Sunday, 19 June 2016

Additional Camping Equipment You Might Want to Consider

Get Freshly Brewed Coffee With Coleman Camping Coffee Maker

Want to brew your own fresh coffee during your camping trips? Read further to find out if the Coleman Camping Coffeemaker is what you need.
The Coleman camping coffee maker allows you to savour a freshly brewed cup of coffee anywhere, on camping trips or any other outdoor activities. Coleman is renowned for its tradition in manufacturing outdoor equipment for more than 100 years. This new coffee maker is especially designed to work anywhere, and needs only a camping stove to work, allowing you to enjoy great coffee when there is no power source available.

Main Features

  • The Coleman camping coffee maker can brew up to ten 6-ounce cups of fresh coffee without the need of a power source. All that is needed is a Coleman 2 or 3 burner camping stove, which delivers all the heat it needs to produce delicious coffee.
  • The steel base of this efficient camping coffee maker will fit not only on Coleman stoves but on most traditional camp stoves.
  • The reservoir has a large opening, which allows it to be easily filled without spilling any water.
  • The large glass carafe can hold up to ten cups of delicious freshly brewed coffee.
  • The coffee maker also includes a removable swing-out basket, which can fit between 8 and 12 cup filters.
  • The Coleman camping coffee maker also features a pause-and-serve option, allowing anyone to pour a cup of coffee during the brewing process, without creating a mess.
  • This reliable coffee maker comes with a one year warranty.

Well Known Advantages

Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee outdoors

The main advantage of the Coleman camping coffee maker is that it allows outdoor lovers to taste a great cup of fresh coffee in the morning no matter where they are.
This excellent camping accessory can offer you a great morning and a nice start of the day and all you need is a Coleman or other traditional 2 or 3 burner camping stoves for it to work.
Just add water to the easy to fill the reservoir, place the coffee maker on the stove, and the boiled water will move through the filter and extract the aromatic flavours from the coffee, without the bitter taste of acids found in burned coffee.
Campers who want a cup of coffee right away don’t have to wait until all the coffee is brewed, thanks to the Pause and Serve option. The Coleman camping coffee maker can fill the easy to pour carafe with fresh aromatic coffee in around 20 minutes, and it can also be used in preparing tea, chocolate or other hot drinks.

Main Disadvantages

Although useful for car travelling or regular camping trips, it is a bit bulky and heavy, which makes it not very suitable for more adventurous mountain hiking trips.
A full pot of coffee takes about 20 minutes or more to fill, which can be a bit too long although it should be reminded that, although it doesn’t need a power source, it works on small camping stoves, so the required brewing time is reasonable.
There is also no option to keep the coffee hot, although it can be solved by using the Pause and Serve option, or by pouring the coffee into a thermal carafe.

Customer Feedback

Most customers using the Coleman camping coffee maker were satisfied by its performance. Many were delighted by having the possibility to savour a fresh cup of coffee on their camping trips. Most found using the coffee maker simple and straightforward, and the resulted coffee was highly appreciated.
Some persons complained about the fact that the coffee maker may become damaged if using high heat, while others thought that the required 20 minutes to fill a carafe was maybe a bit too long. However, most reviews were positive, with people being pleased with the low price and efficiency of this coffee maker.

Verdict

The Coleman camping coffee maker is a must have for any outdoors lover who also enjoys a fresh cup of coffee in the morning. Its very low price and the fact that it does not need any power source make it ideal for anyone enjoying time in nature. The ease of use and efficiency of this camping coffee maker make it a smart choice to people enjoying outdoor adventures.


 

Enjoying Your Camping Trips With Camp Chef Outdoor Oven

A great oven that provides all the necessary features to run outdoors without requiring a significant investment is often hard to come by. However, this is precisely what you can get from the Camp Chef outdoor camp oven.
Featuring a powerful internal oven and two burners fitted with matchless igniters that can be used all at the same time without reducing any of the unit’s efficiency, the Camp Chef is considered among the top outdoor cookers available at under $200.

Most Notable Features of the Product

Portable, easy to use, and made from sturdy materials that are designed to keep the unit together through the toughest conditions, the Camping Chef outdoor oven excels through portability, ease of use and sheer performance.
The unit comes with two 7,500 BTU range burners, while also featuring a 3,000 BTU internal oven equipped with two oven racks. The temperature that the propane burners are capable of generating can reach a staggering 400 degrees, and with the help of a built-in thermometer, you can easily regulate the heat to cook virtually any food.
Despite the fact that it’s small and portable, the oven has a roomy interior, measuring about 10 x 16 x 10 inches, almost giving you the sensation that it’s bigger on the inside.
 
What Makes It Stand Out?

