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You may already know that your adventures in wilderness leave you feeling refreshed, less stressed and happier. It’s also possible they make you smarter.Preliminary results of a new study suggest that prolonged time in nature can boost mental abilities significantly. In an article published in Backpacker magazine, writer Elizabeth Kwak-Hefferan witnesses the phenomenon first hand as she serves as a test subject in neuroscientist Dr. David Strayer's study. Strayer wants to know what happens to the brain after a multiday wilderness hike. Past studies have shown mental benefits do occur after short periods in nature, but no one has looked at the effects of an extended trip into the wild. To get to his answer, Strayer, took a small group of backpackers for a multiday hiking trip in southeast Utah’s Grand Gulch Primitive Area. The hikers, including Kwak-Hefferan, took a cognitive test before heading out on the trail, then again after several days of backpacking. Results showed a 45 percent increase in mental abilities once the hikers had been out on the trail for three days.The theory, according to Backpacker, is that time in wilderness may inspire physiological changes, such as the release of certain hormones, or the use of different brain regions, allowing the overtaxed higher-thinking region of the brain to destress and restore clear thinking abilities. After initial tests in Utah, Strayer did another study on a larger group of Outward Bound hikers. This time, results, showed up to 50 percent increases in creative abilities. Of course, the author notes that some might say the vigorous exercise or unplugging from distracting electronics may have something to do with the results. But Strayer is just at the beginning of his research and hopes to have more answers in the future. Strayer’s studies may help explain why people commonly feel so great after hiking. This “caught up in the moment,” feeling, as described by Kwak-Hefferan, may increase our ability to focus. This is especially important as a kind of cure for the distracted thinking, typical of modern life. Daily routines are often rife with interruptions from numerous technological devices, constant advertisements and over-booked schedules. Nowadays, only by getting outdoors can you reap the rewards of living without constant distraction. The study suggests three days of wilderness exposure will net you the greatest benefits, but making brief but frequent backpacking trips could recharge your mental capacities as well, according to Backpacker. So if you are getting ready for exams or other mental challenges, the best preparation may be to take a break by hitting the trails. Weekend outings could provide the charge needed to perform at your best through the rest of your workweek. The implications of these studies extend well beyond your individual experiences. This research could provide greater support for employer flexibility, outdoor education and of course increased wilderness protection. Until then, you can begin reaping the benefits now by giving your brain the gift of wilderness.   Source: TheWildernessSociety

Many people say that traveling together can make or break a relationship, and the same can be said for camping.Camping is probably the best way to spend time with your loved onesHere are some tips to make you and your partner happy this camping trip. Communication: It's important to discuss what experience you both want out of the trip. If you don’t talk about it beforehand, you could end up being left behind in the tent with nothing but your beef jerky to keep you company. Camp Setup: Have one person take care of the inside of the tent and one person set up the outside. This avoids unnecessary critique of how the other does things.make sure both of you are contributing when setting up camp. The person stuck doing all the work will resent their partner, leaving room for bad feelings later on, so tasks should be divided before you start.Tips’’ Leave the headlamps, bug spray and toiletries right by the door so that you can get to everything you need when the time comes and there's no rummaging around in the dark.’’ Cooking: Just because you are out in the wilderness doesn’t mean that you can’t have a gourmet meal. Plan your meals before you leave and don’t forget all the spices and oils needed. Go through a checklist together and break down meals as well as snacks.Trail mix and fruit are great snack options, pancakes are quick and easy for breakfast and sandwiches are a snap to make for lunch Campfire: Nothing causes more heated discussions when camping (with anyone) than when people try to give advice about how to light a campfire. For the sake of your relationship, it's best to let one person take care of making the fire while the other waits patiently—and quietly—no matter how much they want to give their two cents. Clean Up: Teamwork is needed to make clean up easy so while one of you boils water to use for dishwashing, the other can go and fetch some water in your collapsible water jug for rinsing. Nobody likes cleaning, but we make sure to have a fresh glass of wine or an icy cold beer to sip on while we work. While one person washes, the other dries and within minutes we're free and ready to sit by the fire and reconnect with one another after a long week at work. Important Tip: Employ the rules you have at home for duties such as clean up. Camping is no time to be switching roles.

