What do you do on a solo camping trip?

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Simba

I'm sure this has probably been asked before, but I'll ask again. I like to go camping, but my friends don't so I usually go alone. But it's sort of boring going alone. But I still like being outdoors and away from the fast moving noisy city. On my past camping trips I've done a little hiking. I've looked up some camping recipes (before leaving home) and tried them out. Or sometimes I'll just read by the campfire.

I think I would enjoy it more if I understood my surroundings better. I would like to get into bird watching, or learning to identify flora I see. I think I would enjoy taking up outdoors photography. But I'm not sure where to start with any of this stuff. I'm still a relative novice at camping and don't know much of anything about birds, trees or plants.

So what type of things do you do while solo camping? Or how should I get started with some of my interests.

If it makes a difference, I usually just camp at a regular campsite at a park (I don't want to go too remote until I have more experience.) But I tent camp, and don't have electricity.

Answer
Try one thing at a time...learning flora...then fauna...then identifying birds. Here are some things my friends and I do when camping:
Hiking (like you do already)
Fishing (probably need a license)
Taking pics of sunrises & sunsets & local wildlife.
Set up a hammock, and listen to the wind and birds.
Practice making fire 'the old fashioned way' without starters, matches, etc....just for the heck of it, never know if it will come in handy some time in the future.
Learn about survival tactics in the wild (should you get lost, hurt or stranded some day).
Explore other campgrounds & parks
Get a good dog and take him camping with you. Walks and camping are great with medium sized dogs... like a Jack Russell, Rat Terrier, Miniature Pincher, Cocker Spaniel, Australian Shephard...etc.
Play fetch or frisbee with the dog. Share hot dogs with him :)
Take binoculars and watch wildlife & birds.
Make friends with other campers your age....might become something you make plans for to meet up and do in the future.
Just enjoy the peace and quiet.
Learn to write or draw, using nature as your inspiration...do it in a journal.
Take pics to put in a journal or scrapbook to add to your writing.
Use your imagination...the possibilities are endless....

What should I do with my dog when I go to a restaurant?

:)

I am going camping with my dog soon and we normally go to a restaurant. Unfortunately, there are NO dog friendly restaurants where I'm going. We are staying in a tent at a campground, so I couldn't leave my dog in the tent. What should I do with her? I can't leave her in the car because it will be hot (like 80 degrees).

Any ideas?

Answer
i guess you'll be eating hot dogs and snores around the campfire.

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What does your bug out bag consist of?

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Winobot Du

I have decided to put together a bug out bag for a SHTF situation, and figured it would be a good idea to see what other people have so i dont forget something that would be useful. I have two US surplus day packs i will probably fill up. What do you have in yours and what is the bag?

Answer
I use many duffel bags that i got for free, and one wooden ammo case that I refinished. I also have a few unmarked cardboard boxes.
my BOB is something I stick into the minivan and get out of town asap. I have no plans to hike out of town, I live in the middle of a large city.

12 MREs handpicked, all my favorite menus
32 bottles of water- Kirkland 16.9 FL oz each
various meal bars from the supermarket
tablets for purifying water
funny purple tablets for cooking with (military surplus), I bought lots and lots.
mountain house dehydrated foods, 36 units, favorites only
water filter
2x collapsible 2L water bags
2x military OD green plastic canteens
titanium knife-fork-spoon utensil
as many matchbooks as I can cram into a 1 gallon zip lock bag
several cheap Bic lighters
metal camping cooking pot + lid
collapsible cooking rack that I made from aluminum

$200 in cash, $10s and $20s
one roll silver quarters (face value = $10, worth $130)
1 carton Grand Prix menthol cigarettes - for trade,sale, or personal use.
1 bag rolling tobacco, lots of paper slips for rolling. - for sale, trade, or personal use

a 3.2 million volt stun gun and LED flashlight
AK bayonet, Yugo style
mini crowbar, 18"
a FAK (I call it a field aid kit) I'm still adding stuff to it

3x15 min road flares
2x30 min road flares
3x coast guard approved signal flares
Camping Gaz piezoelectric 80W blue butane lamp
2x blue butane bottles (for the lamp)
1 wooden ammo case that holds lots and lots of glow sticks, and anything else fragile. its has tons of padding, it was designed to take a 33 foot fall without any glow sticks breaking. 33feet is because that's the highest I test the case falling. I threw it off the roof to the cold, hard concrete driveway below. I think its 33 feet, I'm really bad at math.
1 5x night vision monocular, waterproof
20 CR123 batteries
1x LED Lenser P7 flashlight,
3x AAA battery packs
1x trusty old Ti83 calculator sealed in plastic (to make water proof)
1- 4 man Coleman tent
2 sleeping bags (in case I bring someone with me)

all local area maps
spare battery pack (external, 12V) for GPS with hand crank charger (something I rigged up)
12 BLM maps covering everything within 150 miles of my house
1 really obsolete 1978 detailed street map book of LA and Orange county - something my parents uses, i have it in case the gps breaks. I am not buying a new one, even if they're still in print.
1 book detailing wilderness survival
1 book detailing auto repair and troubleshooting
1 clear plastic ruler
1 book detailing medial aid
4 compasses- in case one broke.

for defensive purposes, my vehicle may be attacked, ambushed, or mobbed depending on the situation, I must be prepared for that.
a simple cardboard box holds 10x 30rd AK magazines, 12 clips of russian light ball for my mosin nagant, 5 clips of Czech AP for my mosin nagant, 35- 20 ga #3 buck, 50- 20 ga 3/4 oz slugs, orange and grey smoke emitters, two bricks of .22lr, various fireworks or firecrackers I believe may be used, and two machetes- one cheap walmart one for chopping and one expensive Ontario knife one for sawing. that would be put up front next to me between my passenger.
the few cardboard boxes part of my BOB holds even more ammo. 960 rounds of 7.62x39mm, 370 rounds 7.62x54mmr, 3660 rounds .22lr, 182 #7.5 birdshot, and many, many, many "firecrackers".

the BOB is to get out of the city into the forests and be able to live out there for at least 2 months with occasional ventures into the city for more supplies and such.

Tent camping with air conditioning?

