Swank Camping Advice

[Snowflake]

Okay, it's not too early to plan.

I'm a camping novice, realistically, what do I need to be reasoably comfy and prepared for a swanking?

Tent
Sleeping Bag
Cooler
Food & drink

what else?

[katiesue]

some kind of matress or pad to sleep on
cooking utensils (pot, pan etc)

[Cadaverous Pallor]

I highly recommend a decently thick air mattress and electric pump of some sort. Ours is by Coleman and is wonderful. Also acts as an extra bed for guests.

Make sure your sleeping bag is suited to you - if you get hot easily, get a warmer weather one, if you get cold easily, get a colder one. I had to pull an extra blanket into mine this time, so I'm going shopping.

Some sort of lantern that you can set on a table or floor of your tent. I'm beginning to think that gas lamps are more trouble than they're worth, since there are many smaller electric options, and you can always go for rechargable batteries. Regardless, a light you don't have to hold is a nice thing to have.

[Ghoulish Delight]

The wiki has an excellent packing list (http://lotcamping.pbwiki.com/Packing+List) that really helped us a lot.

If you plan on doing any sort of hiking/walking, I definitely recommend a camel back. We did the water bottle thing and even with convenient sport straps, they are just a nuisance. Infinitely more manageable to just distribute that weight and not hang it off one side of your body. Also, since a backpack is a good thing to have while hiking anyway, it efficiently combines items and keeps the number of straps you're wrangling down.

[katiesue]

Some sort of chair to sit on for reading and around the campfire.

[Kevy Baby]

In addition to the additions below, I would suggest not investing heavily in a lot of different things. If you come on a Camp Swank trip (like we just did), you can probably borrow a lot - both from non-LoT friends and fellow LoT campers (we lent out both a tent and two sleeping bags and I know one could easily get away with not bringing any cooking stuff). That way, you can get a feel for what works for you.

Personally, I suggest bringing your own queen sized bed with full linens (sheets, feather mattress, down comforter, etc.) but that is just me GusGus.

Some sort of lantern that you can set on a table or floor of your tent. I'm beginning to think that gas lamps are more trouble than they're worth, since there are many smaller electric options, and you can always go for rechargable batteries.While having the electric ones in the tent is much safer, I am a fan of the traditional fuel powered lamp as they can be MUCH brighter. Once you get the hang of them (dealing with the mantles, pump priming, etc.), they are fairly easy to work with.

The wiki has an excellent packing list (http://lotcamping.pbwiki.com/Packing+List) that really helped us a lot.Excellent point!

[innerSpaceman]

I am not a fan of traditional lanterns precicely because they can be much brighter.

Drowning out the firelight is not something I enjoy. Granted, we need light around the table(s) to attend to business at night (mostly bear-proofing in a drunken and sleepy state), but brightness rivaling the sun is not necessary.

[Kevy Baby]

I am not a fan of traditional lanterns precicely because they can be much brighter.

Drowning out the firelight is not something I enjoy. Granted, we need light around the table(s) to attend to business at night (mostly bear-proofing in a drunken and sleepy state), but brightness rivaling the sun is not necessary.Ah, but they can be dimmed quite a bit - which is how I had it most of the time (at the campfires).

[innerSpaceman]

Yes, you were very good about that .... when everyone screamed in unison "AH GOD, MY EYES!"


So, er, thanks. TeeHee.

[Kevy Baby]

.... when everyone screamed in unison "AH GOD, MY EYES!"Wow... two years in a row I got the same reaction :D

[innerSpaceman]

And yes, folks, Kevy was indeed the model for the perfect replica featured at this year's Swank Camp.

[Not Afraid]

I bought a Petzel (http://www.rei.com/product/751760) this year based on the recommendation of MP and H. I found it to be incredibly useful - much more than a flashlight. However, don't wear it around the campfire if you want your friends to continue to like you.

The Wiki list was based on a found list and edited by me. I hope it is relatively complete.

[wolfy999]

Don't forget bacon!

[Cadaverous Pallor]

I bought a Petzel (http://www.rei.com/product/751760) this year based on the recommendation of MP and H. I found it to be incredibly useful - much more than a flashlight. However, don't wear it around the campfire if you want your friends to continue to like you.I'm quoting this for emphasis. Every time NA looked around it made us yell in pain. There's nothing more annoying than someone shining a light in your eyes over and over and over. Keep the headlamp for walking around, reading alone, or using in your tent.

The Wiki list was based on a found list and edited by me. I hope it is relatively complete.Ah, it was you! Awesome list, really helped us out. :snap:

[innerSpaceman]

Then, of course, there was Gemini Cricket's ordinary Eveready flashlight ... which could project a spot on the Moon.


