Odd But Useful Outdoor Products

Sleeping bag-check.

Backpack-check.

Swedish FireSteel?

In this gadget-crazy world, it's not much of a stretch to find gizmos for your camping trip. They're mostly only available on the internet, but some of them might become available in high-end stores like REI or novelty shops. Since trees and sand dunes don't usually have power outlets, most of these are battery-powered.

I laughed out loud when I saw this one. It's a tent that hangs from a tree.  

http://blog.ziggytek.com/2011/11/20/10-weird-but-useful-gadgets/

What you do is spread it out, anchor it onto a tree and sleep in the bottom. I'm not sure how many people it sleeps or how comfortable it is, but a tent that isn't sitting on the ground doesn't attract all the bugs and snakes a 'regular' tent can. Plus, you don't have to worry about roots poking you in the back at night. Sounds good to me!

Are you a Star Wars or Blade Runner fan? I'm not, but I'd still get some use out of this umbrella.

http://www.networkworld.com/slideshows/2010/030410-gadgets-gizmos.html#slide6

The shaft of this umbrella glows like a 'light saber', giving you light to walk by. It's also a good way to keep track of people like me who tend to wander off when they see something cool in the window of a store.

Have you ever had trouble starting a campfire? Thanks to the Swedes, that doesn't have to be a problem anymore.

http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/754d/#tabs

This is the Swedish FireSteel. It was originally made for military use, but our friends at ThinkGeek have found a way for 'civilians' start a fire with even the wettest of wood. It works by running the metal blade across a flint at the end of a cable. The spark it creates is hot enough to start a fire and bright enough to be used as an emergency signal. It's about 3.75” long and weighs less than 2 ounces, so you won't have a problem fitting it into your bag. Cool, huh?

I grew up on the beach, so I've seen (and worn) a lot of bikinis. However, I've never seen anything quite like this.

http://www.networkworld.com/slideshows/2010/030410-gadgets-gizmos.html#slide8

The mini-strips this bikini is made of soak up solar power for your iPod Shuffle. Granted, it's not a bikini you can actually swim in. I've also seen velvet or sequined bikinis, though, so that won't be a problem for some people. At least this one doesn't look like dental floss. There's supposed to be a male version coming out that cools beer. Fun.

The OCD among us will appreciate this portable disinfection scanner. 

http://www.skymall.com/shopping/detail.htm?pid=203075755&c

It's about the size of a cell phone and uses UV light to disinfect up to 99.9% of germs. It's a great way to kill the dust mites that have been gathering in your sleeping bag all winter. If you're staying in a hotel, it does a great job of killing any cold and flu viruses a previous guest may have left behind. It uses AAA batteries and is small enough to fit in your pocket. Neat!

The internet has a funny way of making you want things you didn't even know you wanted! For even more weird but useful gadgets for your vacation, check out ThinkGeek.com

 and NetworkWorld.com. Have fun!

Navigate Your Hikes and Outdoor Trips With Garmin Maps

The large paper maps and the hours spent mapping out long distance trips are a thing of the past thanks to the introduction of the GPS, or global positioning systems. In the last few years, these electronic systems have made traveling a less stressful and significantly simpler task. Through using electronic maps, such as the ones developed by the Garmin GPS, people are now able to easily track specific destinations and the amount of time that it will take to get there. As roads are continuously changing and detours are common, one of the distinctive capabilities of the Garmin GPS are the unique features of Garmin maps. The user now has the ability to download updated maps or build a map to keep directions as up to date and as accurate as possible.

As new roads are created and new construction is completed, the maps that are currently on your Garmin GPS may need updated from time to time. Instead of having to purchase a new map as you would have in the past, you can now simply download an update to the Garmin GPS that you presently own. To do this, you need to go to a Garmin website and register your individual Garmin. The Garmin GPS comes with a USB cord that will connect it to a computer and it will need to be connected to update the Garmin maps. From here, updating the maps is a simple process that involves following a series of steps to launch, download, and save the Garmin map updates. Most Garmin update websites will immediately prompt you with what map updates are necessary when the Garmin is connected to the computer and a Garmin GPS website is accessed.

