Archive for April, 2009

folding knives

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2009

Knives were usually kept in a sheath for two reasons. One is to protect the person from the sharp blades. The other is to protect the sharp edge of the knife from being deformed. The sheath was earlier hanged from the belt. It was symbolic of the warrior.

The knives in sheaths eventually took on a sleek look. The handles folded into the blade thereby protecting them from accidents. These were called folding knives. Modern day folding knives are popular collector’s items. You can find simple single blade knives or the sophisticated multi-blade Swiss knife. It is an important tool to bring along when camping.

dry bag

Wednesday, April 15th, 2009

One of the unfortunate things that can happen on a camping trip is getting lost. To avoid this, stay on well-marked trails and always have a buddy when you go out exploring. A good idea is to be equipped with a whistle. Another good idea is to inform your companions on which way you plan to go in your exploration. When the unfortunate happens, blow your whistle repeatedly and help will surely come your way.

It is important to keep your belongings safe and dry while waiting for help to come. You don’t want a soggy lunch or wet change of clothes. This will not happen if you took a dry bag with you. It is also helpful when you have a camera, compass or other camping gears with you. Most of all don’t panic and keep a positive mind.

Tandem kayaks

Wednesday, April 15th, 2009

There are so many outdoor activities a husband and wife can learn together. One of them is kayaking. A kayak is a boat that is powered by a human. Kayaking makes use of a double-bladed paddle with the paddler facing forward.

Normally, kayaks are for one person. However, there are Tandem kayaks available for those who prefer to have company. A Tandem kayak is larger and more expensive. It is also difficult to maneuver especially is you are alone. This kind of kayak works best if you are in synchrony with your partner. This way you can paddle more efficiently. Having a partner also allows you to make rests every now and then as you and your partner may take turns paddling.

Family tents

Wednesday, April 15th, 2009

Camping is much more exciting if you don’t have to stay in a cabin and have all the convenient amenities you already have at home. Family tents are a great alternative to enjoy camping and the outdoors without totally missing out on a few home comforts. Once assembled, it can be your home away from home, rough-living style.

These types of tents are very big and are ideal for large groups. Some models even enable users to stand up inside instead of having to stoop. Family tents also have straight walls that make the inside area more spacious than that of a dome tent. Some have dividers that offer privacy as they allow for separate doors and sleeping quarters. Materials used in these types of tents are generally stronger and more durable than those used in backpacking and hiking tents.

Inflatable kayaks

Wednesday, April 15th, 2009

Don’t take any chances of going somewhere you plan to go kayaking and find out too late that there are no kayaks to be rented there. Inflatable kayaks are the best solutions to these types of trips. They can be set up in a few minutes and are compact enough to take along anywhere you want to go.

Inflatable kayaks are made of extremely durable materials and high-end components. Their bows slice through water like a knife and will rival the trackability of their hard-shell counterparts. The stern acts as a skeg that increases the tracking performance. The high support and adjustable padded seat will provide riders comfortable hours of paddling.

truck tent

Tuesday, April 14th, 2009

Make your vehicle a part of your outdoor adventure! Make use of a truck tent to turn part of your vehicle into a sleeping or storage area. SUVs and hatchbacks will have extra storage space for stuff like coolers plus possible extra sleeping spaces in larger models. With trucks, you can actually fit the tent in the bed of the truck and use the tailgate too.

The innovative truck tent has a sleeve that attaches to the opening of a vehicle. The sleeve has an elastic cord that fits around the opening. Since there is a maximum size of cords, be sure to match the tent you’re buying to the type of vehicle you have. Measure your car or SUV’s opening to double check which tent will fit it best.

camping water filters

Tuesday, April 14th, 2009

If you are going on a camping trip you need to plan and take care of a lot of things. You need to put out your tent, emergency kits, proper clothing, and sleeping bags for all the members joining the trip. You plan your meals and pack things you need to bring with you. Cooler boxes will be helpful in transporting perishable items. Don’t forget to take care of your drinking and cooking water needs.

You are not sure if water in your camping site is clean enough to drink. Of course you will not want to risk your family’s safety. So, plan on bringing camping water filters. Be ready with some treatment method that will disinfect suspect water supply. Aside from water you ingest, be observant of clean practices regarding personal hygiene. Some campers get sick because of poor sanitation practices that could have been solved by careful washing of the hands with clean water.

camping knives

Wednesday, April 8th, 2009

Your family can actually save a few dollars if you decide to go camping instead of spending your vacation in a theme park or resort. The trip going to the camp site will in itself be an educational experience. Point out things and places that you don’t usually see in your neighborhood. Stop for snacks in places that serve a different menu that your family has not tried before. Shop around for small items that are made by people in the locality. These can be conversation pieces and something to show and tell in school.

Food and other supplies can be purchased in advance and brought with you. Some equipment can be rented. Ask your friends for tools that you can borrow. Buy your camping knives, flashlights and bug repellents in discount stores. Instead of buying new camping clothes take out your old denim pants, faded shirts but invest in new trekking shoes for all the members of the family.

wilderness lodging

Wednesday, April 8th, 2009

Vacation destinations can vary for every family. They can have adventurous vacations and find wilderness lodging where they can truly enjoy the outdoors. You will be away from all the traffic and busy life in the city and have a quiet and fun time in the wilderness.

You can see different animals when you are in the wild. You can appreciate nature when you are not distracted by all the technology that is available to you. Getting away from all your city life is important so you can recharge and come back raring to go. And you and your whole family can really spend some bonding time outdoors. You can plan your next vacation already and enjoy the wilderness lodging once again.

Ocean kayaks

Tuesday, April 7th, 2009

Some families prefer to spend their vacation in cottages beside the beach. This is a good way to teach the children the safe way to play in the water. They should be reminded that running, pushing and jumping on others in the water can be dangerous. Adults should always keep their eyes on the smaller ones. With some patience you might even be able to teach them how to swim.

While younger children are happy just wading in the water and playing in the sand, older children will be looking forward to more exciting adventures. This might be a good time to introduce them to kayaking or boating. Ocean kayaks and paddle boats are available to rent, or you can invest on one. Get a professional to teach them the safe way. Kids learn fast and before you know it they will be on their way to their first competition.