Luo

i love to camp, but hate sleeping in the heat which limits me to camp during the cooler months (not june,july,aug,sept). does anyone camp with a portable air conditioner? If so what brand/model/price? I'm looking for one that is pretty less than 70lbs and is pretty quiet.

Answer
We also camp with an AC. I use a portable AC and I found it on sale for about $350. The window units are the cheaper way to go for sure. I don't use my portable for just camping so that is why I spent the extra $$.

Just FYI: The portable units go inside the tent with you so it does take up space. Just zip the tent door up around the vent hose (mine is about 5 inch in diameter) and there are no gaps. Most of your portables have a holding tank that collects the condensation and when those 'little' tanks are full, the unit will shut off. I had to do a little inventing so the water would drain into a larger container so I didn't have to empty the tank in the middle of the night.

Window units can be tricky if you only have one door to your tent. Each time in & out you have to step over/around the unit and your tent door won't zip very snug to the unit. Bring an extra sheet or something to fill in the gaps or look into the AC Boot mentioned earlier. It looks like it would be great!

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Is it legal to camp in a tent on the beach of Lake Michigan?

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Danielle

My boyfriend and I are poor college students, so we're trying to find a very cheap but relaxing activity for a short weekend summer getaway. We would love to pitch a tent on the beach of Lake Michigan (near the Grand Haven area) but we're not sure if that's legal or not. We're not planning to start a bonfire or anything, we just want to hang out for a night on the beach. Will we risk getting arrested or anything?

If that's a no-go, anyone have any other relatively inexpensive vacation suggestions?

Answer
i dont know... but im sure if you call an office for lake michigan they will tell you, and if it is legal it may not be too cheap.

Cheapest way to live while a home built?

DEB

We are buying 6 acres in Michigan..is it possible to like build a small room..maybe the size of 2 bedrooms to live in while the house is being built? What would be the easiest way to go? Some have said a pole barn..we don't mind the small space because the house could take 2 years to build.
It wouldn't be possible to live in a tent in Michigan..Winters are brutal here. We plan to take our time building. A trailer is an option.

Answer
Buy a tent and camp on your property

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What to bring on a bicycle trip from ohio to california?

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Jericho

I have a trek 4300 series mountain bike, is this a good bike to use? I intend to camp both legally and illegally. How to train. I also wish to ride back. Thank you:)

Answer
Tips:-

1) I keep my toilet roll and handwash together in a plastic zip bag. Then I always wash my hands when I go to the loo - no germs, you don't get ill

2) The antibac dry handwash I use requires no water and I use it all the time - all the time before eating or handling food, again no germs you don't get ill.

3) I have one stuff sack that I keep all my stuff that I need in the lodge of an evening (toilet roll, book, hat, gloves, mp3 player, wate rtreatment, ear plugs, notepad and pen, headtorch, etc). When I arrive at a lodge I get a room, lay out my sleeping bag, change into dry clothes, put on my down jacket, grab my evening stuff sack and put on my down slippers if I have them. Then when you go into the dining room you have everything you need. I don't need to go back to the room to get my headtorch or any more warm clothing, or loo roll to go to the toilet. I can hang my clothes out to dry, kick back and relax. Read my book, listen to music, write my journal without having to go to and fro. This has taken a bit of practice though and always on the first few days of a trip I have got the list wrong and have to make a few extra trips to the room.

4) If it is cold and the foam mattresses on the bed are a bit thin I try and get a room on my own and steal the foam mattress from the other bed to double up

5) If it is cold, wear only thermal underwear to bed (you need to warm the bag with your body to be warm), run around or on the spot before you go to bed and get into your bag warm (you get in cold you will be cold), wear a hat and put your down jacket over the top of your sleeping bag (don't wear it)

6) At drink stops and lunch stops, take off your shoes and socks, take out your insoles from your shoes/boots and dry them in the sun, look after your feet and they will look after you.

7) When ascending at altitude take little steps and you will find it easier going

8) From breakfast through to late afternoon (around 3 to 4pm) drink lots and lots (4-5 litres plus if you can). I drink a litre as soon as I get out of bed. That way you will be well hydrated but hopefully avoid having to get up in the middle of the night. Note you only know you are hydrated when your pee is clear. If it isn't keep drinking until it is.

9) If I am having difficulty dropping off to sleep I take half a ibuprofen and it helps me to drop off (an old mountaineers trick). If you are worried at all about masking a headache and AMS then don't do it.

10) Take half an aspirin a couple of times a day, it will help to thin your blood.

11) Monitor your pulse rate. This is how I tell I am acclimatised. For example your resting pulse rate might be 60. Your resting, acclimatised pulse rate at altitude might be 80. Your pulse rate will increase even when resting while you are acclimatising to probably somewhere over 100. Learn how your pulse operates and you will start to work out when you are acclimatised. Here is how it works for me:-

For instance if I trek up Namche hill to Namche, when I arrive I will check my pulse, it is normally 80 while acclimatising at this height. After 8 hours it will go down to 60. This is my resting pulse for around this height. I know at this point I am acclimatised (see above for disclaimer)!

12) I prefer to cover up than plaster myself in sunblock. I wear a long sleeved high necked merino top and brimmed sun hat which means I don't have to put any sunblock on unless I am walking on snow. Then the reflections off the snow mean it is important to put sunblock on your face and when really high even up your nostrils! Sunburnt nostrils are no fun I can tell you!

13) I always wrap some gaffa/duck tape around my trekking pole. You can repair everything with it from tent poles, holes in tents to treating blisters (I have done this on my own blisters as I found this stuff was the only thing that stuck to my feet, regular blister treatements didn't work for me).

14) You may notice the lack of toiletries! Well merino wool is the secret you can wear it for weeks and you don't stink, honestly!


I hope this is of some help to some of you.

So come on you experienced trekkers please add you hints and tips for the newbies out there.

Happy trekking everyone!
check it out
http://basecamptrekking.com

How to plan a camping vacation?

Jesse

Me and my family live in Ohio and we are planning on visiting maine but we are very poor so we are going to camp. We have a tent but we need to know how to plan for travel, staying their and food! Thanks!

