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Bertha Venation

(21,484 posts)
Tue May 26, 2015, 09:46 PM May 2015

Camping Questions

Hi. I'll be going camping for the first time in August.

Can you recommend a good and inexpensive (oxymoron?) 4-man tent? What is the best source for tents?

Do I need a sleeping pad if I have a cot?

There will be communal dinners, but I don't know anything about camp cooking. I'll probably take a cooler full of sandwiches for myself. But if I should need to contribute, what should I take to make and share? What's easy but good? And what kinds of pots & pans & utensils will I need? And how will I boil water for tea? Gotta have my tea.

I am looking up answers to these questions as well as posting here. If you can offer any advice besides answers to my questions, I'd welcome it.

Thanks!

Cross-posted to Outdoors

42 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Camping Questions (Original Post) Bertha Venation May 2015 OP
For coffee and tea we find it easiest just to boil water on the camp stove petronius May 2015 #1
Hi, petronius Bertha Venation May 2015 #10
Ok here we go. Lochloosa May 2015 #2
Excellent suggestions, Lochloosa. Bertha Venation May 2015 #11
One thing I have not seen suggested. LIGHTS. Lochloosa May 2015 #18
Headlamps are great too. cwydro May 2015 #20
and make sure you have your headlamp or flashlight in your pocket long before dark. LNM May 2015 #28
Yes, you will need a sleeping bag. A HERETIC I AM May 2015 #3
Hi, Heretic Bertha Venation May 2015 #12
Are you camping in a public campground? KMOD May 2015 #4
Hi, KMOD. Bertha Venation May 2015 #13
Wet Ones! Lars39 May 2015 #23
I haven't done primitive camping in years. KMOD May 2015 #26
If there is water available there are these things called camp showers. alphafemale May 2015 #31
Cool! I'll check on whether anyone uses one of these. Bertha Venation May 2015 #33
Frequently camping as a child (about 20 weekends a year for years) taught me to DebJ May 2015 #35
keep the TP in a closed zip lock baggie irisblue May 2015 #36
Dont forget the graham crackers, marshmellows & hershey's chocolate bars! mackerel May 2015 #5
Oh, yeah! Bertha Venation May 2015 #14
I hate camping, but my two cents: Laffy Kat May 2015 #6
Hi, Laffy Kat Bertha Venation May 2015 #15
Hai, backatcha! Laffy Kat May 2015 #21
All of the above...but in addition. Chan790 May 2015 #7
What a unique experience. Bertha Venation May 2015 #16
More advice from a failed camper CrawlingChaos May 2015 #8
Idiot? No, you do not sound like an idiot. Bertha Venation May 2015 #17
Also, I camp with a good friend at music festivals and she ALWAYS has Baby Wipes with her. Lochloosa May 2015 #24
It would be helpful if you gave a few more details of your trip. Grammy23 May 2015 #9
Bring more water than you think you will need. demmiblue May 2015 #19
Bug repellent! cwydro May 2015 #22
Sierratradingpost.com NV Whino May 2015 #25
Looks like you will be here... antiquie May 2015 #27
Yep. That's it. Bertha Venation May 2015 #34
Jiffy Pop is a blast for camping. Dont call me Shirley May 2015 #29
A Mason jar of Coffee, a jar of Kush and pile of this ... seveneyes May 2015 #30
Hobo pie makers. You can but practically anything in them. alphafemale May 2015 #32
My thoughts discntnt_irny_srcsm May 2015 #37
If there is any ohheckyeah May 2015 #38
You've already received tons of great advice. So here are my personal picks: Coventina May 2015 #39
Please understand a four man tent Codeine May 2015 #40
A taller four man tent is great for one person - haele May 2015 #41
Benadryl. a la izquierda May 2015 #42

petronius

(26,580 posts)
1. For coffee and tea we find it easiest just to boil water on the camp stove
Tue May 26, 2015, 09:56 PM
May 2015

and use either a french press or a melitta (extra hot water gets used for cleaning.)

