is maintained by the Federal Bureau of Land Management. The petroglyphs were created by the Jornada Mogollon people between about 900 and 1400 AD. The number and concentration of petroglyphs here make it one of the largest and most interesting petroglyph sites in the Desert Southwest. More than 21,000 glyphs of birds, humans, animals, fish, insects and plants, as well as numerous geometric and abstract designs are scattered over 50 acres of New Mexico’s northern Chihuahuan Desert.

A short, easy interpretative trail 200 yards south of the petroglyphs leads to the remains of the Mogollon village. The site, which was partially excavated in 1976, was occupied for about 400 years.

We started our visit at the small visitor center and talked to a very friendly host. Then we spent about an hour walking a very easy interpretive trail (just behind the visitor center) and thoroughly enjoyed both the petroglyphs and the beautiful scenery. The petroglyph site and adjacent campground is in a grand, open arid plain surrounded by the Sacramento Mountain range and White Mountain Wilderness.

The campground is just in front of the visitor center. There are only two camp sites at the campground - both having electric and water hook-up and designed for any size RV. The campground also allows camping in the picnic area. The vista of the distant mountains and arid landscape is beautiful and the camp sites (including the picnic area) have totally unobstructed views of it. Amenities include flush toilets and water hook up. This is a real gem that looks like it is in the middle of nowhere.

Three Rivers Campground

Several miles east of the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site is Three Rivers Campground in Lincoln National Forest maintained by the National Forest Service. This campground is very remote and quiet. The fourteen camp sites are very well laid out and well spaced with many having ramadas and picnic tables.

Most of the sites have excellent views of the surrounding mountains and White Mountains Wilderness area. Although the surrounding landscape is arid, there is a lot of greenery. A river runs along the edge of the campground and can be heard from some of the camp sites. This is a very nice, well planned campground with very beautiful views. Although this campground can accomodate large RVs, the only amenities offered are vault toilets and water spigots - but the trade off of amenities for the beautiful views is worth it.

Getting to these campgrounds is easy. Eighteen miles north of Tularosa, NM, turn east onto Forest Road 579 at the sign that says Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. The roads to each campground are well marked but unpaved a good part of the way. The trip is well worth the effort - two campgrounds with beautiful views and a very interesting archeological site.

Carl Zimmerman is owner and webmaster of Camping with a View, dedicated to finding campgrounds with beautiful views. Visit the New Mexico Campground Reviews page for more information on Three Rivers Petroglyphs Site and Three Rivers campground.

Camping with Beautiful Views of a Prairie Landscape and a Fun Day in the City in Eastern Iowa

Have you ever wanted to go camping with views of a beautiful natural setting but also be able to eat at a nice restaurant, go shopping and maybe even do a little golfing? Then try camping at Squaw Creek campground. It’s only a six minute drive from a major shopping district of Marion Iowa (a suburb of Cedar Rapids) and has beautiful views of natural restored prairies and meadows. We go to this campground to “get away from it all” as well as to shop, eat out and maybe take in a movie.

The views of the meadows and prairie landscape from most of the camp sites are gorgeous, especially in the fall. The campground is well maintained and most sites are fairly spacious with good separation between sites and shaded by trees. Many of the sites can accommodate RVs of all sizes. Campsites are located in two loops (A and B). Loop B has the best views with 47 electrical campsites. Each site in this loop has its own gravel pad, water hookup, 50 amp electrical service, a fire ring, and a picnic table. Flush restrooms are located in the campground, and a sanitary dumping station is located nearby. Showers are not available.

The campground is located in Squaw Creek Park. This 663-acre park has a lot to offer besides camping. The four mile long Squaw Creek Trail is very popular, winding through the park through both wooded and open meadow/prairie areas. Walking through the park is especially enjoyable in the fall as the leaves are turning. The colors are beautiful.

If you like to golf, then go to Squaw Creek Golf Course (renamed Donald K. Gardner Golf Course) adjacent to the park. This 18-hole championship course offers golfers a wide variety of holes. This course is very challenging for the advanced player offering length, hazards, and trees. Yet, it is still very enjoyable to play for those of average ability.

A major shopping district is only a 6 minute drive from the campground with many restaurants, movie theatres and shopping malls. We like to shop, eat out and maybe see a movie. But we also like to come back to the campground at the end of the day to once again “get away from it all” and enjoy the natural beauty of Iowa’s prairie landscape as it must have existed many years ago, before shopping malls!

Marion County is adjacent to the city of Cedar Rapids which offers additional attractions including art museums, an I-max theatre, and a large public library all of which we have visited and enjoyed on our many trips here. A visit to Czech Village (in Cedar Rapids) makes for a very interesting and fun day. The Czech Village highlights the history of the many immigrants of Czech, Moravian and Slovakian ancestry that gravitated to the Cedar Rapids area around the turn of the Twentieth Century. Places of interest include the Sykora Bakery, Zindricks Czech Restaurant, the Poleha Meat market, and the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library.

If you’re like us and occasionally like to get away from it all - but not too far way, then come to Squaw Creek campground. You’ll get that beautiful “back to nature” experience as well as the opportunity to explore the Cedar Rapids/Marion area in Eastern Iowa.

Carl Zimmerman is owner and webmaster of Camping with a View, dedicated to finding campgrounds with beautiful views. Visit the Iowa Campground Reviews page for more information on Squaw Creek campground.

How To Build A Campfire!

Ahhhh!!! There’s really nothing like standing around a blazing campfire on a cold morning, with a brisk north wind blowing in your face. First you warm the front part of your body, and then you turn and scorch your backside. That’s roughing it! This is the kind of outdoor living that men enjoyed a hundred years ago, before conditioned air and filtered water. This is my kind of morning!

Whether you are hiking, fishing, hunting or just camping, if you’re going to spend the night, you have to have fire wood. While having a camp fire is not the necessity it used to be, it is one of those experiences that make an overnight stay in the woods memorable. Today there are very few places to build a campfire without being arrested for arson unless you go to state or national parks where they have camping facilities.

There are private camping compounds but usually they don’t have the money to spend on upkeep that government owned facilities enjoy. Camp grounds can accommodate everything from enormously expensive motor homes, fifth wheelers, pop-ups or even pup tents.You can rough it in any manner you choose.

After you’ve set up the accommodations of your choice, unpacking all the necessary equipment for your stay, it’s time to build a fire. First though, check the rules for camp fires. In dry seasons you may not have the luxury of a fire. Be safe!

First, pick your spot. Find an area away from dry grass, tree limbs or other campers. It’s very easy for an errant breeze to float a spark, igniting a field of dry grass. A spark could also melt a hole in the synthetic fiber of some camper coverings. Use a fire ring. If a metal one is not provided, you can build one out of stone. The latter is more aesthetically pleasing, but both hold the ashes and keep the fire from spreading on the ground.

Hopefully, you have brought all the firewood you will need for your stay. If not, in most campgrounds you can locate a place that will sell you all you need, if you can afford it. Forget about trying to find leftover wood from previous campers. If there were campers there before you arrived, they will have scavenged any wood available.

Think small when you’re about to build a fire! To start the fire you need tender; small sticks, dry leaves twisted newspaper, pine needles or anything that will easily catch fire. When you have a small flickering fire, then it’s time to gradually add larger sticks of wood. As the fire gets larger and hotter you can add even larger chunks of wood. You can lay the wood on the fire any way you like as long as there is enough air flow from the bottom of the coals to the top of the fire, to keep the logs burning.

Building a fire is just common sense. If you have a small fire, add enough wood, any way you like, to make it into a larger fire. After you have the larger fire, add more wood if you want it bigger.

Raging, blazing fires are not cool. There’s too much of a chance that a spark will glide on the wind and set fire to someone’s tent or camper, not to mention the fields and forests! Keep the fire at a reasonable level and have a safe, happy stay in the great outdoors!

Bob Alexander is the author and sole owner of this article. Bob is greatly experienced in the art of southern barbequing, the great outdoors and leisure activity. Visit his sites:
http://www.bluefishbob.com
http://www.homeandgardenbob.com

Pop-up Camping: The Easy Way To Outdoor Fun

Whether you are an avid camper or just going for the first time with the family, you will love the pop up tents that are available on the market today. Pop-up tents are the most easily assembled tents to set up, leaving you more time to enjoy the great outdoors. No need to fuss over finding the directions or wondering where the stakes go, just unfold the pre-assembled cords and poles and slip them into the sleeves. From start to finish, these tents can be fully put up in a matter of minutes.