Many of those who have already tried it out can attest to the fact that that there are many advantages to using this remarkable outdoor oven. In the following, you can find a short list of some of the unique, practical benefits it can provide:

  • The Camp Chef outdoor oven is one of the best choices if you’re looking for a cooker that was expressly designed for camping trips and can also be used during power outages.
  • The practical, convenient design and sturdy construction of the cooker make it easy to both bake and boil or fry a variety of different dishes at the same time.
  • With this unit, you can have both burners on, as well as the oven, without the temperature falling below 350 degrees.
  • This Camping Chef model is mainly designed to run on standard propane canisters of around 16 oz. However, it also supports the secure attachment of an additional bulk tank in case you need it for heavier cooking tasks.
  • Only for a small added investment – compared to what you’d pay for a budget price outdoor cooker – you get all the features and advantages presented here.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

Of course, there are still a few aspects that may require improving, particularly when it comes to how easy the Camping Chef can be used under more challenging circumstances:

The oven does not come with a thermostat which means that you have to keep a close watch on it to regulate the oven’s performance for optimal results.
Also, when the wind gets stronger, you have to be careful not to let the stove go out. Usually, however, this is only a problem when the wind tends to change direction.

Testimonials and Feedback

Most of those who have bought the Camp Chef unit in the past were seeking a portable, yet versatile cooker that isn’t likely to present any unstable behaviour or break down. Many of them have said that the oven met and even exceeded all these expectations.
Sturdiness, speed, heat retention and low fuel consumption are among the favourite qualities that people have pointed out when talking about the Camp Chef model.
Also, many have admitted that they have owned lesser cookers which had lasted for many years, and in their opinion, with proper care and maintenance, the Camp Chef will outperform those units regarding longevity.

A Reliable Choice for Outdoor Cooking

Without a doubt, there are hundreds, if not thousands of people who have had the privilege to see this cooker in action and witness the benefits it can deliver regarding power, practical benefits and long term reliability.
Even though some might find it challenging if they are looking for a more “automated” solution to their problems, the Camp Chef outdoor camp oven will take you fully into the spirit of a camping trip. It will help promoting a convenient and enjoyable experience, without sacrificing the comfort and sense of freedom you’d expect from a relaxing getaway.


 

Coleman Travel First Aid Kit Useful For Any Trip

Any fan of outdoor adventures must first think about safety. Read further to find out more about the Coleman Travel First Aid Kit.

The Coleman Travel First Aid Kit is a well-balanced kit that is perfect for any outdoor adventure, from day hiking to mountaineering trips. This well thought-out first aid kit contains 200 pieces, which are useful for many injuries ranging from simple scratches to larger scuffs and wounds.

Main Features

  • The Coleman Travel First Aid Kit contains 200 pieces useful for a wide range of wounds and situations.
  • All the pieces are contained in the solid impact resistant canvas, which is also partially waterproof. There are a few dozen different kinds of plastic and small bandages, and some butterfly and knuckle bandages.
  • The 15 antiseptic wipes are a must for any trip, as they are needed for treating various wounds such as scratches and cuts.
  • The kit also contains sting relief wipes, safety pins, antibiotic ointments. A few utility tools such as a razor blade, finger splints, tweezers and a pair of gloves are very helpful in various situations.
  • This well balanced Coleman first aid kit also contains gauze pads, adhesive tape and medication such as antihistamine, acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

Main Advantages

Inside the Kit

This first aid kit is good balanced, and the semi-hard case that contains the 200 items is sturdy and resistant, but also small enough to fit into a backpack. It is also partially waterproof, protecting the bandages and other items which might get damaged from the contact with water.

The two inside covers have mesh pouches easy to organize, which is very helpful in the event an item is urgently needed. The separate pouches contain items organized depending on their function. These pouches are also broken down in a few individual pockets, making it easy to fit the 200 items the first aid kit contains.

The Coleman Travel First Aid Kit has all the essentials a person would need for a small hiking trip. The bandages come in various shapes and forms, making them useful to various types of wounds. The antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointments are vital to cleaning wounds and preventing infection. The medication contained is helpful in treating various affections from pains to common cold and wasp stings.

Main Drawbacks

This first aid kit isn’t a complete one and thus not very suitable for long hiking trips in the mountains – although the case is large enough to be able to add the necessary items, and the numerous pouches and pockets make it easy to organise all items allowing for quick find in the case of emergency. The fact that the kit lacks items helpful in treating traumas and sprains is another reason why it’s not complete for long expeditions, although as mentioned, they can be added later on, thanks to the large capacity of the first aid case.

The medicine included might expire faster than expected, depending on the time purchased. However, besides a few pills and ointments, all other items have no expiration dates, so all you need to replace is just a few inexpensive pills.

Customer Feedback

Most feedback was positive, with the majority of customers praising the good quality of the case and the fact that it is resistant and compact, while also small enough to fit into any backpack. Most customers appreciated the low purchase price, and some have even declared that the quality of the case alone would have been worth the price.

Some more experienced adventurers have expressed a bit of dissatisfaction about the fact that the kit does not contain some items necessary for long journeys and mountain trips. However, thanks to the low purchase price and the carrying capacity of the first aid case, they had no problems with adding some items on their own. Overall, clients were satisfied with the kit, and those who didn’t modify the content found it perfect for car trips and light day trips.

