Camping-Equipment , Gear, Tents

Essentials for your North Coast Vacation

Camping-equipment, gear, tents, the following list of essentials that you likely want to take on your next California North coast vacation or extended outdoor adventure.

I speak from experience, and five children camping as a single mom for years. Make a list, check it twice-or more. Keeps your sanity. I could have used a good Camping Equipment and Gear list BEFORE we left home.

Tent or three, sometimes you need to improvise to keep the peace between rival fractions. Besides, a few small tents are sometimes easier to pack than one gigantic one- and lighter to carry.

Spare tent stakes, we just got the largest metal nails/spikes about 8-12 inches long by 1/2 inch diameter at the hardware store. That way you can really pound on them or tug to get them out of a root underground without the plastic pegs breaking.

Hammer to pound stakes in and take out.

Pliers maybe not something you thought of as part of camping equipment and gear but sometimes they sure come in handy.

Tarp(s) one or more. We put one under each tent for protection from rocks and sticks. We also use them in case of an unexpected rain storm to cover the tents, cooking area and/or food storage. Also tied to trees or bushes for windbreaks and privacy, another essential in camping equipment and gear.

Camp shovel ; for fires and removing stubborn rocks under your bed. We even take a short handle rake for leveling underneath our beds. Also good for filling in holes under the tent in case it rains, you want the ground to slope away from you, unless you've got web feet..

Sleeping Bags and extra blanket, if you’re like me

Pillow with extra pillow case

Ground pad or air mattress . Sometimes we just use those folding cheap lounges. I noticed as I get older that camping equipment and gear become a lot less primitive and more plush.

Folding table for either your stove or sink/food prep area, there may not always be a picnic table available.

Stove and fuel The part of camping equipment you bring, makes it allot easier to cook.

Lantern and fuel , we use a rechargeable one that plugs into a wall outlet or the car cigarette lighter.

Flashlight and spare bulb and batteries, you can also use a rechargeable one. One for each person for those midnight or later potti trips.

Cook set : Dutch oven or Reflector oven. If taking a reflector oven- cake pans, pie plates, muffin tins.

Griddle or frying pans, non-stick spray really helps.

Toaster; campfire/stove type

Coffee Pot for camp stove or campfire

Pot holder (s), take an extra.

Can opener , regular household ones are easier, we have one just for camping.

We decided to get some of those really tough plastic boxes with red tops to use for keeping our camping equipment and gear organized, easy to pack and hard for critters to get into.

Cooking utensils - spatula, large spoon, fork, don’t forget something for marshmallows. OR the marshmallows!

Potato peeler or counter top shredder makes hash-browns or carrot salad much easier with less refrigeration needed.

Mixing bowls , with covers is great to keep things dry in the ice chest.

Ice chest - we take two; one for keeping things cold with lots of ice, one to keep fruits and veggies in and critters OUT.

Dishpan or two

Dish cloth and towels , My kids like the little gadget with the sponge on one end that twists onto a small bottle holding the dish soap.

Dish Soap putting a small bottle into a zip lock bag saves clean up of everything else.

Plates, cups, knives , forks, spoons . You may choose plastic you wash, or throw away OR paper products

Handi Wipes or something similar make for quick cleanups without water another essential in camping equipment and gear, especially with small children, trust me.

Repair kit for those surprises

Rope - something you can tie in knots and untie easily, and something to cut it with.

Clothes line clips for hanging things to dry OR string up a tarp between camping spaces for added privacy or reducing dust or blowing sand.

First Aid Kit Take some calamine lotion and Bendryl for poison ivy and bee stings. A definite must in camping equipment and essential gear .

Matches in something to keep them dry, we use empty 35mm canisters or baby wipes containers.

Pocket knife locking blade is safest

Saw , folding preferred.

Moisture proof bags or plastic food savers like Tupperware, Gladware etc.

Aluminum foil you'd be surprised

Food supplies ; the more that don’t need refrigeration the better.

INDIVIDUAL Equipment/Gear:

Water bottle One per person at he least.

Toiletries ; if you put these into zip lock bags they won't leak onto everything else.

Soap , zip locks work well here too.

Towels 2-3 each person depending on length of your vacation since coin laundries are available somewhere.

Insect Repellent or you'll wish you had some.

Hat, & Sunglasses for everyone

Rain gear -jacket and pants or poncho

Socks , take extra, kids loose them and they get wet.

Shirts - long and short sleeve

Swimsuits -two, putting on a cold wet suit isn’t very pleasant.

Beach Towels -same thing another camping gear essential.

Flip flops or swim socks, you don’t want cuts on the feet from rocks or shells.

Sturdy shoes or boots for hiking, lighter shoes for camp.

Underclothing take extra of these as well, accidents happen.

Long pants-Shorts , the weather changes quickly within a few miles of the coast or on the other side of a hillside

Sun screen lotion, even if it is foggy and overcast-you can still get the UV rays and burn (ask my kids)

Apple Cider Vinegar -Don't laugh, it works great to cool down a sunburn and prevent blisters and scarring-I know first hand and I even had a grown teenager call me from a trip asking me what kind to get.

