Camping & Outdoor Fun

Survival Backpacking And What To Pack

2009-02-16T19:46:00.004-06:00

Packing a backpack seems like a simple task, but are you really packing correctly and including the things that you should? Without being over dramatic, if you're a serious hiker and get far away from help, preperation could mean everything!

If you plan to take a backpacking trip there are certain things to think about like the length of your trip, the weather etc. The information about your trip will then help you know what you need and how much you need to pack. Aside from understanding what you need, how much you need and how to pack everything into your backpack. Learning and understanding what items are of the up most importance could in fact save your life if you find yourself in a sticky situation.

Backpacker's Basic's

Backpack Tent & Stakes Sleeping Bag Sleeping Pad Day Pack Sunscreen Flashlight/Headlamp and Extra Batteries

Backpacker's Essentials

Full 1 Qt. Water Bottle Matches or Lighter Compass and Map Basic First Aid Kit
Whistle with neck cord 50 Ft. Nylon Cord Pocket Knife Emergency Blanket Energy Bar Sunglasses Ski Accessories Waxes/skins Scraper Cork Skis Poles Boots Spare parts Tools Clothing Boots, well sealed Camp shoes and sandals Liner Socks Hiking Socks T-Shirt Shorts Warm Shirt Pants Extra Underwear Thermal Underwear Warm Jacket/Fleece Rain Gear Gloves Fleece/Wool Hat with brim Warm Hat Clothes for drive home

Group Equipment

Camping Stove Windscreen Small Lantern Fuel and Funnel Matches or Lighter Water Filter/Chemical Insect Repellent Toilet Paper and Towel Trash Bag Repair Kit Large First Aid Kit Water Storage Container Bear Canister Biodegradable Dish Soap Scrub Pad Dish Towel Large Utensils Pots and Fry Pan Small Cutting Board Pot Grip Drink Mixes Food Spices Snacks GPS 2-Way Radios

Winter Camp Equipment

Avalanche probes, beacons Boot protection/sealant Snow Shovel Extra Dark Sunglasses/keeper Small piece of sleeping pad (ensolite) for stove Extra pot for melting snow Snow stakes Snow Shoes Crampons Ice Axe How to PackStart with your sleeping bag in the bottom for a solid foundation. Put the heaviest items like your clothing, food, and cooking gear in the main compartment, keeping the weight close to your back, nearest your center of gravity. For men, this is higher, and for women it tends to be lower, towards the small of the back. Top off your pack with lighter items like your tent, maps or guides and anything you may need quickly at any particular moment like cameras, or chap stick etc. If you are unsure if everything is packed correctly try it on and walk a few steps around and see how it feels. Remember that the heaviest part of your pack should be towards the center or small of your back.You particular needs may require more or less equipment, but you are better off having something it turned out you did not need, than need it and not have it!

I have lots of packs of all types and sizes along with most everything else you could need for camping and outdoor fun. Check it out here:http://www.alamocampingoutdoors.com/ Happy Camping!

Camping Hydration Packs

2009-02-15T12:30:00.007-06:00

Hydration systems are devices designed with the single purpose of getting necessary liquids to the user as quick and as convenient as possible. Initially, hydration systems were designed for bikers because of limited hand availability. These devices have been popularized in many other outdoor activities and are a necessity for many military operations. Having a hydration system is much more effective and convenient than carrying around water bottles. Having a hydration system on or in your pack keeps you more hydrated because by the time you go for a drink from a water bottle you are already showing signs of dehydration. Also, when empty, hydration systems take up little space and are very lightweight.
How Hydration Systems Work

Hydration systems consist of 3 main parts; the packaging, a polyurethane reservoir also known as the "bladder", and the hose. The Bladder is usually an elongated, flexible, and removable water container that goes inside whatever pack fits your needs. These reservoirs range in size from 64 ounces (2 quarts) to 128 ounces (1 gallon). The hose is attached to the bladder and has some sort of bite valve at the end that allows the water to flow out by biting down on it. With the end of the tube just inches from your mouth the need for a water break becomes non-existent.

