What does your bug out bag consist of?

cheap camping tents for sale image

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.

This might sound wierd how do you deal with being poor at 32. I have a roof over my head until my gram passes?

whisper2ya

I have student loans up to my ears. I have an education but my is a job anyone can get. So, my education is useless. How do you cop with never having anything.

Answer
I actually like the other answers! :)
I agree - it's really one step at a time. I should know - I lived in a tent for a year working at a National Park cleaning hotel rooms and toilets. Now I am a college graduate living with a really nice husband and funny daughter and funny cat in the country and trying to make my own path yet again.
One step at a time. I started doing online surveys years ago for points to cash in for gift cards and funky prizes. You have a computer. Try these survey sites for real rewards:
http://www.harrispollonline.com - this site has been doing polls and surveys for years and points can be redeemed for gift cards like iTunes and stuff.
http://www.zoompanel.com -- this site offers surveys for points which can be redeemed for the funky prizes like off-brand mp3 players and crazy stuff.
http://www.globalopinionpanels.com --- this is a survey site that offer points for more gift cards for clothing stores, restaurants, and hotels.
http://www.mysurvey.com --- this is a survey-taking site that lets you exchange points for real money!
Now that Christmas and birthdays were taken care of without breaking me, I learned how to shop at thrift stores for things I needed or wanted (except socks and underwear, of course) I built up my "50-cent library" by buying books I wanted at anywhere from free to 25cents to 50cents to 2 dollars per book.
I learned to sew quilts from material from the free bin using patterns from old quilting magazines and a borrowed sewing machine. Even though I now have my own sewing machine, I still try to use up the free fabric in creative ways to donate quilts to charity.
I am not too proud to take free things when offered or pick up thrown-away objects by the side of the road. My goodness, at the last day of the rummage sale at the church they offered to give away everything outside on the grass for free and I came away with all kinds of camping equipment. Many times when I volunteer at the rummage sale the church ladies allow you to trade "even up", meaning I donate a bag of clothes and they let me take home a bag of all different clothes.
If you want beautiful flowers, you need to plant seeds and learn when to water and fertilize! A simple book can help you grow flowers where you live.
Learn to cook and learn what to do with a bag of free oranges or leftover chicken. (make orange syrup and coat the chicken for "orange chicken stir-fry")
As for student loans - a token payment is better than no payment at all. I have done some odd jobs to pay the interest rates while I am unemployed. If you become a full-time volunteer at a major charity, your student loans will be reduced.
Go to your local employment agency and sign up for temporary work. A lot of temporary jobs become real jobs when they see your work ethic. Any foot in the door and any payment towards your loans is better than nothing. Acquire what you need to survive for free or really cheap and put your money towards paying your loans. We have lived "on-the-cheap" for the past 10 years while paying off 2 credit-card debts and a car loan and they just ended last month. Now the payments can be rolled over into my student loans and hopefully we will be debt-free in 10 years. I plan on living that long!
Learn how to enjoy life without spending money. This summer we are back at the lake and the community pool. We swim in the river, we pack a sandwich and a coke and we are fine enjoying the outdoors. We watch the dollar movies at the theater and we go to the free music in the park at nights.
Life is every day and life is what YOU make of it. Time to make it!

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How to clean a camping tent that smells like mildew?

best tents for camping in rain image

Stella

I haven't used my camping tent for quite a long time and it now smells like mildew. How to get rid of this bad awful smell?

Answer
First, you need get a tote and fill it with clean water then add pine-sol in it. After that, you can place the tent, rain fly, tent poles, tent bag, stakes and stake bag in to the water, and leave them soak in the pine-sol solution for an hour or so. One hour is enough for the camping tent to absorb the aroma of the pine-sol solution, and then you will get a fresh smelling tent.

After the tent has soaked in the pine-sol solution for one hour, now you should take it out of the access water and reassemble the tent in your yard. Use water hose to pray the tent off and you should pay particular attention to the fabric on the bottom. Be sure it is thoroughly rinsed.

The last step is to dry the camping tent. You should let the tent air dry both inside and outside. Itâs important to wait until the tent and all the contents are fully dry before you pack it back up. Otherwise, the mildew will return. If you have a large family tent or multi-room tent, then you should wait patiently. If the weather is not good and you cannot dry the tent outside, you should place the tent in your garage or even inside your home or basement to let it dry. One thing you need to keep in mind is never dry your camping tent in a dryer because this could reduce the lifetime of the tent.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a tarp instead of a tent for camping?

Ruby

My dad and I go backpacking a lot and while we were hiking a section of the Pacific Crest Trail we met some other hikers who were using a tarp for a shelter, instead of the usual tent. Using a tarp is not only lighter than a tent, but it is larger and easy to set up. We've been wondering if maybe using a tarp would be better.

