Reddit mentions: The best sleeping bags & camp bedding

REI's Backpacking Tips for Beginners is a good place to start.

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-beginners.html

You'll notice the first section is "Find an Experienced Partner". While this sub and others can give you a lot of advice, it's not a substitute for a partner who knows what they're doing. That doesn't mean you can't just go out and "wing it"... if you do, don't bite off more than you can chew. Better to take a few shorter overnights just to get used to things before heading out into the backcountry and having an epic. And I think you need a permits for Yos/Mammoth, so better look into that.

The REI list discusses shared gear and personal gear. Most likely an experienced partner is going to already own a tent, stove, cookware... but if it's just two of you with no gear, you'll have to pick up both shared and personal gear. How you want to split the cost is up to you.

The checklists are nice... but before you go out and buy everything on the list, make sure you will actually need them. Start with the basics; tent, bag, pad, pack, headlamp, FAK, maps & compass, stove, pot, utensils, shoes and clothing... and then go from there.

Here's the REI backpacking checklist:

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacking-checklist.html

It's comprehensive, but remember you don't need everything on the list. It's pretty common for a beginner to go out and spend way too much money, and then start leaving stuff home as they find they don't need it on the trail.

REI is a great place to spend (a lot of) money. They've got very nice gear, and a great return policy if the gear doesn't work for you... but you'll pay full retail if you just walk in and buy the gear. With a membership, all full price items return 10% to you at the end of the year so it's not too bad, and they have seasonal 20% off coupons which do help. It's a good place to pick up a pack since they can help getting you one that fits, which goes a long way to a comfortable hike. Ditto with shoes, and you can try out mattress pads and see what's comfortable for you.

You can buy other things elsewhere like Amazon... but it's recommended that you go to a gear shop to try on packs (and buy it there to support the store).

Here are a few recommendations:

Pack - Gregory and Osprey are often recommended. For a beginner, 50L-60L is a good size. Don't get a 70L pack, you'll just end up bringing more gear than you need. Try the pack on, load it up with weights, and make sure it fits and carries well. Sometimes the REI packs will fit you better than others... if that's the case get the REI (and save a few bucks).

Tent - Huge range of products here. The Lynx is a decent starter tent for the cost. It'll probably last a few years, and by then hopefully you'll have more money and more experience and get something you like better.

Sleeping bag - If you can afford a down bag, that's great, they're lighter and pack smaller than synthetic bags. The Kelty Cosmic 20 is a good bag for the price.


Pad - Look at the basic inflatables (keep in mind the R-value if you're thinking of going later in the season) like the Thermarest ProLite. Some stick with foam pads like the Thermarest Z Lite pad to save money. Try them out and see what you like.

Stove - The MSR PocketRocket is ol' reliable. Lot of people have them, but the new MSR PocketRocket 2 is more compact and lighter. There are some cheap (< $15) stoves on Amazon, the Etekcity and BRS 3000T... people have been using them but they're small and more suited to people who are just boiling water for dehydrated meals rather than those who actually cook.

Cookset - Don't spend money on a 12 piece cookset...they're cool, but at some point you'll probably figure out you only need a shared pot and a mug for each person. And maybe a small fry pan. Depends on what you want to eat out there. Anodized aluminum is light and sturdy, but more expensive than other options. Titanium is super light, but doesn't disperse heat well so it's great for boiling water, but not so much for cooking non-liquid meals. Stainless steel is heavy but will last many years.

Spork - so many sporks out there... long handled spoons work better for getting food from the bottom of a packet.

Headlamp - Get a decent headlamp. Black Diamond Spot is a nice one, Petzl makes some nice ones as well.

Good luck!

It's really not too hard to get started - just go where there's no buildings, and then stay there!

I like to find places that say "primitive" camping, which just means "less likely to be trashy people". I don't like to be at a campsite with 93 different tent sites, 92 of which are occupied by people playing music and drinking their bush beer at 3am and burning their styerfoam coolers. This may mean you get a campsite without restroom facilities, or with only a "vault toilet" (permanent porta-potty) - that's OK, you can go a day without a shower, it won't kill you. Be conscious that this is slightly more difficult for girls, if you have to pee in the woods, though.

Embrace the solitude; look up at the stars.

What kind of gear do you already have? You can get started super cheap if you're just doing some car camping and you don't want to get really involved in it.

There are a lot of posts and discussion all over the internet about how to shed weight so that you can go long-haul backpacking and do cool things way out in the wilderness, but cost scales like this with lightness. If you're just doing casual / first time / car camping, just go with some inexpensive gear until you decide, for you, what kind of camping you want to do.

For example, a three season sleeping bag will do you just fine for $23, for casual use. You may only get 20-30 uses out of it before you wear it out, but it's cheap. It's also good to have a sleeping pad; the old classic thermarest for $20 has worked just fine for people for 20 years, or an inexpensive inflatable pad at $25 makes a great choice. I usually don't bring a pillow, I usually wad up my clothes or jacket or both and use that as a pillow.

You typically want to have a tent that advertises (number of people actually sleeping +1) if you're doing simple / beginner camping, so for 2 people, get a 3-4 person tent. This is so you can fit all your gear in the tent. See if you can borrow one from a friend, or if you want your own, a 3 person tent or a 4 person tent will do just fine at $50.

It's a good idea to have some way to see in the dark, so bring a flashlight, or a mini lantern, or better yet, a head lamp is super useful.

You'll want to also remember to bring trash bags and toilet paper, in addition to the things you'd normally bring for an overnight trip (change of clothes, toothbrush, etc). Bring warmer clothes than you think you need, too - just in case. I can't count the number of times I've been camping, and thinking "Oh, it's only going to get down to 50 tonight", and because I'm far away from the city that the forecast was for, it actually gets down to 30 and I'm cold. Bring a jacket, bonus points for water-proof (in case it rains). Also, grab a small first aid kit (some bandaids, gauze, travel size hand sanitizer, neosporin, and a compression wrap should be able to handle most of what you'd need).

Bring water - especially if you don't know if there'll be potable water at the campsite. Just grab one of these things at the store is the easiest way. Bring a couple of disposable plates and some plastic cups.

Bring a folding chair! Don't bring anything that plays music! (annoys other campers).

For making food, I wouldn't bother with buying a stove or anything - just bring some charcoal and make a camp fire, and do "pocket dinners" or "hobo packs" - a great way to make a meal that is personalized to your tastes, and super easy. Grab some kielbasa or pre-cooked sausage, some onions, potatoes, brussel sprouts, bell peppers, mushrooms, whatever, make a big-ass sheet of aluminum foil by taking two big ass pieces of heavy duty foil and folding the edges together, dump the veggies in, wrap it up except for one end, put in about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water, then just put it on the coals for 20 min, flipping halfway through, and then when ready, grab it with some tongs, put it on a paper plate, open it up, and eat right out of the foil. Makes clean up easy - just throw the whole thing away. For breakfast, poptarts or energy bars or bagles (toasted on the fire on a marshmallow fork!). My favorite camping breakfast, though, is hard-boiled eggs with bacon salt sprinkled on them. We boil the eggs ahead of time, but it does mean you'll have to fit them in a cooler.

At night, make sure all the food stuff is back in the car, or in a secure (bear-proof, which really mostly means racoon proof) location. Same thing with the trash - put it in the dump location, or put it in your trunk to pack it out. Before you go to bed, also fold up your camping chairs, and put them in the car, or under the picnic table, or whatever, so that they don't get the dew on them.

And lastly, but very important, remember to read all of the state, local, and federal regulations about where you'll be camping. Some places won't let you have fires, some will let you have fires only in established fire rings, some make you sign a thing and print it out and bring it with you, etc. In California, we have to have a shovel and a bucket of water. Some places, you have to sign a wildlife / "crumb-clean" pledge, some places you have to pay in advance. Most places don't want you to bring firewood because of pest infestation risks, so plan to either gather firewood at the site or buy it from the rangers if they offer it. Some places will have restrictions on where you can park and how many cars are allowed, or how many people per site, etc. Some places allow dogs; most don't (?). A lot of places have specific regulations about alcohol, and some have regulations about smoking. Just be aware of all of this ahead of time.

Hope this helps! Dunno if it's what you're looking for, but ... well, there it is!

I've recently bought a lot of this stuff after doing a good amount of research. Here are my recommendations:

Tent - I would get an Alps tent if you want a good value tent but aren't as worried about weight. How many people will you be going with?

Sleeping Bag - I have this sleeping bag which I absolutely love, but I haven't been able to find it online since I bought it. It packs as small as down sleeping bags but costs a fraction of the price and will still keep you warm in 30 degree weather (which it's done for me).

Pack - I just bought the Osprey Volt 75L which I think is a great value even though I haven't used it yet. I got it for $140 on amazon and the 60L version is less expensive than that. I'm not sure if this pack is bulletproof but it has great reviews and Osprey products are known for their high quality.

Cooking- I use this pot which works perfectly with a pocket rocket. I'm not sure what you mean by fire making equipment but if it's not below freezing or at a high altitude, the gas canisters are the most efficient and reliable way to cook food. Also, they're extremely light. If you're using a fire to cook you'll need a heavier duty pot/pan.

Clothes - I just look for good deals and buy when I find one. Get a good shell that's waterproof and breathable. I have a Marmot Nano AS Jacket that I love. Just make sure you have a baselayer that wicks sweat away and other layers that can pack down. DON'T USE ANY COTTON CLOTHES!

Tools - Other than a knife I have found any tools that are useful for their weight. If you have a solid knife you should be good.

Misc - Here's other things in my list for camping/backpacking:

Sleeping Pad - I use the Alps Sleeping Pad. You definitely need a sleeping pad if you're camping in colder weather for the insulating properties. You'll lose a significant amount of heat through the cold hard ground without a pad. The Alps pad is a little heavier but they're very durable and a great value.

Paracord - It's always useful to have paracord for different things.

Water Filter - You need this if you're going to the backcountry. It's not realistic to bring enough water with you for a weeklong trip. I have use this MSR water filter and the Sawyer Squeeze. The MSR filter costs more, but works very well and is fairly durable. The Sawyer Filter weighs almost nothing, but it's a little more difficult to use and definitely more difficult if you're trying to filter large quantities of water.

Not everyone will agree with everything on my list, but I try to find the best value in my gear. I look for the best value in terms of price, quality, weight, and packability. There are higher quality options that weigh less but cost more. There are other lower quality options that cost less. You'll have to decide what your balance is, but this should be a good list to get you started.

For this scenario, I'm going to assume that you did not evacuate early, in which case you'd have had plenty of time to pack the car. So we'll say that you stuck around until getting out was no longer really an option and are now being evacced to a shelter. I'm going to start this off assuming that this only entails you and other adults, so if there are kids or pets please include specifics on those (including ages) and I will update for that.

Your BOB should include:

• A backpack, obviously. Large enough to do the job, small enough so that you don't over pack.
  
  
• Food: Three Mainstay 2400 bars which are available at Walmart for $5 each. Maybe pre-purchase one and give it a whirl before getting all three. If the taste isn't right for you there are other varieties like the Datrex bar. These are sealed water tight, last for up to 5 years, and will put up with extreme heat and cold really well. Make sure to put each bar in its own gallon ziploc freezer bag, as once opened the bars inside are not individually wrapped. The purpose here is to not be completely reliant on the shelter providing you food while also not having to worry about cooking/heating anything.
  
  
• Water: Rotate flats of bottled water in your house. In the event that you need to be rescued or bail out to the shelter, get a minimum of 3 liters into your pack. One per day. This way you're not completely reliant on the shelter to provide for you. It would also be a good idea to include a Sawyer Water Filter in case there are problems obtaining water. This is light weight and will allow you to get good drinking water for yourself from the bad if the fresh water situation does not dissipate quickly.
  
  
• Clothing: Have a change of clothes. Specifically, maybe even a couple of changes of underwear and socks. You'll really appreciate both. If you can, get it all in waterproof bags. If not, make sure the socks and underwear at least are dry. Preferably wool socks if you have them.
  
  
• Sanitation: Have your own roll of TP in another gallon sized freezer ziploc baggie. You don't know how much or if the place you go will have any. Also, tote along an appropriate amount of hand sanitizer. Not just for the bathroom, but for any time you interact with flood waters. I have disposable food gloves in my kitchen, and I'd probably consider tossing 3-4 pair in my bag. They're low weight and keep your hands clean if you end up doing some dirty work. Then... throw a stick of deoderant in your bag. That's not a necessity, but there's no reason to add more stink to what will likely already be a stinky environment. Consider also having some wet wipes in the kit to freshen up a bit.
  
  
• Health: You don't need a full med kit exactly, but have some ibuprofen or a pain reliever of your choice in fairly good amounts (others will almost definitely ask for some), some pepto tablets to either stop upset stomachs or to just back things up for a while if you don't want to use the facilities where you're staying, a small tube of antiseptic cream and band-aids for small wounds. With flood waters being filthy, you'll want to be able to treat minor cuts and scratches before they can become a real problem. Larger wounds you'll likely be able to get real medical treatment for, so you can just plan to take care of the small stuff yourself. Add in any medications that are specific to your situation as well.
  
  
• Documents: Have copies of documents that prove who you are and what you own. Have copies of insurance papers. Most importantly, have a list of phone numbers to people and companies that you would want to have in this situation. There is no guarantee that your cell phone will either survive or have a charge, so having a paper copy is crucial. Obviously you'll want to protect the more sensitive bits of info.
  
  
• Light: Have your own means of generating light. Invest in a decent 'waterproof' flashlight of some type. Here's a decent pair that won't break the bank but will give you some redundancy.
  
  Then there's comfort stuff. This one is a biggie and parts of it are largely optional, so I'll break down into its own section and you can pick what sounds best.
  
  
• First, make sure to have a charger for your phone, but if you want to be a really clever monkey then also include something that will turn one electrical outlet into many. There's near a 100% chance that someone else will have their charger plugged into an outlet with a line behind them. If you want to be sure of charging yours, bring an electrical splitter of some sort. You'll be a mini-hero to a bunch of folks, but more importantly you'll get to charge your phone. Write your name or initials on the splitter as well, just so you can prove it to be yours when you eventually need to take it back.
  
  
• Then also, you'll want to plan to take care of yourself for sleeping. A compact, light weight, and water proof blanket may well be useful for keeping you dry. Then you'll also likely want a compact sleeping bag, or maybe even one for two if you're with someone. Something small to port around, but that will give you a real blanket to sleep with. Then... there's no guarantee of a cot, so having a compact sleeping mat would probably be a smart call as well. You don't want to sleep directly on concrete if you can avoid it. For extra fanciness, don't forget a pillow, though you could probably make do without one.
  
  
• You might also want some ear plugs, as any shelter will be noisy... and people snore. Obviously sleeping with these in presents some dangers of not hearing what's going on around you, so use your judgement based on how safe you feel.
  
  
• Have cash, in small bills. Nothing higher than a 20, though plenty in smaller. Chances are atm's and credit card machines will not work, so you'll have what you have.
  
  
• Have some non digital means of entertainment. Maybe that's a book or two (though a water proofed kindle would probably last plenty long as well), or a deck of cards, or a compact chess board, or whatever tickles your fancy. Just don't rely completely on your phone for entertainment. It may be damaged or need a charge.
  
  
• Consider grabbing a camping tooth brush and a small tube of toothpaste. Sometimes it's the small things that make you feel human again. Might as well add in a small bar of soap as well in case you get a chance to take a 'sink bath'.
  
  
• Lastly, if you want to be a king of comfort in your new domain, you'll need a throne. Nothing special. Just a small back packable chair, but in a crowded shelter there might not be a place to sit other than the floor, so if you really want to splurge on this bag it's worth considering. Again, initial it so that you can later prove ownership.
  
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  That's the list off of the top of my head. You can easily stop at just the necessities, or go all in and plan to be comfortable in the situation you think you're most likely to face. Hope that helps.

It can be an expensive hobby, and it's best to spend the extra cash now to save you later. I'm on mobile so I apologize about links, but this is my basic set up. It's not the most ultralight gear, but I'm getting there.

My sleeping pad is very comfortable and lightweight. I've used this on top of rocks and slept like a baby. You could alternatively get the static V original and save $10.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00LGAQ7NW/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499891370&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=klymit+v2+sleeping+pad&dpPl=1&dpID=41rAtpRoKHL&ref=plSrch

My pack in my opinion is the top of the line. It has amazing comfort and holds more equipment than I need. Osprey is also a trusted brand that stand behind their products, your bag goes wrong, call there customers service and have it repaired. Alternatively you can go for a brand like Teton sports where a bag can cost in the $100 range and cheaper, but again, that bag might be ruined within two years and you have to buy a new one, versus your Osprey that will last a lifetime.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00MN17Y3A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499891485&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=osprey+65+atmos+ag&dpPl=1&dpID=41Gds7xXYJL&ref=plSrch

My tent is on the bulkier side of things at a whopping 4 pounds 12 ounces 😑. As you can see it's currently selling under $100. Besides the weight, the tent is very durable and does not leak water. The ventilation is not the best, but it is comfortable.

https://m.dickssportinggoods.com/p/kelty-circuit-2-person-tent-16kelucrct2pbckpccat/16kelucrct2pbckpccat

The sleeping bag. If there is one thing I need, it's a comfortable sleeping bag to wrap my body in. This bag is extremely lightweight and just over 1 pound. Warm, comfortable, and content.

http://www.hammockgear.com/burrow-econ-30/

My hiking boots are a little outdated and I was not able to find them online. They are timberland waterproof hiking boots. The most comfortable at this point, and could use replacing, but they were originally great. If I remember correctly I bought them for just over $100.