Types of Pop-ups

Hoop tents are perhaps the easiest to set up as some of them have the poles built right in the fabric. They can be held down with nylon rope, pegs, or stakes. With just the flick of a wrist these tents pop-up into full form. The only trouble would be figuring out how to fold it back up, but they come complete with picture-by-picture instructions. These types of tents are not suitable for windy circumstances but are perfect for a quick weekend getaway. The fast assembly allows you to spend more time on your get away than setting up your sleeping quarters.

Ridge tents are the most basic of pop-ups. They are similar to military tents offering ample headroom for a more comfortable sleep. They are also virtually effortless to set up and they are held down with rope and stakes or pegs. These are great for one or two campers and work well for camping with friends in groups as it allows you privacy while not taking up much room for the other tents. These types of tents are also convenient for such group gatherings as sporting events where you would be required to stay outdoors.

Frame Tents are large and roomy and are able to accommodate larger families. These are also made of sturdy frames and are held down with rope and tent stakes. Frame tents can sleep up to as many as ten people and hold your gear as well. Many of these tents come with holes for electrical cords allowing you to have power inside and keep the bugs out and some are even equipped with lights built right in. You can even get one with a storage spot to hold all of your gear in one place allowing you more room to kick back and relax.

Dome Tents are a favorite of families or groups of campers as these types of tents have more than one room and can generally sleep up to 10 people as well. This is great for families as the adults can have their own room as well as the children having their own room. Some even come with a common area such as a screened porch, which allows you to set up an eating or sitting area for the family to gather without the hassle of mosquitoes. These types of tents, like the frame tents, are equipped with a storage space for your gear to help keep it out of the way; and safe.

Pop-up tent campers offer many advantages as you have a complete mini home to travel with. They are perfect for families, offering a mini kitchen, mini bathroom, as well as sleeping spaces that convert to a living room area and/or kitchen. These are great, whether you do a great deal of camping or if you are a seasonal camper. They save you money on lodging fees and give you the comforts of home including air conditioning as well as your own toilet.

When choosing the tent that is right for you: you will want to make sure it is the right size for your needs and you will want it to be the right fit for the elements you will have to endure. You will want to be comfortable and kept dry when sleeping outdoors.

Take time to check out the different types of tents to make sure you get the best choice for you. Pop-up tents and pop-up campers are a great choice for your sleeping quarters, whether you are a new camper or a regular in the woods. They offer the convenience of quick set up and take down, allowing you to get the most out of your adventure.

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/

Camping with Pets- Tents Just For Fido and Felix

Pets also need a place where they can hideaway, a personal sanctuary so to speak. A place where they can kick up their paws to get some R & R in peace. They need protection from the harsh elements when camping in the great outdoors just as much as we do. After all you would not sleep in the rain so why should your pooch?
Pet tents are the perfect solution for pets on the go, protecting them from the unwanted hustle and bustle of camping and the noises that go with it. There are many pet tents to choose from, so do your homework and choose a tent that fits your pet.
Make sure you know what is in your budget and check the Internet for great deals. Below are some of the most popular pet tents to help you get started. Most pet tents are geared toward dogs and cats or a combination of both but there are other pet tents that are available on the market for other animals.

Some types of pet tents may include:

Hide-A-Doo Cat Tent: These tents are constructed with nylon fabric that is water repellent, the floors are made out of a synthetic fur, and the tent is supported by two rods made out of fiberglass. They come in several colors and designs to suit your pet. Some of the great designs include the Tiger, Leopard, Forest, and even the Onyx Zebra. This pet tent is very affordable with pricing at around $35.

Pet Hotel Tent Bed for Cats and Dogs: These tents are also mainly designed for travel use. They are made of nylon with insulated foam stuffed walls and soft fleece. They also include a soft pillow that is removable for washing and a bell for entertainment. These also fold easily for storage and are very simple to set up. These lovely tents will run you around $60.

New York Dog Plush Tent Bed: These types of tents are very stylish and are designed to be used for both traveling and for home. They make a cozy get away for your pet, they are easy to set up and fold flat for convenient storage. They cost around $55 and come in such prints as leopard, Stripes of pink and lavender, or blue and lime.

Dog Haus Tent: These tents have such features as removable liners that are quilted, water resistant and padded. These tents also come with functional doors and windows made with mesh backing. They can be used for a travel blanket or as a seat. There are mainly for protection against elements when traveling and cost around $70.

Carnival Pet Tents: These are designed for smaller cats and dogs and are made up to resemble a circus tent or carnival theme. They offer a sleeping pillow made of foam that is topped with a festive pompom. This tent may be a bit pricey for some, coming in at around $150.

Litter Maid Cat Privacy tent: This is a great tent for cats who need privacy to get business done. These tents offer six covered sides that aid in keeping the littler in the box. They are washable, have a plastic fan and come equipped with a zippered cover. The price for these handy items comes in around $45.

Mutt Hutt Pet Tent: The manufacture calls this a smaller version of the regular tents used by people today. They even feature a doggy door opening, zippered door, a clip on rain fly and ventilation panels at both the rear and top windows. The Pet Hotel Tent bed will run you around $60.

Original Pet Tent: This tent was designed for dogs and cats. This pet tent offers great support with its two external poles that are made out of fiberglass. They arc over the top, crisscrossing from one corner to another. These are multipurpose and can be used at a hotel, in airports and even camper vans. These lovely Pet tents will run you around $70 to $85.

Pet Tents - Large enough for Ferrets, Cats, small dogs and Parrots. They can also accommodate such animals as guinea pigs and birds. The tents are large at 15 inches and are square, collapsing easily for storage and can pop open in a jiffy for easy use. They cost around $25 to $30.

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/

Lightweight Tents- Do Not Get Blown Away

If you have ever been camping before then you know the importance of lightweight packing. Cutting down on the weight you carry with you will make things easier in the long run. Heavy tents can be a big burden to lug around if you are on the go. Lightweight tents are ideal for packing light. They are fast to assemble and quick to take down and fold up for easy storage.
But how light should you go? You do not want to go so lightweight that you will have trouble keeping the tent safely on the ground. This can be a real problem when using lightweight tents for outing such as shaded protection at the beach. The lightweight tents are ideal for beach goers as they do not add much to the weight you have to lug down to the beach front, but if you do not carefully anchor the tent down, you may end up chasing it down the beach.

Having your lightweight tent blow away while camping is less likely to happen, as you will generally have your gear stored inside making for a good anchor. It is always good to use the proper stakes and poles to assemble your lightweight tent. So how do you know which is the right one for you? Here is a list of questions to go by when choosing the right tent.

1. What will you be using the tent for? Will you be sleeping in it or will you be using it for hanging out with friends? If you will have a few people in the tent then you will want to make sure you get one that will accommodate everyone in the party. If you are using it for sleeping and storing gear, then you will not need a tall tent, you will need one that will fit your sleeping needs.

2. Will you have to carry the tent with you daily for back packing? If this is the case then you will not have to worry so much about quality but how lightweight it is for easy storage. You will not want to lug around a heavy tent as it will be difficult to carry.

3. Do you get Claustrophobic? If you are not good in tight spaces then you will want to get a roomier tent to allow you the feeling of a spacious room. These can also be of lightweight material and are easy to use for setup and take down.

4. Do you prefer lightweight or fast set up? There are such tents that offer the best of both worlds and if you do some research you will find a happy medium.

Basic Information On Lightweight Tents

Perhaps one of the lightest tents to travel with is a l2 person ultra light tent that weighs just under 3 pounds. The design of the tent helps keep condensation down and allows for good air flow. When you first get your tent you will want to try it out perhaps in your living room or in the yard. This will let you know what you need to do for setup and tear down of the tent.

The Single lay tents tend to have more condensation on the inside. This is also true for the tents that state that they are water proof and breathable. Testing the tent out will let you know if it is a right fit before you venture out into the wild. You do not want to be stuck trying to put it up for the first time in the rain. Knowing your tent will make your trip a smooth adventure.
For your light weight beach tents, you will want to make sure they have a good sturdy anchoring system to prevent your tent from taking flight. There are many of these type of tents available so check into which one is the right size for your needs.

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/

Play Tents for Kids

Back in the day, kids were content to play with make shift tents made from their Moms sheets. That is not so with the kids of today. Most are demanding more lifelike play areas, wanting a more realistic look to their pretend world. Thankfully, parents have some really interesting options for their childrens play area.

There are many varieties of play tents available for kids today on the market. When choosing the right one for your child, you will want to take into consideration these few guidelines.

1. Make your choice based on size. You will want to make sure you have a large enough play tent that will accommodate your child and his or her friends, yet small enough to fit indoors.

2. Will this be used indoors or outdoors? There are play tents that are made for either use and come in various shapes and themes. You will want to choose one with mosquito mesh and a water resistant floor for outdoor play.