Going camping as a kid was the best thing ever. It was fun. It was easy. It filled my heart with joy. Going camping with kids can be magical too but it takes planning, patience, and a willingness to roll with whatever happens. Here are a few tips to make your next family camping adventure just a little more successful: 1. Put them to work – When you first get to your campsite, there’s a ton of work to do. It’s easy for kids to get bored while they wait for the tent to go up. But, even tiny kids can help with something, unloading the car, handing you tent pegs, or setting up camp chairs. It gives them something to do and gives them ownership over their own adventure. Chores that are torturous at home suddenly become fun when you’re camping. You know the phrase, “A spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down?” A spoon full of dirt and campfire smoke helps turn everything into a game. 2. Put the screens away – My tent has an electrical outlet flap, a flap through which I can pass cords and cables to power all of my electronic devices. WHAT?! This is camping! With the allure of cell phones, tablets and gaming devices, it’s easy for “just one game” or “one last text message” to turn into a weekend you could have just as easily spent on your couch at home. If you’re in the woods to get away from it all, stay away from it all. Enjoy the wilderness, the family, the friends. Enjoy what’s real. 3. Marshmallows and hot chocolate – Some of the best things about camping are the treats. The memories associated with s’mores and trail mix are emotional. They are sugar-filled. They are magically delicious. Your kids will love planning, shopping for, and helping pack treats that they only get when you’re off the grid. 4. Tell stories – The screens are off. The fire is burning. You have a captive audience. Tell them about when you were little, about how you met their dad, about the greatest vacation of your life. They love these stories and the stories give them a sense of family identity. I recently heard renowned storyteller Donald Davis plead with parents to tell family stories to their kids. He said that kids will grow up whether we help them or not. They will get jobs, find spouses, obtain computers, get educations, whether we help them or not. However, if we don’t tell them our stories, they can never know them. We are the only ones who can tell them their history and the stories that made us who we are. He says there is only one rule to family storytelling – It doesn’t matter if they want to hear it or not. 5. Plastic Storage Containers – Organize the heck out of your camping gear. My favorite organization tip is to arrange all of your gear into kits that you keep at the ready. Keep the kits in plastic storage containers with a checklist of contents on the side. When you want to take a trip, just make sure each one is fully stocked and toss them in the back of the car. For example, the cooking kit contains matches, propane canisters, paper towels, hand sanitizer, sandwich baggies, trash bags, dishes and utensils, dish soap, peeler, knives, cutting board, towels, sponge, and a dish pan. 6. Cook food ahead of time – Whether you’re eating sandwiches, foil dinners, or scrambled eggs with potatoes and ham, prep and cook as much as you can in advance. Cook the meat most of the way and steam the rice or potatoes in your foil dinner. Cook your entire egg breakfast, put it in a Ziploc bag, and reheat it in a pan over your camp stove. Chop all your veggies in advance and slice the cheese for sandwiches. The more you prep ahead, the fewer dishes you’ll have to wash in the wilderness. 7. Let them carry their own hiking stuff – as you go for age-appropriate hikes, let the kids each carry their own backpacks with food, water and other supplies. This lightens your load and makes them feel like real campers. They love having the freedom to grab snacks when they feel like it and you will hear far fewer chants of “Mom. Mom. Mom. Can I have some beef jerky?” 8. Frisbees and balls and card games, oh my! – Stuff the gaps in between your duffles and sleeping bags with games and activities to do outside. Be creative. Late night Uno by the light of a Coleman lamp is an awesome outdoor activity. 9. Let there be light – Every person in the family should have their own flashlight. This seems obvious, but nearly every trip we get to the campground and realize we don’t have appropriate lights for each person, lights with working batteries, lights bright enough to light our way but dim enough that the 4-year-old won’t use hers to burn her siblings’ eyes out of their sockets. 10. Potty time – My best piece of advice for camping with kids is to save the nighttime potty break until the last possible second. I have had trips in which my kids used the restroom no fewer than five times in the night. This was unusual and aggravated by the fact that we were camped about seven inches from a very loudly bubbling stream. And it was uber lame. I’ve had the fewest nighttime biffy runs when I did the entire bedtime routine and then took them in their pajamas to the bathroom, walked them directly back to the tent, and dumped them into their sleeping bags. There is no such thing as a perfect camping trip, but every camping trip can be perfectly memorable and hopefully memorable for all the right reasons.