He used it to do live planetarium shows on the real starry sky.

[Alex]

Add a chair to sit in and consider a tent optional (seriously, sleeping out in the open under the sky is so very relaxing) and your initial list seems fine to me. Oh, add a gas-fired stove, a couple small coleman propane tanks, and a pot, a pan, and one plate/bowl/cup/cutlery per person.

The only drawback is that among others who bring Wal-Mart with them at least one person will say you're just mooching. Some people do indeed, but I was very careful to never mooch.

Oh, and one last thing, bring a copy of whatever Lisa is reading for when she misplaces hers.

[Not Afraid]

Oh, and one last thing, bring a copy of whatever Lisa is reading for when she misplaces hers.


Yes, this is a MUST. I get a lot of reading done at camp and it really cramps my style when I can't find my book. Actually, next time, instead of books, I'll just bring Alex and his Kindle. :D

[wendybeth]

So, you were mooching books from Alex?


:D

[Not Afraid]

Yes! I don't have a no-mooching policy.

[Alex]

Well, I only have a no mooching policy when I'm not contributing anything in return. You offered services in return for use of my Kindle so it was all good (by not having my good books through I actually got my work-related document reviews done).

And I was forced into mooching a "gourmet" marshmallow. Though my self-entertainment that ensued overwhelmed any qualms.

[Not Afraid]

I offered services in return for use of your Kindle!?!?!? Did I perform said service? ;)

[Alex]

Yes, you prevented me from procrastinating on the reading I needed to actually do. Though if you'd been two essays farther along you could have just read out loud for my benefit as well.

[Disneyphile]

And I was forced into mooching a "gourmet" marshmallow. I totally think Plush Puffs should be a requirement for Camp Swank.

[Snowflake]

Okay, I'm overwhelmed already!

But, how much mooching leeway will I have if I bring not only lots of bacon, and local gourmet marshmallows (chocolate or vanilla or mint flavored) and treats for Thurston?

[Not Afraid]

For camping with a group, your most important gear will be the personal stuff: tent, sleeping bag, ground cover, pad or mattress and light source. It also helps to have your own mess kit. Beyond that, it just depends on who you are camping with and what they already have. I ended up having Chris take my stove home with him because we didn't need it at our campsite.

[Gemini Cricket]

Then, of course, there was Gemini Cricket's ordinary Eveready flashlight ... which could project a spot on the Moon.


He used it to do live planetarium shows on the real starry sky.
And I didn't even break out the bigger flashlight. Imagine what that one could have done...

[Stan4dSteph]

There are also LED flashlights that you can power by turning a crank for a little bit of time. No batteries or fuel required.

[Morrigoon]

I had been meaning to post a list of lessons learned at some point, so I guess here's as good a place as any:

1. My camp chairs were totally inadequate. They were inadequate last year, and I thought I could pull off another year with them, but broke down and bought a new chair at Wal-Mart while travelling between camping trips. (This was going to be a note to myself about getting a new chair, but then I got one). The inadequate chairs were one that was too small and had no armrests, so is not comfortable for any significant length of time (but makes a great inside-the-tent chair for removing shoes), and one that was bigger and has armrests but also has a leg rest so you're in a permanently reclined state and it's a PITA to get out of, not to mention the whole feet thing prevents you from getting close enough to the campfire to be warmed by it or roast marshmallows. The chair I finally picked up was big enough to be comfortable in, had a reasonably high back (I would like higher so I can rest my head, but it's a low priority), and had armrests with a drink holder. Drink holders are essential.

2. The $5 folding table (also from W) was one of my best investments this year. Makes eating SO much easier, not to mention any other occasion where you might wish to set something down that you're using while in your camp chair.

3. That reminds me, this was a major lesson learned this year: MORE TABLES! I think next year I may get myself one of those folding picnic tables (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=7933628). Yes campsites have picnic tables, but between cooking and dining, you can always use more table surfaces.

4. Bring a pillow. Remembering that air mattresses puff up at the head and feet I thought I could get by w/out one this year. I ended up stuffing two seat cushions into a pillowcase because I found I did need at least some pillow (but you can get by with bringing a flatter pillow, if you're like me and you keep pillows of varying heights). One major reason is, you can pull corners of your pillow up over your shoulders and prevent cold air from entering your sleeping bag.

5. As much as I love my Disneyland hoodie, it has one major flaw: the pockets are on the side seams. This does not work well when your hands get cold sitting around the campfire, and it also does not work well when you sleep in your sweatshirt in cold weather, again, because you cannot reach way back to the side seams with any degree of comfort. Next year I'll bring my USC hoodies, which have the traditional front (along the center zipper) pockets. Seems a small thing, but actually, the decision to bring the wrong hoodie impacted me quite a bit.