3. What theme do you want to go with? You can get a theme based play tent or get a plain one and dress it up with your kids favorite characters. Either way, your little one will surely be a happy camper.

Types of Play Tents

Pacific Play Tents: Pacific Play Tents are one of the largest play tent manufacturers offering many varieties for children and parents to choose from. Two of their most popular tents are the Me too and the Find me tents. These two models have shock-corded poles, making them easy to assemble. They also have flame retardant 70 Denier nylon for the material used.

The Find Me play tents come with two windows that can be connected to play tunnels and they have a zipper and velcro on the front door. The Me too play tent is made with a polyethylene flooring and nylon ties on the T style door. The price on both of these play tents is around $25 to $30. Try some of Pacific Play Tents other available products such as the teepee playhouses or bed tents.

Spinmasters Create-A-Room Adventure Zone: These packages are a superheros dreams come true. They offer a Spiderman play tent, complete with an inflatable bed and foot pump all together in one package designed specially for superheros. These play tents are very easy to assemble as the poles are joined by one piece of elastic, making them great for a quick set up and they are very durable. The superhero create-A-Room will run you around $30

Lucy and Michael Play Tents: When moms get together there is no stopping them. When these two moms decided to come up with colorful play tents for their youngsters, they became one of the largest manufactures of play tents. Their tents are made from fun fabrics and are intricately-designed with durable pine supports. Their products are appropriately called heirloom-quality toys and they are not very cheap. A single product might cost you between $300 and $350. These are great if you want to give your child a family heirloom to hand down to their children but they are a bit pricey for just day to day use.

Playhut Play Tents: If your child is one of the kids who loves Sponge Bob Square Pants, then he will love the Sponge Bob Square pants Bikini Bottom Hideaway. This tent is a lightweight, portable tent that is covered with Sponge Bob and his friends from the hit TV show. Some of the features include a twist fold technology allowing for easy folding (patented by Playhut). They also have a flapping door and tunnel port for expandable play. These play tents will cost around $25 to $30.

Playhut also offers a Sponge Bob Square pants Play ‘N Fun tent, which is a combination of a slumber hideaway, roll out play mat, a bean bag toss game, cabana with a roll-up-flap door, crawl through tunnel port and a play tent. Priced around $40, this is a good choice for children as it allows a variety of activities.

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/

RV vs. Tents - a Comfort Issue

There are two styles of camping, both very enjoyable but both with different pros and cons. Deciding on a camping trip is easy, but what isn’t so simple is choosing whether you’d like to spend your holiday in tents or in an RV. Personality types that prefer the outdoors and roughing it are probably going to think tents are the only way to go, and those people who enjoy living in the lap of luxury will definitely rent an RV for maximum comfort - but what about those people who are in between and can’t decide which type of camping is best?

Kitting yourself out with some good-quality, solid camping equipment and tents can set you back a few hundred dollars. The advantage to camping with tents is that you’ll be investing in long-term equipment that will serve you vacation after vacation and will last many years if well maintained. Tents, sleeping bags and mattresses have come a long way and you’ll find the equipment light, easily transportable and quick to set up. The disadvantage to camping with tents is that you’re more at mercy of the elements, and a few days of rain can leave you slightly damp and humid. Space is also problematic, even though today’s tents have expanded to fit eight to twelve people.

Camping with tents also means that you’ll have to make arrangements for bathroom facilities and washing up. Most campgrounds offer public washrooms with toilets and showers, but many people consider the walk to the facilities an inconvenience. Also, the cleanliness of campground washrooms is important for personal hygiene.

With an RV rental, you’ll have good solid shelter, leg- and head-room, and you’ll have the comfort of tables, benches and proper sleeping accommodations. There’s very little set up involved with an RV, as you’re basically just parking the vehicle and hooking it up to the camping installation’s amenities.

The added advantage of having the conveniences of a shower, a bathroom and hot water at your disposal is often appreciated. However, RV rentals can be pricey and you’ll need to consider how you’re going to haul the equipment around. You may end up having the extra cost of a truck rental added on to your budget, and you’ll have twice as many worries about damages to equipment that you don’t own. Also, you can’t just set up an RV wherever you please and will have to find a campground with free space to accommodate your equipment.

The type of person you are will have a lot to do with whether you’d be more comfortable in an RV or enjoy your camping trip more from the shelter of a tent. Those who like to rough it in the deep woods definitely won’t be able to do so with an RV, and those who prefer living in the lap of luxury will find tents sparse and cramped accommodations. Both styles of camping have their advantages and disadvantages, and its well worth sitting down to take a look at what suits your preferences more.

For more information about RV tips, RV parks and
RV camping please visit Www.RVCampingReview.com

How to Care for Your Tent

Taking proper care of your tent is essential to prolong the life of your tent. If you camp with your family each year then you will want to get the most out of your tent, making it last as long as you can. Depending on where you live, your camping trips may be just a few times in the summer or you may go quite often, starting in the spring. Either way, proper care and storage of your tent will make your tent last for many years. If you neglect caring for your tent you run the risk of it quickly disintegrating and your tent will stop providing adequate coverage from the elements.

Make sure you follow the instructions in the owners manual for proper setup and care regarding your tent. Haphazardly placed poles or unsecured tent pegs will not only lead to damaging the tent, it can cause accidents as well causing the tent to breakdown prematurely. Make sure to carefully and correctly place all the tent pieces in the proper places. Take care to not let your pets lie on the equipment or allow your children to play with the parts of your tent. Store any unused tent fixtures in their protective case or bag to keep them safe and ready for use the next time they are needed.

Do not cook too close to the tent and make sure to place your tent away from the fire. Secure all flaps to prevent them from getting torn when flapping in the breeze or in a thunderstorm, especially if you will be away from the tent and the campsite. Do not let children wrestle near or in the tent and avoid hanging heavy objects from the tent. This could cause the tent to sag and could cause tares. Wipe up spills as soon as they happen using the method suggested in your owners manual.

When your trip has come to an end, take the time needed to take down the tent properly. Ensure that each piece is not pulled out hastily and that all parts are accounted for. Follow your instruction manual for proper folding of the tent. Make sure the tent is dry prior to folding and putting away. Once all of your gear is out of the tent sweep out any dirt or debris. If you are unable to do this at the campsite then simply put the tent up in your yard to clean it out once you are home.

Store the tent as recommended and make sure that it is in a dry cool place away from pest as they can nest inside and possibly eat the fabric. Avoid using chemicals such as pesticides or cleaning products on the tent or near it, as the chemicals could break down the waterproof barrier. In addition they can be toxic to pets and children.

Do not store food in or around the tent perimeter and make sure to never eat inside the tent as well, as this can attract bugs and/or animals. If you have a picnic table at your campsite, then use this for eating; and store all food in your vehicle. Some tents come equipped with a screened room that is good for the use of meal times but be sure to clean up after yourself. You may even want to consider a separate screened room to avoid the pesky pests.

If you have a ground cloth, it is a wise choice to use it. Most of these are made a little smaller then the tent, so be sure to tuck the edge of the tarp or ground cloth under the tent to avoid problems should it rain. Upon returning home from your trip you may want to set up the tent in the yard to make sure it is completely clean and to air it out to prevent the growth of mildew. Try not to store the tent in a stuffed sack, instead store it loosely in a dry, well ventilated area. You can then use the sack to pack the tent when you are ready to use it again.

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/

How to Choose the Right Tent

When shopping for your tent, you will want to look for the tent features that will keep you happy for years to come. After all, your tent is a home away from home so you will want to make the best of it. Make sure you know your spending limit and decide before you go shopping on how much you want to spend. Once you have your budget down, it is time to see what tent features you can afford for your price range.

How big should you go?
Take into consideration on how many people you plan to have sleep in the tent and how you plan to use it. For instance, if you are going to use it for backpacking then you will want to get a lightweight tent, but if it is for family camping then the weight and size are not as important. The tents capacity is based on how many standard-sleeping bags it can hold and the square footage.

You may want to go a little larger then the number of people you plan to sleep in the tent, allowing for some elbow room and room for storing your equipment and gear. When camping with your family it is best to go larger, at least 2 people higher than you will have. Multi room tents are great for families.

The 2-room styles allow the adults to get a bit of privacy from the children. You can also get a 3-room tent, which gives you the 2 sleeping rooms and a screened-in room for setting up an eating or changing area, protecting you further from the elements. There are many options with the multi room tents so no matter what you choose you are sure to be pleased

What to look for?