Another feature of the Garmin GPS is the ability to build your own map for a specific trip or a precise route that is not necessarily the shortest route. These maps are usually able to be created with the software that comes with the Garmin and this software is called Garmin Trip and Waypoint Manager. If you are looking to construct a different kind of map such as on water or on a trail, then other types of software can be purchased. To begin building a Garmin map, simply connect the Garmin GPS to the computer and open the software. You will be able to identify specific points of interest, known as waypoints, by flagging these destinations on the map. To save the map that you create, you save the route using the selected waypoints as a Garmin GPS database file when given the prompt to save and title it whatever you would like to. You then select transfer to send the newly created map to the Garmin GPS and your personalized map is ready to use.

Whether you are using a Garmin GPS for a long vacation or to get around town, having access to an electronic map has numerous benefits. The ability to keep up to date with changes in roads and locations and having the capability to construct a route that is unique to you are some of the great features of the Garmin GPS and Garmin maps.

Holiday Gifts For The 'Outdoors-y' People In Your Life

Do you have someone in your life who loves camping and spending time outdoors? If so, you might be wondering what you can get them this holiday seasoning that can help them out in this area without necessarily breaking the bank. Here are a few ideas for gifts for the outdoors person in your life.

A reflective tarp or sun shade. You know those sun shades you see people put in their windshields in the summer when they go into the store? They do so to keep the car from feeling like a pressure cooker when they come back. The same 'technology' (well, if you count fold-out cardboard and foil 'technology') can be used in your tent. Many sporting goods/outdoors stores and websites sell reflective tarps that you can pitch over the top of your tent to keep it cool in the summer heat. If you go anywhere in the southern US, trust me, you're going to need it! Don't put it directly on your tent, but pitch it as a type of canopy. Even if the heat isn't a concern, reflectors are very useful for other things, including cooking. Check out http://www.thesurvivalistblog.net/car-sun-shade-multiple-survival-purposes/ for more information.

A good sleeping bag. The best ones are insulated and waterproof. Visit your local sporting-goods store for specific instructions.

An inflatable mattress and pump. My sorority would often hold initiations at a local campground. The pledges would sleep outside in a tent while the 'sisters' would stay in the cabin. When you have more people than bunk beds or you're going to be on ground that isn't good for laying on, you might want to bring an inflatable mattress and air pump.

Special clothes. A good pair of hiking boots, fleece, a waterproof jacket, track pants and insulated socks are all essential items for any 'outdoors-y' type. Insulated flannel shirts can also be used as jackets.

Anything solar-powered. Somehow I don't think that you're going to be able to find any electrical outlets in the woods. Anything that can attract the sun's rays and use it to cook or power up devices such as cell phones and digital cameras will be very useful and environmentally-friendly.

An outdoor survival kit. In addition to things like bandages and antiseptic, an outdoor survival kit can contain all sorts of items to make things easier. Sunscreen, lip balm, toilet paper, other toiletries, hydration packs and other things of that nature are needed, so it might be fun to prepare an outdoor 'care package' for your loved one. That way, they have the things they need and with a personal touch.

A navigation system. I have absolutely no sense of direction, so I've been known to get lost in a number of places. Hopefully this isn't the case for your loved one, but getting them handheld GPS system, compass or such an app on a smartphone will always be appreciated.

There, now you have a few gift ideas for the outdoors-person in your life. Happy Holidays!

Bicycle Basics

How to Care for Your Bicycle

To keep your bicycle rolling smoothly and safely on the road or trail, you should learn how to care for your bicycle.  Proper bicycle care and maintenance will allow for many hours of enjoyable riding and touring.  Knowing a few bicycle basics will enable you to keep your bike in good riding condition.  Taking some preventative steps can help to ensure continued peak performance from your bicycle.  Bicycles should be thoroughly inspected and serviced by a professional once or twice a year.  There are some simple things you can do to maintain your bike between inspections.  Depending on how much you ride, you should do a quick, easy inspection of your own on a daily or weekly basis.  Three important things to check daily or weekly are the chain, brakes, and tires.

Upkeep and Maintenance for Bicycles
Routinely checking the tires, brakes, and chain is an important, yet easy to do, part of the upkeep and maintenance for bicycles.  Also, there are a few basic tools and supplies that you should keep on hand and carry with you while riding.  Keeping the bike clean and proper storage are additional important factors in good bicycle care and maintenance.  Devoting a little time and effort to maintaining your bicycle will extend the bike’s lifespan and ensure safe travel.