Choosing the right hydration system is important. There are many different designs, styles, and sizes. You must also keep in mind the factors that contribute to its ease of use because nowadays hydration packs can be sport/activity specific. Such factors include how easy it is to clean or refill, and how you intend to carry and store It.

Cleanliness is one of the most important factors when it comes to any sort of reusable water device. When water sits idle for an extended period of time or the container is not cleaned properly after use it is more susceptible to bacteria which can increase the chances that the user gets sick. Most bladders are removable which makes them easier to clean and also allows for them to be used in almost any backpack. The size of the access hole for filling the container also affects how easy it is to clean the bladder. An opening roughly large enough for the users hand to fit inside is ideal for cleaning. Some manufacturers offer bladders that are dishwasher-safe and or easily replaceable after use. Many prefer a bladder that is transparent making it easier to check the cleanliness of the bladder. Some companies also make cleaning tablets that clean out water reservoirs and water bottles.

Be Practical, size does matter understanding what activities you will be using the hydration system for is very important. For instance, a bicyclist may prefer a smaller lightweight hydration pack for less wind resistance. For long distance trips with no other water source you might consider a larger bladder. The mountain bikers pack will be slightly different from the road bikers hydration pack, as well as those used for winter sports and running.

Small sized packs are very important if weight is an issue. For running and biking a larger pack could be a nuisance. When all you need is water, it is a good idea to keep the pack small and to the point. Smaller bladders can be a good idea especially if you have a water filter and local water supply.

Medium sized hydration systems are very useful for short day hikes and other activities that can be achieved in short periods of time. Another good aspect of medium sized packs is they can store other necessities such as food/snacks and emergency equipment.

Large Packs are typically designed for backpacking or trekking for multiple days. These packs are hydration system compatible but some do not come with the bladder and hose.

Water Filter Attachments. Some hydration systems have quick attachments for water filtration devices. These attachments make refilling anywhere an easy task. In some cases if you intend to carry your reservoir on the inside of the pack it can be very difficult to take off the pack, dig into the pouch, retrieve the reservoir, and fill it with water. Not only do you have to hold the bladder in a position that it will not collapse and spill but you need two hands typically to pump the water. With a special attachment that extends outside of the pack to the filter the task of refilling the hydration system mid-hike has become extremely simplified. This device is also a great idea because it allows for the hydration pack to remain inside of the pack where insulation is much better.

Another feature that many hydration systems manufacturers stress is insulation. Many hydration packs are insulated and typically the bigger the pack the more insulated the hydration system can be. Some manufacturers have a special insulation liner that goes directly around the bladder so that it can be attached to the outside of a backpack for easy access and refilling. Hoses can also be insulated too and some hydration systems come with insulated hoses or they can be purchased separately. This is important because after each drink, water will remain in the hose. Since the hose is a much smaller area and is more exposed to the outside it will change towards the ambient temperature at a much faster rate. In other words, in extremely cold weather the insulation will protect the water from freezing and help keep the water from getting warm in the hot sun. Ice can typically also be put inside the bladder in order to keep the water colder for a longer period of time.

It used to be that special forces and or military were basically the only ones lucky enough to have equipment such as this. A person these day's if properly equipped and trained, can live fairly comfortably in some of the most in hospitable places on Earth! So its easy to imagine the awesome adventures and wild places you could go to with the equipment we carry for the public.
See it all here: http://www.alamocampingoutdoors.com/