Verdict

The Coleman Travel First Aid Kit is a nice addition to any hiker or car traveller. Although lacking a few items to be declared complete, its great purchase price and case quality make it a smart buy for anyone wishing to ensure that they can deal with most minor injuries and unforeseen accidents across their trips.


 

Chef Explorer Camp Oven

Reliable, well-designed and packed with useful features, the Chef Explorer Camp Oven will likely meet even the highest expectations during a camping trip.

Finding a reliable propane stove built for power and efficiency is not an easy task, especially if your budget is somewhat limited. The Chef Explorer Camp Oven was created to provide an optimal level of quality in this regard, allowing for a broad range of uses, while maintaining the ideal resilience needed for long term use.

Practical Features

  • The two burner stove comes with a large cooking area covering a surface of 14 x 32 inches.
  • Made from sturdy materials and built to provide an optimal level of stability in outdoor settings, it can withstand an impressive amount of heat.
  • Weighing only 36 lbs, it’s as lightweight as it is manageable, presenting a wide assortment of high-quality features that include two powerful aluminium propane burners able to produce a total of 60,000 BTU/h, an appliance-style design featuring advanced and convenient temperature controls, and a Clover Leaf cooking surface.
  • Additional features include detachable legs which make it easy for the user to move or store the stove while it’s not in use. Also, the product comes with a reliable, 3-sided windscreen designed to keep the burners from going out even in challenging conditions.

The Main Advantages of Using the Camp Oven

Apart from simply looking good in your backyard or being light enough to be carried around the camping site, the Chef Explorer Camp Oven has a few traits that would impress even the most experienced chef:

  • The stove is, first of all, easy to set up and use, so you don’t have to worry about anything getting burned or undercooked even if you’re not an expert.
  • You can use it on family outings, a picnic in the park or even for a larger gathering in your back yard.
  • To give you an idea of the raw power of its two, 30,000 BTU/h burners, this unit can boil about 3 gallons of water within a few minutes.
  • One of the most practical advantages of the Camp oven is that it can be used without a problem during a power outage.
  • You can make good use of it for anything from home canning to cooking a wide assortment of different dishes in record time.

Despite all the advantages it presents, the Chef Explorer Camp Oven unit is quite cheap, delivering above average value compared to similarly priced stoves.

Negative Points and Other Considerations

There might be a lot of people who simply love these stoves, and if you look at the benefits presented above, it becomes clear why. Nevertheless, there have still been a few minor inconveniences that some have expressed regarding this product:
While the cooking area is equipped with a windscreen, the burners are not. On a windy day, this can make using the stove properly more challenging.
Another point off regarding convenience is that you cannot use the oven on a tabletop. Fortunately, its legs provide more than enough stability for all intended purposes.

Feedback from Previous Buyers

The resilience, exceptional power and practical design of the Chef Explorer Camp Oven is among the most commended traits that people have talked about in their online reviews. Some have been very happy with the stove’s layout as well, claiming that it was incredibly fun and easy to use right from the start.
Also, many have pointed out that despite the powerful heat it produces, it is impressively sturdy, and features an uncanny ability to control the temperature generated by the burners.
A few of the buyers who wanted a bit more from the stove regarding features have also said that it would be worth spending a little more to buy the “Pro” model. However, most were more than satisfied with the value that this Camp Chef Explorer stove can offer, despite the affordable price.

The Verdict

This is a product built by practical-minded people who know precisely what qualities a good stove needs to deliver. Its power, reliable control and exceptional stability allow the user to get great results even without constant attention, and the convenient features and large cooking area will turn your cooking chores into a highly enjoyable experience.
While it might not be a million dollar stove, the Camp Oven does offer a few key advantages that many expensive units lack, and it undoubtedly delivers more than enough value in exchange for its price.


 

Light Up Your Camping Night With Coleman LED String Lights

The Coleman LED String Lights enjoy quite some popularity among those who love spending time in the great outdoors. Find out what they’re all about.

Coleman has been producing quality outdoor items for over 100 years. They combine quality with affordability to allow outdoors enthusiasts products that make spending time in nature a truly wonderful experience. The Coleman LED string lights offers a great way for enjoying quiet evenings in the warm light they provide, making time spent outside a pleasure.

Main features

The Coleman LED string lights are specially built in the shape of Coleman classic lanterns and are composed of 10 miniature five-millimeter LED lights. The whole string measures 12.7 ounces with the power source and, without it, 10.2 ounces, and each lantern measures 2.77 inches in height and 1.51 inches in width.
These stylish small lamps provide a bright and warm light that can last for up to 20 hours by using 3 AAA batteries. The battery pack measures 2.32 x 1.04 x 3.39 inches, although the Coleman LED string lights do not come with the batteries included.
 