Inflating the tires to the correct tire pressure will allow you to get the maximum amount of miles out of a set of tires.  Bicycle tires have the recommended pressure printed on the side.  Some riders prefer to adjust the pressure slightly for a more comfortable ride.  However, make sure that the tires are not too under or over inflated to avoid excess wear.  Be sure to use a gauge that is made for bicycle tires.  The tire pressure should be checked before each ride.  Bike tires lose air.  The skinny bike tires need air almost every day.  The fat tires, usually, need air every week.  Be careful not to damage the valves, when checking the pressure and when adding air.  It is a good idea to use the largest tube that will fit the tire.  This will reduce air loss and help resist flats.             

The bike brakes should be inspected frequently.  Check the brake pads for wear, embedded metal particles, and proper adjustment, or positioning.  Also, keep the rims clean.  Road bikes have center mounted brakes.  Touring, cyclocross, hybrid, and mountain bikes have cantilever mount brakes.  To avoid squealing, make sure the brake pads are toed in, not flat on the rim.  If the bike brakes make a scraping sound, the pads need have to the metal particles sanded out or they need to be replaced.  For optimal bicycle safety, the brake pads should be replaced when they’re worn to ¼ inch. 

Taking care of the chain is an important part of proper bicycle care and maintenance.  Keep the chain clean and lubricated.  Stand the bike upside down or lift the back tire off the ground to lubricate the chain.  Apply chain lubricant on the inside of the chain while pedaling backwards.  Do not over lubricate the chain.  Wipe off any excess lubricant with a clean cloth.  Inspect the chain for bent links.  If there are more than a few bent links, replace the chain to avoid gear damage.

It is a good idea to carry a few basic bicycle maintenance tools with you.  A tire gauge, flat tire repair kit, air pump, allen wrenches, chain tool and a screwdriver should be part of your traveling bicycle tool kit.  Performing basic bicycle maintenance regularly will help ensure bicycle safety and an enjoyable ride every time.  Proper storage and regular cleaning will eliminate unnecessary nicks and scratches and prevent rust.

Excellent Hiking Bags for Women:

Kelty Nimble, $170

The Nimble's 3,500-cubic inches of space are all you need for a weekend backcountry trek. The women-specific fit features a padded, cone-shaped waistband designed to sit comfortably at curved hips. It also has an ice-axe loop, shovel pocket and hydration sleeve (reservoir not included), with easy loading from the front or top. keltywoman.com

Golite VO24, $90

This small but roomy feather-light pack won't weigh you down on your next adventure race or day hike. With pockets on the hip wings, sides and front, the VO24 also has tow loops and a rear bungee cord for hauling more gear, plus an emergency whistle on the sternum strap, just in case. Hydration-compatible (reservoir not included). golite.com

Deuter Race X Air 1 SL, $99

With Deuter's Aircomfort-System, this bike pack "floats" above your back on a spring-loaded suspension system to provide increased airflow and better weight distribution. Three-liter hydration pack, side and front mesh pockets and stowaway helmet holder also included. deuter.com

TYR Sport Backpack, $46

Don't need a maze of compartments to lose your stuff in? Great for the gym, TYR's pretty but tough, basic pack has one main well with space for running shoes, workout clothes, towels, toiletries and more. Front zipped flap has pockets for wallet, cell phone and other necessities. tyr.com

How To Find An Outdoor Summer Sleeping Bag

Experiencing the great outdoors is a wonderful family activity that can be done all year round. Many people thoroughly enjoy camping under the stars in the summer and taking outdoor themed vacations with the little ones for a great learning and bonding experience. To find a quality summer sleeping bag can be a challenge as most of the sleeping bags are manufactured to keep you warm in cold weather, but there are a few that are just what you would be looking for.

A summer sleeping bag should be able to keep you cool and dry during the evenings and hopefully be easy to take care of as well. Most sleeping bags get wet and even tend to smell after you have used them for a few days outdoors, you always want to look for one that you can easily rinse off and line dry. Also carefully read the fabrics and materials your summer sleeping bag is made of to avoid any allergic reactions from occurring during your adventure.

