Coleman Sundome 4-Person Tent Review: Is it Worth it?

Coleman 4-Man Tent

Camping is an activity that people of all age groups enjoy. I still remember my very first camping trip when I was 8 years old. When I was young, my family and I would drive up to a new location every time and set up our tents.

I was ecstatic when I found the Coleman Sundome since it was the perfect size for my small family.

In this article, I’ll give you the Coleman Sundome 4-person tent review along with other alternatives that suit any person’s needs.  

Coleman Sundome 4-Person Tent Overview

Camping until today is one of the most fun activities a person can participate in, and who’s better to trust with your outdoor activity needs than Coleman.

Coleman products were first introduced back during World War 2 when the first gas-powered lantern was lit during an evening football game in Mississippi.

Coleman tents have been around for a long time. They’re known for their fantastic design and durability.

Fitting 4 people wasn’t a hassle for Coleman, as they have tents that can fit up to 10 people!

Pros

  • Spacious
  • Waterproof material
  • Affordable
  • Sturdy construction
  • Durable

Cons

  • Not recommended for snowy weather
  • Not for heavy rain
  • Not suitable on unlevel terrain

Things to Consider Before Buying a Tent

The Coleman Sundome 4-person tent is made for the camp lovers. It’s an excellent option for groups of 4 or 5 people.

If you’ll be using the tent alone or with sharing it with one person, then this tent may be too big for you. It would be ideal to choose a smaller tent that would be lighter and more affordable.

The tent is perfect to be used during most weather conditions. However, you should try to avoid extremely heavy rain though and snow.

Here are a few things to look out for before buying a tent:

  • Are the ventilation windows enough for you?
  • How do you intend to use the tent? (hunting, hiking, beach camping, etc.)
  • In which seasons are you most likely to use the tent?
  • Will you be able to use the stakes in the place you’re planning to set up camp?
  • Is it easy to go backpacking with this tent?  
  • How many people will be using the tent?

Coleman Sundome Features and Benefits  

There are a couple of things that caught my attention in this tent. Let’s check them out.  

The Design

Coleman made this tent to suit most weather conditions. It’s able to sustain rain, wind, and hot summer days! Thanks to its great polyester material, this tent would be there for you for 3 seasons.

Sundome also offers an effective ventilation system. It has a window that allows air and sunlight in.

Something that makes this tent exceptional is the shade. During extreme heat, when you sit inside and open up the window, you’ll feel that it maintains cooler temperatures inside.

The size of the tent fits 3-4 people comfortably with plenty of space for your things. You’ll also find that there’s a built-in storage pocket that keeps most of your things secured inside.

Even though this tent is designed to fit 4 people, it fit 5 of us when my family and I used it on a camping trip.  

To get a better idea of how big the tent is, you can easily fit a queen-sized mattress. You’ll still have plenty of room inside for your bags and personal belongings.

For those of us who can’t survive long without our electronic devices, Coleman Sundome offers an E-port that lets you charge any of your devices with ease.

With all the things this tent offers, I was really worried about the weight! I was happy to see how lightweight it is. It only weighs around 9 lbs, so you’ll be able to carry it around if you plan on changing locations at any time on the trip.

Even Though it’s lightweight when compared to other tents, I found that it may be a bit too much when carried with other things for a long time. I came to the conclusion that it’s best to assign one person who carries the tent and just divide the rest of the stuff among other people on the trip.  

You should keep in mind though that it’s best to use this tent on flat grounds. When placed on uneven terrain, it might be somewhat uncomfortable for you while sleeping.

Setting Up and Taking Down The Tent

If you’ve been a camper for some time, you know the hassle of setting up the spring bars. Getting one side through the second loop is the worst part of setting up.

What Coleman did is that they designed the sleeve to go from one side to the other without the headache of separation like in other tents.

You’d pretty much just need to hook up the spring bars. and you’re all ready to go. If this is your first time setting up a tent, it might take you somewhere between 10-15 minutes to set it up.

For more experienced campers, it can take you around 5 minutes to set it up.

To take down, you’d just need to remove the fiberglass spring bars, and it’ll fit in the bag with ease. You don’t have to worry about stuffing the tent vigorously to fit!

WeatherTech Features

One of the perks of this tent is that it has the WeatherTech feature. What that means is that the bottom of the tent is made of a material similar to a tub’s floor.

The corners are also patented and all seams are covered. These features keep all water out and keep you dry while it’s raining outside.

It’s made with a double-thick fabric which guarantees that it’ll stay with you for years to come.  

The tent is designed as a 3-season tent. It’s best if it’s not used in winter in the areas where it has snow or hail.

Although this keeps water out, the reason it’s not suitable for snow and heavy rain is that water build-up may start going through the top seams.

That’s why it’s best to use it during light rain.

What Others Think of the Coleman Sundome Tent

Before I buy anything, I like to take the time to find out what other buyers think of it.

I wasn’t surprised when I found out the number of positive reviews of this tent. Most people pointed out that the tent was made of excellent material and that it comes at a great price.

There were also a few reviews regarding the WeatherTech features that made them enjoy their trip to the max!

What are the Other Options?

If you think the Coleman Sundome 4-person tent isn’t the one for you, here are some awesome alternatives.

Mountain Smith Conifer

This tent is spacious enough to fit 5 people comfortably. It’s also suitable for all weather types, and it has internal storage pockets.

Mountain Smith created a tent that is so easy to store and set up in just a few minutes.

Although it’s a bit expensive, I think the material it’s made of, and the number of people it can fit makes it worth it.

KAZOO Family Camping Tent

KAZOO made a tent that doesn’t look like ordinary tents. Its cabin shape makes it one of a kind!

The best thing about this tent is the automatic set up feature. You’ll have the tent up and ready to use in as little as 30 seconds. It can also fit 4 adults inside.

The tent is suitable to use during most weather conditions since it’s made with durable waterproof material.

Ezone Waterproof Tent

This Ezone tent is waterproof but won’t sustain heavy rain. It fits 3 to 4 adults.

It has a two-way ventilation system, which will give a nice breeze on hot days. A great option Ezone added to the tent is the skylight piece.

Mountain Smith Conifer KAZOO Family Camping TentEzone Waterproof Tent
Fits 5 people4 standing poles
Can sustain heavy rain
On the expensive end
Fits 4 adults
Suitable for 3 seasons 2-year warranty
Automatic set up
On the expensive end
Fits 4 people Easy setup Waterproof Not suitable for windy daysBudget-friendly

With everything I’ve mentioned above, I think that Coleman Sundome is a fantastic choice.

You’ll be able to go camping in most of the weather conditions. It can sustain wind due to its sturdy material, which isn’t an option you’ll find with many 4-person tents.

Not only would it keep you dry, but it would also keep you cool on hot summer days.

Check out the Coleman Sundome 4-person tent here.

Coleman Montana 8-Person Tent Review

Coleman montana 8 person tent

Going camping with family or friends can be a fun and healthy experience. As a camper, the first thing on your list should be a suitable camping tent.

That’s why we’re offering you an honest Coleman Montana 8-person tent review. This amazing tent had our attention right away.

Coleman Montana 8-Person Tent Overview

What makes this tent almost every camper’s dream is that it has everything you might want in a tent.

It’s manufactured in a way that shouldn’t allow any rain inside, which should grant you a cozy, dry interior.

Also, you and 7 other people should feel comfortable inside.

There’s also another version of it in the market, which is the Coleman Montana 8-Person Lighted Tent. What makes that version different is that it’s equipped with LED tent light. You can adjust this lighting system to high, low, or night light.

Yet, this lighted version is almost double the price.

If you’re wondering about the story of Coleman, it all started with a gas-powered lantern designed by W.C. Coleman in 1900. Because of these lanterns, people were able to watch the first football night game in 1905.

Later in 1942, Coleman helped WWII soldiers by providing them with camping stoves.

Now, almost 120 years later, Coleman is a well-known company of anything camping-related.

Pros

  • Only takes 15 minutes to set up
  • Comes with welded corners and inverted seams
  • Long-lasting fabric material
  • Hinged door
  • Equipped with storage pockets

Cons

  • One door might not be enough for a spacious tent
  • The raised door might cause you to slip when entering the tent
  • The provided fiberglass stakes can easily bend

Things to Consider Before Buying a Tent

To buy the right tent to suit your needs, there are a few factors to think about.

This tent is for anyone with a love for adventure and nature. If you plan on camping with a large group of people, then this tight could be the one for you.

On the other hand, if you’re someone who struggles with anxiety or has breathing issues, then being cloistered with 7 more people won’t work for you.

Instead, you can get your own tent without having to worry about everyone else. It should keep you dry, comfortable, and your anxiety will mostly fade away.

Factors to Think About Before Buying a Tent

Before you buy a tent, ask yourself a few questions.

  • How many people will use the tent? The number of people will determine how large the tend should be.  
  • Are you going to hike carrying the tent? If so, you’ll need to buy a lightweight tent.
  • Do you enjoy camping on rainy days? A weather-resistant tent is the answer.
  • Will you set up the tent alone or with help? In all cases, setting a tent shouldn’t be much of a hassle.

Coleman Montana 8-Person Tent Features

In this section, we’ll discuss the remarkable features of this wonderful tent. Each one of the following features could be of great help with one or several things you might need.

Type and Structure

This tent is a dome tent, which consists of a central area and two additional spaces on both sides. It’s prepped up by two main poles that cross each other like an X.

Also, there are extra poles that create the additional spaces.

The tent structure and big size, which is 16 x 7 x 6 feet, should allow you to fit in three queen-size air beds. This could be beneficial if you like to do group camping trips. This tent should accommodate 8 members comfortably.

I would’ve appreciated this space whenever I went camping with my group of friends. It always feels nice when you don’t have to be crowded all in a 4-person tent.

However, the stakes provided aren’t enough to keep the tent standing on its own. You’ll need to buy more reliable stakes.

Materials and Making

The Coleman Montana 8-person tent is made of polyester fabric, which should protect you from outside weather.

Also, the corner welds and inverted seams help keep the water from leaking in.

Another detail that we like is the extended door awning. It should keep any stuff you place underneath it dry.

We were also impressed by the rainfly, which covers all the important parts of the tent. It comes with taped seams to prevent any rainwater from leaking into the body of the tent.

The Coleman Montana 8-person tent relies on the WeatherTec system, which helps reduce moisture.

However, there are some materials that we don’t like. For instance, the poles that should hold the tent upright are fiberglass. These can bend after a while of use and might need a replacement.

Door Details

What’s also great about this tent is how much detail there is in the door design.

First of all, the door is slightly elevated to keep any water from slipping inside.

The inner camper spirit inside you should be thrilled for the hinged door feature. This should allow you easy access in and out.

But there’s only one downside to this feature. If you’re going to camp with 7 people, then having only one door to enter the tent might not be enough.

Setting Up

Another feature that’s worth mentioning is that this tent is easy to set up. It should take about 15 minutes to set up if you’re on your own.

With additional help, it might take you less than that. It also comes with clear instructions so you wouldn’t get lost.

This is an important feature. Because you won’t want to spend the first day of camping trying to figure out how to set a tent.

Folding

This could’ve come in handy when I went out camping once. I’d received an urgent call and had to leave right away, but folding my tent took me plenty of time.

Portability

One of the first things that make a good tent is how portable it is. If you plan on going hiking before camping, then you need a lightweight tent to carry it in your backpack.

Besides this tent, you’ll need to carry your belongings, more stakes, and lanterns in your backpack. This Coleman tent only weighs about 24 lbs, which should allow you to carry everything without much effort.

E-Port

Even though we use camping to escape technology, we might need to charge our phones just in case.

This is why this tent is equipped with an e-port for electric power. There’s no need to miss an important phone call.

Walls and Windows

Last but not least, let’s talk about the design for the tent walls and windows.

This Coleman Montana tent has three windows. One of them is attached to the door and you can open or close it. As for the other two windows, they’re open and provide enough ventilation for the tent space.

What’s wonderful about these windows is that they’re at an inverted angle. They’re also positioned under the rainfly. So, while it’s raining, you can watch the world outside without getting wet.

They’re also covered with mesh to let some air in and prevent insects from bothering you. I would’ve appreciated this feature that time I camped outside with nothing to keep the mosquitos away.

The only thing we don’t like is that there aren’t any vents close to the tent floor.

As for the inner walls, you’ll find that they have pockets where you can put your valuables. However, they might be too small to be useful for 8 people.

What Customers Think About This Tent

We’ve taken the liberty to search the internet for reviews about this spectacular tent. Many of these reviews were promising.

Let’s find out what these customers had to say about it.

After reading these comments, it’s pretty obvious why this tent is so popular.

Other Products You Might Like

In this section, we’ll provide you with other alternatives you might find better suited for your needs.

Core 9-Person Dome Tent

Here’s another option for a nice dome tent. It’s almost the same price as the Coleman Montana.

However, what makes this tent different is that it has much more space, and can fit up to 9 people.

Hikergarden 8-Person Tent

Looking for another big tent? This one by Hikergarden might grab your interest.

It’s waterproof, windproof, and made of the finest material. But it’s more expensive than the Coleman tent.

There’s a noteworthy feature in this tent, though. It’s equipped with a curtain so you can divide it into rooms to have some privacy.

LTK Laredo 8-Person Tent

If you’re willing to spend more than double on a more spacious tent, then you might admire this one.

What makes this tent special is its heavy-duty anti-fungus floor material.

It’s also equipped with a full-coverage rainfly. This rainfly is made of a double layer of laminated polyester.

Alternatives Summary

Core 9-Person Dome Tent Hikergarden 8-Person TentNTK Laredo 9-Person Tent
H2O Block technology
Features a lantern hook and wall pockets
Taped seams to keep the water out
Water-resistant PU coated fabric
Windproof frame
Rainproof material
Comes with a curtain to divide the space
Full-coverage rainfly
UV protection
PU coated fabric
Comes with mosquito mesh
Anti-fungus floor material

Finding the right camping tent can be challenging sometimes. You have to take so much into consideration.

The Coleman Montana 8-person tent definitely stands out. It’s big enough to host a large group of family or friends.

What’s also great about it is that it’s portable. So, you can keep it in a backpack and not worry about additional weight.

Also, we like its durable, weatherproof material that would keep you dry on rainy days.

If you like this tent, check it out here.

Best Rain Ponchos for Hiking While It’s Raining

rain poncho

There’s nothing quite like the fresh outdoors. Camping and hiking are 2 of the most exciting activities. Trees, plants, and fresh air can be exhilarating. But only if you have the right gear.

This is why you should always pack a rain poncho in your hiking pack. Yet it’s frustrating picking from the many choices on the market.

So we searched online for the best rain poncho for hiking. We found the top 5.

Top Rain Ponchos for Outdoor Activities

These ponchos will prevent putting your plans on hold for bad weather.

They’re versatile, they’re functional, and the best part is you can take them anywhere.

One of the main features of this 70 x 60-inch rain poncho is that the back is much longer. This makes it enough to cover even the largest of backpacks. It remains close to your body to prevent water inflow while keeping you warm.

It’s made from Paratex Dry material which is 100% completely waterproof. Yet the material can be a bit lacking when it comes to breathability. It comes in 3 basic dark colors and isn’t gender-specific.

In the front, you’ll find a pocket covered with a storm flap. You can place your wallet, phone, as well as other items you want close by. But the sleeves prevent it from opening up and turning into a sheet or tarp.

This poncho comes with real sleeves, not just armholes. The cuffs at the wrist have elastic to provide extra protection.

The hood comes with a drawstring that closes around your face while keeping it visible. The poncho comes with a 4 x 8-inch pouch for safe storage. It weighs only 14 ounces. This makes it easy to tie on your backpack, pack with your hiking gear, and even use it as a comfortable pillow.

PROS

  • Its large size helps protect you and your gear
  • Lightweight and can be easily squeezed into its small storage pouch
  • Has sleeves with elastic cuffs
  • Comes with a front pocket with a Velcro strip
  • Exclusive Paratex Dry material is waterproof yet keeps you snug and warm

CONS

  • It’s too long in the back if you’re not carrying a backpack
  • Price is a bit high

The Charles River poncho is one of the best available on the market. It’s made from high-quality New England polyurethane for an outer layer. On the inside, there’s a comfortable knit layer. These two layers make sure you stay warm, dry, and protected from the wind.

The seams are heat-sealed as extra insurance against water getting in. It’s lightweight and can be easily folded into its storage pouch or your hiking gear. There are snap closures on the neck and sides for quickly getting into or out of the poncho. These snaps allow you to open up the poncho completely flat and use it as a tarp.

The hood comes with pull tabs to close around your face while keeping it exposed. There are two buttons on the neck area to adjust the size of the hood because it can be slightly large for some heads.

This poncho comes in an array of 6 different colors and weighs 16 ounces. It can only be hand-washed. Then leave it to dry somewhere well-ventilated.

It’s important to mention that when you first open up the poncho, you’ll smell a distinct chemical odor. This can be removed by unfolding the poncho and letting it air out.

PROS

  • Available in more than 15 colors
  • Made from eco-friendly material
  • Lightweight
  • Folds easily into a user-friendly pouch
  • Large size when opened (52 x 80 inches)
  • Hood comes with tightening straps
  • Snaps shut at the neck and sides

CONS

  • The smell can be a bit overwhelming
  • Generic sized hood may be too big for some

One of the best things about the SaphiRose 55 x 47.5-inch rain poncho is how versatile it can be. It can be used as a poncho, tent, mat, tarp, canopy, and more. Its large size makes it great for wearing it over large backpacks.

It’s made from eco-friendly high-quality polyester. This material is completely waterproof, yet comfortable to wear and breathable.

The seams on this poncho have been heat-sealed to protect against water coming in. There are also button fasteners as an extra safety precaution.

Another great feature is its front pocket for storing your phone and other valuables. It opens and closes with a large, durable zipper. The adjustable hood comes with drawstrings to protect your head from the rain and wind.

You can choose from an assortment of colors and styles to suit both men and women. Its 10.9 ounces make it light to carry while being portable. It’s compact while providing ample protection from all types of weather. It comes with a storage pouch for easy transport and safekeeping.

PROS

  • Its large size makes it versatile and practical
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Has a front pocket to hold valuables
  • The material is breathable yet durable
  • Easy to adjust the size for a perfect fit

CONS

  • Some users complained of the material being too thin and completely waterproof
  • Doesn’t come with wrist straps

Anyoo provides you with a durable, waterproof rain poncho that will keep you and your backpack dry and protected. It’s made from high-quality, eco-friendly polyester that keeps you warm, yet without being too stuffy. The nylon is resistant to rips, tears, and abrasion.

The adjustable hood has drawstrings to close in and protect your head against wind and rain. It has an overhang to shield your face from the rain.

This poncho has eyelets on the hem edges so you can easily use it as a tarp, tent, or lay it flat on the ground like a mat. It also has hook and loop fasteners. They can turn the poncho into a sleeping bag, or create ‘sleeves’ while you’re wearing it for easy mobility.

It comes in a variety of colors to suit your needs and fashion style. It’s not gender-specific. The poncho is lightweight, weighing approximately 9 ounces. It comes with a portable drawstring bag for easy transport and storage.

PROS

  • Has hem eyelets for easy use as a tent or tarp
  • Comes with hook and loop fasteners for using as a sleeping bag or making sleeves
  • Its large size makes it great for protecting your backpack
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Comes in many colors

CONS

  • Material isn’t as durable as other brands
  • Some users have reported snap fasteners easily breaking off

Frogg Toggs is well-known for its reliability. This 36 x 54-inch poncho is a popular favorite among users because it’s versatile and lightweight. It’s made with bilaminate polypropylene. This material is 100% waterproof, yet breathable and light at the same time.

The seams are heat-sealed to protect against water inflow, wind, and the cold. There are snap closures on the sides to make it easier to get into and out of. These snaps also allow it to open up flat.

The adjustable hood has both drawstrings and pull-tabs to provide you with a comfortable, secure fit. This poncho, and its storage pouch, weigh only 8.8 ounces. This feature makes it easy to carry around and fold up into its storage pouch. It comes in only 4 dark colors but isn’t gender-specific.

PROS

  • The size of the hood can be adjusted for a perfect fit
  • Comes with side snaps for practicality and versatility
  • The material keeps you well-ventilated
  • It weighs lighter than most ponchos on the market
  • The price is affordable

CONS

  • Material is prone to rips and tears
  • Comes in only 4 color choices

The Benefits of Having Rain Poncho

  • Their length is perfect for protecting almost all of your body from getting wet.
  • They weigh next to nothing, making them easy to carry around.
  • They contain adjustable hoods with drawstrings to protect your head from the rain.
  • A good number of ponchos come with handy features that boost their functionality.
  • They’re designed so you can quickly put it on and take it off without any hassles.
  • They can be used as tents, mats, tarps, hammocks, and a lot more.
  • They provide more ventilation and breathability than rain jackets.

Choosing the Best Rain Ponchos for Hiking

A rain poncho could be one of your best investments. It packs easily into your bag, it weighs almost nothing, yet it saves you and your gear from sudden downpours.

It’s important you stay away from cheap rain ponchos that are only good for one use. They don’t do a very good job of keeping you dry and warm when the rain starts pouring.

Material

It’s true that all ponchos are designed with waterproof material. The main types of materials used to make ponchos are:

Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic fabric makes ponchos ideal for easy transport. They’re lightweight, yet durable. They’re also resistant to tears, stretching, and wrinkling. It also dries quickly while retaining its shape.

Polyethylene

Polyethylene is a common type of plastic polyethylene. It’s not as durable as other types of materials, but it’s better for the environment.

Breathable laminates

Breathable laminates are great because they prevent moisture from accumulating inside the poncho. It’s made from layers of fabric and plastic to keep you warm, dry, and well-ventilated.

Paratex dry

This fabric is made with a hydrophilic polyurethane layer. This ensures no water can get into your poncho. Paratex dry is durable, breathable, and reliable in all kinds of weather.

The best type of material is breathable to prevent sweat and odor build-up. When the material is light and airy, you feel more comfortable. Also, don’t forget to check out the hood. Make sure the drawstrings are working. Some hoods also come with an overhang.

While that may be true, it’s not just the type of material that makes a poncho waterproof or not.

There are other things you have to consider when buying a poncho. For example, heat-sealed seams provide extra waterproof protection than regular seams. There are also closures, such as Velcro, snaps, and buttons, that can either help prevent water inflow or act as a tiny opening that lets in water.

Size

Ponchos are usually one-size-fits-all. Sometimes the drawstrings in the hood and the snap fasteners on the sides make for a better fit. But, they’re meant to be loose-fitting.

Another feature is its length. Some ponchos reach below the knees, and some are only waist-high. The longer the poncho, the more coverage you’ll have for you and your gear against the rain.

Also, check to see if your poncho is gender-specific or unisex. This could also make a difference when it comes to the size and length of the poncho.

Weight

Finding a lightweight, yet durable, a poncho can be tricky. There are ponchos that are heavy or bulky. They add extra weight which isn’t practical when you’re going on a hike.

On the other hand, if the weight of the poncho is too light, then it’s probably made from low-quality material which can easily rip or tear. Delicate, extremely lightweight materials don’t make good ponchos.

Extra Features

Protecting you and your gear from the rain and wind is an important feature of all ponchos. But it can be fun knowing there are other clever features that come with your poncho to make it a little more practical.

For example, many ponchos have grommets, hem eyelets, and hook and loop fasteners. These features help turn ponchos into tents, tarps, stretchers, and even sleeping bags. You can also find snap closures on the sides of ponchos for easy opening and closing.

The hood comes with its own set of nifty accessories. There are drawstrings and overhangs to keep you warm and dry. Some ponchos have front pockets with flaps or zippers to keep valuable items dry.

Price

The price of a poncho depends on the material it’s made from. The higher the price, the more durable the material. This means it will last longer and provide you with more protection. This is your best option if you’re an avid adventurer who goes hiking on a regular basis.

However, if you’re not planning on using your poncho that much, then it’d be wiser to choose one with a lower price tag. They’ll get the job done without ruining your budget.

Washing your Poncho

Taking care of your poncho will keep it functioning properly and ensure it lasts longer. As soon as you buy your poncho, it has to be washed and dried thoroughly. You can wash it in the washing machine set to a delicate cycle. Use cold water and a mild detergent. This helps protect the seams and stitching. Make sure all Velcro straps, snaps, and buttons are closed and fastened.

You can also hand wash it if you prefer. Leave it to dry air in a well-ventilated area.

Once it’s dry, you can use a waterproofing wash or spray. This is a great investment that preserves and maintains your poncho. You can use the spray and leave it to dry. If you’re going to use the wash, toss your poncho in the washing machine. Add the waterproof wash as you would a regular detergent, and set the machine to a gentle cycle. Leave to air dry.

Conclusion

Once you find a quality poncho you’ll wonder how you ever managed to live without it. They’re functional, versatile, and don’t take up too much space. After reading our review, we know you’ve already picked your top choice for the best rain ponchos.

Our number one pick is the Snugpak Patrol Poncho. It’s the most expensive on our list, but for good reason. It’s made from the exclusive Paratex Dry fabric which is breathable and lightweight. It’s durable to handle tugs and pulls without rips or tears. Besides being a reliable poncho, it can be used as an emergency shelter from the rain.

If you’re looking for a poncho that’s just as dependable but with a lower price tag, why not go with the FROGG TOGGS Ultra-Lite2 Waterproof Breathable Poncho? It’s light and compact and has many uses besides being a poncho. It’s made from laminate which is waterproof yet breathable which makes it easy to wear. This material is resistant to rain, wind, tears, and snags. Its heat-sealed seams and side snap features provide extra protection and functionality.