How To Choose The Right Camping Stove

2009-02-14T21:33:00.003-06:00

The right Camp Stove for the right Job!
Camping stoves are split into two main categories - car camping and those used in backpacking excursions. When it comes to regular car camping in campgrounds, a heavier duty stove is ok since you won't have to carry in on a trail while backpacking. Two-burner propane camping stoves are the preferred choice over the older white gas camp stoves. The pressurized butane and propane camping stoves are rated the easiest to use which is what we are looking for in convenience. For the hardier backpackers among us, a lightweight, single burner stove is what ranks as the #1 priority. Backpackers need stoves that work in cold weather, windy areas, and at high altitudes. Stove manufacturers measure their performance in terms of "boiling time". The boil time is usually done on 1 quart of water using the "recommended" fuel for that stove. They range from 2 1/2 minutes to 10 minutes (at sea level). Look for a mid-range stove with 3 to 5 minute boil times. The higher up in altitude you go, the longer it takes to boil water so if you plan on backpacking high up in the mountains, look for a stove that is rated favorable for those conditions. Definitly go here and see exactly what you need for any condition.
http://www.alamocampingoutdoors.com

Choosing The Right Tent

2009-02-14T20:28:00.007-06:00

You know there are a lot of things a person needs to know to become a pro camper. By that I mean you are ready to head out to the wilderness and your not worried you cant handle it.

Just knowing how and where to pitch a tent properly, is vital to be able to deal with what ever nature throws at you.

A rocky surface is obviously no good, and if it rains you need to know your not going to be waking up with 6 inches of water over you because you were in a low area near a creek or stream.

But were going to talk about the different types of tents in general, and how there made. You need to know what sort of camping and outdoor needs you have in general, and then choose the right tent for the job. Doing this will save you money, and insure that when you go camping your going to have the right tent and be protected and comfortable to the max!

Here are some things to know:

There are a lot of different types of tents out there, and buying a tent can be a complex decision for any camper to make but it's impariative to pick the right one. If you buy a tent with all of the features available, the tent may be comfortable but could also be large and heavy-which is not necessarily the best choice for backpackers. If you buy a lighter tent, there may be less features and purhaps not a lot of protection from natures natural elements; when a tent is used under the wrong conditions it could take the fun out of any camping trip. The key is to find the right balance for your specific needs and you will have a tent that you can enjoy for years to come.

Parts of a Tent:

Body

The body is the main bulk of the tent once it is deployed. Tent poles provide a frame which holds up the walls and forms the body.

Rain fly

A rain fly is a waterproof covering that goes on the outside of the tent. A good rain fly extends to the bottom of the tent in order to protect the entire tent from rain and water damage. Some even extend out from the tent to channel the water away from the tent body. A good rain fly can mean the difference between a wet and a dry experience.

Vestibule

A vestibule on a tent is very similar to a covered porch. This space acts as a buffer between the tent entrance and the snow and mud, allowing a person to remove soiled clothing without bringing the mess inside the tent. Vestibules also provide extra storage space and protection from the elements.

Footprint

A footprint is an extra piece of material that fits below the tent and protects its bottom from wear and tear. Many manufacturers make footprints that are fitted to a particular tent, but it is easy to make your own with plastic sheeting (usually available by the roll). Another option is to use a standard tarp; it will not look as professional as the first two options, but it will work just as well in dry conditions. Replacing a worn out footprint is much more cost-effective than replacing the entire tent.
Note - In wet conditions, using a tarp or any footprint that extends out from the tent will enable the rain coming off of the roof to form puddles on the footprint's surface. Depending on the slope of the ground, these puddles can travel under the tent, allowing water to get inside.

Stakes

Tent stakes are placed in various loops or holes around the tent and pounded into the ground. This allows for the tent to remain taut and anchored to the ground.

Guy lines

Guy lines are tension cords that attach to the ground and keep the tent anchored in high winds. Some tent constructions require guy lines to keep the tent's shape.

Vents

Ventilation is a camping necessity. Most tents have mesh openings that allow the air to flow in and out of the tent while protecting against bugs and dust kicked up by the wind. This circulates the air and prevents condensation buildup inside the tent. Most mesh vents can be closed to help keep out wind and keep in heat.