Answer
Ultralight backpackers such as Ray Jardine have revolutionized backpacking with the popularization of using sil-nylon tarps instead of tents.

Tarps provide ventilation which tents do not, thus reducing condensation, which dampens everything inside your tent, especially your clothing and the insulation of your sleeping system, which, especially on long trips, will leave your gear heavier and colder every day, especially during inclement weather. Tarps are lighter and offer more coverage as you've already mentioned. Tarps require no poles and can be pitched between two trees or using two branches or a combination of the two. And tarps are actually stronger than tents by weight, contrary to ignorant assumptions, because they can be pitched low into high winds, and ideally have multiple guy lines that can be staked or tied out. And there are no poles to bend or break. It's utterly laughable for anyone to state that tent poles are stronger than a couple of stout poles found in the woods: You're doing it wrong.

A couple years ago I sewed my own tarp and net tent, which hangs underneath the tarp as protection from mosquitoes, and replaces the need for a ground cloth, using Ray Jardine's tarp and net tent kit and Tarp Book, which includes all the instructions you need.

Since then my wife, daughter and I have successfully and comfortably camped under our tarp tent inside our net tent several times in the Sierras, strangely often in high winds. I have had a corner stake pull out during the night but on our last trip to Winnemucca Lake in Mokelumne Wilderness the winds were just as strong but the tarp required no adjustment during the night.

My tarp is 17.6 ounces with its stow-bag. 8 anodized aluminum stakes plus stow-bag weighs 4.5 oz. And the net tent its stow-bag weigh 11.9 oz. For a total of 2 lbs, 2 oz. for a shelter for 2 1/2, half the weight of the 2 man REI Quarter Dome with stakes. Like I said, no ground sheet needed because the net tent has a sil-nylon floor which hasn't shown much sign of wear.

We haven't had too much rain yet, but after sewing and seam sealing my tarp I set it up in the backyard and rigged up a sprinkler to test it and I have no doubts I'd stay dry and comfortable in any weather short of a blizzard.

Of course tarps are three-season use only and in winter you'd want a single wall tent but why suffer the other three seasons because you can't afford two tents when your second tent can be an inexpensive tarp.

You can read about Ray Jardine's 2009 through-hike of the Appalachian Trail where he evaluates the performance of his own tarp and net tent here: http://www.rayjardine.com/adventures/2009-AT/index.htm

Before Ray designed his net tent he used the same tarp but to protect against swarms of mosquitoes he wore a set of uncoated nylon wind-shirt and wind-pants to bed along with homemade nylon mittens and of course a head net. The wind-pants and wind-shirt are dual use of course, keeping you warmer in the wind and drier in light rain while repelling mosquitoes.

Everyone in my family has a set of wind-pants, windbreaker and mosquito head net because you can't stay in the net tent forever, and I've gone without it, sleeping with mosquitoes buzzing around my head net in the evening, and would anyway to save weight, but my family likes the comfort of the net tent.

Of course if you don't want to sew your own sil-nylon tarp with "beaks" and other features you can buy plain square tarps of various materials and weights from coated nylon to sil-nylon. I used the $60 Campmor Sil-Nylon Tarp before Ray started making his kits but it's not the best, which is sewing your own.

Here's another article on the subject: http://www.the-ultralight-site.com/backpacking-tarps.html

If you're planning to camp above treeline it's a simple matter to pick up a couple of sticks along the way and keep or discard them as needed. Better than carrying poles ALL the time.

They also make tarp poles for the uninitiated.

Anyone who's sewn their own tent, sleeping quilts and backpacks for themselves and their family and used them successfully while backpacking solo and with a child from age four to six, all over the Sierra in all kinds of weather , please stand up, otherwise you don't have a leg to stand on nor any right to tell me what I've said isn't true and what I've written doesn't work. If you don't know how to pitch your tarp in the wind or don't have the wherewithal to move your camp to somewhere more sheltered if the weather becomes unbearable you don't belong in the wilderness.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

looking for great places to camp in kentucky?

best tent camping kentucky image

Lizzy

looking for a place to tent camp. i've only been camping once and that was at the Pinery Provincial Park in Ontario. i'm looking for something similar to that - spacious wooded sites with not many neighbors and fun things to do close by. i'm really intrested in visiting some caves and just relaxing by the campfire. also what is a good month to go? thanks in advance

Answer
You can camp at Mammoth Cave National Park. They have two different campgrounds, including Houchins Ferry, a very small one with only a few sites. It's right by a river and very peaceful. I'd avoid the main campground--it's huge and more oriented toward RVs.

One of my favorite campgrounds is Koomer Ridge in the Daniel Boone National Forest. It's up on a mountain top, with lots of trees, and has trails that go out from the camp ground. It's also close to Natural Bridge state park, which has lots of nifty rock features (arches, caves, etc.) and great hiking.