Main advantages

Because Coleman started their business more than 100 years ago with lanterns, they have a tradition of manufacturing long lasting powerful LED lights. With this latest product, they have managed to combine efficiency with style, the ten miniature lanterns offering bright light while still maintaining a classic look that adds to the overall atmosphere and charm.
These festive small Coleman lanterns are a great addition to any campsite, backyard or party, enhancing the mood and offering an unforgettable evening experience. By using these lovely little lights, any night can be transformed into an opportunity to relax in a quiet and beautiful atmosphere.
The Coleman LED string lights comes at a great purchase price. They only require three small AAA batteries which will allow them to light up any night, and the fact that they can offer bright light for up to 20 hours without replacing the batteries translates easily into at least three nights usage. Not only are these LEDs very cheap and provide surprisingly bright light but using them is also inexpensive, thanks to them using very little battery power.
These LED string lights are very light and occupy very little space which makes it possible to fit them into any backpack. The battery compartment is virtually waterproof, and the on/off switch has a rubber cover.
As batteries power them, they are excellent at hanging anywhere, since they don’t need to be plugged into any source of energy. That makes them great not even for camping trips, but also for hanging them outside the house, without having to worry about having a power source nearby.

Main disadvantages

These LED string lights could provide a little more light than they do although considering their small size, low purchase price and low battery power usage, they are worth every penny.
The string lacks hooks or any other means of hanging them, and it could have been longer, although, except when installing them in tents, they can be easily attached by passing the string over branches and such.

Customer feedback

The overall feedback was positive, with most customers praising the classic design and low purchase price. Many people were impressed by the light they provide, although there were some who wished the light would have been a bit brighter. Many clients praised their design and warm light and said they performed excellently on various camping trips and in the outdoors in general.
There are a few cases where people bought two or three sets, which allowed them to light the night truly. A few customers would have wanted to have the strings a bit longer, and to have a case to properly pack the light strings.
Another highly appreciated feature, besides the pleasant atmosphere these small lanterns provide, is the fact that they last for a very long time, with most people saying they kept the LEDs turned on for even longer than 20 hours without a problem. Most clients were pleased with their purchase, with some considering buying more of these light strings.
Verdict
The Coleman LED string lights are a cheap and reliable source of light, with the classic design of the miniature lanterns offering charm to any backyard or campsite. Their long lasting capabilities and reliable light, combined with the very affordable, selling price make them an excellent choice for people wishing to experience delightful evenings and nights in the outdoors.

 

Comfortable Outdoor Cooking With Coleman Multi Fuel Stoves

Sporter Multi Fuel Stove is an efficient, economical appliance that will cook your meal in no time. Read complete review on to learn more.

The one-burner Sporter Multi Fuel Stoves from Coleman are one of the most efficient compact stoves currently available. If you are a camping enthusiast, or you need a small, but powerful cooking stove in your garden, this great appliance has everything you can need.

General Features

The unit is small but very efficient. The single burner can deliver 10,500-BTU, being a great alternative to large and sometimes very awkward-to-handle outdoor fireplaces. The appliance runs on a 2.1-pint fuel tank. The stove measures 7.38 x 7.8 x 6.55 inches in dimensions and weighs only 2 lbs, being completely portable.

What Makes the Sporter Stand Out?

This small, powerful appliance comes with numerous extra features that add even more comfort and efficiency to your camping trips:

  • The Dual Fuel technology makes it possible to operate the stove not only on unleaded gasoline but on Coleman’s special fuel (known as white gas because it is free of additives, so it won’t contaminate your food while cooking on the stove) as well, making the unit very economical.
  • Efficiency is at its best with the Sporter Multi Fuel Stoves: the appliance boils a quart of water in 4 minutes.
  • The tank of the stove is large enough to keep the unit burning on High for as long as two hours on end. One single fill will take you through a 5-day camp – the unit is so efficient that you can use it on medium and still get a very large amount of heat out of it.
  • The unit is also very comfortable to use: it comes with a built-in support to accommodate the pot.
  • The appliance comes with advanced wind protection, allowing your flame to burn high even in the strongest winds.
  • The unit includes the filter funnel as well.
  • The burner is made of durable material and it is completely adjustable.
  • The special design that features almost no moving parts makes the entire unit is very resistant and durable.
  • The unit is conveniently priced.

Any Drawbacks?

The Sporter Multi Fuel Stoves from Coleman are packed with great features. However, you must be aware that it is a leather washer pump, which means that it can dry out quickly, so it requires a little bit of extra care.