Best Portable Air Conditioner for Tent Camping

Spending time in a hot tent can be a real nightmare. We chose the hOmeLabs 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner as the best tent air conditioner as it keeps the temperature cool in a hot and big tent so you can enjoy your time to the maximum. Moreover, you can also activate the dehumidifier function to feel more relaxed.

Being an outdoor fan doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t make use of new technologies. Packing a tent air conditioner for your upcoming camping trip will change your life. You can sleep better and feel more refreshed regardless of the condition of the weather.

In this article, we’ll review 6 of the best air conditioners that you can pack for your next outdoor adventure. We’ll also answer all the questions that you need to ask before buying one.

Reviews of the Best Tent Air Conditioners

Camping in hot or humid weather should never be a problem as long as you’ve got the right air conditioner to install in your tent. Check out our top picks.

Experience a refreshing and relaxing day with the help of this unit as it can cool an area between 450 and 600 square feet. This is an excellent air conditioner for bigger tents and hot weather because it’s powerful enough with 14000 BTUs. At the same time, it stays quiet so you can sleep calmly at night.

Equipped with a vertical swing function, it will guarantee better air distribution. It’s quite easy to install and comes with built-in wheels that allow you to move it with no issues. The installation process can be completed in 8 minutes as long as you have an adequate window in your tent.

At the same time, this air conditioner works as a dehumidifier that keeps you fresh in challenging weather. It comes with a washable air filter that should be cleaned regularly. The remote control allows you to control all the functions without leaving your bed. Whether you want to change the fan speed, cooling temperature, or activate the eco-friendly mode while sleeping, you can do this using the remote control.

It’s quite heavy as it weighs 72.3 pounds and is more expensive than other air conditioners. Nevertheless, it’s an excellent investment as it holds the temperature and can be used at home after you’re back from your camping trip.

PROS

  • Powerful unit for bigger tents and bad weather.
  • Dehumidifier function.
  • Fast installation.
  • Built-in wheels and remote control.
  • Improved air distribution thanks to the vertical swing function.

CONS

  • More expensive than other models.

This is a compact yet practical window-mounted air conditioner that can be used in your tent. The 5000 BTUs are enough to keep a medium-sized tent cool as it can work in a room that measures up to 150 square feet. Moreover, it dehumidifies the air for more comfort at a rate of 1.1 pints per hour

Starting up this unit doesn’t take much power, and its silent operation makes it an excellent choice for outdoor use. It’s not noisy being a compressor unit, and won’t keep you awake at night. It features a filter with an antibacterial mesh that keeps bacteria away.

Mechanical rotary controls allow you to manage the cooling and fan speed. The 2-way direction control will enable you to direct the airflow towards you. This air conditioner requires a standard 115V electrical outlet and is quite easy to install.

Carrying this unit to the campsite might be a bit challenging as it weighs 41 pounds and has no wheels. It doesn’t have a remote control or a timer, and it’s pretty basic. However, after you’re back home, you can easily use it in any room.

PROS

  • Silent operation.
  • Rotary controls for the cooling and fan speed.
  • 2-way air direction.
  • Easy to install.

CONS

  • Doesn’t have a timer or remote control.
  • Quite heavy.

Spending time with your friends and family will be more enjoyable once you bring this air conditioner along. The 10000 BTUs are designed for a bigger tent and hotter days. At the same time, you can customize the fan and dehumidification operation to keep your tent more comfortable.

Easy to read digital controls allow you to customize the settings whenever you like. You can adjust the speed, timer, or simply use the dehumidification function while you’re sleeping. Moreover, there’s a light indicator that tells you that it’s time to clean the filter.

You can easily install it to the door or window of your tent. It arrives with an LED remote control that you can use when you’re relaxing. Moreover, you can switch off the lights on the panel to guarantee that you won’t be disturbed at night. The unit comes with wheels, so you don’t have to carry it around as it weighs 65.3 pounds.

This is a smart unit with lots of features as it adjusts the cooling temperature based on your distance from the air conditioner. The filter can be washed and reused, saving you some cash in the long run. However, this unit is a bit noisy.

PROS

  • Powerful enough to cool bigger tents.
  • Remote control to adjust speed, fan, and timer settings.
  • Light indicator for filter replacement.
  • Built-in wheels for easy transport.
  • Reusable filter.

CONS

  • Noisy operation.

Whether you want to cool your tent or keep it dry, this will work as it comes with 8000 BTUs. It’s a good choice for a larger tent, and it has three different functions; air conditioner, dehumidifier, and a fan.

The digital LED panel and the programmable timer will help you adjust the operation according to your needs. You can set the 24-hour timer to turn it on and off based on your sleeping hours. If you’re going on a hike, you can set the unit to work, so your tent feels cool by the time you’re back.

In the sleep mode, it increases and holds the temperature for sound sleep. This unit is straightforward to install and comes with 4 stainless steel castors and one handle for portability. It weighs 44 pounds.

With a built-in self-evaporation system, most of the water will be recycled to keep the temperature cool. When the water tank is full, a light will let you know that it’s time to drain it. There are manual and automatic draining options.

Although this is quite noisy, you can lower the fan speed to keep it quieter while you’re sleeping. The window installation process is divided into 4 steps, and the filter can be cleaned using water or a vacuum cleaner every month.

PROS

  • Can cool up a large tent.
  • 24-hour programmable timer.
  • Remote control and built-in wheels.
  • Special sleep mode for more comfort.
  • Notifies you when the water tank is full.

CONS

  • Noisy unit.

If you’re looking for a multifunctional unit, then this is the one for you. It can be used to cool the air, heater, fan, dehumidifier, and air purifier. You can use it while camping in any weather condition as it regulates the temperature according to your needs.

Reducing the temperature of the air inside your tent with the power of water evaporation, you’ll never feel uncomfortable regardless of the weather condition. The unit releases anions to remove the airborne pollutants so you can breathe fresh and clean air. It removes dust, unpleasant odors, smoke, and other irritants for maximum convenience.

Customizing this unit is easy as you can switch between 3 fan modes and speeds, while the swing feature guarantees better air distribution. Moreover, the 8-hour programmable timer allows you to operate it according to your sleeping hours. There are 2 ice-crystal boxes that enhance cooling, especially in scorching weather.

It features a user-friendly LCD control that shows all the data so you can set the speed, time, and mode. You’ll also receive a remote control to use when you want to adjust the operation of the unit.

There are 4 caster wheels that allow you to move it comfortably, although it’s a lightweight model that weighs 17 pounds. The air conditioner is a bit challenging to operate as it doesn’t come with clear instructions. It cools your tent but might not hold the temperature for long.

PROS

  • 5-in-1 unit.
  • Ability to control fan speed and mode.
  • 8-hour programmability.
  • LCD control.
  • Lightweight model with 4 wheels.

CONS

  • Instructions are confusing.
  • Doesn’t hold the temperature for long, especially in challenging weather.

Depending on the heat load, this unit can be used to cool up to 250 square feet thanks to its 12000 BTUs. The thermostat can be adjusted, and the temperature is displayed in Fahrenheit or Celsius degrees.

It works as a heater and dehumidifier that dehumidifies up to 81 pints per day. This air conditioner is an excellent choice for campers as it can be used in hot or cold weather. Thanks to its quiet operation, this unit can be placed in any tent without disturbing campers while they’re relaxing or sleeping.

To make sure that you’re breathing clean and fresh air, this unit features a carbon filter in addition to the regular washable pre filter. The carbon filter can be replaced as needed.

In most cases, you won’t have to drain the unit manually. Thanks to the automatic drain system, the water is recycled to enhance the cooling function using the self-evaporating technology. Controlling the fan speed is easy as you can choose between 3 settings, and even operate the fan on its own without the cooling setting.

This smart unit holds your settings, so you don’t have to readjust it every time you switch it on. It comes with a 24-hour timer that allows you to use it while you’re sleeping. There are wheels that will enable you to transport it quickly as it weighs 69 pounds.

The unit tends to leak, especially when it’s working at full force, so you must make sure that it’s not placed next to your gear.

PROS

  • Versatile unit that can be used to heat or cool the air.
  • Dual filtration to keep the air clean.
  • Saves your settings.
  • 24-hour timer.

CONS

  • Might leak.

Stay Cool While Camping

If you’re going camping in hot weather, buying a tent air conditioner will be the best investment to make. Even if it’s not scorching hot, after a long day of trekking and hiking, you need a cool tent where you can result for the night.

Most people tend to feel hot at night that it might deprive them of sleeping soundly. You might wake up feeling tired and unable to engage in fun activities with other campers.

While putting the tent in a shady place might help, it won’t do much to the humidity and the extra heat that might make the tent unbearable, especially at night.

Why Should You Buy the Best Tent Air Conditioner?

Although a tent air conditioner might be expensive, it’s an essential accessory that can make your outdoor adventure much more enjoyable. Here are some reasons why people should think about buying a portable conditioner for their camping trips.

  • A battery-powered or electric fan can be enough in moderately hot weather. However, some people are sensitive to the heat, and they need something more powerful, especially if the weather is extremely hot.
  • An air conditioner prevents the accumulation of water vapor that leads to discomfort and fatigue. As a result, you’ll always feel comfortable while spending time away from home.
  • Some people might not be able to sleep comfortably despite being tired because the tent might feel too hot at night. An air conditioner will solve this problem.
  • Staying safe while spending time away from home is crucial, especially when there’s no fast access to medical help. An air conditioner eliminates the risk of heat strokes that people might experience due to excessive loss of water from the body.
  • Air conditioners can decrease the humidity significantly in your tent, even when the temperature drops for a few degrees. This will allow your natural cooling system to work better as your body releases sweat to get rid of the extra heat.

What are the Types of Tent Air Conditioners Available?

When you’re shopping for a tent air conditioner, there are two types available that you should think about.

Window Air Conditioners

These are more suitable for bigger tents and extremely hot weather. Window air conditioners have a bigger cooling capacity, but they’re more challenging to install. You might need to make a few adjustments by cutting through the window or the door.

Portable Air Conditioners

These are easier to install and can be set up wherever you like. Nevertheless, you’ll need a reservoir that collects the water fast, especially on hot days when you’re likely to use the air conditioner more often. Portable units are more cumbersome and usually more expensive.

How to Choose the Best Tent Air Conditioner

To enjoy your camping adventure to the maximum, you must make sure that you’ve bought the right tent air conditioner. Here are some factors to think about before buying one.

Power

Remember that you’re in the wild, so you won’t have a centralized cooling system or easy access to an electric source. If you can’t pack a generator, then you should see that your campsite has an electrical hookup. Most tents have an E-port that allows you to power several electric devices, including an air conditioner.

If this is not possible, you should choose a battery-powered air conditioner. Battery-powered models don’t last that long, so you’ll need to pack extra batteries or a charger. Once the tent is cool enough, you can decrease the temperature of the air conditioner to help the battery last longer.

Battery-powered models are more suitable for smaller tents. If you’re spending time with a group of campers, an electric-powered air conditioner will be more appropriate.

Weight

The weight of the air conditioner isn’t a big issue when you’re installing one at home, but when you’re going camping, it will be. A smaller air conditioner might not be that powerful, but it will be easier to carry around. Generally speaking, window air conditioners are less cumbersome and can be carried easily.

BTUs

This refers to the power of the air conditioner and accordingly, how potent it will be at keeping your tent cool. Most tent air conditioners can cool an area between 50 to 250 square feet. For an average-sized tent that accommodates four people, you can go for an air conditioner that has 5000 BTUs.

If you go for a lower rating, the tent won’t be comfortable enough. You can choose a BTU of 6000, 8000, or more depending on the size of the tent and the weather condition.

Extra Features

Some additional features will make your tent air conditioner more practical and better to use. These include a timer that can be set up according to your preferences. It allows the air conditioner to shut itself off when you no longer need it so you can reserve the battery or save the power of the generator.

To enjoy your time more, some air conditioners come with remote controls. You can operate the air conditioner at a distance, whether you’re outside the tent or sleeping on your mattress.

Having multiple fan speeds is another big plus. While some people might be interested in the high speed, some campers might be bothered by the air blown directly in their direction. Being able to control this setting allows you to choose the most comfortable option.

Tips for Using a Tent Air Conditioner

Now that you’ve bought a suitable tent air conditioner, you want to make sure that you’re making the best of it. Here are some tips to help you use it better.

  • Make sure to clean the air filter regularly. The accumulation of dust and debris will affect the performance of the air conditioner and force it to work harder to keep your tent cool. You should also clean the evaporator and condenser fins.
  • If you’re connecting your air conditioner to a generator or other power source, you should make sure that the cord has no gaps in the insulation. It should also have the right power rating.
  • For your safety, unplug the unit if it starts to rain. Make sure that your hands are dry and that the air conditioner isn’t in contact with the wet ground. Cover the front panel to protect your unit from the rain.
  • The right setup will help you get the best of the air conditioner. Pitch your tent in the shade because the heat from the sun makes your unit’s job extremely challenging.
  • Other factors that affect the performance of your air conditioner include the number of people in the tent and its height. An underpowered unit is never a good option, even if it’s cheaper because you’ll eventually have to replace it.
  • Invest in some insulation to help your tent cool off faster. In most cases, the fabric of the tent keeps the heat trapped, so it’s common to feel hot inside. A space blanket reflects the heat to facilitate the job of the air conditioner.

Conclusion

A hot climate doesn’t have to ruin your camping trip as long as you’ve got a good tent air conditioner to back you up. We chose the hOmeLabs 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner as our top pick as it’s strong enough to regulate the temperature in a big tent. Moreover, it has a timer and remote control for maximum convenience.

If you’re looking for a unit that fits in a small or medium-sized tent, you’d better consider the Frigidaire FFRA0511R1E 5, 000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner. It cools the air and works as a dehumidifier. It won’t keep you awake at night, thanks to its silent operation.

Although some campers might think that having a tent air conditioner is a luxury, in some weather conditions, it’s inevitable. There’s nothing better than coming back to a cool comfortable tent when you’re done with all the hiking and trekking. Check out the products on our list, and you’ll find the right unit for you.

9 Of The Best Canvas Tents For Camping

canvas tent

If you’re in a hurry and just want to know what the best canvas tent is, then we recommend Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Deluxe as the best product.

A tent is your best friend while you’re out on a camping trip. It’s where you sleep at night and protect yourself from the harsh weather conditions.

Canvas tents are gaining a lot of attention due to their excellent properties. If you’re looking for the best canvas tent for your outdoor adventures, you’re in for a treat!

Today, I’ll be providing you with everything you need to know about canvas tents. Additionally, I’ll give you an insight into the best options that you can find out there!

Top 9 Canvas Tents That You Can Find in the Market

To simplify your search for a canvas tent, I’ve compiled a list of the best 9 canvas tents I could find that are available in the market.

The Flex-Bow is an all-round tent canvas tent with perfect accommodation space.

One of the aspects that make it stand above the competition is the high ceiling. It rocks a height of about 6 feet 6 inches. This outstanding height allows almost everyone inside to stand up and walk around freely without having to arch their backs.

The Kodiak Flex-Bow is made of excellent quality, cotton duck canvas. This means that it provides a great level of durability against cuts and tears compared to other canvas tents.

The canvas is also made with Hydrashield technology. This keeps the canvas fabric as watertight as possible while staying breathable and provides a healthy airflow.

Not only does the flex-bow frame keep the tent stretched, but it also makes it surprisingly simple to set up the tent. It would take one person a few minutes to set the whole tent up on his own.

The tent comes with two large doors and 4 windows with a mesh to keep your privacy. It features a large awning and can withstand the elements of weather.

PROS

  • High ceiling
  • Features large windows with a mesh
  • Large space

CONS

  • A bit heavy
  • Has a strong chemical smell in the first couple of weeks

Finding a tent that offers a wide interior space without being a burden to set up isn’t a walk in the park. However, the Sierra canvas tent from Teton Sports offers this feature in style.

The first impression you’ll get about this tent is that it’s a breeze to set up. The tent comes with two poles that help you to get it up and ready in a short time.

It comes with a large door that opens widely. Thanks to the carbon steel stakes, you can set the tent on any surface no matter how irregular or rough it can be.

Moreover, all the seams on the tent are double stitched. This adds to the durability and longevity of the tent, all the while preventing the water from creeping its way through.

The tent comes with a 19-ounce welded floor that’s leak-proof allows for a safe barefoot experience. Fortunately, you can remove that floor to turn the tent into an amazing canopy. This makes this tent a great value for your money.

Although some users complained about missing parts, the support team was highly responsive and helpful. This adds a layer of security to your purchase.

PROS

  • You can turn it into a canopy
  • Durable carbon steel stakes
  • Multiple size options to choose from

CONS

  • Some users reported missing parts
  • Lacks a power cord opening

Are you looking for a canvas tent that you can count on throughout the seasons of the year?  This canvas bell tent from Danchel is your way to go.

The canvas tent is designed to repel heavy pours of water. However, it stays highly breathable and allows the air to flow in and out.

The bell tent gets its support form a sturdy pole in the center, making it easy to set up and disassemble. Additionally, you won’t have a problem loading or unloading your gear, as it comes with a door pole that supports the entrance of the tent.

One of the things that make Danchel Canvas tent special is that you can also use it in extreme cold. If you need to add a stove to your tent, Danchel covers that with a stove jacket opening on both sides of the tent.

The great thing is that these windows come with a flap, so you can shut them off when not in use.

Another awesome feature that Danchel’s canvas tent has is the mesh storage bag that comes with the tent. You can use this bag to store your valuables for easy access, such as your car keys.

PROS

  • Comes with two stove jackets for extreme cold
  • Designed to prevent insects from coming in
  • 5-year warranty

CONS

  • Zippers are hard to operate

This tent from Stout is a wonderful example of how multifunctional a canvas bell tent can be. It can serve you on hot summer days and freezing snowy weather. The bell tent is made of a durable canvas that prevents leakage of water while raining.

Also, the aeration on this model makes it ideal for good weather, so you don’t have to worry about ventilation inside the tent. It comes with mesh doors and windows to keep insects out.

This makes it an ideal option if you’re looking for a good balance between comfort and protection.

Unlike many models in the market, this one comes with a stove opening. It has a diameter of about 5 inches, so it can meet the standards of stove chimneys. This means you can be cozy and warm inside the tent while it’s freezing outside.

When you don’t need the stove jack, you can cover it with a flap to prevent water from leaking into your tent.

The tent also comes with a groundsheet that you can zip it in and out. This enables you to remove the floor sheet and roll up the walls, so you can turn your bell tent into a lovely canopy.

PROS

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Available in different shapes and sizes
  • Detachable groundsheet

CONS

  • Heavy compared to its size

If you’re looking for a canvas tent that can fit up to 12 people inside comfortably, you need to check this one out. The tent is shaped like a yurt for maximum utilization of space inside the tent.

The HappyBuy is a made out of premium canvas that’s treated to become waterproof. This helps in preventing the rainwater from leaking into your tent.

The canvas tent is fortified by double stitching it seams. This adds to its durability and its ability to withstand the elements of weather, such as strong wind and snow. Additionally, the stitch seams are taped to keep the water outside where it should be.

In addition to stitching, the tent comes with powerful steel poles and galvanized frame tubes. These sturdy parts support the tent and help it stand the test of outdoor camping. The bell tent also allows you to install a stove inside to keep yourself warm.

In addition to all these qualities, the tent comes with a mesh screen door and multiple windows. These. This allows you to extend the level of interior ventilation while camping in summer. Additionally, you can roll up the walls to enjoy a 5-meter canopy for summer picnics.

PROS

  • Highly durable structure
  • Taped stitches for watertight build
  • Excellent for all seasons
  • Huge interior space

CONS

  • Some parts are treated with fire retardants
  • The stove jack is a bit low

For those who enjoy camping in their own trucks, it’s hard to find a truck tent that’s made of canvas. However, Kodiak offers the solution with its brilliant canvas truck tent. Let’s have a look at it and see what it has got to offer.

Similar to most Kodiak tents, this one is made with the HydraSheild technology. This technology treats the cotton canvas to become watertight while allowing for a comfortable flow of air inside the tent.

The tent is designed to fit most pickup trucks models, so you won’t have to worry about it fitting your vehicle. The list of trucks it fits includes but not limited to:

The canvas tent extends the size of your truck bed beyond its original space. The tailgate expands to utilize the space behind your vehicle, so you can fit in more.

Unfortunately, the tent is large enough to let it stand up inside. However, you can sit and sleep inside comfortably with a room for an additional person as well. The canvas truck tent is an affordable alternative that works very well for short camping trips.

PROS

  • Highly affordable
  • Fits a lot of truck models
  • Extends the space of your truck bed

CONS

  • Limited applications

White Duck is one of the most reputable tentmakers. Their tents are known to have great quality while being reasonably priced, and this one is no exception.

The tent comes in a wide variety of sizes, so you can choose the one that fits you the most. The size ranges can take between 6 and up to 10 persons inside the tent. This makes it one of the best options for outdoor activities with family and friends.

The canvas tent comes with YKK zippers. These military-grade zippers are known for their outstanding durability.

White Duck also offers the tent in two finishes, allowing you to choose between waterproof finish only or with fire retardants too. That’s great news for those who like to keep things as natural as possible.

The canvas tent comes with a stove jack. The opening is coated with silicone to make it resistant to heat.

Additionally, the anodized aluminum frame also gives you sturdy walls that block the elements of the weather.

PROS

  • Fire-repellent materials are optional
  • Multiple interior sizes
  • Durable zippers

CONS

  • Though easy to set up, it doesn’t come with instructions

This tent is a superb option for all the lone wolves that enjoy camping in the wilderness. The Swag Canvas tent is a 1-person tent that packs a lot of features for a surprisingly affordable price.

With this budget-friendly tent, you can enjoy the excellent quality of Kodiak’s canvas. It comes with the same heavily woven canvas that you can find in its high-end models.

The tent is highly resistant to water and insulates your body against the cold. However, it stays highly breathable compared to untreated canvas.

The canvas tent is only 20 pounds. This makes it relatively lightweight and highly portable. Additionally, it won’t take up a huge space and weigh you down as much. You can also fit it in its bag nicely when it isn’t in use.

The tent also comes with a comfortable mattress pad and a soft flannel cover, so you can enjoy a good sleep inside the tent.

PROS

  • Comes with a mattress pad and a cover
  • Portable
  • Budget-friendly
  • water-resistant

CONS

  • You can’t stand up inside the tent

Last but not least. This Premium & Breathable bell tent from White Duck is among the best yurt shaped canvas tents in the market.

Their canvas fabric is made entirely of pure cotton. This gives the tent a breathable finish, which prevents the inner walls of the tent from condensation moisture. The tent is also available in a fire retardant treated finish.

It comes with a wide door and four ventilation vents to keep the aeration inside the tent. The center and entrance are supported by galvanized steel poles. These poles give the tent a high level of durability against the wind.

All the openings are covered with screen meshes to keep the insects out. All the windows and the door are double layered to provide the tent with extra fortification.

They also have durable steel zippers. This keeps your zippers intact for long years, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them. The tent also features a stove jack and power outlet, so you can charge your gear while staying warm inside.

PROS

  • Sturdy galvanized steel poles
  • Strategically-placed vents
  • Stylish yurt design
  • Available in fire retardant finish

CONS

  • The groundsheet isn’t detachable

What Are the Benefits of Canvas Tents Against other Types?

Tents are made of a variety of materials, including canvas, polyester, nylon, and more. Canvas tents are one of the earliest forms of tents. Despite being old, it still has some unique features that many competitor materials don’t have.

Let’s have a look at some of the aspects that give the canvas an advantage against other materials.

Breathability

Breathability is among the brightest highlights of canvas fabric. Canvas is made of natural materials, such as cotton, hemp, flax, and others.

That’s why it has a better airflow compared to other synthetic materials. Since it’s highly breathable, you should never experience condensation in the inner walls of the tent.

Durability and Longevity

Unlike other materials like polyester and nylon, canvas fabric is sturdier and lasts a lot longer. The fabric doesn’t deteriorate easily by the factors of weather. In other words, it’s going to take you a lot of years before you need to replace the canvas tent

The secret behind its durability isn’t the material. In fact, cotton by itself isn’t stronger than nylon or polyester. However, the way canvas fabric is woven so tightly makes it exponentially tougher than them.

Year-Round Service

 As you can notice, canvas fabric has all the properties that make it great for all seasons. It’s heavily woven, which also boosts insulation. This allows it to keep you warm in winter.

The fabric is also highly breathable. This enables the tents to circulate the air efficiently, so it can keep the tent interior cooler on hot summer days.

Promotes Easier Sleep

Think of it this way. If you’re sleeping in the wild, there’s enough noise to keep you up at night.

Unlike other materials,  the heavy nature of canvas tents prevents it from flapping as much as lighter materials. Adds this to the breathability and insulation, and you’ve got yourself a quieter and more peaceful environment to sleep.

Things to Look for Before Choosing your Ideal Canvas Tent

While shopping for a canvas tent, there are some qualities that you need to know more about. Let’s have a brief overview of each one of them.

Size and Overall Weight

There are a wide variety of sizes that you can choose from. The bigger the tent, the heavier it’ll be. That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re getting a size that suits you, your gear, and your company.

As a rule of thumb, a canvas tent should be enough for at least 4 people. Luckily most sellers post the dimensions of their tents, so you won’t have a hard time finding the right one for you.