Campmor.com is my first go-to for inexpensive and quality gear, including tents.

By communal dinners, do you mean potluck, or everyone pitches in to a set menu and shares cooking/cleaning duty?

And I guess it depends on the cot, but I'd go with a pad as well - self-inflating thermarests are great....

Bertha Venation

(21,484 posts)
10. Hi, petronius
Wed May 27, 2015, 06:28 AM
May 2015

Everyone pitches in on the dinner, and shares clean-up. Maybe I'll try to do lots of clean-up in lieu of contributing food and cooking. I do not want to sit off away from other people and eat my sandwiches.

I will get a pad.

Thanks!

Lochloosa

(16,018 posts)
2. Ok here we go.
Tue May 26, 2015, 10:13 PM
May 2015

Go with the cot. Feeling good in the morning will make the day go better.

To contribute. Bring corn on the cob And sticks of butter.

Doesn't need refridge for a day or two. And can be cooked several ways. Boiled, roasted etc. and who doesn't like corn on the cob. Aldo it's filling and good starch for drinking.

Utinsils. Bring a GOOD knife. Not those "hunting" knives. A good 8" cooking knife. And a cutting board. Other than that your basic knife and fork and wooden of metal plate.

Tea? Depends on your heat source. A standard cooking pot will do. Just don't expect it to be used for anything but camping.

Remember , less is better. If something can be used for three things you have eliminated two things you don't need.

A good tarp and rope is always handy.

Bertha Venation

(21,484 posts)
11. Excellent suggestions, Lochloosa.
Wed May 27, 2015, 06:29 AM
May 2015

Corn - brilliant. Silly me; I wouldn't have thought of a knife and cutting board.

Thanks!

Lochloosa

(16,018 posts)
18. One thing I have not seen suggested. LIGHTS.
Wed May 27, 2015, 07:36 AM
May 2015

It gets dark in the woods. The have some great LED lights for your tent or just for hanging around. Don't expect a flashlight to be enough.

 

cwydro

(51,308 posts)
20. Headlamps are great too.
Wed May 27, 2015, 08:16 AM
May 2015

Leaves your hands free and illuminates whatever direction you're looking in.

Even Wal-Mart sells them. Take extra batteries.

LNM

(1,068 posts)
28. and make sure you have your headlamp or flashlight in your pocket long before dark.
Wed May 27, 2015, 02:41 PM
May 2015

It gets dark fast and then it's impossible to find.

A HERETIC I AM

(24,317 posts)
3. Yes, you will need a sleeping bag.
Tue May 26, 2015, 10:16 PM
May 2015

You say you are going in August, but not where.

The colder the temps outside, typically the more expensive the sleeping bag is going to be. You could do with using sheets and blankets on a cot, but they aren't beds, and you are likely to wake up to find all the covers on the ground! Not to mention air flows under and all around a cot making the fabric of the cot itself a bit of a heat sink., unlike your mattress at home.

Use a sleeping bag.

A cheap, run of the mill, old fashioned mostly cloth sleeping bag, good for staying toasty on summer nights where it won't get too cold will cost a LOT less than a waterproof, top of the line one made of modern, lightweight materials designed to keep you warm in below freezing temps.

Do you have a Bass Proshops, Cabelas, Gander Mountain or similar store near you?

Those all have good to extensive camping departments. You need to talk to a knowledgeable person while looking at what you want to buy.

Easy foods to cook and wow people with are stews and meat dishes cooked over the fire. Rice is simple and very versatile. Most of the prep work can be done at home before you leave, providing you aren't going to have to hike in with all your gear. That is a whole other ball game.

If it is RV'ing or tent camping but with the vehicle right close by, you can put all the food in coolers and be good to go.

Just google something like "Camp fire recipes" and you'll find tons of ideas.

Here's your tea kettle!

http://www.amazon.com/Camping-Blue-Enamel-Tea-Kettle/dp/B003JUICC6

HAVE A BLAST!