Links to more info for each campground is below.

As for when to go, I'd stick with April/May or later. July and August tend to be very hot and sticky, although Koomer Ridge is high enough that heat is less of an issue. Autumn is beautiful. Of course, if you're going to be in caves all day, the outside weather doesn't matter. You'll find fewer people earlier and later in the season, of course.

Have a great trip!

what is the best campground in kentucky?

K-la

my boyfriend and i are going camping in 3 weeks and i want to know what the best campground in kentucky is.
we'll be in a tent. Also, i want to be able to do more than just sit and stare at trees for 4 days, so if you know of any lake campgrounds that would just be FANNNN-tastic :)

Answer
http://www.nps.gov/maca/
Mammoth Cave National Park
From the North: Take Interstate 65 to Exit 53 (Cave City Exit). Turn right onto KY-70. Follow 70/255 as it becomes the Mammoth Cave Parkway in the park. Follow the Mammoth Cave Parkway to the Visitor Center.
From the South: Take Interstate 65 to Exit 48 (Park City Exit). Turn left onto KY-255 and follow 255 as it becomes the Park City Road into the park. Follow Park City Road until it joins the Mammoth Cave Parkway; turn left. Follow the Mammoth Cave Parkway to the Visitor Center.

http://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/camping.htm
The park offers camping in three developed campgrounds and in more than a dozen primitive sites in the backcountry and along the Green and Nolin Rivers.

http://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/ontherivers.htm
Over 30 miles of the Green and Nolin Rivers trace through the park and offer a wealth of recreational opportunities. Angle for muskellunge, bluegill, catfish, bass, perch, crappie, and other game fish. Canoe the rivers looking for wildlife, springs and river bluffs. Camp on islands or in the floodplain, or by the river at the Houchins Ferry Campground. Cross the Green River on two ferries â Green River Ferry and Houchins Ferry â two of the few operating rural ferries in the nation.

http://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/riversidecamping.htm
You can reach Houchins Ferry Campground by boat or by car. Houchins Ferry Campground has 12 sites, equipped with picnic tables, fire grates, chemical toilets, fresh water and adjacent picnic shelter. Reservations are not accepted for Houchins Ferry Campground, and it does not accommodate large trailers or RVs; these options are available for Mammoth Cave Campground.

http://www.nps.gov/maca/planyourvisit/placestogo.htm

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

I have 2dogs,4kids,tubes,tent. Where would be a good place for all of us to camp at w/Guadalupe River access?

best tent camping guadalupe river image

Chris

It would have to be a dog-friendly campground, would prefer it to be near the Horseshoe Bend near Canyon Lake dam. I don't know all the places there but there HAS to be 1 pet-friendly camp where I can put my OWN tubes on/off the river.

Answer
Maybe: 2nd Crossing Camp? They have tent spaces and you can have small pets...no Horses.

http://www.2ndcrossingcamp.com/

does anyone know of a good campground around san antonio texas?

rene_24

gonna take my boyfriend camping for his birthday and i wanna go some where we can swim and sleep over night in a tent please let me know !!! thank you

Answer
I don't know how close you want to stay to San Antonio, but check out the Texas State Parks website. I believe the closest park to San Antonio would be Guadalupe River State Park. Garner State Park is the most popular State Park in Texas, and rightfully so. Blanco State Park is okay. Palmetto State Park near Gonzales has some great hiking trails, but swimming will be limited. Bastrop State Park has a huge pool and nice hiking in the Lost Pines area of the state.

Whichever park you choose, be sure you have reservations...camping has become a very popular pastime!

Enjoy!

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What kind of camping tent is good for 8 people? Hot temperatures and sand at camp site, needs to be light.?

tents for camping 8 person image

sidulrike

We´re planning to travel to our camping ground by airplane, so it can´t be too heavy. We´ll be 5 people so I´m looking for an 8 person tent. Any advise?

Answer
Hi there!

I have a big family and when we do our big leisurely camping trips, we always use our 8-person 2-room camping tent. The best I've found (and the best deal out there in my opinion) is the Columbia Cougar Flats II. It's a 15' x 10' dome tent with two rooms and space for up to eight people - though in my opinion, eight people would be terribly cramped in there. I'd say six max, which sounds perfect for you.

It utilizes the GoBe Dry System to keep all the moisture out in it rains - probably won't be much humidity in the desert, so you're fine there. It has a full seam-taped polyester fly with a waterproof coating as well. The frame is a hybrid steel and fiberglass which I've found to be very durable and long-lasting (this baby's endured the abuse of my family for many many trips now). It is spacious but has lots of storage like pocket pouches, hanging cup holders, lockers and a hanging gear loft.