Doors

Tents can have either a zippered door, or just a flap. While a flap is a functional door, it does not provide as many benefits as a zippered door. A zippered door will keep out rain, snow, wind, and insects as well as control the flow of air. When buying a tent, consider the number of doors you will need. If you need to save space and weight, then one door might be all you need. If you plan on having a large number of people staying in the tent, then two or three doors might be a better option.

Poles

There are two basic types of tent poles: rigid and collapsible. Rigid poles are typically stiff, tubular poles that slot one-into-another to form a frame over which the tent wall hangs. Collapsible tent poles are typically lightweight, flexible, and strong. Tent poles come in a number of different materials including: fiberglass, aluminum, aluminum alloys, and carbon fiber. Collapsible poles are generally tube shaped and can break down into small, 1-2 foot, sections. An elastic shock cord runs down the middle of the tubes in order to connect all of the pieces.
Collapsible Tent Pole Materials:
Fiberglass Solid fiberglass poles can be prone to breakage and deterioration and they are frequently found in cheaper tents. Fiberglass loses its flexibility in cold weather and can break with little applied pressure. The benefit of using fiberglass is that it is incredibly light-though they should not be used for anything more than casual camping.
Fiberglass tubes Fiberglass tubes are collapsible fiberglass poles that are often reinforced with aluminum ends. They are held together with an elastic cord that helps to improve flexibility in colder weather. More reliable than solid fiberglass poles, fiberglass tubes are a popular, cost-effective style of tent pole.
Aluminum Tent poles made of aluminum are stronger, more durable, and generally more reliable than fiberglass poles. Aluminum poles are just as light as fiberglass but they don't lose their flexibility in cold. Aluminum poles are more expensive than fiberglass, but they are a sound investment for anyone that plans to do extensive camping.
Aluminum alloy Different metals can be added to aluminum in order to produce a stronger and lighter pole. Aluminum alloy poles are even more costly than standard aluminum poles but they are worth the cost if added strength, durability and light weight is desired.
Carbon FiberCarbon fiber poles are very strong and very durable, and they are often half the weight of aluminum poles. Carbon fiber poles are the best option for the serious camper, though they can sometimes be the most expensive.

Tent Types:

Single Wall Tents vs. Double Wall Tents

Double Wall Tents

A double wall tent is essentially a tent within a tent. There are two layers called the tent body and the tent fly. The tent body is usually made of nylon and mesh and is supported by poles that attach to the body using external sleeves or clips. The tent fly (or rain fly) is then attached to the poles and staked to the ground. Double wall tents provide excellent ventilation because the tent body contains a lot of mesh.
Compare to single wall tents:
Pros: Warmer Cheaper More durable Cons: Harder to set up Heavier Bulkier.

Single Wall Tents

A single wall tent consists of just a single layer of material between you and the elements. The material needs to be impermeable enough to keep rain from coming in while remaining breathable enough to let moisture out. Single wall tents are typically very light.
Compare to double wall tents:
Pros Lighter Less Bulky Easier to set up Cons More expensive (sometimes twice the price of their double wall counterparts) Colder Less Durable Seasonal Tents

Summer Tents

Summer tents often include a lot of mesh in the construction of the body. The rain fly on a summer tent is not as long as those on multi-season tents; this allows the tent to have more ventilation during the hot summer months. Summer tents usually use a two-pole construction in order to save weight.

Three Season Tents

Three season tents are designed to be very versatile. These tents usually include a full rain fly that can be removed in order to improve ventilation. Three-season tents typically use a three-pole construction because it provides extra durability during heavy winds. These tents are very popular due to their versatility; however, they are not designed for cold winter weather.

Four Season or All Season Tents

Four season tents are basically three season tents that are better equipped for winter use. They are usually constructed with four poles for excellent durability under heavy winds and snows. Four season tents are the most versatile tents available, but they are also costlier than three season tents-a fact which has limited their popularity.

