We’ve found that since we’ve upgraded our camping gear, the entire family—kids included—is more excited to set off on the next adventure. So, to help enhance your camping experience, here is our latest camp setup that’s been tried and tested by yours truly. 

Big Agnes Bunk House Tent

One of the first camping gear upgrades we made was our tent. And as a tent is one of the most crucial elements of your camping gear, we made sure to focus on size and quality to ensure we always had a comfortable place to sleep. 

We recently invested in a new six-man tent, the Bunk House, from Big Agnes. And although we’re only a family of four, Nick and I have always felt that getting a tent that’s two people bigger than what we need provides us with extra space for gear and a play area for the kids.  

Here are some of the things we love about the Big Agnes Bunk House. 

Tent Height

One of the coolest things about the Big Agnes Bunk House is its height. This thing is absolutely massive! 

Now, I’m pretty short. But we had a friend of ours, who is over six feet tall, stay over because we had the extra space. And he found that he was able to stand up fully and be comfortable in doing so, which is something that isn’t very common in tents. 

Airflow

Another thing we absolutely love about the Bunk House is how airy it feels. There are openings on both sides of the tent to encourage airflow. So, we typically tend to open up both sides of the tent once we’ve set up camp to allow the fresh air in. 

Pockets

Pockets are something you don’t think about when going camping. But let me tell you, the Bunk House’s 20 mesh panel pockets really come in handy. If you need a spot for your toothbrushes or your socks, for example, then the panels offer you a storage solution and allow you to keep your stuff semi-organized.

For me, I appreciate having the extra mesh panels. They help me know where everything is should I need it—especially in the middle of the night. 

Other Design Features

One of the other features that I really like is the tent’s hanging loops. What we like to do is string our lights from the two little loops at the top of the tent. But we also like to use them for hanging things like bathing suits to dry. 

As there are loops in all four corners and three more on top of those, you can hook plenty of things up with the help of a carabiner.

Two Panels

A major selling point of the Bunk House is the fact that it is a two-paneled tent that consists of an outside tarp and a mesh inside panel. Nick and I have used both one and two-shell tents over the years. And overall, I’m just not a big fan of one panels. 

One panel tents often leave a dewy residue in the mornings. However, we’ve found that two-panel tents with that extra mesh liner on the inside keep you separate from the waterproof liner and the subsequent dew. 

Having the extra panel also means that when it is really hot out, we can remove the outer panel during the day to encourage airflow before placing it back over the top to prevent dew and to shelter us from any predicted rain. 

Storage

An additional thing I love about the Bunk House is its front storage area. The front panel of the tent extends out further than the opening to provide you with a sheltered area to store extra gear. 

In our case, it’s always my son's shoes or clothing that is wet. My son refuses to wear socks with his shoes, so his shoes absolutely reek. Obviously, I don’t want them with us in the main sleeping area of the tent. But he also doesn’t want them outside getting wet. 

Front storage areas mean we can keep our gear protected from the elements while also not having them cluttering our sleeping space.

Sustainability

Sustainability is something we always think about when purchasing camping gear upgrades—or any gear upgrades, for that matter. Many tents are made overseas. However, some companies are a lot better when it comes to sustainability practices. 

I am a firm advocate for trying to be as sustainable as possible. And that's one of the reasons that we invested in the Bunk House by Big Agnes. So I highly recommend looking for a tent that falls in line with your core values. 

A lot of the work Big Agnes is doing is in line with my specific sustainability values. And I know that as a company they’re making conscious efforts to grow and improve their environmentalism. 

Durability

A factor that ties into sustainability is durability. And we always like to make sure that we’re investing in products that are going to last. A tent, for example, is not a purchase you’re making every year. You’re going to hold onto your tent for a long period of time. 

For this reason, investing in a high-quality tent that may be a little more expensive than others on the market will mean that you’re only making that purchase once, and you aren’t contributing to any wastage. 

With that being said, I do understand that investing in an expensive, high-quality tent isn’t possible for everyone. So, if purchasing a cheap tent is the only way you can get out and enjoy the outdoors, then that's great, you do what you need to do. But if you can save a little more money and purchase a sustainable and durable tent, then it will definitely change the game for your camping experience.  