My setup alone is well exceeding $500 and because I went cheap with a few things (tent) and realize the difference those 4 pounds make, I'm now in the process of buying a newer, lighter tent. Those are just your main essentials as well, you need cooking utensils, first aid, purification, etc.

I hope I am not discouraging you, backpacking is amazing, but I want you to save up and take your time to get the right equipment so you can enjoy nature at its fullest and not feel miserable because your pack is crap and your back hurts and your tent gets a hole from a stick on the ground the first day. Best of luck, live camp.

I'm just going to drop in and advocate approaching backpacking with the ultralight philosophy. The key principle behind ultralight is to bring only what you need for any given trip and, ideally, nothing more.

Now I'm not saying don't pack things that will add value to your trip, but one of the biggest pitfalls to backpacking is packing in your fears. When people first start, they often bring excessive amounts of clothing, safety gear to outfit an expedition company, more entertainment than one might realistically want or use, or an entire kitchen - sink included. However, most people will discover that if they can lighten the load on their shoulders, they will end up enjoying trips much more. It's best to consider what you need (or even what can be shared in this instance!) - e.g. sharing shelters, cook systems, entertainment, food. Clothing-wise as long as you have an insulating layer (fleece or down jacket) and a rain jacket, and you're more than likely good to go.

So with all that in mind, let's talk about gear more specifically. If you're just getting started, it's best to borrow gear if possible. Sans that option, trying cheap gear is totally reasonable. However as with any hobby, there can be massive differences your random Amazon gear and even the bottom-of-the-barrel hobbyist gear. If you expect you'll want to pursue backpacking more in the future, consider looking into the ultralight and ultracheap gear list recommendations as well as the alternative options.

Since we're looking at coastal trips in California, you can safely estimate lows to be no lower than 40° unless you're truly up in the mountains. Sleeping pad-wise I'd recommend either an inflatable like the Klymit Static V or a CCF pad like the Z-Lite Sol or RidgeRest. I hesitate to recommend an ultralight quilt for a first-timer due to cost, but for reference a 30° HammockGear Econ Burrow weighs 18.62 oz, whereas the one OP linked weighs ~4 lbs.

There's a lot more to be said than what I've mentioned, so I invite y'all to check out /r/ultralight for more discussions on ultralight philosophies and gear. The wiki is a tremendously helpful resource as well. If any of you want a pack shakedown to have someone look over your gear list, feel free to reply or DM me, and I'll try to get back to you when I can. I'll most likely either be out in Texas or climbing Shasta for the weekend this trip will be planned, but have fun out there!

Also paging /r/ulnorcal - /u/Sharp_LR35902 /u/id3550

5 pounds?!? no way. The pack alone is 4.8 pounds.

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Honestly - I'd replace every one of those items. They are pretty crappy items in each category.
I realize that everyone doesn't have a big budget - but even at those prices you can make smarter choices.

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Backpack
A tactical backpack rarely does well for wilderness backpacking. It is heavy (almost 5 pounds) and does not carry loads well (weak hipbelt). This specific one is only 47 liters, which will unlikely fit your kit.

Any backpack can hold a water bladder. You don't need a special sleeve for this. I prefer mine on top of my pack, not in the sleeve. Easier to get at and refill along the route - allowing me to carry less.

I'd recommend going into a local shop and trying on a few brands/models. See what fits your body well - as fit is key to getting 'the best' backpack. Look at brands like Osprey, Gregory, and similar in the 55-65 liter range.

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Shelter
10x7 is an okay size for a tarp. I'd probably get this instead: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EUHZ74I
You'll also need a ground cloth of some kind. Tyvek can be had for super cheap and works well.

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Sleeping pad
That looks fine, but realize that it will insulate you very little (RValue of 1.3). I'd probably get this instead (because I know Klymit brand and not 'OutdoorMan'): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RFG0NM

If you really want to go cheap - just get a closed foam sleeping pad. Not as comfortable, but as cheap as $20.

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Kitchen
That DIY grill and cheap cook set look fine.
One option is to go to your local thrift store and look for a pot/pan. If you just need 1 single piece is often easy to pick up there for cheap.

Will you also have a camp stove? This is a cheap/popular choice: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B4FY8YO

Do you have a water filter / purification method? The Sawyer Squeeze is popular. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005EHPVQW/
You can use simple disposable water bottles like SmartWater or Gatorade for your bottles. A bladder is nice, but cost more and heavier.

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Accessories

• Rope - skip paracord. It sucks for just about every application outside bracelets. I'd get this instead: http://lawsonequipment.com/Cordage/Ironwire-Fusion-p1076.html
  
• Knife - sure the Mora is fine. Don't go overboard here, you really don't need much.
  
  Then you'll likely need a bunch of other small miscellaneous items. First Aid Kit, headlamp, lighter, pack liner, food bag, compass, maps, etc.
  Plus clothes of course.
  
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  A typical pack weight for an overnight adventure is 20 pounds. Weather is a big factor in what you have to carry, but generally 15-30 pounds is the range you'll find the majority of experienced backpackers. 5lbs would be a ridiculously low pack weight (with or without consumables like food and water). I'd recommend you shoot to keep yours under 30, since you are new and used the word 'bushcraft' haha.
  
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  In the end - these are merely suggestions for improvement. You can totally get outside with the items you listed or nothing at all. Experience is the real key here. Try to borrow some items and spend the weekend outside. Take notes on what worked and what didn't, make changes, and try again. A kit of gear evolves over time and getting it 100% right on the first try is impossible. It helps to put serious thought into these items, in hopes of saving money, which is why I generally suggest to 'buy once, cry once'. Otherwise you buy 2 crappy versions, then ultimately realize what you should have bought in the first place - to buy that 3rd.
  
  

Hey! I'm the op of the bestie blanket thread. The bestie is great for my two year old but is just not quite wide enough for an adult for comfortable use. It's also not water resistant.
I actually have a better suggestion for adults. My favorite thermal blanket that I use ALL the time (camping, car trips, movie night, etc.) is the Snug Pak Jungle Blanket. I can't recommend this blanket enough. I'm basically in love with it. It's water resistant great for cool weather and also works great as a sleeping bag liner for those really cold nights. Is great for hammock camping. It also has a stuff sack that packs down smaller than a football and is pretty light for back packing situations.

This is my absolute favorite piece of camping equipment. I don't leave my house with out it.

Snug Pak Jungle blanket

ETA: its rated for as low as 36 degrees!
Hope this helps.

I don't think you'd find a -5C sleeping bag that will pack small enough to backpack easily for $100CAD unless you find some very good sales. You'd need to choose a synthetic and it would likely be quite bulky and heavy, or it will be rated very liberally and wouldn't keep you as warm as it says.

Personally, I wouldn't cheap out on a sleeping bag anyways. Especially in cold weather, you want to be comfortable and warm away from civilization. You can check for deals on websites, I like TheLastHunt for past season gear but the good stuff gets snapped up very quickly and there are no returns unless the product comes damaged or different than what is ordered so you need to do your research in advance.

At full price, you'd probably need to spend another $50 minimum to find something rated to keep you warm at -5C. However, if you take care of a well made sleeping bag, it should last 10+ years with little loss of loft.

You may want to consider saving up a bit more and just purchasing a nice sleeping bag. You do have something like a Coleman or a Teton brand as an option, but it's going to be absolutely massive and the temp ratings are likely not very accurate.

Personally I chose a MEC brand (the Draco -9C) down sleeping bag. They are quite a bit past your price range (even the cheapest that fits your needs is about double your range.) I also have a 2C Chinook brand bag that I got for very cheap, but it's a summer bag.

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If you want my honest opinion, don't cheap out on a cold weather sleeping bag. Other pieces of gear failing might be fine, or if you are car camping you have a safety net, but if a sleeping system fails you when backpacking, you could possibly be in a lot of trouble. If you can, spend a bit more and get something you can trust and enjoy your time in. $200-300 for something that will last you years and years is worth it.

Otherwise, buy a cheap bag and bring a whole lot of layers to sleep in and prepared to sleep quite uncomfortably and take up 50%-75% of your backpacks capacity.

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Also make sure you use a sleeping pad, as it will add a lot of warmth to your sleep system. A friend likes this one that is fairly inexpensive and robust, with a good r-value for 3season use.

There is a lot wrong with this list, so I'm just going to work down it one by one with my thoughts on the matter.

USB flameless lighter? Why? That is going to be unreliable, at best. Throw a few BIC lighters and some stormproof matches in there and be done with it. IF you want to be fancy, get something built to be rugged, that will stand up to use in the field:

https://www.amazon.ca/Ultimate-Survival-Technologies-Floating-Lighter/dp/B00C85NBA6/ref=sr_1_2?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482173178&sr=1-2&keywords=camping+lighter

Speaking of, I didn't see any sort of firestarting material. Warmth is going to be important, and you need as few steps as possible between you and fire. Get some quality firestarters. I am trying to keep all my links relevant from amazon.ca, so some of the brands I'm most familiar with aren't there. But these work well (though there are options from Wetfire and other brands that take up less space):

https://www.amazon.ca/Ultimate-Survival-Technologies-Fire-Stix/dp/B00C6SHODK/ref=sr_1_20?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482173338&sr=1-20&keywords=emergency+fire+starter

What is with the mall-ninja "tactical" hatchet? That is a lot of weight and not a lot of utility. You'd be better served with a reliable and lightweight folding saw, and a good full-tang fixed-blade knife. Something like a 7 inch Corona saw:

https://www.amazon.ca/Corona-Cutting-Tools-RS-7041/dp/B00004R9YN/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482173467&sr=1-1&keywords=corona+folding+saw

If you insist on carrying a hatchet (and their function in a bugout situation is debatable, especially for the weight) get something quality like an Estwing:

https://www.amazon.ca/Estwing-E24A-14-Inch-Sportmans-Sheath/dp/B00BNQR4SG/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482173510&sr=1-1&keywords=estwing+hatchet

Nothing wrong with duct tape, but you'd do well to wrap just maybe 3-4 meters of it around a small core (like from doggy waste bags, or even just around itself).

The self-crank radio/flashlight/phone charger is shit. You also don't need four lights, especially if all of them are crap. Buy one good flashlight, and maybe one good headlamp.

A flashlight like a Nitecore P12 or something that runs on an 18650 and offers long runtime would be ideal. If you buy a diffuser cap for it, you can replace the lantern. Pick up some spare, high quality 18650 cells, as well. The P12 has SOS and beacon modes, which will run for days at a time, in addition to a nice throw and excellent brightness on Medium and High.

https://www.amazon.ca/Nitecore-Flashlight-Lumens-Meters-Distance/dp/B00PQE1D2E/ref=sr_1_2?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482173859&sr=1-2&keywords=nitecore+P12

As for headlamps, those don't need to be super bright. You want something with enough brightness and floodiness to work around camp. But ideally you also want a red-light or low-light mode for night time, when you don't need to destroy your night vision just because you need to take a piss or something.

https://www.amazon.ca/TACTIKKA-CONSTANT-LIGHTING-HEADLAMP-DESERT/dp/B00GCGIGHK/ref=sr_1_14?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482173989&sr=1-14&keywords=petzl+headlamp

The powerbank thing in the crank radio is crap, only 1000mah. Not enough to charge most modern smart phones even 25%. Figure that of that 1000mah, ~25% will be lost just due to inefficiency in the charging process. Get a 10,000mah or bigger high quality battery, with 2.1A ports, and be done with it:

https://www.amazon.ca/Anker-PowerCore-Portable-Ultra-Compact-High-speed-Charging-Technology/dp/B0194WDVHI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482173708&sr=8-1&keywords=anker+usb+power+bank

Combine the money you'd spend on the shitty folding knife and the shitty Gerber multitool, and buy a proper multi-tool. You don't need two folding knives.

The Leatherman Wingman is a good value, though I prefer a nicer quality one like the Charge TTi, but at four times the price it may not be worth it just for an S30V blade.

https://www.amazon.ca/Leatherman-2996-831426-Wingman-Multi-Tool/dp/B005DI0XM4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482174264&sr=8-1&keywords=leatherman+wave

Ditch the camp toilet paper, that stuff is like wiping your ass with cardboard. Get some biodegradable camp wipes from an outdoor store. You can now use these to clean your ass, and they also are useful for wiping your hands, or taking whore baths.

Same with the camp soap. Are you bugging out or camping for a week? Nothing you are going to do in a bugout situation is going to necessitate body soap. Toothbrush, floss, deodorant.

Ditch the giant first aid kit full of crap you don't need. Those things are heavy and 80 of the 85 pieces are just different sized bitch stickers. Build your own first aid kit tailored around the likely injuries you would face: sprains, cuts, burns. Maybe throw some Quik Clot Z-pack gauze or a tourniquet (CAT or similar) in there for larger trauma, if that is a concern to you. Limit the bitch stickers to 5-10. All gauze, tape, trauma pads, alcohol wipes, tincture of iodine, moleskin for blisters, tweezers, surgical shears, gloves, maybe burn cream. Small containers of medications you might need: aspirin, antihistamines like Diphenhydramine, anti-diarrheals, etc.

That survival paracord bracelet thing is garbage. You already have 100ft of paracord in your list (which you could probably cut down to 50ft). You don't need some shitty firestarter, whistle, and compass thing. Buy a real lensatic sighting compass. Not going to do you much good without a map and the ability to understand it, anyway.

https://www.amazon.ca/UST-Survival-Essentials-Lensatic-Compass/dp/B005X1YI3Q/ref=sr_1_5?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482174799&sr=1-5&keywords=compass

You have both a cookset AND a mug/pot. This is extra redundant and not needed in a bugout situation. Stick to food you don't have to prepare. Caloric density is your friend. Jerky, EPIC bars, Clif bars, etc.

If you need to boil water, use a single-wall metal canteen (NOT a thermos). Remove the plastic lid, fill with water, set in your fire. Widemouth canteens like those by Klean Kanteen are multi-purpose (multipurpose is your friend). You can sterilize water, you can cook and eat food out of it (because of the large opening), and you can fill with hot water, wrap in a sock, and warm your sleep system.

https://www.amazon.ca/Klean-Kanteen-Stainless-Bottle-27-Ounce/dp/B0027W6WHE/ref=sr_1_sc_4?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482174908&sr=1-4-spell&keywords=klean+kanteen+widemouth

You don't need a can opener if you have a good multitool.

Lifestraws suck ass. They only work as a straw, and I am going to guess you don't want to get your water by drinking out of puddles exclusively. Get a Sawyer Squeeze mini filter. This can be used in-line with a hydration bladder, can be used like a Lifestraw, or can be used to filter an fill your water storage containers/bladder:

https://www.amazon.ca/Sawyer-Products-SP128-Filtration-System/dp/B00FA2RLX2/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482175065&sr=1-1&keywords=sawyer+mini

One seriously lacking area for you is your sleep system. A tarp and a space blanket are not going to keep you functionally warm. You might survive a night, but you won't be useful the next day.

At the BARE minimum, you should get a good, reflective, breathable bivvy sack, like this one from SOL, AND a sleeping pad. A bivvy will reflect heat back onto you, helping with heat lost through convection, but no sleeping bag will help with heat lost through conduction (you touching the cold ground). That is why a sleeping pad is mandatory. I have used the Escape bivvy and the Klymit pad linked here together, and both kept me comfortably warm to about 50 degrees F. Below that, I've had to augment with base layers or jackets, and that still sucked. If you are hoping to sleep in below freezing temperatures, you'll need a properly sorted ultralight sleeping bag.

https://www.amazon.ca/Adventure-Medical-Kits-Escape-Bivvy/dp/B00EVGD0FQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482175280&sr=1-1&keywords=SOL+escape

https://www.amazon.ca/Klymit-06SVGR01C-Camping-Mattress-Green-Grey/dp/B007RFG0NM/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1482175199&sr=1-1&keywords=sleep+pad

Other recommendations of mine would be to take survival, medical and foraging guides and put them on a smartphone, along with a GPS mapping software and pre-downloaded offline topographical maps at 1:24k resolution of your main bugout areas and 1:100k resolution elsewhere. Something like Gaia GPS for iOS or Backcountry Navigator Pro for Android:

I'm going to be trying out my Aegismax bag next week when I hike the Loyalsock Trail. I'm expecting highs in the 80s and lows in the 50s, but wouldn't be surprised if it got into the 40s. Aegismax says the comfort zone is +2-8C (35-45F). I tried it out overnight last weekend and was right on the edge of comfort during the coldest hours of the night. I think it was in the low 50s or so, but I didn't have a thermometer. I didn't use a liner, and I was sleeping in my skivvies. I'll admit I was a tad disappointed that the comfort zone wasn't anywhere near 35F, but I know I could improve on that by wearing long underwear and/or using a liner.