Answer
Find your camping spots and reserve where you can. http://woodalls.com/ lists all that there is and you can make reservations through
http://www.reserveamerica.com/ or http://www.recreation.gov/

Planning now for summer is great since reservations go fast for the better, popular destinations also keep in mind that gas will rise to $4.00 a gallon by June, so watch that budget.

Check lists abound on the web for what to bring here is a good one,
http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/family+camping+checklist.html

Food is easy bring simple foods that all like and stop for a pizza on the road nobody likes to hassle with cooking right when you get to your campsite with dinner made you can focus on dessert and making smores. Here are some menu planning suggestions,
http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/planning+menu.html

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what impact did Friedrich Wilhelm Von Steuben have on America?

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pup

Answer
He had a major impact on the existence and efficiency of our army. Von Steuben was a Prussian officer and drill master who arrived at Valley Forge in February, 1778 to train the army. Instead of the existing policy of placing recruits in a unit before they had received training, Von Steuben introduced a system of progressive training. He broke the troops into small groups and trained them in guerilla warfare, which proved to be an invaluable method of fighting, since we had a relatively small number of troops to fight the large powerful British army.

He turned disorganized army into a disciplined, organized, highly trained army that became a powerful striking force of great precision. He organized and disciplined the forces so efficiently that he was thanked by Congress.

Von Steuben, who in 1778 was given the title of Inspector General, motivated the men through affection and idealism which lowered the danger of desertion. His methods also encouraged longer voluntary enlistments. These were imperative aspects of maintaining an army.

He wrote an army training manual, called "Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States", known as the "Blue Book". Although this Manual has been modified, it still remains in the basic guide for the discipline and drill of the Army. It was, like von Steuben, invaluable to the army.

Because combat was at close range, speed of firing and re-loading was of great importance. Von Steuben's manual dealt with this in specific, precise detail.

On June 28, 1778, Von Steuben's training was put to test when the American troops encountered the British Army near Monmouth Courthouse in the town of Freehold, Monmouth County, New Jersey. What seemed to be a certain defeat turned into a patriot victory and a turning point in the war due to the tactics taught by Von Steuben. This battle was followed by victories in Stony Point and Yorktown, where the British finally surrendered.

Another program developed by Steuben was standards of camp sanitation. This was critical in preventing diseases. He also and camp layouts that were still the standard a century and a half later. This organized the layout of tents and roads, better organizing deployment and camp functions.

One of Steuben's biggest contribution to the American Revolution was training in the use of the bayonet, which became crucial. Until then, they used the bayonets as skewers for their food, or as tools. In the Battle of Stony Point, (a critical location on the Hudson River in New York) American soldiers attacked with unloaded rifles and won the battle solely on Steuben's bayonet training.

Steuben's military services in America are recorded in General John McCauley Palmer's biography on Steuben by his statement:

"...In the course of my researches I was soon convinced that the military services of two men, and two men only, can be regarded as indispensable to the achievement of American independence. These two men were Washington and Steuben. When I say that their military services were indispensable, I mean that each of them contributed something essential to final victory, that could not have been contributed by any other man in the American Army..."

For more on Von Steuben, see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friedrich_Wilhelm_von_Steuben
and : http://www.bergencountyhistory.org/Pages/gnsteuben.html

Camping, Dutchess County, where to go ?

Dan S

I go to college in Poughkeepsie and im looking for a good place to go for a weekend camp trip with my girlfriend. Ive scouted some of the local parks (Norrie Point and Wilcox park) but these are not real camping.... these are just crummy campsights all on top of each other so close that you can hear the furthest neighbor fart.

That isnt real camping to me, real camping when i was a kid took an hour walk in the woods, finding your own spot, and setting up tent.

Where can i find a REAL camp areas in the Dutchess County / Hudson Valley ? Hopefully soon, as fall nears camping will be less fun for us. I dont care if its a park, i just want some where we can hike into, cap for two days and not be bothered by anyone.

I was tempted to go to Fishkillridge but i dont think that is legal.

any help ?

Answer
Hi Dan,

Yeah, you pretty much mentioned everything that Dutchess County has to offer when it comes to camping. Here are some other suggestions to consider in the Hudson Valley.

In Columbia County (north of Dutchess County):
Taconic State Park http://nysparks.state.ny.us/parks/83/details.aspx
Lake Taghkanic http://nysparks.state.ny.us/parks/38/details.aspx

In Ulster County (west of Dutchess County):
Catskill Park http://www.catskillpark.com/
Woodland Valley http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/24501.html

Hope I gave you some new options to consider. Have fun!

-Suburban Dana

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Are there any magazines geared toward tent camping?

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Lepke

I guess I'm looking for something which might have gear reviews, campground reviews from a tent camper's perspective, etc. If not, is there an RV camping magazine that has a significant portion of it also covering tent camping? Thanks for the help.

Answer
Backpacker Magazine.
Camping Life.
Woodall's.

if you are travelling abroad say to Ireland, do you have to pay extra to have a tent in hand luggage?

Jack

would you have to pay extra to have a tent and camping gear in your hand luggage and if so why?

Answer
there is no way you can take a tent or camping gear in your carry on. simply will not fit/meet the size restrictions.

it will have to be checked, and it if exceeds the weight allowance per person, you will pay the fees.

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How much would it cost to spend 2 months camping?

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Plus

We're wanting to take June and July off and just go camping through the state of New Mexico and the grand canyon.

We'll have $1,500 a month and $400 a month for food.
Our monthly going out would be $110 for phones, $157 for our truck, $63 for insurance, plus diapers, wipes and dog food, so about $100.

We plan on staying about 5-7 days in each location, and one of those weeks we'll be staying for free at someone's house.

We're considering buying a cab over camper, it'll be slightly easier than tent camping, but I think it'll be more expensive.

We'll be bringing bikes, so when we stop we won't be driving a ton.

Our main ideas are the grand canyon, Carlsbad caverns, white sands, Roswell, etc.

Does this sound possible with our income?

