Archive for January, 2010

Make Life in the Outdoors a Safe and Enjoyable Adventure

Monday, January 18th, 2010

Few things in life are as exciting as going with your family to camp in the outdoors. The natural beauty of the environment is impossible to recreate at home. It’s exciting to see wild animals like deer, or even a snake. As beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so must someone who enjoys being outdoors appreciate nature. If you are someone who would rather spend a day at the beauty parlor, roughing it outdoors on a camping trip may not be the ideal vacation for you.

Research Well

The optimal way to have fun during your vacation out in the wilderness is to follow a few simple tent camping tips. The first one is to learn as much as you can about suitable camping spots before you go. You can choose to camp at a place that is not too distant from home. You should also consider the time of year and temperatures you’ll be dealing with on your trip. Also important is to do some research to find out if the area you want to camp has wild life that could be dangerous.

The second tent camping tip is one that most people don’t know about. Plan your first few trips for short stays, beginning with simple overnight adventures. Stay close to home. If you must hike from your car to the camping spot, it is best for the first few times to keep the distance at a maximum of two miles.

The third important tent camping tip to consider is to remain flexible during the trip.  Be aware that you might need to adjust your plans. Situations and circumstances can change suddenly, especially in regards to the weather. Pack light, and bring only what you need. If the weather is warm, it’s recommended to take a swimsuit, warm clothes for the evenings, and cooler outfits for the days. Make sure you have comfortable walking shoes that fit your feet well.

The final tent camping tip for today is about your comfort and safety.  Take a sleeping bag and a portable mat. Carry plenty of drinking water, enough food for your trip, insect repellent, a flashlight, and items for personal hygiene. In addition, don’t forget to bring a toothbrush!

Tent camping tips for the winter months are different from those for warmer weather camping vacations.

Few things in life are as fun as a night spent under the stars in a tent. It’s an experience everyone should try at least once. Following simple tent camping tips should help to make the experience as enjoyable as possible.

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Butane Camp Stove

Friday, January 1st, 2010

Buying a good camp stove could end up saving your life someday. With that in mind, take extra consideration when you choose a butane camp stove. A butane camp stove is not the type of camping equipment you would pick up in a thrift store. Even though the label will say that it meets quality assurance measures, many brands avoid detailed inspection.  This results in a butane camp stove that could be dangerous. The following tips will help you to make the right decision when choosing a butane camp stove that meets your needs.
Safety and Durability

Manufacturers design butane camp stoves to burn hot, clean, and soot free.  Check to see that the stove’s manufacturer built it to specifications. You can even ask a store clerk to operate the stove for you to try it out first. A butane camp stove that is working properly will have a steady blue flame and no odor. If the stove gives off an odor of butane gas, do not buy that stove. If the flame is more reddish in color, it indicates a flame that will create too much soot. A butane camp stove is supposed to be a clean burning stove, not like the old-fashioned kerosene burning cast iron stoves.

The stove’s durability is another major factor to consider when you are inspecting the equipment. When you inspect it, look for signs of rust, and take your fingers and get an idea how thick the steel shell is. You want a stove that will last for many camping trips. If possible, stick to name brand butane camp stoves. Brand name equipment will always be a little bit more expensive, but it is worth the cost. The best part is that the more expensive, well-made stoves come with a manufacturer’s guarantee.

Portability

If you will be hiking long distances on your trip, buy the most lightweight butane camp stove you can find. Why? According to experts, a person should not have more than 10% of his or her body weight in additional load when hiking.  If you try to carry a load that is more than 10% of your body weight, you increase your chances of strain, especially in the back.

Sidebar: Wishing our readers a very happy and prosperous 2010.

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