Stove Window

If you like camping in winter, you might be subjected to extreme cold. In that case, you might need to install a stove for your tent.

You need to make sure that the tent has a dedicated jacket for a stove that meets the size of the industrial standards. For example, Stout Canvas Tent

Floor Sheet

It’s important to make sure that the tent comes with a durable sheet that covers the entire floor. This allows you to walk barefooted inside the tent and keeps your feet dry.

However, detachable floor sheets are a great bonus. They allow you to roll up the walls and turn the tent into a canopy, which is great for extra-breeze in summer. You can find this in Teton Sports Tent.

User-Friendliness

There’s no point in having a tent that’s a nightmare to set up. Make sure that the tent comes with durable frames and beams. Also, make sure that it comes with clear instructions on how to set it up.

Windows and Doors

For better ventilation, it’s important that the tent has a wide variety of zipper windows and doors. This also makes it easier to load your tent with gear. These openings should be covered with mesh screens to keep the insects out day and night.

Problems with Canvas Tents

Here are some examples of the problems you might get with canvas tents.

Weight

Canvas is known for being heavier than most other tent materials. However, modernized canvas tents are significantly lighter in weight than the old ones while staying as durable.

Weathering

Canvas tents are usually made of canvas sheets stitched together tightly. The points where the canvas is stitched are usually wider and need to shrink.

Price

Since they provide a year-round experience and last for years to come, canvas tents are pricier than other materials. You won’t need to replace it quickly though, which makes it a long-term investment.

Wrap Up

Finding a canvas tent that suits your needs is essential, so you can enjoy your outdoor trips and camping adventures.

When I think of a great canvas tent, it needs to be spacious enough to fit my gear. Additionally, it should be watertight and prevent the water from seeping in. That’s why I picked Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Deluxe as the best canvas tent.

However, if you’re looking for a multifunctional alternative, you can go for my runner up for this round. The Stout Canvas Bell Tent

It comes with a stove window that lets you install a stove for the snowy days. Not only that, but you can also roll up the walls and turn it into a summer canopy.

Best Cabin Tents For The Comfortable Camping Experience

cabin tents

Are you planning to spend a lot of time camping within a large group of people? We chose the Coleman Prairie Breeze Lighted Cabin Tent, 9-Person as the best cabin tent as it provides comfortable accommodation for a group of 9. It comes with a built-in LED light and a fan system so you can enjoy your camping trip to the maximum.

The cabin tents provide comfy accommodation that you can share with others. These tents combine coziness with safety, so you can enjoy your time to the maximum. Here is a list of cabin tents we are reviewing:

Reviews of the Best Cabin Tents

Although cabin tents take a longer time to set up and take down, they come with a list of benefits that none of the other models provide. Check out our top picks to find the right cabin tent.

Share your relaxing accommodation with other campers as this one is designed to fit up to 9 people. It comes fully equipped with everything that would make your experience more comfortable. It has a built-in LED light and a fan system to regulate the temperature inside the tent.

Despite its significant size, the tent comes with instant clip suspension and snag-free poles for effortless setup. It might take 10 minutes if you’re setting it up with a friend and about half an hour if you’re doing it on your own.

Inside the tent, the Weathertec system will regulate the temperature and keep you at ease. It comes with a rainfly that protects you and your gear from getting wet if the weather changes.

The tent is big enough to fit 2 queen-sized air beds with lots of gear that you would need on an extended camping trip. The E-port allows you to extend a power cord so you can use several devices inside your tent for more convenience and comfort.

Featuring oversized windows, you can enjoy the views and experience better airflow. The built-in light is activated by an illuminated wall switch that you can see in the dark. You can set the light for high, low, and nightlight mode. The light operates on 4 D-cell batteries or a rechargeable cartridge.

Inverted seams increase the weather resistance, and the zippers feature a unique cuff that keeps your stuff dry. Welding-inspired technology increases the durability of the tent and eliminates needle holes. The tent weighs 36 pounds and measures 14 x 10 x 7 feet.

It shouldn’t be set up extremely windy weather. However, if you’re going camping in the spring, summer, or autumn, this should be the right one for you.

PROS

  • Fits 2 queen-sized air beds.
  • Built-in LED light and fan system.
  • Better ventilation.
  • Fast setup.
  • Weather-proof construction.

CONS

  • Not suitable for extremely windy weather.

A bigger cabin tent means that you’ll have enough room for more campers and all their belongings. This is an excellent choice for a long camping trip because you won’t feel restricted. The tent measures 16 X 7 X 6.2 feet so you can move and stand comfortably.

The size of the tent is enough to accommodate 3 queen airbeds, so you can have enough room for all your camping gear. It sets up in 15 minutes or less despite its size so you can start enjoying your time right away.

If you’re not an avid camper, this tent will work for you. It comes with color-coded poles and sleeves for easy and fast assembly.

Easy access is guaranteed by the hinged door, and the polyester taffeta 75D flysheet protects your gear from the rain. The windows auto roll when you unzip them and can open with an angle to light up the interior without letting any rain in when the weather changes. It’s an excellent choice for camping in hot and wet weather as it stays cool in the summer and dry in winter.

You’ll have a built-in LED light that can be adjusted to high, low, and nightlight mode. The tent comes in three different colors and weighs 27.4 pounds.

Thanks to the welded floor and inverted seams, your gear will stay dry regardless of the weather. The fly is a little bit tricky to put on, though. The raised door design can be a bit challenging, as you might trip as you’re getting in and out of the tent.

PROS

  • Sturdy tent.
  • Easy and fast assembly.
  • Works for all weather conditions.
  • Roomy tent.
  • Built-in LED light.

CONS

  • You might trip if you’re not careful while getting inside due to the raised design of the door.

This is an excellent cabin tent that works if you’re camping with your family. It can be set up in 60 seconds by 2 people, but 1 person can also do the job easily. It measures 8 X 8 X 4.9 feet, weighs 16.75 pounds, and is big enough to fit an airbed mattress and all your gear.

Made of durable 68D polyester and supported by telescoping steel poles, it can withstand all weather and camping challenges. The poles come already attached, allowing your tent to pop up in a matter of seconds. The color-coding also guarantees that you can attach the fly properly in no time.

The PU taping for the rainfly seam and inner seam protect your gear from the rain. It’s an excellent choice for camping in heavy rain because it’s weather-proof. The tent comes with a carry bag for storage, stakes, mud mat, gear pockets, and gear loft. There’s an electric port that allows you to connect your devices to an electrical power source. It fully closes when it’s not in use.

Thanks to the upgraded ventilation system of the mesh roof and vented ground, you won’t feel hot when you’re spending time in the tent. The ventilation system guarantees that there will be no condensation inside.

There are windows on all sides, making it an excellent choice for hot weather. You can also remove the fly at night to watch the night sky.

You might start to see some holes in the fabric if you’re not careful with the poles. This is a 4-person tent, but it will be too crowded. You’d better use it for 2 or 3 people who will have enough space for their camping gear.

PROS

  • Compact cabin tent.
  • Setup time is 60 seconds.
  • Rainfly with color-coding for fast attachment.
  • Improved ventilation system.

CONS

  • Will be too crowded for 4 people.
  • Fabric isn’t that thick.

If you’re going on a romantic camping trip, this will be the right tent to pick. It’s designed to accommodate up to 10 people, but a fewer number of people can use it to have more space for their gear. It measures 14 X 10 X 6.7 feet, so it’s big enough to accommodate 4-sized air beds.

Although this is a huge tent, it can be set up in 60 seconds for an enjoyable experience. It comes with dividers that allow you to customize your space for added privacy. The dividers will enable you to customize the area so you can organize your gear comfortably.

Thanks to the dark-room technology, this tent blocks up to 90% of the sunlight, so you can sleep in even after the sunrise. Unlike other tents, the construction reduces the trapped heat, so you will feel relaxed and comfortable.

If you’re going wandering at night, you’ll easily spot the tent thanks to the reflective seams. The tent is weather-proof with welded corners and inverted seams to keep the interior dry.

It comes with a rainfly for extra protection from the rain. The frame is strong enough to withstand up to 35 mph of wind, and the heavy-duty poly guard fabric will stay in good shape.

When it’s time to head home, the tent easily fits into a carry bag that expands with a rip-strip to provide extra storage space. It features a hinged door for fast access and weighs around 50 pounds when shipped.

Being quite heavy, this one isn’t suitable for backpacking. Having one door might be a bit restricting, given the number of people that can fit inside the tent.

PROS

  • Spacious cabin tent that can accommodate up to 10 people.
  • Instant setup by a single person.
  • Dark-room technology to block up to 90% of the sunlight.
  • Welded floor and inverted seams for weather protection.
  • Can withstand the wind.

CONS

  • One-door access.
  • Difficult to move around.

Setting this tent up won’t take more than seconds as it comes with all the poles already attached. The telescoping steel supports the cabin tent in all weather conditions. It can fit up to 2 queen-sized air beds and up to 9 people with all their gear. It measures 14 X 9 X 6.5 feet when it’s set up, and comes with a rainfly, stakes, and a carry bag.

This tent comes with detachable room dividers so you can customize the interior space. Moreover, there are several storage pockets so you can keep your essentials for easy retrieval.

The Core H2O technology keeps the interior dry in all weather conditions. You can also adjust the ground vent. This will improve the airflow as the cool air gets into the tent, and the hot air escapes through the mesh ceiling to keep you more comfortable in warm weather. Moreover, the mesh ceiling allows you to enjoy the views of the sun and stars whenever you want.

The tent features an E-port that allows you to use electric devices with no issues. When it’s not used, the port seals completely to keep the tent and your gear dry. The rainfly features a wide tape that holds it in place to resist heavy rain and wind.

Heat-sealed seams will keep the water outside, even if you’re taking the rainfly down. The tent features a large T-door that won’t feel restricting. It weighs 30.5 pounds and folds to a compact size.

The floor material might be a bit thin, so you should keep sharp objects away. You should be careful with the zippers as they’re prone to jamming.

PROS

  • Instant setup with attached poles.
  • Ground vents to improve the airflow.
  • E-port to operate your electric devices.
  • Detachable dividers.
  • Folds to a compact size.

CONS

  • Zippers tend to stick and jam.

Why Should You Buy a Cabin Tent?

  • Just as the name suggests, a cabin tent is more of a cabin than a tent. It’s more comfortable with almost vertical walls.
  • More space is available inside. This makes it a better option for bigger groups. The tent can also be divided into separate rooms or sections for more privacy or to organize your stuff.
  • Most cabin tents come with dividers that you can use to customize the interior space and setup of the tent according to your needs and the number of people sleeping inside.
  • The near-vertical walls give you to the room to stand and even walk comfortably inside the tent. Most taller campers usually feel uncomfortable inside smaller tents where they have to bend. A cabin tent provides more space, so you can enjoy your outdoor adventure more.

When Should You Use a Cabin Tent?

If you’re going hiking or backpacking, a cabin tent won’t work for you because it will be rather bulky and difficult to move around. This tent is an excellent choice if you’re spending some time at a campground with other campers who want to break free from everyday stress. The cabin tent is the right option if you’re planning to stay in the same spot for a long time.

Before you take it to the wild, it’s a good idea to try to set it up in your backyard. This practice will come in handy when you’re attempting it to set it up for your fun adventure outside.

Doing this before your trip will also tell you if you’ve got all the necessary tools that you need for assembly so you can be better prepared. You don’t want your camping adventure to end before it begins.

If you decided to end your adventure because of an expected storm, you should unfold it once you reach home and set it up to dry. Storing a wet tent will damage the fabric and the seams.

How to Choose the Best Cabin Tent

Cabin tents aren’t lightweight. Nevertheless, they provide comfortable accommodation for outdoor lovers wherever they choose to set them up.

Choosing the right tent can make or break your upcoming camping trip. Here are a few features to think about.

Capacity

The first thing you should consider is how many people can fit inside your tent. You don’t want to end up with a tent that feels too crowded because this will make everyone go through an unpleasant experience.

At the same time, bigger isn’t always better. A big tent is usually more cumbersome, so carrying it around would be a little challenging. Generally speaking, setting up a cabin tent on your own isn’t an easy task.

Make sure that there’s extra room available inside your tent. Sleeping in sleeping bags isn’t like putting an air mattress for more comfort. You should also think about the stuff you carry around, including necessities, food, clothes, and cooking equipment.

For example, if you’re choosing a 4-person cabin tent for a group of 4 campers, you shouldn’t expect to have all your gear inside. Moreover, the tent will be crowded and might feel a little restricting. If you need more space, you might need to size up, but you’ll have to carry the extra weight of the tent.

You should also think about the size of the tent when it’s folded. It should fit into your car easily, and you must have enough space to store it at home when you get back.

Height

One of the main benefits of a cabin tent is the ability to stand, stretch, and even walk comfortably. This is a big plus, especially for taller people who don’t feel that comfortable in smaller tents.

The height in the center of the tent is crucial because this is where you can hang a fan or lights. Make sure that the tent doesn’t sit too low, so you can move easily.

Assembly

If you’re going to set the tent up and take it down on your own, you want to stick to an instant tent. This will be easy and convenient to use wherever you are. However, most instant tents are designed for a smaller number of people, so they won’t work if you’re going camping with a big group of outdoor lovers.

Instant tents come with the poles attached, so you don’t have much work to do. However, bigger tents require more work. You need to make sure that your tent comes with all the tools required for assembly. Once you’re done, you should be able to disassemble your tent comfortably for secure storage.

Number of Rooms

This refers to how you can utilize the interior space inside the tent. A cabin tent usually comes with dividers that allow you to customize the area inside the tent for multiple purposes.

If several people are sharing the tent, dividers will help create some personal space for each camper for privacy and organization. Even if you’re spending time alone in the tent, you would be able to separate your gear and food from your sleeping area to keep your belongings well-organized.

Construction

Be careful while shopping for a tent because a very cheap one will be a waste of money. You need to make sure that the tent is made of durable material that can withstand heavy-duty use. The fabric should be UV-resistant, so it doesn’t lose its durability with time.

Moreover, the seams should be tight to prevent water from getting into the tent in the dawn or while it’s raining outside. If you’re not camping in the summer, you should make sure that your cabin tent comes with a practical rainfly for extra protection.

Some tents have a special coating that covers the walls and floor. This will guarantee that the interior and all your gear will stay dry, regardless of the condition of the weather.

Breathability

Things can get quite hot inside the tent if it’s not well-ventilated. You should make sure that there are enough windows that would allow for proper airflow so you can sit comfortably. Windows should be covered with mesh and come with zippers to protect you from bugs at night.  

A mesh roof is an excellent option, especially if you’re going camping in hot weather. It also allows for some cool star gazing at night.

Door

The size and location of the door will affect how comfortable your tent will be, especially if you’re sharing it with others. A big cabin tent should have more than one entrance, allowing more people to access it comfortably without disturbing others.

Conclusion

The best cabin tents represent the perfect outdoor shelter for a group of friends or the whole family. Forget about feeling uncomfortable or restricted because these tents allow you to move and sleep comfortably while keeping all your gear within reach.

We chose the Coleman Prairie Breeze Lighted Cabin Tent, 9-Person as our top choice because it’s big enough to fit all your gear. It’s weather-resistant and comes with some built-in accessories that make your outdoor adventure more enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a smaller option, you can check out the  OT QOMOTOP Camping Tent, 4- Person 60 Seconds Set Up. It sets up in 1 minute and features an excellent ventilation system.

We recommend that you take a look at the points we’ve listed as they will help you choose the right cabin tent for you. All the options on our list are well-made, reasonably priced, and built to last.

Best Tent for High Winds and Hail

camping high winds

As much as each and every one of us hopes for it, not every camping day is going to be sunny, calm and filled with perfect weather conditions. If you’re camping in the real world, you’re bound to have some off-days on camping trips.

While all companies will proudly proclaim that their tents can withstand two earthquakes and a tornado to beat, we all know that this is simply not true. However, there are definitely some great tents in the market which will do the perfect job of protecting you in case you meet some serious winds on your camping trip.

Those below are our top picks which can help you choose the best tent for high winds!

Our Top Picks

Below you’ll find a list of some of the best tents in the market. Our  review will also include the pros and cons of each tent so your selection process can run as smoothly as possible.

Teton is a versatile, durable and lightweight tent. It basically checks off most of the things every seasoned camper would want in a tent.

This type of tent is designed specifically for hardcore campers who know exactly what they’ll be up against – weather-wise. High winds are child play for these people.

Its versatility is shown in its different types. It comes in four different sizes, starting with the small one-person tent, all the way to the spacious 4-person one. Giving you the freedom to choose the size of the tent that suits your needs.

This very-well designed tent comes with a serious rainfly that prevents water very efficiently. It also comes with built-in vents that are designed to keep the interior cool during the summer’s hot and humid weather.

PROS

  • Durable
  • Leakage Proof
  • Easy to set-up
  • Lightweight
  • Variety in sizes

CONS

  • Sometimes liable to capsizing
  • Tent pegs are susceptible to bending
  • Zippers can be hard to close
  • Ventilation can be weak

This durable tent can be one of the largest tents sold. It comes in two varieties, six, and eight-person. This is a fairly great tent if you’re a big family; the extra space certainly won’t go to waste and will come in handy!

With its high quality 75D polyester taffeta; the Coleman Evanston tent is definitely the kind of tent that leaves an impression only a next-generation camping gear can.

Shaped like a bathtub, with a patented floor made of 100D polyethylene tarp-type material, this unique shape combined with the material reduces all chances of groundwater seeping through the floor.

This dome-style tent blends construction, structure, and sustainability in an unusual way. 4 fiberglass poles made from 11 mm high-voltage, two curtain windows D-shaped zippered entrance on the deck. The two main poles are solid and designed to hold the main body of the tent while the legs carry the flap.

One of the unique things about this tent is the distinctive porch that’s situated in the front part of the tent. It gives you the opportunity to enjoy nature all around you without the risk of having annoying pesky bugs swarm you.

PROS

  • Huge capacity, suitable for big families
  • Water-resistant
  • Easy to assemble
  • Travel-friendly
  • Good ventilation

CONS

  • Users complained about the quality
  • Zippers sometimes refused to zip completely
  • Cheap mesh on windows
  • Rainfly isn’t big enough to cover the screened area
  • Flooding is imminent due to the size of rainfly  

The Kelty Outback Tent is quite a good tent if one’s looking for an affordable option that can hold its own against strong winds, without breaking the back.

The wind protection in this tent can be attributed to the tough poles and the guy lines in the tent. When you combine these with the sturdy, good quality stakes, winds are no longer a problem.

Another interesting part of this tent lies in the design; its higher bathtub design prevents rain, damage, and drafts from reaching your tent.

It’s quite simple to assemble, and, to make things a lot easier, they color-coded the poles so as to ensure that you won’t get into serious problems when constructing the tent.

Furthermore, one other great aspect of this tent, is how roomy it is. Compared to other tents that offer just about the same sleep count, the Kelty Outback tent is pretty spacious; it has three varieties you can choose from the 2, 4, and 6-person tents.

While extra space is always a coveted feature, it might come at a certain expense, the taller the tent’s height, the higher the probability that it will catch the wind.

PROS

  • Pretty Affordable for its features
  • Offers great waterproofing
  • Easy to set-up
  • Has strong poles and guy lines – effective for wind protection
  • Spacious

CONS

  • Has only one door
  • The Bigger versions can sometimes catch wind
  • The zipper might not zip all the way

Considered as a very stable and great option for people who go car camping, the Browning Camping Glacier Tent is a spacious tent that can fit up to four people. Its high durability can be attributed to the very good quality of its materials, making it a tent that can last for years. It’s also very simple to set-up.

This Tent comes in a traditional dome-style shape. After setting it up for the first time, the tent reaches 72 inches in height. A rather considerable size that will be able to hold itself well against high wind. With 2 doors and vestibules roll up, the tent is very secure. The tent is sturdy and long-lasting.

This campsite tent can hold its own for three seasons plus. For ventilation, the ceiling has a mesh part; this is quite an advantage because it allows fresh air to enter the tent. Nonetheless, it’s still not so wide so the tent can maintain warmth.

The tent structure also helps in resisting the wind from any direction. Other features of the tent include it being; sturdy, long-lasting and double-layered.

This particular tent is pretty tough and can withstand heavy winds as well as some snow and even a rainstorm. It also comes with a rainfly which is a great addition to any tent since it helps shield you from the rain, wind and in extreme cases; snow.

The tent itself is divided into two rooms and it weighs about 20 lbs, with 6 feet of center height.

PROS

  • Full Coverage Fly
  • Two Doors
  • Can withstand heavy winter conditions
  • Two large vestibules

CONS

  • Is Pretty Pricey
  • Heavy – Not suitable for people who hike
  • No Vents on the fly

Another tent that easily withstands high winds and rain but also won’t cost you an arm and leg is the Slumber-Jack trail tent.

This smaller tent gives a lot of features considering its lower price. This tent can hold up to four people and is designed for 3 season use. Despite that, it might be able to withstand some basic winter conditions.

This tent is perfect for car camping trips, camping weekends or short bush trips. Since it is not as light as other tents, for long hiking trips, this is not the most suitable tent

If you can carry a tent weighing 11 lbs. on your back for a long walking trip as a whole, then definitely put this tent into consideration.

It has 2 doors and 2 different waterproof vestibule areas, which is perfect if you want to put backpacks and other loose things in your tent. The fiberglass poles are very solid, there are also two horizontal poles for greater stability.

During high winds, these fiberglass poles secure the tent quite well. This tent comes in two varieties: a 2-person or 6-person tent. The sloping contour and outline allow the wind to slide off, also the stakes are all right, but you might want to upgrade them to ones with better quality.

PROS

  • Great value
  • Good waterproofing
  • Strong poles and structure for wind

CONS

  • May want to upgrade stakes
  • The material tends to tear easily
  • Not the best choice for long hiking trips, unless you split the weight between 2-3 people

This versatile tent is the pinnacle of tents when it comes to withstanding the worst weather conditions ever, while, for instance, mountaineering or rock climbing.

It’s easy to set-up, offers bombproof storm protection and is of somewhat decent weight considering all these factors.

This particular tent is made climbing high altitudes, and/or mountaineering. It does, however, have a few disadvantages, this tent can be considered somewhat expensive, and it also can be a little bit less comfortable to sleep in if we’re putting other tents in the market into consideration.

However, this tent is specifically made to cater to campers who love going on expeditions in extreme weather. It’s a 4-season, two-person tent and it’s quite spacious for its size and has plenty of floor space.

It’s lightweight for its type, and it has one entrance as well as a vestibule made specifically for storing gear.

PROS

  • Durable
  • Stable
  • Real Travel-friendly
  • Built for Extreme weather
  • Good ventilation
  • Leakage proof

CONS

  • Pricey
  • Can be considered small in size
  • Uncomfortable to sleep in, compared to other tents

How to Choose the Best High-Wind Tent

Since there are a lot of tents in the market, we know that this process can be pretty tedious, especially if you want something that’s guaranteed to work.

Usage

If you’re a family looking for a huge tent that can hold its own against high wind, then you must look for one that’s spacious enough to accommodate the members of your family. Those tents are usually quite heavy and they’re not made for solo travelers or people who enjoy hiking.

Budget

You also need to ask yourself whether you’re willing to invest a lot of money when buying or not. Some of those tents, especially the ones that offer a lot of features can be pretty pricey.

Therefore, make sure you know your budget and how much exactly you’re willing to spend before liking a certain tent that costs more than you bargained for.

Shape

Like many things, tents also come in multiple shapes. Each one comes with certain pros and cons that you should consider.

The most familiar is the A-frame or ridged tents. If you ask a kid to draw you a tent, this is the shape he’ll most likely go for. These tents aren’t as popular as they were back in the day, for good reason, because these tents aren’t the most durable.

The most popular shapes people go for, are the Dome-styled, and the Tunnel tent. These two come with enough headroom and are pretty stable when met with strong winds.

Portability

A factor that you must consider as well is portability. Some tents are specifically designed for car-camping trips. These tents tend to be on the heavier side and can be particularly hard to carry for an extended period of time.

Bigger tents are generally heavier, while smaller ones tend to be the opposite. It wholly depends however, on the material used. The material plays a huge part in regards to the weight factor.

Besides that, some tents can also be on the heavy side if they come with specific features. You also have to count for the weight of the poles, stakes and anything else that comes with the tent.

How Much Wind can a Tent Withstand?

It really depends, but upon research, it’s safe to say that a season 3 tent can easily withstand up to 35 mph winds. A particularly good high wind tent would be able to hold its own against winds up to 40-45 mph.

There are two other things that also play a role in this, tent positioning and stake positioning.

Tent Positioning

There are many ways to position a tent, but the most scientific method is to position it against the direction of the prevailing wind. This method, however, is quite tedious and it requires data that can take a year or more.

The safest choice for positioning is to the east. Almost all seasoned campers go for this option. This one has a slight advantage to it; you can watch the sunrise nearly every morning!

Positioning the tent to the east makes the sunshine fall directly on your tent. This is one of the best selling points of adjusting your tent to the east.

Stake Positioning

Stake positioning plays a huge role in the tent’s stability and its ability to withstand wind. Plenty of things can be done to ensure that the tent’s stakes are positioned well.

One of these things is to ensure that the guy lines are tied well. Tying these really helps give the tent structure and it also helps in expanding the interior area of the tent.