Make sure you do plenty of research to find the tent that suits you best, but this would definitely be my recommendation. It's worked great for me and my family. If you need any other camping tips or ideas, check out my new camping blog:

http://camping-guru.blogspot.com/

Enjoy your trip and happy camping!

Where can find a cheap large camping tent for 6 person?

Josephine

I with my five best friends having a camping in the mountains, I need a large camping tent for 6 person, and the large camping tent is cheap and moisture proof.

Answer
CampPal® Superior Quality Extra Large 5-8 Person Tent $773.99
1.Extra large and waterproof
2.Two D-shape doors on both side
3.Easy-to-set-up
4.Ideal for 5 to 8 persons to use
CampPal® Superior Quality Extra Large 5-8 Person Tent is a quality product. As a nice outdoor supply, the setup and carry of CampPal® Superior Quality Extra Large 5-8 Person Tent seems to be more simple.With the tent, a family can really enjoy a roomy and comfy moment. So cool, I'm sure everything must to be a coming adventure!

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How can i make my camping trip more enjoyable?

best tent camping utah image

Paranoid_M

Im doing a three day camping trip at Ruth lake in the uintas utah with my church group. Im not really into all the stuff that they will be doing ex rockclimbing, hiking, kawnoeing, etc. how can i make my experiance better? i love the moutains and the outdoors :) just not that into all the extreme stuff.
Thanks
:D

Answer
It all starts with a quality tent. If you can be comfortable enough you may not need the activities provided. Exploring is always fun you don't need to climb a mountain to have the same enjoyment. Also, making lizard traps is fun cause you have to check them frequently allowing you to enjoy the sites the wildlife has to offer.

How do I camp under the stars in New Mexico?

Danilo Cam

Hi there. I'm looking to do some camping while on a one week trip through New Mexico. Seems a lot more fun to grab some time under the stars rather than spend each night in a motel.

My question: What's my best bet to comfortably sleep outside while in the southwest in August? I'd prefer to do it without a tent. Do I need a sleeping bag? Sleeping pad? No fear of the outdoors here, just never roughed it quite this thoroughly.

Thanks for your help!

Answer
It does get chilly overnight in NM, even in summer, especially on clear nights. You definitely need a pad to sleep on both to insulate your body and for comfort. If you're on a budget you can get a 24" x 72" "egg-crate" foam pad pretty cheaply -- I've even bought the ones you can use as a mattress topper from a discount store. If you can afford a little more, get a cloth-covered one from a camping store. On-line, CampMor's catalog has good deals. Take a small tarp or old shower curtain to put under it to keep it clean and dry. For a sleeping bag, either get an inexpensive light nylon bag with polyester fill or get one of the inexpensive polar-pile zippered bags AND a travel sheet liner (you can get these at CampMor or in places like Bed, Bath and Beyond.) The advantage of using the travel-sheet and polar-pile bag together is if you get too warm you can fold pack the pile and sleep under the sheet only.

Though it is great to sleep under the stars there is always the possibility of a shower and, more importantly, critters that will want to crawl in that nice warm bag with you (I don't want to scare you, but I woke up once in southern Utah to find a tiny scorpion had crawled in with me -- I was able to shoo him out and neither of us got hurt). I'd recommend getting a mosquito-netting backpacking type tent with a separate rain fly. I have one and it's nice to sleep out with the open sky but the protection of having the netting keeping the insects, ground squirrels and even tumbleweeds from landing on you. And if it starts to rain you can quickly clip on the rainfly. You can even get what's called a "bivy bag" which is a nylon sleeping bag cover that has like a mini tent of bug netting at the end around your head. CampMor has those as well. You could probably get everything you need for under $100. Here are links to examples of what I'm describing:

http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=7581&memberId=12500226

http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=39293865&memberId=12500226


Have a great trip -- NM is a beautiful state.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Where is a good place to camp in Southern Texas?

cheap camping tents for rent image

Peaches

My friends and I need to find a good place to camp in tents this next weekend. We go to Texas Tech and would like to stay in Texas. We don't mind traveling but we need a cheap place that is preferably warmer and a place were we can drink. Any good suggestions?

Answer
Living in south Texas all my life I can help you. There is a little town in the hill country that you can camp by the river,rent a cabin,or pitch a tent beside the river.Bandara,Texas is what you are looking for.Its like stepping back in time to the old west.

Where is the best and cheapest place to rent a motorhome in Budapest?

Rarock

6 of us are going to the Sziget music festival in August. We want to rent a motorhome/campervan but there doesn't seem to be much choice online and thet seem very expensive. Any suggestions?Thanks!