The point is it's going to depend on the quality of the bag, your sleeping clothes/liner, and your pad. The latter is very important. The Aegismax is super cheap and super light (under a pound), but relatively low quality. A fleece blanket becomes a viable option when it's warm enough.

As for combining two bags for winter, I can't tell you for sure, but I would imagine that it wouldn't work very well. Sleeping bags work by trapping warm air, and I think that using two quilts on top of each other would cause too much air to escape. I use a 20 degree bag, liner, and base layer in the winter on top of a CCF pad and an inflatable pad. It works pretty well because I can keep the warm air inside the bag, although my shoulders get cold because it's a rectangular bag. A mummy bag may work better.

If all you want is a simple sleeping pad, those are cheap and easy to find, and they'll serve you pretty well indoors. The Therm-a-rest Ridgerest Classic should do you fine (I've been using Therm-a-Rest's stuff for ~20 years), and it's inexpensive. Or you could literally just go get a Coleman from Walmart, or something similar from pretty much any outdoor gear store, and that would be fine for indoors, and should work OK on the occasional camping trip.

If, however, you want something that packs up a lot smaller, weighs less, and is far more durable and comfortable (like if your camping trips involve hiking miles from your car before making camp, or camping in the snow), then maybe look at some of the better options from Therm-a-Rest, like the ProLite or ProLite Plus (I use the Plus, and have for ~10 years, as I'm a pretty tall guy (6'4"), and it's nice to have both my head and feet on a pad when I'm camping in the snow). I'm not trying to say that Therm-a-Rest is the best/only option here; I just have a lot of personal experience with them, and they've always been a great sleeping pad. Light, durable, and very comfortable. Well worth the extra money, in my experience.

Sleeping bags: I just upgraded to enlightened equipement quilts and would suggest it but I believe those are out of your price range. My old bag was a eureka silver city 30F (retailed around $80). My husband used to use a teton sports 20F bag off amazon (cheap, sorta light for a budget bag, and decent quality).

Sleeping pads: You mentioned thermarest sol. I own a zlitesol pad and it is a great pad. I like that I can strap it to my pad very easily (accordion shape). It has a decent Rvalue for its weight as well. The pad is bombproof--it will take a beating and still work great. On the other hand it isn't particularly comfortable. I ended up upgrading to a exped synmat ul7 pad due to the fact that I am a side sleeper and the zlite started to hurt my hips especially in cold weather.

cooking utensils: This depends on what you plan on eating. I simply use a titanium long spoon. (It also comes in a spork version). I prefer the long handle because I tend to eat a lot of the dehydrated packs of foods. The long handle keeps my fingers from getting sticky/covered in my dinner.

Food: For dinners you cant go wrong with the simplicity of a dehydrated pack such as Mountain house. My favorite flavors include lasagna with meat sauce and chili mac. Only downside is that they are not super healthy and tend to be on the heavy side. For snacks I will take an assortment of cliff bars, snickers, trail mix, pepperoni, babybell cheese, crackers.

first aid kit: mine is homemade and has tape, tweezers, small roll gauze, a few bandaids of various sizes, 2 alcohol wipes, benedryl, emergency blanket, small amount of repackaged ducttape, safety pin, triangle bandaid, zip tie for gear repair, 6 waterproof matches, spare AAA batteries (for headlamp).

hiking socks: I use several different kinds. I love my darn tough and cabelas mini crews. I also have a large fluffy pair of wigwams for sleep socks.

pants: DONT WEAR JEANS. I wear a pair of woman's trail pants by Cabelas. My husband wears a pair of zipoff pants also from cabelas.

base layers: I use midweight in those temps. Wouldnt hurt to heavyweight if you are typically cold.

Hopefully this helps. Good luck and have fun.

Enjoy your trip, in terms of your gear, this is my experience:

• I like Kelty a lot, I have a Kelty Grand Mesa 2 (http://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Grand-Mesa-Tent-Person/dp/B004NWAPV0) and haven't had a problem in the 12 or so uses. It's light, and I haven't had any issues with not having a groundcloth.
  
• I'd check out this sleeping bag on Amazon if you're just getting started - it's cheap, TINY - it also comes with a stuff-sack, and quite effective. I've been camping in under 30F weather and it's kept me warm (with long-johns and pulling myself fully into the bag). Link: http://www.amazon.com/Suisse-Sport-Adventurer-Ultra-Compactable-Sleeping/dp/B001TR7QZA/ref=pd_sbs_sg_1
  
• Another note: Get a sleeping pad - it may seem like a small convenience, but it's important. I like mine, but I've seen a lot of people with these small yellow eggshell pads that fold up and my brother loves his.
  
• In terms of the bag - I've played with smaller versions of them and they're... interesting. Depending on the model it's somewhat difficult to pack or get things into because of how the structure of the bag prevents you from reaching into it. Some brands are better than others. Also, if you want something that's in just that awkward spot, you have to unzip the whole bag to get to it (the zipper wraps around the bag).
  
  Edit: For the bag - make sure you have nice spots for placing water on the outside. I have an older bag where the outside pockets get extremely tight when loaded, and it's frustrating when you have to stop to get water.
  
  Best of luck!

For that price you won't be getting ultralight on the big 3: backpack, sleeping bag, and tent. Unfortunately those are the largest, heaviest, and most difficult to go light weight on a budget. The majority of the other items are pretty good UL gear. You can, for example, get a lighter titanium stove. It'll save you about 2oz and double the cost. Eventually the 2oz there and a few more oz here and there on a number of pieces of gear really add up so you may want to swap it out as you upgrade your gear over time. But for right now one in the price/weight range I suggested is really good ultra light weight bang for your buck.

1. Alice Backpack $35 -- Watch some youtube videos on how to strap your tent/sleeping bag/sleeping pad to the pack safely and securely. Alternatively buy a used backpack off Craigslist for dirt cheap. This is the third thing I'd upgrade, once you have a lighter/smaller sleeping bag and tent.
   
2. Slumberjack 40 degree sleeping bag $98 -- Upgrade to down-filled rather than synthetic if you can, also make sure it's temperature appropriate for your trips. This is the first place I'd personally choose to upgrade.
   
3. Coleman Sundome $36 -- Any name brand dome tent is great for beginners. I picked a 2-person since you don't seem to know what you're doing (not an insult) I assume you'll be bringing a buddy! This is the 2nd thing I'd personally choose to upgrade to something that compacts down small enough to fit inside my backpack.
   
4. MSR Pocket Rocket butane stove $32 -- Not the greatest or the absolute lightest, but one of the more popular light weight stoves. A can of fuel is $5 at Wal-Mart or pretty much any sporting goods store.
   
5. Primus Litech 10oz kettle $25-- From this kit you really just want the pot and lid. You can leave the pan at home. According to the ad it is big enough to hold the 230g sized butane cannister previously mentioned. I suggest either eating things that require no cooking or just boiling water like any number of Mountain House or alternative meals available in the sporting goods section of Wal-Mart or any sporting goods store.
   
6. Stansport Back Packing Pad $10 -- One of the simplest items to upgrade, but "nicer" ones are $30-100+.
   
7. Titanium Spork $9 -- The only cookware you'll need for most those backpacking freeze-dried meals where you just add hot water and eat out of the pouch.
   
8. 4-pack of ponchos $4 -- These are stupid small and light. They're shit quality and rip easy so they're mostly one time use.. but at $1/ea you can pack one per day, who cares? Nice rain gear is hella expensive.
   
9. Base Layer -- If you don't already own it, buy some polyester/spandex "athletic" under-shirts and pants. They're stupid light, wick away your sweat, and add lots of warmth per ounce and cubic inch of pack space. I picked up a random set from Ross yesterday (bottoms and short sleeve top) for $20 combined. Generally speaking, avoid cotton for all clothing.
   
10. Rip-Stop/hiking/tactical pants $40/pair -- I can't pick these out for you because sizing/style preference, but the fairly cheap ones are about that price per pair.
    
11. AMK First Aid Kit $23 -- This is likely way more than you need and you could probably put together a decent one in a zip-loc baggy with stuff you have around the house. Don't forget to add any prescriptions you have or anything for special needs (allergies).
    
12. Survival Whistle $6 -- You can find cheaper ones at Wal-Mart maybe...
    
13. Signal Mirror $8 -- A woman's "compact" makeup mirror could get you this for free
    
14. Aquamira water treatment drops $14 -- You may also prefer iodine tablets or a filter. You can get a basic Sawyer filter from Wal-Mart for about $25.
    
    That totals out at $365 and covers most of your bases of things you'll need to buy. Most everything else is going to be like soap, toothbrush, etc. which I'm assuming you already have. I really like the HikeLight 3-day camping checklist. You won't be able to get most (any?) of the gear on this list at your price range, but just make sure you have a comparable replacement. Yours will likely just be bigger and/or heavier than their suggested ones. http://hikelight.com/gearlist.html
    
    Happy backpacking!

Hey all. Relatively new to the ultralight scene, but have been trying to go lighter weight over the last few years. Will probably still be a while before I'm true ultralight (6lbs for the big 4?), but my current plan would have me at 7-7.5 lbs for the big 4. Was curious about your input / any suggestions for improvements:

• Tent - Naturehike CloudUp2 (owned) - $120, 3.30 lbs (shared with wife, 1.65 lbs)
  
• Pad - Klymit Static V (owned) - Bought for $50, 1.15 pounds
  
• Bag - Mountaintop 40 Liter Hiking Backpack (owned) - Bought for $27 in an amazon lightning sale, 2.05 lbs.
  
• Sleeping bag - Hyke & Byke Eolus 15 degree 800 FP down bag (plan to buy) - $150, 2.54 lbs
  
  Overall, $350/7.4 lbs for the big 4. I definitely know there's room for improvement and I will probably be replacing things as I can afford it. The most obvious place for improvement is the bag, but I'd actually bought one for my wife as a temporary hiking bag for our first hike-in camp together but we ended up both really liking it. It's comfortable and for $27 it was hard to pass up, especially as it has all the compartments I like in a hiking bag (i.e. access to the bottom section for the sleeping bag). Welcome to criticisms and suggestions.
  

I would not recommend this. choices differ between if you are backpacking/hiking to a camp or just driving in/car camping. Gear can be expensive or reasonable but If you are just starting out, I would not recommend buying expensive gear before you know what provides you value. Everyone's different so some questions only you will be able to answer once you go a few times. I would recommend going conservative on cost to start out until you know what you prefer (Checking out other peoples gear on camping trips/ REI browsing sessions are a gold mine)

​

Sleeping Bag depending on what the night time low temps are (based mostly on how high the elevation youre going to be sleeping at this time of year) you don't need a sleeping bag, I would instead recommend a light packable down quilt like the one from Costco or This cost: $20-$40

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pricier sleeping bag option

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XE2SKG2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=darwionthe-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00XE2SKG2&linkId=faa0813c08ae84dc66e192d16eef9fde

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Sleeping Pad Basic sleeping pad :https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZWW2FD/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=darwionthe-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LZWW2FD&linkId=7f466defe405f13e4d8f457436a33b6c $35-$40

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I personally use the Klymit Static V, You can get them refurbished for very little on Amazon/Ebay

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Tent Lots of options here, a few of them good for a low price. Decision is if you're going to be going solo or taking company (Size) and again how light you want to go on the weight. Freestanding tents generally provide more shelter but can be hotter in the summer and generally heavier. Some people choose only a light tarp setup for ultralight backpacking. its a personal choice but I would definitely take some time to think what suits your need on this. A few options.

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(requires trekking poles) light

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01J9XWJEI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=darwionthe-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01J9XWKHY&linkId=df511cfe28f404892810dfcda5f5560d&th=1&psc=1

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Freestanding option $112

https://www.amazon.com/Kelty-Salida-Camping-Backpacking-Tent/dp/B00NFCFO0Q/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1563337921&s=gateway&sr=8-1

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Cheaper $95

https://www.amazon.com/ALPS-Mountaineering-Lynx-1-Person-Tent/dp/B00BMKD1DU/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=1p+tent&qid=1563338006&s=gateway&sr=8-3

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For the tent I would recommend spending a little more if you are strictly buying for car camping, itll have more longevity and youll be using it for a few years. This is my car camping tent. $260

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https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M87LPMU/ref=twister_B07BWCR88J?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

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I would highly recommend investing in some permethrin/bug spray, a good hat and a Head Net to go along with it.

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Happy trails.

So, I just went through my Amazon orders and pretty much every single thing I saw that I bought for myself I thought was the best thing I ever purchased.

With great pain and strain, I narrowed it down to these three things:

• Inflatable Japanese Soaking Tub // I've always desired a deep bathtub that is in the Japanese soaking tub style. I had dreams of remodeling my bathroom to put in such a bathtub but when I priced it out the price tag had a lot of figures and made me very nervous. This device packs up to the size of two furled full size golf umbrellas side-by-side, but also fits into my existing bathtub and creates the soaking tub I so desire. Oh, and it cost under $100. Far less than a bathroom reno.
  
  
• Klymit Static V Insulated // It truly is a super crazy comfortable sleeping pad/mat for side sleepers. I camp with a quilt, rather than a sleeping bag, but that hasn't been a problem.
  
  
• ThermaRest Ultralight Cot Knock Off // At $40 vs $100+ for the name brand, but with the additional cost of 2 lbs, I am really happy with this cot. It is delightfully comfortable and I use it when traveling. I can sleep on my side without any sore spots developing.
  
  Edited to add links.

Used gear is hard to find outside of specialized communities. The Backpackinglight forums used to be the best place for that, but I haven't been there in a long time. The Whiteblaze forums also has a decent trade forum. This site searches some popular forums.
https://lwhiker.com/used-gear-search


This tent is supposed to be a clone or rebrand of the older REI Halfdome 2. It's already a very good deal, but occasionally it goes on sale, once under $30. I don't need a tent, but I'll get one the next time I see it on sale.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-43-Ounce-Ultralight-Backpacking-Tent-Sleeps-1/55533609

This one is much lighter, although it's a one person tent. I have one on the way. I'm skeptical about the dimensions and weight, but hopefully I'll have experience with it by the end of the week.

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/590G-Camping-Tent-Ultralight-1-2-Person-Outdoor-20D-Nylon-Both-Sides-Silicon-TrailStar-Pyramid-shelter/32792535051.html

Klymit has some very good pads, and they also sell them refurbished on ebay.

If you go ultralight, it usually also means super compact gear too, which means you won't need anything special for a pack. A 40L Coreal pack that sells for $20 on Amazon might be totally sufficient, but buy a pack last so you don't waste money buying a pack that's too big or small. I have a 35L pack for 3 season weekend trips with everything inside the main compartment or pockets with plenty of room to spare, and while I've been at the ultralight thing for years, I'm far from extreme when it comes to ultralight.

People going ultralight often use a specialized backpacking quilt rather than a sleeping bag. The pad provides insulation underneath, so the quilt just cuts that section out. The hood is lost too, so you have to use separate headgear. It may be your most expensive piece of gear, but it's lighter than comparably rated sleeping bags and costs much less. If you get a quilt, make sure it's not the narrower width used for hammocks unless you'll be using a hammock.

I'm tempted to get one of these for warmer weather. It can really save weight by serving as a coat.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZZ5B4GD/?coliid=I9HZK3G73YDZV

For other temperatures, here's two good small companies with budget priced quilts.
http://www.hammockgear.com/econ-quilts/
https://www.locolibregear.com/gear.html#!/Saver-Series-Serrano/c/23556109/

If you absolutely must have a sleeping bag, the stuff from Hyke & Bike is a decent value. I have one. The zippers are a little grabby, but that's usually the case with budget gear made in asia. It's much bulkier and heavier than any of my quilts, so I don't use it very often. I think you get a $20 coupon if you sign up to their emails.

I love my Klymit. The thing folds up to the size of a Nalgene bottle and is way more comfortable than you'd expect. I'm 5'10, 190lbs and like to sleep on my side and sleep great on this.

Other alternative (which is decidedly NOT convenient and is bulky, but is insanely comfortable if you're going car camping or using it stationary in your apartment and don't need to lug it around) is getting a memory foam mattress like this. I pull this out when friends crash at my apartment and they have all raved about how comfy it is. It's also great for cold weather camping, since the foam is a great insulator. I had this one on a trip that got down to 37 overnight and it kept me super toasty.