Another thing to do is to stake the corner guy lines at an angle. If you placed the guy lines at, say, 45°-angle from the corner, you will then be able to pull the line taught, thus allowing maximum room capacity in the tent. This also ensures that the tent remains waterproof once the wind picks up.

How Exactly Can a Tent be Strong Against the Wind?

Technically speaking, any good brand of tents will produce ones that can handle winds pretty well. There are however some aspects that you should consider, and that play an active role against high winds.

Durability

You’ll be able to assess how durable your tent is by checking out its price and weight. Durable tents tend to be on the pricey side, and they tend to be a little heavy. The more expensive your tent, the more durable it will be, up to a certain point.

Another point you should keep in mind when assessing durability is the material used. Each material requires specific treatment or care. Polyurethane fabric, or PU coating, for instance, requires you to keep the tent dry and clean when you’re storing it.

Also consider checking out the Denier or (D) which is the unit of measuring the weight and thickness of the threads used in the tent. The higher the Denier unit, the stronger, thicker and heavier the tent will be.

Durability is known to depend on the thickness and powerfulness of the tent’s fabric and threads. So keep that thought in mind when purchasing a tent.

Stability

The stability of your tent depends on its shape, its poles quality and how the guy lines are positioned as well as the quality of the stakes.

Stakes that are a bit longer than average are the ones you should look for. The stakes that usually come with a tent are made from metal alloy. These stakes, while cheap and lightweight, tend to get lost easily or damaged.

The best stakes to use are the steel ones. Go for the galvanized ones; these are quite heavy but they last long and are pretty durable. Stakes are extremely important, as these are what hold the tent to the ground, so ensure that the ones you choose will remain securely in place.

Also, remember this, the more guy lines, the better!

Rainfly, Mesh, and Bathtub Floor

While these can be slightly less important and have less emphasis on the tent, you should still consider them and they still count where it matters.

The rain fly, for instance, has to reach till the ground, if it isn’t, you’re setting yourself up for a long night where the wind will be billowing underneath the rainfly and your tent will end-up being a parachute.

Also, the more mesh, the more drafty your tent will be, especially in windy conditions. While the bathtub floor is always talked about when it comes to waterproofing, it also helps prevent drafts, so it’s a good addition to any tent.

Conclusion

For two-person tents, our personal choice would be the Hilleberg Jannu Tent. It’s small, practical and is a personal favorite to many experienced campers.

Our ideal multi-person tent would be the Kelty Outback tent. This tent is pretty versatile in its sizes, it comes in three different ones. It’s not that pricey, and its larger model will fit your family and might have some free space as well!  It has a solid water-proof system and can be easily set-up because all the rods are color-coded!

Going camping is a fun and enjoyable way to pass the time, it’s also a very good opportunity to bond with your family or spouse, or to generally have a good time and embark on an adventure.

This shouldn’t be ruined by a bad tent that blew apart because of the wind.

Remember, it’s all fun and games until the wind blows the tent over. So have fun, stay safe and choose a good tent!

The Best 10 Person Tent For Group Camping: Reviews and Buying Guide

Nothing beats camping outside with your family and friends. For the best 10 person tent, we chose the CORE 10 Person Straight Wall Cabin Tent as our top choice because it’s big enough to accommodate ten campers comfortably. Moreover, it features an excellent ventilation system with front and back door access.

Bringing multiple tents to the campsite is never the most practical solution. Instead, you can invest in a big tent that fits everyone and has some cool features to make your camping adventure more fun.

In this article, we’ll help you find the right 10 person tent for your upcoming outdoor trip, and we’ll suggest a few cool products that you can take into consideration. Here are 5 ten person tents we reviewed:

Reviews of the Best 10 Person Tents

Take your friends and family members on the holiday they’ve been waiting for. Here are our top picks.

With the poles already attached, you won’t struggle much to set this cabin tent up, despite its size. It features steel poles that make it more suitable for challenging weather. The tent measures 14 X 9 X 6.5 feet and is big enough to fit 2 queen-sized air beds. It arrives with a rainfly and a carry bag.

The divider allows you to customize the interior space, and there are several pockets where you can keep your necessities within reach. Featuring front and back door access, no one will be bothered as you try to get into or out of the tent.

To keep your tent dry in all conditions, the Core H2O technology will work to keep the rain outside. Nevertheless, the floor material is a bit thin, so the poles and sharp objects might penetrate it easily if you’re not that careful.

With ground vents and a mesh ceiling, you’ll enjoy better airflow in warm weather. You can also enjoy a refreshing night of stargazing through the mesh. Campers who want to connect their electronic devices to a power outlet can use the E-port. It perfectly seals when it’s not needed.

For better protection from the elements, the heat-sealed seams will keep the rain outside. However, you should be careful while dealing with the zippers as they’re not that sturdy. The tent folds to a compact size when it’s packed and weighs 30.5 pounds so you can carry it easily.

PROS

  • Reduced setup time with attached poles.
  • Room divider and storage pockets for more convenience.
  • H2O technology to keep the tent dry in all weather conditions.
  • Heat-sealed seams.
  • Improved ventilation due to mesh ceiling and ground vents.

CONS

  • Zippers aren’t that good.

Measuring 14 X 10 X 6.3 feet, ten people can fit comfortably in this spacious tent. It’s big enough to accommodate 2 queen-sized air beds, and there’s enough space for all your camping gear. It comes with a rainfly to protect you from the rain and can be set up fast, despite its size. It weighs 30 pounds.

The telescoping poles come already attached, so you won’t struggle to put everything together even if it’s your first time. Two people can set this tent up in 1 minute. The seams are fully taped from the top to the floor to provide better protection from the rain. The professional 600mm PU coating repels the water to provide incredible weather protection on rainy days.

With an improved ventilation system, cool air will come from the ground vents and leave through the mesh ceiling. This will also make the tent more resistant to strong winds. The tent has 2 front doors to provide easy access and features an E-port so you can connect your electric devices to a power outlet outside.

There’s a special room divider that can be used to provide more privacy. The fly is easy to position if the weather changes suddenly, thanks to the color-coding. There’s a special gear pocket where you can keep your essentials within reach and a doormat to keep the tent clean.

Compared to other 10 person tents, this one might be a little too tight. There’s no screen on the door, so you’ll have to keep it closed to protect yourself from the bugs.

PROS

  • Fast setup.
  • Taped seams to protect from the rain.
  • Color-coding to attach the rainfly.
  • Room divider, doormat, and storage pockets.
  • Improved ventilation system.

CONS

  • No screen on the door.

Make sure that everyone has got enough space for their gear by picking this cabin tent. It has almost vertical walls, so campers can stand and move comfortably. The tent is big enough to fit 3 queen-size air beds and it measures 17 X 9 X 6.8 feet.

Thanks to the Weathertec technology, the interior of the tent stays dry regardless of the weather. The inverted seams and patented welded floors are designed to keep all the water outside the tent. The zipper cuff provides more protection from the elements, and there’s a protective rainfly that you can use when needed.

Despite its significant size, you can set this tent up in 20 minutes or less with the help of other campers. It features a hinged door for fast entry and room dividers that grant you more privacy since you’re sharing it with others. You can also use the room divider to separate your gear from the sleeping area if a fewer number is staying in the tent.

The angled window allows for better airflow and more sunlight when it’s raining without letting any rain inside. There are storage mesh pockets carefully sewn to the walls of the tent where you can keep all your necessities.

Given its capacity, this tent is reasonably priced and lightweight. It weighs 31 pounds and features 11-millimeter fiberglass poles. The instant assembly technique with the color-coding will make your job more comfortable when you’re putting it together.

PROS

  • Lightweight 10 person tent.
  • Weathertec technology to keep the tent dry.
  • Angled window that lets the air in, while keeping the rain away.
  • Color-coded fiberglass poles for fast setup.

CONS

  • Not suitable for camping in cold weather.
  • The door is a bit small.

Campers who happen to be on a tight budget will love this spacious tent as it measures 18 X 10 x 6.3 feet. The tent is made of nylon and features 2 D-style doors that provide convenient access to the tent without disturbing other campers who might be relaxing or taking a nap.

The shock-corded fiberglass frame is sturdy enough to withstand various weather conditions. It features the pin and ring system that guarantees effortless setup even if you’re not an avid camper.

Featuring large mesh windows and vents in the roof, you’ll enjoy better airflow in hot weather so you can sleep comfortably. The floor is made of polyethylene, and the seams are welded to provide better weather protection. However, it’s recommended that you don’t use this tent in rainy weather.

This is a lightweight dome style tent that doesn’t occupy much space and can be easily taken to the campsite as it weighs 21.1 pounds. It comes with a divider that allows you to create 2 separate rooms for more privacy.

There’s no carry bag, but with the Stow ‘n’ Go duffel system, users can roll it, and tie it with the mud mat while the poles and stakes unroll with the tent. This is not a freestanding tent, so you must make sure that the ground is flat to set it up as it won’t work on the sand, rocks, or concrete.

PROS

  • Affordable and lightweight tent.
  • Shock-corded fiberglass poles.
  • Welded seams.
  • Mesh windows and vents for better airflow.
  • Room divider and rainfly.

CONS

  • Can’t be used in rainy or cold weather.
  • Doesn’t come with a carry bag.

Give your fellow campers the privacy they need in this large cabin tent. It can be divided into three different rooms and fits 3 queen-sized air beds for maximum comfort as it measures 20 X 10 X 6.8 feet.

Camping in the rain will never be a big problem because the fabric is weather-proof and there’s a large rainfly that covers the tent. However, you shouldn’t expect it to withstand heavy rain or snow. This cabin tent isn’t heavy to carry around as it weighs 27 pounds.

In addition to the big central door, 2 extra side doors provide easy access to every room. This is an excellent choice for a group of friends because campers can enjoy more privacy. Moreover, the 2 side doors and the 6 mesh windows improve the ventilation so you can spend your time comfortably inside the tent and enjoy the views wherever you look.

If you’re camping in a spot where electric outlets are available, you’ll enjoy the E-port that allows you to run a line from your tent to the power outlet. To keep the interior clean, there’s a mud mat that you can place right in front of your door. There’s a special pocket right after the main entrance where you can keep your shoes. It also guarantees that you won’t be surprised by bugs crawling inside your shoes if you leave them outside the tent.

You should note that at least 2 people are needed to set this tent up, and the process will probably take a significant amount of time, given the number of poles and joints included. The zippers aren’t that good, so you need to be careful while using them.

 

PROS

  • Lightweight 3-room tent.
  • 3 doors and 6 mesh windows.
  • Large rainfly.
  • E-port and a special pocket for your shoes.

CONS

  • Setting up the tent is time-consuming.
  • Zippers are not that durable.

Which Type of Tent Should You Choose?

The most common types of tents are cabin and dome tents. Each one comes with a set of pros and cons.

Cabin Tents

Cabin tents should be considered if you’re bringing your tent to a campsite where you are likely to spend a long time. These tents are quite hard to assemble, but once you’re done, you’ll have enough space for a big group with all their gear. You can put comfortable air beds, coolers, and chairs so you can enjoy your time to the maximum.

Taller people enjoy cabin tents because they don’t have to bend as these tents are typically higher. They have more windows and give that comfortable feeling like you’re chilling at home.

Most cabin tents come with dividers that you can use to customize the interior space. This will give all campers more privacy, and you can also have a special room for your camping gear.

These tents are quite heavy, but this makes them more durable, especially in challenging weather. They’re not suitable for backpacking trips because they’re usually cumbersome and difficult to move around.

Dome Tents

These tents are lightweight and more affordable. They can be set up in less time and will be more appropriate if you’re going to move your tent from one spot to another. You can still find dome-style tents that can fit 10 campers, and they will be quite easy to set up.

Do 10 Person Tents Actually Accommodate 10 People?

This is one of the most important questions that people ask, and you’ll always find different answers as you Google it. 10 person tents are designed to fit 10 people sleeping in sleeping bags while keeping their gear outside.

If you’re looking for more space for a family of 4 or a group of 6, you can also buy a 10 person tent as you can fit a queen-size air bed and keep all your necessities inside.

Generally speaking, 10 person tents can be used by a fewer number of people if they’re spending a long time away from home. A single person or a couple won’t feel confined and will be able to enjoy their time more when they buy a big tent. Moreover, these tents are excellent for kids because they can keep their stuff, move, and sleep comfortably.

How to Choose the Best 10 Person Tent

Since there are several tents that can accommodate 10 people, you should be careful while looking for one. Here are some features to think about when you’re shopping for your big tent.

Durability

A durable and sturdy tent is an excellent investment as it can withstand long-term use. You should make sure that the poles are made of quality materials so they can be set in windy weather.

You should also make sure that the fabric is strong enough to withstand the elements. Stay away from cheap materials that can be easily penetrated as this means that your tent won’t last for long.

Moreover, you should pay attention to the quality of the zippers. They might need to be replaced eventually, but buying a tent with functional zippers is always a big plus.

Poles

Fiberglass poles are durable and lightweight. If you’re looking for something sturdier, you should stick to steel or aluminum poles.

Freestanding tents come with all the poles already attached and ready to be assembled. They might be color-coded to make your job a little easier.

Weather Protection

You have no control over the weather, but you can make sure that your tent is built to provide adequate protection in all weather conditions. Heat-sealed seams keep the rain outside, so the interior of the tent doesn’t get wet. Heat-welded corners guarantee that your floor will stay dry regardless of the rain outside.

The rainfly should cover the tent and must be easy to install. Moreover, you want to make sure that it will stay in place in case the wind blows hard to provide proper protection.

A rainfly is either full coverage or roof only. Full coverage models are more suitable for heavy rain, but you should be careful while removing it to make sure that you don’t get wet. A roof only model will provide better light visibility and is easier to install on top of the tent when needed.

Some tents feature a special coating that repels water. This will be an excellent choice if you’re camping in rainy weather as you can guarantee that all your stuff will stay dry inside the tent. If you experience leaks, then you might need to install a special tape to keep the seams closed.

Ventilation

Camping in hot weather can be a real nightmare if your tent isn’t well ventilated. You should make sure that the tent has a potent ventilation system that improves breathability, especially that 10 people are staying in the tent.

Ground vents bring the fresh air inside the tent while the mesh ceiling allows the hot air to escape. This will improve the airflow and reduce the condensation of water vapor that can make you uncomfortable at night.

You should make sure that your tent has enough windows to allow for better airflow. Mesh windows improve the breathability while keeping the bugs away. Bigger mesh panels on the ceiling are better in warm weather, but your tent will feel a little bit chilly when the temperature drops.

Access

A 10 person tent that has 1 door is good but think about every time you want to leave or get into the tent with other people sleeping or keeping their stuff on the floor. It’s a better idea to have a tent that has more doors so you won’t bother other campers.

Since bigger tents usually have dividers that help you create separate rooms inside the tent, it makes sense to have a door for each room. This grants campers more privacy and allows them to move comfortably without disturbing others. Front and back door access will also work when you want to leave the tent when someone is sleeping or chilling.

The design of the door is another essential factor to consider. Some hinged doors are practical because they keep the rain outside the tent, but they might be a little bit tricky, so you might trip and fall. You should also check the height of the door, so you don’t have to bend a lot every time you need to get inside the tent.

Weight

A heavyweight tent is challenging to carry around, but it will be more durable. You should always think about durability and portability as you pick the right tent for your upcoming trip.

If you’re spending time in a single spot, then the weight won’t matter because you won’t have to move your tent around. All you have to do is to keep it in your car until you reach the desired spot and set it up.

People who plan to move around a lot should stick to lightweight tents. You should make sure that you can easily disassemble your tent to take it to the next camping destination. Make sure that the carry bag is convenient to carry around.

Conclusion

The best 10 person tent is a must-have for a group of campers or a camping loving family because it’s more convenient than carrying multiple tents to the campsite. We chose the CORE 10 Person Straight Wall Cabin Tent because it features an improved ventilation system in addition to a unique technology to protect your belongings from the rain. Moreover, there’s a special E-port to use when you want to connect your electric devices to a power outlet.

If you’re choosing a 10 person tent that you can use with your friends and family, you need to make sure that you’re using a good one. Luckily for you, all the names on our list are well-made, so you just need to check them out to find the right one that works for your needs.

 

The Best Heavy-Duty Camping Chair For Big Guys

If you’re a camper pressed for time, we’ve chosen the Portable Camping Quad Chair with 4-Can Cooler by Coleman as our winner due to sturdiness and the abundance of features.

Camping chairs are essentials to have—whether you’re going camping or not. They’re great for taking to open-air events and ideal for getting comfortable at a BBQ. As with all the gear we use outside, though, durability is a must. So is strength, and frankly, not all camping chairs can handle a big guy or gal.

To ensure robustness, you must look for the best heavy-duty camping chair. Our mission today is to walk you through 10 top camping chairs and help you make the perfect choice.

In this article, we’re going to review the following heavy-duty camping chairs:

The Best Heavy-Duty Camping Chairs

We used our search criteria (you can read about that below), then we scoured expert sites to ensure the contenders are worthy of a spot. So let’s have a look.

Portable Camping Quad Chair by Coleman
Steel frame325-pound weight limitPolyester seatChair weighs 7.75 pounds

The top spot on our list goes to the Portable Camping Quad Chair from Coleman.

To support the extra weight, Coleman uses a sturdy steel frame construction. The seat is wide, measuring 24 inches. This ensures full stability and ample room for you to sit back and relax.

If you’re anything like me and enjoy a cold drink after exploring the trails, then the next feature is much appreciated. Inside the armrest, Coleman made sure to include an insulated pouch that can hold up to four cans.

To your other side, you have a cup holder and a side pocket for storing a book, snacks, your phone or other gear you need.

The seat collapses effortlessly, making it easy to transport in the included carry bag. Lastly, you have four fantastic colors to choose from.

PROS

  • High weight limit of 325 pounds.
  • Wide, cushioned seat.
  • Insulated pouch for drinks and a mesh pocket.
  • Easy to fold.

CONS

  • Difficult to get into the included carry bag.
King Kong Chair by ALPS Mountaineering
Steel frameWeight limit is 800 pounds600D polyester materialOverall weight 13 pounds

If you’re looking for a camping chair with a high weight limit, scroll no further. This one is fit for King Kong—it’s one of the most robust constructions on today’s list.

It can support up to 800 pounds, and with a seat that’s 30 inches wide, there’s ample room. It’s constructed from 600D polyester, which is thick and durable.

The downside to this high load capacity and solid construction is the considerable weight of approximately 13 pounds.

To the sides are cup holders and pockets for all your essentials. At the back, there’s an additional pocket, which is the perfect size for storing larger belongings.

The chair is super comfy, too, and you can adjust the armrests to suit your preference.

Included is a convenient carry bag that’s easy to use and will keep the chair safe during storage. What’s more, you can choose between three stylish colors of blue, red or khaki.

PROS

  • Can support up to 800 pounds.
  • Comfortable and durable polyester fabric.
  • Carry bag included.
  • Two cup holders and three pockets.

CONS

  • Heavy to carry for a “portable” chair.
  • It might be too tall for short legs.
STRONGBACK Elite Heavy Duty Camping Chair
Steel frameWeight limit of 300 pounds600D polyester materialOverall weight, 11.9 pounds

For those of us who suffer from back problems, a camping chair with sufficient support is crucial. Strongback includes a frame-integrated lumbar support system. The design works to conform to the natural curve of the spine, which prevents slouching.

It’s an award-winning chair, backed by a two-year warranty. There are four color options, even a neat camo design.

The chair consists of a heavy-duty 600D polyester seat and a black powder-coated steel frame.

Strongback recommends the chair for people who are 5 feet 8 inches or taller. Don’t worry, though; there’s also one for shorter people. The seat sits 18 inches above the ground, and from the ground to the tallest point, the chair measures 35.5 inches.

It’s also effortless to fold and carry with you, a feature I’d have appreciated on my last trip.

Lots of gear and a heavy and cumbersome chair equals a tired camper. Luckily, the Strongback Elite weighs a reasonable 11.9 pounds and folds into a compact package, ready for the included backpack-style carry bag.

PROS

  • Ergonomic backrest.
  • Wide, comfortable seat.
  • Excellent for tall individuals.
  • Easy to fold and transport.

CONS

  • Low weight limit.
  • Cup holder is rather small.
Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping Chair
Steel frame300-pound weight limitRipstop polyester fabricOverall weight, 9.5 pounds

For campers who love to go on hikes and need a portable chair, we highly recommend this one by Kijaro. It offers superb comfort and is effortless to take with you on the trail. Allowing you to stop, rest and gaze at the amazing views.

It weighs slightly under 10 pounds. When you lock it, you’ll have the carry strap ready to throw it over your shoulder, and you’re off.

Once you’re at your location, unlock it, and sit down. The chair provides optimal comfort—its no-sag design prevents that uncomfortable hammock seat that often leads to backaches. Instead, it will support you in all the right places.

To each side are mesh cup holders for your drinks. Additionally, you’ll have a zippered organizer and mesh pockets for your small stuff.

There’s an abundance of color options—11, to be exact. All include ripstop polyester fabric, which has a high resistance to wear and tear.

PROS

  • Lightweight.
  • Carry bag included.
  • No-sag seat design for optimal comfort.
  • Cup holders and pockets.

CONS

  • Not suitable for beach use—sand gets in the nuts and meddles with the locking mechanism.
Coleman Broadband Mesh Quad Camping Chair
Steel frame250-pound weight limitNylon mesh fabricOverall weight, 3.8 pounds

Whether you’re going on a hike or looking for a comfy chair for the next cookout, Coleman’s got you covered. The Broadband Mesh Quad Camping Chair is compact yet offers quite the durability.

The chair is excellent for medium to tall people—the seat sits 18.1-inch above the ground. Coleman used nylon mesh fabric, which provides fantastic ventilation on hot days. With a width of 21.3 inches, it isn’t the broadest, but the comfort makes up for it.

Cup holders are essential on a camping chair, and of course, Coleman included one. The mesh holder is suitable for an average can, though it may be too small if you’re using a koozie. To each side are comfortable armrests.

The heavy-duty steel frame, which comes with a one-year warranty, supports the seat. It folds effortlessly for portability, and won’t take up much space in the trunk. You can always use the sling bag when you’re traveling on foot.

Sadly, this option can only accommodate up to 250 pounds, which is lower than most others on our list. But, as it only weighs 3.8 pounds, it’s also the lightest.

PROS

  • Comfortable seat with ventilation.
  • Excellent height for long legs.
  • Heavy-duty steel frame.
  • One-year warranty.

CONS

  • Lower capacity at 250 pounds.
  • Narrow seat.
Camping Folding Chair by Timber Ridge
Aluminum frame300-pound weight limitPolyester fabricOverall weight, 9.5 pounds

Timber Ridge offers a fantastic camping chair for folks who are spending time by the lake or in the backyard. It’s an excellent chair with lots to offer, and with a weight capacity of 300 pounds, it’s perfect for today’s list.

This option has a high, 23-inch back, topped with a soft headrest. To the sides are durable ABS armrests that offer outstanding comfort due to their thick foam padding. The seat, however, is narrow compared to the others on the list, measuring only 20 inches in width.

A unique aspect of this product is how it folds. It’s not the typical umbrella-like mechanism. Instead, it merely collapses together in a square shape. Timber Ridge includes a carry bag to help with transportation.

It’s also lightweight—at roughly 9.5 pounds. The aluminum frame contributes to its lightness, without compromising stability. Included is a one-year warranty.

You have two color options to choose from, blue and green. It’s an outstanding chair, perfect for some outdoor leisure on a lazy Sunday.

PROS

  • Lightweight aluminum frame.
  • Comfortable seat.
  • High back and headrest for support.
  • Carry bag included.

CONS

  • The seat is narrow.
  • Not a compact fold.
ALPHA CAMP Mesh Canopy Camping Chair
Steel frame300-pound weight limitOxford cloth and mesh materialOverall weight, 14 pounds

When camping in the summer, having a refuge from the sun is highly appreciated. This camping chair by Alpha Camp comes with a compatible overhead canopy that provides up to 50 UPF sun protection.

This product is oversized and super comfy. When unfolded, it measures 36.6 inches by 23.6 inches and can accommodate a weight of up to 300 pounds.

Everything screams summer comfort. It includes several panels of mesh, making the seat breathable, with natural ventilation coming through.

Alpha Camp used durable steel with an anti-rust hammer tone finish, which stands up effortlessly against outside elements, including rain and moisture. The legs are thick, ensuring both stability and sturdiness.

For your comfort, it includes padded armrests, a cup holder and smart storage for your phone.

PROS

  • Canopy included.
  • Broad seat.
  • Heavy-duty materials.
  • Cup holder and storage pocket.

CONS

  • Very heavy for camping purposes.
Fireside Chair by Browning Camping
Pro-Tec steel frame300-pound weight limitPolyester and mesh materialOverall weight, 11.6 pounds

For comfort at the BBQs over the summer, Browning Camping has an option worthy of a look. The Fireside Chair delivers a sturdy Pro-Tec, powder-coated steel frame, suited with durable fabric. It can accommodate a person weighing up to 300 pounds.

The chair folds conveniently into the 7 inches by 45 inches carry bag and weighs just 11.6 pounds. It’s easy to take with you on foot to your location.

One thing that’s always bothersome is a chair that gets hot. Fortunately, Browning Camping thought of this and used reinforced mesh at the center of the back to provide ventilation. The backrest is tall, which adds to the comfort by providing head support.

Another pro is the design—the neutral green colors with a pop from the golden logo gives it a stylish finish. You also have the option of a pink logo.