Tent Shapes

Rigid Frame Tents

A rigid frame tent utilizes a sturdy frame made up of stiff, tubular poles that slot one-into-another to form a frame over which the tent material can hang. Guy lines typically hold the tent in place and keep it from blowing down rather than holding the tent up. Frame tents are usually large and roomy, perfect for lots of gear or people. This type of tent is used more for casual, family camping because they are heavier and bulkier than other types of tents.

A-Frame Tents

A-frame tents use two triangular shaped frame sections that are connected by a pole that runs down the center, or ridge, of the tent. This forms an elongated, triangle shaped tent that is fairly simple in construction. A-frame tents are becoming increasingly rare among hikers and campers due to the fact that dome tents are roomier than a-frame tents with comparable floor sizes.

Dome Tents

Dome tents are popular for hikers and campers alike. Like most tents, dome tents consist of a tent pole frame and a lightweight tent body. These tent poles are evenly spaced and curved in order to form the dome shape. Dome tents usually use between two and four poles as the frame. Because they are overlapping and evenly spaced, the tent poles change the geometry of the floor depending on the amount of poles used (two poles would create a square floor, three poles would make the floor hexagonal, and four poles would mean an octagonal floor). Using three or four poles increases the amount of usable space inside the tent, but it also makes the setup a little more complicated. Dome tents are lightweight and sturdy, and they provide a large amount of internal space while retaining structural integrity under inclement weather.

Hoop Tents

Tunnel, or hoop tents, use two to three hoops arranged in sequence as the frame. This creates a tunnel on which the tent body can hang. Hoop tents are popular among hikers due to their simple construction, large proportion of useable space inside and durability under high winds. The hoop construction allows the weight to be distributed among all of the hoops evenly, thus creating a very strong and stable structure.
While these are the basic styles of tents available today, it is by no means a complete list. There are many variations and combinations of these styles available as well. It is important to select the tent that will be most beneficial to you.

Capacity and Size

It is always a good idea to buy a tent with a capacity greater than your anticipated need. If there will be two people using a tent, it is a good idea to buy a tent built for three or four people. This is important because even though you can generally fit two people in a two person tent, the size of the people and sleeping bags need to be considered. Other things might affect your decision when it comes to capacity and size including: the amount of gear you plan on having inside the tent, the amount of roll or tossing and turning space desired, the amount of vertical space required, and whether or not there will be pets inside the tent. It is always better to have too much space rather than not enough.

Color

The choice of tent color might seem insignificant, but it can be an important choice. More than just a cosmetic decision, tent color can dictate the temperature of the tent. A tent that is brightly colored will reflect more sunlight and create a cooler environment inside. A tent that is darker colored will absorb more sunlight during the day and keep the tent warmer. Also, bright colors will enable rescue workers to easily spot a tent in dense forests or snow should the need arise.
Quick List of Things to Look For

A full rain fly : The best camping trips can be spoiled by rain.

Durable material : You want a tent that can stand up to the rigors of camping.

Waterproofness : It is a good idea to water test your tent before a trip. Locate any leaks and seal them before they become a problem.

Pockets, hooks, and gear space: Places to store gear and hang lights can make a substantial difference in the level of comfort. During the summer, you will want lots of ventilation—extra mesh, windows, and doors will enable the tent to breathe during the hot summer season During rainy or snowy weather, select a tent that is built to withstand high winds and heavy rains—bad weather and snow accumulation can collapse a tent. A vestibule, especially if camping in rainy or snowy weather—vestibules provide an enclosed space to change clothes and store gear separate from the tent.
I hope you found this info usefull, and will be able to make the right decision when its time to buy that perfect tent for the perfect camping and outdoor adventure. And for a good place to buy the tent you need and everything else for camping and outdoors fun, please go here:

http://www.alamocampingoutdoors.com/ More to come.

Quick Trip To Big Bend National Park

2008-09-16T13:29:00.008-05:00

Hello every one, thanks for stopping by. It's soon to be fall, and down in San Antonio it's cooling off now just a bit. Soon it will be just right weather wise to head out to someplace in East Texas and do some fishing, and camp out a few days.