What Users Say about the Unit

No wonder the Sporter Liquid Stove from Coleman gets so many positive reviews – it has so many qualities. Here are a few excerpts from what reviewers say:
“I love camping, and I was badly in need of a dependable stove that is small enough not to add too much weight to my backpack. The Sporter Multi Fuel Stoves from Coleman just fits the purpose perfectly. I have tried the unit in howling wind – the flame didn’t even tremble.” (Jason, 33)
“I never go camping without this great little gadget. It is efficient; it does not consume much, and it fits comfortably into our luggage, wherever we go. We have already had several great meals made on the stove, and we are looking forward to making much more.” (Ann, 36)
“If you have ever tried to cook on an open fire outdoors, you know that it is not easy. The Sporter Multi Fuel Stove from Coleman has made the task much easier. It is very tidy as well – you don’t have to clean away the debris like after a traditional campfire.” (Peter, 32)
“I have just returned from my first camping trip with my new Sporter Multi Fuel Stove. I initially took it with me to brew my coffee in the morning, but we ended up preparing the main meal of the day on the stove, too. It gets the food ready in no time; it is lightweight and reliable – just as I expected.” (Tim, 36)

The Final Verdict

The Sporter Multi Fuel Stove from Coleman is recommended not only for avid campers and trackers. The unit does an excellent service on shorter outings or if you just want to warm up something quickly in the garden. The appliance is robust, reliable, durable and comfortable to use, making it a great asset in your household and a friend you cannot go camping without.

 

Most Reliable Garmin GPSMAP 64s Handheld GPS Navigator

Garmin GPSMAP 64s GPS Navigator is an accurate and highly sensitive GPS unit, ideal for activities such as hiking and travelling. Read on to learn all about it.
The Garmin GPSMAP 64s is one of the manufacturer’s latest additions and an overall improvement of the Garmin 60C model. This highly accurate and highly sensitive Handheld GPS receiver can track your position anywhere, regardless of trees or terrain , such as canyons or valleys. It is an excellent piece of equipment that is fit for activities ranging from regular travelling to geo-catching and even sea navigation.

Main features

This accurate GPS unit has a bright TFT colour display which is easy to see even in broad daylight. It’s included 64 MB microSD card can be used to store additional map details if required.
Besides Garmin 64s’ memory card slot, optional microSD cards can be bought from Garmin, which can provide with highly detailed topographic maps, nautical charts or even city streets.
This reliable Handheld GPS unit is compatible with most products from Garmin MapSource series, which also include BlueChart, Fishing Hot Spots, City Navigator and U.S. Topo and Recreational Lakes.

Main advantages

  • The Garmin GPSMAP 64s Handheld GPS Navigator is one of the latest additions in the industry and benefits from the most modern technologies. It’s insane accuracy and high sensitivity makes it possible to track your position regardless of any obstructions such as buildings or trees.
  • This powerful unit will lock satellites within the first minute of use.
  • The easy to use 2.6-inch, 256-color display allows you to clearly and accurately see all valuable information and mapping and trip details no matter the weather conditions.
  • The lightweight and rugged case is highly resistant to shocks, and it is also water resistant, being possible to keep it submerged for up to 30 minutes in one-meter water.
  • This GPS unit is highly efficient energy-wise, as two AA alkaline batteries while giving it working time of up to 30 hours.
  • This Garmin GPS also features a 10,000 point automatic track log, and you can retrace your route in both directions with the help of the 500 points each 20 saved tracks.
  • The 64s’ trip computer has many useful inclusions such as stopped time, total time moving and overall average, maximum speed and an odometer. The computer benefits from a fast processor which allows it to provide fast auto routing or even to give turn by turn directions.
  • The 64 MB microSD included can store MapSource software, and download is very easy thanks to the included USB or serial port interfaces. The dedicated serial port can be used to share navigation instructions with autopilots, repeaters and plotters.
  • The highly intuitive buttons and the four-position rocker pad allows for easy navigation through the many useful features.
  • There are other additional fun features such as an integrated outdoor calendar which can offer optimal hunting and fishing times and other information such as moon rise/set or its location.

Main disadvantages

Despite the performance and high accuracy and sensitivity of this GPS unit, there are few hiking or backpacking maps. However, the Garmin high-resolution topographic map set does cover national parks. The map sets also tend to be quite expensive to buy, and high-resolution map sets from other companies cannot be loaded onto Garmin GPS units.

Customer feedback

Most of the customer reviews were positive, with many people praising the high quality of the GPS, the high accuracy and sensitivity. All users were impressed by the fact that the GPS manages to lock satellites in a very short amount of time. Other appreciated features were the waterproof capabilities, the high-resolution options and the overall reliability of this GPS unit.
There were a few complaints about the high-resolution maps of certain areas and the incompatibility of Garmin units with other topo map sets. Most users are pleased with the performance of this GPS and have successfully used it in various activities.

Conclusion

The Garmin GPSMAP 64s Handheld GPS Navigator is one of the most accurate and reliable GPS units on the market.
Its price is decent considering its quality of design and plethora of functions. The numerous features and high-resolution options make it a strong buy and a must have for adventurous people.



from What Camping Tent https://www.whatcampingtent.com/blog/additional-camping-equipment-you-might-want-to-consider/?&owa_medium=feed&owa_sid=

Thursday, 16 June 2016

Camping Cookware & Cutlery – The Essentials

So we have discussed camping cast iron cookware in some depth, but what about spoons, plates and cups I hear you say…..These are all discussed below.