PROS

  • Stable construction.
  • Comfortable seat with ventilation and high backrest.
  • Lightweight and compact fold.
  • Stylish design.

CONS

  • Plastic feet.
  • Cup holder is too small.
ONIVA Big Bear XXL Camp Chair
Steel frame500-pound weight limitPolyester fabricOverall weight, 14 pounds

For my fellow big guys, the Big Bear XXL camping chair by Oniva is fantastic. Whether you’re tailgating or going to an outdoor sporting event, it can easily support a weight of 500 pounds.

Constructed with a broad 24-inch seat, you can sit well back with the 25-inch depth. It’s also a guarantee of some extra legroom.

With a durable steel frame, hinged feet that adjust to uneven surfaces and a seat of sturdy polyester fabric, the Big Bear won’t budge. Backing its quality is a lifetime guarantee.

It’s stylish, too. It sports a two-color black and tan design, finished with complementary stitching on the perimeter. On the side, as well as a cup holder, is a zippered pocket to keep important items secure.

Included in the deal is a carry bag with a convenient strap so that it’s easy to take with you.

PROS

  • It safely supports 500 pounds.
  • Wide and deep seat for comfort.
  • Fantastic two-toned design.
  • Zippered security pocket.

CONS

  • The seating position is a little too upright.
  • Heavy to carry.
Heavy-Duty Compact Camping Chair by KingCamp
Steel frame300-pound weight limit600D Oxford and mesh fabricOverall weight, 11.9 pounds

The high-performance camping chair from KingCamp brings some luxury to the outdoors. It’s fit for a king yet compact.

It’s heavy-duty, made with a rugged steel frame that can carry up to 300 pounds, backed by a lifetime warranty. The seat measures 20.5 inches in width with a height of 18.5 inches, sufficient for long legs.

Folding it is straightforward and will only take a minute, although a thorough guide is included.

The star feature has to be the 600D Oxford fabric. This is both durable and water-resistant, excellent for outdoor use.

At the back, you’ll have reinforced mesh, which runs the height and length of the chair. This ventilates, preventing an uncomfortably warm seat.

Other features we love are the padded armrests and the side table so snacks or your iPad can be close at hand. Here, you’ll also find a cup holder.

PROS

  • Durable and water-resistant Oxford fabric.
  • Padded armrests.
  • Side table and cup holder.
  • Mesh backrest and bottom.

CONS

  • The seat sags a bit.
  • Assembly is challenging.

RELATED: Best Camping Chairs with Sun Canopy

How to Find the Best Heavy-Duty Camping Chair

Now that we’ve had a look at our top 10, it’s time for some tips on finding the best heavy-duty chair for you. Here are a few things we deem essential criteria when searching:

Weight and Capacity

When looking for heavy-duty camping chairs, a key component to look for is its weight capacity.

As you’re looking around, you’ll see a broad range— heavy-duty though, is generally between 250 and 400 pounds. One exception is the King Kong Chair from ALPS Mountaineering, which goes up to 800 pounds.

How much weight the chair needs to be able to bear depends on you. We do, however, recommend a high capacity for some peace of mind.

Another thing to be aware of is how heavy the chair itself is. Depending on how you’re traveling, this is a crucial factor. If you’re going on foot, you want something lightweight, the Coleman Broadband Mesh Quad Camping Chair, for example.

Armrest, Footrest and Other Features

We all want the most from our camping chairs, and one must-have feature is an armrest. For maximum comfort, or looking to soak up the sun, it’s good to have built-in armrests.

Those that are adjustable, such as the King Kong Chair by ALPS Mountaineering, are fantastic if you want something versatile.

Footrests are rare to find on camping chairs. It’s also a feature not all deem necessary and can be restrictive for taller users.

One feature that most of us do look for, is cup holders. Enjoying a cold drink or your morning coffee in your chair is the dream—so having a place to put it temporarily is fantastic.

Pockets and storage compartments are also great to have, the Portable Camping Quad Chair by Coleman scores high here.

However, we will say that with more features, the price is likely to rise. So prioritize what’s important to you if you have a fixed budget.

Materials and Durability

The materials used and the quality of build determine durability. Cheap frames are sure to crack under pressure, giving you a trip to the floor. You generally have two materials to choose from—steel and aluminum.

For heavy-duty chairs, steel is the best. It’s significantly more durable than aluminum, even with the risk of rust. It generally also has a higher weight limit, which we see with the King Kong Chair by ALPS Mountaineering. The drawback is that this material is heavier, which isn’t ideal for backpacking or hiking.

The textiles used for upholstery are essential to consider. A typical fabric is polyester—it’s sturdy as well as stain and moisture-resistant. Make sure that the density is high for extra sturdiness. Most products on our list are 600D or above, such as the Heavy-Duty Compact Camping Chair by KingCamp.

Some chairs use nylon, which is also very durable, and it’s usually more comfortable against the skin. A con is that nylon absorbs water—not a great feature if it’s raining.

Warranty

A warranty is always good to look for. Some products on our list, such as the Heavy-Duty Compact Camping Chair by KingCamp, include a lifetime warranty.

This is almost a guarantee that the manufacturer stands behind its product and quality. Warranties allow you to get repairs in the event of breakages or faults—remember to register if required.

Overall Comfort

A top priority is being comfortable. We recommend looking for a chair that gives support for your back, for example, the Elite Heavy Duty Folding Camping Chair by STRONGBACK. It provides proper lumbar support for the lower back, preventing bad posture.

Chairs without proper support often encourage slouching, which can quickly result in back pain. You may also want to consider the seat’s height—ensure that you aren’t bending your knees excessively when you sit, or your head isn’t lolling over the top of the seat when you recline.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Best Padded Camping Chairs for Bad Back in 2024

Shade Coverage

Chairs with a canopy, such as the ALPHA CAMP Mesh Canopy Camping Chair, are excellent. You get refuge from the sun while still being near to the action. Not all have this feature, so you may have to do an exclusive search.

Conclusion

Finding the best heavy-duty camping chair will ensure that you have a safe and secure outdoor seat whenever required. Even if you don’t need all the extra weight capacity, these chairs are generally more durable.

Our winner today is the Portable Camping Quad Chair with 4-Can Cooler by Coleman—it has lots of features and is very sturdy. Our runner up King Kong Chair by ALPS Mountaineering has the highest weight limit of all the products on our list. A staggering 800 pounds!

When choosing the best chair for you, the main considerations are weight, capacity and comfort. If your budget allows, go as big as you can —this generally ensures durability.

Don’t forget about extra features—armrests, cup holders and canopies are the perfect finish to a good camping chair.

The Best Wool Blankets For Camping And Backpacking To Keep You Warm

a man warming up in a wool blanket

Any seasoned camper will know that the best time to get out there is during the colder months. Not only is the weather beautifully crisp, but you’re also avoiding the crowds of other campers. However, before venturing out in the cold, it’s imperative to have the right gear with you.

That’s why we recommend going for the Arcturus Military Wool Blanket if you just want the best of the best.

Sleeping bags are your first shield from the cold, but often you’ll need something more. Today, we’re looking for the best wool blanket for camping.

In this article, we’re going to review the following wool blankets for camping:

The Best Wool Blankets for Camping

Military Wool Blanket by Arcturus
Material: Wool and synthetic fibersSize:  64 x 88 inchesMachine washable:  Yes

For the best wool blanket on today’s list, we have the Military Wool Blanket from Arcturus. This is a heavy-duty wool blanket, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

The Military Wool Blanket is heavy, weighing in at about 4.5 pounds and has a density of 600 grams per square meter. It’s thick and lovely, capable of keeping you warm through cold weather.

Arcturus used 80 percent wool and 20 percent hypoallergenic synthetic fibers, which aids durability and washability. It’s machine washable if it fits your washer, and you can even tumble dry it on a low-heat setting.

Because of the large amount of wool used in the blanket, it can keep you warm even when wet. Water won’t be able to penetrate, keeping you dry and cozy inside, which would’ve been nice on my last ski trip.

The blanket looks great, too. It’s loom-woven with hems on all sides, finished with contrast lock stitching.

You can choose between three colors — these are military grey, olive green and navy blue. No matter which option you choose, whether you’re going on a picnic or want to get cozy with your partner, the blanket is large, and there’s room for everyone. It measures 64 inches by 88 inches — excellent for any occasion.

PROS

  • Thick, heavy-duty blanket.
  • Machine-washable and tumble dry-safe.
  • Large and roomy.
  • Good-looking with three colors available.

CONS

  • Chemical smell.
  • Sheds in the dryer.
Pendleton
Material: Wool and synthetic fibersSize:  66 x 96 inchesMachine washable:  Yes

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative to the other blankets on the list, we highly recommend the Eco-Wise by Pendleton. With the name, you already know you’re getting a high-quality product.

The Eco-Wise blanket is similar to other Pendleton products, except that it’s made with sustainability in mind. Pendleton used only renewable wool and natural dyes, meaning there are no chemicals and a minimal impact on mother earth.

But don’t let the natural dyes fool you — the blanket is vibrant, and the color pops. The twin size, at 66 by 96 inches, works as a cover as well as a throw blanket for spicing up a camper. Also, the edges feature whipstitched finishes, which add the cherry on top — it’s simply stunning.

You have different sizes to choose from as well as colors and patterns. It’s also available in vintage plaid and a stripy glacier.

Besides the sustainability and amazing looks, it’s easy to maintain, too. Pendleton stresses that it’s machine-washable and will continue to hold its soft texture and rich color, even through multiple washes.

PROS

  • Made with eco-friendly products.
  • Vibrant color.
  • Soft and warm.
  • Machine-washable.

CONS

  • Stiff out of the package but softens up after the first wash.
Material: 100% woolSize:  66 x 90 inchesMachine washable:  Yes

For those of you who are on the hunt for a heavy-duty wool blanket, Ektos has one for you. This heavyweight of a blanket is thick and durable, ready for the autumn camping trip.

One exceptional pro about an all-wool blanket is the warmth to weight ratio. Ektos used 100 percent wool when producing the cover — it’s loom-woven and has finished edges to prevent any separating or fraying. Though it’s fairly heavy, weighing in at 5.5 pounds, you know it will keep you warm.

It’s a natural insulator, which works to regulate your body temperature, even when wet. The comfort it promises is also outstanding — Ektos designed it to be non-scratchy and super soft.

The blanket has no added chemicals to keep it fire retardant. Instead, it relies fully on wool’s natural fire-resistant abilities. Besides this, it’s mildew and static-resistant — you can run your socks over the carpet and still not get shocked from the blanket.

What’s more, the blanket is effortless to care for. It’s machine and hand-washable; just keep it on a cool setting.

PROS

  • 100 percent wool blanket.
  • Heavy-duty construction.
  • Super soft and flexible.
  • Easy to clean.

CONS

  • Heavy.
  • Sheds after washing.
Merino Wool Camp Blanket by Woolly Mammoth Woolen Co.
Material: Wool, nylon and polyesterSize:  66 x 90 inchesMachine washable:  No

If you’re tall or simply want a large wool blanket, then look no further. The Merino Wool Camp Blanket measures 66 by 90 inches, which is a fantastic size, whether it’s needed for when sleeping or use as a picnic blanket.

The cover is warm and cozy, and is woven using a twill weave — it includes 80% virgin Merino wool, without any recycled material. To enhance its durability, the manufacturer added 20 percent acrylic nylon and polyester in the warp and weft.

We’re really into the look of this blanket. It’s dense thanks to its milled finish, meaning it has an inter-fiber felting and fabric consolidation. The edges have double-stitched polyester threads, and, for that timeless finish, there’s a thick yarn whipstitch running around the blanket.

Three colors are available for you to choose from — grey, olive green and navy blue. Thanks to the weave, stains and smudges are less noticeable, irrespective of which color you choose. However, it’s dry clean only, so it won’t hold up in the washer or dryer.

Despite its massive size and density, it only weighs 4 pounds, which is ideal for camping trips and transportation. It’s also easy to roll up and place on a backpack during a hike.

PROS

  • Fantastic length.
  • Durable weave.
  • Beautiful whipstitch finish.
  • Lightweight and easy to roll up.

CONS

  • Not as soft as other wool blankets.
Twin Wool Camp Blanket with Leather Carrier by Pendleton
Material: Wool and cottonSize:  66 x 84 inchesMachine washable:  No

If you’re searching for the best wool blanket for backpacking, Pendleton has something for you. The Twin Wool Camp Blanket comes with a compatible leather carrier, making it easy to attach on a backpack or a bike.

The quality of this blanket is outstanding — it contains 86 percent wool and 14 percent cotton, so it’s comfy and warm, too. The wool blend is water-resistant and heavy-duty, so it’s definitely suitable for outdoorsy living.

Partially why it’s so suitable for backpacking is its smaller size. It’s a twin-sized blanket, measuring 66 by 84 inches. Don’t worry; there’s still ample room to snuggle up and get warm.

Save space in your backpack by using this warm blanket as a pillow in your sleeping bag.

It’s a very vintage-styled blanket, with different colored stripes. Around the edges is a whipstitch binding, giving it that beautiful, timeless look. You can pick between three colors, all of which are earthy and warm.

The included leather carrier strap is rugged, yet stylish, finished off with the Pendleton logo.

PROS

  • Fantastic for backpacking thanks to included carrier strap.
  • Super comfy and warm.
  • Heavy-duty blanket.
  • Earthy, vintage-style look.

CONS

  • Not as flexible as others.
Olive Drab Green Warm Wool Blanket by Ever Ready First Aid
Material: Wool and synthetic fibersSize:  66 x 90 inchesMachine washable:  Yes

If you’re going to hit the trails, this is an excellent companion — Ever Ready First Aid designed it similar to those issued to the military.

The blanket will keep you warm — it’s designed to trap body heat during extreme weather conditions. If you live in the South, it might be too warm, though.

With a twin-size of 66 by 90 inches, there’s still plenty of room to snuggle up. And, because it’s fire retardant, you can easily sit near the campfire without worrying that you’ll end up as crisp toast.

It contains 80 percent wool and 20 percent synthetic materials, which gives it a soft texture. Thanks to this softness, it’s effortless to roll up. Depending on the size of your backpack, you may need a carrier strap to attach it on the outside, though.

PROS

  • Excellent blanket for backpacking.
  • Soft and warm.
  • Fire retardant material.

CONS

  • Sheds when washing.
  • Distinct smell prior to the first washing.
Heavyweight Alpaca Wool Blanket by Alpaca Warehouse
Material: Alpaca woolSize:  82 x 62 inchesMachine washable:  No

A soft blanket is always appreciated when away from home, and Alpaca Warehouse delivers. This Alpaca wool blanket is extra thick but super soft — able to keep you warm during the cold camping nights or sat around the fire.

The blanket is made in Peru out of alpaca wool, produced using only high-quality materials. It offers outstanding warmth and strength so that you can use it in various scenarios. It’s also available in three different sizes and colors, suitable for twins, queens and kings — beds, of course!

Alpaca Warehouse designed it as a throw blanket, but it’s ultra-thick, so you can easily use it to shield you from the cold ground. Another thing it prides itself on is the itchless design, so it won’t be like Grandma’s itchy Christmas sweaters.

We decided to showcase the twin size here, which measures 82 by 62 inches. We feel that this is the best size when going camping, especially if you’re hiking.

PROS

  • Very soft and comfortable.
  • Made from high-quality alpaca wool.
  • Non-itchy.
  • More sizes available.

CONS

  • Quality control issues — some blankets have poor threading.
Crater Lake Navy National Park Blanket by Pendleton
Material: Virgin woolSize:  90 x 90 inchesMachine washable:  No

The Pendleton Crater Lake Navy National Park Blanket contains 100 percent wool and is made in the U.S.

Pendleton is a famous name that brings both modern and nostalgic vibes. It’s been around since the early 1900s, where it’s continued to honor the treasures of America’s National Parks.

One thing we adore about this blanket is the reassurance of quality. With it, you’ll receive a woven label marked with the park name, as well as an image of a natural feature. While this doesn’t impact its ability to keep you warm, we appreciate the Pendleton stamp of style and authority.

The Crater Lake Blanket is a queen size, measuring 90 by 90 inches, making it by far the largest on our list.

It’s dry clean only to protect the delicate wool, and we’re amazed by the style — the navy blue and those rainbow-colored stripes give it a vintage vibe we just can’t shake off. Don’t ruin it by machine-washing it!

PROS

  • High-quality, 100 percent wool blanket.
  • Very soft.
  • Nostalgic style.
  • Pendleton woven label included.

CONS

  • A little thin.

Why Wool Rocks

When it comes to camping blankets, the material that always seems to be the best is wool. Whether it’s a blend or pure, wool blankets provide a range of benefits to the camper:

Naturally Regulates Temperatures

One of wool’s many abilities is to regulate temperatures — you may notice that the blanket feels warm in the winter, yet still comfortable during summer. One study even showed that sleeping in wool clothes and bedding could potentially improve your sleep, as it kept a steady thermal environment.

Wool’s pretty amazing — it works to draw the heat from your body during warm weather and directs it to a cooler area. This, in turn, keeps you cool, even though it’s warm out. In the winter, wool does the opposite, as it now contains the heat around your body under the blanket.

You’ll notice that we’ve featured an alpaca blanket on our list. Alpaca wool is more efficient than sheep’s wool due to its better thermal capacity. So, do consider the Alpaca Warehouse product for this alone.

Hypoallergenic

Because wool is all-natural and, thus, chemical-free, it rarely causes any allergic reactions. Some studies have shown that most people who react to wool are actually sensitive toward lanolin and textile-processing additives.

Water-Resistant

If you’re wet from the rain, the wool blanket will work to absorb moisture before releasing it back into the air. The same happens if you sweat while you’re sleeping.

Because of this, there’s also only a small chance that a wool blanket develops mold or mildew.

How to Find the Best Wool Blankets for Camping

Blanket Weight

One drawback of wool blankets is that they tend to be heavy — some weigh more than 5 pounds, which isn’t ideal when hiking. Of course, this depends on personal preference, but it’s generally better to go with lighter ones. Less weight means they’re easier to carry, and you can always add layers underneath if needed.

Percentage of Wool

Even though there’s the word “wool” in the description, it doesn’t mean the blanket is 100 percent wool. In fact, most blankets are only 80 percent, where the rest will either be cotton or synthetic, such as polyester or nylon.

It’s not exactly a bad thing. Many times, those that are a blend are softer to touch and less itchy. However, you won’t get the full benefits of wool, including temperature regulations, fire-resistance and hypoallergenic material.

Size Does Matter

Before you begin your search, consider how big the blanket should be. This depends on your size and how many people will share it. Twin-sized blankets, around 66 inches by 90 inches, are very standard in wool camping blankets, but you can get the bigger queen and king-sized ones for ultimate coverage.

Itchiness

Itchiness is people’s biggest fear when they hear the word “wool.” Fortunately, most aren’t that itchy. It all depends on the blend of materials and how it’s woven together. High-quality wool blankets, like the Eco-Wise by Pendleton, are super soft, even though they’re 100 percent wool.

Cost

A good wool blanket can easily cost over $100. When it comes to the cost, it’s imperative to remember that it usually means better quality. And when out on the trail, you rely on your equipment, so quality is essential.

However, if you’re simply looking for a throw blanket for the camper, you can easily go with a less expensive choice. But we highly recommend doing your research to ensure it’s right for you.

Durability

In case something should happen, such as extreme weather changes or even just rough conditions, you need equipment you can trust. This will also ensure that the blanket will last for years to come.

Fire Retardant

Pure wool is a natural fire-retardant. The material requires a lot of oxygen to ignite, making it very difficult for it to catch flames. It’s also a lot less likely to melt when heated, as synthetic materials usually do.

However, because many wool blankets contain other materials and the wool has been stretched during production, their resistance to fire diminishes. Of course, they’re probably less flammable than a nylon blanket, but don’t cover yourself and consider it safe during a fire.

How to Take Care of Your Wool Blanket

Although wool blankets are durable, their worst enemy (probably) is the washer. Not many are machine-washable, but fortunately, the material is quite stain-resistant.

Any good brand will give you thorough directions for cleaning and storing to ensure the blanket’s quality. Despite this, there are some general pointers to follow:

Conclusion

Finding the best wool blanket for camping is a guarantee of staying warm and cozy. Our winner today is the Military Wool Blanket by Arcturus; it’s a heavy-duty wool blanket without being too heavy, so it’s easy to transport. For our runner-up, we have the Pendleton Eco-Wise, notable for its eco-friendly creation while providing excellent warmth. It’s slightly larger than the Arcturus winner but just loses out based on it being slightly thinner.

Wool is one of the best materials to choose because it naturally regulates temperature and is less likely to give you an allergic reaction. Still, it’s essential to consider the weight, size and percentage of wool used to ensure you get the best blanket for you.

What Are The Best Energy Bars For Hiking?

hiking energy bars

Energy bars are a convenient way to get energy from food. They are nicely packed with the proper ingredients to fuel your next hike. But not all energy bars are equal. Continue reading to learn more about different types of hiking bars and how to pick the one to fit your demands.

Types Of Energy Bars

Protein Bars

The primary purpose of the protein bars is to provide an easy source of protein to recover and grow muscles after a workout. Since hiking is not considered as an activity to gain weight or muscles, the protein bars shouldn’t be used for it. However, our bodies have a process called gluconeogenesis which converts excessive protein into carbohydrates.

The bars with protein weight of ~20 grams more often than not have an unnatural and unpleasant taste. Therefore, it’s recommended to choose the ones that are close to ~10 grams. They not only taste better but less likely to cause GI distress.

Meal Replacement

From their name, they are intended to be a substitution for a regular meal. FDA has no definition for a “meal replacement“, but usually it refers to a product with 200-300 calories, diversified set of vitamins and a balanced nutrition profile.

Endurance Bars

The main idea is to provide a good source of carbohydrates and electrolytes over a long period. It’s usually done by using complex carbs that are digested over many hours. 

Organic Bars

There is a significant trend in a food consumption to eat organic food, and ​this is where organic bars try to excel. Added protein and artificial sweeteners such as isomaltol, sucrose, high-fructose corn syrup are rejected to be included in the ingredients list.

How to pick an energy bar

In my mind, no matter what promises a manufacturer gives, you should always start with taste. I had boxes of different bars that were eaten for a very long time because they tasted horrible. The last thing you want on a hike is to shovel down your throat the next piece of an awful bar. 

​Next is to define your the price range. The better quality including organic ingredients always lies closer to the high spectrum of 2-3$ per bar. 

The last thin​g is to pick macro ratios: carbs / fat /protein. When you go on a short hike, take a carb-loaded bar. It will provide you with an instant easily digestible energy. For longer hikes, I recommend looking for a higher content of fat. It packs much more energy in 1 gram. After the glycogen reserves are depleted in a liver, it switches to the ketosis and starts producing energy from fat. 

Top Energy Hiking Bars

Clif Bar Variety Pack, Chocolate Chip, Crunchy Peanut Butter
Size: 68gCalories: 240Calories from fat: 45Total Carbohydrates: 44gFiber: 4gProtein: 10g
PROBAR, Original Trail Mix
Size: 85gCalories: 360Calories from fat: 160Total Carbohydrates: 49gFiber: 5gProtein: 9g
Larabar Gluten Free Bar, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
Size: 45gCalories: 220Calories from fat: 110Total Carbohydrates: 26gFiber: 4gProtein: 6g
Zing Nutrition Bar, Dark Chocolate Mint
Size: 50gCalories: 210Calories from fat: 80Total Carbohydrates: 26gFiber: 5gProtein: 11g
Taos Mountain Energy Bar
Size: 62gCalories: 304Calories from fat: 171Total Carbohydrates: 29gFiber: 5gProtein: 7g
Power Crunch Protein Energy, Peanut Butter Fudge Butter Fudge
Size: 40gCalories: 200Calories from fat: 105Total Carbohydrates: 10gFiber: 1gProtein: 13g
Bearded Brothers Bodacious Blueberry Vanilla Energy Bar
Size: 43gCalories: 190Calories from fat: 80Total Carbohydrates: 22gFiber: 4gProtein: 5g
Better Than Coffee Health Energy Bars
Size: 25gCalories: 110Total Carbohydrates: 12gFiber: 4gProtein: 5g
KIND Fruit & Nut, Almond & Coconut
Size: 40gCalories: 180Calories from fat: 90Total Carbohydrates: 23gFiber: 3gProtein: 3g
Redd Gluten Free Vegan Superfood Energy Bar, Chocolate
Size: 62gCalories: 220Calories from fat: 80Total Carbohydrates: 34gFiber: 8gProtein: 10g

The Best Tents For Stargazing

camp at night

The best part of camping is connecting with nature and realizing how you’re a small part of a much larger world. For this reason, when I’m out camping, I really love sleeping under the stars by using a tent with a mesh roof. These allow me to take in the vast constellations without all of the light pollution of my home town preventing me from witnessing nature’s glory. These tents aren’t easy to find, which is why, I created this guide to help you to find the best tents for stargazing.

In this article, we’re going to review the following camping tents for stargazing:

Top 5 Stargazing Tents

This tent, which is from Moutainsmith, has a three-season use, which means that you can use it in most adverse weather conditions. In fact, the tent has a bathtub-style floor so that it’s very difficult for moisture to accumulate on the tent’s floor.

For stargazing, this tent is fairly impressive. When the night is clear, all you’ll have to do is remove the rainfly; this provides a fairly unobstructed view of the night sky for the people staying in this two-person tent.