Answer
$1900 per month should do you just fine. People have made that tour on a whole lot less. Assuming your vehicle is in good shape. It's getting hot out there though. Carry lots of water.
I've been to Carlsbad Caverns, it's very wonderful.
Grand Canyon is going to cost you some. I have heard that they don't even allow cars at the South rim any more, gotta park outside and get bused in. Check on that and be prepared.
White Sands and Roswell won't cost much and I assume Roswell has camping.

You should be able to do all that with the resources you have. I wouldn't do the RV thing, it costs a lot to park them and they require lots of maintenance (and fuel). Use tents.

Hope it goes well!! Sounds like a great trip.

Where is my best bet for a weekend in the Outer Banks?

Navyboy82

My wife and I would like to grab a small cabin or tent camp in the Outer Banks. We live in Norfolk, and are planning lots of exciting weekends for the summer. I enjoy fishing and surfing. My wife likes to relax a read with a drink. We have a dog and would like to be able to have a campfire. Where should we go? Most impotantly my wife needs to enjoy it as I am trying to ease her into the joys of camping. Thanks in advance!

Answer
You need to carefully consider the camping idea. If she's a first time camper then OBX is not the place to start. First there's no shade and try putting up a canopy in a 20 mph breeze, not uncommon and not unusual. Second if the breeze is from the sound the skeeters can be overwhelming. So there's a good chance it could be a bad first time camping experience. Instead, why not get a motel in Nags Head. The Colonial Inn is a good one www.colonialinnmotel.com, phone 252 441-7308. I've stayed there myself. They allow dogs in certain rooms and I don't think there's an extra charge. The owner has a golden retriever 'Chief' who stays in the office and greets guests. It's right next door to the Nags Head pier for fishing, dining and beer and wine in the evening. They may have a full bar. On a good day you can surf right out in front since the presence of the pier helps improve the wave action. The place has great rates. As good as they get on the OBX. The only thing you won't be able to do is the campfire deal.

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How can I make a special wash bucket for camping?

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Aka MOMMEE

We will be drive in camping with no running water. I want to make a special wash bucket with some rags for everyone to be able to rinse hands and other dirtys. Should I use a little bleach in the water to keep it fresh? Maybe a little soap? Any other ideas?
Maybe salt water?

Answer
Some people keep a plastic rectangular tub in their sink (or one side of it) to soak dishes in. These come in various sizes and are very cheap. Found at Walmart, Kmart, etc. They make great camp sinks. They can also be taken into the tent for sponge bathing.

But your attempt to keep the water in the vessel "fresh" is futile. I would not put bleach or salt in it because nobody wants that stuff in their eyes.

A better approach is the "2 bucket" method. Bucket #1 holds clean water. One dips some clean water out of bucket #1 into the plastic tub, does what one wants with it, and then pours it out into bucket #2, which is waste water. That way the water source and the work bin stay clean and all the dirty stuff ends up in bucket #2. Buckets cost $3 at Home Depot. Just bring a dipper to remove water from bucket #1.

I assume you will have a water source, such as (my fave) 5 gallon blue plastic water jugs (like gas cans) with a spigot on each, available at Walmart for $10.

Just like condiments at the hot dog stand, one may set out near the wash tub some soap, bleach, or whatever for people to use, before dumping used water into bucket #2.

Not bad for a $12 solution, eh?

what do my husband and I need to go camping?

KimberlyJ

I haven't been camping since I was a kid. What equipment do I need? I don't want to spend a fortune on camping equipment, but I need to be comfortable. I am five months pregnant and feeling very sick. I think the outdoors would help me quite a bit. Any advice would be helpful thanks.

Answer
#1 most important thing.

Be comfortable.

Pick out a tent at Walmart/Kmart/Target that is large enough for one of those Coleman (or off brand) air mattresses to fit inside it. Twin size at least. The air mattress should come with (you may have to buy it seperate) battery operated blower/pump, to blow it up for you. If it rains...the 6" thick air matress will keep you up off the ground and dry...even if you have an inexpensive tent.

Try to find a shadey spot, wherever you set up your tent. Tents can get hot in the morning with the sun shining on them.

I'd say the rest ...keep as simple as you can. Setting up and taking down your camp should not the a "big" chore. If it is...your making it too hard on yourself.

My favorite time saver? I gotta have coffee in the morning. I don't mess with a perculator anymore. I buy those big pre-made coffee/filter bag things. Drop one or two in a camp pot...boil...coffee! No mess to clean up.


Keep the "camp" part of it simple. You will have more time to relax, explore or goof around.

Just my two cents...


Have fun!

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What is a good place to go tent camping with friends?

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becca6one9

A couple of my friends and I (including my boyfriend) want to go camping this Spring Break. However, I do not know where is a good place to go tent camping in, Can someone help. Any advice would help. I tried googling it, but it was just a vast of information.

By the way, we all live in San Diego, California. n_n

Answer
here we go 10 miles in on the river you still see 1 or 2 people but it is rare just let someone know where you will be the weather is not what the weather man says

Where is a good place to go camping in southern california?

Krissi Pes

Im looking for a good place to go tent camping where there are nice hike trails and fishing. I want a more of a wilderness feel to it rather than having a city outside the camp gates. I live in west covina so im looking for anything that is no more than an hour away. Anyone know of any places it would be a lot of help!

Answer
Lake Isabella, but would be little more than an hour. Way worth it in my opinion.

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What is a good road trip to take in Australia?

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I'm a uni student, which means i'm generally pretty poor.. i have my own car, which...well, does the job and i'm sick of sitting around with nothing to do.

My friends and i live in Brisbane, and want to take a road trip somewhere that won't cost a bucket load, and that won't take us too much time to get there (i think that 7 or so days would be pretty ideal for the whole trip). We are used to living poor and making do with what we got, i don't want an extravagant holiday to somewhere luxurious.. the point is to get out of the house and just.. do something fun with my friends. In fact, i will be very surprised if my car even makes it!

We don't mind seeing and doing silly things along the way! A bar would probably suffice.

any advice, suggestions or experiences? please share, it would be so greatly appreciated!

Answer
If you want to keep camping costs down i'd go to the outback. I actually love the outback even if it was expensive, but the fact is that you can camp for free anywhere in the bush, just bring your swag or tent. You wont find bars there but theres at least one pub in every town. I find the outback really relaxed and different. If you drive along the coast, it's harder to keep your costs down as theres no free camping, the cheapest option is caravan parks at about $20 a night.