Already posted in the r/ultralight x-post, but decided to share here too to give a perspective from someone who has done some long distance hiking with lightweight gear.

Few quick things that came to mind:

>30L collapsible ultralight backpack with chest strap - These are great and they barely take up any space. (Weight 8 oz)

Collapsible packs can work well, as long as the straps are wide enough. A proper frameless hiking pack (MLD, Pa'lante, Zimmerbuilt, KS, Atompacks, etc.) would work best at around 10-13oz.

>Inflatable sleeping mat - (weight 8 oz)

Is it insulated?

Gossamer Gear Thinlight would be lighter (2.5oz, 70g), though quite spartan. Can be used as a sitpad too.

-5.5oz

>Tact Bivvy Compact Ultra Lightweight Sleeping Bag - These are amazing. No need to say anything else. (Weight 5 oz)

This one? Prepare for sweaty nights.. It might reflect some of your body warmth back, but being waterproof means that also all moisture will be kept inside the bag. If you're planning to have a tarp, I don't see reason for 100% waterproof bivy bag.

Personally I'd ditch the sweat bag and get a proper quilt instead. A cheap one like Aegismax 'Wind Hard Tiny' (~15oz) or something similar from a more reputable manufacturer. It's heavier, but much more usable and comfortable if you're goin to spend more than one night using it.

+10oz

>Mora stainless steel Companion knife with sheath - (Weight 4 oz)

Personally I'd prefer a 2 oz lighter Opinel No 8.

-2oz

>Survival cord 100' - (Weight 10 oz)

100' of Dyneema cord would weight.. what, 2 oz maybe?

-8oz

>Fire kit with two lighters, small folding knife, Ferro rod, and dryer lint - (Weight 8 oz)

You're already carrying a knife, no need for a folding one. Two BIC minis (1oz), Ferro rod (1oz), dryer lint (1oz)

-5oz

>Ultralight poncho/tarp - (Weight 8 oz)

Many quite like the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape. At 11oz it's slightly heavier than the unnamed ponho/tarp, but it's a proper shelter. No need for waterproof bivy with this one. Though a bug bivy wouldn't hurt..

+3oz

>Headlamp (with red light capability) with extra batteries - (Weight 6 oz)

Nitecore Tip or NU25 are around 1oz and USB rechargeable. You have a power bank, for sure?

-5oz

>2x P51 Can openers - (Weight 1 oz)

Two..? Ditch one. Even the one won't see too much use as canned food won't be the first thing you want to carry in your pack (heavy and low calory density).

-0.5oz

>Zachary Fowler Survival card - (Weight .5 oz)

Few proper fish hooks would weigh maybe 0.1oz.

-0.4oz

>Plastic Camping spoon/fork combo - (Weight .5 oz)

A titanium spork weighs the same and won't break if you accidentally sit on it.

>Purell - (Weight 8 oz) field sanitation and fire starting

Are you sure you'll need 8oz? Half should be good for a long time, and you could probably find other sources for alcohol before using all.

-4oz

>Ultralight Biofuel stove - (Weight 5 oz) cooking to be done in cans or other salvage

What exactly is this?

>Respirator and extra filters - (Weight 8 oz)

I'm not sure of a scenario where a respirator and extra filters for it make sense. Either the need is well known beforehand (riot, civil unrest), meaning that there's time to source the respirator from a store or leave the scene before one is needed, or it's such an emergency that it won't last so long that extra filters are needed (fire hazard).

Basically, can't see need for an 8oz respirator kit. And I'm saying this as someone who has used a gas mask in real situations (tear gas, both in service and in civilian life), and also improvised protection devices (swimming goggles and a scarf work reasonably well against tear gas). For a fire hazard there are IMO more important ways of preparation than a respirator.

-8oz

>Collapsible trekking poles - It seems lame, but these make the difference between 12-15 mile days and 30-40 mile days. (Weight 14 oz)

A pair of carbon fibre poles are around 10z.

-4oz

---

All in all, potential weight savings of 29.4oz (835g), which would make the GHB a tad over 5lbs. Weight savings could be used for a proper frameless hiking pack that'd be more comfortable when you add the weight of clothes, water, food etc. on top of your "base weight".

No clue if this is going to be helpful, but I agree that those clamps will rust if they live outside and I'd like to provide some ideas from a campers perspective, as we like hanging tarps. All of these options need some small rope/paracord/bungeecord/whatever and something like an stainless eyelet screwed into the post, though they end up being simpler mechanically and easier to adjust.

1. Try to find a blanket with corner ties. I don't know if they have another name but they look like the tassle things on poncho liners.
   
   
2. Generally only tarps (not picnic blankets) have grommets but its something to think about. You can even buy grommets on their own and sew them into the blanket of your choosing if you are handy with a sewing machine. High end camping tarps like this aren't like the ones at walmart and have reinforced corners, often with D-Rings. Not cheap though. If you like stuff like this there is other fancy hardware from Dutchware that make stringing it up easier.
   
   
3. Low tech and versatile, you can use the method campers use to string up a tarp when the corner rips out. Get a small round object (a rock or something) place it into the fabric from one side and tie a knot around it from the other, it will look like this
   
   
4. Last one doesn't have traction in camping that I know of and I've never used them before, but something like these clamps might be worth a shot for the price.
   
   Edit: fixed the last link
   
   
   Good luck!

Woke up to rain, and the gear worked great!

I made sure to tie small drip lines to all of my suspension (including the tarp suspension) and not a drop came in. Even had the tarp relatively high and in porch mode all night (for the view of the moon).

Hammock is just a cheapo Grand Trunk that has served me faithfully for about four years without any trouble. Although I'm deciding that the extra comfort of moving up to an 11 foot hammock will probably be worth it soon.

Eno tree straps

Eno profly tarp

homemade PLUQ worked wonderfully during the ~50 degree non-windy evening.

Jungle blanket: This was my first time using it instead of a bag, and man oh man was it great. Was nice and cozy down to 50 degrees, and I didn't get tangled in it like I do in my sleeping bags. Recommend 100% if you don't want to drop the dough on a down topquilt. Maybe even if you do, since this seems way better in the wet than down would.

River is the Potomac, and I got it all there on my bike. About 40 miles outside of DC

Those are the poles, I actually edited my reply, perhaps while you were typing out yours.

I cant really say anything about the tent, you will have to trust the reviews. It still looks a bit heavy at almost 7lbs but with your budget I am not sure how much better you can do. You would need to bump up to probably close to $200 just for the tent. (For example: my wife and I took the marmot limelight 3 person tent out and it weighs in at just under 7lbs, I still felt it was really heavy splitting the cost.)

That sleeping bag has actually been debated recently. For the price it is hard to believe the claimed rating, there are concerns that it wont be warm enough. If you do go with that one you might want to try it out somewhere close to home/car first if you can.

I don't have a lot of experience with specific sleeping pads but the klymit static V insulated is a pretty popular budget option and has a 4.4 r value. It is currently $55. Its comfortable enough , my wife used that one when we went out.

If you happen to be near an REI check and see if they are having a members garage sale on December 1st, many locations are. They can have some huge discounts on gear, you just have to be careful before you buy as there are no returns. I got a 3.4lb 2 person tent for 60% off and the REI magma 10 sleeping bag for 50% off. The prices might be a little more than your current budget but you can really find some awesome prices on quality gear. If you aren't already a member it will be $20 to join (lifetime membership).

You got this. Start sneaking the things that matter to you into the truck you want to take so long as your wife won't notice (i.e. put the tarot deck you like in the glove box). It's not much but it will feel like something.

One trick I've heard from people who voluntarily lived in their cars was that they joined a cheap 24 hour gym so they could shower. When you're ready to leave, check Good Will for secondhand camp gear if you need it. If you want to splurge, this is the one I used at a music festival. It was great.

If you feel like putting down roots on the east coast and need a safe place to park, give me a buzz.

Just a note- if you're going the car camping route and want to go super cheap on the sleeping pad, I grabbed this for $12 on Amazon. It isn't the comfiest but it will definitely help with warmth. I've used it as a base layer in a tent and also inside my hammock as insulation against the air and it has worked well for both. Just not the comfiest is all.

If you grab the Coleman bag and a cheap pad like that, you at least won't be miserable and you won't have spent a lot. And then you can save up for a nice setup for backpacking since your $100 max budget isn't really enough to get you there.

We actually went in late March, but Utah had a much colder winter/early spring last year. It got to the upper thirties overnight, and all three hammockers used sleeping bags and inflatable pads for warmth. I personally used a 0-degree Teton Leef bag and insulated Klymit Static V, and slept in thermals, fleece, down vest, and a beanie. I like to sleep warm, haha.

I'm confident enough about the trees that if I had a permit for #5 right now, going just off what I remember, I'd bring a hammock and maybe a bivy sack just in case. I'm like 90% sure it'd be fine. The campsites are beaten down enough that going to ground wouldn't be super difficult anyway. Note, though, that the trees in #4 are pretty low and bendy, so don't be surprised if you wake up on the ground anyway.

BTW I found a blog of someone that camped at #5 but the only picture that says it was taken from the campsite was this one.

edit: you HAVE to go see Kolob Arch; it's amazing.

Future children, eh? Hee hee hee. Things get wild out in the woods ;)

We just upgraded our (car camping) gear. We went with two Rugged Exposure Woodsman sleeping bags that can zip together (they're on sale right now too!), a Klymit Double V sleeping pad, and our insulation pads. The sleeping bags are HEAVY but feel like real comforters, the flannel is just that extra bump of luxury. We're going camping tomorrow and I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OP, as for the cold and damp issue, what temps are you camping in? I used to wake up in the middle of the night while camping because my head and feet were too cold. I'd recommend insulating yourself against the ground (it'll leech away all your heat as you sleep) and wearing a beanie and socks to bed if you think that could be the issue.

The moisture could be from cold sweat or just condensation. Someone mentioned not touching the walls of the tent as this will draw the dampness in, and I agree. If the moisture comes from the fact that you're camping somewhere humid, I'm not really sure what to do. You need to make sure that the hot moist air generated from breathing while you sleep is able to escape the tent. Make sure you position your tent on dry ground and leave the rainfly off or the windows vented.

There is no 100% effective way to escape the moisture as far as I know. Unless you have two kids who can sleep against the walls of the tent while you sleep nice and dry in the middle (thanks mom).

Just going over what I've seen on your list, there's a few things I would leave out or at least have shipped to myself later on during the hike:

TP: Ditch it, Just stick with wet wipes (more luxurious and there's usually TP at shelters)

Waterproof matches: Not really needed. One of those things I ended up tossing. Mini Bic lighter was plenty for sparking fuel.

Solar Panel: I'd stick with an Anker battery. Lots of foilage on the AT, sun is spotty at a lot of spots on the trail but YMMV. I didn't have many electronics, just an iphone I kept off during the day. Would recharge it when I got in town.

Kelty Cosmic 20F S. Bag: During cooler months (March, April) it may be helpful but if you're doing a north bound hike, you'll likely want to swap this out for an Army Poncho Liner. I used this exclusively with a sleeping bag liner for warmer summer months (May, June, July etc).

Water: 2liters is plenty. I normally carried just 1 liter and would top off at streams as I hiked. Lots of water on the AT but you'll learn where the dry spots are as you hike along just listening to other hikers and local knowledge.

I would recommend a small FM radio that takes 1 AA battery and some small headphones/earbuds. That's just an example, there's plenty of cheaper options on Amazon. Kept me sane when pounding out mileage during the day. Sometimes I found myself completely alone at times. Hearing a voice on the radio is amazing! haha

Good luck with your hike, I never finished mine due to a knee injury. Made it to Virginia. That said, I learned more about myself and hiking abilities in the first week than I would have imagined.

A sleeping pad (or something that acts as one) would be a worthy investment if you don't have one yet. Sub-zero is hard no matter what, but even a foam pad will keep a lot of heat in rather than losing it to the ground.

Something like this, for both you and the dog, would help. Doubling it up, or using it with extra blankets, would add some more warmth.

https://www.gossamergear.com/collections/sleeping-pads/products/thinlight-hammock-pad

This is a cheaper option, but I've never personally used it:

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trial-Camping-Pad-Blue/16783660

In the winter, I would likely not discard the Coleman just yet. Keep it, and get a larger bag to use as a blanket (opened up) with the both of you underneath.

I can't really comment on how good this bag is, but this is what I'd be looking for:

https://www.amazon.com/Sports-Mammoth-Flannel-Sleeping-Degree/dp/B000F38YHI

It won't be warm enough down to 0°F on its own, but paired with another bag and a decent foam pad, you'll be comfortable. You could easily fit a dog in there, and could open it or bundle up as needed. Teton is another brand similar to Coleman, not the best but popular because of the price. You could probably get away with a smaller one, too- but this one would be nice if you have enough width for it.

You could also look into emergency blankets and/or emergency bivys to help reflect heat back at you. I also have a lightly insulated jacket I keep on my short-haired dog when it's cold out- even an old hoody with the arms cut off would help.

Ehh I'd be wary. You can find gear for cheap, you just have to do some searching. Looks like you've got plenty of time to do that, too. If you're not willing to commit to backpacking as a hobby just yet, don't worry about buying the $300 sleeping bag. I have a $40 one I got on Amazon and it works amazing if you run hot. We have a "guest" backpack that we got from Costco for $25 (yeah it's not the best engineered pack, but perfect for someone who only goes once every few years). Costco is also great for cheap, non-cotton clothing and socks. They should be getting all of that stuff in in a few weeks.

REI gear sales are the way to go for headlamps, pads and tents. This is a good mid-level cooking set for two, and the Pocket Rocket is a good quality, low price stove option.

Basically, for the cost to rent, you could get mostly set-up with mid-range gear you can keep. You've got the time to find the good deals, why not take advantage of it?

Also, super jealous. I've always wanted to go to Glacier N.P.

Since you've mentioned that you are a complete novice, I would recommend sticking to car camping until you're more experienced. Having said that, a tent and sleeping bag and sleeping pad will be a good first investment.

I have a Wenzel Alpine tent. Certainly not the highest-end tent on the market, but it has served me very well.

I also have an ALPS Mountaineering self-inflating sleeping pad.

These should fit your budget nicely and be an excellent entry point into camping for you.

Any generic sleeping bag will be OK to start out with, just be sure its temperature rating fits the environment in which you plan on camping.

That you're camping in Australia reminded me of this recent post in which a blogger recommends this biker-focused swag tent. Seems to be a fair deal and while I have no experience with it the blogger reckons it's a good bit of kit as you Aussies might say ;-). Most likely you won't be borrowing your parent's tent. The car-camping type tents don't really get along well with motocamping. Sleeping bags and maybe the air mattress or sleeping pad are more likely, or a bit of cooking equipment. I'll throw out some random recommendations based on stuff I like and let you decide how it fits into your $500 =).

I find backpacking equipment seems to parallel motocamping equipment in many respects. You aren't as concerned about weight on the motorcycle, but you do need compact and reliable. You may want to consider a backpacker's inflatable sleeping pad, [this is the one I have] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ANRW7DI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1). It's no mattress but it insulates you from the ground which helps keep heat in, and it provides a bit of cushion too. It will fit inside the swag, a hammock, or any compact backpacking tent, and it packs up small. I have this tent which legitimately sleeps two as long as you don't mind being close (tested with my girlfriend) and should fit a twin sized inflatable mattress which would be substantially more comfortable than the camping pad I linked above. To make an addition to your luggage, I can't recommend a tank bag enough. I have this tank bag which is truly a bargain and should fit any motorcycle.

I would also check out Aerostich's Camping Section for some ideas. Being that you're in Australia I'm not sure if you want to buy directly from them unless you can't find an item anywhere but their website, but there are tons of ideas you can get from their store that you might not find other places.

Now I'll just list off several items I can think of that I like to pack for motocamping (most are small and multi-functional items, and a few specific get-my-ass-out-of-a-jam things):

Tire plug kit, some way to put air back in the tire (compact air compressor, CO2 cartridges, bicycle pump, etc), several feet of 550 cord (AKA paracord), extra bungee cords, extra cargo net, zip ties, electrician's tape, heavy-duty trash bags (maybe 3 or 5), a small supplement to my bike's OEM tool kit & a multitool, a first aid kit that includes bug bite relief (and anything else you might want specific to the area you're traveling), a sam splint & triangle bandage, a couple ways to start a fire (waterproof matches stored in a watertight container & a cigarette lighter usually), one or two of those mylar emergency blankets, a little mild dish soap.

You might not feel the need to carry all that on a 3 day trip but a lot of it is small, cheap, and multi-funcitonal. Trash bags are to keep trash under control at camp and emergency waterproofing for gear/people, so you want the thick ones.

Take a look at the Kelty Salida 2 is what my search-fu came up with.