PROS

  • Assembly of the tent is very easy; in fact, Mountainsmith uses color-coding and J-hooks to make it very easy to pitch this tent.
  • It’s designed to comfortably accommodate two people.
  • The tent has a two-vestibule layout. This means that you can store things like shoes and packs right outside the tent without them getting wet.

CONS

  • Despite the fact that this has two vestibules, they are somewhat small.
  • The material could be stronger; it can definitely abrade if you’re not careful.
  • The 7000 Series aluminum alloy Yunan poles can break fairly easily.

For those looking for a backpack-friendly camping option that lets you gaze at the stars freely, the TN2 from Kelty is an excellent option. It’s very easy to see the sky with the Stargazer Fly. Simply roll the rainfly back, and you’ll be able to clearly see the sky through the mesh material roof of this tent. When the weather turns iffy, you can simply unclip the fly, roll it down, and enjoy the sound of the rain with your tentmate.

PROS

  • It only weighs a little over four pounds, which makes it fairly easy to heft around during your hikes.
  • It folds down very small using Kelty’s Tent Cube storage system, which makes the tent very stowable.
  • The vestibule area is large enough for several items.
  • Kelty’s Stargazer Fly makes this a very versatile tent that can protect you from the elements or roll back to grant access to the night sky.
  • This is a relatively easy to setup tent that has color-coded tent poles and easy to attach the Kelty hook clips for convenience.

CONS

  • For some reason, there’s only one large door on this tent, which means that you may have to climb over your tentmate at night.
  • Water can pool a bit on the roof area since there’s a small space there.
  • Condensation has a tendency to form if you don’t use the guy lines.
  • The instructions for the tent are a bit underwhelming.

If you’re looking for a larger stargazing tent option that will accommodate most families, then this Sundome product may be a good selection for your next trip. I like the fact that it comes in both green and navy colors, and I also like its dome shaping, which really helps against the wind and makes the tent feel a bit more spacious.

Here are several points on this tent that you can use for stargazing; you’ll just have to be sure not to have the rainfly on. For convenience, the tent even has an electric access port, which is a great feature for the kids or if you need to charge your GPS.

PROS

  • This is a spacious tent that can accommodate up to four campers.
  • There’s room enough vertically to almost stand up.
  • It has a door mat, which is perfect for leaving your shoes or boots outside at night.
  • The polyethylene ground sheet has welded seams that will keep the interior of the tent dry and insect-free.

CONS

  • The tent poles are made of fiberglass, which isn’t the most durable or lightest material for your tent.
  • If you’re planning on using an airbed, you may struggle for space.
  • This really isn’t large enough for four full-grown adults.

For those that want even more space, the Core 9 has you covered. This spacious stargazing tent can handle up to nine occupants who can all experience some excellent stargazing by removing the rainfly. When inclement weather strikes, the Core 9 has features like H2O Block technology that effectively keeps the tent dry. The tent even has hooks and pockets that can easily be used for the storage of smaller items.

PROS

  • This is a great family-sized stagazing tent.
  • It’s very easy to hang things like lanterns off of the internal hooks.
  • It has an electric cord access port, which will let you charge your devices.
  • You can fit several queen-sized air mattresses within the interior.
  • It folds down to a fairly small size.

CONS

  • It doesn’t have a bathtub-style floor.
  • The rainfly covers the screens slightly.
  • he poles are fiberglass.

Our final stargazing tent comes from Big Agnes and is a great tent for three people. This tent is very easy to pitch and pull down, and the tent poles are all color-coded for convenience. The inside of the tent has several cool features like media pockets that let you route ear buds to and from your devices with relative easy. I also liked the fact that this tent has two doors, which means that you won’t have to disturb your tentmates late at night.

PROS

  • It’s made of ripstop nylon, which makes it very durable.
  • It has a very tight pitch, which means that it stands up to harsh weather better than many other tents.
  • The Big Agnes has four total guy points, which helps when you’re securing the tent.
  • It’s easy to setup and tear down.
  • It offers a nice clear view of the sky.

CONS

  • It’s supposed to accommodate three, but really, it’s designed for two adults.
  • The zipper has a tendency to stick.

​What to Look for in a Stargazing Tent

Mesh Location

This should be a major consideration, especially if you want to see the night sky. As these are stargazing tents, they should definitely have a mesh roof somewhere in their construction. In my experience, the tents that have mesh towards the top are best when you want to lay and look up at the sky, but the ones that have meshing along the upper edges can provide a good view as well. In most models, there are rainflies that protect the occupants of the tent from the elements. When the night sky is clear and there’s no precipitation, you can typically remove these and use the mesh as a window to some excellent night sky viewing opportunities.

Ease of Setup

I remember years of frustrated family trips where my dad would get so angry at how hard the tent was to set up securely. These days, many of the major brands like Coleman, Rei, and Kelty have some fairly easy to setup tents, but there are still models out there that can be a pain in the neck. With this in mind, look for tents that have these features so that you can set them up relatively easily.

Typically, I prefer tent poles that are color-coded. These provide a quick and easy way for you to quickly ascertain which pole you’re working with. Additionally, it’s also useful when a tent uses J-hooks or standard tent clips to attach to the poles. As a general rule, if you want a quicker setup, pick a tent that has fewer poles, though you want to have more for increased stability.

Shock-cording is also very useful. This feature ensures that the poles stay together because they have an elastic cord running through the center of each segment of the pole, which keep the poles together. This makes the poles easy to assemble, even when you’re not working with much light.​

Ability to Repel Bugs

I’ve camped and woke up to an arm virtually covered in large bug bites, so I always try to find tents that repel things like mosquitoes and other creepy crawlies. If you’re going to be in a wet and humid area in the summer, then I suggest grabbing a tent with a nice summer screen; these provide good ventilation in the heat and will keep the majority of the insects out of your tent.

If you want the absolute best performance for keeping bugs out, many campers consider no-see-um meshing to be the absolute best. I find that this mesh is usually inherently great for stargazing because this mesh (with a few exceptions) tends to have very small holes that block pests like midges, but will also give you a fairly good view of the night sky.

Tent Size

When you’re going away for several days, it’s important to have enough room for all of your travelmates. Tent capacity is often described very liberally because it’s not taking into account anything other than the bare minimum of space. While a tent may be rated for three tentmates, in reality, with three people inside the tent, you may find it to be a little cramped during your trip.

It’s a good rule of thumb to ignore the idea that a three or four person tent will sleep that number of people. If you want a comfortable experience, I would assume a three person tent accommodates two, a four person tent accommodates three, and so on.

As a matter of fact, some campers suggest going for a tent that is rated for two more people than what you’ll be bringing. This is especially useful if you’re going to be packing bedding, extra baggage, or if any of the tentmates are a little larger.

Additionally, a queen sized air mattress will take up a lot of space, so you’d be better off with a three or four-person tent if you’ll be bringing just one other person. Also, don’t neglect thinking about the vertical space of the tent as well. The last thing you want is for taller tentmates to need to sleep uncomfortably. You’ll also want room for everyone to be able to sit up and move around comfortably inside the tent.

Useful Features

Bathtub-Style Floor

This is a useful feature to have in a tent, when it rains, because this can prevent leaks from occurring. By extending upwards it blocks any pooling water under the tent from actually seeping into the tent.

Fabric

I have a tendency to camp in rough areas, which is why I tend to use tents that are comprised of tougher fabrics so that I don’t have to worry about accidental tears and leaks. Here are a few examples of tent fabrics:

PVC – Polyvinyl chloride is a waterproof material that is used in larger tents. It’s a bit heavier, but it will give you a lot of protection, though it has a tendency to gather condensation.

Polyester – Typically polyester comes in coatings and you can get some good waterproofing out of them. A bonus of polyester tents is that they don’t shrink or get baggy when exposed to rain. In addition, the material will not fade when it is exposed to sunlight, which will ensure that the tent you purchase lasts longer.

Polycotton Canvas – This is a mixture of cotton and polyester. This blends the classic cotton material with polyester, which makes it stronger. It can be coated to resist water as well.​

Nylon – Nylon is a type of fabric that is great for a tent because it does not absorb water that much, which means that if you are caught in a rainstorm, the tent will not leak. In addition, the material is very lightweight, so many smaller tents are made out of this material so that they can be carried easily; making it an ideal tent for when you are backpacking to a specific area to stargaze. The downside to this material is that it can be damaged by the sun, so it may not be as durable as other options.​

Standard Cotton – This is the best fabric to keep you cool during those hot summer nights, but it is not commonly used in tent designs because cotton is a very heavy material that makes tents made out of it inconvenient to carry.​

Conclusion

I hope this guide helped you find your tent. Gazing up at the night sky while camping is amazing and each of these products is excellent for your camping trips. Though, if I was to select a favorite, I think I’d pick the Sundome 4 Person Tent. This tent has a nice amount of spacing for a couple and unique features like the front “porch” area are really nice additions for the average camper. All of this combined can make for a great night of stargazing with your friends and family.

The Best Smartwatch for Hiking in 2024

young woman hiker checking the altimeter on sports watch at mountain peak

Gadgets and the outdoors do not really go that well together. Water, heat, dust, and mud can all wreak havoc on anything hi-tech. But hiking watches are a different breed altogether. They have been designed specifically to withstand the rigors of nature. And they are also capable of handling multiple tasks. The best hiking smartwatch is one that combines the job of a timekeeper with a compass, an altimeter and many other things.

In this article we will review the following smartwatches for hiking:

Top 5 Best Hiking Watches

If you want a truckload of features at a slightly reduced price-point, the Garmin Fenix 3 Sapphire might be a sound choice. Released in 2015, it has been replaced by the newer Garmin 5, but still packs some serious punch in terms of features. The Fenix 3 is an all-rounder, with sensors that make it a great sports watch as well as a hiking/outdoors watch.

PROS

  • It has a very durable build quality with metal bezel and Sapphire glass.
  • The GPS/GLONASS system is quick and easy to use.
  • Has all the important navigation features like compass, barometer, and altimeter.
  • The full color digital display is capable of showing a lot of data.
  • Despite the presence of the GPS, the battery life is excellent, with some great power-saving options.
  • The watch is waterproof and you can safely go swimming with it.
  • Has a lot of fitness training sensors and “activity tracker” features, including an optional heart rate monitor.
  • Can connect and sync to smartphones/PC with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.

CONS

  • The watch is quite big and heavy, especially with the default steel bezel.
  • There are a lot of settings are configuration options to take care of, with just five different buttons.
  • The screen is quite dark, with visibility issues.
  • The GPS has serious accuracy issues at times, so you may have to depend on other options for navigation.

After Garmin, Suunto is another big name in the field of smartwatches. The Traverse collection was originally released in 2015 for outdoor enthusiasts, and has all the bells and whistles you would expect from a premium model. But if anything can be said against this watch, it is just that it doesn’t really have any stand out feature. If you want a really solid smartwatch for outdoor use with GPS/GLONASS at a lower price, the Suunto might be a better choice than Garmin.

PROS

  • The Traverse has a very understated and elegant design, with extremely sturdy build quality.
  • It has all the navigation features including GPS, compass, barometer and altimeter.
  • The display has good visibility under all lighting conditions and show a wealth of data in the form of routes, maps, and graphs.
  • It can connect to your smartphone using Bluetooth.
  • There are sensors that record vital signs and workout data, like heart rate, speed, ascent, etc.

CONS

  • Battery life in the Traverse is lower than the competition, especially with GPS turned on.
  • There are also occasional accuracy issues with the navigation sensors.
  • Does not have WiFi.
  • Not suitable for swimming.
  • It does not have a color display.

If you want the absolute latest GPS enabled smartwatch from a major brand, the Fenix 5 might be a great choice for you. It is quite expensive, but it features a lot of improvements over its predecessor, the Garmin 3. There are a lot of options to choose from, with three different sizes, each with its own variants. In total, you can choose from at least 14 different variants of the Fenix 5. It is one of the few watches we have reviewed that comes with a dedicated “Hiking Mode.”

PROS

  • There is something for everybody, with a lot of variants to choose from.
  • Excellent multisports features, with activity trackers and specialized modes.
  • 100m waterproof, so you can go out swimming with it.
  • Excellent battery life.
  • Offers both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • The GPS and GLONASS works quite well, with best in class performance.
  • Great display, with good color settings.
  • The navigation sensors all offer quite accurate readings.

CONS

  • The software does have a tendency to freeze up occasionally.
  • Since this is the latest premium model, the price is quite high.

The Ambit3 Peak is another great GPS watch from Suunto. It has all the smart features that you can expect from a watch in this class. It has been around for a few years now, and so you can expect to get it at a reduced price, which is always a good thing. It lacks a color display and dedicated maps function, but it has got its basics right. You get all the navigation sensors in addition to the GPS, along with other activity trackers/sensors as well.

PROS

  • GPS locking is fast and accurate.
  • Battery life is almost comparable to the newer Fenix 5, which is quite good.
  • Silicone band is very comfortable to wear and offers a snug fit.
  • Has dedicated modes for running, cycling, swimming, mountaineering and hiking, among others.
  • It can connect to your phone app using Bluetooth.

CONS

  • The watch is quite big and bulky, and might pose a problem for some people.
  • There are no advanced customization options, in terms of design, strap, etc.
  • The screen in black and white, and the space is quite limited and cannot show a lot of data.
  • Figuring out the button controls is not intuitive and can take some time to get used to.

The Pathfinder from Casio is a bit of an odd one out in this list. It does not have a fully “smart” feature list, and is more of an advanced digital watch with a bunch of useful navigation features. It is also the most affordable watches in our shortlist. If you don’t care about apps, connectivity, and activity tracking sensors, the Pathfinder may be the best hiking watch for you.

PROS

  • It is solar powered, so you don’t have to worry about charging as long as sunlight is available.
  • Has all the basic navigation features like digital compass, altimeter, barometer, and even a thermometer.
  • Rugged and tough build, with stainless steel bezel and mineral glass.
  • Outstanding value for money.
  • Very simple and straightforward device, very easy to use.
  • The display, though very limited, is quite crisp and easily readable.
  • It is water resistant, and can survive the occasional drops and splashes.

CONS

  • Does not have any advanced smartwatch features.
  • There are not connectivity options.
  • No GPS option.
  • The default strap is rather uncomfortable and might need changing.

Hiking watch buying guide

To qualify for outdoor duty, a smartphone watch needs to have several key features. These days, smart watches come bundled with so many different features, it is very easy to get overwhelmed! But the basics are what matters the most, and these include durability, good battery life, an optimal mix of useful sensors, and lest we forget, accurate timekeeping as well! Here is a short overview of some of the features (core and optional) too look for in a hiking watch.

Primary Concern – Durability

An outdoors watch isn’t worth buying unless it is designed to survive in harsh conditions. When it comes to hiking watches, durability pertains mainly to two things:

  • ​How rugged its construction is
  • How impervious its innards are to the elements, like water and dust

Rugged watches will have a very tough and durable strap, and a scratch/shatter-proof lens on its face. The more expensive premium models these days come with special Sapphire glass, like the latest iPhones. Waterproof or at least some level of water-resistant build is essential in hiking and outdoor watches.

Core Sensors – The “B-A-C”

The core functions of a good hiking watch can be be described by the simple acronym B-A-C. It stands for Barometer, Altimeter, and Compass. This trio of gadgets can be considered the holy trinity of outdoor survival and exploration. Any modern hiking smartwatch worth it’s salt will carry these three features without fail.

Barometer

Having this sensor on your watch helps you keep an eye on the atmospheric pressure. This will help you keep on top of local weather conditions and give you an early indication of any abrupt change in weather.

High atmospheric pressure is usually associated with clear skies and sunny weather. Lower atmospheric pressure on the other hand, is more common during overcast and rainy situations. And any sudden drops in temperature is usually a sign of an approaching storm or stormy weather.

Smartwatches with this sensor will give live readings as well as graphs that track the changes in pressure over time. Almost all of them also include a “storm warning” alarm feature, programmed to trigger in situations where extreme drops ins atmospheric pressure happens. A timely alert can help you find shelter before the storms hit.

Altimeter

When you are out in the hills, this sensor will help you know your exact altitude, or height above sea level. An altimeter is a handy device that can help you figure out your position on a map. Smartwatches use two different methods to calculate this, depending on the presence or absence of a GPS function.

In watches without GPS, the traditional method uses atmospheric pressure readings from the barometer to calculate the altitude. But modern GPS-based altimeters are more accurate and reliable than the traditional ones. And unlike barometric altimeters, these are also easier to use, since they don’t require any calibration to function accurately.

Compass

This probably does not require any explanation. A compass help you get your bearings out in the wild. If all else fails, you can always depend on your compass and a map to help triangulate your current location.

Helpful Extras – Secondary Features

GPS

These days, a GPS/GLONASS based systems are preferred as they are very easy to use and provide accurate real time data. But when it comes to smartwatches, GPS comes with its own unique challenges and unavoidable trade-offs.

The feature requires a lot of power to operate, and a watch with GPS will drain its batteries much faster than a watch without it. As a result, many manufacturers opt out of including this feature in their models in order to improve the battery life. Generally, the more expensive, feature packed watches will sport this feature.

Thermometer

Though not a necessity as such, having an accurate grip on the temperature conditions doesn’t hurt, especially when you are doing strenuous activity. When you are out camping in places with extreme variations in temperature, you can use a thermometer to decide the level of protection you need when inside a tent.

Apps, Software, Advanced Connectivity

These are some of the features that you can expect from a smartwatch. The ability to connect to your smartphone or PC can come in handy, during the preparation stage of your hike/trip. You can upload/share route maps, and other important data between your devices. But once you are far away from modern amenities like WiFi or cell phone networks, these features become of secondary importance!

Handy Tips and Hints

  • Always keep a fallback option, a “Plan B” if you will. Gadgets can die, and if your smartwatch fails or runs out of juice in the middle of a hike, you need to have backup options, like a real compass.
  • Don’t depend too much on the GPS. There are always dead-zones out there, where the GPS facility is unable to link to a satellite. This is why it is always better to bring along some actual maps.
  • Keep the batteries fully charged and bring along charging options or extra batteries if you have a GPS function on your watch.

In conclusion, treat your smartwatch as a handy tool that you can use on the go, without having to reach for a map or compass. You should never depend entirely on the features of your hiking watch, no matter how good or expensive a model it is. They are useful, but they may not provide the same level of accuracy/reliability as say, a handheld GPS device, compass or barometer.

The Best Portable Camping Toilets

camping toilet

Camping is one of the best experiences a family can share together. It is a fantastic way to connect to nature, get away from technology, and have a break from the stresses of everyday life. If you have never been camping, now is the perfect time to start and it couldn’t be easier!

One of the main things people always ask is, “How am I supposed to go to the bathroom while on my camping trip?” For many the answer would be: “You simply do your business in the woods.” But for a lot of people, this does not seem safe nor sanitary. The good news is there have been huge developments in camping toilets, allowing you to stay clean while doing your business in the outdoors.

In this article we will be reviewing the following portable camping toilets for camping:

Top 5 Portable Toilets For Camping

Camco is the first brand known for making high-quality camping products at competitive prices. This specific product, when compared to others on this list, leans towards the cheaper side. You can either choose to buy this product in the 2.6-gallon size or the 5.3-gallon size, giving you plenty of room to do your business. The holding tank is detachable on this travel toilet.

One of the worst things about cheap travel toilets is the smell. There is no way to stop waste from smelling bad, but there are various ways to keep that smell in. The Camco 41545 Travel Toilet has a valve that seals tight, locking in unpleasant odors and protecting against any leakage.

The pump on this travel toilet is a bellows type, making it very easy to use and flush that waste into the compartment. To fasten the tank securely to the toilet, there are side latches equipped in place to make this a fast and easy process.

The Camco 41545 Travel Toilet measures 16.4” by 16.25” by 18.4” and weighs 11.7 pounds when empty. When it is filled up however, it weighs 56 pounds.

The inside of the tank that holds the waste has a slick surface that makes the removal of your waste efficient and easy. The lid on this product also can be closed to transport it easily, but can also be completely removed. This is a huge benefit, especially if you want to do a thorough clean of your product (which we highly recommend).

The material the Camco 41545 Travel Toilet is made out of is ABS resin that is very durable and will not scratch. The width of the seat on the outside measures 12.6”, while the inside of the seat measures 8.4”.

PROS

  • Easy to use
  • Very easy to clean
  • Locks in place
  • Does not spill
  • Keeps odors in
  • Affordable price
  • Can be used for little kids’ toilet

CONS

  • A bit small for larger sized people

This specific toilet is one of the cheaper options on our list, so if you are looking to save some money while purchasing a camping toilet, this may be the one to look at.

The Reliance Products Hassock Portable Lightweight Self-Contained Toilet is extremely lightweight, making it very easy to take mobile. This is integral for anyone looking to take it with them while they are camping. To keep things smelling fresh and for the device to clean, it comes with an Eco Fresh packet.

The seat has been contoured to increase comfort for the user. There is an inner splash cover on this toilet to diminish any messes you may have, especially if you are using it in a vehicle. There is also a toilet paper holder equipped on it, for easy storage.

The inner bucket of this toilet is removable, making it very easy to maintain its cleanliness. Another product that Reliance makes that is great is their “Double Doodie bags” and this travel toilet is compatible with them.

Once set up, this toilet measures 14.7” x 14.7” x 14” (LxWxH) and weighs 5 lbs. when empty. It has been designed for campers and for people who own a boat and want a toilet on board.

If for any reason you are not satisfied with your product, or there is a defect brought on by the manufacturer, there is Reliance’ 5-year warranty on this product.

PROS

  • Comes with a splash cover
  • Easy to clean
  • Can be used on a boat
  • Comes with an Eco Fresh Packet
  • Toilet paper holder on it
  • Holds a lot of waste
  • Very sturdy, even for bigger people

CONS

  • Need to keep buying bags for it
  • Made of thin plastic

Thetford is known for creating high-end products to take on the go with you. At first glance, Porta Potti is the coolest looking camping toilet. It looks high end and feels high end. The reason we reiterate that it is higher end, is because the price is reflected in that. This toilet is the most expensive on our list, but Thetford is known for that. Whenever examining a product that is more expensive, we want to make sure there are more than enough features to justify that price point.

This Thetford Portable Toilet is very sleek looking with a modern design to look like a toilet at home. The seat height has been placed at a comfortable level, making it great for both short and tall people. The bowl size has been increased when compared to other products, and is able to hold a lot of waste. There is an integrated toilet paper holder, making it easy to get rid of that waste and to always have some on the go with you. Unlike other products, the Thetford Potta Potti is equipped with a battery-powered flush. The controls for this flush are hidden inside the toilet.

There is an indicator on the outside of this product that lets you know when you are going to need to add more fresh water, and when you are going to have to empty the tank. This is crucial, as you never want waste to build up to the point where the device stops working. There is an easy-to-use carrying handle on the water tank, making it simple to fill it up and keep the toilet full and working.

There is also an optional hold down kit available on the Porta Potti White Thetford Corp Toilet. The dimensions of this toilet are 17.5/8” high, 17-3/4” deep, and 15-1/4” wide. The tank can hold up to 4 gallons of water, and can also hold up to 5.5 gallons of water with waste in it. On the average, it is capable of 56 flushes per tank. There is a pour-out spout located on the tank that is easy to use and empty. This is a great way to empty the waste you do not want built up in your toilet.

There is also a cap that can go right onto the pour out valve after cleaning, making it simple to maintain sanitary conditions. This device is also odorless and leak proof to avoid any unwanted messes.

PROS

  • A more high-end toilet
  • Battery powered
  • Holds a lot of water
  • Can hold a lot of waste
  • Easy to clean
  • Comes with toilet holder
  • Carrying handle to fill it up
  • Great for all sizes
  • Pour out spout for easy emptying

CONS

  • A bit expensive when compared to others

This is a 5.3 gallon travel potty, able to hold a lot of water and a lot of waste as well. The material this is made of is polyethylene of a really high density. This makes it very durable and able to last a long time.

There is a fresh water reservoir holder equipped in this portable toilet, that holds a lot of water and will never mix with the waste water. The waste tank is separate and will also hold a lot of waste that you desire.

The seat post measures 14” long and 14” wide. It is built to hold anyone up to 300 lbs., making it great for most people. There are no external connections required with this device, making it perfect for being in the outdoors.

There is a side valve on this product that has a very tight seal, protecting you against any leakage that you do not want. This side valve also locks in odors so this toilet can be around guests, and you will not be able to smell a thing.

As for flushing, this device can easily flush and rinse the entire bowl clean after every time. It is connected to a water pump that releases a fresh stream of water with every flush.

PROS

  • Can hold a lot of waste and water
  • Flush cleans the bowl clean
  • Dumping it is easy
  • Very durable design

CONS

  • The lid on the bottom does not screw on or off easily
  • Easy to mis-screw which will lead to leakage

The 92850 has an easy-to-read indicator on the outside, so you can tell when the tank is empty and full. This can really be a life saver for those of you who want to ensure you empty it when it needs to be.

As for emptying, you want a camping toilet that is easy to empty, there is the exclusive Thetford pour out spout, that is easy to use and gets rid of all the waste you want.

To decrease any form of smell from the waste, there is also a sealed valve to keep the odors in. The seat and the cover can be removed so you can regularly clean them down. It uses a piston pump flush to clean the bowl every time after using.