Customer Service and Warranty

A further benefit of purchasing a Big Agnes tent is the company's customer service and warranty teams. We’ve found that Big Agnes has a really good policy in terms of warranty. So if there is anything wrong with your tent, they’re going to help you fix it.

Not all companies are like that, however. So it’s definitely something to think about when making your decision. 

Weight

The cool thing about the Bunk House is it only weighs 19 pounds and packs down into a backpack with straps. In past camping trips, my son has even managed to throw the tent on his back and carry it down to the campsite for us. So, although it is a pretty big tent, it is extremely portable—even a ten-year-old can carry it!

Kids Sleeping Bags by Big Agnes

Another of the camping gear upgrades we made this year was our kid’s sleeping bags. Both of our kids got new sleeping bags from Big Agnes. And what’s cool is that they make them in different lengths and sizes. 

Both Parker and Tucker have different sleeping bags—Tucker uses the Torchlight Youth and Parker the Wolverine. But both bags go down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, so they are extremely warm. 

It’s important to remember that the length and coziness of the bags also impact how well your kids will sleep. So, the different lengths and sizes of Big Agnes’ bags really make a huge difference. 

Air Mattress Pocket

Something I found really cool about Big Agnes’ sleeping bags is that they have a pocket on the back. And you’re probably wondering what that pocket is for, and well, it’s for an air mattress.

Big Agnes’ have what they call the Big Agnes divider, which slides right into the back of their sleeping bags. Before purchasing bags from Big Agnes, I had never seen this feature before. So this was a completely new thing to me. But we’ve found that the back pocket has been an absolute game-changer.

Before, our kids were always sliding around, and we’d wake up, and they’d be shoved down in the corner of the tent. But now, their bags with their attached air mattresses keep them in place. 

I’ll even admit that we loved the idea of the attached mattress so much that Nick and I actually invested in a two-person sleeping bag and a two-person mattress, so we also aren’t slipping around. 

Size Adjusters

Some of Big Agnes’ sleeping bags also have hooks. And at first, I was wondering what the hooks were for. However, I realized that the hooks allow you to roll up the sleeping bag and adjust it to your kid’s height. 

Not only does this mean your kid’s sleeping bag can grow with them. But it also helps with warmth and ensures they arent sliding down into the bag. 

King Soloman Sleeping Bag by Big Agnes

The two-person sleeping bag that I mentioned before is the King Soloman by Big Agnes. And it's another of the camping gear upgrades we made this year—I couldn’t recommend it more.

The King Soloman, like Big Agnes’ kids’ sleeping bags, also has a pocket on the back to slide in an air mattress. So this means that Nick and I stay put.

Warmth

The King Soloman sleeping bag goes down to 35 degrees Fahrenheit. However, there is also a 20-degree bag for those who camp in colder temperatures. For me personally, I don’t need a warmer sleeping bag because if it’s that cold, then I’m not going camping. So we found that the 35-degree bag kept us warm enough even when camping in the mountains. 

Fastenings

Big Agnes’ has included little snaps down the side of the bag so you can keep your sleeping bag shut. I’m pretty anal when it comes to my children not being in my sleeping bag because of their sandy, dirty feet. So, I appreciate the little toggles that allow me to shut the sleeping bag and keep them out. 

Weight and Size

Now, you’re probably thinking that a two-person sleeping bag is going to take up a lot of room. But because the King Soloman is a 35-degree bag, it’s actually pretty light and packs down really small. I’d say that it compacts down to a pretty normal sleeping bag size. 

Air Mattress Inflation Sack

Many air mattresses now come with inflation sacks. And although I used to take a lot of pride in my ability to blow up air mattresses, I must say that the inflation sack makes the process a whole lot easier. 

The inflation sacks, if you didn’t already know, are wide open on one side and feature a valve on the other side. And all you have to do is attach the valve to the air mattress, allow the air to come into the bag through the wide opening, and simply roll the bag down, pushing the air into the mattress. 

These inflation bags save you a lot of time and energy. And once you figure out how to use them, you’ll have your mattresses blown up within minutes. 

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The post Camping Gear Upgrades: Our Latest Camp Set-Up appeared first on Hazeadventure.

What is the best bug defence when camping?

Your first and best line of defence against bugs in the backcountry is simply covering up from head to toe. Depending on the severity of the region and season, you might want to deploy a bug net. You also should have on long sleeves and pants (possibly treated with permethrin for even more shielding).