One type is called the Coleman Trinidad Warm-Weather Sleeping Bag and it is extremely affordable for any family road trip at only twenty three dollars. The Coleman bag is seventy-five inches long and can keep you cool and dry during overnight sleeping temperatures that drop to forty degrees. It is suitable for an adult with a blue exterior that is appropriate for men and women alike. The liner is made of tricot and it also bodes a comfort smart element only used by Coleman to ensure a cozy night’s rest. Easy to fasten with the quick cord mechanic and no need to waste time with long string ties. Portable and compact at only four pounds.

The Kelty Light Year XP 40-Degree Climashield XP Sleeping Bag is another great option for a summer sleeping bag. It is slightly higher in price than the previously mentioned Coleman sleeper, but it does have a few more additional features. The Kelty model is a mummy style sleeping bag that wraps around the head with a ventilation system built in the foot area that has a vent for keeping feet cool and dry during the night. It also has unique chevron stitching that will not snag or rip when opening and closing the bag. With the Climashield protection you will sleep without being concerned about the weather should it rain overnight as you will stay dry. The liner inside bodes a polyester micro fiber filling for a soft feel similar to your bed sheets at home. The Kelty Light Year XP 40-Degree Climashield XP Sleeping Bag is available for around one hundred dollars.

Searching for a quality summer sleeping bag can be quite simple if you look on the web. Going to stores may take you hours to find any models that are specifically for the warmer weather months. Be cautious when seeking yours to not be alarmed with the pricing as some models that are higher in price are not your average sleeping bag and they do come with lots of additional features that may just surprise you.

Horseback Riding Safety Tips

 

Have you ever seen people ride horses in movies and want to try it yourself? They make it look so easy; just climb on and go. The truth is that horseback riding can be dangerous, even for the most talented of riders. When you consider how big they are and how fast they can run, it's not hard to see how someone could have a serious or fatal injury from a horseback riding accident. How can we prevent such accidents from happening? Here are a few ideas.

• Get proper training. The best way to learn to ride is with a competent instructor. Learn how to 'read' your horse so you can tell if something is bothering her and how to deal with it.
• Ride in a group. This way, someone will be there to help if you have an accident. Also, keep your cell with you and let someone know where you are going and when you will be back. Also, don't ride away from or ahead of the group, and adjust speed to accommodate the least-experienced rider in your group.
• Be realistic. Know your ability level and stick to it. I know it can be fun to try to impress that cute guy in your group or show your teacher how good you are, but don't. Don't try to do tricks or other things beyond your (and your horse's) ability level. Remember, the riders in the movies are professionals; don't try their tricks at home!
• Always wear the proper headgear. Even if you aren't doing anything major like racing or steeplechase, you can still fall off of a horse and hurt yourself. Sure, helmets aren't the most attractive headgear you've ever seen, but it's better to be less fashionable than less safe. Also, horseback riding helmets are completely different from the ones you use with a bike or motorcycle.
• Use the proper equipment. On the same tip as above, be sure to wear long pants and gloves. You should wear boots with heels, with the stirrups adjusted to fit them. Otherwise, you could get your foot caught and be dragged by your horse if you fall. Make sure your saddle, ropes, etc are in good repair. Your instructor will be able to give you more information about the proper equipment.
• Remember that horses are animals, not machines. Unlike your motorcycle, horses have personalities and aren't always predictable. Even a well-trained horse can get spooked or bothered by things around her. Some instructors will even tie a red ribbon around the tail of a horse that is known to kick so special care can be taken with them. Make sure you have control of your horse at all times.
• Be aware of your surroundings. This one seems pretty obvious, but it's always worth saying again.

Horseback riding can be a lot of fun and a great way to get outside and enjoy nature. Just make sure you follow the proper safety protocol to make sure nothing bad happens. Have a good time!

Running Socks For Women

Running is not for amateurs. It requires a lot more than just getting out there in the mornings and taking on a few miles. Runners can experience several types of injuries, with blisters at the top of the list. One method of preventing this from developing is to use a great running sock, which many women tend to avoid. With the recent running shoes coming out that are thin and light in fabric and design, many ladies run comfortably without wearing socks at all. Running socks are needed to prevent blisters from forming and to also to help the foot when connecting to the pavement from impact. They should be made well to keep moisture out and provide an additional form of cushion to the runner when jogging. You may need to try on a few pairs before you find a great fit that is also comfortable to you when in motion. Male and female running socks are created totally different. The male versions are made to be a wider fit and they are constructed longer as well. The female versions are shorter in style and made more narrow.