PROS

  • Comes with a flush
  • Locks odors in
  • Easy to clean
  • Cover and seat can be removed
  • Indicator telling you when full
  • Pour out spout is great

CONS

  • More expensive than most

How to choose a camping toilet

When choosing a camping toilet, the first thing you want to look for is cleanliness. Whenever dealing with anything to do with waste, you need something that is going to help you clean it. This can include buying a camping toilet with removable options so you can easily clean the cover. This also means that the camping toilet is equipped with flushing capabilities. This is ideal, so waste does not just sit there under the lid, but that it flushes naturally like a real toilet. Some flushing mechanisms are manual, while others are battery powered.

Another thing to note when choosing a camping toilet is that it keeps odors in. Waste does stink a lot, and you do not want it ruining your experience, especially if you have to keep it in a confined space such as a RV; many of the top-notch camping toilets have the ability to do this. As well, you want an easy way to empty the waste. This can be done by simply buying one with an easy-to-use spout for pouring it out.

Ensure the camping toilet you purchase is leak proof, as you want to avoid waste messes before they can happen. By following these guidelines, you will purchase one of the best camping toilets out there.

Camping Toilet Types

  • Bucket-style toilet is a fancy bucket with a seat cover. It’s cheap and puncture-resistant but requires a flat surface and takes quite a bit of space in a car. Also, it’s easy to move around and flush as any other bucket.
  • Collapsible toilets are foldable constructions with the main goal to seat you comfortably. They don’t provide any means for waste disposal which should be done via attached camping garbage bag. The main benefit is the compactness and relative low price.
  • Flushable toilet are as close as you can get to a normal toilet in your home. The comfort is the king here. There is a waste system built-in which allows flushing and keeps odors inside. However, they are the bulkiest and the most expensive among all types. 

Final Verdict

While we believe all six of the products above are great options, the one that is above the rest is The Thetford 92360 Porta Potti 550E Curve Portable Toilet. However, it is also the most expensive, and we understand that many will not want to spend that much money on a camping toilet. However, it comes with the most features, is battery powered and has a fantastic look. We highly recommend it, and if you want a cheaper option check out any of the other brands.

The Best Camping Hatchets And Axes For The Money

camping hatchet

Going camping in the woods soon? Make sure you get the best hatchet or axe for you trip. Why? You never know what you may come across in those woods and you may very well need one of these tools. Whether it is small shrubs and trees in a nice camping area or you need wood for making a fire, these cutting tools are always good to keep handy. But do you know what type of axe is best for you to use? Do you know how to choose an axe?

Well it’s a good thing you’re here. You will learn all about how you choose these tools and we will provide our top picks from the many products you can find for sale on the market today. Continue reading to get the best information about that axe or hatchet that you are about to buy.

In this article we will be reviewing the following axes and hatchets for camping and backpacking:

Top Hatchets and Axes

If you are looking for a hatchet that has a great blade for cutting, you will love this product from Estwing. It is a beautifully crafted item that is made from American steel. It is made in the USA and they have also placed an amazing leather grip on it. At 1.7 lbs, this hatchet has a great balance and temper. This is definitely a great tool to have with you as you go camping. If you need a hatchet that is very portable because of its weight and size, we highly recommend that you give this product a try. Keep the blade sharpened and we are sure that your cutting tasks will be much easier to complete. The blade of this hatchet comes hand sharpened already to give you a great cutting blade right from the beginning.

When you purchase this axe, you will receive a heavy-duty nylon sheath in the package. This sheath is designed to protect the blade as well as protect you from being harmed by the blade when it is not being used. Remember, that when you use this hatchet, you should always wear safety googles as debris can get in your eyes and cause damage.

PROS

  • Inexpensive
  • Made from great materials
  • Comes with a nylon sheath for protection

CONS

  • It is a bit light so it may not deliver much force

This amazing axe by Columbia River Knife and Tool is 2-in-1 solution combining an axe and a hammer in one. Because of how it is designed, there is a hammer head at the top which you can use to pound nails and other things. The blade of the axe is made from a very durable carbon steel, and the handle is made from Tennessee hickory.

This very amazing and durable axe should provide you with many years of fantastic service. And the best part about it is that it is not even expensive. Although it is not the cheapest product that you can find on the market today, it is nowhere near the price of an expensive axe. It definitely seems to be a great value product. If you need an axe that can do more than just chop and cut, you should carefully consider purchasing this one.

PROS

  • It includes a hammer head
  • Made from good quality materials

CONS

  • It does not come with a leather sheath

When you buy this hatchet, you should receive it with a leather sheath that is perfect for storing the hatchet when it is not in use as well as protect you from injury whenever you carry the hatchet around. This hatchet has a decent sized handle of 13” and the handle is curved. With a curved handle such as this, it is often easier to maneuver the hatchet and make larger chops. Weighing just about 2 lbs., it is the perfect size to deliver that good, forceful chop that you want to make in that piece of wood.

The hickory handle and steel blade both contribute to making this axe effective and durable. The head of the axe is even attached to the handle using a wooden and steel wedge. This makes sure that it is properly fastened so the blade should not get separated from the handle even when you chop the hardest wood.

It is the perfect tool to take camping or on a hike because of its small size and ability to get most chopping done effectively. If you are not buying this axe for camping purposes, it will also make a great tool to have for chopping fire wood as well as doing other jobs around the home.

PROS

  • It has a good weight so you can exert a lot of force when chopping
  • Curved handle
  • Made of durable materials

CONS

  • It may be a little heavy to carry around

Included with this Gransfors axe is an axe book and a 20-year guarantee; this is a mere indication of the astounding quality that you will receive when you purchase this item. The entire axe weighs 1.3 lbs, but it can deliver great force to chop, slice or cut wood.

This wildlife hatchet can be used for just about any cutting, chopping or slicing task. As is the case with many axes, you will receive a vegetable-tanned leather sheath for this product when you purchase it.

The handle of the hatchet is just 13.5 inches. It is made of hickory which is a very good type of wood for axe handles. It is durable and helps the user to deliver good force to any chopping task.

PROS

  • It comes with an axe book so you can learn about the axe
  • It has a 20-year guarantee
  • Easy to carry around

CONS

  • There is no wedge on the top of the handle

Small forest axe is made of premium materials and has a healthy price tag. This axe has a 19” handle that is made from hickory. With such a long handle, it is easy for you to exert a lot of force whenever you are chopping or cutting an item. The handle is also curved so that it feels much more natural to hold instead of an axe with a straight handle.

At just 1.5 lbs., this axe is very light so it should not add a lot of weight to any bag that you are carrying around. Although it may be a bit long.

When you purchase this product, you will also receive a grain-leather sheath in which to place the axe.

PROS

  • Premium quality
  • Long handle
  • Curved
  • Light
  • Comes with leather sheath

CONS

  • Expensive
  • May be too long for you

This is a single bit axe, but you can use it to chop or cut just about all types of wood among other things. The axe head is very securely fastened to the handle. In fact, at this price, this axe seems to be pretty well built.

The handle is just under 26” for a greater impact with every chop that you make. The entire axe is made in Sweden and once you purchase it, you should receive a leather edge cover to protect the blade. Remember, as a general rule for all axes, ensure that you grease the blade if you will not be using it for a long while. The grease will prevent any rust or oxidation from occurring so the blade does not get discolored and dull. It is also good to ensure that your axe remains sharp so you do not damage the blade when you are cutting things.

PROS

  • Comes with a leather edge

CONS

  • May be too long for you

Not every axe is easy to use with just one hand. Some are just hard to manipulate because they lack the balance needed to strike accurately; some are just way too heavy so you have to have a firm grip. This axe however, is perfect for using with just one hand. In fact, this is a selling point for this product. The handle is only 17” long. It is especially useful if you want to split small logs. It has a great balance plus a power to weight ratio that helps to maximize the amount of force that strikes any wood that you try to chop.

The axe comes with a lifetime warranty. This is an indication of the quality of the axe you will be receiving. Once you properly maintain it, you can pass this axe down to your children and they may have it for many years to come. This axe is just perfect for quick jobs that you have to do around the yard or in the forest. Moreover, it is not very heavy at just about 2 lbs., making it very portable.

PROS

  • Can be handled with one hand

CONS

  • Not good for big tasks

This Schrade axe is very inexpensive but it is very reliable and durable. It has a stainless steel axe head and a handle that is just about 5” long. It is extremely easy to carry around; since it only weighs 1.4 lbs., and is so small, it can fit just about anywhere. Unlike bigger axes, this small hatchet may even fit comfortably on a belt clip.

This axe is perfect for people who love outdoor adventures. It can help to clear pathways in the forest, chop small trees and much more. It even comes with its own sheath.

PROS

  • Budget-friendly
  • Lightweight
  • Comes with sheath

CONS

  • Not good for big tasks

Things to consider

Axe vs. hatchet

A hatchet is a smaller version of the axe. While the axe is typically 22” and longer, the hatchet tends to be a foot long. Because the axe is longer, when you swing it to chop a piece of wood, it tends to exert more force. But an axe tends to be much heavier and takes up a lot more space.

Double bit vs Single bit

The single bit cuts faster but the double bit has more balance and is versatile. Because the double bit has a greater balance, it provides accurate cuts and greater efficiency.

Length of the handle

The longer the handle, the more force with which you can swing, but longer handles mean that the axe takes up more space.

Curvature of the handle

Choose a curved handle if your axe has a single bit. It should feel more natural.

The weight of the head

If this will be your first axe, it is wise to use one that is not heavy (less than 5 lbs). The heavier axes are recommended for persons with experience.

The Best Camping Lanterns In 2024

camping lantern

Camping lanterns are very important if you are going to go camping for a few days, or if you are preparing for a blackout or another emergency where you are cut off from electricity but will need a light.

Because of the instances where you would need or want a camping lantern, many of these will feature and promote how long their lights will last, how durable they are, how bright they are, and how portable and easy to hang they are.

Some of the main features of these lanterns are going to be the durability of the lantern, how long the light will last, how dim or bright a light can become, and how water resistant it is. Durability and the longevity of the light within the lantern are probably the most important features.

There are different light modes for a camping lantern, typically ranging from dim to very bright, although a few have red light modes so it is a bit softer on the eyes. These are nice features to have included with your lantern so that you won’t blind yourself the second you turn it on in the darkness, or so you can very easily light up larger areas. Some lanterns can light areas of up to 30 feet pretty well from a single location. Water resistance isn’t as important, but it is very good in case there is unexpected rain while you are out camping.

Top 5 Lanterns for Camping

The AYL Starlight 330 is an LED camping lantern designed to provide you with bright light covering a large expanse of area. This is done by the reflective convex cap within the lantern, which allows up to 360° of light. This cover can be removed if you want more focused light that doesn’t go everywhere. The bulb within the lantern has an output of 600 lumens, which is pretty close to the highest a light bulb can put out. For reference, a light with 300 lumens is already a bright enough light to set out in the middle of your campsite while a 100 lumen light is perfect for inside your tent.

It comes with 3 different lighting modes: low, high, and flashing. These are easily switched between by cycling the switch for the light modes. High mode puts out 600 lumens and is perfect for a communal space. The flashing mode continuously turns on and to signal an emergency and puts out less lumens in order to preserve power.

Thanks to the hook that is on the bottom of the lantern, you can easily set it up almost anywhere you need a lantern to be. The lantern also has a water-resistant body that comes in a rubber and plastic housing to ensure there is minimal chance of water leaking in.

Even when turned off, the AYL Starlight has a green LED indicator light on it so you can always find your lantern. You will need 3 D batteries in order to use this lamp, which should last for 6 full days. It is also lightweight and easy to carry around as it weighs about .9 pounds and stands at 7.2” tall.

The Streamlight Siege Lantern can provide light all the way around the lantern in order to better light up the area in which you place it. This lantern comes with red and white LEDs within the light to be used with its five different output modes. Another handy feature in this lantern is the battery level indicator that is built into the on/off button.

The five modes of this lantern are high, medium, low, red, and red SOS. The high light mode provides 340 lumens, still plenty of light output to cover a larger area. The red light mode provides 10 lumens, which is just enough to illuminate a very small area in front of you when walking or to light up a small space within your tent. The red SOS mode flashes so that you can be found in the case of an emergency or signal to others that there is an emergency.

If you decide to use this lantern with the outer globe cover on, you can have it float in the water and it will operate for up to 1 meter of submersion. If you take it off, you can hang it from the D ring on the bottom of the lantern to provide the best lighting for a large area.

There is also a D ring on top of the lantern so you can hang it upright as well. If you choose to not use the D rings at all, it will still stay pretty stable and balanced on most surfaces thanks to its rubber molded base. The handle on top of the lantern makes it easier to carry around with you and can help stabilize it if you decide to place it on its side for any reason.

This 14-oz. lantern is pretty lightweight but requires 3 “D” batteries in order to run. The handle makes for convenient carrying and its size means it is easily stowed away.

The Goal Zero Lighthouse Lantern can be charged three different ways: with solar power, through a USB port, or using the hand crank on top of the lantern. With the USB port, you can even charge your phones or tablets while the power is out or you are out camping. While charging a device, you can also use the hand crank to make sure power keeps going and that your lantern doesn’t run out of power because you are charging something. The hand crank is very slow to charge the lantern, so don’t solely rely on that to charge your lantern and your device.

The lantern also has collapsible legs that fold up against the lantern and can be used as a stand to make the lantern a little taller. The legs are also helpful if you want to ensure that the lantern is entirely stable on the surface you place it on. It sheds 360° of light for you to use, but you can also use only half of the lantern in order to save power and direct your light in a particular direction. The handle and the magnet on the lantern help increase the number of places you can put your lantern. You could also use the legs of the lantern as a way to hang it if you wanted to use the lantern upside down.

It weighs 1.2 lbs., so it is convenient enough for you to carry around and use as a flashlight, if needed. It stands at 5” tall when the collapsible legs are not in use. Its size and weight makes for much more convenient and easier storage amongst your bags or in your closet space with other emergency supplies. The batteries it takes are excusive Goal Zero batteries that have both polarities on each end and can only be bought through their website.

The UST 7-Day Lantern has a light that gets up to 310 lumens bright. This isn’t bright enough to light up a large communal area well, but comes pretty close. The lantern also comes with 3 light modes: high, low, and SOS mode. It should run fine on the low light mode continuously for 10 days, or a little over 1 day if it is used continuously on the high setting. SOS mode flashes and should last around a week if that is the only mode used on the lantern during that time.

The rubberized housing of the lantern helps prevent the lantern from breaking easily upon impact when it falls. The rubber also glows in the dark so you can find the lantern more easily. The rubber only really glows well after it has been placed in the light for a while, so it may not be as good after it has been stored away for a while. Rubber also surrounds the on/off button and in between removable components of the lantern, like the battery cover and the lantern’s casing. The LED bulbs are advertised as never breaking or burning out.

At 6.8” tall and weighing about 15 oz., it is very lightweight and pretty compact for easy packing in your bag and hanging around camp. It has a recessed hook built into the lantern base so it can be used as a downlight as well as a standing lantern. This small-sized camping lantern also takes 6 AA batteries in order for it to be used. However, it is not meant to be water resistant; it is simply weather resistant; be wary using it around water.

The UST 30-Day Lantern comes with 4 light settings: high, medium, low, and SOS flashing. On the low setting, it is meant to last up to 30 days and puts out about 29 lumens of light. This is enough to light a small space within your tent but may not be enough to read by. On its highest setting, it lasts 32 hours straight with 300 lumens being put out, a perfect amount to light up a larger shared space. The SOS flashing mode will flash the lantern on and off continuously until you switch it off or it runs out of power.

It also comes with a rubberized housing and is water resistant. This means that it can handle a little bit of water but should not be used out in the rain or near a large body of water. The rubber housing makes it much more impact resistant and far less likely it break, even if it is dropped on cement. The rubber also glows in the dark but, like UST’s 10-Day Lantern, it should be in the light for a while before it glows well again.

There is also a green LED indicator that continuously flashes on the lantern that is meant to show you where your lantern is in the darkness. The globe is removable and can be taken off when you are going to use the lantern as a downlight or in order to display the SOS flashing mode better. Removing the globe means that the lantern is no longer water resistant, so be careful when you take it off.

The lantern itself weighs around 1 lb., making it very lightweight and compact for a light that lasts for so long. It takes 3 “D” batteries to use it and also includes a recessed hook on the bottom of the lantern.

The AYL Starlight 330 is an LED camping lantern designed to provide you with bright light covering a large expanse of area. This is done by the reflective convex cap within the lantern, which allows up to 360° of light. This cover can be removed if you want more focused light that doesn’t go everywhere. The bulb within the lantern has an output of 600 lumens, which is pretty close to the highest a light bulb can put out. For reference, a light with 300 lumens is already a bright enough light to set out in the middle of your campsite while a 100 lumen light is perfect for inside your tent.

It comes with 3 different lighting modes: low, high, and flashing. These are easily switched between by cycling the switch for the light modes. High mode puts out 600 lumens and is perfect for a communal space. The flashing mode continuously turns on and to signal an emergency and puts out less lumens in order to preserve power.

Thanks to the hook that is on the bottom of the lantern, you can easily set it up almost anywhere you need a lantern to be. The lantern also has a water-resistant body that comes in a rubber and plastic housing to ensure there is minimal chance of water leaking in.

Even when turned off, the AYL Starlight has a green LED indicator light on it so you can always find your lantern. You will need 3 D batteries in order to use this lamp, which should last for 6 full days. It is also lightweight and easy to carry around as it weighs about .9 pounds and stands at 7.2” tall.

PROS

    CONS

      The Streamlight Siege Lantern can provide light all the way around the lantern in order to better light up the area in which you place it. This lantern comes with red and white LEDs within the light to be used with its five different output modes. Another handy feature in this lantern is the battery level indicator that is built into the on/off button.

      The five modes of this lantern are high, medium, low, red, and red SOS. The high light mode provides 340 lumens, still plenty of light output to cover a larger area. The red light mode provides 10 lumens, which is just enough to illuminate a very small area in front of you when walking or to light up a small space within your tent. The red SOS mode flashes so that you can be found in the case of an emergency or signal to others that there is an emergency.

      If you decide to use this lantern with the outer globe cover on, you can have it float in the water and it will operate for up to 1 meter of submersion. If you take it off, you can hang it from the D ring on the bottom of the lantern to provide the best lighting for a large area.

      There is also a D ring on top of the lantern so you can hang it upright as well. If you choose to not use the D rings at all, it will still stay pretty stable and balanced on most surfaces thanks to its rubber molded base. The handle on top of the lantern makes it easier to carry around with you and can help stabilize it if you decide to place it on its side for any reason.

      This 14-oz. lantern is pretty lightweight but requires 3 “D” batteries in order to run. The handle makes for convenient carrying and its size means it is easily stowed away.

      PROS

        CONS

          The Goal Zero Lighthouse Lantern can be charged three different ways: with solar power, through a USB port, or using the hand crank on top of the lantern. With the USB port, you can even charge your phones or tablets while the power is out or you are out camping. While charging a device, you can also use the hand crank to make sure power keeps going and that your lantern doesn’t run out of power because you are charging something. The hand crank is very slow to charge the lantern, so don’t solely rely on that to charge your lantern and your device.

          The lantern also has collapsible legs that fold up against the lantern and can be used as a stand to make the lantern a little taller. The legs are also helpful if you want to ensure that the lantern is entirely stable on the surface you place it on. It sheds 360° of light for you to use, but you can also use only half of the lantern in order to save power and direct your light in a particular direction. The handle and the magnet on the lantern help increase the number of places you can put your lantern. You could also use the legs of the lantern as a way to hang it if you wanted to use the lantern upside down.

          It weighs 1.2 lbs., so it is convenient enough for you to carry around and use as a flashlight, if needed. It stands at 5” tall when the collapsible legs are not in use. Its size and weight makes for much more convenient and easier storage amongst your bags or in your closet space with other emergency supplies. The batteries it takes are excusive Goal Zero batteries that have both polarities on each end and can only be bought through their website.

          PROS

            CONS

              The UST 7-Day Lantern has a light that gets up to 310 lumens bright. This isn’t bright enough to light up a large communal area well, but comes pretty close. The lantern also comes with 3 light modes: high, low, and SOS mode. It should run fine on the low light mode continuously for 10 days, or a little over 1 day if it is used continuously on the high setting. SOS mode flashes and should last around a week if that is the only mode used on the lantern during that time.

              The rubberized housing of the lantern helps prevent the lantern from breaking easily upon impact when it falls. The rubber also glows in the dark so you can find the lantern more easily. The rubber only really glows well after it has been placed in the light for a while, so it may not be as good after it has been stored away for a while. Rubber also surrounds the on/off button and in between removable components of the lantern, like the battery cover and the lantern’s casing. The LED bulbs are advertised as never breaking or burning out.

              At 6.8” tall and weighing about 15 oz., it is very lightweight and pretty compact for easy packing in your bag and hanging around camp. It has a recessed hook built into the lantern base so it can be used as a downlight as well as a standing lantern. This small-sized camping lantern also takes 6 AA batteries in order for it to be used. However, it is not meant to be water resistant; it is simply weather resistant; be wary using it around water.

              PROS

                CONS

                  The UST 30-Day Lantern comes with 4 light settings: high, medium, low, and SOS flashing. On the low setting, it is meant to last up to 30 days and puts out about 29 lumens of light. This is enough to light a small space within your tent but may not be enough to read by. On its highest setting, it lasts 32 hours straight with 300 lumens being put out, a perfect amount to light up a larger shared space. The SOS flashing mode will flash the lantern on and off continuously until you switch it off or it runs out of power.

                  It also comes with a rubberized housing and is water resistant. This means that it can handle a little bit of water but should not be used out in the rain or near a large body of water. The rubber housing makes it much more impact resistant and far less likely it break, even if it is dropped on cement. The rubber also glows in the dark but, like UST’s 10-Day Lantern, it should be in the light for a while before it glows well again.

                  There is also a green LED indicator that continuously flashes on the lantern that is meant to show you where your lantern is in the darkness. The globe is removable and can be taken off when you are going to use the lantern as a downlight or in order to display the SOS flashing mode better. Removing the globe means that the lantern is no longer water resistant, so be careful when you take it off.

                  The lantern itself weighs around 1 lb., making it very lightweight and compact for a light that lasts for so long. It takes 3 “D” batteries to use it and also includes a recessed hook on the bottom of the lantern.

                  PROS

                    CONS

                      The Best Camping Cooler For 2024

                      Have you ever gone camping? If you have, you know that a cooler is a very important item to have. Not only will it keep your drinks and water cool, it will also help to prevent perishable foods from going bad. It really is just a simpler version of a refrigerator.

                      Whenever I go camping, apart from my tent or sleeping bag, my cooler is the most important thing that I bring. Why? Over time I have learned that having fresh food and cool drinks helps to make the camping experience much more comfortable. If you have never been camping before but you will be going soon, don’t forget to bring your cooler with you. Don’t have one? No problem. It’s not very difficult to select the one that is best for your camping needs. With so many amazing features on coolers nowadays, I am sure that you will find it quite useful to have some insight as to the features that are essential in a camping cooler.

                      How to choose the right camping cooler for your next trip

                      When you are looking for a camping cooler, there are 4 very important features that you should look for.

                      Security

                      Security refers to the ability of the cooler to be locked.

                      The material

                      Soft camping coolers tend to be the cheapest. Plastic or metal coolers offer a higher level of durability but usually are more expensive.

                      In this article, we’re going to review the following coolers for camping:

                      Top 5 Coolers For Camping

                      If you are looking for a camping cooler because you will be out for a few days before heading back home, this is probably the perfect cooler for you. The RTIC Cooler 20 is robust and solidly constructed. It boasts a seamless roto-molded construction, which is classed as virtually impossible to destruct. The cooler can hold up to 20 quarts or 24 cans including ice, and although it is large, it is not very heavy. Even when it is full, you can easily lift it with the handle that comes attached to it. The cooler is able to keep ice for up to 10 days. It comes in either white or tan.

                      One other feature that you will find handy with this item is the integrated locking system. You don’t have to worry about items falling out as you move it from one place to the other, and if you are out camping, animals won’t be able to get inside. But you still can open and close it with ease, as it has heavy-duty rubber T-latches.

                      If you have never heard of RTIC coolers, you should get acquainted with the brand as this is one of the many amazing products that this brand has to offer. Based on all the features that are in this cooler, it is certainly the best handheld camping cooler.

                      As the name suggests, this cooler is made from soft material and is well insulated to keep ice for up to 5 days with this camping cooler. One of the key benefits of the RTIC 20 Soft Pack is that it is very lightweight, making it ideal for those that don’t want to be lugging heavy coolers around.

                      It is ideal for a single person since it may not be able to hold enough drinks or food for 2 persons.

                      With a blue interior and grey exterior, this cooler is nicely designed. It has a strap attached so you can wear it to free your hands; of course, you can also carry it with your hand if you so desire. Take advantage of the exterior pockets on this soft cooler so you can maximize the number of things you place inside.

                      The downside of having a soft pack cooler such as this is that it does not offer the same level of protection as a hard case cooler. This means that there is a higher risk of the contents getting damaged. On the upside, the smaller size and flexibility of the product means that it will fit nicely into smaller spaces.

                      This camping cooler comes with a range of great features along with an impressive size. You can fit up to 204 cans into the cooler, which means that it is perfect for longer trips and camping excursions. Even at temperatures of 90°, it can keep ice for up to 6 days. The cooler utilizes special technology to provide extra insulation for additional ice retention.