Originally I was going to recommend the REI Half Dome 2. I've had mine for years. You can shave weight by ditching a ground cloth if you want but the weight over all is a bit higher than you commented.

Your price range will drive the options available, your weight requirement will limit that even more. If you want to use this as a Bug out type tent keep in mind the quality, uses and durability of what you're buying. I do understand a sealable tent is good to keep out bugs and weather.

My personal BOB 'tent' is:

• an army poncho as the tent (Doubles as a...poncho/shade/rain catchment/litter/sack)
  
• with some special fit poles (to turn it into a free standing tent)
  
• coupled with a multiple use casualty blanket [edit] as the ground sheet, can also wrap up in it too. It can be used for most of the same uses as the poncho.[/edit]
  
• a modified poncho liner (I added zippers around it and in the middle to make it more like a sleeping bag. You could use a heavier duty SOL Bivvy instead
  
• and a Therm-a-rest Z Lite which can be used as a seat too.
  
  I've used all of the above in various weather and stayed warm and dry. Colder weather I'd just keep a few layers of clothing on. Warmer weather I'd just layout on top of the poncho liner and be just fine. I do like the ability to just jump the fuck up and go into action without being impeded by zippers.

Yea, "craps table" :P


You guys sound rad! Keep it up. Just a few suggestions in case you haven't thought of them:

• microfiber towel (cheap on Amazon, dry super fast)
  
• headlamp (because you somehow always ending up arriving late and setting up a tent needs 2 hands)
  
• Morrivoe Outdoor Folding Chair Portable Mesh Chair with Aluminum Alloy Support,Suitable for Camping Picnic Fishing Hiking + Free Carry Bag (Green) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01M8IBYVC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_DI6RybVGZ2D8Z
  Packs up very small, lightweight, super comfy. Because your butt needs a good lounge after a full day of riding. A rock/stump/picnic table doesn't cut it
  
• Klymit 06SVGR01C Static V Camping Mattress (Green-Grey, Large) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B007RFG0NM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_VM6RybFHWN4Z1
  There is no better mattress for bike camping. It packs down the smallest and lightest. While being 100% comfortable.
  
• zip ties, paracord and duct tape wrapped around an old credit card. Because you can fix absolutely anything with this trifecta
  
  
  Hope that helps!

I have the Lynx 2 person tent and like it.

The Lynx 1 person also looks like a fantastic option.

Only thing I don't like is their performance in the wind. If the wind hits the sides it'll blow into you a little but if you are not in a field you should be more than fine.

Are you trying to put your bike into it too? I just ran a chain around a tree and through the bike and then ran one of the tents supports through and made it supported by the bike so noone could remove it while I was sleeping.

Here is something that kinda includes your bike but it's not going to shield your bike if that's what you want.

My personal recommendation is to go with one of the lynxs and then use the rest of your budget for a decent flashlight/lantern, and a sleeping pad.

This is my sleeping pad and while nice, I would recommend getting something a little bigger because I would roll on the edges pretty frequently.

I have that tent and I really love it! Maybe think about those foam squares that connect together on the floor to protect their little feet from the rocks underneath the tent? I would totally get a screened in tent for over the picnic table, but only if you go yearly. Idk if it's buggy by you but I couldn't imagine having crying kids with mosquitoe bites!



I have this air mattress and cot combo:



Coleman 2000020270 Cot Queen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AU6AVLW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_QTQ7CbKYRV0ZB



I absolutely love it. Never deflates like the others do. I mean it does maybe an inch or two but never enough to feel the cot underneath. Just pump firm before bed and you're set. Battery powered pump that's separate from the mattress. My partner (200lbs) and I (160lbs) sleep on it with no issues. You could use the cot and the mattress separately if you guys ended up not being able to fit the four of you. Good luck! :)

I'm not sure where you live, but buying gear in Scandinavia will cost a pretty penny. You probably need an ~15F/-10C bag to be comfy (as the weather looks to low around freezing). Else look for a COMFORT RATING around freezing (32F/0C). While a $300+ bag will probably be "better" (by better I mostly mean lighter) you should be able to find something reasonable for quite a bit less assuming you don't live in Scandinavia. Both of the bags you were looking at are from reputable companies, I can't read them (google translate isn't working for the site) but if they are within the ratings above and are acceptable in size/weight they will be fine. Make sure to get a good mat if you don't have one. I recommend klymit. Hope this helps!

As for warmth, best easy solution I've found is to take a regular bed comforter (Queen) and lay it into the hammock. Pull the edges over the sides of the hammock (you're inside, so no worry about dragging the dirt) so that you have about 2 feet on each side, with the rest tucked into the middle. Sit into the hammock, lie back, and put a pillow behind your head (and one under your knees if you find your legs hyper-extend during sleep sometimes, causing slight leg discomfort). Then, cover yourself with a poncho liner -shop around for a good deal- which keeps you from getting too hot or cold... the perfect hammock companion. Finally, cover yourself with the sides of the comforter hanging over the sides, kind of like a burrito. For really cold nights, I will add a fleece blanket from your favorite team or show before the poncho liner. For really hot temps, I throw a battery fan on the tarp line above my chest, and it keeps the poncho liner cool and fills the hammock with a cocoon of cool air.

I have used this setup indoors and outdoors, and it has kept me warm and comfy in weather down to 10 degrees... and I sleep in nothing but boxers outside (just add a ski mask if outdoors that cold to keep the nose from freezing). The comforter acts like an underquilt, so the cold breeze on the hammock is not noticeable, and the whole setup is a fraction of the cost my friends have spent for much more uncomfortable nights of sleep.

This is exactly what you're looking for. It's perfect for someone who is open to backpacking but doesn't want to spend a ton of money. Great reviews and price point for what you get - not super heavy, compresses down pretty small and comes with a compression sack, warm, and has a hood and draft collar. People have hiked the AT with it, even.

I used it for months out backpacking, hitch hiking, and general rough tramping in the PNW and in Big Bend this winter, no problem. Classic mistake is throwing a bunch of money on the latest and greatest without knowing what you like and what works for you. Get the more basic essentials and upgrade on a case by case from there. Down is nice, yes, but a bit too much for someone just getting into things.

No worries!

It works wonders, so long as it's tight! (Preventing pooling, moving in the wind etc. Sleep a lot better when you aren't hearing shit flapping over your head.) You can put it long and low in windier conditions or taller when you are pretty well covered.


The way you had your's setup would normally require either: A) Two of those things zipped together, or B) A much much wider one to cover both sides and the ground.

Really, it looks like you were trying to keep yourself out of the dirt, which is where the bivvy comes in normally. Obviously if absolute what-can-I-deal-with-minimalist is what your going for, you are on the right track.

OH OH OH! (Sorry I get excited when I talk about this kind of stuff.)

Check this out: The Z-Lite from Thermarest. They DO make a rollup that will probably last longer since it isn't being folded, but I love the fold since it can be packed in one fluid motion if you have to di di mau.

Besides some (questionable) wear due to the square shape/folding, the only complaint I have for it so far (besides permanently taking up residence on a pack) is that it doesn't cover up really rough terrain quite as well as an personal air-mattress (I'm pretty light so I was able to make due on rocks and roots, but a heavier-set person might have issues, and it's a bit thin for the winter. As usual, YMMV. I've seen them stocked at just about any serious outdoor/camping/hunting store.

Happy camping!

I look forward to checking out your blog more often, I'm hoping to get a piece of property the size of yours one day, the mind reels with possibilities!

NINJA EDIT: I forgot a critical downside to my praise of the Z-Lite and bivvy. They actually don't go together quite as well as other gear because of how easily it folds, so it's a bit of a pain to actually put the sucker inside the bivvy and keep everything totally clean and dry. But if you couldn't care less if your mattress gets a bit dirty and you don't roll around like a Reliant Robin it's good to go.

I haven't bought a sleeping bag for a few years but it looks like there are some decent ones out there for reasonable prices. I found this one on Amazon for cheap.
Looks like it's not the lightest option but compresses small and has good reviews. A 30 degree bag will be fine in July- you could get away with a warmer rating if you want to.

As for a tarp, anything will do. I've used hardware store blue tarps, pieces of sheet plastic, Tyvek house wrap, and army surplus ponchos for that purpose. The poncho was great because it doubles as rain gear. You don't need to spend a lot of money.

Wow, fantastic answer. Thank you!

By cheapish I mean all gear for the trip for under about €500.

Re Gear: I couldn't find suppliers for the gear you suggested in Europe and shipping was very expensive from the US so what do you think of these.
Tent
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping Mat
Stove set
with something like this as a bear bag (with rope etc)?

Re Food: Yes there is alot of villeges/towns along the way. However I was looking at this and thought it might be a good idea.. I will look into water purification device as well.

I don't think my budget will extend to a GPS device this time around so a map/compass + smartphone it is!

Sorry for all the silly questions. Your answer the last time helped a lot!

For the backpack, I'd suggest the Osprey Atmos 65 AG. I have that pack and you only feel a fraction of the weight on your back. I was blown away when I switched from it to my old pack, the difference really is night and day. You should go in store to get your pack, they'll fit it for you and even put some weight in it to simulate a full load. I went to REI and they fitted it for me while I was there. As for the sleeping pad, Therm-a-Rest pad is your best bet. They make a variety of pads depending on how much you want to spend or if you prefer foam vs inflatable pads. I use a Z-Lite Sol. Its great at reflecting heat and keeping you warm on the cold ground. They also make inflatable versions that might be a bit more comfy. Sleeping bag and tent are a little more tricky just because there's so many options. I couldn't tell you what brand sleeping bag I have, but it keeps me warm at night and that's all I care about. I've never had an issue with Kelty bags in the past but they do tend to be on the heavy side. As for tents, I use a North Face Triarch 2. It might be more than you're willing to spend on a tent, but wow is it light. It can also be a little cozy with two people, but I've never minded it. The MSR Hubba Hubba and the REI Half Dome 2 also fall into this category of ultralight tents. You might want to check out /r/ultralight if you really want your pack to weigh as little as possible. Also check out /r/campingandhiking. I always check Reddit before I choose my gear and these subreddits come up often.

Don't worry you should be fine, in 50-60 degree weather I would imagine the Yoga mat will be enough especially with a low tarp. If you want to read I'll throw some tips below for you.


Try to look up where wind flows while camping so you can avoid areas with cold air and wind. One tip is don't camp where the ground is lower, cold air collects lower to the ground, such as a valley. It also follows water corridors so next to a stream. You may know all of this but for hammocks it's more important since the wind can cut underneath.


The tarp can help considerably especially if you cocoon it a bit by pegging the two corners to the opposite side to make closed doors. I've done this in shoulder season temps with lacking gear in much lower temps and the tarp is what really kept all the heat (very first trip).


If you don't test it in a park/backyard first then at least make sure you are taking into consideration what you would require if you needed to hike out instead of stay. I have a headlamp that has a red light setting that can be used at night since it is much harder to see red light in the dark. Just make sure you do what you are comfortable with. Don't ignore any warning signs of insufficient health and comfort of yourself because they come for a reason and only get worse with time.


And just to clarify, the effectiveness of a camping mat comes from the material it's made from and the thickness of open cell foam, from what I can google. Most mats I can find seem to be an open cell foam of a plastic base. It seems most yoga mats are either closed cell or open cell made from a different plastic or type of rubber. Other eco friendly mats may vary. If you were to buy yoga mats, try to get open cell closed cell ? and it should do better based off of my google fu.


I know that 20 per is likely out of the picture in this if the yoga mats are 8, but you'll be wasting 24 and then have to rebuy or you could get 3 regular sized of the thermarest classic for 20 each and not have to rebuy. Obviously, your situation is what will discern what your choices are and I don't presume this is an option; these mats are just popular and effective.


Have fun out there!

It's nothing fancy, but I absolutely LOVE this sleeping bag. It packs to about the size of a milk jug, and it's still pretty warm. I've taken it on countless trips, and it's still going strong.

• Tent fan. I went pro my first year and won't go back. 60 bucks is worth it. Course, then I had to buy a deep cycle battery, but it lasted all week (and a half). Plus it was awesome for the one year I did exodus (11 hours....you know what year it was). We could avoid using the blowers in the car and instead just used the fan to keep us from dying.
  
  
• Fuck air mattresses. Fuck them in their little air hole. Foam is the way to be. I have a four inch full sized foam mattress that folds up, and yes, it's a bear to transport because of how much size it takes up, but I live on playa for three weeks. This thing is the ultimate luxury. I then place it on a "queen" sized Coleman cot. It's a full size cot that holds a queen size air mattress on it, and man it was loud. Much better with the foam. Seriously, sex on that thing was like sex on a megaphone.
  
  
• Someone else mentioned it, but a sheet covering your bed during the time you are not sleeping in it is wonderful. Do you know how many times a day you say, "oh shit, I forgot [something dumb] in my tent, better go in!" If you have a raised bed, especially, you'll more than likely lean in the door of your tent and put your hand down on the bed and bam playa bed.
  
  
• Someone also already said this (I think) but I take two sets of plastic drawers with me instead of bins for my smaller items. It's so much more fun to root around in a clear drawer than in an opaque bin. All my shit lives in those during the year, so if I randomly decide I need something from my burning man kit, I can grab it.

You and a hand warmer in a reflective bivvy bag, in a synthetic sleeping bag, under a cheap down quilt. You can probably put it together for near or under $100 (these links total $114.66), and you have options to adjust how warm you need it to be, so it works winter and summer.

I used this setup (with a different synthetic bag that was on sale at the time) for some very cold nights. The heat reflective bivvy is a little uncomfortable sometimes, but it makes things so much warmer (and it’s much more comfortable than a Mylar space blanket). I now have better down quilts and no sleeping bag at all. Synthetic bags often provide better insulation, but are also bulkier and heavier than down. I needed smaller, lighter insulation. I also now use a USB hand warmer instead. Never tried hot water in a Nalgene bottle. 🤷🏼‍♂️

This setup’s warm enough that I didn’t need to wear a lot of layers, just my base layer, wools socks, and a down jacket.

It can be hard to find new ones online that are not cheap knock offs, but e bay for poncho liner, and buy a used one from someone selling a lot of used ones, usually indicates they have a good stock of them.

If not, the Snugpack Jungle Blanket is a pretty nice alternative as well, in terms of a very warm, very rugged blanket that packs light and small. Its specifically designed to fill the same roll as the woobie. I have one, I use it as a couch blanket, but it is very warm.

Here is a link to the snugpack jungle blanket, for the woobie/poncho liner just search woobie on ebay:



https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BTHREMK/ (Jungle blanket)

Klymit static v is the best buy of the inflatables

The Z-lite Sol - regular is on sale here is the best buy of the foam pads. Naturehike knockoff

My recommendations on what to look for: Comfort supercedes weight in my opinion. Get whatever setup you need to sleep well. If you are a side or stomach sleeper, I recommend a wide pad. Wide pads start to be a problem when you have to put them side by side in a smaller tent. Warm pad is also helpful. We spend hundreds for a down bag to keep the top and sides of us warm... then spend dollars to keep the bottom of us warm. The problem is in the metrics. R value for pads, vs temp ratings for bags. Pads should be (and easily could be) temp rated like bags. I recommend a warmer/heavier pad for the most versatility because you are most likely to be camping in cold conditions where it matters, more than warm conditions where it doesn't.

For the heavier/taller people or side/roller sleepers this mat is 30inches wide and 76 inches long. It weighs about 2 pounds (ouch) but you might want to add a pound for this comfort range. Klymit static v luxe insulated. It also comes in a lighter uninsulated version.

20 inches wide is not wide enough in my opinion. If you can sleep like a mummy on your back with your arms crossed above you, then 20 inches is fine. Other than that... measure yourself... you'll find you are wider than 20 inches. This will lend you to balancing precariously on your pad.

Not FI related but a camping tip. I'm not sure where you and your girlfriend live but if it gets cold, I highly recommend a double sleeping bag like this one: TETON Sports Mammoth 0F Queen Size Sleeping Bag Perfect for Base Camp while Cold Weather Camping, Backpacking, and Hiking; Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F38YHI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_YJzzybKN833SE

We have that one and love it. It's more than paid for itself in hotel rooms I haven't had to pay for because my wife is cozy in the giant sleeping bag!

Eagle scout here and I've been thinking about how to get back camping almost weekly since I got my chair. The absolute best solutions I've come up so far involve a straight leg pop-up tent, this product which turns a 10'x10' pop-up into a walled tent (they also have a 12'x12' option), and something like this cot so I can avoid transferring to and from the floor.

Other options I can suggest would be to rent a yurt or contact a local renn faire/SCA group and ask if anyone is willing to rent out/loan a pavilion tent for the event

If the terrain is not wheelchair friendly and replacing the rear wheels with some "Sumos" or other mountain bike-esque fat knobby tire, and your budget allows I also suggest looking into the Rough Rider wheelchair from Whirlwind. It's a folding all-terrain wheelchair designed so most if not all parts can be sourced from hardware stores if need be, runs about $900 USD.

