I picked up a few new items for the camp. I’m hoping to get a couple more outings in before it gets too bitter cold to want to attempt the overnights outdoors. I’ll work on updating the gear/packing lists, and maybe start to pick out and post thoughts on the equipment in the field as I have a chance.

First up, something basically everyone needs. The Silva 360 Lensatic Compass. Heavy-duty, illuminated, and comes highly recommended, all at a very reasonable price. I don’t expect to be lost at the local car camp, but I’ve had a little experience with Orienteering so I’m able to take this on some short explorations if I like.

Second, something of much greater utility, in the field, in the office and at home. A solid multi-tool, the Leatherman Juice CS4. I have one multi-tool which I got free, but I’ll leave that in the jump pack for computer work. This new one will be much better suited to outdoor tasks and being used every day–it’s a lot smaller, and weighs a lot less, meaning I’m more likely to have it with me.

Lastly, I’m really happy to be getting an Ontario RAT-5. This knife is the fruit of a joint effort between Randall’s Adventure and Training (RAT Cutlery) and Ontario. It’s made out of extremely tough D2 steel, and the construction and finish are superb. I have a great Cold Steel Kobun tanto knife, but by design it’s more of a lethal device, whereas the RAT-5 is purpose-built for survival and outdoor utility.

I was just looking over my camping gear in preparation for a possible outing this weekend. I thought back on the spring season, and one camping memory really stood out. I picked up a new tent shortly after the new year, and not being a very knowledgeable authority at the time I read as much as I could and shopped for a 3 season tent that I thought would fit my budget.

I settled on the Eureka! Apex 2XT. It’s small, but plenty large enough to sleep two and fit a small amount of gear to boot. The dual vestibules help keep you dry, and offer some fairly dry shelter for additional gear at one end–if you choose to use only a single entrance (that’s how I do it). The fit and finish are all of very high quality. The setup and tear down are painless and straight forward.

Every time I went camping this past spring, it managed to rain. Every single time. One outing, with temperatures just above freezing, this tent stayed bone dry and hospitable despite a prolonged downpour. But, I’ve saved the best for last. One particular storm blew up Category 1 to low 2 winds (somewhere well above 80 mph gusts, with limited visible damage to nearby buildings while heading back into town). This modestly-priced tent was the only one not to blow over. Not only that, it was still bone dry inside. One of my group even had a tent blow across the lake, so needless to say I was pretty pleased with my results.

I highly recommend this tent for a modest price, comfort, ease of use, and excellent performance in 3 seasons. Now that it’s cooling off, I’m ready to head back into the woods–better believe this little tent is top on my packing list.

Here’s a list of my casual camping items, subject to revision:

• Eureka Apex 2XT Tent
• Thermarest ProLite 4 Fast & Light Mattress (Regular)
• 5′ x 7′ Tarp
• Thermarest stuff Sack
• Wenzel Omega II/Great Falls Mummy 0-Degree Sleeping Bag

~$275

Large Duffle Bag

• Toilet Paper
• Paper Towels
• Garbage Sacks
• Towel
• Cold Steel Kukri Machete
• Gerber Gator Combo Axe II
• Dry Goods
• Canned Goods
• Improvised Pillow
• Cups
• Snow Peak 450 Titanium Mug
• Lighter
• Tongs
• Cabela’s 10″ Cast Iron Skillet

~$120, not including provisions

Medium Duffle Bag/Pack

• Various clothes
• 1 pair Patagonia Hiking Socks
• 1 pair Ex-Officio Travel Underwear
• 1 set light weight Patagonia Capilene base layer
• 1 set mid weight Patagonia Capilene base layer
• 1 pair trunks
• 1 pair sandals
• Freeplay Indigo Lantern with Mini USB Port
• Water/Windproof Matches
• Columbia Thunderstorm Waterproof Jacket
• Coleman F1 Compact Camp Stove
• Camp Stove Fuel Cannister

~$300, not including random clothes

Small Bandolier Bag

• 2 Emergency Radiant Blankets
• Coarse/Fine Blade Sharpener
• Magnesium Fire Starter
• Maya Fire Sticks
• Nylon Paracord
• Mess Kit
• Duct Tape
• Multi-Tool/Pliers
• Cutlery Set
• Cap Light
• Corkscrew
• Herb/Spice shaker
• Snow Peak Titanium Plate
• Snow Peak Titanium Bowl
• Tent Patch Kit
• Forceps
• Compact First Aid Kit

~$170

Miscellaneous

• 6 Gallon Water Jugs
• Folding Chair(s)
• Folding Table
• Cooler
• Perishable Goods
• Firewood
• Ice

~$65, not including perishables or consumables

Worn

• North Face GoreTex Lightweight Hikers
• Cap
• Ex-Officio Travel Underwear
• 1 pair Patagonia Hiking Socks
• Rapellers Canvas Belt
• Cold Steel Kobun Tanto

~$220

Revised 4/30/08! – Added Camp Stove, Backpack Axe, Rainproof Jacket, Cast Iron Skillet. Moved a few items around a bit.

I’ve found a camping addage to be very true. Research your gear, and save for what you want. But the cool thing is that I’ll be able to have a few essential duplicates for camping with a friend.

I gave up on the sketchy camp pillow. Instead I pack a lightweight pillowcase. I stuff that with a compressible dry sack filled with clothes that I have stored inside my pack. Same level of comfort and a quite a bit more efficient.

I also have some gear that’s not really on my short list, like a camp shower. Other items like the machete, just aren’t needed and won’t make most trips. The axe can’t be used on many campgrounds, in which case I may bring the machete more for the utility than any serious chopping.