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Winter Camping Tips Aug 15

Avoid Cotton:

Remember that cotton becomes ten times heavier if put in water, and there are a lot of chances of that happening during the winter season. Therefore, refrain from wearing cotton and invest in some nice woolen clothes for your winter camping exercise.

Head Gear:

Head gear is very important during winter camping. You can wear any kind of headgear that covers your ears and our head.  Also, headgear is necessary while travelling at high speeds during winter because exposing yourself to the cold weather at high speed can simply give you a headache.

No Clothes too tight:

Wearing too tight clothes during winter have negative effects on the body. Wearing too tight clothes cause the blood flow to constrict, thereby making the body parts cold already.

These are just some of the tips that you should keep in mind while going for winter camping. Remember that winter camping can be as fun as summer camping, it is just that you need to carry out the right things to make it happen.

Most people are under the misconception that camping can be carried out only during the summer. Actually speaking, camping during winter can be as exciting and adventurous, but only if one has the right kind of accessories and follows the right tips. Here are some tips to make your winter camping successful.

Three Layers of Clothes:

The weather can be a terrible foe or a very good foe during winter, and it all depends on the type of clothes that you are wearing. Basically, you need to do the exact opposite of what you would do during summer. You need to wear three layers of clothes, the inner layer, the outer layer and then a shell layer that covers you from wind and water.  Have these on and you will never feel too uncomfortable during winter camping.

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Portable Coffee Brewing at Its Finest With a Backpacking Expresso Pot Aug 15

A camping coffee maker can make mornings in the outdoors just like mornings at home. From camping coffee pots to percolators and coffee press products, outdoors companies and coffee enthusiasts have made it easy for coffee lovers while camping. With many types of portable coffee making devices on the market, you’ll find a coffee maker for camping and backpacking that’s right for you.

One of the most popular coffee devices is the Coleman camping coffee maker. One problem with percolated coffee is the chance of being over-boiled. Using your this coffee maker in the woods will enable you to get drip quality coffee to your camp stove. It has a steel base and perfect for use on a camping stove burner. Like home coffee makers, it has a removable swing-out filter basket and decanter for 10 cups of coffee.

Also, this portable camping coffee maker by Coleman can be used to make hot cocoa, cider and instant soups. It will make coffee in a few minutes with all brands of basket filters. At 5 lbs., this is a great option for camping and coffee lovers. The portable unit is also easy to clean, stable, and durable.

Because the unit uses a stove burner, be sure to keep an eye on the pot after it’s done brewing and turn it off. Some users have recommended getting the carrying case for the coffee maker to transport it over long trips to avoid damage. Other reviews state that the brewing time was longer than stated while others commented on the weight of the unit. Another piece of advise is that the decanter does not stay warm like on home plug in coffee pots, so pouring the contents into a thermos for drinking later is a good idea.

Another great camping coffee making device is the Bialetti Moka Express 6-Cup. This is a small coffee pot, makes great coffee as well. Users have commented that making sure the handle is not over the camp stove is recommended. Like the Coleman model, the Moka Express is easy to use, brews fast and is affordable. There is also a 1 cup version as well. Backpackers like the Expresso maker by Bialetti because it’s light and made of aluminum, so it’s very durable.

Other notable brands of camping coffee makers include the Bodum Columbia, Black and Decker Brew N Go, and the GSI Technologies JavaPress. These three have loyal users that have used the same coffee machine while camping for years. The Bodum makes 8-cups and some compare the taste to press style coffee. The Black and Decker model doesn’t have a glass pot, so nothing can break while hiking and camping. The JavaPress brews coffee faster than percolator coffee makers without sacrificing the taste.

If you’re in the market for a good camping coffee maker, make sure that it’s lightweight and brews coffee fast. Also, ensure that the model has a sturdy housing, easy to use and easy to clean. Being able to use standard coffee filters is a plus as well. Lastly, make sure to test the models for yourself and make sure it makes excellent coffee that’s up to your standards.

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Getting Prepared For a Camping and Hiking Trip Aug 02

Getting prepared for any camping or hiking trip means having the right gear. You should always start every trip by going down a check list.

It doesn’t matter if your going hiking for the day or camping for the weekend, the gear is pretty much the same.

A good comfortable backpack should be one of the first things to consider. I stress comfortable, make sure it fits properly and doesn’t rub any ware.

Even though you may think you know the area, a compass should always be in your pack.

A good multi-tool is handy to have along. It is more than just a knife. They all have pliers and some have screwdrivers with extra bits. There are different models with a variety of tools. The multi-tool can be worn on your belt and most weigh under a pound.

Always expect the unexpected. A flashlight should be included, even for a day trip. If something goes wrong, you could be out after dark. An emergency blanket, first aid kit and a magnesium fire starter are items that don’t take up much room, but you will be glad to have them if you need them.

Don’t forget the binoculars. They don’t have to be expensive or heavy. There are a lot of lightweight binoculars on the market that fit everyone’s budget. A small pair of 7×35 or 8×40 will do just fine.

A camera should be on your list. This is an adventure you’re on, try to capture some of the memories along the way. Again, you don’t have to go the expensive route. A small disposable camera fits nicely in the pack and should do the job.

In this article I have tried to give you some idea of items that should be on your list. I’m sure you can come up with a lot more. The main thing is, get a list and use it.

By all means, have fun on your outing. Camping and hiking are great ways for family and friends to get together. Just remember to get prepared and have the right gear.

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