Good luck with the planning and wishing you much happiness!

I'm doing my first camp in a long time next week with the scouts too. We are in Utah, but expect 30s overnight.

I am taking a cot, with an insulated sleeping pad, and a 0° bag. My son is fine in his 0° bag in a hammock, he's done a few at this temp without being too cold (even without an underquilt or pad).

I'm also a side sleeper, and feel too tight in mummy bags. I picked up a Teton Sports Polara bag, it was a little cheaper a month ago when I bought it. It's really nice. I tested it out with the cot and insulated pad, and it was very comfortable. It has a built in fleece liner that won't get all twisted because it clips and zips into the bag. They unzip fully, so you can get 2 and make a double bag. You can remove the fleece liner for warmer weather.

I will also be trying out an inflatable pillow for between my legs instead of a body pillow.

Check with your local REI store, see if they have a garage sale between now and the camp. You can get lots of stuff at about 70% off. I got my insulated stratus pad for $20 that's normally $100. Klymit makes a decent one that's well reviewed on Amazon and cheap.

Because I am rusty with camping, and getting involved with the local scouts, I will be camping more in the future, but have little to no supplies. I'm building my new supplies now. I have been reading a lot of Outdoor Gear Lab reviews, I like their reviews, they compare different brands instead of just reviewing one product at a time. That's what lead me to the Polara sleeping bag. They also usually have a budget pick.

Hey! I was in that general are too up until recently. I'm no mold expert but I can only suggest my own setup, which may come across as a non-answer, but I don't sleep on a mattress: I sleep on an inflatable air mattress, like for hiking (this one specifically). Super minimalist but for whatever reason I feel comfier than on big real mattresses. I haven't had mold/mildew problems with that inflatable mattress, mainly because…there's no 'inside' really for the mold spores to cling to, and if it gets dirty it's super easy to disinfect the outside of and just wipe down.

If you're a big-bed sort of person, there are definitely bigger (like full-sized) inflatable mattress options out there. I also like mine because with limited space, I can roll it up and stow it every morning and basically have loads of floor space back

So that's an option

This time of year you can get away with a cheaper -4C sleeping bag, but if you have a little extra coin, get a better one.

A compression sack for the sleeping bag.

These are good mattresses.

Bring a light coat. This can double up as a pillow at night.

If you plan on cooking anything, a pocket stove and a fuel canister, and a 1L stainless steep pot. Spoon or fork (I just cook dehydrated food).

A tent with a fly.

Headlamp.

Bear spray and small air horn.

A few pairs of socks and underwear.

Baby wipes.

Ziplocks for trash. Toilet paper. Ideally a bear canister.

Toque, long johns, pair of sandals.

Food.

50' of parachord.

Light clothes that are NOT cotton.

Cook a very decent distance away from your tenting area, and clean a good distance away from your tenting area. Avoid strong smelling food. Know what a bear hang is and learn how to use it if it's available.

I own a Snugpak TravelPak 2 sleeping bag. It's less bulky than some bags I've owned, I think it's around 2.5 lbs (which is very heavy for a 40° bag). It's rated to 30° but you'll freeze your butt of below 40. Upgraded to a down quilt and don't touch the TravelPak anymore. Not bag for a heavy beginner bag but I'd go with this bag if I could do it over again.

Right around November I purchased a Bunker 3 tent as well. It's a really nice tent. I like the fly-first pitch, I could see that coming in handy. I've used it a couple times and now have it up for sale. I'm getting into backpacking which means lighter stuff is preferred so at 7.5lbs the tent is just overkill. A great tent but I think you could grab a lighter weight Kelty for half the price.

I have an Osprey Aura 65 that I love. It is very comfortable and can hold a lot.

Sleeping pad: Thermarest Z lite. Cheap and light and comfy. https://www.amazon.com/Therm-Rest-Lite-Mattress-Regular/dp/B005I6R0WC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503837564&sr=8-1&keywords=z%2Blite%2Bsleeping&th=1&psc=1

Pillow: https://www.amazon.com/Trekology-Ultralight-Inflating-Camping-Pillows/dp/B071ZPMGQ9/ref=sr_1_4?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1503837613&sr=1-4&keywords=camping+pillow

Don't listen to people who tell you to leave your comfy stuff behind, if that is what makes camping fun for you - bring it. Your chair, your cup, your coffee, your wine, your fresh clothes so you don't feel disgusting.

Pack your pack with what you think you want to bring (including water) and then walk around with it for a while. If it feels horribly heavy, unpack and see what you might leave behind - maybe you don't need as many changes of clothes (I am guilty of this one) or you can repack your toiletries into much smaller containers.

Then go on your trip! (weigh your pack before you leave) When you get back, get out your kitchen scale out and weigh things individually. Add up the weight of the things you didn't use and realize how much lighter your next trip will be. (except first aid stuff, which you won't always use. But that shouldn't be more than 5 ounces or so.)

And I wouldn't go post over at r /ultralight just yet. They will tell you things like "you don't need 2 bras" or "you can sit on a log and just eat your instant coffee to save the weight of the stove!" Obviously they have never experienced boob sweat. And I say this lovingly, I post over there. Reading there can give you some ideas though.

And car camping is a good way to bridge the gap between glamping and camping. It's how I started camping. It just lets you figure out how your tent set up will be, whether your cooking kit works for you, how your meals work, etc.

Costco Down Throw is a good, cheap option.. but honestly only if you intend to do some MYOG and modification to it. Personally, I dont really like using the blanket on its own.

Here's a review I did on a summer sleeping bag from Aegismax: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yh9VHCmiovU

I think it fits your needs perfectly. It's technically a bag, but can be used like a quilt as well. It seems that this version actually has a hood now, but mine does not.

$75:
https://www.amazon.com/AEGISMAX-Urltra-Light-Sleeping-Three-Season-L200cmW86cm/dp/B00XE2SKG2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1510252488&sr=8-2&keywords=aegismax

I've been really happy with the performance of my Sea-to-Summit SparkII sleeping bag, very light at 16.4oz ~ 35F lower limit. Purchased mine from REI with a 25% discount during their membership deals earlier this year which would get you under the $300 price point.

Ultimately, it will come down to understanding the versatility you need and if you want a bag vs. quilt. Also, given that you are posting in /r/Ultralight, you will receive recommendations for bags and quilts pushing your $300 max, with the weight savings and warmth of 850-950 down fill.

As already mentioned, Enlightened Equipment is worth checking out. Also, Marmot and Mountain Hardwear both make some very nice, lightweight bags.

There are cheaper alternatives while still lightweight, such as AEGISMAX and Hyke & Byke, that can be purchased on Amazon or Alibaba. You can find some decent reviews and threads of those in this subreddit. Good luck!

Probably not, unless you have something to insulate you from the ground. You need a sleeping pad, and not just a regular air mattress. Something that is specifically designed to keep you warm when sleeping on the cold ground. Sleeping pads are usually rated by an "r-value". The higher the "r-value", the warmer it should keep you. There are cheap foam pads to very expensive inflatable pads. Doesn't look like you're form the US, so I am not sure how hard it would be to get your hands on a Klymit Insulated Static V, but they're pretty affordable, comfortable, and warm. They're not great for backpacking but they are great for car camping.

I recently spent some time tent camping above the arctic circle. The biggest thing is just to have a warm place to sleep. That means a sleeping bag that is going to be adequate for the temperatures you're going to be dealing with. If you're going to be backpacking, you'll want to get a down sleeping bag good for around 0F. That will keep you warm in most conditions and because you can either not wear anything if it's hot or wear full thermals/down jacket to bed if it's really cold. If you're going to be car camping most of the time you can get a really warm synthetic bag for way cheaper than down, but it will be huge and heavy. (which is fine if you're car camping). Aside from a warm sleeping bag you'll want to make sure you have a sleeping pad that will reflect your body heat back at you so the ground does not suck the heat out of your body through your sleeping bag. I would recommend a z-pad and a blow up backpacking mattress. You could also use a huge coleman blow up mattress if you're car camping.


The other thing is food. If it's really cold you won't want to be cooking something complex. I usually bring a can of chili and some bread or something to quickly cook in a jetboil.


Obviously you'll want to make a fire so bring wood if you have a car. As far as activities go, when it's cold you're just going to spend the entire night sitting around the fire eating and drinking.


Just make sure you dress appropriately or you're going to be miserable. That means layering. Thermal base layer, warm pants, medium weight fleece, down puffy over that. You may want gloves and a beanie for sleeping.

Yes they are off my list because I ended up purchasing them. The pad was the [Klymit Static V](Klymit Static V Lightweight Sleeping Pad, Green/Char Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RFG0NM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kesFxbNDWCCR4) and the bag was the [Teton Trailhead 20](TETON Sports TrailHead 20F Ultralight Sleeping Bag, Orange/Grey https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007JTLKCC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_dgsFxbG1YRZ7S). I wasn't feeling the quality of the Teton bag so I ended up returning that. Never used it on the trail but laying in my bed with it I didn't like the feel of the fabric. That's one thing that I'm going to put more money into. As for the pad though it's awesome. Took my sickly lungs about 20 breaths to blow up but it works well. It definitely doesn't need to be pumped up as tight as an air bed. Good quality item there that o would buy again.

I'm relatively new to camping myself, but I picked up the 20 degree version of that bag (I got it while it was on sale for around $70 I think) and I can say I am very happy with it. Pretty light and compact given the price. I'm very comfortable in it, and I slept in it while it was 20 degrees outside and I wasn't cold at all (although I am a cold sleeper.)

I am old and fat, I like a lot of squish, and most of the time we are camping in the desert.

We have the old version of the Neo Air. It is good for car camping and backpacking. Coupler kit

We also have an old Dreamtime for car camping that has served us well over the years. It has a built in coupler.

This year we upgraded to Exped MegaMat 10 LXW. It is well worth the money. We camp 2+ months out of the year. And this mat should last 7+ years. So for us it is a good investment.

The guys over in /r/CampingGear would get mad if I didn't mention the Klymit Static V. It is dirt cheep compared to everything I have recommended. And they make a Double V

The best thing you can do is go to a store and try them out.

One more thought, if you are car camping you don't need sleeping bags. A set of flannel sheets and a cheep comforter will keep you just as warm.

My wife and I sleep on this Coleman double size cot.
https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Airbed-Folding-Tables-Battery/dp/B00AU6AVLW/

It comes with an air mattress but i've yet to take it out of the box because it's useless. The listing says it's a queen and it may be if using the air mattress but the cot itself is a dbl. We put an old 4 inch memory foam pad on top with regular flannel sheets and down comforter.

The cot has a carrying case and folds down to about 3'x 8"x 8". I found it for sub $100 open box/return.

It's just about as comfortable as our bed at home and we sleep great at burns. There is a metal spine right down the middle so you can't really sleep comfortably there. Also sex tested and approved!

Is there a cheaper sleeping bag you would recommend? I just have a cheap random one i've had around for ages, idk if it's worth getting a new one or not. Only problem with this one is it seems really hard to roll up in a small roll.

E: i'm looking at this or this or this or this right now, but 20 degree seems too much, it'll probably be way too warm. Kind of hard to find one that i'll actually fit in length wise haha

It's bulky (even with the compression bag) but good enough as a standard sleeping bag, the coldest weather I used it was a little below freezing in a tent and it did fine, the link you gave claims down to -50*F, I find that hard to believe, but I'm sure someone else can chime in on the colder temps. If it were me, I'd go with something else.


Also, while of the subject of military gear, I would like to say that a poncho liner + poncho is a match made in heaven.

I'm not a fan of Coleman, but I spent a month in Africa with this Coleman North Rim 0 Degree Mummy (not a referral link), with night temps down near freezing, and it worked out great. $64 + 15% Off = $54 and free shipping. Allegedly only 3.5lbs, too. I liked this bag for sleeping on a stretcher as it was nice and wide and long enough to fit tall people, but I was able to use some of that extra space to roll up the top into a pillow. The construction also kept the wind off me.

Some of the reviews mention quality control problems with the zipper getting stuck, but I didn't have that issue, so perhaps they've since resolved it or it's isolated to production at a specific factory.

the model you linked is not only super heavy, but I doubt would get you near comfortable. you will also need to pair either bag with matching r value ground insulation. for instance a pad like this
https://www.amazon.ca/KLYMIT-Insulated-Static-Camping-Orange/dp/B00ANRW7DI/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1494229667&sr=1-1&keywords=klymit+insulated+static+v THis is a huge mistake many people make. The ground insulation is paramount.

The model below is a better option.

https://www.amazon.ca/Sports-TrailHead-Ultralight-Sleeping-Orange/dp/B007JTLKCC/ref=sr_1_1?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1494229515&sr=1-1&keywords=teton+sleeping+bag

It's also better to NOT compress your bag. Line your pack with a trash compactor bag, push the sleeping bag into the bottom of your pack. Not in a stuff sack.

https://youtu.be/J1UZvwPnA_o

A warm coat in LA? It would be useful for like 1 fluke night each year. The city isn't known for having soft comfortable streets any time of the year ^_^

A basic compact non-insulated inflatable pad is easy to find for under $50 and you can get them for even less if you can wait a few weeks for chinese shipping. Size wise they are under 1 liter.

The Klymit Static one has been great for me, I've had it for a few years, and its fantastic. Doesn't matter if I'm on my side, back, or stomach. Hope this helps, and happy camping!

https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Static-Inflatable-Sleeping-x2-5/dp/B00LGAQ7NW/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1487012743&sr=8-12&keywords=ground+pad+for+camping

As everyone else has said, ditch the sleeping bag.

Unlike everyone else, I offer a solution.

The poncho liner aka "the woobie" is the greatest creation on earth. I got one of these while I was in the military and have dragged it around the entire earth with me. Soft, perfectly warm, lightweight and highly packable. I don't know how this secret hasn't escaped the military. I will send you a link, you won't regret it!

https://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Military-Weather-Poncho-Blanket/dp/B001L0VX2W

This one has treated me extremely well, being that I'm an ultra light fan, that it's comfortable enough, pretty sturdy, packs tiny, and the price is great: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007RFG0NM/ref=abs_brd_tag_dp?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

You're so thoughtful for putting all this together for her! The quality of your sleep has the biggest impact on the quality of your experience, IMHO, and a good air mattress makes all the difference. I use this model, which rolls up small, is lightweight, and is surprisingly cushy for how compact it is. I highly recommend it! Also, if she doesn't have them yet, you could get her some legit disposable earplugs and a comfortable sleep mask. A tent fan would be bomb, too, but I haven't found one that's worthwhile yet.

Beyond sleeping accoutrements, depending on her style, you could get her body glitter, body paint, metallic tattoos, body/face gems, funky sunglasses, a bubble necklace, a pipe bracelet, spoon jewelry, iridescent wings, light toys, a hooded leotard, flowy pants, etc. Big emphasis on the depending on her style part. There are as many different looks as there are people in the forest. Happy gifting!

Current temps have been around high 20s-32ish at night. as someone that loves sleeping bags my first recommendation is to get two wool blankets. I currently use 1 fleece blanket, 1 wool blanket, 1 shitty lightweight comforter, and I am so damn warm!!
I am going to get one more wool to replace the comforter.
But this is a sleeping bag I love and takes care of all of those just about https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-North-Adult-Mummy-Sleeping/dp/B0009PUSO4/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1481924759&sr=8-2&keywords=coleman+zero+degree

IDK What sort of weather you'll be camping/hiking in, but this is a pretty basic list of gear that I would take if I were on a budget:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006JYHI24/?tag=ultrastuff-20

http://www.amazon.com/Suisse-Sport-Adventurer-Ultra-Compactable-Sleeping/dp/B001TR7QZA/ref=sr_1_3?m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1408072994&sr=1-3&keywords=ultralight

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FB7XYXM/?tag=ultrastuff-20

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002COCF3M/?tag=ultrastuff-20

That's a bag, tarp, hammock and sleeping bag. They all have great ratings and should get you through just about anything.

Me, personally, I carry my hammock, a wool blanket and my tarp from http://www.bushcraftoutfitters.com/ ( http://www.bushcraftoutfitters.com/Coyote-Tarp-10x10-tarp-10x10-coyote.htm ) in my army surplus bag. I also carry my stainless steel pot and cup, cordage, zip ties, leather gloves, folding saw, axe and knife with me when I'm out in the woods. I have a "space blanket" too.

My pack could be lighter for sure, but everything I have serves a purpose.

Whenever you decided you want to get into campinp/hiking/bushcraft/whatever, decided what you really need/want to have with you. Don't just jam random "camping" supplies in your bag. Take your time, research and pack carefully. Your back will thank you.