Some brands worth mentioning are; WrightSock, SmartWool, Wigwam, and Nike brands. WrightSock makes a sock that is layered twice for the utmost in support. They are priced around twenty to thirty dollars depending on what style you like. They seal out that moisture that all runners want to avoid and they are available in the fits for ankle cuts up to crew fashions.

The SmartWool company has created a sock style that is made in crew fits and the mini crew style. As far as the support is concerned, you can find ones that have light and ultra light variations to find the perfect fit for your happy feet while running. Prices vary from ten to twenty dollars for this style. Wigwam running socks are another style that is one that has the ability to control the moisture in the shoes very well. The even sell a line for the triathlete and sizes are generally the lower ankle cut styles and the half crew variations. Prices for this brand are between twenty and thirty dollars. Nike has another style that is their “Dri-FIT” sock line, where they have created a special fabric just to provide cushion and prevent that moisture from coming in. The sizes for these are available in the popular no show form, crew and low cuts. Prices for the Nike styles are between ten and twenty dollars.

It is imperative to find great running socks as you need them for the best in support. Having but one blister can mess up your entire week of running, they are a nuisance and they are painful at times. Steer clear of those trivial injuries by using well made running socks.

Women's Backpacks vs. Men's Backpacks:

One thing is for sure; women are made differently than men. Thank goodness. So, why should we be using equipment that is designed to fit a man? We should not. Manufacturers are now making backpacks designed to fit a woman, and they are so much more comfortable and less restricting than men’s packs.

First of all, the cool thing about being a woman backpacker is that your body was made to carry a backpack. Since our hips are curvier they act like a shelf, so the hip belt rests easily and most of the weight of the pack is carried there easily.

Before you go to look for a pack, measure your torso length. This is easy, but you may want to enlist someone to help. Find your seventh vertebra. The little bone that protrudes just below your neck and between your shoulders is the seventh vertebra. Next, find your iliac crest. This is what most people refer to as their hipbone – when you place your hands on your hips, this is the bone that they rest on. With a tape measure find the distance between these two points. Write it down and bring it along with you when you’re shopping for your pack.

The salesperson can help you with this, but manufacturers make it pretty easy to find the right fit if you look at the hangtags. Most will either put a measurement (in inches) or a range of measurements there. When you find your size, don’t assume that it will fit just because the inches are correct – you do need to try it on.

Besides having a shorter torso, women’s packs also have a wider hip belt. Look for one that settles comfortably on your hips. You should still be able to move around pretty easily, don’t let the belt restrict your movements. While you’re at the store, crouch down, try stepping up – any movements you may make on the trail. If you have no trouble here, then you shouldn’t on your trip either. (Note: Many stores will have weights they can load in to the pack to simulate your gear. This is the best way to go to make sure that your pack really suits you when it’s fully weighted.)

Another thing we know for sure is that women’s chests are made much differently than men’s. Because of this, women’s packs have a higher chest strap. Make sure this rests flatly across your chest between your neck and breasts. It also helps if there is some give in the fabric to allow easier breathing.

The last difference I’ll discuss between men and women’s packs is narrower shoulder straps. Women’s shoulders tend to not be a broad as most mens' are. A narrower shoulder strap is much more comfortable and won’t dig in to your chest or brush against your arms as you move.

Manufacturers are now making it easier to find a pack that fits your specific needs as a woman. If you can find a good quality pack that is comfortable, you will be happy with it (hopefully) for years to come.

Must haves for a camping trip

I'm not really much of a camper, but I know people who are. Considering that an estimated one-third of Americans have gone camping in the past five years, you're bound to know one or two yourself! If you've never been and/or are planning to go soon, you might wonder what sorts of things you need to take with you. Some of them seem pretty obvious but others, not so much. Here are some things no good camping trip would be complete without!

One of the most important things to bring on a camping trip is a good tent. The basic type of tent is the classic 'staked' tent. This has metal or plastic stakes attached to the tent that are hammered into the ground to tie it down. You can also get one that is freestanding-doesn't need to be connected to stakes hammered into the ground-if you want a tent that is easy to move from place to place or if you are going to be camping in rocky areas. Obviously, your tents should be big enough for everyone to sleep in with some space left over. If you're going with a big group, you might want to bring several tents. Also, it can't hurt to bring an extra tarp, rope, stakes and a hammer in case it rains.