Can anyone recommend some nice places to see in Australia?

sun+E

I'm going to visit my friend in Sydney for 15-20 days, and we're both college girls looking for some sun and fun.
We've decided to hang around Sydney (Bondi Beach and such), and then go to Melbourne, maybe check out the Ulruru rock.
If you had an itinerary like mine, how would you go about it? Would you drive to Melbourne, or fly there? What would you do in Sydney? Do you think going to Ayer's Rock is worth the time and money?
By the way, my budget is around 2000-3500 AUS dollars, though I don't know if this is being practical or not.

Your input would be greatly appreciated (and probably followed!)! Thanks!
We like shopping, maybe do some crazy things (on the safe side), watch the sunset, sort of Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants kind of stuff, fyi.

Answer
Aww mate that sounds awesome, you'll love it here you really will.
Lets go through the cities.
Sydney - Sydney is really the "cosmopolitan" city of Australia. Great place for fun, lots of good night life, clubs, shopping, beaches and the biggest city in Australia. Sydney is a definately a must; especially for the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Bondi is a really good beach, but is a little talked up, and i suggest driving somewhere down on the east coast near Sydney (perhaps on your way to Melbourne) and find a beautiful quiet beach. If its in Australia - its gonna be an awesome beach. My top pick for a coast spot is Byron Bay...also notorious for its fun. (Very popular college party spot). But in Sydney just try to have a good time.

Melbourne - Personally, my favourite city in Australia, and ive lived in every capital city in the country. Its a little different from Sydney, i see it as a little nicer and clean and of course the home of the nations version of football - AFL. Melbourne has some of the best FASHION in the country, and there are alot of great sales going on all the time. My pick for the best shopping city in Australia. Also, not sure if you've heard of it but it is the filming location for "Neighbours", Australia's favourite soap which is successful in the UK as well, not to mention Rove - Australia's favourite talk show. My tip is to go to Lygon St - it has the best food in the entire city, and is famous for it ;). The main thing to do in Melbourne is shop and eat :).

Now, for the travel question, if you want to drive to Melbourne from Sydney, it will take about 10 hours in the car. If you wanted to make a road trip out of it i suggest staying one or two nights in Canberra (the nations capital, and where i live right now :D) to break up the driving and to see the Capital of Australia. TIP: if you have time, and if you decide to go to Canberra, i suggest driving down Anzac Parade. Its so beautiful, behind you is the National War Memorial while in front of you across the lake is Parliment House. Plus down Anzac Parade it has the memorials to all the different wars. Also, to see the city at night (which is actually quite stunning) drive up Red Hill which also has a very nice restaurant on top of it. Or Black Mountain, where you can view the city from the revolving restaurant in Telstra Tower. Canberra is really a place for tourist attractions and relaxing, its not a very big city but is interesting if you have time to explore it.

Brisbane - Now, just putting it on here that you may have the time or many to visit Brisbane (my home town) or as the locals like to call it - Brisvegas. It is truly an awesome city, and is home to the best beaches, hot surfie guys, and theme parks including Dream World, Movie World, Sea World and WetnWild. Brisbane's beaches are that great it even has a huge mass of skyscrapers on the beach called "Surfers Paradise". Brisbane is especially notorious for its laidback people and friendliness and the HEAT :) it is very warm here in Summer.

Flying would definately be a shorter trip, but driving will show you some of Australia's really traditional country towns and landscapes and the road from Sydney to Melbourne is the best for this.
Now for the Uluru question. Honestly, i have never been to Uluru which is a huge shame because i would love to go, but i have been around the area and have camped out in some of the most remost parts of the Australian desert and i can tell you that its an experience :) Swimming in water holes, waking up with kangaroos outside your tent, and just exploring is awesome and why i love the country. In saying this, Uluru is a fair way from the East Coast (Sydney) and even further away from Melbourne so it will take like you said time and money to get there. Unfortunately, having never gone there i cant really answer that question. But i recommend you take another trip to Australia to visit Darwin in the Northern Territory which is great fun and is home to Kakadu - an excellent national park. But be warned - it is also home to ALOT of crocs :| And then from Darwin do the trip to Uluru.
But of course the Northern Part of Australia will have to wait for another time :)
P.S - Take the time to go to one wildlife park either in Sydney or Melbourne, to see the native animals ;)

Ive been around a fair bit (ive lived in Germany and visited Paris, London, Amsterdam etc lots of countries in Europe) and i have been amazed at the sheer size of some of these places. Yet Australia is the kinda place you can call home sweet home.
Wherever you go in Australia you will be recieved with open arms :) Everyone down here is super friendly and we love to meet and help foreigners. If you want to know what to do in the cities you go, just ask a local on the street, and they'll tell you whats happening around the area. Not to mention all the hot surfie boys we have around our coasts :)
My top tip - See as much as you can, and have as much fun as you possibly can take.
I hope this helps, and if you need anymore tips just give me a yell.

See ya later mate, from down under
xxx


P.s - Heres a map so this makes a little more sense to you. Note the Northern parts i was talking about (Darwin, Kakadu) And the distances between Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne.
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/maps/pacific/australia/

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Taking baby camping?

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Q. My husband and I plan to go on vaccation in two weeks. Part of our trip will be camping in Estes Park, CO for 3 days and 2 nights. My question is . . . what do I need to bring and how do I prepare for the baby camping out? We are already going, so not going is not an option.

Answer
My baby is 8 months but was born 3 months early so he only about 5 months size and developmentally.

We go camping every weeken and hae since the last weekend in April. Trystan loves being outside. Babies seem to sleep better when they have had some fresh air.

If you are tent camoing take along a play pen to get him off the ground. You can buy small portable heaters for under 20 dollars that run on electricity or propain. I would suggest getting an electric sight even if your tent camping so you can bring a small lamp. I have found it hard to take care of a baby in the middle of the night when it is pitch dark and have not been able to find a latern that is bright enough.