Tents with fine netting or mesh:
This is especially important for noseeums and mosquitoes. Noseeums are small gnats that are much tinier than mosquitoes so you may have to search a bit for the finer netting, but you will be happy you did.
Tents with aluminum poles:
Most tents may come with fiberglass poles, but they are more likely to break, as they are fragile. Never fear, should you break or get a kink in the pole, you can get a replacement at most any camping store.
Adequate rainfly with the tent:
Your tents umbrella is the rainfly. So the bigger rainfly you get the better off you will be. You will want one that comes down farther on the sides of the tent and not just across the top. These tent umbrellas are waterproof and the walls of the tent are water-repellant.
Double stitching and folded seams:
You want a strong stitch to ensure no leaks, for a good rule of thumb… when you stretch the material at the seams and you can see through it, then this tent will leak. It is helpful to use some sort of seam sealer to add to your protection.
Tents with a floor that is all one piece:
The floors of tents should be made of a waterproof material, and it should be up a few inches on all sides before it is sewed into the walls of the tent. Seams in the floor make you prone to leaks.
Adequate roof vent:
You will want a large enough roof vent, as this is what you will need to keep the tent from getting stuffy. The roof vent allows for good airflow helping to eliminate condensation in the tent.
Tents with larger stake loops:
Every tent should have stake loops located in the center of each side as well as each corner at the base of the tent. The loops should be large enough so that you can use then with the large plastic stakes sold as replacements in camping stores. The best ones are made of material, as the plastic loops can break when putting the stakes in.
Tents with sturdy zippers:
Since you will be in and out of the tent frequently you will want a zipper You’ll be in and out of your tent a lot so you want zippers that will hold up to frequent use.

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/

Modern Camping Equipment Is A Long Way From Roughing It

When someone mentions the word camping, do you think of a chilly night’s sleep on hard ground that usually involves a rock poking into your back? Well, think again. Camping equipment has come a long way since the days of cramped, orange oilcloth tents and sleeping bags that leave you shivering. Popularity has encouraged camping equipment manufacturers to develop their gear so that today’s tents are ultra-light and pack-able, keeping you warm and dry with plenty of room to spare and the sleeping bags you’ll find on store shelves are able to handle even the deepest colds before you feel a shiver.

There are other amenities that can make your camping trip comfortable and even close to luxurious. There’s no need to sleep on the cold, hard ground, as plenty of pack-able sleeping pads and mattresses will give you a great night’s rest, and for those who still yearn for a comfortable bed, there are portable cots complete with mattresses that can easily fit in a car or SUV. While camping is usually considered roughing it and most facilities that provide tent space require that you walk a distance to share public bathrooms, new developments have made it possible to buy small port-a-potties that even flush just like a regular toilet, which makes those midnight trips to the bathroom a breeze.

The lanterns you’ll find on the market have also come a long way from the oil-and-flame relics of decades ago. Rechargeable batteries and halogen bulbs have turned lighting up your camping area easy, and most lanterns have different settings for intense, bright light for the outdoors or softer reading lighting for inside the tent. Other accessories make camping even more pleasurable, including mosquito tents that you can set up over a picnic table for eating in peace, and unbreakable dishes that are nothing like the tin ones our parents used to use. Propane stoves for cooking are now closer to small stoves complete with two to four burners, enough to make a stir fry with chicken, fresh vegetables and a side dish of rice. For coffee cravers, there are drip-style accessories that make having a cup of hot java from fresh grinds easy and quick.

As with anything on the market today, there are varying qualities of camping equipment and prices range from cheap to extremely expensive. The good thing about camping gear is that even the cheapest items are usually just fine for regular vacations and you’ll probably get plenty of wear and tear out of them before they give up the ghost. More than just investing in some camping equipment to keep you comfortable in the wilderness, you’ll also be investing in some memories you’ll be able to share with your family and friends for a long time.

John Edmond writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can read many more articles on camping equipment and camping safety.

A Few Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Camping Experience

When you go camping, you want to have a fun time. You don’t want to have a never ending list of problems to deal with. Well, at least I doubt you do.

Following are helpful tips to ensure a great time in the great outdoors. If you follow these tips, you’re much more likely to have a great trip.

Start by making a checklist so that you won’t forget anything. Nothing can mess up a camping trip like forgetting an important item.

Remember hygiene items like toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, toilet tissue, etc. Baby wipes are another really convenient item to have on-hand. Don’t take more than you need, though, as they are heavy.

Pack warm clothing even if it’s the middle of summer. Nights can tend to get a little chilly out in the woods, especially if you’re camping close to a lake or other body of water.

Check your tent before you leave on your excursion, even it’s brand new. Make sure there are no tears, broken zippers, etc., and if so, repair them. You don’t want your vacation ruined by waking up sopping wet if it were to rain and/or being bombarded by pesky mosquitoes and other insect annoyances either.

Check sleeping bags, air mattresses, pillows and blankets for mold and tears. You should air these items out during your camping trip as well.

Bring bug spray and/or citronella candles/torches, depending on your preference. Bugs can be a real pain on camping trips.

Bring a flashlight and check the batteries before you leave! When you’re out in the woods, there are NO lights…it gets dark!

Be sure to pack a First Aid Kit! If you already have one, check the expirations dates on all the items and replace if necessary. Also learn how to do basic first aid procedures.

Make sure to pack all food properly, perishables in particular.

Don’t forget utensils, charcoal and/or kerosene if you’ll be cooking at your campsite.

If kids are going along, have a talk about rules and safety guidelines both before and after you arrive at your destination.

Once you do arrive at your campsite, keep it clean! Any trash lying around, especially food items, will most likely attract uninvited, unwelcome and possibly unfriendly visitors, like raccoons, bears, etc.

BE SURE to extinguish all unattended fires while on and before ending your camping trip. Be very careful with fire and don’t take any risks - it’s not worth it.

Being properly prepared is the best way to ensure that everyone can relax and enjoy the camping trip. So make your list, check it twice and have a great time in the great outdoors!

Get the outdoor gear you need at Thompson Outdoor Supply. Be sure to check out our Military Survival Gear, too.

Tips On Surviving Blizzards

Nothing is more enjoyable than going out on a snowy day. The scenery of freshly-fallen snow can be absolutely romantic. A day of clean air while sledding, skiing or skating could do your body a world of good - but a good time could quickly take a treacherous turn for the worst, should you find yourself caught in the middle of an unexpected blizzard. Taking a few minutes to make sure you are properly prepared for such an event could make the difference between survival or disaster.

Sometimes, we can’t avoid driving in a snowstorm, but when you’re out on the road in bad weather, you need to be prepared in case you get stuck or have to pull over and wait the storm out. Carry a blanket in your trunk at all times, as you need to stay warm. Don’t scrimp on quality and make sure the blanket is heavy enough to provide plenty of warmth.

If you don’t have the shelter of a car while you’re stuck in a blizzard, it’s important to find some sort of shelter from the elements, especially the wind. Anything that can provide protection from the wind will help, and cover all your exposed skin, including your face, if you can.

If you can’t find shelter, try to build yourself some, by banking up snow or even digging a small cave. Use tree branches or anything else you can find that might be good for a lean-to. Be creative. Also, try to start a fire to help keep you warm and to attract attention.

You have probably heard that you should eat snow to stay hydrated when caught in a blizzard. This advice is actually harmful. If you eat fresh snow, the cold temperature of the snow will lower your body temperature. Your body will need to expend much needed calories to warm up the snow, robbing you of energy that you will need to survive. Snow is, however, a good source of hydration when caught in a snowstorm. What you must do is melt the snow first. Then you can drink the resulting water. The warmer you can make the melted snow, the better off you will be.

Stay inside the car if you can. Your car will be your shelter and your heat source until help arrives. Run the car once an hour for a few minutes (ten at the most) to heat the interior. Don’t waste gas by running the engine much more than that. Clear the snow away from the exhaust or else the fumes can back up into the car. Make sure to move around too, as you need to keep your circulation up to stay warm. When stranded with other people, take advantage of the extra body heat by sticking close.

John Edmond runs writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can read many more articles on outdoor safety and outdoor survival skills.

Camping Gear: What You Need to Know

There’s something about heading off to visit Mother Nature, with nothing but you, lots of trees and a cheerful campfire. It’s the best way to experience total peace and quiet. There are no other people, no smog, nothing to do but relax for the weekend. If this sounds irresistible to you, then make sure you do some planning before you head off.

Check out what sort of camping gear you already have. While you might be keen to escape the modern world, it might not be so much fun if you’re sleeping on hard ground with a thin sleeping bag and it starts to rain. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the gear you need for your great escape into nature. If you look online you’ll find plenty of sites where you can look at camping gear, compare different styles and brands, then buy what’s right for you.

It can be a bit more difficult to know what you need if you’ve never been camping before. Generally, a tent is necessity. You can chance the weather, but that’s only for the very hardy souls! Perhaps if you’re going to be close to some well protected caves you can get away without a tent, but otherwise you’ll be very glad you have one when that thunderstorm rolls in. Persistent insects and wildlife are also less of a nuisance when you’re in a tent.