Add gloves, and socks that are long enough to protect that ankle area that sometimes gets exposed. When you're selecting your outfit, avoid tight fitting layers. Yoga pants, for example, can be easily pierced by insidious, needle-nosed mosquitos. 

Chemical Repellents are Key How to Keep Bugs Away When Camping

Next up, deploy some proven chemical repellents. DEET is a polarizing word, but one thing is for sure, it is the gold standard bug dope – especially mosquitos, but it also protects against ticks, flies, midges, and more.

Since nefarious insects have no qualms about biting the face, it may be worth applying DEET there as well. Just make sure not to spray it on willy-nilly. Rather, squirt a small amount into your hands, and then rub it on your cheeks, neck, nose, and forehead, while being careful to avoid your eyes, nostrils, and mouth. 

Is 30% DEET effective?

Yes! 30% is actually the maximum effectiveness. A higher percentage doesn't increase the potency, but rather the duration of protection. So 30% and, say 100%, will keep the bugs at bay in exactly the same way, just not all day – you'll have to reapply more often with the lower concentration blend. 

What are the disadvantages of DEET?

Even though DEET is one of the best defenders against bugs, it feels kind of gross on your skin (like covering yourself in olive oil), and it can corrode your fancy backpacking/camping gear and clothes over time. 

What repels insects naturally?

In areas where insects are floating about, but not swarming uncontrollably, I've found lemon eucalyptus oil to be an adequate, and pleasant-smelling measure. The nearly odorless and colorless picaridin is another one I've had success with. And finally, permethrin is a treatment that is meant for your gear and clothing (maybe even your tent), rather than your skin.

Bug Repellant Clothing?

Some clothing comes pre-treated with permethrin, such as the undergarment brand ExOfficio, so definitely consider that approach before trekking deep into bug country. Even though all three of these are gentler alternatives to DEET, I still recommend washing your soiled camp clothes separately from the rest of your laundry hamper that awaits you back home. Otherwise, these oils and compounds tend to cross pollinate. 

In addition to treatments, there are also a couple instruments worth deploying on your adventures. I wouldn't necessarily suggest hiking with citronella candles, but if you're just hanging around the backyard or doing some frontcountry camping, then put a few of those guys in the immediate vicinity, as they usually do a reasonable job.

Another interesting option is the Thermacell – popular amongst hunters and reportedly helpful for when you aren't moving around very much. A small butane canister vaporizes an allethrin pad, which is a synthetic form of a natural repellent found in chrysanthemum plants.

I haven't used it myself, but my trustee cameraman had success with it in the bug-heavy prairies of Saskatchewan, Canada. The caveat here is that it's not supposed to be used around food, pets, or small children. It passes the general sniff test for the E.P.A., but given the disqualifiers, I have a feeling the Thermacell might be best deployed in moderation. 

What kind of headlight doesn't attract bugs?

The red light setting is the way to go to avoid beckoning bugs. We've all seen insects swarm the lights on a backyard porch or country road. They love it…to death. But the red light spectrum does not hit their radar. And the added bonus is that you and your peers will not have your night vision disrupted. You can even stargaze with the red light on. 

How do you make a tent mosquito proof? 

One option is to spray your tent with permethrin – a natural(ish) repellant that won't corrode the fabric. Don't do this with DEET, since we've already talked about how that can dissolve your gear pretty quickly. The other thing that's within your locust, excuse me, I mean locus of control, is to keep your tent door closed at all times. Sometimes we get a little too casual around camp.

We dilly-dally getting in and out of the shelter, we might leave it unzipped out of courtesy for our tentmate in tow, or think that it's fine to leave the door flapping about while we retrieve something nearby. But mosquitos and other bugs get curious, and once they're in, they're not going anywhere.

Even one rogue mossie can wreak havoc throughout the night. Speaking of which, be especially mindful in the dark, and don't linger with that attractive white light headlamp setting as you fiddle with the zipper. 

If you do find yourself trapped with some hungry mosquitos, I've come up with a little hack/game to get them out. Pack a bit of duct tape, and use it to snatch up those tiny bloodsuckers. It's much cleaner than smacking them with your bare hands, and it's honestly quite fun to see how many you can get.