Make sure you have plenty of formula diapers and if needed baby food. If you formula feed bring bottled water the water at most camp sights need to be filtered. Bring both short outfit as well as long sleeve outfits. Sometimes it can get chilly at night.

They make "bug spray" that come in wipe form. Looks like a baby wipe. This way there is no possible way to accidently spray bug spray in babys eyes. Or Walmart has bug buttons. These are round buttons that you pin to clothes that have cittranella in them. They don't work as well but they don't wear off or come off if baby sweats.

Depending on what age bring small toys to entertain. But mine is happy watching the leaves shake on trees.

Have a great time.

Where to road-trip from Dallas area?

j-homes55

I live in the Dallas area and I am trying to think of where to road trip with my fiance.

We both love the outdoors and we love hiking, camping, etc. We enjoy natural scenery and breathtaking views.

Where could we go that is within a 10-15 hour drive? The states within our reach are New Mexico, Colorado, Oklahoma, Wyoming, South Dakota, etc.

I have been to Yellowstone before, and Estes Park, CO, and Mount Rushmore, etc. Any other places that would be good?

What about the Garden of the Gods? Or even though it is a little further, the Grand Canyon? We would probably tent camp/cabin camp.

Thanks so much for your help!
.
.
.

Answer
Road trip to Wyoming?
How about starting with some spectacular stuff a bit closer
Big Bend National Park, especially in spring and getting up in the Chisos
The half dozen public caves in Texas and the Hill Country west of Austin containing them - find a book on Texas Caves at the library
Carlsbad Cavern then points west for the New Mexico mountains and central valley lava fields and gypsum deserts. If you're really serious, go south to the highest point in Texas on the TX-NM border.
Palo Duro Canyon in the Panhandle south of Amarillo
At least try out the piney woods of East Texas.
And if you have not walked the barrier islands of the Padre Islands area, that is another place.

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How do you take a baby camping?

good tent for camping with baby image

Emmy

If I wanted to take a baby camping how would I settle him in to sleep? At home don't babies sleep in those sleep sacks without blankets? How would a baby be warm enough tent camping if he couldn't have a sleeping bag? I feel like I have the rest of camping figured out- I just don't know how and where you put a baby for sleeping. What age would be safe to start camping?

Answer
It's really not so bad. My daughter slept in her fleece onesie-the one i used for when we went to the snow (with another onesie underneath) with a nice warm hat on. If your onesie doesn't have something to cover her hands, I would get mittens. I also had her swaddled up in blankets. She slept just fine! (she's four months old) If you don't have anything warm like that for her to wear, I saw some on clearance at a Sports Chalet. Don't forget child-safe bug spray, and have fun!

I also just wanted to add-
some people will be mean to you about taking your baby camping, but they're just ignorant. My daughter loved camping. Your child doesnt need a house to be loved and cared for, she just needs you.

How soon can you camp with a baby?

gimpyshake

I don't mean back country camping, yet. For now I am just talking about "get out of your car and set up a tent" camping. any concerns or ideas I should think about before camping with our baby.

Answer
I camped with my baby when he was an infant. It was easy for me because I nursed all my children, I would think that if you don't nurse your child it would be a problem to keep the milk fresh, unless you just have the powder stuff and add water, but then you can't heat it.

I had an extra small tent that we took for him to stay in when we hung out near the water, so he would not be overexposed to the sun.

Women have babies out in rice fields and go right back to work with them on their back. You can go camping with them at any age.

Make sure you bring all the things you would bring when going out. baby rash meds, baby aspirin, plenty of wipes and diapers, make sure you bring extra bags to dispose of diapers if you are not near a trash can. Definitely get some type of sun screen for babies and a hat is essential. if the baby will allow it, you can even get baby sunglasses.

also, make sure, if you need a bug repellent, it is safe for baby, they tend to put everything in their mouths.

Good luck and have a great time!

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I am new to tent camping and need help. How do you use an electrical hookup in a campground?

the best tents for camping image

romancegir

I am going to camp in a Yogi Bear campground in a site that says "Water and Electrical Hookup". Does that mean I can use an extension cord with a strip on the end of it that has plugs in it?
I can find lots of info on tent camping on the internet, but nothing that explains electrical hookup. I'm a single mom. I hope I can find a veteran camper who can help me with my camping questions.

Answer
Typically, "Water and Electrical Hookups" are referring to convenient places an RV or trailer can plug in to for power and running water. Chances are, you should be able to plug an extension cord with a power strip for running some electrical items.

I say plan your trip as if the electrical won't be available, but bring a few things that will be helpful in case it is.

A few helpful camping tips:
If there's a firepit, bring a couple Duraflame logs. They last a couple hours, don't take any special gymnastics to ignite, and you can always throw regular wood on after the duraflame is burning. Remember to smother your campfire before you go to bed (Shovel dirt on it, etc).

Bring a stiff rake. Rake out the spot where you're putting your tent(s). This way, you don't end up rolling over onto a rock or acorn.

Please, please, PLEASE, clean up when you're gone. Have your kids walk all over your campsite and pick up every little bit of trash possible. (Also, bring trashbags! Not all campsites have convenient trash receptacles).

Check the temperature ranges in advance, and pack accordingly. It's a very long night when it's freezing cold and you didn't bring the winter sleeping bags. Remember that tents catch fire VERY easily, so don't put the tent next to the campfire, and don't bring electrical or gas heaters into the tent.

Bring fresh drinking water. (Those 2.5 gallon jugs with the convenient spigot are good...)

Bring a medical kit w/ all the usual refinements. Kids will always find a way to get boo-boo's.

I can almost guarantee that you will certainly overpack for your first trip. You'll find that over time you'll be able to whittle it down to the stuff you *really* need, as opposed to the stuff you think you'll need.

If you're with someone who is not a morning person, they will be much worse in the morning. Trust me.

Good luck!

What are the rules for tent camping in the French Alps?

larray

Traveling the GR 5 from Les Houches to Briancon. Can I tent camp the entire way. I believe I have seen that you can camp anywhere above tree line.