One more edit;

Old Boy Scout trick;

If you want to keep the pots and pans you are using to cook over the fire from getting all black from the fire, rub soap (Ivory works particularly well) all over the bottom of the pot or pan. Just rub on a good layer.

The bottom of the pot will clean up like nobody's business!

Bertha Venation

(21,484 posts)
12. Hi, Heretic
Wed May 27, 2015, 06:40 AM
May 2015

We'll be in northeast Connecticut. I don't know what to expect, but then, I haven't spoken yet with the organizer and folks who have been there. I certainly plan to do that.

I'd planned on getting a sleeping bag. Good to know I don't need a fancy schmancy one.

Bass Pro Shops and Gander Mountain are within driving distance; Cabelas is too far away.

Thanks for all of your suggestions! Ivory soap . . . who knew?

 

KMOD

(7,906 posts)
4. Are you camping in a public campground?
Tue May 26, 2015, 10:23 PM
May 2015

Is there fresh water available?

If you are camping with others who have experience in camping, someone will most likely have a propane stove-top. Will you be cooking by fire, or will someone have a propane grill or a gas grill?

For tea you'll just need a small pan to boil water in.

Will there be flush toilets and showers where you're camping?

Bring toilet paper and hand soap, because sometimes they are not provided.

Is there grocery shopping nearby?

What state will you be camping in?

Bertha Venation

(21,484 posts)
13. Hi, KMOD.
Wed May 27, 2015, 06:45 AM
May 2015

I love questions!

I'm told this campsite, in NE Connecticut, is very remote and rustic. In fact, the event is called Rustic Roots Primitive Music Camp. To give you an idea, the toilet is a trench. That almost made me say forget it, but the pull is too strong. Besides, they said there will be a port-a-potty. No toilets, no showers. The only time I've gone five days without bathing was after major surgery. I'm sure I'll get ripe, but everyone else will, too.

I think there will be fresh water. Just in case, I plan to bring a few gallons. I'm sure that cooking will be both by fire and propane/gas stove/grill. I don't believe we'll be near a grocery store.

Lars39

(26,093 posts)
23. Wet Ones!
Wed May 27, 2015, 08:25 AM
May 2015

You are getting thrown in at the deep end by doing primitive camping!
Bring sleep clothes so you dont sleep in what you wore that day. The moisture in the clothes can make you cold at night.

They also make lovely no-rinse bath stuff you can find in Walgreens near pharmacy.
Bring a good camp chair, flashlight, extra batteries, toilet paper, pillow, hat, water bottle, travel mug, bug spray, sunscreen, rain poncho, snacks, and garbage bags.

Google camping checklists for more ideas and consult other choir members, too.
Drive yourself there so can leave if you need to, on your own terms.
Good luck!

 

KMOD

(7,906 posts)
26. I haven't done primitive camping in years.
Wed May 27, 2015, 02:11 PM
May 2015

You are brave.

Reading through the thread, it looks like you have gotten excellent advice. Here are a few rambling suggestions.

Baby wipes are a must. Some other suggestions that have not yet been mentioned, would be hydrogen peroxide, triple antibiotic cream and bandages. Also burn pads, I always manage to burn myself when camping, lol. You also should bring tweezers, advil or motrin, and visine and Kleenex. Hand sanitizer and those pre-soaped dishpads are handy, too.

I would also bring an extra pair of shoes or boots in case it rains and your shoes get wet. Extra socks, too.

I don't know if they get bears in CT, but put all food and coolers in your vehicle at night. If you leave any bread product unattended, birds, chipmunks and squirrels will find it. Tie any garbage bags off the ground, away from where you are sleeping.

Bring a portable chair. Bug repellent that repels ticks.

Maybe you could be the snack person. That's easy. Chips, nuts, crackers.

Nights can be cold in August. Bring a warm jacket.

But most of all, have fun! I hope you get some clear nights, the stars are gorgeous when you are away from civilization.