Aloe Vera 100% pure gel

Camera, camcorders, binoculars

MP3 , I-Pod or portable CD player or radio with extra batteries or rechargeable and headphones.

Medications etc.

PET SUPPLIES - see our web page on taking “Man’s Best Friend” along

I hope this list of camping equipment and gear has been of assistance in preparing you for your California North Coast camping vacation.

Things You Should Know About Tents

Choosing Your Tent

Here are a few hints when choosing the tent just right for you or your family. Tents that are advertised as one person are rarely big enough for one person.

Two person tents are usually comfortable for just one person, a three person tent is comfortable for two people and so on. If you do not pick something large enough, you will find yourself cramped , claustrophobic and uncomfortable.

Pick something that will give you a little room to move and some space for some of your gear as well.

Each person needs about 3 by 7 feet to stretch out. You will need extra room to dress etc. Remember, if the weather is not good, you will be stuck in whatever you have picked..

You don't want to be sitting cramped and hunched over feeling miserable. In deciding on what you need, decide whether you will be summer or winter camping, and whether you will be backpacking

[Personally, I use a larger 8 person tent for my four teenage daughters to share, a smaller 3 person dome tent for my son and we use a four person tent for ourselves. Keeps the peace, and our sanity.]

Tents are not waterproof. They are made of breathable rip stop nylon. It allows your sweat and breath to evaporate. This means you need a rain fly. They are waterproof.

It fits over the roof of the tent and is meant to carry away rainwater from the tent sides. Make sure the fly is large enough to substantially cover the tent walls.

Applying a sealant to the tent seams is a good idea.

Apply sealer as needed throughout the tents life

Most tents have a fine mesh screen over the door and window designed to keep out insects. All netting is not alike. Standard netting is made of nylon.

Dacron is a finer mesh to discourage even the smallest bugs. They are usually zippered at the entrance with a flap that zippers over the door and window for privacy.

Because of the nature of the fabric used in making tents, being porous, very few tents are designed to keep you warm.

They are designed to protect you from the weather and from insects. They will protect you from the wind and rain, snow and sun, and blowing sand.

To care for your tent, nylon is virtually maintenance free. The only thing that needs to be done is sealant occasionally. Of coarse never store your tent when it is wet, or even slightly damp.

Always set it up when you are finished your trip and dry it out completely. Also sponge off any dirt or mud inside using a very mild liquid detergent or a baking soda and water solution.

Be sure to make any repairs if you have had the misfortune to burn or damage your tent in some way. You can buy repair kits that come in various colors and are easy to use. Store your tent in a cool, dry place in its storage bag.

Dome Tents

The basic style of the dome tent is hexagonal. The fabric usually used is nylon. The weight is about two and one-half to seven and one-half pounds.

The tent is usually free-standing or self supporting. This means no stakes or lines are needed under normal circumstances.

However you should never leave it unoccupied without staking it down because the wind can send this lightweight tent tumbling off. The dome tent is great for backpackers and canoeists. Its the choice of winter campers and mountaineers in larger sizes.

The reason is because of its aerodynamic shape. It resists gusts of wind well and is easy to set up and dismantle. The only problem with this type of tent is that it is not well ventilated. Moisture tends to gather at the top of the dome.

Tunnel Tent

This type of tent is primarily a backpacker's shelter. It can weigh as little as one and one-half pounds. The type of material used is generally nylon. It is not very spacious.

The advantage of this tent is how compact it becomes. It can be rolled into a tight bundle no larger than a football. It is a free standing tent, not needing any lines or stakes unless a fly is added.

It is lightweight, which makes it ideal for the backpacker or canoeist. Because of its design the wind flows off of it easily and makes it great for winter camping.

It has a screened opening at one end and can be closed against severe weather. It is easily erected and dismantled. It also ventilates well.

The A-Frame Tent

This tent is used primarily by the backpacker. The frame of this tent can be either fitted into sleeves or standing independently of the shelter.

Gone are the days of the upright pole that used to hold it up in the middle of the opening. They are generally made out of nylon. Weights vary from about 3 pounds to about 6.

These tents are ideal for canoe trips, climbers , fishermen and hunters. They are relatively lightweight and spacious.

A vestibule can be added to the front opening adding very little weight and adding an extra 10 to 20 square feet. This makes it ideal for storing your gear and giving you extra sleeping area.

Author: Robin Shortt

Camping Equipment and Gear

Storing Camping Equipment and Gear

You have bought the good quality camping-equipment and gear for those great adventures with the family; now you need to look after your investment so you may use your gear over and over and have it ready and in good condition for the next outing.

Mostly commonsense, but things are not always that obvious and there is always just the right [ or the wrong place ] for your gear depending upon how much gear you have and where you live. Obviously tucked away underneath the house may not be the best way to care for those material items such as sleeping bags and tents, etc.