Answer
Alpine camping is best. Pack out waste including feces and urine.
Avoid avalanche chutes, rockfall, but bivy slung between two knobs
amid vertical cliff is fine if you sleep wearing fall-arrest harness fixed
to something that probably can't be pulled away by accident. This
may work for reader on GR5 bridges at mid-span; just hang below
likely exit location of traffic hurtling past to destruction below.

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Is there any camping other than campgrounds on the Pacific Coast in Washington?

tents for camping with kids image

mhj

We have two old dogs that do not like to play with other dogs or kids, so campgrounds are not a good place for them. We can either car camp or tent camp- just not with close neighbors. We were thinking Olympic Peninsula, but that is negotiable. Any ideas? And thanks for looking!

Answer
You can camp in our National Forests... if you drive down and of the forest roads (the gravel ones) you'll see places along the side where people have camped before.. you'll see fire rings to use.. BUT these places do not have running water or bathroom, so you'll be primitive camping (where you have to bring all your water to drink and cook with).

I would highly suggest buying Don Wright's Guide to Free Campgrounds. It's a book (an east and west addition) that lists campgrounds in forests and other secluded places that are free and $12 and under for one night's stay. I use it as my camping bible.. I don't want to stay where RVs and generators are... I suggest you get a copy.. it will help you plan your trip better.
Good luck & have fun camping!

What are some good camping areas close to San Francisco?

wicket_wm

We are flying into San Francisco in the middle of May to go camping. We would like either beach access, or redwoods, or both would be great. Something within 3 hours of San Fran where we could rent a cabin (we will consider tent camping but flying with all the gear would be difficult). We will have a 3 year old with us so something kid friendly with rangers/security of some kind is needed. Right now we are mostly looking at Big Basin, but we are searching for other options as well. Any suggestions?

Answer
You might want to look into a KOA Cabin. They have several locations throughout the state.
Since you were thinking about Big Basin here is a link to the one in Santa Cruz County.

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How do you secure the rain fly on the Coleman Weathermaster 6 Screened Tent?

best tents for camping in rain image

maksmommy1

I am not new at tent camping but I am lost on how to secure the rain fly on my new tent. There are no hooks or really anything on the rope to secure it to anything. There's the rain fly, rope attached to it then it drapes down. What do I attach it to? There is a small black plastic piece that the rope lopes through twice at the end. I tried attaching that to a stake but it comes right out. PLEASE HELP!

Answer
Coleman has a contact at the bottom of the Weathermaster description page.

E-mail, telephone, or chat..

Phone Us
1-800-835-3278
Monday - Thursday CST
7:00am - 11:30am
12:30pm - 4:45pm
Friday CST
7:00am - 11:30am
12:30pm - 4:00pm

In the old days, a taut-line hitch was used to tie-down lines to a tent.

TAUT LINE HITCHThis is another of the camping knots we use most frequently. It is an adjustable knot, meaning you can adjust the tension of your rope that is attached between two objects, when you use this knot. You use this knot when it is important for the line to be pulled taut if it should sag. Some of the ways we this knot are for the guy lines on our dining fly, when putting a tarp over our tent as a rain fly, and for putting up a clothesline. Since it is a hitch as opposed to a knot, some will say you cannot use this hitch for the guy lines as it must be tied to a pole or rigid structure. We use this for our dining fly and rain flys all the time, tying it directly to the rope itself, and it has served us well for many years.

BOWLINE KNOTAnother basic camping knot, the bowline knot makes a loop with a knot that does not slip or jam when under tension. If you want a loop that does not get tighter and tighter, but will not loosen under a load, this is a good one. Use it to secure a line around an object, such as a tree (such as for one side of a clothesline..then use the taut line hitch for the other side so you can adjust the line and it will not sag). We also use it to secure the rope to the anchor and the thwarts on the canoe when we are canoeing.

How to find a good tent for camping?

cottonlily

I want a tent to take camping. I'd like to go to the beach, mountains, state parks, etc. One thing I worry about is rain. I've heard you can't get a true waterproof tent for a reasonable price, only water resistant. I don't want to spend $300 on a tent that I may not use that much. I just need enough room for a full size air mattress and to change clothes. Any suggestions? Oh, and it has to be one I can set up by myself.

Answer
Given your stated requirements a small dome or modified dome makes the most sense.

BTW, you don't want a waterproof tent. If you had one, moisture inside (from your body) condenses on the inside, and you wind up having an internal rainstorm.

Water repellency is ok. Ideal you want a tent that breathes. Over it, but not touching it, goes a waterproof fly.

There are a lot of factors that go into choosing the best tent for your needs. You'll find some of them discussed here:

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How to find a good tent for camping?

tent for camping price image

cottonlily

I want a tent to take camping. I'd like to go to the beach, mountains, state parks, etc. One thing I worry about is rain. I've heard you can't get a true waterproof tent for a reasonable price, only water resistant. I don't want to spend $300 on a tent that I may not use that much. I just need enough room for a full size air mattress and to change clothes. Any suggestions? Oh, and it has to be one I can set up by myself.

Answer
Given your stated requirements a small dome or modified dome makes the most sense.

BTW, you don't want a waterproof tent. If you had one, moisture inside (from your body) condenses on the inside, and you wind up having an internal rainstorm.

Water repellency is ok. Ideal you want a tent that breathes. Over it, but not touching it, goes a waterproof fly.

There are a lot of factors that go into choosing the best tent for your needs. You'll find some of them discussed here:

Best campground in Socal near to Los Angeles or surrounding cities?

Jennifer N

My friends and i wanna go camping for the end of the school year. Were all teenagers and know nothing about camping!
we want to go "tent camping" with a lake on a mountain. WE dont know where is the best place so our parents would know it' a safe place. thanks very much for your help.
Btw, the less we have to travel the better becuz of high gas prices.

Answer
Green Valley Lake near Lake Arrowhead. Nice little campground at the end of the road and not far from the lake. Also you are right on the edge of town.

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Does anyone have any information about backpacking in Ireland?

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x~rach~x

I want to backpack in Ireland at the end of this year. So if any one has any information it would be greatly apprecicated... Like how much it will cost, best places to visit... important stuff to take, things to avoid. Or if anyone had actually done it and has a route planned out they took, that would be great, just so I can get an some ideas!
Thank You x

Answer
You could stay in the Youth Hostels Dotted around the Country.