 

alphafemale

(18,497 posts)
31. If there is water available there are these things called camp showers.
Wed May 27, 2015, 06:44 PM
May 2015

You fill them in the morning, hang them in a sunny spot and they will heat throughout the day.

It is a comfort to feel somewhat clean. And this is just a collapsible rubber sack with a spout so easy to pack.

DebJ

(7,699 posts)
35. Frequently camping as a child (about 20 weekends a year for years) taught me to
Thu May 28, 2015, 09:07 AM
May 2015

ALWAYS bring my own toilet paper, everywhere. Haven't regretted that yet!

Laffy Kat

(16,354 posts)
6. I hate camping, but my two cents:
Tue May 26, 2015, 10:38 PM
May 2015

Volunteer for breakfast duty one morning. It is almost impossible to screw-up bacon and eggs even on a fire pit, plus the groceries are relatively inexpensive. Oh, and oatmeal is both filling and cheap (throw in some raisins and/or sunflower seeds).

 

Chan790

(20,176 posts)
7. All of the above...but in addition.
Tue May 26, 2015, 11:35 PM
May 2015

Pack warmer than you think you're going to need.

I nearly died of hypothermia during college camping in Shenandoah in late August because it never occurred to me how f**king cold it can get at 3am 1200' above sea-level outdoors. I only woke up before I succumbed to the elements because a deer stepped on me.

Coincidentally...I don't actually know how cold it got...but there was frost involved so 32°F at the warmest...

Bertha Venation

(21,484 posts)
16. What a unique experience.
Wed May 27, 2015, 06:48 AM
May 2015

To be stepped on by a deer -- maybe that was some kind of spiritual act on the deer's part, so that you wouldn't die. (Not kidding; not making light of your experience.)

I will pack warmly. Also, many of the people who will be there have been to this very site in years past for the same event. I'll ask them what kind of clothing to pack.

Thanks!

CrawlingChaos

(1,893 posts)
8. More advice from a failed camper
Wed May 27, 2015, 05:23 AM
May 2015

First off, I must echo the words of the poster above me. Be prepared for cold. Bring thermal layers, even if you think you won't need them. It gets so cold on the ground and at night (even with a pad) - I had no freakin' idea until I experienced the wonders of camping for myself. I will never forget it - I felt like I could feel ice crystals forming in my bone marrow and I thought I might actually freeze to death. Even skin-to-skin contact with another person in a sleeping bag felt like almost nothing. It was one of the most miserable nights I've ever spent.

Second, be sure you have waterproof boots with proper hiking treads. Do not assume, as I did, that athletic shoes will be sufficient. As you can imagine, I came home with many scrapes and bruises.

Also, assume that your socks will get wet and be prepared with back-up pairs. And they should be nice warm socks meant for the outdoors if at all possible (I swear I'm shivering just thinking about this).

Also, I would be sure to bring my own personal first aid supplies, especially something for blisters if there's going to be any hiking/climbing involved.

I know I probably sound like an idiot, but the truth is I'm hopeless girly-girl type who had never given any thought to these matters until my baptism by fire (or should I say ice).

You will be much better prepared and probably have a great time!

Bertha Venation

(21,484 posts)
17. Idiot? No, you do not sound like an idiot.
Wed May 27, 2015, 06:59 AM
May 2015

I realize all of your suggestions come from your experience, and those are the best suggestions.

I have good boots. I wouldn't have thought of extra, and super warm, socks. I'd planned on getting a first aid kit.

Thanks, Chaos!

Lochloosa

(16,018 posts)
24. Also, I camp with a good friend at music festivals and she ALWAYS has Baby Wipes with her.
Wed May 27, 2015, 08:36 AM
May 2015

you know...for wiping....