Basically, where do I start? I hadn't camped since I was a little kid in Girl Scouts. And I hated it then. But, I also lived in Florida, and we were camping in the summer - so everything was wet, and there were mosquitos and bugs EVERYWHERE. I'm in my 30's now and live in Seattle, so a much different climate. Last September we spent a week driving around Utah car camping and I loved it.

I want to do some weekend trips out to the North Cascades, Rainier, and hopefully we'll get a permit for the Enchantments (I'm not holding my breath on that one though). We've only ever done day hiking, and I know our backpacks won't work for overnights. And I don't want to be overloaded with heavy gear, even if it's cheaper, so I'm really looking into ultralight stuff. But what the hell should I get? There are so many options it's mind numbing. We'd be camping in the summer/early fall, just two of us. We've got about $500 to spend as an initial investment, which won't get us really far, but some of the essentials would obviously be beneficial.

Any recommendations? Brands to stay away from? So far I've been looking at these options:

Tent 1

Tent 2

Tent 3

Backpack for me

Backpack for him

Sleeping Bag 1

Sleeping Bag 2

Any tips/help would be super appreciated. I don't expect trips to be longer than 2 days at a time, unless we score a permit for the Enchantments, and that I would want to do 3-4 days.

I just got this! OutdoorsmanLab Ultralight Sleeping... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LZWW2FD?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Not sure if it’ll be to thin for you but it has been working great for me so far. Inflates quickly, gets tight, firm, but forgiving. Slept very well.

This one works pretty well for me. It's about the size of a soccer ball and weighs about 3 pounds. Not the lightest thing in the world, but packs down pretty small and is good down to about 30 degrees.

Suisse Sport Adult Adventurer Mummy Ultra-Compactable Sleeping Bag (Right Zipper) Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001TR7QZA/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_SsFoxbXWBBBH9

I suppose I should follow up on this and mention sleeping pads. I recommend staying away from the huge ones that require an electric pump. The pump always breaks. It's a rule of the universe that some poor bastard has to spend what feels like three hours inflating the mattress manually. Usually right after you've inhaled some smoke and your lungs are already compromised.

I use the Klymit Static V
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B007RFG0NM

It's been pretty great so far. I'm at the bare edge of being too tall for it at 6', but having my feet hang over isn't the end of the world. Packs away small, doesn't take too long to inflate manually, and is even okay for side sleepers. Some sleep pads can't handle the smaller footprint of side sleepers and they don't provide any support. I can also recommend the Snugpak jungle blanket. Packs away small and is decently warm. A good thing to have just in case. Nights in a tent can get colder than you'd think.

Thanks for the advice! What do you think about the following setup:
ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Series Self-Inflating Air Pad and
Therm-A-Rest Tech Blanket
I think the inflatable pad is a good idea for both in (and out) of hammock use. The blanket looks to be a pretty good size and won't lie underneath me (destroying the insulating ability).
It even has a snap system to prevent the pad from shifting (I would diy this part). Should I place the pad between the 2 layers on the BB of just lie directly on top of it?

Planning on camping for 1-2 nights next weekend. In this photo is only my sleeping bag and a first aid kit in my new 46L. Sharing a tent with my bf, and will definitely need to bring a jacket and warm clothes but am possibly planning on putting my jacket in the outer pocket of the pack? I will strap my pad to the bottom.

I'd like to keep this size pack since it's carry-on size for when I travel too. Since I can't really afford another expensive bag at the moment I was considering two day shipping this guy:
https://www.amazon.com/Suisse-Sport-Adventurer-Ultra-Compactable-Sleeping/dp/B001TR7QZA/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1427071182&sr=1-1&keywords=sleeping+bags+backpacking


Thoughts? Should I just suck it up and get a bigger pack or a smaller bag? My bf has a bigger pack I usually borrow so it's not really an emergency, but it would be nice to use my nice new one!


PS- I don't have any of the other items I'd be packing with me at the moment (at my parents house) which is why I ask instead of just trying!

I recommend [this sleeping pad] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007RFG0NM/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

It's pretty light, packs down to smaller than a Nalgene, and is super comfy. All that and it's pretty cheap for what it is!

If you're going cold-weather camping make sure you get a bag rated for low temperatures, like this. Otherwise, you can get one like this. If you want to spend some more money and are going to start camping more often, I'd suggest a mummy bag like this.

Also, rookie campers also tend to forget a sleeping mat, like this. You put this underneath your sleeping bag so that while you sleep, you aren't laying on the hard ground. It's not strictly necessary, but it'll make sleeping a lot easier, and they usually help conserve your warmth if you're camping in cold weather. You can take any normal pillow you have, but it should probably be one that you're not afraid of getting dirty.

Yup, I've been looking at those myself. I have a couple of spare faucets so am going to pick up a couple of these and assemble the taps.

I'm interested in any reports on how the neoprene sleeve works to keep it cold. It's not too pricy, but I was considering just picking up some cheapo camping pads and DIY-ing it, maybe buying the ice blanket for additional cooling. Feel like the camping pad may offer more insulating power, but would probably need a nylon cover for durability. If the neoprene works OK, it's probably worth a little extra dough.

I'm really on the fence about the mini CO2 charger though. Way more convenient than a big tank, but I read that it takes 4-5 16g cartidges to serve a 5 gallon keg? That's about $5/keg if you buy in bulk from amazon, plus the expense of the charger.

I can't sleep without a sleeping pad and there have been many many times where I was happy to have one. I have the Klymit V. It's not super expensive, it rolls up to about the size of a nalgine and is SUPER comfortable, as well as insulated.

I just bought this sleeping bag. I LOVE it! When I first got it I thought it was really thin and thought how on earth will it keep me warm? But it's done a wonderful job! Read the reviews on amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/Suisse-Sport-Adventurer-Ultra-Compactable-Sleeping/dp/B007Z0H61O

This is going to sound like overkill but on a recent car camping trip I used a coleman cot with my klymit insulated static v and I slept better than on some beds. I am in my late 30s and a side sleeper and the klymit pad is great even without the cot.

I was looking for something lighter than I already had recently, mostly at REI, but then I saw several mentions of this Suisse Sport Adventurer Mummy Ultra-Compactable Sleeping Bag as a reasonably good, low-cost, not too heavy option for when it's not too cold. Comes with the left & right zippers so you can zip them together like /u/take_a_hike_pal mentioned, too. I have a pair now, just took one out for the first time this week, seems fine. More complaints in the reviews about the zippers than anything else, but I had no problem there yet. Seems like it might be a good fit for your needs, too. Just under three pounds/about 1.3 kg, whichever way you swing.

I got this ALPS Mountaineering sleeping pad from amazon. Its self-inflating and very reasonably comfortable. A 12v fan is also nearly essential for muggy summer nights. Lastly, these window socks are awesome in that they let you keep your windows down without bugs getting in.

I have the Klymit Static V2 and for $40 when I picked it up it was a huge upgrade from just sleeping on the ground but sometimes I find myself rolling off the sides. With that said if your looking for comfort they sell a Lux version of this that is larger and thicker and is pretty well reviewed.

> But you definitely want something in between you and the ground.

Bear Grylls did a show once ("Get Out Alive" I believe) where he said "A layer on the bottom is worth two on top." Cannot stress enough how important it is to insulate from the ground.

I once went "camping" at a music festival. Days were plenty hot, nights weren't that cold, first night I slept outside, on the ground, no insulation at all. Woke up darn cold. Second night, slept outside on a foam pad not unlike this, no top insulation. Woke up feeling warm as could be.

Of course. So in general, if you anticipate that it will get down to 13 degrees at night, I would recommend a bag rated to at least 0 degrees. Temperature ratings are really survival ratings (in my experience). I have never been warm in a bag rated to the temperature it actually was outside.

Something like this is a good, affordable option.
https://www.amazon.com/Sports-TrailHead-Ultralight-Sleeping-Orange/dp/B007JTLKCC/ref=sr_1_28?s=sports&ie=UTF8&qid=1424727665&sr=1-28

Some great American brands

• Mountain Hardwear ($$$)
  
  
• Marmot ($$$)
  
  
• REI ($$
  
  
• Sierra Designs ($)
  
  
• Teton Sports ($)
  
  
  Some European brands that I know are good
  
  
• Quechua
  
  
• Mammut
  
  
• Montaine

I have the Klymit Insulated Static V Recon and have been happy with it. I've used it down to about 0c (32f ?).

It's a little less expensive if you don't mind the blaze orange. But overall fairly competitive compared to brands like ThermaRest.
https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Insulated-Static-Sleeping-Orange/dp/B00ANRW7DI

Check out this comparison of sleeping pads with R values and other stats, it might help you find the right combo for your needs if the Klymit doesn't interest you.
http://sectionhiker.com/sleeping-pad-r-values/

The standard blue ccf pads you can get for like 10 bucks weighs less than the nicer ones. If all you want is a little r value, and the least weight. I use this in the summer alone, and under an xlite in winter:

https://www.amazon.com/Stansport-503-B-Pack-Lite-72X19X3-8-Inch/dp/B00069PFKK/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=stansport%2Bsleeping%2Bpad&qid=1572281373&sr=8-4&th=1&psc=1

I have the full length and its about 9 oz, so the 3/4 length would be like 6.75. and you could probably get closer to 6 if you replaced the straps with something lighter. I chose this because section hiker had it listed as 1.4 R I think, and that makes for a winter R value (ie snow) with the xlite if your a warm sleeper.

Hammocks are great. Most people seem to choose them over ground simply for comfort. While it's definitely possible to get an UL hammock sleep system, they're less versatile especially considering areas without tree cover (deserts, hiking above the tree line, etc.) I recommend checking out /r/hammockcamping or hammockforums.net if you're interested in learning more.

Personally, I use a HG Cuben Fiber tarp, Dutch 11ft netless (w/ridgeline and whoopie slings) with a DIY half bugnet (HUG net), 30* HG Underquilt (just the 40 with 2 ounces more down), and the [Aegismax green](http://www.amazon.com/AEGISMAX-Outdoor-Urltra-Light-sleeping-Urltra-compactable/dp/B00XE2SKG2?ie=UTF8&Version=1&entries*=0) sleeping bag. I love this setup, and all together, it weighs 3.32lbs. Can I go lighter? Sure, but it's all a matter of preference.

You're not going to get a good, quality ultralight bag for $100 imo. I'd give them an REI gift card to put toward a good bag rather than spending $100 on something subpar.
That said, I got a $45 quilt on ebay that wasn't bad... homemade by someone.
Most $100 bags are in the 3lb range. At that weight... I liked this bag for mild temps - https://www.amazon.com/Sports-TrailHead-Ultralight-Sleeping-Backpacking/dp/B007JTLKCC/ref=sr_1_4?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1481506453&sr=1-4&keywords=teton+sleeping+bag

I started working on a kit and figure it would be good to brainstorm about it a bit. While it probably doesn't deserve it's own thread, I'd like some input about it if possible since I still have time to change things around before I order anything.

I plan on going hiking/camping anywhere from 1-3 days and potentially even more if possible.
The pack I'm currently looking into is the 5.11 Rush 72 which should fit the bill. It has a pouch for my hydration bladder (which is a must have since I live in an arid region and running water can be rare depending on where you are located) as well as the molle for additional customization if needed.

When I'm out camping I like to have the ability to fry food as well as grill it. I have a makeshift grill that I constructed out of four tent pegs and a grate so I have that covered. In regards to frying I found a cook set that seems like it would be useful for my needs. I doubt that I would bring the entire set with me (besides the frying pan and maybe the pot if I have dried meals) which should cut down on weight a little.

For my sleep system I'm looking at a Aqua Quest 10x7 ultralight tarp, paracord (for hanging the tarp plus other uses if needed), and an OutdoorsmanLab Ultralight Sleeping Pad. I'm not entirely sure that I need a tarp since it rarely rains here but I can see it having potential against sun/wind. Both the sleeping pad and tarp fold up to about the size of a bottle which will allow me to store more gear if needed. I already have a sleeping bag insert and mummy bag if need be but I don't see myself using them for 3/4ths of the year.

Lastly, I'm looking at getting a Mora Companion for bushcraft related activities.

In total all the gear weighs about five pounds which seems reasonable enough. Let me know what you guys think.

Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:

Amazon Smile Link: this zero degree queen sized mummy bag


|Country|Link|Charity Links|
|:-----------|:------------|:------------|
|USA|smile.amazon.com|EFF|
|UK|www.amazon.co.uk|Macmillan|
|Japan|www.amazon.co.jp||
|Canada|www.amazon.ca||




To help add charity links, please have a look at this thread.

This bot is currently in testing so let me know what you think by voting (or commenting). The thread for feature requests can be found here.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CFSNBK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I use this for underquilt, because it's flat rectangle when rolled out which makes it easier to go under/half-around a hammock.

That would be a good example of the type of sleeping bag you want in terms of dimensions and shape (not sure about temperature rating). You could get two of these and use as under and overquit, or that as underquilt and jungle blanket as overquilt (jungle seems to have less insulation). Like I said, you could try alternating them to see what works.

If you use it as an underquilt (same goes for jungle blanket), make sure you have it kind of snug (not too snug) hugging the hammock - leave some room between it and the sleeping bag but not too much room. You can bunch up extra loose parts and just tie it up with cordage to bunch it all up and snug. And then you should be able to use the jungle blanket as top quilt, if we're talking 60 degrees. Make sure you take all the setup out for a test drive before you go for the long haul you're doing.

Like I mentioned, those two kinds of bags should be fine for 60s F.

I myself am switching out from that set up so I can use an actual underquilt made to be an underquilt (so it's sown accordingly and the cords are at the right place, all just to take less time to setup), and then use a jungle blanket. But I camp in a bit chiller to even colder weather.

If you're really worried about less than 50 degrees, what I have now is that sleeping bag as underquilt, and then I have a much thicker mummy bag as overquilt, which makes up for the thin underquilt: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TR7QZA/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's not an ideal under/over combination one might say, but I just happened to have gotten those and didn't feel like returning, plus they worked.

Sorry for the novel.

My personal one here it works great I’ve used it well over year and always sleep great while using it.

FWIW, I am around 250 and 6'1" and I bought a Klymit Static V Insulated for less than $60 new and when I'm on my side my hip and shoulder don't touch the ground. Its R-Value is 4.4 vs 5 for the StoS, so real close. I have nothing bad to say about the Klymit air mattress- its sturdy, lightweight, and packs smaller than a water bottle. I even bought the non-insulated version for summer camping.

I absolutely love Sea to Summit stuff like dry sacs, pack covers, sleeping bag liners, and pillows, but I couldn't imagine spending that much on an air mattress when one half the price is fantastic.

My partner and I have a 0F double wide Teton sleeping bag for our car camping trips and we love it. It's really warm and comfortable. We use it camping out in CA and haven't hit super low temps in it (lowest was probably high 30s or low 50s), but neither of us wear clothes when sleeping and I usually have to keep my side unzipped so I can vent and/or stick a leg out because it's so toasty.

This is the bag we use: TETON Sports Mammoth 0F Double-Wide Sleeping Bag; Double Sleeping Bag Perfect for Base Camp while Cold Weather Camping, Backpacking, and Hiking; Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F38YHI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_uI1cBbH1S9A2Q

The mattress is fantastic. It fits right over the wheel wells; you'd never know they were there. It's got a built-in pump and inflates in just a few minutes (auto-deflates too), and is firm enough that my wife and I don't toss each other all over the place when rolling over in the middle of the night.

I'm less enthusiastic about the sleeping bag. It was around freezing when we were camping, and even though the bag is rated to 0C, it really just didn't do the job as far as I could tell. Part of that was likely that it's a double, so (with my wife in it too) I couldn't wrap myself up in it like I do a normal bag. It was our first outing in it, though, so I'll give it another shot.

If you don't need much warmth, the cheap pads on Amazon ([1] (https://www.amazon.com/Sleepingo-Camping-Sleeping-Pad-Backpacking/dp/B07FP4Z3RZ/), 2) will get the job done. They're light and decently comfortable; very similar in construction to the uninsulated klymit static V, just off brand and a little cheaper. Wouldn't recommend pushing them much below ~45-50 on their own (supplementing with a light ccf is always an option to push them a little further).

If you need a little insulation, the insulated static V is a good budget option. Or if you're comfortable enough on CCF then you've got plenty of cheap options.

Based on your choices, it seems like you're concerned about budget. This is a better sleeping bag for $40 or $50 depending on zipper side (bummer- I bought 2 when they were at $30. Even at $50 it's better than most bags twice as expensive: compresses smallish, weighs in under 3 lbs, and has a better temperature range than what you link.)

Here's a decent actual tent for $100- Eureka Apex 2 weighs under 6 lbs. The Solitaire is under 3 lbs if you want a solo tent.

Only the best camping blanket ever. Super cozy, packs down to nothing.

https://www.amazon.com/Snugpak-92246-Jungle-Blanket-Olive/dp/B00BTHREMK

They also make an XL size if you are not a small person. I fold the normal size one in half and use that as a sleeping bag for my kid and she stays plenty toasty.