If you’re reading this, you probably already know the basics: water, food storage, first aid, etc. But even hardcore survivalists can overlook things. In this post I want to mention 50 survival items you might have forgotten to buy. Hopefully it’ll remind you of a few things you still need to get. For everything on this list that you already have, give yourself a pat on the back. 1. Acoustic Instruments – For entertainment and morale. 2. Aluminum Foil – Great for all sorts of things like cooking food, boiling water, enhancing antennas, keeping sunlight out, etc. 3. Axes – How else will you chop firewood? 4. Baby Wipes – Really easy way to keep clean. 5. Baseballs, basketballs, footballs, etc. – Playing ball is a great way to stave off boredom and keep morale up during hard times. 6. Bicycle Gear – If gasoline is in short supply, you might need your bike to get around. That means you’ll need a bike pump, extra tubes, etc. 7. Book lights – It’s difficult to read by candlelight and you don’t want to waste your flashlight’s batteries. Book lights are cheap and last a long time. 8. Books – You might be surprised how much free time you have after the SHTF. Now’s your chance to read those books you always meant to read (like Atlas Shrugged). 9. Bug Spray – There is usually a major lack of proper sanitation after a disaster, especially if there isn’t running water. That means there will be more roaches and other critters. There might also be a lot more mosquitoes. 10. Bullion Cubes – These make boring meals much more delicious. 11. Calendars – You’ll need a way to track the day and date if the power is out for a long time. 12. Candy – Huge morale booster during difficult times. Just don’t overdo it. 13. Cast Iron Cookware – If you’re cooking over a fire, your regular pots and skillets won’t cut it. 14. Cloth Diapers – Other than the obvious usage, these are also great for cleanups because they’re so absorbent. 15. Clothes Lines and Pins – Because your dryer will be a waste of space. 16. Condiments – Imagine eating a typical meal without mustard, ketchup, soy sauce, hot sauce, etc. You’ll get bored fast. 17. Condoms – TEOTWAWKI is not a great time to get pregnant, but people still have needs. Use protection. 18. Cotton Balls – Great for first aid, cleaning, kindling, and many other things. 19. Duct Tape – A must have for any prepper. 20. Ear Plugs – It’s important to use these when hunting with firearms, but they’ll also help you sleep at night. Why? Because after the SHTF every little bump will wake you up. Just make sure someone is standing guard while you sleep. 21. Floss – It’s even more important than your tooth brush. If you’re not flossing now, get started. 22. Games – Board games, cards, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, and any other type of game that doesn’t require power. This is especially important if you have children. 23. Glasses and Repair Kits – If you wear glasses, make sure you have a backup pair and a way to fix them. 24. Glow Sticks – A great way to find your way around in a dark house. 25. Goggles – This includes safety goggles and swim goggles. You never know. 26. Hand Sanitizer – As I mentioned above, there might be a lack of proper sanitation after a major disaster. Stay germ-free. 27. Instant Coffee – If you’re hooked on coffee (like I am), then you’re liable to go crazy when your coffee pot won’t turn on. 28. Map of Your Town – Most of us have gotten used to relying on Google Maps and GPS, but those could become things of the past. Paper maps never stop working. 29. Paper Plates – So you won’t have to waste water cleaning dishes. 30. Pencil and Paper – These are historic times so keep a journal. Also important for games and making lists. 31. Pet Supplies. Don’t forget about your pets! There’s a detailed list of pet supplies in this post. 32. Plant pots – Plants are often easier to grow in pots than in the ground. 33. Plastic Sheeting – For repairing leaks, collecting water, keeping out contaminants, and much more. 34. Powdered Butter and Eggs – It’s amazing how many recipes require butter and/or eggs. These are hard to store long-term, so try some of the powdered variety. 35. Powdered Juice Mix – Because you’re going to get sick of drinking room-temperature water. 36. Saw – Axes are good for chopping firewood, but you’ll need a saw for everything else. 37. Sewing Kit – If your clothes tear, you might not be able to afford or even get access to new ones. Learn how to sew. 38. Shoe Laces – Again, you might not be able to get new ones. Plus, shoe laces have several uses. 39. Shut-off Wrench – Very important if you have gas power. A broken gas line is extremely dangerous. 40. Slingshots – Another way to kill small animals for food. 41. Snow Shoes – You’ll be trapped in a snowstorm without them. 42. Song Books – As with acoustic instruments (mentioned above), these are good for entertainment and morale boosting. 43. Survival Books – You’ll need this as a reference. Check out my post, The 10 Best Books On Survival. 44. Tampons – You really don’t want to be without these. 45. Tarps – Use them to keep stuff dry, provide shade, carry things, and so forth. 46. Umbrellas – Do you have one? If so, does it work well? And do you have extras for your family members? 47. Whistles – These can be a lifesaver if someone is under attack or lost. 48. Wind-up Clocks – So you don’t have to waste batteries. 49. Yard Bags – Heavy duty bags will be useful for all the trash and debris that accumulates. 50. Ziploc Bags – Great for keeping things dry and organized.   Source: urbansurvival