Answer
You won't be able to take a motor home near Sziget. Most people just bring small tents if they are staying the nights on the Island.
i live in Hungary part-time and honestly I have never seen a motor home anywhere on the streets.Unless you are a very experienced driver, you might go crazy driving a big motor home around the city. Some of the campgrounds have trailers parked for camping but they are permenate structors of the campgrounds.
You can take a ferry or party bus from Budapest to the Island.The road to the Island is very narrow, just a two lane road near an industrual area up from the city.
Many people from all over Europe take their motorcycles since they are easy to park along the route to the Island.
www.budapestinfo.hu

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

WHERE CAN I FIND A 5/6 MAN POP UP TENT FROM THE UK?

tents for camping tesco image

Ella blu S

In desperate need of a quick pitch/easy erect/pop up tent for 5/6 people in the uk.

Can anyone send me a link? I have tried and failed to find any and desperately need one. Price is not an issue.

THANK YOU! :D

Answer
It would be best to visit a local camping / outdoors shop, preferably a large one with the space to pitch some of the tents. The following chains have shops, and also online sales:

Tiso:
http://www.tiso.com

Blacks:
http://www.blacks.co.uk

Millets:
http://www.millets.co.uk

You can also find tents in general retailers, but you won't see them pitched or get advice.
Tesco:
http://direct.tesco.com/

Argos:
http://www.argos.co.uk

what should i bring to england?

xXLivingLi

Ok im going to england for a couple of days and my mom and I are going shopping so i only need one other pair of clothes! what else will i need. I have the basics in my head but, i want things I could forget

Answer
Hello Dear!
1. Bring along your own washcloth (assuming you normally use one) -- most places I've stayed in UK don't supply them. Put it in a zip-lock bag so you can carry it "wet."
2. Why long-sleeve dress shirts? How about one nice long-sleeve pullover sweater or turtleneck that would go on top of anything to provide both warmth and nicer appearance.
3. Chargers for electronics: Remember (at the least) a high-quality "transformer" type electrical adapter, because UK uses 220V and a much different plug than US. I've had poor luck with adapters personally but perhaps another reader has a tested recommendation. Ditto your electric razor! Probably better off with disposables for that.
4. I assume you have enough memory cards for the camera that you won't have any download issues along the way. I took 800+ digital snaps on my last 3-week tour of UK, took along a freestanding digital storage device so I could dump cards as needed.
5. Also assuming you are sure your cell phone will work in UK -- even if it's theoretically capable, I'd contact cell provider ahead to time to make sure there's nothing extra to be done.
6. I also like to contact my credit card company ahead of time, tell them to expect charges from UK during the time period.
I've never traveled on an organized tour so I'll hold my thoughts on underwear washing ) Above all, have a great time! And wear your sunscreen LOL
Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Accept that the UK has unpredictable weather and pack clothes which you wear in layers. That way, you won't get caught out when the temparature suddenly plummets or (occasionally) soars! Waterproofs are vital whenever you visit, of course.

Toiletries & Medical Supplies: You can buy most toiletries easily, at chemists or supermarkets, so there's no need to carry extra supplies.

Photo Equipment: Memory cards are easy to find in electrical/photography shops and larger supermarkets. Buy films from chemists and some newsagents, but they are much cheaper from supermarkets, who also sell discounted packs of 3 or more. Supermarkets are also cheaper for toiletries and basic medicines (e.g. paracetamol, cough medicine etc).

Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: Make sure your tent is fully waterproof......and that your sleeping bag is a warm one!

Miscellaneous: The major supermarkets ... Tesco, Sainsbury's, Safeway, Asda, Morrisons........have their own websites so you can google for your nearest branches and opening times.

Good Luck!

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Where can I camp not to far from Chicago on short noitce?

best camping tent for 10 people image

solaceinto

My and some of my friends are looking to go camping on Friday August 3rd, and come home Sunday the 5th. I'm in the northwest suburbs of chicago and I want it to be under a 3 hours drive. there will be 8-10 people, taking two cars, and we will be camping in tents. I see online that most of the state parks in the area are full. We wish to go to a place that has showers and flush toilets, but not a watered down expirance like a koa. anyone have and ideas on where we could find a campsite on such short notice?

Answer
You said "Not KOA", but check this one out anyhow: http://www.koa.com/where/il/13101/

Otherwise, search here:
http://www.allstays.com/Campgrounds/Illinois-campgrounds.htm

Where is a great wisconsin campground for tent camping and fireworks?

Jim

My wife and I want to go tent camping in Wisconsin with our 3 children (6, 10 and 14) over the 4th of July. We live in Illinois and have camped everything here. Where is a great place to camp in Wisconsin where they have plenty of activities and a good fireworks show?

Answer
Look into the Wisconsin Dells area. Many attractions. Otherwise many of the state parks are beautiful. Hope you find what your looking for and have a wonderful trip.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Where would I look to find a little post office van to fix up for camping?

tents for camping on ebay image

pink

I want one of the little mail delivery vans to fix up. I want to my own customized version of a something like a teardrop camper where it is just a tiny upgrade from tent camping. I have looked on Craigslist and on ebay motors ...searched some other sites too. Where do ya go to buy such things? Is there a government auction to buy these? I am stumped.