Grammy23

(5,807 posts)
9. It would be helpful if you gave a few more details of your trip.
Wed May 27, 2015, 05:50 AM
May 2015

Where are you camping....as in what state and will you be at a park? State park, etc.
How long will you camp?
What kind of facilities does it have? Water hook ups? Electricity? Showers? Grills?
How many are going? (For estimating food you can contribute)

Be sure to take towels, wash cloths, soap and shampoo. There is NOTHING that feels better than a shower if you get hot and sweaty during the day! It will revive you and make you feel lots better....almost as good as a nap! LOL

Carry extra shoes and socks....some shower shoes, too, if you use public showers.
Rain slicker is handy if rain is in the forecast.

I would not depend on sandwiches for the whole time. But that is just me. Grilled veggies are delicious, as well as grilled chicken or burgers....if you have a way to keep them cold. I make up burgers, freeze them at home and carry on ice in a zip lock bag. Usually eat them the first night.

Trail mix is good and something you can share.

A deck of cards or other easy to transport game can be fun, too.

Lots of information on Pinterest and other places. Read up, ask questions and HAVE FUN!







demmiblue

(36,742 posts)
19. Bring more water than you think you will need.
Wed May 27, 2015, 07:46 AM
May 2015

If you are bringing a cooler, do not fill it with ice, but with frozen water bottles. Not only will it keep the cooler cold, but you can use them as a water source when they thaw.

Whatever you do, do not keep food (even in a cooler) in your tent!.

Definitely check out Pinterest... it is a great source for some neat ideas.

NV Whino

(20,886 posts)
25. Sierratradingpost.com
Wed May 27, 2015, 10:29 AM
May 2015

Usually has good buys on camping gear. Overstock and some seconds. Don't buy seconds.

Dont call me Shirley

(10,998 posts)
29. Jiffy Pop is a blast for camping.
Wed May 27, 2015, 06:26 PM
May 2015

Good hiking sandals, like Keene or Reiker type. Don't forget shorts and short sleeves for day. And a swimsuit, that pond looks great, and an inflatable water mattress! And towels don't forget towels. Frisbee. Soccer ball.

 

alphafemale

(18,497 posts)
32. Hobo pie makers. You can but practically anything in them.
Wed May 27, 2015, 06:55 PM
May 2015

I grew up using bread but using tortillas is much better.

By the way.a hobo pie maker is similar to a waffle iron type device that has a long handle that you use on a campfire.

I've made pizza, quesadillas.

Recently had the epiphany of cooking hotdogs with cheese and onions or whatever in the hobo pie maker.

Buns inevitably get crossed.

The dogs were awesome in the toasted tortilla.

You can also Go sweet with these and use fruit filling.

discntnt_irny_srcsm

(18,470 posts)
37. My thoughts
Fri May 29, 2015, 07:25 AM
May 2015

I apologize for the long reply and anything that may be over serious.
I'll try to cover things that are of special concern and/or less obvious.
Everyone has a different idea of roughing it. For some that means you'll need to find and purify water and hunt to eat. For others that means only a black & white TV.

Sleeping & shelter:
I infer from the cot arrangement that this won't be a hiking trip and that you'll be near your vehicle.
Anything but a rounded foot on a cot may puncture the floor on a tent. Old socks make a good cushion.
If you can, I suggest an oversize tent. I found this:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Dsporting&field-keywords=Coleman%20Sundome%20Tent
Bring a light blanket, pillow, etc.
Bring a waterproof ground cover. Condensation often covers the ground in the morning or after a rain. A blanket wrapped in a waterproof mat makes a good cushion to sit on.

Food, snacks, cooking, storing and disposing:
Consider metal plates along with pans and pots. Learn to make coffee in a pot or bring instant. Mr Coffee and Mr Kuerig don't work in the woods. Let me mention right here, SUGAR and CREAMER! For snacks I like slim jims, jerky, cans of tuna and boneless chicken, protein bars and GORP (good old raisins and peanuts).
Small serving size cups of applesauce, pears, etc. need no refrigeration.

Considering meals: http://allrecipes.com/recipes/everyday-cooking/on-the-go/camping/
PLAN AHEAD. Plan every meal and have a backup for when you're just tired or don't want to stand in the rain and cook.