If you’re planning on cooking any food over the campfire, a good campfire grill makes life much easier. If there are fire restrictions or there’s no wood available for a campfire, then take along a camping stove. You’ll also need some basic cooking utensils, including some pans. Never use your best utensils out of the kitchen; they inevitably get burnt, melted, lost, or almost impossible to clean.

Just in case the stars aren’t sufficient, a strong flashlight with fresh batteries or a camping lantern can help. If you need to go wandering in the night, you’ll want to be able to check out your surroundings. For sleeping, make sure your sleeping bag is suitable for the conditions you’ll be encountering. If you have a lightweight summer bag and it starts to snow, you won’t get much sleep because you’ll be shivering the whole night.

If you’re really planning to get away from the world, to the point that you won’t be near your car at night, then you’ll need a backpack to carry everything with you. Modern designs are truly wonderful, with all sorts of features to make carrying a pack more comfortable. You can find packs suitable for anything you might plan to do, including strolling round a local park right through to heavy trekking in the wilderness. Take the time to think about what you need to use the backpack for, perhaps even visit a camping store and chat to the salesperson, but if you choose wisely you won’t regret it.

Remember, in the end it’s important to travel light when you’re going camping. You don’t want to have so much stuff in your backpack that you can’t even lift it! It’s easy to get carried away and buy far too many things and spend a lot of money, but it doesn’t need to be that way. Take the time to think about the sort of camping you’re likely to do, where you’re likely to go, what the weather conditions will probably be, and then choose carefully. By doing that, you’ll get the maximum use out of whatever camping gear you buy, and so you’ll get great value for money.

Steve Dolan is an avid camper who escapes to the great outdoors at every opportunity. Click on Camping Gear to research the best gear on the web and for great escapes go to Walking and Hiking

Choosing the Right Truck Tent

Perhaps some of the best adventures of traveling cross country are the places you get to sleep. If you are traveling by truck then you will not want to miss out on the great adventures of truck tents. Truck tents are regular full sized tents that fit right into a truck bed. They complete the gap between a tent and a vehicle at the easiest level. These types of tents allow campers to get the feel for the great outdoors while keeping them off the ground. They are a better choice then regular tents as they protect you against some of the natural elements such as dirt, insects, and water.

Most animals both large and small are less likely to bother you while you sleep in your truck tent as most animals will not crawl into a truck bed. Campers who prefer the comfort of being off the ground but still want to experience the great outdoors should definitely consider a truck tent for their traveling adventure.

Trucks tents can be used for more than just camping even though they do give you a great place to lay your head to rest. Truck tents can give you shade, which is especially great for parents of small children. They can give the children a place to get out of the hot sun while fishing at the lake or at the park. Parents can be sure their children are not getting over heated and the children can create magical places inside the truck tent.

Before choosing the truck tent for you and your family you will want to know what tents are available. Below, is a good list to get you started in your journey for the right tent. Make sure you know what budget you have to work with so you will get something that fits your needs and is in your price range.

Super Truck Tents

If you are one of the big boys driving the big trucks, then you can choose from a variety of truck tents to meet your needs. Truck drivers can get models with different luxuries to meet their needs and make them feel more comfortable and at home. These tents come in many different models and will cover the tailgate of the truck bed. This also allows taller people more space to relax.

Regular Truck Tents

Trucks tents are made to fit most any truck bed making them universal. They are simple to set up as the fit right in the bed of the truck with the tailgate down. These tents are made from nylon with the usual mesh windows for good ventilation and zippers for easy access. They are very similar to regular tents. However the regular truck tents only cover the bed of the truck not the tailgate.

Some of the other truck tents even offer awnings that come from the of the top of the tent and are posted behind the truck on the ground. These are great tents that offer people a shaded area for eating or relaxing, while they camp out in the wild.

How to install

Every truck tent should come complete with detailed instructions and pictures to show you how to set up your tent. As always it is very important to read all the instruction and follow the guidelines that are given to you. If you do not install the truck tent according to the directions provided the tent may not be very stable and you can run the risk of the tent breaking or falling off the truck. You should make sure you get a tent that is made especially for your truck as this will ensure proper fit. If you get one that does not fit then you should take it back and get one that fits properly. You can damage the tent if it is not fitted properly..

Always keep your truck engine off when you are sleeping in the back of the truck in your truck tent. You do not want to accidentally run over someone in your party or a fellow camper. Camping in a truck tent can be a great experience and an adventure each time you use it.

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/

Camping with Mosquitoes-How to Avoid your Itchy Friends

When camping with your family, you want to be able to enjoy the great outdoors. You do not want to spend your adventure running away from pesky mosquitoes. Camping with mosquitoes can be a tiring experience but, the good news is that there are ways to get around these itchy critters.

How do you stay away from them in the first place?

When camping with mosquitoes, you want to make sure you take a few precautions to best protect yourself from getting bit. Many people are not aware that bugs have favorite colors just like us. The most common colors that bugs flock to are black and blue. Try to stay away from these colors when dressing for your camping trip. This will help you stay one step ahead of the bugs.

You can also take other precautions with your clothing when packing for your camping trip. Wear shirts and pants with tight cuffs to help keep mosquitoes from getting underneath your clothing and to avoid unwanted guests crawling up your leg. It has also been said that taking garlic supplements will help keep the biters at bay.

Campfires are also great bug foggers. Bugs do not like the smoke, so this is a great natural bug repellant and what better way to make some great memories then sitting around a campfire with your family and friends. Citronella candles are another great repellant but a bit inconvenient at times as you have to stay close to the candle for the full effects.

Try to not camp right next to the water. Most bugs will be nested near the water so its best to set up camp just a bit away from the water. Even though it is very tempting to camp on the waterside, it is much smarter to just move up the road a bit and save yourself the agony of the critters

There are also the ever-famous tools to use when camping with mosquitoes. Such items as bug repellant sprays and lotions are readily available at most any convenience store. You can also buy such items as mosquito coils, and repellant sprays for your cloths, the yard foggers as well as many others. You will have to try and see what works best for you and your family. One of the best on the market is sprays containing Deet. Many people do not like the high concentration of the chemical so they do not apply this to children.

Mosquitoes are the biggest problem people have when camping. Getting things under control with the pesky critters will make your trip all the more worthwhile. Make sure you have the proper tents to keep the bugs outside. There are many tents on the market today but you want to be sure to get one that has the mesh vented windows. If the mesh or netting is to large the bugs will fly right in at night and have a feast on you and your family. Therefore, it is best to treat the area prior to setting up camp with a yard fogger. You may also want to check for nests such as wasps or bees, around the tent area. Most campgrounds offer spray to help you get rid of the unwanted guests.

Once you have given the campsite a once over, it is time to set up the tents to give the sprayed areas a chance to air out. It is also recommended to wash any areas where you will be storing your food items and where you will be eating. It might also be helpful to light a few repellant coils upwind of the campsite at night to help ward off bugs while sleeping.

There is no cure to getting rid of these pests all together but with the use of the repellants and coils you can cut down on the amount you have, considerably. When buying your tent, you will want to be sure that it has the proper screens on all doors and windows. You can also bring along a screened canopy. This is great for when you are sitting down to eat. Set up is easy and can be put most anywhere, helping you create a bug free zone to spend your waking hours while outside.

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/

Camping: How Not To Get Cold, Wet And Muddy!

For many people camping in the great outdoors is a fantastic and uplifting experience. For some it is plain hell. This Article takes a look at some reasons why - and what to do to put things right!

Some years ago a friend suggested we go on a camping trip. He’d just bought a new tent and was bursting to ‘christen’ it somewhere. At that time I’d never been camping in my life so I agreed and off we went.

Just to show the depth of our lack of know-how, we chose to go to the English Lake District in February. I’ll say no more - ask anyone who’s been there at the tail end of winter! Suffice it to say we arrived pretty wet and cold (we both rode motorcycles back then) and hurriedly pitched the tent then scurried off to the nearest pub to thaw out.

We got back and what followed was probably one of the worst nights I have ever spent. I was freezing and the thin sleeping bag I had was useless. I think I managed to get to sleep at about 5a.m. - sheer exhaustion claiming me.

When I woke I glanced at the radium dial on my watch. It was 9.30a.m. - and still pitch black. I couldn’t figure this out so opened the tent flap to discover about four inches of snow were covering us!

My friend woke up, teeth chattering. We ‘discovered’ quite quickly that we had -

No stove
No matches
No food worth a damn
No drinks
No dry clothes

All I can say in our defence is that we a were very young!