All of the information is from personal experience and only the best have been mentioned, again in the hope of saving you time and money. There is such a large variety of products on the market that it can be confusing and very easy to buy the first thing you see.

Trust me; I have done this loads of times.

Plates, Bowls and Mugs

Enamel camping gear is the way to go for plates, bowls and mugs as they are touch, safe and lightweight, all the necessary components for the outdoors. There is only one downside of enamelware, and it’s that they can chip. The chips are only tiny, and if need be, you can buy chip repair kits to touch up that area. They are also cheap and easy to clean, here is Australia you can usually get a 12 piece set, four bowls, four plates and four mugs, for under $60.00. If you need smaller amounts, these are available individually also for approximately $5.00 per plate and $3.00 per bowl and mug.

If enamel is not your thing, there is also plastic and titanium available. Personally, I am not a big fan of plastic as I found that they were not as strong as the enamel and I melted a few when getting food off the fire. Titanium is also strong and lightweight and possibly more durable than enamel. However, they are also a lot more expensive. One plate can set you back almost $25.00. I would rather replace a lost $5.00 enamel plate then a $25.00 titanium one.

Cutlery

You have a few different options when it comes to camping cutlery, but personally, I recommend an excellent traveller’s set that comes with a pouch. The bag rolls up and ties up nicely so that you don’t lose any bits and pieces. The only downfall I have found with these is the plastic handle. I have been in the middle of stirring a stew and left the fork resting on top of the pot, sure enough, I melted a small bit of the handle. One the other hand, if the fork was completely metal I probably would have burnt myself, I think I prefer the melted handle. These sets come with four knives, forks and spoons. We throw in 2 everyday teaspoons also. A set like the one pictured will set you back only $25.00 but should last you a long time.

Other options include foldaway sets and plastic; again I am not a fan of the plastic as they break very easily and can melt. The foldaway sets are ideal for solo adventures or hiking, and they fold up very small.

Kettles and Pots

Kettles and pots are also available in enamel with the kettle costing approximately $40.00 and the pot $35.00. If you were looking at getting these, it would be better to buy them in a set with the plates, bowl and mugs as it will work out cheaper. If you were planning on the purchase of a cast iron dutch oven, you can give the pot a miss altogether as anything that you would make in a pot can either be done in the oven or the kettle.

I have also used tin kettles for camping in the past, as pictured, that allow the lid to be fully removed. These are great as not only can they be used for tea and coffee but you can also cook noodles and small amounts of pasta in them. Remember, if you can use the one item for more than one purpose, it’s a bonus.

Other types available include stainless steel whistle kettles which are great if you are in the habit of leaving the kettle boiling while doing other things. However, they are not very versatile, and I love versatility.

Mixing Spoons, Ladles, Tongs

These are the things that most people forget about and end up using their fingers to turn the sausages on the bbq. The first rule….never buy the cheapy wood spoons and stirrers from the local $2 shop. Within the first month, you will end up with mould all over everything. Try to get stainless steel gear preferably with a wooden handle so that it doesn’t get too hot; bbq equipment is the best way to go. Get yourself a pair of tongs with the largest handles as possible so that you are not burning your hands when trying to get your campfire spuds off the coals. You will need a spoon, ladle, tongs and a flipper. But remember, you only take with you what you are going to use, so if you are not planning on making pasta you can leave the ladle at home.

Miscellaneous Gear

This is all the items that you kick yourself for leaving behind once you get to your secluded spot and start to cook your feast.

Do not forget your gas stove!

Can opener
Firelighters and matches
Potato Peeler
Fireproof Gloves (available from good camping stores for only $10.00)
Scissors
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Fold up strainer
A wide shallow bucket to do the dishes
Sponge and dish washing detergent
Tea towel
Most of these items are ‘take only if needed’. It’s always a good idea to work out your menu before you leave and take only what is required for those meals. That way you are not using up valuable room in the car.

What To Cook On

There is a lot of division between gas bottle and butane stoves and which one is the best. Personally, I love my butane camp stove and would never go back to the gas bottle cookers. The are light, cheap, last for years and very easy to pack. These little gems use butane gas canisters which again are cheap as chips. A single burner stove will set you back about $20.00 and the double about $45.00 with the canisters normally going for $20.00 for a box of 12. They come with a tough plastic case, and they can easily be packed behind or under car seats. Compared that to the gas bottle cookers, not only do you have to find room for the stove but also the gas bottle and gas refill stations are not always readily available.

Where possible I recommend cooking on the open fire and coals, it adds to the entire outdoors experience. But if this isn’t an option, go the butane gas stove.



from What Camping Tent https://www.whatcampingtent.com/blog/camping-cookware-cutlery-the-essentials/?&owa_medium=feed&owa_sid=

Sunday, 12 June 2016

Camping with a Toddler or Baby? Things you want to know!