Utensils including what you may need for serving.
Remember a small bottle of detergent. Dawn is very gentle and can be used for hand washing or shampoo.
A canteen is always a good idea.
Various sizes of zip seal plastic bags.
Trash bags.
These are handy:
http://www.amazon.com/Oscarware-3-Pack-Disposable-Topper-12-Inch/dp/B00E97FAAA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1432849504&sr=8-1&keywords=disposable+grill+toppers
Peanut butter needs no cooling but keep the jelly in the cooler after opening.

Clothing and footwear:
* Plan for rain.
I would bring 10 pairs of socks and spare footwear. (Soft sneakers don't cut it if hiking in woods or hills is planned.)
Bring a waterproof hat and a poncho.
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2047675.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.TRS0&_nkw=Camo+Boonie+Bush+Hats&_sacat=0
http://www.esafetysupplies.com/10-Mil-Emergency-Rain-Poncho.html?gclid=CKvtueTE5cUCFZUXHwod_zoA7w

* Exercise and activity
Plan to change for things like volleyball or canoeing. Sneakers are good those activities. A wet hiking boot could take the rest of the trip to dry. Swimwear is always a good idea for camping near water. If it's hotter than usual, an afternoon swim is a great refresher.
Sporting and recreational equipment. 2 T-shirts/day.

Misc:
Bring a bucket and a small plastic basin or a second bucket for washing dishes.

Tools:
Bring a hand axe and/or a small folding hand saw for gathering firewood.
Basic hand tools like a hammer or mallet for tent pegs.
Bring some light rope. 20-30'
A small hunting type knife. (Preferably a 4 + inch fixed blade with belt sheath)
A backpack or a carry bag with a shoulder strap is often useful. Even if your vehicle is not far, consider loading a backpack or bag with can goods for transport.

Safety, Emergencies and Medical:
Plan ahead, review the area. Check driving times to hospital, police, etc.

Check with the organizer to see if a safety assessment has been made.

Check for cell phone coverage. If coverage is poor, consider bringing a channel 9 CB.
Hiking in the woods is serious when remote. Being out of eyesight or earshot of the campsite can lead to getting lost and walking for miles. Bring a compass if that's a possibility. FRS radios aren't a bad idea either and neither is a whistle.
Bring a 2 sets of any regular meds anyone may need and keep them separate. Pill bottles and boxes are easy to drop and lose in the brush or water.
A first aid kit and a specific burn kit is wise. Chain pharmacies carry both. Broken bones are unlikely but small cuts and burns are often frequent.

Planning:
Maybe I'm paranoid but I prefer my safety not be left to the integrity of a light cloth tent. Consider posting a sentry type watch when the campsite is sleeping especially where wildlife might be an issue. (I recommend 45-90 minute turns)
Here's the list of bear sightings for CT:
http://www.depdata.ct.gov/wildlife/sighting/bearsight.asp
Always plan to wildlife proof your food and garbage. Don't keep any food or food waste that isn't in zip-sealed plastic. If you eat a candy bar at midnight, zip the wrapper in a bag until you can get rid of it. A raccoon can crew through your tent and your sleeping bag to find a half eaten protein bar in a folded wrapper.
Certain areas are prone to dangerous animals; a rifle or pistol may be wise. Always check with the organizer for their policies and call local law enforcement on regulations for general auto transport and for carry in the woods.
Consider keeping a journal, taking pictures and/or videos. This won't be a regular experience so plan to make memories and have a way to keep them fresh in your mind.
Who knows you may love camping and decide to write a book.

General advice:
It's unlikely but cold snaps happen. Put a canteen of hot water in your sleeping bag to warn it.
A spare cooler is always a good thing to have.
Ketchup, honey-mustard dressing and dry spices are always handy. Salt, baking soda and ground cloves in warm water will take the edge off a toothache.
Tips for small cuts:
http://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Bleeding
Aside for deodorant, I spray on some rubbing alcohol. Most body odor is due to bacterial activity and they just don't live well in alcohol. I always pack medicated gold bond or a no-brand equivalent.