We packed up the tent as fast as we could and headed home, blue with cold and swearing never to go camping again. It was in fact some time before I did - but it was with someone this time who knew what they were doing. What a difference!

My first two times camping taught me a very important thing. It brought home the fact that, being accustomed to a cosy home and a nice warm bed, I hadn’t the first clue how to stay comfortable in the great outdoors. Why should I? As a product of modern civilization My habits were ingrained by a lifetime of relative ease.

And yet it’s just as easy to stay dry and warm when camping, except in the severest of weather - and even then you can get by. It’s all down to knowhow. I’m not talking about being a ‘wilderness expert’ or having the survival skills of a member of the SAS either. It’s just knowing a few points on living outdoors and applying them.

So how do you learn these points? Well, you can either do as I did (no please don’t do that!) or you can read up on it or join an outdoor centre or group. A lot if it lies in the ability to ‘think outside the box’ of modern urban living - the creature comforts we all take pretty much for granted. Manage to do this and you won’t be wet, cold and muddy!

So don’t let my first experience put you off. Choose a nice summer night, stay somewhere not too far from habitation and assimilate the necessary know-how before you leave. I’m sure that then you will enjoy your camping experience and it will become for you, as it has for so many, a lifelong passion.

Steve Dempster writes articles such as the one above as part of his working day. Learn more about how to enjoy camping or visit his walking website for tips on walking generally.

What To Do If You Get Lost While Hiking

Ever have this feeling?: That tree looks a little familiar… or maybe not. Have you passed that bush already? Hey, where’d that rock come from? That wasn’t there the last time. You could keep going, but the sun’s sinking fast and it will be dark soon. Face it, you’re lost.

You may have even had this experience happen to you, but you have always managed to find your course again with no problem. This time, though, the fear is nearly choking and it is not the situation you hoped you would be in. Relax. There are still a few things you can do to get your bearings again. Take a deep breath, clear your head and follow these steps.

First, it is very wise for you to take every precautionary measure you can to make sure you do not get lost in the first place. It does sound overly simple, but hikers often get lost due to poor planning. Be sure that you take a map with you. Make sure that it is an updated map, as trails and landmarks often change.

Bring two compasses with you. Many hikers have doubted their compass, so it is a good idea to have another one to compare it to. If they are both saying the same thing, trust them! If you have no prior experience with a compass, you can most likely find out all that you need to know at a local community center or outdoor store. Before you embark on your journey, you need to study a map of the area you will be traveling. Get to know the trails, streams, and mountains that will make up the land you are traveling.

It is also vitally important to tell someone you know that you are going to be hiking. This is important because it ensures that someone will notice your absence if you are lost for an extended period of time. You do not want to be missing without someone knowing that you are missing! Tell your family or friends exactly where you are going, and how long you plan to be there.

As you hike, take notice of all of the topography around you. Pay attention to ridges, summits, rivers, etc. These natural reference points just may end up saving your life. Again, make good use of your map and compasses. You have them, so use them. If you find yourself even the slightest bit unsure of where you are, access your map. Hikers often dig themselves a deeper hole by thinking that they can fix the situation on their own. Use the tools that you bring with you.

If you do find that you are becoming disoriented, stop. Take out your map and search your surroundings for a familiar landmark. Most of the time, people are able to regain their sense of direction by taking five minutes to study their map and surroundings. Five minutes is all it can take to prevent the situation from escalating into a more serious, dangerous matter.

If you have already tried backtracking to locate familiar landmarks and have had no success, S.T.O.P. - stop, think, observe and plan. Don’t go any further and stay where you are. Getting distracted and changing your direction will only make things worse, so stay focused and calm. Panic will use up stores of energy that you might need later on.

If you have a whistle, blow it at timed intervals to alert rescuers. If you have to, start gathering materials for a rescue signal. At the very least it will keep you occupied and at the most you will have made something that rescuers could spot easily.

As with anything, the right amount of preparation, planning, and precautions will help you to avoid getting lost while hiking. If you do get lost, knowing what to do means you will have a better chance of being found or finding your way back. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best, as the saying goes. Knowledge is power and armed with that fact, you should have an enjoyable hiking experience.

John Edmond runs and writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can find more articles on hiking safely and outdoor survival. Also go to Well Spoken Audio for a range of entertaining audiobooks on walking and hiking and much more.

The Do’s And Don’ts Of Desert Survival

Should you find yourself lost or stranded in the desert, your ability to survive will depend on how quickly you can find a source of water. Most of us take water for granted; it’s always there in convenient, little plastic bottles at the corner store or our own refrigerators. Not so in the middle of the desert. The hot sun, dry air, and lack of shade can suck every bit of moisture from your body without you realizing it. Unless you’re a camel or a Joshua tree, your chances of going for any long term period of time without hydration are pretty slim.

In the desert, shelter might be difficult to find. If you can, look for an outcropping of rocks that cast a shadow for some shade, or if you have a blanket, use that as a lean to for shade against the sun. The idea is to keep those burning rays off of your body until nightfall when you can move on. The desert is so dry that you might not realize exactly how hot it is until it’s too late, and then heat exhaustion sets in. Stay covered as best as you can.

If you find that you are stranded in the desert for a prolonged period, adjust your sleeping schedule to make yourself nocturnal. While in your shaded refuge, take inventory of the survival supplies that you have. When traveling in the desert, you should carry a penknife, water purification tablets, something small to store water, small first aid kit, mirror, rope or chord, and a space blanket. Also, while you are waiting for nightfall, look for water sources.

If you have a space blanket, your first job once the sun sets is to set up a lean-to using your chord and any available trees, cacti, or rocks. If you have water with you, you need to ration it carefully. Do not drink more than you must have. The best way to judge if your water intake is sufficient is through the color of your urine. If it is excessively dark, you are not getting enough water.

Now you are ready to look for water. If you see any dry streambeds, dig at the lowest, outside point. Make sure you do this at night! If you have a plastic bag on your person, wrap it around the limb of a tree or bush that is exposed to the sun. As the sun warms the bag, it will cause the plant to transpire, and you will be able to collect the resulting water.

Finally, if you have a good knife, you can cut open cactus plants and squeeze water out of the moist flesh inside. Use caution when working with cacti since they are full of painful spines. The easiest cactus to use for water procuring is the prickly pear. You can burn off the thorns and then eat the meat of the plant. It is sweet and full of needed moisture.

John Edmond writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can read many more articles on outdoor living and safe camping.

How I Safely Build a Fire

Ah, autumn! That time of year when you can smell that cold chill in the core of the air and you know that winter isn’t too far off. Nothing beats a crystal clear blue sky, the crunch of leaves beneath your feet and the sounds of geese starting their long trek south. In celebration of this turning of the seasons, I decided to invite several close friends over for a small party.

We’d maybe start with a blood-pumping game of football, complete with spiced cider and hot chocolate on the sidelines. After that, perhaps there would be offerings of hot dogs and s’mores over an open campfire. Of course, my wife agreed that the food and football would be feasible, but when it came to the fire part, I got one of those looks that said, “You’ve got to be kidding me.” Apparently, a New York boy couldn’t possibly have fire building in his repertoire. I rose to the challenge. I would have a roaring bonfire capable of warming a small, third-world nation!

I started the process by recruiting my four-year old son to help me build an adequate dwelling for the fire. I did this because I remembered accidentally overhearing somebody who knew something about the outdoors say that it is very important to contain the fire, so that there is nothing close to it that might catch fire.

If a fire is built too close to bushes, trees, or people wearing clothing made of hemp, there is always a chance that the blaze could spread. Since we live in an area so heavily wooded that I sometimes get lost checking the mail, I figured that it would be wise to prevent the fire from spreading if it happened to be feeling frisky. We were fortunate enough to have several large stones at our disposal, so we placed them in a circle on our lawn.

I soon found myself obsessed with the idea of building more than just a house for the fire - I now wanted to create an altar of biblical proportions. I somehow convinced myself that we would need something large enough to hold a fire capable of roasting a wild boar.

Remembering that we would be cooking hot dogs and marshmallows instead of boars, I soon ditched my brief woodsman fantasy and got back in touch with reality. My son and I settled for a nice, little rock wall, about two feet high. It would more than suffice in containing our blaze.

That was when I came to speed bump number two; I had never started a fire before - at least not on purpose. Sticks, I thought. Two sticks rubbed together would work, because if MacGyver could do it, so could I. It turned out not to be as easy as it looked and less than thirty seconds of stick-rubbing later, I piled my son into the car and we were off to WalMart.

After picking up such modern conveniences as cedar blocks and lighter fluid, we headed back and tried starting our fire again. In the space of a few hours, we had the fire going. The weather turned out to be perfect, unusually cool for the time of year, and the party was a success.