6. Bring a ski cap/beanie/tuque (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuque) to sleep in. Keeping your head warm makes a HUGE difference!

7. Laying a tarp down on the ground and setting your tent up on top of it is very helpful in keeping your tent warm and clean. Originally, I was folding up the corners to clear the spots where I had to stake my tent, but then as my brother pointed out, "it's just a tarp", so I stopped wasting my energy and just hammered the tent stakes right through it. Right way to go. BTW: Big Lots has cheap tarps. 8x10 or smaller are super cheap, but under your tent, I've learned you really want to just get the size you need to cover under the whole thing. Since the small ones are cheap, get an extra and place it on the ground in front of your tent door. That helps keep dirt out of your tent as well, since you'll walk across the tarp first, removing some dirt from your shoes.

8. Listen to earlier comments about lamps. You want a lamp, not just a flashlight.

9. Don't bring too much food. You will anyway. The only thing you want spare of is canned drinks, and they don't necessarily have to be in your cooler.

10. Extra batteries

11. Sandwiches are not only "good enough" for lunch, but probably desirable. They travel well when you go hiking. Also the pieces of them don't take up much space in the cooler.

12. Freeze food (you don't need the first day) ahead of time. It'll thaw slowly over time, staying colder longer, in addition to helping keep your overall cooler colder by acting as additional ice.

13. Neosporin. I had to mooch some after I couldn't leave my mosquito bites alone and things got infected. And Benadryl. Especially if you're allergic to mosquito bites. I had to mooch that too. Wish I'd brought my own because I'd have used both more often.

[Morrigoon]

These are great (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=8571981). I'm currently coveting the full-size (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=8571996), and now that my old one is broken (I used it as a guest bed for a while, so it was seeing some use), I have a good excuse to get one next year.

[Morrigoon]

These are great (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=8571900). Not totally essential, but definitely holding a place on my "future equipment" list

[Cadaverous Pallor]

And I was forced into mooching a "gourmet" marshmallow. Though my self-entertainment that ensued overwhelmed any qualms.Heh, indeed, we also laughed our asses off.

There are also LED flashlights that you can power by turning a crank for a little bit of time. No batteries or fuel required.We brought one of those, and even with 3 LEDs in it and lots of cranking, it was very underpowered. We were glad we brought a regular one as well. I'd save those for emergencies.

These are great (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=8571900). Not totally essential, but definitely holding a place on my "future equipment" listAfter seeing how awesome DP and FP's was, this is on our new covet list.

[Kevy Baby]

10. Extra batteriesBecause the last thing you want happening on a camping trip is for BOB to fail!

[Capt Jack]

There's nothing more annoying than someone shining a light in your eyes over and over and over.

yeah, I had no idea that hat would be so annoying to folks. my apologies to all.
it was handy crossing a dark forest alone, but I think I'll leave that one out next time.

[Kevy Baby]

IN NA's case, when she had it off and hanging around her neck, it looked like one of those dog anti-barking shock collars. It amused me.

[Not Afraid]

I LOVED the usefullnes of the Petzel. However, with it being above my eyes, I forgot it was on until it was shining in someone's eyes. And, I forgot repeatedly.

I found that haveing a hands free light was a blessing.

[Kevy Baby]

It took me a couple of reads before I figured out that you weren't talking about a pretzel (http://weblogs.sun-sentinel.com/features/health/theskinny/blog/pretzel.jpg). I just couldn't figure out why everyone was so excited about a snack food.

[Snowflake]

Well, it is clear I will be an occasional camper. Where's the best spot to pick up some stuff and not spend a mint? REI? Target? Hunting now!

[Not Afraid]

If you want things that will last for years, I would invest in REI equipment. I used my first tent for 20 years. But, I'm not a fan of cheap camping equipment. There's nothing worse than having defective equipment when you are camping.

[Kevy Baby]

Well, it is clear I will be an occasional camper. Where's the best spot to pick up some stuff and not spend a mint? REI? Target? Hunting now!I suggest watching garage sales if you are up for that. REI tends to be on the expensive side, but that is because they usually have better quality stuff (though their sales rock).

While I did not scour it, Craig's list appears to have quite a few things available (YMMV).

But I agree with NA: get quality stuff. Cheap camping gear sucks.

Or you could just cover it all in one shot and get one of these (http://www.monacolasvegas.com/?gclid=CNqRjsi575MCFR8cagoddRJgWw#/Coaches/Signature/).

[innerSpaceman]

Actually, I'd love for people to post where they got their various bits of camping equipment. I kept asking during the trip, but mostly forgot the odd places I'd never heard of.