Nuclear, Biological and Chemical considerations:
No nukes; leave the microwave dinners and popcorn at home.
Bio and chemical warfare against mosquitoes is a great idea.
Consider citronella for evenings around the fire.

ohheckyeah

(9,314 posts)
38. If there is any
Fri May 29, 2015, 08:24 AM
May 2015

chance of rain, dig a trench around your tent with the trench emptying a few feet from the tent. We made a habit of that and always stayed dry. We also put a tarp on the ground under the tent. A tarp or two are good to put in the trees as cover for you cooking equipment. You don't want to be cooking in the rain.

Coventina

(26,844 posts)
39. You've already received tons of great advice. So here are my personal picks:
Fri May 29, 2015, 10:06 AM
May 2015

Do not forget anything that is critical to you personally:

1. Medications
2. My night dental guard
3. Anything YOU NEED to be healthy / comfortable, that wouldn't be on a generic list

If you're going in a group, you'll have people with camp stoves for your tea / coffee
but it's always good to have a personal source JUST IN CASE!

I recommend the Jet Boil MiniMo.
It's spendy, but you'll get years of use out of it:
http://www.amazon.com/Jetboil-MiniMo-Personal-Cooking-System/dp/B00KXP7H5I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1432908338&sr=8-1&keywords=jet+boil+minimo

 

Codeine

(25,586 posts)
40. Please understand a four man tent
Fri May 29, 2015, 10:58 AM
May 2015

doesn't even vaguely hold four people in anything like comfort. It assumes four people laying parallel alternating head-to-foot packed together like sardines. Even with two small kids our family of four found it to be a squeeze.

haele

(12,581 posts)
41. A taller four man tent is great for one person -
Fri May 29, 2015, 01:43 PM
May 2015

with a cot (and air mattress), all your non-food gear, and an LED lantern for reading later in the evening if you don't want to go to bed immediately. When I was single and went to SCA events, I'd set it up, put the top of a big 8' market umbrella that I had modified over the top with fabric on the sides, and it looked like a cute little double-walled pavilion - and was very snug and cozy, especially during the March and October camping events up in the hills.

Any more than one person, and it's not very comfortable - unless you put down rubber floor panels (the ones for kids play areas or yoga corners in a house or garage) and an old futon mattress - and then it's pretty decent for a summer tweenager's sleepover in the back yard.

The rubber panels are easy to pack and clean, and they do create a solid, chill-resistant floor that is easy to dry if it rains and you don't want to track mud into your tent.

Also, remember not to use any propane or sterno lighting or heat in any tent. We lost a couple at holiday weekend event to suffocation one February a decade or so ago because they wanted to "warm up" their little four man mushroom tent with their sterno cook-stove, left it going while they headed out for and evening of camp visits, then forgot to shut it off and vent out the tent when they left one of the late-night drinking parties and went to bed.

Haele

a la izquierda

(11,784 posts)
42. Benadryl.
Fri May 29, 2015, 02:19 PM
May 2015

My allergies flare up when camping because of, well, everything in the air that I'm allergic to that I can't get away from by going indoors (I have pollen allergies and hay fever that are exacerbated by camp fire). I feel wretched in the morning if I don't have allergy meds.

I use a jet boil for boiling water. Using a pot takes forever. And I need coffee in the morning.
I don't shower or use port-a-potties, but that's just me. I like primitive camping and I hate port-a-potties. If you go potty outdoors, be mindful to check your bum for ticks afterwards. I learned that the hard way.

Your eyes will take awhile to adjust to the dark if you're staring into the fire, so keep your headlamp handy. I keep mine set on infrared though so I don't blind anyone. And be sure to look into the woods to see what critters are around. You might catch an owl watching you, which is pretty cool (or scary, depending on your outlook).

I don't particularly like sleeping with bugspray on. So baby wipes are a must for me.

Have a blast! I love camping and now I think I'll have to go this fall. I live in WV, so I need to take advantage of the outdoors.

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