Answer
Perhaps a sprinter van?
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=sprinter+vans&id=E4808D2D883EFAD978D292BB9DF31F5FE823C167&FORM=IQFRBA
They are light weight, yet designed as cargo trucks and have a lot of room inside.

Should be good used ones on the market, as they have been in existence for several years.
Just make sure you know how high it is before you go through the drive-through burger place.

They are much more efficient (fuel wise) than old Post Office trucks.
I like your idea, but the Post Office (I want to call them jeeps but they aren't) are pretty wore out and will not be cost-effective for your purpose.

If you really want a used Post office vehicle, ask your postman. They probably know what the Post Office does with them when they are 'done'.

What is it like camping at the bottom of the grand canyon?

april_hwth

I am determined to get to the bottom of the grand canyon. What is it like carrying all that stuff down there? Does the duffel service carry tents? There is no lodging available at Phantom Ranch for hikers until next October. We want to go this Spring. My husband is not crazy about camping. Should we just do some day hikes and not worry about getting to the bottom?

Answer
It is definitely worth trying to get to the bottom of the Grand Canyon as it is a very different (and in my opinion) much more rewarding experience than just staying on the top. There is no feeling on earth like standing beside the muddy waters of the Colorado River with the dark rough walls of the Inner Gorge towering above you. I have been to the bottom over a dozen times and it still makes my heart skip a beat each visit.

Bright Angel campground (the one at the bottom by Phantom Ranch) is about as civilized a backcountry camp site as you are going to find. They have a facet with drinking water and real bathrooms with flush toilets. Each campsite has a picnic table with ammo cans and poles for storing food away from critters. Although it is a large camp area and all the sites are close together, the lush vegitation and the pleasant background noise of nearby Bright Angel creek make it feel very peaceful and not crowded.

As far as how tough it is to backpack down... well, I would say that if you consider yourself fit enough to hike it without a pack than you can probably handle it with one (unless perhaps, you have significant knee or lower back problems). As long as your pack fits correctly, you take your time and stop for rests when you need them than you should not have any problems - especially since you have several months to prepare. I have a couple of friends who are over 40 and a bit over-weight (certainly not athletes) who I have done it with and they did not have problems - they just took it slow at their own pace.

Mr. Danger above has a lot of good tips and suggestions. As he notes, you will want to make sure that you get ready both physically and mentally. Start with going on regular hikes around your home with a small day pack and then try renting or borrowing a pack, load it up with the weight you expect to carry, and try doing some long day hikes with that (doing at least one easy overnight practice trip would be ideal). You are going to want to be building up your leg muscles, increasing your cardio-vascular endurance, and also building up stomach and lower back muscles. Note - it is not training for the olympics - just that if you don't do regular cardio exercise than you should start and make sure that you get a day or two experience carrying a full pack.

As Mr. Danger notes you could try buying stuff on eBay or rent from several places near the canyon. A couple of additional suggestions about packing the canyon for the first time:

1) While it does not have to be the ultra-ligh high-end stuff, make sure that you get true backpacking equipment. You do not want to be carrying an 10lb 'car camping' tent or other much heavier equipment. If your entire pack - including water - is over 30lbs than something is wrong.

2) Fit is everything. Regardless of if it is bought, borrowed or rented find somebody knowledgeable to guide you in loading and fitting your pack. I will take a well-balanced well-fit heavy pack over a poorly packed, ill-fitting light pack any day. Remember that the weight should ride on your hips, not your shoulders.

3) Invest in some trekking poles (look like ski poles). These make a huge difference by taking strain off your back and knees and improving your balance. Having a pair of trekking poles is like taking 10lbs off your pack.

4) Be warned that the South Rim is at 7000 feet and does experience snow and freezing temps in winter. Icy patches can be quite common on the upper stretches of trails well into April. Check with the backcountry office before you go - if they are really icy, you will want to have instep crampons.

5) See about getting your meals at the Phantom Ranch canteen. Even if you are not staying in the dorms/cabins, they always have extra dinners and breakfast seats that backpackers can reserve (you MUST have reservations - made through Xanterra). Although a bit pricy, the food is good and it means you don't have to carry food or cooking supplies. Bag lunches (as well as individual snack items) can be bought at the canteen without reservation.

6) Backcountry camping permits are selected 4 months in advance. Spring is a popular time for backpacking in the canyon, so permits get picked quickly. If for instance, you want to go in April, than you should have your permit request sent in well before January 1 (see link below).