The cool extendable skeweres seemed to all come from Target. And Ken & Teresa's neat solar tentside lanterns were from Wal*Mart. But they also had these 6-foot tables that rolled up to no-space from a place I'd never heard of, and there's lots more from odd vendors.

[Not Afraid]

Sierra Trading Post is a good place to get closeouts. You have to know the good brands though.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

I'm actually selling our new tent on Craigslist right now because it had poor ventilation with the rainfly on and no privacy without it on. I wouldn't recommend that one (Kelty 4 person Green River).

However - you definitely could find a good deal on Craigslist. Read online reviews before buying any tent - that was our mistake!

Target seems to have the best deals and does carry some great brands, including Coleman. Our air mattress/pump came from there.

[katiesue]

I recommend the REI used gear sale. You have to get there early (some camp overnight) but you can get some really good deals. All items are marked with a tag stating what the defect is. I got Maddy and I both hiking boots for the $20 range.

Also just watch the sales towards the end of summer. Target, Sports Authority etc. You can find some good deals there as well.

[katiesue]

My tent bit too. I had too much ventalation. I'm sure if it was hot out it would have been great. I agree with CP read reviews before you buy.

[innerSpaceman]

I love my tent like nobody's business.


Yeah, there's little privacy in there during the daytime ... but alas, I've got nobody to be private with.

[Ghoulish Delight]

rei also has an online outlet. rei.com/outlet

[innerSpaceman]

I was so dissapointed with REI. They have tents and sleeping bags and hiking shoes, but I'm golden in all those departments.

Beyond that, they seem to specialize in Adventure Sporting Gear, and don't really have "camping" equipment, per se.



None of the things on my Covet List were from REI.

[Not Afraid]

I've been really happy with our new tent. (http://www.rei.com/product/693148)

It claims to be a 4 person tent, but it really only sleeps 2 with gear (and dog).

[katiesue]

At least at the San Diego stores, the REI Used Gear sale is this Saturday the 14th. Each store has different hours.

[Kevy Baby]

Our next tent (Pavillion actually) will be from Panther Primitives (http://www.pantherprimitives.com/medieval.html). I am figuring it will cost around $2,500 the way I want to configure it: 16 x 20 or 20 x 20 Marquee with Flame Retardant SunForger and a few specialty add-ons.

[Disneyphile]

From Costco: our tent, bedframe, fluorescent lantern, solar tiki torches (these are all from previous years, and no longer available)
From Fingerhut: EZ-up (http://www.fingerhut.com/ProductGroup.aspx?offergroupxid=47393&categoryxid=1348&cmCategoryID=search), rolling tables (no longer available, but similar ones here (http://www.walmart.com/search/browse-ng.do?ic=24_0&ref=125872.412807&catNavId=4128))
From WalMart: solar lights (http://www.walmart.com/search/search-ng.do?search_constraint=5428&search_query=solar&Find.x=17&Find.y=9&Find=Find&ic=48_0), kitchen organizer (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=5223224)

[Kevy Baby]

Right now at Costco, they have a very large three-burner stove. It is a true three-burner as there is room for a large pot on each burner simultaneously. Each burner has a 30,000 BTU capacity. I am VERY tempted (but trying to watch my budget as we went a little overboard this year).

[Morrigoon]

Dude, just saw this on fingerhut:
http://www.fingerhut.com/ProductGroup.aspx?offergroupxid=46071&categoryxid=297

*drool*

[katiesue]

Costco also has chairs similiar to mine with the table that flips out. I found mine at Steinmart which is kind of random. They also have them at BevMo but they're really pricy for what they are.

[Kevy Baby]

Dude, just saw this on fingerhut:
http://www.fingerhut.com/ProductGroup.aspx?offergroupxid=46071&categoryxid=297

*drool*But what brand is it? I wouldn't trust an off-brand air mattress.

[Disneyphile]

Costco also has chairs similiar to mine with the table that flips out. DirectorsChairs.com (http://www.directorschairs.com/table-height/black/cargodirectorchair.cfm#navbar=a) charges $49 for 'em.

[Kevy Baby]

Here is a great camping chair I just found:


http://barcalounger.com/images/bostonianII9010.jpg

[Capt Jack]

well....it IS a nice earthy brown color.

[Morrigoon]

Kevy: you have a point there, although my drool factor was the frame having a headboard and footboard to it. I'll probably save the money and get the Ozark Trail full size from WalMart instead.

[BarTopDancer]

This (http://www.fingerhut.com/ProductGroup.aspx?offergroupxid=61364&categoryxid=297&cmCategoryID=youmayalsolike297) is pretty spiffy.