Read this article to ensure your child is comfortable enough during your outdoor trip so that every family member can enjoy the adventure.

Leave early

As long as you are prepared, it’s never too soon to take your baby camping. Taking them out while they’re young gives them a chance to get used to sleeping in strange new places. Choose a location close to home for your first camping trip. A familiar area and quick access to extra supplies will take some of the stress out of your journey. Take another family along for company and extra hands to help out around the campsite.

Leave yourself plenty of time to arrive early and inspect the campsite. Check the ground carefully for sharp rocks, garbage or cigarette butts left by previous campers. Debris or unknown plants could make their way into your child’s curious hands or mouth. Set up a play area away from the fire pit, open water and the cooking area.

Ensure you have one bag packed with any medications your child needs, a first aid kit, extra formula, sunscreen and other essential supplies? Keep this bag organised and within easy reach in case you need it.

Parents can expect family camping to be slower paced and more relaxed than singles or couples trips.

You will spend more time at the campsite cleaning, preparing food and changing diapers. It still leaves plenty of time and room to let your baby explore the environment around them. The key to keeping them safe, comfortable and entertained is to create safe zones. Let them munch on twigs, play in the grass or dirt and maybe even discover a bug or two.

Babies under six months old enjoy watching the activity around them. Use a standing seat or back carrier to keep them safe and let them check things out from a new point of view. Use rolled blankets or a playpen to create a safe area for crawlers to venture around in. Toddlers require constant supervision so have one adult on toddler duty at all times. Use games and activities to keep them busy.

Dress your child for the weather

Taking into consideration peak sun times (between 11 am and 3 pm) and the time of day when bugs are at their worst (usually around dusk). Since insect repellant and sunscreen are not safe for use on children under six months old, hats and protective clothing are necessary. Loose, breathable cotton clothing is best for hot weather camping, while warm layers will help to keep your child comfortable in cooler climates.

Babies and toddlers can become excitable or homesick while camping. To ease bedtime worries, ensure that your child has a comfortable, quiet area for sleeping. Make it free of biting bugs and weather extremes. If there is room in the tent, set up a playpen for the baby to sleep in. They will be comfortable and secure for the night. Familiar scents soothe babies, so lay a parent’s worn t-shirt or light jacket over their bottom sheet and tuck the corners underneath. Allow toddlers to bring their favourite toy to bed with them. Use layers of light blankets to keep them warm. Young babies should wear a light cap in warm weather or a knit hat with earflaps to bed on cooler nights.

Breastfeeding mothers don’t need to worry about bottle sterilisation while camping, and formula feeding parents can make this an easier task with the right supplies. Use disposable bottle liners and pre-mixed formula for easier feeding and clean up. Nipples should be boiled after each use. Bring a good supply of sterile water for cooking, drinking, mixing juices and washing dishes. To save room, use a large pot both for cooking and dishwashing. Wash it out last, after the dishes and bottles are finished. Avoid placing your cooking area within 100 yards of your sleeping area to reduce the risk of a curious animal stopping by for a snack. If your family comes across a wild animal in your travels, respect their space and remove the child from the area immediately. You can always go back and clean up any mess they may have made later.

Antagonising a racoon or bear with your presence is very dangerous – especially when small children are involved.

Make sure you have the right tent for your family!

Remember to have fun

Games and activities are a great way to introduce your child to nature and keep everyone entertained throughout the trip. If you’re hiking with a toddler, bring plenty of snacks and fluids. Plan a trip that is within comfortable walking distance for the child. Younger babies love the view from a back carrier as you trek across the countryside. Avoid slippery slopes, unsteady rocks and open water to keep the hike safe and enjoyable. Campground chores are also fun games for your child. Collecting firewood can be a scavenger hunt, even if they only bring back a few small twigs. Sitting around the campfire just begs for spooky stories to be told. Washing dishes and laundry is an excellent opportunity for a water fight!

Make the most of your trip by enjoying every minute with your child. Let them get dirty; you can wash their clothes later. Let your baby crawl and explore in the safe zone you’ve created for them. Explain to your child what you are doing and why. They’re learning from your every action so set a good example. Teach them to respect the campsite environment by removing your garbage, appreciating the safety zone around the campfire and obeying campsite rules. Family camping shouldn’t be intimidating, even for beginner campers. It just might be the most fun you have this season!



from What Camping Tent https://www.whatcampingtent.com/blog/camping-with-a-toddler-or-baby-things-you-want-to-know/?&owa_medium=feed&owa_sid=

Thursday, 2 June 2016

Cooking Like A Pro While Camping

It’s a common myth that when you’re camping, you can only eat pre-made canned foods or bbq meats.
I’m here to tell you that this is so far from the truth that it’s not funny. When we go out bush, we eat better than we do at home, why? Simple, we have more time. It’s not uncommon for us to have fellow campers commenting on the delicious smells coming from our site and it’s super easy to do.
Our typical menu will include tuna mornay, foil wrapped fish and veggies, pizzas, roast legs of lamb and even apple crumble if we are feeling naughty.