As far as duffel service goes... yes, (for most of the year anyways) you can hire a mule to carry your gear. The gear must fit in a space of 36x20x13 inches, which could prove a challenge for two people's gear. It costs about $60 per duffel per trip (ie: one trip down and one trip up) and you can only drop-off and pick-up your gear at certain times during the day. You are still going to have to carry a day pack with water, snacks and probably some bad weather gear. Considering the hassle and expense of the duffels, I would say just backpack it - it is a great experience and the feeling of accomplishment and independence that you get when you come out of the canyon carrying your own gear is something you will remember for the rest of your life.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How to keep a camping tent clean while camping?

best camping tent for 5 people image

Anita

I will purchase a new camping tent for my camping trip. I wonder is there any way to keep the camping tent clean while camping? Actually, I'm a bit of a neat freak.

Answer
1. Use a ground cloth, or tarp, under your tent. Not only will this keep the bottom of your tent clean, it will keep the floor of your tent dry. Just be sure to tuck the edges of the tarp under the tent so that it does not catch rain.

2. Never wear your shoes inside the tent. When you enter your tent, sit in the doorway and remove your shoes, then place them on a floor mat, rug or towel near the door way. You can even leave them outside by tucking them between the tent and the ground cloth.

3. Bring a Ziploc bag for trash to keep the inside of your tent clean. Don't litter inside your tent--especially with candy and food wrappers which can attract bugs or larger, furrier nuisances. Better yet, throw your trash away in an animal-proof trash can outside of your tent.

4. Pack a whisk broom and dust pan to keep your tent clean. These even come in small, easy to pack camp sizes. Sweep the grit out of your tent every day, and once again before packing it.

5. Never store a wet and dirty tent. If you have to strike camp in the rain or even a heavy morning dew, be sure to pitch your tent again at home to dry. You can pitch it in the sun, a garage or porch. You can even dry it by hanging on a clothes line or over a fence. Clean any stains. If your tent goes into storage wet and dirty, it will come out stinky, sticky and moldy for your next camping trip.

How to fix the camping tent poles?

Nadine

I am planning to go camping with my friends but I found two of my camping tent poles are broken. Any one knows how to fix it?

Answer
1.Go to a sporting goods store and look for tent pole repair sleeves. Buy as many sleeves as you have broken tent poles (hopefully it's only one).

2.Slip the tent pole repair sleeve over the broken tent pole, and wrap duct tape around the top and bottom of the sleeve to further secure it in place.

3.Go to a hardware store if you aren't able to find a tent repair sleeve that will work with your tent pole.

4.Buy some aluminum roof flashing and two nylon clamps. Cut the aluminum flashing to size with tin snips and wrap it around the broken sections of the tent pole.

5.Secure it in place by putting clamps at the top and bottom of the sleeve you have created. Wrap the aluminum flashing with duct tape to cover any sharp edges.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Can an unmarried couple share a tent in Belgium?

tents for camping europe image

Amy

Me and my boyfriend, aged 20 and 21 respectively, are planning a trip across Europe backpacking and camping. We did not expect to encounter any problems with this until I read on the internet that a law in Belgium used to state that unmarried couples under the age of 21 could not share accommodation. Does anyone know if this is still the case (or if it is even true in the first place)? We're leaving in 20 days and I'm getting a bit concerned that we'll be left with nowhere to stay.

Answer
Belgian law allows you to have consensual sex at the age of 16. But you will have to wait until your 18th to get married. In other words, the law really doesn't have any problems with unmarried couples and so they won't forbid you from sharing a tent.

If on the other hand you plan on staying at a monastery or other religious refuge, the house rules may state that you can not sleep in the same space unless you are married. But that's because the catholic church does have a problem with sex before marriage. The rest of Belgium doesn't.

Hey I want to know somethings about backpacking around europe and hoe much it is going to cost?

Lala

i am planning to take a month/ month 1/2 to backpack through europe before I go to college, my 18th birthday. I am currently 16 going on 17. I just want to know some things to take into account and maybe howmuch it will cost so I can start saving up. I plan to go to England for a week and then start from Portugal to where ever I end up. Any info or maybe one of your own expirence that you would like to share I will truely appreciate. Thank you.

Answer
Been packpacking first time in 1976 and visited just about all the European countries. The cost depends very much on where you travel. My son has traveled on 10 dollars a day in eastern Europe sleeping in hostels.

Travelling is not that expensive and easy to plan eurailpass for youth costs currently $634.00 for one moth travel in Austria 3, Belgium 3, Denmark 3 , Finland 3, France 2, Germany, 3 Greece 2, Holland 2, Hungary 1, Italy 2, Luxembourg 3, Norway 4, Portugal 1, Republic of Ireland 3, Romania 0 , Spain 2, Sweden 3 and Switzerland 4.