[innerSpaceman]

Dude, just saw this on fingerhut:
http://www.fingerhut.com/ProductGroup.aspx?offergroupxid=46071&categoryxid=297

*drool*
Oooh, me wants (queen size camp bed). The only sticking point for me is the "electric" pump when I want to use this in areas with no electricity.


Sure, you can charge it up aforehand ... but N.A.'s experience at Swank Camp (not to mention my own) made me very glad my air mattress had a batter-powered pump. I think it's absurd to have an electric pump on such an item.

[Morrigoon]

BTD: Ooh! I have that! Got it on sale at Big Lots for $25, regularly $30. Also Coleman.

[Morrigoon]

Well, if you already have a battery-powered pump, then it's all good :)

[innerSpaceman]

No, no. The battery-pump is PART OF the air mattress, not a separate thing. It was fantastic ... before the mattress sprung an infindable leak.

[Betty]

Bring 2 tubs for washing dishes and a few old dish towels for cleaning up. (one tub to wash and one to rinse)

We also really liked having a perc. coffee maker and a tea kettle for boiling water for hot choc, dishes whatever - it boils it really quickly.

Tarps and bungie cords - along with a few trees you can make yourself a little shelter so when it snows while you're camping (!) you can eat your toast without it getting soggy. yeah - it snowed on us quite a bit when we were there.

snake bite kit. ya know - just in case.

something to start your fire with - fake log chunks, fire starter sticks, newspaper - something...

We've also got a small portable generator that recharges when plugged in. It's got a cig. lighter hole, regular electric plug, air compressor, and even car jumper cables. It's about a foot square. Not needed for everyone - but came in handy for us.

camp toaster - cheap and really great. I was so glad we had this.

those extendable forks for toasting marshmellow - walmart had a 2 pack for $2.50 I think - they work SO much better then a bent hanger. My marshmellow didn't twirl around and around.

I miss camping.

[Kevy Baby]

Kevy: you have a point there, although my drool factor was the frame having a headboard and footboard to it. I'll probably save the money and get the Ozark Trail full size from WalMart instead.Even Ozark Trail is not that good. If you read reviews on line of some of their stuff, it can be problematic. When we were looking for the bigger tent, we could have purchased an Ozark Mountain one that was about the same size, but half the price. However, there were WAY too many reports of it leaking. Also, we have purchased a couple other OM items that just didn't cut the mustard.

[Morrigoon]

Fair enough, I've seen the reviews. But most of my camping stuff is Ozark Trail, and so far it's been "good enough" for me :)

[Stan4dSteph]

I shop LL Bean (http://www.llbean.com) stuff a lot, and they have good guarantee on their products. If it breaks they will replace it.

All my camping gear is built for backpacking, so it's lightweight and portable. I don't have a tent though.

[Disneyphile]

Just to compare:

Bring 2 tubs for washing dishes and a few old dish towels for cleaning up. (one tub to wash and one to rinse)We usually just bring two spray bottles - one with soapy water and the other for just water. It's like a spray-on/wipe-off dish washer, and works great.

snake bite kit. ya know - just in case. We bring a small self-packed first aid kit with bandaids, assorted meds, razor blades, lancets, and Neosporin. It gets used more often than any of our other camping supplies.

something to start your fire with - fake log chunks, fire starter sticks, newspaper - something...Drier lint works really well, especially that from towels.

Also, wet wipes come in VERY handy, no pun intended.

[Kevy Baby]

Bring 2 tubs for washing dishes and a few old dish towels for cleaning up. (one tub to wash and one to rinse)How about bringing the kitchen sink (http://www.campingcomfortably.com/gsi-camp-gourmet-kitchen-table.html)!

We also really liked having a perc. coffee maker and a tea kettle for boiling water for hot choc, dishes whatever - it boils it really quickly.Better yet: the Coleman Camping Coffee Maker (http://www.coleman.com/coleman/colemancom/detail.asp?product_id=5008C700&categoryid=5180). It fits right over a burner on your camp stove and makes 10 cups of drip coffee. Under $35.00. Worked great!

http://www.coleman.com/coleman/images/products/5008C700T_500a.jpg

We've also got a small portable generator that recharges when plugged in. It's got a cig. lighter hole, regular electric plug, air compressor, and even car jumper cables. It's about a foot square. Not needed for everyone - but came in handy for us.As part of my Ryobi 18 volt tool kit, I have an air compressor (http://www.amazon.com/Factory-Reconditioned-Ryobi-ZRP730-Function-Inflator/dp/B0015IXN2S/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1213304167&sr=8-4). It works GREAT for air mattresses (and tires should the need arise). They also make a fan (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100485407&categoryID=502551) that runs off the same batteries, plus we have a car charger for the batteries (should the need arise). Plus, I happened to have my cordless reciprocating saw (like a Sawzall) and circular saw which came in handy for collecting firewood. Pumps that one needs to plug into the car to work are a PITA.