Tents; Tents should always be stored in a dry place away from insects and mice that may eat or live in your investment without your permission. Before packing your tent away , make sure it is completely dry inside and out; this will prevent mold and mildew and that rotting smell that will spoil a good nights sleep. If you get caught in the rain and have to pack up your tent wet, just wipe, dry and air it out when you get home otherwise the fittings and stitching will get stressed and possibly rot.

-Make sure the tent pegs are always packed in their own bag with no sharp ends sticking out to tear any fabric and pack them inside the tent; otherwise they will get lost somewhere just when you need them.

-Check that all the fittings and fabric is in good condition as well.

-Don't put your tent under a pile of heavy items in case some of the poles get broken.

The tent that you have is to be your home away from homeso it is important that it be maintained correctly and more so if the weather becomes bad.

-Sleeping bags These are usually fairly robust but don't like dampness at all, they could use a good airing at times although just stored in a dry place away from insects and mice is all they need.

-Stoves and Lighting Ensure these are all clean and in good working order and carry a spare bulb/mantle for those bits that may get damaged or broken and of course check that the tanks are in stable condition [not rusted or damaged] and even make sure the tanks are full if the next use is not too distant.

-Protective cases will stop damage that may arise from being incorrectly packed or just an accident of some sort, and these are fairly important in the case of gas lighting with their brittle glass components.

-First Aid Kits; Stock up the various items and possibly carry extra of those items you know you may need/use more than usual.

-Backpacks; These are robust and only require a nice dry spot

-Cooking Gear; Gather all your cooking gear together and replace all those things that just disappear or become un-useable for some reason and give them a rough check that they are all clean and easily found.

Your cooking gear is great if it is self reliant and you don't have to raid the kitchen and find the things you need every time you go. camping; once again sturdy containers for storage are important.

Keeping all your camping-equipment and gear organized and ready can save you lots of time when it comes to packing the car for your next trip away as you will have lots to remember and should be start of a great memorable camping adventure.

When packing the family car to get away, it is best to pack the heaviest things at the bottom and the things you may need readily available [like jackets etc, in case the weather gets bad] to be put upon the top.

A little advanced preparation will save lots of headaches and expense later.

Camping Equipment and Gear including Tents are essentials.

Author: Pat Hogle

O.K., I have to admit it. Last year I caved in and started sleeping on an air mattress while camping. I guess that is what old age does to a body. I always felt like I would be cheating if I slept on one but now I will never go back. No more rocks or roots sticking in my back. No more getting wet when it pours.

Don't let anyone tell you that an air mattress is for wimps. An air mattress simply makes your camping experience more pleasurable and a definite part of camping-equipment and gear if you ask me.

There are several types of air mattress construction out there.

What type of mattress is for you depends on your likes and dislikes. In this article, I will discuss two different types of air mattresses

- Tube Constructed and Coil Constructed.

Tube Style Mattresses

The tube style air mattress is constructed of tubes running the entire length of the bed. Some people say these are not mattresses at all but more of a pad. This type of mattress reminds me of the loungers people use in pools. They are thinner than a coil style mattress but thicker than a camp pad. The average height of the tube style is four to five inches. Depending on the size you want will depend on the number of tubes. For example, a 5 tube air mattress will be approximately 74" x 20" and a 9 tube air mattresses will be approximately 75" x 55".

A factor that may be important to some people is stability.

These mattresses are not very stable unless you have it filled with as much air as possible. The larger tubes allow more air to be displaced. I remember our first experience with a tube style mattress. We did not want the mattress firm so we did not fill it completely. My husband's weight shifted the air over to my side of the bed. He ended up with very little air under him and I kept sliding over to his side. Therefore, in order to make the mattress stable enough for the two of us, we needed to completely fill it. This did not allow us much flexibility when determining the firmness of the bed.

If you are looking for an inexpensive mattress for camping equipment and gear where weight and stability are not a factor, this style would be great for you.

Coil Style Air Mattress

The coil style air mattress is constructed of individual coils. When I talk about coils in these air mattresses, I do not mean the traditional metal spring coil. The coils are simply made of air. Again, the number of coils usually depends on the size of the mattress. These mattresses are thicker than the tube style. I have seen coil mattresses range from 12 inches up to 25 inches.

The coil style mattress is the one you will pick if you are looking for great stability and flexibility. With the coil construction, you have better control of the firmness of the bed. If the bed is not filled completely, there is less chance of air displacement. What this means is that if you are sharing your bed with another person, the bed will not be uneven.

I am beginning to see many new styles of these mattresses coming out. There are air mattresses with memory foam, pillow top, double high and even air mattresses on top of cots. The days of waking up feeling like you got hit by a train are gone. Don't think that just because you are camping you can not enjoy a luxury sleeping experience. Go ahead and get yourself a nice air mattress. I guarantee camping will never be the same so don't forget these camping equipment and gear basic.

Check out gift ideas for campers

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