Another essential is the sleeping bag. Some people will bring air mattresses or hammocks, but you should still have a basic sleeping bag for warmth.

You're going to want to have plenty of food and an easy way to cook it. Some 'camping-friendly' foods are hot dogs, marshmallows, cans of beans and perhaps a cast-iron griddle. My husband and his friends made 'trail burritos'-basically a flour tortilla with eggs, grits, cheese and link sausages cooked over a fire. Many people also bring 'trail mixes' of nuts, fruits and granola for energy on hiking trails. As for cooking, it helps to have a portable gas burner and perhaps some of your own wood and matches. Some campgrounds have grills and cooking aids, but it's good to have your own in case these aren't available.

Some other basics for camping are:

• A flashlight and batteries
• Water
• Toiletries-toilet paper, towel, a trowel (to bury waste), toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, combs, etc.
• Maps and a compass
• First-Aid Kit
• Good shoes! I'm not just talking about street shoes...hiking boots, as well as another pair of sturdy shoes in case the others get wet. You should also bring a change of clothes, underwear and socks.
• Swiss-Army Knife
• Water Purifier kit, usually found at camping/sporting goods stores
• Bug repellant and/or a citronella candle

Remember that you're going to have to carry this stuff with you! Be sure that you have a good backpack, and don't overload yourself. It's one thing to wear a backpack with books to school, but another thing to have one with camping equipment on an uphill hike!

Hopefully I didn't forget anything but, in case I did, you can often find information and tips at camping/sporting goods stores. The associates there are usually very knowledgable and helpful. Have fun!

How To Make An Outdoor First Aid Kit

You're getting ready to go on an outdoor adventure with your friends. You're packing all of the gear you will need and making sure you didn't forget anything. One thing you should always take with you is a first-aid kit. But what do you put in a first aid kit? You know what is in the one at home, but do you need anything different for your outdoor trip? Here are a few ideas.

One important thing to consider is where you are going and how long you will be there. It's always a good idea to keep some extra food or water on hand. Also, you won't need as big of a kit on a day hike as you would on a weekend or week-long camping trip. Make sure the container your kit is in is watertight and crush-proof. It needs to be able to be identified easily, neatly packed and kept in an accessible part of your bag.

Here are some of the basic items you should take with you:

• Sunscreen
• A good bug spray containing DEET
• Tweezers
• A small tube of anti-biotic ointment (Neosporin, etc)
• Hand sanitizer
• Various sizes of adhesive bandages
• a small bottle of iodine solution (alcohol preps are also good)
• 2” gauze roll
• 1 roll of adhesive bandage tape
• 4x4 gauze pads
• scissors
• a small bottle or bar of soap
• hydrocortisone cream
• possibly some anti-itch medicine such as Benadryl
• Pain reliever (ibuprofen, Tylenol, etc)
• Aloe vera gel
• Q-tips or cotton balls

Most of these items can be found at any drugstore, grocery or discount store. Of course, it's always good to have things such as tampons or sanitary napkins with you. Also, personal wipes are good, especially if you are going somewhere without proper, um, bathroom facilities!

Make sure at least one person going with you is properly trained in first aid. Preferably everyone will have an idea of how to use the kit, but at least one person should have this kind of experience. This is very important since you will likely be in a place where you can't easily call an ambulance or find a doctor. It's a good idea to carry a small medical guide book just in case.

Remember that space and carrying weight is a consideration. It's easy to forget about this when you have a first-aid kit in your home or car, but you're going to have to find a way to carry or store everything in your first aid kit in addition to everything else you're carrying. If possible, everything should fit in a space about the size of a hard-bound book or small lunch box.You can find ready-make outdoors first-aid kits at stores such as REI and Dick's Sporting Goods. Even so, it's good to know what you need in case you have to make your own. Here are a couple of sites to review for guidance:

http://www.woodsmonkey.com

http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-gear/gear-guy/What-goes-in-a-wilderness-first-aid-kit-.html

http://outdoored.com/community/outdoor_ed/b/wildmed/archive/2011/04/18/first-aid-kit.aspx

Have fun!