Of course I wouldn’t have put any Neanderthals to shame, but for a guy from the urban jungles of Central Park, I had to admit what I’d done wasn’t half bad. Now the leaves of autumn are buried beneath the encroaching winter, but that rock wall my son and I built together is still standing. Every so often I find myself fighting the urge to remind my wife who built it.

John Edmond runs and writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can read many more articles on camp fires and outdoor living skills. Also go to Well Spoken Audio for a range of entertaining audiobooks on sports and much more.

Camping is Quality Family Time

A lot of families today are looking for a way to reconnect with their children. A great way to disconnect from the wear and tear of daily life is to pull up stakes, pack some tents and a cooler and head out camping. The break from electronics and the letting go of pressures to run free in the outdoors is a fantastic gift to give your children, and camping will most likely leave an impression of fond memories with your kids for years to come.

Camping is a simple, natural way of providing this quality time for your children. The fast-paced action of television and the video games that are played for hours at a time are gone, left well behind at home and replaced with the great outdoors, trees and sometimes even a lake or beach. The novelty of having absolute freedom a camping trip provides can often be exhilarating for kids, and more often than not, parents won’t hear much complaint as the camping site and its surroundings are scoped out and explored.

Changing environments changes behaviours and you’ll probably be surprised to see a different attitude from your children once the camping trip begins. Usually, kids are pretty thrilled to pitch in with daily chores and simple tasks they would have normally turned their noses up at home.

It’s amazing how we take things like dishwashers for granted and washing cutlery in a plastic pan with water hauled over in a bucket can become a novel experience for kids. Not only that, they’ll be learning that they certainly can make do without most of today’s luxuries.

Another thing that’s amazing about camping is that you’ll find your kids enthusiastic to visit places and scope out attractions. Walks in the woods become amazingly important, and trips to the grocery store a focused affair as kids try to help choose what would be interesting to cook for supper.

Your children will also learn new skills as you model practical independence by building a small campfire at night and make hot chocolate before their very eyes with water heated from hot cinders. They’ll be able to discover that not having electrical appliances isn’t the end of the world and that bed hair and no makeup is perfectly acceptable attire.

While camping, your children will discover facets of their parents they never knew of, and parents will also see that their children, away from home and in the fresh air and sun of the outdoors, really aren’t video-addicted creatures with no more motivation than the newest Xbox game or latest DVD out on store shelves. Camping trips can strip away the craziness of a fast-paced, throwaway society, revealing good natured people enjoying life and each other’s company just because they can.

John Edmond runs and writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can read many more articles on camping and outdoor living skills. Also go to Well Spoken Audio for a range of entertaining audiobooks on family camping and much more.

Your Camping Trip Safety

While you’re away from home on your camping vacation, remember that safety and first aid becomes even more important. Accidents can happen during your camping trip that you may have to deal and being prepared for cuts, scrapes and injuries is very important, as well as knowing what to do in case of an emergency.

Every camper should have a first aid kit and survival aids packed alongside their tents and coolers, and it’s a wise thing to know something about handling injuries and the people that are suffering from them.

To increase your camping safety and keep your grounds as accident-free as possible, begin by walking the area and looking for hazards such as broken glass, sticks jammed into the ground at dangerous angles, slippery spots to avoid or rocky areas that could be dangerous in a fall. If there is deadfall on the ground, remove as much as possible and clear the area.

Accidents such as being jabbed by a branch during a fall could be avoided by a little prevention. During your stay, always try to keep safety in the forefront by making sure you’re handling your equipment carefully and clearly marking ropes that can be a trip hazard with colored fly tape. Another good way of ensuring safety around your campsite is putting things away once you’re done using them. A cluttered camping area has plenty of potential for small accidents that can cause a lot of grief.

If you’re planning on building camp fires for warmth, enjoyment or cooking, be smart, wary and safe. Find out if there are any restrictions for the time of year or dryness in the region - many areas don’t permit fires when there has been a recent dry spell and the spread of fires is a concern. Avoid building fires on a windy day, as the breeze can transport smouldering ashes and start them burning elsewhere.

If you know it’s safe to build a fire and it’s not a windy day, do make sure you have a proper fire pit dug out and ringed with stones. Containing and controlling your flame is extremely important. Always have a bucket of water handy, as fires can get out of control very quickly - and you’ll need to extinguish your fire properly before turning in. Letting a fire die down unsupervised is asking for trouble.

Wilderness camping can be one that holds a lot of risk for injuries. Accidents are never expected to happen but even the most cautious camper can end up in an emergency situation and needing quick help.

First aid courses can provide you with the know-how to deal with concussion or severe cuts, and the amount of time it takes from your schedule usually isn’t more than a weekend. The advantages to being able to provide quick, proper emergency care out in the woods, where qualified help and sometimes hospital resources aren’t available, is a must for anyone planning a camping trip.

While there are a lot of things you can do to keep your camping trip safe and pleasant for everyone, staying aware of potential hazards can mean the difference between needing stitches and bringing back good memories.

Learning good first aid skills and getting into the good habit of keeping your campsite clean and safe is never a wasted effort. No one wants to have accidents or emergency situations happen and avoiding them is the best prevention of all.

John Edmond runs and writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can find more articles on mountain safety and outdoor survival. Also go to Well Spoken Audio for a range of entertaining audiobooks on camping and much more.

Creating A Signal For Survival

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure and that saying goes double when you’re planning a trip into the great outdoors. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to leave word with someone before you leave about where you will be going and at what time you plan to return.

Should you find yourself stranded in the outdoors, the key to your rescue is your ability to create good signals for potential rescuers to see. The first thing you should do is light a fire. A large fire creates a signal in the daylight and darkness of night. At night, choose kindling for a fire that does not create a lot of smoke.

Create three fires in the outline of a triangle, because if these are seen from the air they will be recognized as the symbol for distress, and will be less likely to be mistaken for a simple campfire. When choosing the location for your fire, make sure it is an open location without a lot of foliage blocking the view. Also, have water on hand should the fire spread beyond your control. A raging forest fire would endanger your life and make rescue impossible.

If there is an isolated tree nearby, you can create a tree torch by setting it on fire. If it is a pitch-bearing tree, you simply have to ignite the tree. If it is not pitch bearing, pile dry kindling around the tree and ignite it. The kindling fire will spread to the foliage of the tree. Keep your tree torch burning by adding to it as it consumes the tree.
Keep the home fires burning; you’ll need fire night and day. At night, it’s obvious that the light will attract rescuers. During the day, when the firelight is less visible, you can still attract attention using smoke. Add green kindling or grass to your fire, or if they’re available, try using evergreen boughs, which will produce a thick, dark smoke sure to catch someone’s attention.

Another way to signal for help is to signal to low-flying aircraft. Using a mirror reflecting the sunlight, you can flash the S-O-S symbol at low-flying aircraft. Avoid flashing the mirror directly at the cockpit, as that will cause the pilot to have difficulty seeing. At night or in times when there is not a lot of sunlight, the same affect can be accomplished using a strong flashlight. Always carry a flashlight and extra batteries when venturing outdoors.

If none of these techniques work, use brightly-colored clothing to attract attention. Hang a bright scarf or coat from the top of a high tree, or arrange clothing in a pattern on the ground to draw attention from the air. Do not leave yourself too vulnerable to the elements by removing too much clothing though.

You can even create signals using natural materials, such as tree branches or rocks, that can be viewed from the air. Try spelling out S-O-S or HELP with rocks or branches. Remember to use a material that will stand in contrast to your surroundings. If there is snow on the ground, walk in the snow to form the letters, and fill in the path with dark material, like rocks or tree branches.

Creativity is the key. Use whatever resources you have available to create something that is out of the ordinary in the surrounding landscape. The idea is to get any observers to stop and take a closer look. Safety is still the ultimate goal, though. You don’t want to create a signal that will threaten the safety of you or anyone else. Do your best to find something to drink, food, and shelter from the elements, and create a good signal to attract help so that you can soon be on your way.

John Edmond runs and writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can find more articles on signal fires and outdoor survival. Also go to Well Spoken Audio for a range of entertaining audiobooks on survival and much more.

Which Is It To Be: Renting An RV Or Camping In Tents?

Camping is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can choose a destination you’ve never been to and discover the sights and attractions around it or get back to nature for some real rest and relaxation. Choosing what type of camping you’d like to do is part of your holiday planning, and you may find yourself wondering if you should be outdoorsy and use tents or go for comfortable accommodations and rent an RV.

Kitting yourself out with some good-quality, solid camping equipment and tents can set you back a few hundred dollars. The advantage to camping with tents is that you’ll be investing in long-term equipment that will serve you vacation after vacation and will last many years if well maintained.