The an Oige Youth Hostel Headquarters in Dublin is in Mount Joy Street off Blessington Street ,you could Inquire there for Information on the different Hostels around the Country.

an Oige means the Youth and anyone can go to them they do not have to be Young. There are also Private Youth Hostels around the Country. If in Dublin Check with the Irish Tourist Board Offices in O 'Connell Street for Information.

If you have an Irish Map it usually shows the different Hostels around the Country marked with a Blue or Red little Triangle depending on the Age of the Map. an Oige is the Official Hostelling Service and the Map will show this and also the Private ones. These are the Cheapest Accomodation in the Country.

There are also Camp Sites for you to Pitch your Tent, or Caravan Sites that you could Hire a Caravan or A Chalet. Again Check with the Tourist Office in the City or Town that you are visiting. It is always wise to check for Accomodation Early in the Day do not leave until Late.

There is a Back Packers Hostel on Lower Gardiner Street Dublin and also another one beside the Pro Cathedral in Marlborough Street Dublin and also others around Dublin these are not the an Oige Hostels but Private Hostels.

There is an an Oige Hostel in Glendalough in t he Wicklow Mountains and also in other parts of Wicklow this is around 50 K or 30 Miles from Dublin.

Kerry is Beautiful, Clare , Donegal, Galway, Anywhere on the Shannon River System like Longford, Leitrim,

You will mostly have to travel by Bus Eireann this is the Provincial Bus Service. It has a Picture of an Irish Red Setter on it, and it goes all over the Country. You can get it in Bus Arus in Store Street off Amiens Street Dublin.

There are Bus Eireann Bus Stops around the Country with the Time Tables on them, they usually come every Hour and you Pay the Driver or they Sometime have a Terminus at the Railway Stations and you can Pay at the Bus Ticket Office.

The other way of getting around is by Train but it is Dearer than the Bus unfortunately and there is only so many Railway Lines in the Country. In Dublin City ,the Two Main Railway Stations are Connolly Station in Amiens Street and the other is Houston Station in Kingsbridge Johns Road.

Do it yourself wedding under a tent on no budget-got ideas??

paintgirl

I am planning my second wedding, and while I dont' want the big hullaballoo like my first marriage, I would like an intimate backyard wedding to celebrate finally finding my true love.
We have no budget, but we are very creative and talented artists who can make/do just about anything. My parents have a beautiful property, and I can see saving some money for a tent and tables.
I would like some ideas (details please) on decorations and food for perhaps 50 or so people. I'm not doing the "white thing". I am thinking buying candles and cheap glass containers in bulk, and alot of paper lanterns when I can find them cheap. White string lights, etc. Flowers are going to be a problem, I'm thinking about tissue paper flower garlands, fabric, that type of thing. Any ideas about color themes,flowers, linens, other cheap/bulk items that make nice decorations, and a way to cut the cost of food would be great! I think the wedding will be late summer or fall.

Answer
Every wedding has a budget, low or high, there is still a budget. The question is do you know yours... based on what you have stated so far I am guessing you are going with the "as inexpensive as we can manage" thought... which is a mistake many couples make, let me explain why.
With that philosphy in mind you may pick up "inexpensive" items at 30 stores and find out after the big day that you actually spent $30 more than you needed to or maybe even meant to.... because you werent tracking everything you spent and whether it fit within your "budget".

SO..... step 1 - Make a budget (I PROMISE you, you will thank me for this later.) The way to determine this is to figure out what you have in savings that you can comfortably put toward your wedding, same for your fiance', then you need to find out if anyone else will be contributing (I am going to guess that the two of you are probably on your own financially for this). Now you know what your base is. To that, add what you can each afford to comfortably add from your pay each month and for the amount of months you will do this.

So as an example:

$200 in savings (you)
$400 in savings (fiance')
$0 other contributions
Your base is then $600
$50 per month (you) 12 months - $600
$50 per month (fiance') 12 months - $600
Total budget - $1,800

2nd - Shop around, be thrifty.

*Look for an officiant who will do it for little to no cost (generally you can find one if you look hard enough).
*Get flowers from your local grocer (or your own or a friend's yard if possible) and hand tie them with ribbon or go with silk flowers if you prefer. You really only need these for your wedding party, especially if you have your wedding in the fall with the foliage for decoration! (That is what we are doing as well by the way)
*If you want centerpieces for your tables, think RENTAL! You can usually rent even cheaper than buying if you shop around (if you cant, then look at dollar stores... nobody will know if that plain glass vase with decorative marbles came from Dollar Tree or a designer store) Great centerpieces are usually simple yet dramatic (think candles in glass holders on a mirror tile).
*You can get rings in silver for about $25 for the pair (upgrade to gold later when you can afford it) or go with no rings at all.
*Depending on where you live the license will cost anywhere from $15 (in NE) to $65 (the highest I have personally seen)
*For the reception food, host a BBQ or have a potluck and have everyone bring a dish instead of a gift, or have a "sub" sandwich (cold cuts reception) from a local deli sliced into smaller servings (usually very inexpensive) Buffet is generally cheaper than sit-down because you dont have to pay labor, but I would suggest hiring a few "servers" for your buffet to help limit serving sizes
*Limit alcohol or cut it completely
*Play your own music from a CD or MP3 player and have a family member play Master of Ceremonies (change music play lists or CDs by your predetermined order, announcing you, announcing dinner and dancing, etc)
*Print your own invites (put that artistic talent to its best use!)
*Have a friend or family member take pictures for you
*Are you Honeymooning? Think creative... turn off your phone, lock your door, get some nice candles, and turn your home into a retreat. Or if you are "outdoorsy" go camping and forget to tell everyone where. Think of things you havent done or seen in your area and become a tourist in your own city! Its amazing what you can miss in your own "backyard".

Here are a few sites to help you along :)
http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/product.asp?order_num=-1&SKU=13103569&RN=85
http://www.orientaltrading.com/application?namespace=browse&origin=home.jsp&event=catalog&categoryId=377344&tabId=PartySupplies

If you need further help email me and I will do my best to assist

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