I would probably just get a cheap bed roll (camping mat, pad, whatever you call them, here's a random one from Amazon), cut/piece together so it fits/covers the screen, add something to hook it over the TV then just wrap it in a cotton bed sheet or similar. Should be easy to roll up and put away and look pretty inoffensive in use (as long as you don't use ugly bed sheets :-)

I've tried a few and the self inflating ones don't cut it for me, I seem to always feel what's underneath. In my mind it's no better than a thin yoga mat. This is my current fav, a few breathes to inflate and don't really feel anything. Ymmv.

You can get it for under $40 during pretty regular Amazon sales https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LGAQ7NW/

Self Inflatable Air Pad - So much better than sleeping on the tent tarp / yoga mat.

Handheld Water Misting Fan - The most popular item at my tent the past couple of years. Put a few small ice cubes and water for a refreshing cool down.

Ive been happy with this sleeping bag : http://www.amazon.com/Suisse-Sport-Adventurer-Ultra-Compactable-Sleeping/dp/B007Z0H5CY/ref=sr_sp-atf_title_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1404775663&sr=8-2&keywords=compact+sleeping+bag

Works into the 40s real well, not the best quality but I've been happy, packs up to a bit smaller than a basketball

For a tent I've got one of these: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Eureka-Woodland-1-Man-Tent-New-ICS-2000/261504691244?_trksid=p2047675.c100010.m2109&_trkparms=aid%3D555012%26algo%3DPW.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20131231084308%26meid%3D8156739769262393341%26pid%3D100010%26prg%3D20131231084308%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D24%26sd%3D271541989197

And then the llbean pathfinder sleeping pad.

Alternatively, if I'm camping where theres trees, then I'll bring a hammock, bugnet, and tarp.

I got this one. I've not used it save for messing around on the living room floor, but feels pretty comfy. Someone even rated it better than the thermarest in the reviews.

This is what I bought
Edit : it’s super compact! It’s a bit bigger than a water bottle !

OutdoorsmanLab Ultralight Sleeping Pad - Ultra-Compact for Backpacking, Camping, Travel w/Super Comfortable Air-Support Cells Design (Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LZWW2FD?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Durability and insulation - R-value. A pad with little or no insulation is going to sap the life right out of you. If you're usually out in hot weather, then it doesn't really matter. You for the most part get what you pay for, but if what you have is floating yer boat then it's all good.

I like my Klymit Static V insulated. Packs small, reasonably lite, and keeps me warm.

Aegismax on Amazon has an awesome UL sleeping bag. $75.00 and only weighs 0.97lbs! I've seen people use them like quilts too, only zip up the bottom footbox and lay over yourself.

https://www.amazon.com/AEGISMAX-Urltra-Light-Sleeping-Three-Season-L200cmW86cm/dp/B00XE2SKG2

We got a Teton double and will use it for the first time tomorrow. What I like about this double is it has side zippers, so if we need to pee it's easier to get out without disturbing the other. We'll see how much we like it over the weekend

thank you for the review. would this be a better option compared to what I have now. Teton 20f

https://www.amazon.ca/Sports-TrailHead-Ultralight-Lightweight-Backpacking/dp/B007JTLKCC/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1524791946&sr=8-7&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&dpPl=1&dpID=31a1LagTSpL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

looking to get a budget quilt that packs down small but want to ensure it is warmer then the Teton.

You should definitely have a sleeping pad to keep you off the ground, preferably with an aluminized coating that will reflect body heat back up towards you like this one. Or you can use a mylar emergency blanket between your pad and your bag

Hand warmers are very handy and have many uses as well. Toss one in the foot of your sleeping bag before you turn in. It won't last all night but even once it's used up it helps absorb moisture in your bag.

TETON Sports TrailHead 20F Ultralight Sleeping Bag Perfect for Backpacking, Hiking, and Camping, Orange/Grey https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007JTLKCC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_4BdZxb6K66X1V

I love this sleeping bag. If I didn't get a good deal on a kelty cosmic 20, I would still be using it.

Bought this bad boy for my RTT. It’s HUGE!! Biggest bag I’ve ever seen.

TETON Sports Mammoth 0F Queen Size Sleeping Bag; Double Sleeping Bag Perfect for Base Camp while Cold Weather Camping, Backpacking, and Hiking; Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000F38YHI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_lVdYzb13VDS96

It's called a tent. Get a good set of mattresses like this klymit and you're good to go.

I am looking at some budget pads like the Trail Scout or the Klymit V Lightweight. Sounds like the consensus so far is manual. Might wait until I can afford a better manual one.

Coleman North Rim Adult Mummy Sleeping Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009PUSO4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_McHIzb0NRN3EG

I own this bag and absolutely love it for chilly car camping. I sleep in it in my boxers in the 20s! 3 years and many camping trips later and it still looks like new.

If you have room in your car and room in your tent I highly recommend picking this up!

Coleman Airbed Cot - Queen https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AU6AVLW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_S4hqzbGC9CTPA

Tried at Scamp last month and it helped me get some of the best camping sleep ever.

Woof, not a lot of good options on Amazon, it seems this [Windhard] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06ZZ5B4GD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_sd0DzbVT6XEE1) might be the best option. Could you sell the gift on Raise or something of the sort and buy an HG or EE?

For backpacking I've got an REI Magma 10, but that is a little more than you want to spend.

For car camping I've got a Coleman North Rim, hard to beat the price. Supposedly a 0F bag, I've had mine down to 20F and it was plenty warm. I've got two of these bags, the first one is still going strong and the second one the seams are falling apart on, so the quality might not be that great on them but for less than $40 I'd still recommend it.

This is the best sleeping pad I've ever come across: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007RFG0NM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

Feels like I'm sleeping on air.

It was well worth the extra 16 ounces. You can probably get them much lighter if you wanted to spend the $$$ but for the cost, I was happy with this one:

Klymit Static V2 3 Season Backpacking and Camping Sleeping Pad - Includes Stuff Sack, Patch Kit

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LGAQ7NW

I'm also a side sleeper. This last Xmas trip I used this three-layer combo: air pad (Klymit Static V) on top of a thick closed-cell foam pad (something better than the thin blue pads) on top of a doubled-up sheet of Reflectix.

I slept like a (big, hairy, snoring) baby. The cost was less than $80.

I also have the Klymit Static V and can't recommend it enough. It's light and packable, has a 4.4 r-value, inflates in <15 breaths, and is genuinely comfortable.

You can also get great deals on them if you look. I think I paid $40 for mine, which ain't too shabby.

I used this one for about a year and I liked it quite a bit. It brought me down to the 40s comfortably without a sleeping bag liner. It compresses really small but it's a bit on the heavy bag.

For $40 though, it's seriously an amazing bag.

Truth. I've backpacked for years with a $100 Kelty tent - heavy rains and wind no problem - and a $100 Marmot bag. Somewhere around 2005 it suddenly became easy to get good, cheap outdoor gear. It's not ultralight, but it's close enough.

The pad is a different story. Until recently you had to spend big to get something comfortable and reliable. Now that Thermarest has competition, prices have been halved. Our Klymits have lasted many nights outside with no problems, and I see great reviews for similar pads at half the price.

I got this one. It is definitely not rated down to 30, but it gets the job done for sleeping in 40s and 50s. It doesn't get terribly small, but I got it because we got both versions and they zip together with my girlfriend. I plan to upgrade soon, but it was a good starter bag to get me out 5 times last summer.

If you're looking to save some money, you'd be hard pressed to find a bag cheaper than the Aegismax https://www.amazon.com/AEGISMAX-Outdoor-Urltra-Light-sleeping-Urltra-compactable/dp/B00XE2SKG2

You should be able to find a few reviews through google or on this subreddit, but everything is mostly positive.

i wouldnt bother with tent stakes. she will find plenty of those at festivals. Ive never had to use a first aid kit, either... get her something she mightn't have thought of, that she will constantly have to use.
https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Static-Lightweight-Sleeping-Green/dp/B007RFG0NM?ref_=bl_dp_s_mw_6764188011
these are amazing.
Maybe a hydroflask and/or camelbak if she doesnt already have those things.
flashlight/headlamp.

Tarp:

Option 1: https://www.amazon.com/Sanctuary-SilTarp-Ultralight-Waterproof-Backpacking/dp/B06XJ7322N/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1538600945&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=ul%2Btarp&th=1&psc=1

Option 2 (more durable): https://www.amazon.com/DD-Tarp-3m-Olive-Green/dp/B005FPN7GE/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1538601289&sr=1-3&keywords=dd+tarp

Bug net: https://www.amazon.com/Breeze-Mesh-Tent-Ultralight-Backpacking/dp/B01NA9BU4Q/ref=pd_bxgy_468_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01NA9BU4Q&pd_rd_r=a541965e-c750-11e8-83ba-35492fd40af5&pd_rd_w=5VWOY&pd_rd_wg=3uCes&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3f9889ac-6c45-46e8-b515-3af650557207&pf_rd_r=X7JJ3Y8J81XVAAR36D9Y&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=X7JJ3Y8J81XVAAR36D9Y

Quilt: http://www.hammockgear.com/burrow-econ-40/ (get a warmer one if you need it)

Sleeping pad: https://www.amazon.com/Therm-Rest-Original-Ultralight-Camping/dp/B00453NA1E/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1538601159&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=thermarest+zlite+sol&psc=1

You will need trekking poles for the tarp/tent or save a few bucks and find a couple of sticks when you get there!

Trekking poles: https://www.amazon.com/BAFX-Products-Hiking-Walking-Trekking/dp/B007YT854S/ref=sr_1_3_acs_ac_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1538601222&sr=1-3-acs&keywords=trekking+poles

​

Pack: https://www.massdrop.com/buy/massdrop-x-granite-gear-crown-x60

Thanks, I've looked at a few cots, including stuff like this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AU6AVLW

I have looked at canned food, especially soups etc, but as you said, it gets bulky. But at least with the boat I can store a good amount of of supplies on-board.

Will this foam sleeping pad insulate me during these cold winter month? I have a sleeping bag I'm happy with. I don't want to put the money in for a downquilt considering all the maintenance associated with them. I live in Georgia so nights usually don't get colder than 30F, but it would be nice to have something that allows me to go hiking up north sometime.

Model 3 does not have native camper mode as of 2018.42.2 which is what I currently have installed. Also, I went camping when I still had version 8.

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The HVAC if turned on via phone or API at that time would only run for 30 mins before shutting off. The overheat protection wasn't implemented yet. So I had TeslaFi send a wake up HVAC command every 30 minutes throughout the night which kept it on all night.

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I am about 6ft tall and found it comfortable space wise. Temp/humidity wise it was perfect with the HVAC enabled.

I used one of these in the back seat foot well to sort of extend the surface as I like to sleep on my side with one arm extended out beyond my head:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074SV35KL/

I used this as a sleeping pad. It was very comfortable, but it did slide around due to being kind of slippery. One night I woke up with the lower half of my body off the pad.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007RFG0NM

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One thing that sucked for me is that with v8 I couldn't control the entertainment system with the app from the back of the car. But now you can! :)

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Referral code for TeslaFi is "ZJ" without the quotes.

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I bought this bag from Amazon 2 years ago and LOVE it. It's a 30 degree bag, weighs 2lb, is EXTREMELY compressible, and is only $40! I couldn't recommend it more.

Link: http://www.amazon.com/Suisse-Sport-Adventurer-Ultra-Compactable-Sleeping/dp/B007Z0H61O

i think for a tent your looking for a teepee style tent for your headroom. also i would suggest something more along the lines of a sleep cot rather than an air matress to have a more rigid sitting position. or you can get something like this for the best of both worlds

>I have 50ft of paracord, which was actually the smallest amount that company sold it in. I suppose I could cut it down.

50 ft is probably fine. It looked like a lot more from the picture for some reason.

>Won't sleeping mats add a lot more weight?

Not really.

• Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Ultralight Foam Backpacking Mattress Folds up, but still bulky. Only 14 oz.
  
• Klymit Static V Lightweight Sleeping Pad Compresses and folds up quiet a bit. It is 18.6 oz though. This is what I sleep on when I go backpacking and find it very comfortable.

Wanted to chime in and say, I'd love to see your plans, too, if you care to share with the rest of us! I thought picking up a grand trunk for $17 the other day was good (Amazon sale -- now $20), but you're putting me to shame! Paired with this compact and quite warm sleeping bag, you're off to the races.

Since weight isn't your biggest concern, I have a Klymit insulated static V and while not the lightest it's very reasonably priced compared to an Xtherm and comfortable at 2.5" thick. Currently going for $52 on Amazon, R value 4.4 and 25 oz, or the 'lite' version which is 19 oz and going for $75

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ANRW7DI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kcBwyb9FMZQG5

Mirage is a freestanding, isn't it? That's one thing I missed about the Banshee (and Naturehike I linked isn't freestanding either).

I would say tent should be the last thing you upgrade (unless you intend on backpacking), and you're right - start with the pad. Some of the modern ones are insanely comfortable, I'm a picky sleeper and I love S2S one. I also toured for couple weeks with the Thermarest XTherm and it was not bad, but also not nearly as comfortable as S2S.

If you're on a budget consider Klymit pads - here's one that weight 700g, packs very small, and has R value of 4.4 (meaning you can sleep on the snow and it will still insulate you enough). It costs around 50USD

https://www.amazon.ca/KLYMIT-Insulated-Static-Camping-Orange/dp/B00ANRW7DI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1497921003&sr=8-2&keywords=klymit+sleeping+pad

Thanks for all the advice!
We have ccf pads, and was planning on doubling up with the inflated pads for ground insulation in true winter camping.
I honestly never thought about using an over quilt, but it makes a ton of sense. I was planning on picking up this synthetic blanket anyway for my son to take to summer camp (https://www.amazon.com/Snugpak-92246-Jungle-Blanket-Olive/dp/B00BTHREMK/ref=rtpb_1/131-2497237-7507706?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00BTHREMK&pd_rd_r=b1848a02-e8c4-4f44-9d44-b38a2585aef7&pd_rd_w=QOXcP&pd_rd_wg=VvbdC&pf_rd_p=3107d6c5-a193-40a9-93c1-9548683c7623&pf_rd_r=T0G53SHPYYS7MSDB0YBW&psc=1&refRID=T0G53SHPYYS7MSDB0YBW&th=1), so I’ll have to see how it performs above the down top quilt on a cold car camping trip.

I have one of these and it's awesome! Plenty of space to stash stuff underneath too. It is pretty big/heavy but it's worth it.

I just bought and received from amazon the following: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AU6AVLW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Perks: getting off the floor will help with heat trapping, underneath can be used as storage, comfortable mattress that comes with it.

Cons: it is kinda heavy, but it collapses down to a decent size. Think of the collapsed size of an EZ Up tent.

I haven't set it up yet, however. I am planning on doing that tonight to make sure everything is kosher.

A Coleman fleece sleeping bag (basically a thicker liner) from Target/Walmart will give you a little more padding, and significantly more warmth than a sleeping bag liner, but isn't really much better than just sleeping in a jacket. If padding is what you're after, get a Klymit inflatable sleeping pad (there are a bunch of variations like this), which will also serve well outdoors (get the insulated version if you're serious though, at the cost of extra weight). Are you crashing on the floor or a couch? Carpet or wood? For two nights do you need to take something potentially bulky?

Here are some links:
air mattress vs cot
sleeping pads

But honestly, it seems like what you want is a cot. My boyfriend and I use this Coleman queen air bed cot and it’s lovely!

There are lots of other options if you wanna completely ditch the air mattress and go the cot route entirely (the one I have is a cot/air mattress combo), and it’s cheaper that way too.

Google “two person cot” for some options, or head to an outdoor goods/camping store. Sometimes they have cots out that you can lay on & test out (although they’ll probably be single-person cots, but then you can figure out a brand that’s comfy or just decide to get two single-person cots).

Were you sleeping on a pad? That makes a world of difference between staying warm or freezing at night. Most inflatable air mattresses suck heat away from you, so a closed cell foam mat would help. Also, what you wear in the bag helps. I usually sleep in long sleeve merino base layers, wool socks and even a hat.

I have this big, heavy Coleman North Rim bag for cold weather car camping duty. Pretty cheap too.

https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-North-Adult-Mummy-Sleeping/dp/B0009PUSO4

I have the Klymit Static V. Better than a foam pad. Packs down small. Within your budget. https://www.amazon.com/Klymit-Static-Lightweight-Sleeping-Green/dp/B007RFG0NM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1499701452&sr=8-3&keywords=klymit+static+v

My "go to" is my Exped SynMat 7. Packs small. Very comfortable. Built in pump. But outside your budget but worth the money IMO. https://www.amazon.com/Exped-SynMat-Sleeping-Terracotta-Long/dp/B0018MC976/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1499701508&sr=8-3&keywords=exped+mat