Nothing better than sitting around the fire on a cold night with a large hot bowl of apple crumble with cream. My mouth is watering just at the thought of it.

Within this section of the site, I will not only give you stacks of easy and fantastic recipes, but I will also show you how to use your cook wear properly. I cannot recommend cast iron cookware enough!! There is nothing that can not be cooked in a decent dutch oven and skillet. The best thing with cast iron cookware is that as long as they care for properly, they will outlive you. To see all the different types of cast iron cookware available continue scrolling down this page.

Ok, who’s hungry? Well, what are you waiting for…..get into the recipes already?

Cast Iron Cookware For The Great Outdoors

As stated previously, in my opinion, cast iron is the only way to go with cookware. Yes, it is heavy and can take up a bit of space. However, the pros far outweigh the cons. Let’s have a closer look at these:

Cast Iron Cookware Pros

Robust and near unbreakable
Will last forever if looked after correctly
Super easy to clean
You use less oil with cast iron, so it’s better for your health
If seasoned correctly is stick free
Relatively inexpensive
You can use them in the oven at home, on a camping stove or over the campfire
Excellent even heat distribution

Cast Iron Cookware Cons

Heavy
Space consuming
They need to be seasoned regularly

When I first started camping, I purchased ordinary household cookware, and I can tell you from experience, they just don’t cut the mustard. One pan, in particular, cost me $30.00 and lasted just one-weekend trip!! I could have purchased a small cast iron skillet for the much, and it would still be going today. Save your money!!! Purchase cast iron from the get go, you will thank me in 20 years when you’re still using it.

With regards to the 3 cons, these can all be overcome or made easier to handle. Once you have used different cast iron items, e.g., skillet, dutch oven, pan, you will soon work out that you can make all of your weekend meals on just one piece of cookware. For example, your dutch oven will not only cook stews, but also pizzas, soups, curries, the list goes on and on. If you only take the piece of cookware that is relevant, you will save on space and it won’t be as heavy as a whole set.

Seasoning your cast iron could not be made any easier nowadays, the seasoning comes pre-made in a tube or bucket and you simply rub it into the cast iron. If you can’t be bothered doing that, you may need to go back to cooking canned spag bol.

What Types Of Cast Iron is Available

Cast iron cookware has been used for hundreds of years and was used in most kitchens on fireplaces before the kitchen stove top was introduced in the middle of the 19th century. Since this time, there has been multiple improvements and modifications, particularly for camping use. We have listed below the standard cookware that is readily available and, more importantly, commonly used outdoors. When you start looking around for cast iron cookware, particularly Dutch ovens, you will notice the QT; this is the size of the cookware and ranges from 2qt-22qt. Think about what you will be cooking and how many people you will be cooking for before rushing out and buying something that may end up being too small.

Dutch Ovens

Dutch ovens are one of the most popular types of cast iron cookware available and rightfully so considering how versatile they are. When using them over a campfire, you can put the lid on and place hot coals on top creating an ‘oven’ effect and this technique is perfect for making damper and other pieces of bread. Ranging in sizes from 2qt to 22qt there is a size for every occasion, whether travelling solo or with a family of 6 or more. There are also other accessories that can be used along with the Dutch oven including the tripod that is pictured. With the Dutch oven tripod, you can hang the Dutch oven over the flames rather than sitting it on hot coats. As you will see in the recipe section both methods are used to cook different things.

Griddle

The cast iron griddle is probably the next piece of cookware that would get a fair bit of use. Being flat and somewhat small they are easy to pack away for trips and come in handy for a variety cooking purposes. Simply lay the griddle over hot coals or on a camp stove and you are ready to make such things as sausages, steaks, hamburgers, toasted bread or even pancakes.

Skillet/Frying Pan

The skillet is one of those pieces of cookware that you take if you have the room as most of the food cooked in it can also be cooked in either the Dutch oven or the griddle. Skillets are perfect for cooking meat that needs to sit in a marinade, for shallow frying and large pies or bakes. There are many sizes to choose from, but don’t be overwhelmed, grab one that is suitable for what you will be cooking.

Jaffle Iron

Need I say more…… 2 pieces of bread, can of spaghetti, whack it on the campfire coals and you were done. Delicious toasted sandwich.

Accessories

Along with the Dutch oven tripod, there are a couple of other accessories that I have found very useful around the campfire. The first being a lid lifter which comes in very handy for removing the lid from a hot dutch oven. The second, pictured, is a trivet which is used to put under the Dutch oven to elevate it from the coals. However, if you wrap it in foil and place it inside the dutch oven, it can be used to lift food from the bottom, ideal for cooking pizzas.



from What Camping Tent http://www.whatcampingtent.com/blog/cooking-like-a-pro-while-camping/?&owa_medium=feed&owa_sid=