Tents, sleeping bags and mattresses have come a long way and you’ll find the equipment light, easily transportable and quick to set up. The disadvantage to camping with tents is that you’re more at mercy of the elements, and a few days of rain can leave you slightly damp and humid. Space is also problematic, even though today’s tents have expanded to fit eight to twelve people.

Camping with tents also means that you’ll have to make arrangements for bathroom facilities and washing up. Most campgrounds offer public washrooms with toilets and showers, but many people consider the walk to the facilities an inconvenience. Also, the cleanliness of campground washrooms is important for personal hygiene.

With an RV rental, you’ll have good solid shelter, leg- and head-room, and you’ll have the comfort of tables, benches and proper sleeping accommodations. There’s very little set up involved with an RV, as you’re basically just parking the vehicle and hooking it up to the camping installation’s amenities.

The added advantage of having the conveniences of a shower, a bathroom and hot water at your disposal is often appreciated. However, RV rentals can be pricey and you’ll need to consider how you’re going to haul the equipment around. You may end up having the extra cost of a truck rental added on to your budget, and you’ll have twice as many worries about damages to equipment that you don’t own. Also, you can’t just set up an RV wherever you please and will have to find a campground with free space to accommodate your equipment.

It’s up to you to decide if you’re the kind of person that prefers all the creature comforts or that enjoys feeling as close to nature as possible. There’s a style of camping for everyone and trying to force someone who likes space and conveniences into a tent won’t work, the same way that taking someone who likes the outdoors and shuns modern life won’t enjoy being contained in an RV. Think over what each option can offer you and try to determine what type of accommodations are best for you on your camping trip.

John Edmond runs and writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can find more articles on tents and outdoor activities. Also go to Well Spoken Audio for a range of entertaining audiobooks on camping in tents and much more.

Your Guide To Mountain Survival

Why climb the mountain? Because it’s there! North America’s many mountainous regions hold a certain fascination for numerous people on vacation from around the world. But every year, thrill seekers are hurt and sometimes killed from accidents that have happened while traversing these mountains. Most of the time, if precautions are taken, you can keep you and your family safe.

If you are going to be traveling in the mountains, there are a few things to consider before you head out, to ensure you are safe should a problem arise. First, dress in layers. One of the main difficulties when traveling through higher altitudes is the huge variance in temperature that you will face. Should you be stranded in the mountains at night, it can become very cold. To avoid problems that come as a result of the weather, dress warmly but in layers that can be removed if it becomes too warm.

Before leaving, make sure that someone knows where you are heading, and when you expect to be back. This is crucial to your rescue if you should become lost. If there is someone expecting you to be back at a certain day and time and you do not return, a search party can begin. However, if no one knows where you are and when to expect you, then it may be weeks before they start looking.

One item that is indispensable on any outdoor excursion is a pocket knife. You can mark your trail by carving a notch ever few feet into a tree or a rock so that if you ever do get lost, you’ll have a trail to follow back home. Marking your trail clearly is important, as sometimes it is all too easy to get turned around and end up walking in circles.

Always travel with a flashlight and extra batteries. Also, make sure you take waterproof matches along with you. A space blanket and a small tarp are essential to your survival in the mountain wilderness. Bring along some water purification tablets in case you should need to search for something to drink. A container that can hold water is also a must.

If you do find that you are lost in the mountains and do not know how to return to where you came from, the best thing to do is to stay where you are. If you move around, you will be harder to find when rescue comes. However, if you are near a stream and you feel you must keep moving, head downstream. This will take you towards the bottom of the mountain, which is usually closer to a road or town.

If you can find shelter where you are, stay put and get out of the elements. Leave a marker, like a brightly colored jacket or tarp, so that rescuers might find you. Then you need to get into shelter.

Stay away from any animals you might encounter. The animal you will be most likely to encounter is a bear. Whatever you do, do not surprise an unsuspecting bear! Catching a bear off guard is the reason for most bear attacks.

The most important thing if you become lost and need to survive is to stay hydrated. Having a source of water available at all times is key. Food can be easily found by observing the local wildlife to see where the animals might go to find nuts or berries. Out in the wild, you can live for up to three weeks without food, but you can only survive for three days without water.

John Edmond runs and writes regularly for Living And Camping Outdoors where you can find more articles on mountain safety and outdoor survival. Also go to Well Spoken Audio for a range of entertaining audiobooks on mountain survival and much more.

How To Decide On The Right Foods And Cooking Accessories For Camping

Camping is a great way to get away from stress and get back to nature. Planning what to bring on the trip may seem difficult because aside from the regular gear that you will need, you also have to consider what type of food to bring and what tools you will need to prepare it. There are ways to make planning your camping menus a lot easier.

What Cooking Tools Do I Need?

There are a few basic tools that every camper should bring with them. One of them is a camp stove, so you will be able to prepare hot meals. There are various kinds to choose from.

The best kind to get is one that allows you to adjust the heat, so that you will be able to boil, simmer and fry. The next thing that you will need is a good set of cookware. Depending on what you will be cooking, you should be sure to include a pot to boil water in and a fry pan. You will also need to bring a lot of water with you, not only to cook with but also to drink.

What Types of Food Should I Bring?

Since camping may also include a lot of physical activity, such as hiking, boat rowing or swimming, it’s important to keep your strength up by eating 3 meals a day.

Breakfast: Include milk, so that you can have cold cereal in the morning. If you prefer a hot breakfast, brings eggs, since they are a good source of protein and easy to cook. You can either fry them or boil them.

Lunch: For lunch, you might want to make sandwiches. Instead of bringing a loaf of regular bread that can be easily crushed, consider tortillas or pita bread. Another bonus to bringing this type of bread is that they are flat, so they are easy to pack. If you don’t want to bring cold cuts, consider peanut butter as an alternative. It’s easy to pack and provides a good source of protein.

Dinner: Dinner will probably be your biggest meal. Some people like to fish when they go camping and plan to eat their catch, while others have to rely on what they bring. Good dinner foods to bring with you are dried beans, cheese, rice or couscous and bouillon cubes. Beans are an excellent source of protein and rice and couscous provide energy giving carbs. You can simmer beans and rice or add extra water and bouillon cubes to make a hearty soup. Bring a small collection of spices with you, like salt, pepper, garlic powder or other spices that you enjoy to season your food with.

By planning easy meals to prepare on your camping trip, you will be able to eat well while enjoying getting back to nature.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as RV Accessories and Camping at http://www.rvandcampingplus.com

If You Are Into Camping You Should Consider The New Clip Flashlight Tent

If your tired of lugging those big bulky tents around. If you ever dreaded putting the tent away, then you will love the new clip flash light tent. Updated in 2005 by Sierra Designs it now weighs a mere 41/2 pounds. This tiny lightweight tent is for two people that prefer to sleep “close” but most liked for solo campers.

The tent has 32 square foot of space, 89 inches long, 58 inches wide, 43 inches tall. This tent comes equipped with ultra fresh, cam-loc, swift clips, lightweight fly material, zipper pulls, gear pockets, and fast pack footprint compatible. Everything you want and need in a good tent to enjoy your camping experience because no one wants to spend all day putting up a tent. So enjoy your camping and the outdoors.

If you’ve ever had a leaky tent then you know how miserable it can be, with the clip flashlight you will never have to worry about cold breezes or rain because the clips vestibule will keep you dry and warm during those rainy days. This tent has a full 360 mesh and is great for solo campers, two people, cyclists, or anyone that enjoys the outdoors even when it is raining or a bit chilly. You’ll enjoy the comfort inside these tents with a safe shelter from rain and cold; enjoy the wonderful newly designed clip flash light tent designed with the camper in mind. So you can enjoy yourself while your enjoying the outdoors.

Many great reviews were done on the Clip flashlight tent. Cyclists loved it for the portability and solo campers loved it for the lightweight easy set up and take down. So if you want great quality at a great price you can find this product in almost any sporting good store. Pick up one of these great camping accessories and enjoy camping without the hassle of the big bulky tent.

If you feel better shopping online there are many licensed online retailers. These great tents come in olive and white; if you need any accessories you can find those again at your local sporting good store or at your licensed online retailer. It’s easy, light weight, and convenient so get yourself a clip tent and beat the hassle of bulky hard to pack away tents or tents that leak when the rain comes. Enjoy this newly designed product from Sierra Designs because it is one of the best known company’s in providing outdoor accessories. Making sure that your camp experience is fun and enjoyable with the clip flashlight. It is an affordable tent for those out doors people that want a quality tent for just the right price.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as the Latest, Cool Gadgets at http://www.gadgetdiscounters.com

Back to Nature and Beautiful Views At Ojo Redondo Campground in Cibola National Forest