                      The Coleman cooler is very sturdy in terms of its design and build. It is made from UVGuard materials, which means that it is protected from the damaging UV rays of the sun. It also comes with a leak-resistant channel drain, comfort-grip handles, and a lid-seat that can support up to 250 lbs. There are 4 cup holders integrated into the lid along with rust-resistant hardware. The cooler uses eco-friendly insulation and is quick and simple to clean.

                      The cooler is able to keep ice for up to 10 days, so if you are taking a longer trip it is ideal. With a capacity of up to 65 quarts, this cooler is definitely suitable for long trips.

                      This cooler comes with a number of features, one of which is the integrated locking system. This helps to keep the contents of the cooler safe and protected. In addition, the cooler has heavy-duty rubber T-latches, which provide an easy opening and closing mechanism.

                      The cooler can hold up to 64 cans, but despite its size 19” x 19” x 31.5”, it can still be carried by one person.

                      YETI makes a range of high-quality camping coolers, one of which is the YETI Roadie 20 Cooler. This cooler is compact and highly portable with 20-quart capacity and room for up to 14 cans. You will benefit from T-Rex Lid Latches, which are made from heavy-duty rubber. The technology used with the latches means that they are designed not to break.

                      This cooler comes with sturdy roto-molded construction, which makes it virtually impossible to destroy and suitable for all sorts of environments. When it is empty, it weighs 15 pounds, which is a bit heavy but still be transported by one person.

                      You will pay a little more for this cooler than the average standard cooler, but you do benefit from the high quality. This is a cooler that is designed to stand the test of time, so if you go camping on a regular basis, it is ideal. Its durability means that you won’t have to worry about having to invest in a replacement cooler, which will enable you to save money over time.

                      Final Verdict

                      With all these amazing products, it is a bit difficult to determine which one is the best. However, there is one cooler that seems to offer a little bit more than the others. Not only is it the most inexpensive cooler, but it has two unique features that no other cooler has. It can be used as a seat and it has 4 cup holders on the top of the lid. If you haven’t figured out which cooler it is, it is the Coleman 120 Quart Coastal Xtreme Series Marine Cooler. For the price, this cooler seems to have a lot to offer. It checks all the boxes when it comes to features that you should look for in a cooler and then some. This includes its integrated UV protection, which will reduce the risk of sun damage to the cooler.

                      Although it is not a high-end product, it definitely seems like it can measure up to many of the high-end features that more expensive coolers have. You should be able to enjoy many camping trips with the cooler since it has such a durable construction. The only downside of this cooler is that its larger size may make transportation more difficult. However, if you are traveling in a vehicle, this shouldn’t be an issue at all.

                      The Best Camping Cot For The Money In 2024

                      Camping cot

                      If you have been camping or you will be going soon, you ought to know that having a comfortable place to sleep while camping is very important. While some people stick to the regular sleeping bags and tents, others prefer to use camping cots. Each sleeping device has its own set of advantages but I think that camping cots offer the most versatility and comfort. If you are about to purchase a camping cot, don’t dive in head first without learning about the important features to look for. Keep reading to find out some of the features and my top picks for some of the best camping cots that you can get online.

                      Top 10 Cots For Camping

                      This camping cot has a simple design but offers an extra wide area for sleeping. It has a foldable heavy-duty steel frame and can hold a person of up to 300lb. In term of height, this camping cot is suitable for anyone up to 6’2”. The design is lightweight but offers comfort and support. You can assemble it with speed and ease.

                      This lightweight cot is easy to transport and comes with a carry bag for greater ease and convenience. You can fold it into a compact size, which means that you can also store it with ease when it is not required. This cot comes at a very affordable price, making it perfect for those on a budget.

                      PROS

                      • Extra wide design
                      • Affordable pricing
                      • Easy to assemble
                      • Lightweight
                      • Holds up to 300lb and up to 6’2” in height

                      CONS

                      • Quite basic sleeping surface
                      • It’s a bit heavy

                      This camping cot enables you to enjoy superior comfort levels, as it comes with a thick foam mattress. This means that you can look forward to plenty of quality rest during your trip.

                      With its heavy-duty steel frame, this is a solid and robust camping cot. It is suitable for heights of up to 5’ 7”. It can also support weights of up to 275 lb. The cot has a coil suspension for support. It is also easy to transport, as it folds up into a compact size that should easily fit into the trunks of most cars.

                      The pricing of this camping cot is very reasonable, making it an affordable option for those who want to enjoy comfort but who also need to be mindful of budget. The product also comes with a limited one-year guarantee.

                      PROS

                      • Available at a very affordable price
                      • Easy to transport with a compact, foldable design
                      • Supports weight of up to 275lb
                      • Comfortable thick foam mattress
                      • Solid construction

                      CONS

                      • Not suited to adults above average height
                      • It doesn’t come with a carry bag/case
                      • It is a little heavy

                      The Coleman Converta comes with four back positions and two foot ones. You can use it in a reclined position if you want support for your neck and head while you read or relax. You can then change it to the flat position ready for sleeping. It has a tri-fold design, so there should be no problem getting it into a vehicle for transportation.

                      If you are tall, you are in luck with this cot because it can accommodate heights of up to 6’6”. The cot is made from heavy-duty polyester fabric, and it can support weights of up to 225lb. The frame is powder coated and resistant to rust, so you won’t have to worry about corrosion. It does not require tools to be assembled even though it folds down to a very compact structure. In addition, you get a limited one-year warranty with this product.

                      PROS

                      • It can double up as a cot and lounge chair
                      • Easy to assemble
                      • Tri-folds for easy transportation
                      • Ideal for taller people
                      • Very affordable

                      CONS

                      • It doesn’t come with a carrying case/bag
                      • It doesn’t have a lot of padding for comfort
                      • Weight capacity is lower than many other cots

                      Unlike many other camping cots that only have a heavy-duty fabric as a sleeping surface, this one has a thick foam mattress. It even has a spring-coil suspension to enhance the amount of comfort that the mattress can provide.

                      With a weight capacity of 300 lbs, this camping cot has a weight limit that is higher than many other cots on the market. For such a low price, this is quite a steal especially since the steel frame is very durable and the cot can fit heights up to 6’ 6”. You will also get a limited one-year warranty with the purchase.

                      PROS

                      • Thick foam mattress for comfort
                      • It can fit very tall persons
                      • Durable, heavy-duty steel frame
                      • Easy to transport and store
                      • Comes with a one-year warranty

                      CONS

                      • Heavy
                      • It does not come with a carry bag/case
                      • Can take up more space in your tent due to its length and width

                      If you have a larger budget and you want a larger-than-life cot, this could be the perfect choice. This is an extremely sturdy, well constructed camping cot with plenty of features. It is ideal for hardcore campers and outdoor adventure lovers, and you even benefit from a limited lifetime warranty with this product.

                      The cot has a patented aluminum steel frame topped with 300D double brushed canvas for superior support. This cot can accommodate weight of up to 600lb and is ideal for base camp and hunting. It comes with a free limited edition storage bag and fold up with ease, so it can be transported and stored.

                      This camping cot is compatible with the extra large camping pad, which is available from the manufacturer. You can purchase them as a set for a higher price, or you can opt for the cot without the pad. However, the pad will provide a superior level of comfort and can also be used as a ground pad if you need to provide a sleeping area for another person.

                      PROS

                      • Extremely durable
                      • Very large
                      • Can be folded for portability
                      • Limited lifetime guarantee

                      CONS

                      • Heavy
                      • Expensive

                      This camping cot has a simple design but offers an extra wide area for sleeping. It has a foldable heavy-duty steel frame and can hold a person of up to 300lb. In term of height, this camping cot is suitable for anyone up to 6’2”. The design is lightweight but offers comfort and support. You can assemble it with speed and ease.

                      This lightweight cot is easy to transport and comes with a carry bag for greater ease and convenience. You can fold it into a compact size, which means that you can also store it with ease when it is not required. This cot comes at a very affordable price, making it perfect for those on a budget.

                      PROS

                      • Very comfortable and supportive sleeping deck
                      • High quality construction
                      • Can be used as two separate cots or one bunk cot
                      • Converts into a canvas bench
                      • Extremely versatile and practical
                      • Very easy to put together

                      CONS

                      • Heavy
                      • Cost is high, but you do get two camping cots

                      For those who plan to travel around outdoors, such as backpackers, this camping cot is a great option. It is extremely lightweight, which makes it suitable for even backpackers. In fact, this is the lightest camping cot available but it is also very sturdy and well constructed.

                      This camping cot boasts an attractive design, which is patented. The design ensures that you benefit from high levels of support and comfort, with no need to worry about painful crossbars. The cot is waterproof and is able to handle heavy use with ease. You can put it together with speed and ease, as there is no need to use any tools.

                      This cot weighs only 2lb, which makes it perfect for those travelling without their own vehicle. You can also pack it into a really compact size, making it even easier to transport and carry as well as to store. The cot comes with stretch-free fabric, so you don’t have to put up with sagging. While the price of this cot is higher than average, it is designed to last and offer great support.

                      PROS

                      • Waterproof
                      • Extremely lightweight and can be carried by backpackers
                      • Very compact when packed away, making it easy to store and transport
                      • Stretch-free fabric, so there is no sagging

                      CONS

                      • It has a lot of crossbars running just below the bed surface so it may be uncomfortable
                      • The cost is much higher than the average camping cot

                      The Kamp-Rite Tent Cot is a combination of a cot and an individual tent. You can use it completely enclosed, which is perfect if you are at a festival and you don’t want the hassle of taking along a full size tent. It also has an integrated cot, so you can enjoy sleeping off the ground.

                      Rather than having to lug around a tent and separate cot, you can look forward to the practicality of an all-in-one. You can also use it as a cot or a lounger without the tent covering, which is ideal when the weather is warm and dry.

                      This cot can support up to 300lb in weight. The tent area has mesh over the doors and windows to keep insects at bay. The design is patented and is popular amongst members of the U.S. Military.

                      PROS

                      • Can be used as a tent cot, regular cot or lounge chair
                      • Folds into a much smaller size for portability
                      • Ideal for festivals and gardens as well as camping

                      CONS

                      • Heavy
                      • Even though it can be folded, it is still large
                      • Only suitable for one person

                      It sets up less than one minute, so you can get on with enjoying your camping trip and still enjoy a great night’s rest. This cot can be used both indoors and outdoors.

                      With its sturdy welded steel construction and strong polyester deck, this portable cot offers plenty of support. It can accommodate up to 325lb, making it ideal for those who are heavier than average. You also benefit from a carrying bag, which makes it even easier to transport this cot around. It is lightweight in design, so you can carry it with ease if you are walking rather than using a vehicle.

                      PROS

                      • Extremely easy to set up
                      • Solid construction and strong sleeping deck
                      • Can be folded to a very compact state for storage
                      • Has its own carrying case to be transported
                      • Holds up to 325lb

                      CONS

                      • It is a bit heavy to carry especially if you have other camping items
                      • Quite basic in design

                      What to look for in a camping cot

                      Support and comfort

                      Although you should ensure that your cot will be able to support your weight, be very careful that you do not end up with a cot that has bars that run right underneath your back when you lay down. This can be very uncomfortable and even painful. Instead, look for a cot that is padded or has adjustable tension. Some persons opt to use a mattress topper to add padding that the cot lacks.

                      Size

                      This really should not have to be mentioned, but make sure that you are not significantly longer or wider than your cot as this can lead to discomfort while sleeping.

                      RELATED: Best Two Person Cots For Camping (Buying Guide)

                      Portability

                      If you will be moving around with your cot a lot, it may be best to get one that is lightweight. Also check for features that make it easier to carry such as compactness, ability to be folded, straps or a bag for carrying, and how hard it is to be assembled.

                      Durability

                      I’m sure you do not want to have to purchase a camping cot every time you plan a camping trip. Check to see what type of frame the cot has. Steel frames are good but they also make the cot heavier. If you want something lighter, an aluminum frame is just fine. You should also check the type of fabric that is used. Some fabrics such as polyester and nylon are more supportive and easy to clean as well.

                      Weight

                      The weight of a camping cot can start at 2 pounds and go up to 20 pounds. There is no perfect weight. The lightweight cots are perfect for backpacking and the heavier cots are more durable and support more weight. Decide in which conditions you will be in and choose a cot satisfying your criteria.

                      Fabric

                       The best modern fabric used for cots are nylon and polyester. They can be easily clean and provide a good support. The quality of a fabric is measured in Denier. The higher the number the stronger the material.  The general recommendation is to choose a cot with at least 600D. Unfortunately, not every manufacturer publishes their fabric rating. In this case, you have to rely on the maximum load information. The bigger weight a cot supports, the higher density of a fabric should be used.

                      Final Verdict

                      So, you must be curious to find out which one of these amazing products is my top pick. Well, it is the Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot. Why? It is a very good camping cot overall. It can be folded to a compact size, weighs less than 20 lbs., and it has a very comfortable mattress for sleeping. Whether you are in the middle of the woods or indoors, you should be able to sleep very comfortably on this camping cot. Since this cot is affordably priced, it will fit into the budget of many persons who are shopping for camping cots. If you are short or on the taller side, you should not have a problem fitting on the cot since it has a pretty good length and you may just be able to even roll over while sleeping because there is so much room on the cot.If you have been looking for that perfect cot to take with you when you go camping, fishing or somewhere outside your home, you need to take a look at what this cot has to offer. For the its price and the features it has, it is definitely worth thinking about.

                      Best Camping In Washington

                      Mount Rainier

                      It is now the time to hit the trails, byways, and campgrounds across America.

                      However, you need to make sure you are going the right venues. Washington is one of the most underrated camping states in America, as people often prefer heading to locations that they think are easier to get to.

                      But, when you see what Washington has to offer it will change your mind, and you will come here time after time, and your children will continue in your footsteps with their children. You have towering mountains, dense forests, and the Pacific Ocean and all of its bounties is here waiting for you. Hundreds of bird watch sites, sanctuaries, and wildlife refuges contain more biodiversity than you ever imagined and it’s all affordable for a backpacker all the way up to those who want to camp but don’t want to pitch their own tent. You’ll find it all here in the 10 Magnificent Campgrounds of Washington.

                      Columbia River Gorge Campgrounds

                      Columbia River And Gorge

                      One thing that is wonderful about the National Parks system is that you get to relive what our frontier ancestors experienced when they were first exploring this great land and all it contains. The Lewis & Clark Expedition mapped out the Columbia River and the surrounding area. If you read the narratives and then see, the area in which you will be camping in you would expect to see canoes with both explorers and their interpreter Sacagawea and her son riding beside them.

                      However, along with all the history and grandeur, you can still find a good campsite at reasonable prices. Billed as one of the 7-Wonders of Washington you will long remember your stay here. It will cost you $15 a day at the Eagle Creek campground. Eagle Creek is just one of the 4 camping sites in the area that you can pitch your tent or park for up to two weeks of fun and frolic.

                      Takhlakh Lake Campground

                      Bridge at Takhlakh Lake

                      Situated near Mount Adams, you get to see the effects of the last Ice Age along with one of the largest glaciers within the Continental US.

                      However, if snow and ice are not your cup of tea, you can bask in the beautiful sunshine and the meadowed flower fields that surround the area amid ancient lava flows.​

                      National Geographic has this area on its Top-Ten list of must see and do places in Washington state.

                      You can hike and paddle the lake and just enjoy the sun as it reflects off the mountain at sunset. Prices for a visit vary at the more than 54 campsites. However, here you can reserve yours and get the price info you need.

                      Lake Wenatchee State Park

                      Lake Wenatchee WA

                      Situated near the Cascades Mountain Range, you have almost 3 miles of waterfront where you can enjoy water sports galore. Though the campgrounds are closed during the winter, you can still hike, ski, and snowmobile during winter’s cold.

                      The translation of the name of this lake means “Hidden Lake,” and you will want to keep it that way so you can enjoy it all for yourself. The camping spots are roomy and semi-private.

                      There are amenities to be had and even though you are far from the city. You still can have the creature comforts of life. Here you can reserve your spot and find out costs as well as more information. 

                      Lake Chelan State Park, North Cascades

                      Lake Chelan

                      Lake Chelan is one of those timeless places where you make it a family tradition that says you visit this place for decades and your children continue doing so with their children as well.

                      The place is changeless and eternal. You come here for the beauty of the lake and the surrounding lands. Fishing, kayaking, and canoeing on the placid water and breathing the fresh air, untainted by pollution and car exhaust. People come here to get in touch with Mother Earth and remember that we are all part of the great “Web of Life.”

                      With the Cascade Mountains as a backdrop painters, photographers, and writers have the perfect canvas to work from. While campers and hikers have a rich environment to frolic, swim, and play in as well. Make your reservations here and check on pricing. 

                      Ohanapecosh, Mount Rainier National Park

                      Ohanapecosh river

                      Part of the Mount Rainer National Park, you have the ideal setting for your summer getaway. Nine rivers owe their existence to this mountain and the Ohanapecosh is one starting from a glacier melt on the eastern slope. Along its length, you can see waterfalls and beautiful pools filled with clear cool water. Here fish come to make their home and breed. It is a fisherman’s paradise if you are in the mood to do some Fly Fishing.

                      The numerous waterfalls climax with the silver falls being the last the river continues past the Ohanapecosh Hot Springs, the campgrounds and the Ranger Station/Service center. 

                      Reservations can be made online. The cost per day is reasonable at $20 a day without electrical hook up.

                      Spencer Spit State Park, Lopez Island, San Juan Islands

                      Spencer Spit trail and state park

                      As you can see from the slide show at the website you have found the perfect place to go Kayaking, crabbing, and clamming. You are in the middle of a 200-acre marine park where you get salt tang in the air blowing in off the ocean. Situated on the Strait of Juan de Fuca where to the North beckons Canada, British Columbia, and Vancouver and through its center is the American-Canadian border.

                      You can indulge in swimming, saltwater fishing, and boating as well. Take your catch in along with those tasty crustaceans you have caught and at one of 3 picnic shelters use the BBQ pit to make a delicious dinner from the ocean’s bounty. Rates are “right on” with the other National Parks. 

                      Willaby on Lake Quinault, SW Olympic Peninsula

                      Lake Quinault

                      Part of the Olympic National Park this campground is located on the south side of Lake Quinault. It is centered inside a Rain Forest like setting, filled with Cedar, Hemlock, Spruce, and Douglas Fir. Within the 19 separate camping areas, you will find facilities for not only tents but Recreation Vehicles and even walk-in campers as well.

                      Rates are $25 a night, and if you have a second vehicle, you need to pay an extra surcharge of $7. They only limit the number of RVs to 16. You can reserve your spot year round at https://www.recreation.gov

                      Here and nearby there is hunting fishing, and Hiking along with a variety of water activities including horseback riding, biking, picnicking, and a plethora of other outdoor related activities.

                      Winthrop, North Cascades National Park

                      Winthrop

                      The people at Kampgrounds of America (KOA) have some of the choicest camping venues across the country. Winthrop in the Northern Cascades is one such choice spot to pitch your tent, park your trailer or RV. They even have cabins to rent if you choose to go minimalist. Here in an old Mining town, you can hike, camp, and even take Hot Air Balloon rides over the area to take in all the splendor of the region. It is still an active gem mining area and who knows you might strike it rich while you are here. All the Amenities are here, and they run a shuttle bus into the nearby town as well. There is a heated pool. Never has the Old West been so hospitable. 50 Amp hookups are available. There is even a convenient snack bar in case you are tired of campfire cooking.

                      Their rates are reasonable, and by calling 800-562-2158, you can get the current rates and see about any specials and when they expire.

                      Pampered Campgrounds of Millersylvania State Park

                      Pampered Wilderness campground

                      Some prefer to camp out in style and want to be pampered as well. Nestled within the 842-acre Millersylvania Park you don’t need to bring a tent or RV. Here you have an exotic Safari-Style tent with all the trimmings waiting. There is a multitude of styles you can choose from like a Rustic Cabin to a Cozy Cottage. Each of the 6 styles of tent cabins has their own unique ambiance and amenities.

                      From your front deck with a wine glass in hand, you can look out over an old growth forest   and inhale fresh air which isn’t polluted or adulterated with fumes and noxious odors. You have 3,000 of shoreline to fish from, walk with a special someone and experience camping like you never dreamed of. Here is what you can expect to see. You see things like a Wolf Sanctuary, miles of trails, a winery, cafe with prime rib, and arts, crafts, and Apple cider and fresh produce. All this is courtesy of the local populace, which wants your stay to be memorial and enjoyable.

                      It is a tad expensive at $244.50 a night, but it is a once in a lifetime camping experience, not to be missed. This should be high up on your “Bucket List” of things you need to do before you pass into the next life.

                      Kalaloch, Olympic National Park

                      Cedar Creek Abbey Island Ruby Beach

                      Located in a place called “a good place to land” of which the word “Kalaloch” means, it is a place made for the camping enthusiast.

                      With 73 miles of coastline that include a marine sanctuary and a 3 natural wildlife refuges as well. Crabs and shellfish abound along with Birders flocking here to see their feathered friends. You can swim if you dare. However, there are riptides and logs tend to appear without warning, which makes it something for only the hardy. There is the Hoh Rain Forest and the grandeur of the Olympic National Park itself. The rates vary between $22 and $44 depending on your choice of camping venue. Then all the wonders of nature are here for you to enjoy.

                      Best Camping Gifts

                      Camping Gear

                      Under 50$

                      Tile mate is one of the best camping gifts you can give to a camper. Tile-Mate is a best-selling Bluetooth tracker that loops easily to key chains or attaches to things you cannot afford to lose so that you can find them easily.

                      You can use a smartphone to ring your tile mate when if it is nearby and out of sight. There are over 5 million devices sold making the tile the biggest lost and found network in the world. Tile users can ask for assistance from other users in the community. Tile also helps you find your misplaced phone. Double pressing on the tile button rings your phone even if it is on silent.​

                      Campers are likely to misplace or even lose various objects that are important to them, and this is why Tile mate would be an important device to have on a camping trip. This device would undoubtedly make a good camping gift.

                      Another important item that can be of great value to a camper is the LifeStraw water filter. This award-winning water filter has been around since 2005 and used by millions. The LifeStraw water filter removes a minimum 99.9999% of all bacteria that is waterborne which surpasses the water filter standards set by EPA.

                      It also removes 99.9% protozoan parasites that are waterborne and filters to an impressive 0.2 microns. It can filter about 1000 liters of water that is contaminated without chlorine, iodine, or any other chemicals.

                      Campers have no access to clean drinking water, and for this reason, a water filter is an important part of camping gear. This makes the LifeStraw Personal water filter a great gift to the give a camper.

                      One of the most important tools for a camper to have is a radio. Radios can be used to communicate between campers and also be valuable in case of emergencies.

                      The BaoFeng UV-5R radio is a high/low power setting amateur radio that is programmable. The radio features customizable channel names, boot display among others using a PC03 FTDI Programming Cable. This dual band two-way radio has features that make it as one of the best camping gifts under 50$.

                      Under 100$

                      Tents are an important part of camping. It would make no sense to go camping without a tent. In most cases, people go camping as a group, and it is rare to see someone going on a solo camping trip.

                      The Sundome 4 person tent is an ideal gift that can be given to a regular camper. The tent is big enough to house up to 4 people. It is made of Polyester and manufactured in the US but can also be imported.

                      The sleeping tent features a center height of 59″, 8.5 mm fiberglass poles, large windows and ground vent that move air up and out, spacious interior, storage pockets and more.

                      The Garmin eTrex GPS navigator can be an important asset for any camper. It features a worldwide preloaded base map with a monochrome 2.2-inch display. This gadget has a GPS receiver that is WAAS-enabled with GLONASS AND HotFix support for a reliable signal and fast positioning.

                      This GPS navigator is waterproof and protects against rain, splashes, etc. It is AA batteries powered and can last for up to 20 hours. The device also supports Garmin spine mounting accessories as well as paperless geocaching.

                      Every camper needs a backpack, and so this backpack would be a valued item if given to a camper. This backpack is great for adults and the youth and can be used for 2-4 day camping trips. It features a torso adjustment and is made to fit different body sizes, big sleeping bag compartment, multi-directional compression straps, multiple pockets and compartments to offer strategic packaging. The product comes with a Limited lifetime warranty.

                      All campers need a backpack and it is not an option to have one. This backpack can make a good gift to anyone who is likes camping and they would always remember you by it.

                      Under 200$​

                      A goTenna is one item that every camper would be happy to have. This gadget ensures that when it matters most, you stay connected. This device enables you to send text as well as share your GPS locations using an Android or iOS device even if there is no Wi-Fi or cell coverage.

                      The goTenna develops an off-grid network connection with other users around your area. You can send one on one messages, operate group chats or even broadcast to all nearby goTenna users.

                      This is an industry leading mattress design that has 40 internal air coils. This ensures you have a firm and flat bet that is comfortable. It features a one-click internal pump that inflates/deflates the mattress easily and fast. This air mattress takes only four minutes to reach the maximum inflation and firmness.

                      This mattress is big and can accommodate more than one person comfortably. It also has a double chamber construction, waterproof top for more comfort and durability, puncture resistant and is no doubt a good gift to buy for a camper

                      A camping knife is always top on the list of must-have for campers. If you are thinking of giving a friend or relative a camping knife, then the Victorinox Swiss Army knife is one of the best choices.

                      This Swiss pocket knife features a1.25”blade, scissors, key ring, and a screwdriver. It is made of stainless steel and fits well in a pocket making it a perfect key holder addition. The Victorinox is made in Switzerland and offers a lifetime guarantee against workmanship and material defects.​