[Morrigoon]

Drier lint... Hmm... gonna have to try that!

[Not Afraid]

I'm pretty basic with my camping gear, but that coffee pot of Kevy's was something I fell in LOVE with.

As for an air mattress, I'm going back to my thermarest pads. I was very happy to have them back in my test on Friday night..

[Ghoulish Delight]

We barely had anything and were pretty good. Right now, our purchasing goals consist of organizational items and replacements for less efficient stuff. So, Camelbak instead of water bottles, more comfortable/accessible camera bag that can double as a backpack, good storage boxes instead of plastic bags and cardboard, and of course a better tent. Beyond that, I don't see ourselves needing much more.

[Snowflake]

Well this is what I think I need, right now:

Tent
Sleeping Bag
Camelback
Walking shoes
chair
mess kit
reading light
first aid kit
cooler
food & drink

Less if we end up in a cabin

[Morrigoon]

"mess kit" - my mess kit is a rubbermaid tub with my old pots & pans and some picnic plates and bowls in it. But if you wanna go for the all-in-one backpack version, I guess knock yourself out.

But yeah, pretty good, basic list.

Sponge and biodegradable (I believe that includes Dawn) dish soap is helpful too. Washing baked beans out of a pot with nothing more than water and a wadded up paper towel kinda sucks. I know.

[Morrigoon]

Oooh! I believe DP mentioned this to me:
http://www.fingerhut.com/ProductGroup.aspx?offergroupxid=62863&categoryxid=2160

[Not Afraid]

I LOVE my hammock (and will love it more when I get stronger carabiners). It came from Sierra Trading Post and was $44.00.

[Kevy Baby]

Right now at Costco, they have a very large three-burner stove. It is a true three-burner as there is room for a large pot on each burner simultaneously. Each burner has a 30,000 BTU capacity.This is the one at Costco (http://cgi.ebay.com/CAMP-CHEF-EXPEDITION-3X-BURNER-CAMPING-STOVE-GRIDDLE_W0QQitemZ300231195375QQihZ020QQcategoryZ62 117QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem). I believe it is about the same price, just no shipping cost.

[Kevy Baby]

Oohhh... I just ran across this little gem: a camp OVEN (http://www.rei.com/product/777454)!!!

http://media.rei.com/media/bb/e87a9a78-612e-47db-9371-517d0cb7fb35.jpg

Powered by propane, the Camp Chef portable camp oven and range lets you enjoy fresh baked goods from the comfort of your campsite.


With a top temperature of 400°F, the oven bakes muffins, cookies, casseroles and bread to perfection
Oven includes two racks and a removable oven thermometer
Two-burner range on top blasts a combined 10,600 BTUs, getting your cooking done in short order
Nonstick enamel cooking surface cleans up easily; fold-out sides block wind for efficient cooking
Matchless ignition lights oven and range easily
Folding lid and carry handles facilitate transport
Operates on a disposable 16.4 oz. propane canister, sold separately; can be adapted to use with a bulk propane tank (adapter and tank sold separately)

[Alex]

I'm going to write to my congressman and ask that he push through legislation requiring 2 Swank Camps per year.

This would apparently incite enough spending to ward off any potential recessions.

[Capt Jack]

:rolleyes:
so...is it just me or is there a fine line between "camping" and "homesteading" that this thing severely crosses?

just me?

k

[Not Afraid]

This is a picture of a guy I saw in Yosemite. I laughed at how much stuff he had. I may laugh at Kevy too - that is until I taste some warm, fresh baked cookies while sitting 'round a campfire.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/lisacone/SE7JahoREeI/AAAAAAAAADY/iNjYgaqzRd8/IMG_4619.JPG?imgmax=800

[Ghoulish Delight]

I'm with you on that one Jack. I prefer to avoid even a simple camp stove when I'm camping (notice I did the sausages over the campfire), though fully appreciated the spectacular food we had.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Seriously, if you're bringing a stove, I may have to kill you

[Alex]

If you're camping and want warm, fresh baked cookies then a solar oven is the appropriate choice.

If god wanted you to eat warm, fresh baked cookies while camping at Sheep Creek he wouldn't have put so many tall trees there. Obviously, he wants you to eat warm, fresh baked cookies while camping at Death Valley.

It is a sin to violate gods will. It is obvious that the Camp Chef Portable Oven from REI is an abomination in g-d's eyes.

[Not Afraid]

I appreciate having a stove, a tent, a good bag, a pad and a good light. We've been making coffee in French Press for a while now and that serves the 2 of us just fine as long as we have a stove to boil water.


Other than that....well, I'm going to need a bigger car if I get much more stuff. I already carry along way too much kitchen equipment.