I dont have the time normally to go far out of state. In any case Texas is huge, and we have the open prarie in West Texas which is nice in its own way as long as your not below interstate 10. We have the Gulf Of Mexico to the South, which is about like the East and West Coast only not as nice. And we have North and East Texas which is for me the most beautiful part of the state with pine trees, lakes, rivers, and no end to camping and outdoors fun!

I went to Big Bend National Park last year because lots of people had told me how great it was. It was August, and hot as hell but I knew it would be. I drove my Jeep Wrangler Sahara out there, and had forgot how desolate and empty it is in parts of West Texas.

The drive from San Antonio, to Big Bend is boring beyond words. The drive to Big Bend from anywhere would be boring! Once you get into the lower part of West Texas, your in some ugly country as far as I am concerned. Nothing to stop the wind but barbed wire fences clear to South America it looks like to the South.

But eventually, you begin to see mountains, or at least hills, and you finally arrive at Big Bend National Park with out much fanfare. Big Bend is deep canyons, and mountains in the middle of nothing!

At first, I was sure I should turn around and leave there about a half mile into the park, but since it was a long, hot, drive out there I was determined to see what I had been missing, or not missing!

Its a good thing I didn't bring Archie my little dog, because dogs are not allowed even in the remote dry nothingness far from what little there is of anything you could call civilization. Unless there on a leash, and even then your expected to pick up any poop the dog leaves behind!

Now I can see this in a camp area where there are others around you, but I cant see how my little Boston Terrier's poop is hurting the ecology in some way a deer or a coyote's does not!
I mean if your in Death Valley, and your mule or even you has to go, are you going to pack it up and bring it along with you? Not me buddy!

I'm no wimp when it comes to camping, I have camped in some of the most beautiful places, and the most horrid places you can imagine. Many times, in fact most times, camped alone and as far away from people or places as I could get.

I know how to survive in the desert, I grew up in Tucson Arizona, and hunted wild hogs while riding a dirt bike when I was 10 years old.

I'm 54 now.

I planned a rough camp when I came out here, but I do prefer lakes, and trees, to dry gulches, and sage brush. I also like to have some diversions to fill in the time, like target practice with my pellet gun or my bow. I dont kill for sport, to me there are two reasons to kill an animal.
For food, or to keep from being food! The bow is quiet, and so is the air rifle so practice does not scare the critters or bother any one if they were near.

If I am near a lake and not near fishermen, I bring along one of my R/C "radio controlled" boat's to run. I know I may seem like an overgrown kid........I am. I have severall friends that are too, and we are all glad about it.

Well there was little to shoot at regardless, target or animal. I brought along a powerfull spotting scope, and that was awesome! I spent half an afternoon just looking as far off in the distance as I could, listening to the wind and no other sound. That night looking at the stars and hearing the coyotes call was very nice indeed.

But scorpions were all about and I HATE SCORPIONS! Tarantulas came up to my camp, "no camp fires allowed" so I was busy looking around by flashlight, and camp lantern for these varmits till bed time. I kept the tent closed at all times while in or out of it, but it took me a good while to convince my self that the interior of my little tent was scorpion free!

There was enough moon light to see through the tent, the tarantulas on the sides, just hanging around. By morning they were gone, and it gets hot fast.

Thats the beauty of Big bend. Your as isolated as a cowboy or indian was 150 years ago out there, and the land is exactly the same. Its a great place to go and get your mind right! Spend a couple day's in the rough, alone. You will come out a different person, and one you'll like!

Having said all that. I still would much rather camp in East Texas, or any place where there are real green trees.

Water

Grass

And a place within 1000.000 acres for my dog to poop!

If you get a chance, stop by my web site, and see just how into camping and outdoor's fun I am.

I have the stuff you need to enjoy the wild world in comfort, and stay intertained the whole time... http://www.alamocampingoutdoors.com/

In any case, thanks very much for reading this, I intend to post some of my trips in the future here too.

Take care you all...........Gary