So don't let the bugs repel you away from the great outdoors. You, brave adventurer, can do the repelling! Just suit up, spray down, and follow a few best-practices around camp, and you'll be able to go anywhere without trepidation. It's time for me to buzz off, but if you're itching for more hiking and camping tips, head on over to BackpackingTV. 

Bug Stuff:

• Murphy's Naturals: https://www.murphysnaturals.com/
• Ben's Deet Insect Repellent: https://bit.ly/3QXpdsu
• Thermacell: https://bit.ly/3dsNV6k
• Bug Net: https://bit.ly/3dmvOit

The post How to Keep Bugs Away When Camping appeared first on Hazeadventure.

And maybe this experience is burned in your mind, forever associated with camping. Why would you ever want to do that again? I've got good news for you. It doesn't have to be that way.

You can actually have a GREAT night's sleep when camping. Here’s how:

Proper Gear

Pairing a suitable sleeping bag with a quality sleeping mattress/pad is the golden combination and it will go a long way to having an enjoyable nights sleep. Most people’s sleep problems while camping stem from a poor quality sleeping pad. It’s the gear item people go cheap on most frequently, and it’s the biggest mistake.

A quality sleeping pad or mattress will keep you warmer and better insulated from the ground. Plus, the softer surface is much more comfortable than a cheap foam pad. Quality sleeping pads/mattresses can be purchased for relatively cheap (consider the cost of one night at a hotel vs. every future night of quality sleep while camping). Buy a good pad and you'll be happy forever!

Choose The Right Sleep Site

-Look for site that is either flat, or with a gentle slope (just a few degrees of slope), and position your tent with your head uphill. The gentle slope will move water away from you in case of rain. Plus, I find it to be slightly more comfortable than being perfectly flat. Just don't sleep with your head downhill! That's a no-no and you will be very uncomfortable.

Bonus: Look for a site with organic material, such as pine duff (what you find on the ground around pine trees), or grass. Not only is this surface much softer than bare rock or hard dirt, it will help insulate you from the ground and keep you warmer throughout the night.

Loose Fitting Baselayer and Clean Cozy Socks

I like to have a pair of wool socks that are only used for sleepy time. Dirty, sweaty socks are not ideal as you will not feel as comfortable and will likely lead to the killer of quality sleep; cold feet. Sleep in loose fitting clothing. In cold weather, I will sleep in long underwear and a long sleeve shirt.

Keep Your Feet Warm at all Costs!

Cold feet will guarantee you an uncomfortable, sleepless night. Avoid this by making sure your feet stay on your pad throughout the night. Don't let your toes hang off your pad and touch the ground! The ground will sap your warmth and turn your toes into icicles. On really cold nights, I like to stuff a jacket in the footbox of my sleeping bag. This decreases the amount of air my feet have to warm up, and adds extra insulation between my feet and the ground. Add a Nalgene bottle full of hot water to your sleeping bag and you've got major cozy time ahead of you.

Don't go to Bed Cold

Sleeping bags don't generate warmth. They only help preserve the warmth your body creates. So if you start cold, you're more likely to stay cold. Do some light exercises before hopping into your bag. Do a few jumping jacks, have a dance competition, or do some planks in your bag. Just don't exert yourself to the point of sweating!

Eat Food and Drink Water

Nutrition and hydration play a major role in keeping your body warm throughout the night. Your body burns calories to keep you warm. Your body requires caloric energy. If you barely eat anything, you will be more likely to be cold than after you eat a large meal. Eat well -> sleep well. And don't forget to drink water either. People often fear a nighttime bathroom run, and therefore dehydrate themselves. Don't do this! A well hydrated body will be warmer and happier!

Get Up and Pee (for the love of everything holy)

We've all been there. Struggling to sleep while you desperately have to pee. But you don't want to get out of your nice warm sleeping bag. And so you just decide to not sleep ever again and be miserable for the next four hours. Just go pee! In exchange for two minutes of discomfort outside your bag (you were already uncomfortable) to go pee in the forest, you will receive a night's-worth of quality sleep and a nod of approval from your old Boy Scouts leader. Not only will you will be infinitely more comfortable. And you will actually be warmer. Your body diverts energy from the rest of your body to keep your pee warm in your bladder, energy that would be better spent on the rest of your body (like your extremities). Eliminating your pee frees up energy for your happiness.

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