[Kevy Baby]

:rolleyes:
so...is it just me or is there a fine line between "camping" and "homesteading" that this thing severely crosses?After viewing our tent set-up, would you be surprised by this?

[Capt Jack]

well....no. and for you I can see where that might come in handy in your extended stays in the War tent of the Ages.

but for anything but waging war, I think it's....lets just say "a bit much"

[Alex]

Ooh, you'll (getting back to the OP) also need one of these:


http://mopac1.tripod.com/kw_w900s_geiger_mixer_lg.jpg

After all, you could line the lap pool with plastic, but that looks tacky!

[BarTopDancer]

If you're camping and want warm, fresh baked cookies then a solar oven is the appropriate choice.

If god wanted you to eat warm, fresh baked cookies while camping at Sheep Creek he wouldn't have put so many tall trees there. Obviously, he wants you to eat warm, fresh baked cookies while camping at Death Valley.

Public mojo for Alex. That is hilarious!

It is obvious that the Camp Chef Portable Oven from REI is an abomination in g-d's eyes.

It's a sign of the rapture.

[innerSpaceman]

OMG, there's really a site called "campingcomfortably.com"??? Do they know about us?


I'm gonna want everything there.


I don't even camp-cook and I want the Kitchen Sink (I do alot of camp cleaning up because I don't camp cook). We lucked out with a "real" sink nearby this time ... but I've camped with a portable camp sink before and it's heavenly.

[Morrigoon]

Steve: drool away...

http://www.campingcomfortably.com/gsi-camp-gourmet-kitchen-table.html

[Disneyphile]

Damn you. Why'd you have to show me that site??

And, CJ - I always homestead when I camp. :p

[innerSpaceman]

Everybody has their line in the sand. I think I found Kevy's battery-powered Power Tools to cross the line of "camping," but as one wise swanker pointed out ... to each their own.

Personally, I think convenience items that are designed for outdoor and camping use to be hysterical. In that vein, I like a camp bed rather than a "real" bed brought out to the wilderness.

These camp kitchen set-ups crack me up ... but they are also very useful. And I think a fun element of Swank Camp is the luxuries we bring ... all the better if they are designed for the great outdoors or portability. I'm thinkin' NirvanaMan's portable Martini Bar. That was a hoot ... and oh-so-useful for swanking!


To some, these luxuries may seem like camping sacrilege ... and I can understand that point of view. But just as I enjoyed a combination of gourmet meals and weenie roast ... I love me some camp luxuries that make the roughing it less rough while providing a touch of humor and class.

[€uroMeinke]

Actually, I liked seeing what people brought in the context of paring down for camping - what luxury item do you bring? Of course I bond with NM over the cocktail equipment, but there was ISM's well furnished tent, Kevy's Queen size bed, or Brad's walking stick that lent character to each campsite.

[Not Afraid]

I bring Thurston. ;)

[Cadaverous Pallor]

OMG those kitchens are unbelievable!

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Actually, I liked seeing what people brought in the context of paring down for camping - what luxury item do you bring? Of course I bond with NM over the cocktail equipment, but there was ISM's well furnished tent, Kevy's Queen size bed, or Brad's walking stick that lent character to each campsite.Totally agreed. I guess my guitar counts as mine.

[wendybeth]

Hair dryer and curling iron.


I kid! It's ponytails all the way, baby.

[Morrigoon]

Trying to think what my luxury item is... I guess my Coleman couch, but I'm not sure if that counts since it became my bed when my other bed broke.

[wendybeth]

Touchlights. They are really handy in the pitch-dark, and don't emit so much light that you wake up everyone in the vicinity.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Heh, I noted that the last time we'd been to King's Canyon we had film cameras and used paper maps. Mapquest either didn't exist or just wasn't as ubiquitous as it became (to be superceded by Google). So I suppose a digital SLR and a gps nav were luxury items.

And the air mattress. Our tent would have been, having previously had tiny 2-person tents that you could barely crouch in, let alone stand. But the whole rain fly thing kinda made that suck.

[frodo potter]

For me everything we bring is a luxury. I started backpacking before I started camping so the idea of having anything but a sleeping back a pup tent and cloths is a luxury. Out of everything though I think the bed frame and mattress are the two that I get the most joy out of and the easy-up over the bear box is probably the most useful.

[Snowflake]

I interrupt this useful thread to mention in passing, FP your new avatar scares me.