You can also extend your trip to Czeck 1 and Slovakia 0 you have to buy the train tickets, but prices of them are very reasonable and would certainly recommend Prague (old city and center price level 3 all other 1). Other Cities definately worth seeing are: Porto (take a tour in port cellar) and Barcelona maybe also Paris, Cologne, Amsterdam, Delft (Holland), Annecy (France), Berlin, Copenhagen.

I have number behind each giving idea of price level there this correspons the price level on regular towns not historic city centers etc...

4 - much higher than states
3 - somewhat higher than states
2 - states level
1 - below states
0 - way below

The main thing determining your budget is accommodation: hotel, hostel with private room annd shower, hostel without neither, camping. If you travel in the summer its a good idea to have sleeping bag and a light tent with you gives you freedom. A good way to cut cost is to take night trains you cover a lot a ground while sleeping (sleeping bag handy).

Travelling alone is not a problem in Europe even for a lady. You might get some whistles in Italy but thats about all. Having companion is also nice and cuts a bit on your budjet if you prefer private rooms (double room usually costs about the same as single). Especially in the summer you can also find companion in the trains with thousands of backpackers just like yourself and then maybe spend a week in some companion and then split. The girl from my neighbuor (19 y) did that.

Have fun and realize your dream.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What to bring on a roadtrip/camping trip?

best tent camping ky image

Starry

I am taking a roadtrip with my friends out to Sandusky Ohio in the summer (to go to Cedar Point). We are also going camping in a tent while out there. What are some good things to bring along with us.

Answer
Duct Tape and KY Jelly.

I live in New Orleans and I am looking for a romantic camping getaway. It can be in La, MS Al or TN.?

Kimberle

I am not looking for an rv park. Somewhere very beautiful and picturesque. It can be tent camping or log cabins. Any ideas? I want to build a fire and roast marshmellows under the stars. A quiet and secluded place maybe.

Answer
land between the lakes, in ky/ TN
173,000 acres of deer, trees, lakes, total seclusion if you want,
starts at Dover Tn

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How to loose weight on my thighs in 3 days?

tents for camping target image

rainbowzz

Okay , this might sounds crazy but i really need this. I am not a skinny person and i need to loose some weight in my thighs. I am tall but still have big thighs.

So I am going camping with a bunch of freinds and I have to bring shorts but I am not confident with my legs but I sais sure, I don't what I was thinking. Now I have the trip in 3 days. Please I need to loos some extra weight.

And I need to know what to pack at a basic camping trip because this is my first time going camping. I need to know the basics and etc...
So please help with this I would be grateful and to show you how grateful I am You will get 10 points so please help me.

Answer
You won't like to hear this, but I've read in countless places that you can't target and lose fat in just one area of your body- it pretty much goes off naturally all over.
That being said, I still think you could do it.
Try this:
Compose a workout of mostly cardio with some exercises focussed on your thighs (I.e wall sits and squats)
And eat healthy. Green tea is linked to weight loss. You COULD try a crash diet. Those are good for working fast, they just don't work very long... And they aren't all that good for you, you'll likely gain the weight back later, but I'm trying my best to help out here!
_____
FIRST CAMPING TRIP MUST HAVES:
1. Flashlight. Goes without being said, you'll need it.
2. Warm PJs and a sleeping bag! If you're sleeping in a cabin or tent, you wanna dress warm for bed. Temps drop at night, plus masquitos are less likely to bite you through thick clothes. Which leads to-
3. Bug spray. Or a bug repellant of some kind. Masquitos and fire ants are brutal!
4.Light snacks. Trail mix, protien bars, marshmellows, chips. Whatever you prefer, a ziplock bag of food can be nice to have.
5. Your best ghost story;)
6. Matches. You could be a lifesaver!

Anything else you bring is up to you. Don't forget a toothbrush, clothes (duh), and whatever other just plain going-somewhere-overnight-necessities you may need!

Where can I find camping in northwest Florida, without going to a campground or a state park?

Mathew

My wife and I recently moved down here from Washington, and miss being able to drive an hour in any direction and be out in the woods with nobody around for miles. We're looking for an area where we can just go and set up our tent, let the dogs run, do some target practice with our guns, and be alone. So far all we've experienced is campgrounds where we have to worry about the big RVs "camping" in the spots on either sides of us.

Answer
Florida Wilderness Areas:

Alexander Springs Wilderness
Big Gum Swamp Wilderness
Billies Bay Wilderness
Bradwell Bay Wilderness
Cedar Keys Wilderness
Chassahowitzka Wilderness
Florida Keys Wilderness
Island Bay Wilderness
J.N. "Ding" Darling Wilderness
Juniper Prairie Wilderness
Lake Woodruff Wilderness
Little Lake George Wilderness
Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness
Mud Swamp/New River Wilderness
Passage Key Wilderness
Pelican Island Wilderness
St. Marks Wilderness

Powered by Yahoo! Answers