[Kevy Baby]

Everybody has their line in the sand. I think I found Kevy's battery-powered Power Tools to cross the line of "camping," but as one wise swanker pointed out ... to each their own.The power tools were more of a joke than anything. Since we have the nice big van, it was easy enough for us to just throw the bag in.
________________

But yes: to each his/her own. The reason for the big tent was that we got sick of having to lie on a partially deflated air mattress to get dressed in the morning. We already have the bed, so it is nice to have around. And I just like the silliness of overkill in what can be brought (also, because of the SCA stuff we do, some of our gear is targeted towards accommodating larger numbers of people).

[Kevy Baby]

I interrupt this useful thread to mention in passing, FP your new avatar scares me.I could bring Joyce back:

http://snobsite.com/archives/g1joyce.jpg

[blueerica]

I come from the school of no tents. That said, I always put one up, even if I don't use it. Mainly for stuff storage.

We're kind of camping starting tonight. I'm considering going somewhere to get a GPS nav system. We have many of the other amenities. Need to buy some food. We're just putting the air mattress in the back of the Xterra this time, though... Nothing fancy. Minimal swank. We're just digging in dirt for treasures!

[Morrigoon]

Get yahoo maps to back up your nav system though. Mine occasionally makes some very bad road choices!

[Betty]

We're just digging in dirt for treasures!

I'm intrigued! What and where?

My son and I love to look for cool looking rocks - nothing of particular value really. He's got one we call the meat rock as it looks like a small steak with marbling.

[blueerica]

We're heading out to Middle of Nowhere, Nevada - just south of Denio - to mine for black opals (and other miscellaneous cool stones). We've been wanting to do this for a while, and between work and other stuff, it's just taken until now for us to go.

So excited! I love to dig!

[Capt Jack]

Ive wanted to do that for awhile. various places Ive seen and heard of where mining and camping are combined. a dedicated digger can easily fund their trip based on what they find. gold, opals, diamonds, emeralds....even fossils

yeah, I could totally do that.

[Snowflake]

Ive wanted to do that for awhile. various places Ive seen and heard of where mining and camping are combined. a dedicated digger can easily fund their trip based on what they find. gold, opals, diamonds, emeralds....even fossils

yeah, I could totally do that.

Me too! I've wanted to, there is a tourmaline mine or something like that (I'm bad with remembering what stone is what) near LA area. Do not know if they are an open to the public mine or not.

[blueerica]

Next Camp Swank - Land Pirates... Yar... we be searchin' fer treasure!

Or booty...

Depends on how you look at it. ;)

[Not Afraid]

I like looking at booty.

[Snowflake]

I like looking at booty.

Not mine honey!

[Brigitte]

That's what we were going to do for our vacation in 2 weeks, but gas prices have forced us to steer closer to home. We were going to Montana to dig for sapphires and pan for gold, but instead we'll do garnets right here near home. The kids are pretty excited about this trip! We'll be camping too, hopefully it stops raining soon :P

[Disneyphile]

Ooooh! I totally want to go rock hunting some time!

[Snowflake]

I saw soemthing on Travel Channel some time back about this. 3 spots in San Diego area Capt. jack, as I recall!

Himalaya Mine - www.highdesertgemsandminerals.com
Oceanview Mine - www.digforgems.com
Cryo-Genie Mine - www.cryo-geniemine.com

Again, I'd love to do this, too!

[Capt Jack]

wicked...might just have to give one of those a run!

thanks snowy!!

[BDBopper]

I am hoping to make Camp Swank 2010. I'd be coming from far away and it doesn't make sense to bring a bunch of equipment (that I don't have currently and I'd have to buy in 2 years time BTW). How could I not be a moocher? And no, saying "Screw it" and not coming is not an acceptable option though it could be an option depending on what happens between now and then. I don't want to be considered a moocher.

[BarTopDancer]

Let's go snipe hunting!

[Alex]

I was so disappointed when I found out there really is such a thing as a snipe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snipe)that could be hunted.

[BarTopDancer]

I was so disappointed where I found out there really is such a thing as a snipe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snipe)that could be hunted.

DANG IT! :(

[Alex]

I know! The joke isn't funny any more (though just as mean). Now it needs to be a snipaluffagus hunt or something.

[Disneyphile]

Huge hammock sale! (http://www.hammocks.com/clearance-sale/1030+1645.cfm)

[Kevy Baby]

Huge hammock sale! (http://www.hammocks.com/clearance-sale/1030+1645.cfm)You lied: they look like regular sized hammocks to me.

:D

[BarTopDancer]

I know! The joke isn't funny any more (though just as mean). Now it needs to be a snipaluffagus hunt or something.

But everyone already knows that adults can't see the snufaluffagus.

Maybe it should be land-shark hunt.

[Stan4dSteph]

I was so disappointed when I found out there really is such a thing as a snipe (http://youtube.com/watch?v=oHg5SJYRHA0)that could be hunted.This is a totally missed Rickroll opportunity.