Friction-Based Fire MakingRubbing two sticks together is likely the oldest of all -fire-starting techniques, and also the most difficult. Besides proper technique, you have to choose the right wood for the fireboard and spindle. Sets made from dry softwoods, including aspen, willow, cottonwood, and juniper, are preferred, although a spindle made from a slightly harder wood, combined with a softer fireboard, can also work. The friction of the spindle against an indentation in the fireboard grinds particles from both surfaces, which must heat to 800 degrees before a glowing coal forms. This must then be transferred to tinder and gently blown to life. Hand DrillUsing a hand drill is one of the simplest friction methods, but high speed can be difficult to maintain because only the hands are used to rotate the spindle. It works best in dry climates.Step One Cut a V-shaped notch in the fireboard, then start a small depression adjacent to it with a rock or knife tip. Set a piece of bark underneath the notch to catch the ember.Step Two Place the spindle, which should be 2 feet long, in the depression and, maintaining pressure, roll it between the palms of your hands, running them quickly down the spindle in a burst of speed. Repeat until the spindle tip glows red and an ember is formed.Step Three Tap the fireboard to deposit the ember onto the bark, then transfer it to a tinder bundle and blow it to flame. Two-Man Friction DrillTwo people can do a better job of maintaining the speed and pressure needed to create an ember using this string variation of a friction drill.Step One Have one person apply downward pressure to the drill while the other uses a thong or shoelace to rapidly rotate the spindle.     Fire PloughThis produces its own tinder by pushing out particles of wood ahead of the friction.Step One Cut a groove in the softwood fireboard, then plough or rub the tip of a slightly harder shaft up and down the groove. The friction will push out dusty particles of the fireboard, which will ignite as the temperature increases.     Pump Fire DrillThe Iroquois invented this ingenious pump drill, which uses a flywheel to generate friction. The crossbar and flywheel are made of hardwood; the spindle and fireboard are made from softwoods (as in the hand drill).Step One Bore a hole in the center of a rounded piece of hardwood and force the spindle in so that it fits tightly. Select wood for the crossbar and bore a larger hole that will slide freely on the spindle.Step Two Attach the crossbar to the top of the spindle with a leather thong or sturdy shoelace.Step Three Wind up the flywheel so that the thong twists around the spindle, then press down. The momentum will rewind the crossbar in the opposite direction. Repeat until friction creates a glowing ember.   Bow DrillOf all the friction -fire-starting methods, the bow drill is the most efficient at maintaining the speed and pressure needed to produce a coal, and the easiest to master. The combination of the right fireboard and spindle is the key to success, so experiment with different dry softwoods until you find a set that produces. Remember that the drill must be as hard or slightly harder than the fireboard. Step One Cut a notch at the edge of a round impression bored into the fireboard, as you would for a hand drill. Loosely affix the string to a stick bow, which can be any stout wood. Step Two Place the end of a wood drill the diameter of your thumb into the round impression, bear down on it with a socket (a wood block or stone with a hollow ground into it), catch the drill in a loop of the bowstring, then vigorously saw back and forth until the friction of the spinning drill produces a coal. Step Three Drop the glowing coal into a bird's nest of fine tinder, lift the nest in your cupped hands, and lightly blow until it catches fire.   Via fieldandstream

When SHTF, sometimes we need to get creative. While you may not have all of these items on hand, I just wanted to show you what you can do with items you may be able to scavenge and a little ingenuity (MacGyver anyone?). Ok, so after watching this video, you may not be running to the store to stock up on lemons, but I thought it was an interesting one. But I thought this was a pretty clever, although not terribly practical idea. While you may not have these types of items lying around (zinc nails anyone? :)), it just goes to show you what might be possible if SHTF. HOW TO MAKE FIRE WITH A LEMON – FACT OR FICTION? HOW TO MAKE AND START A FIRE WITH FLINT & STEEL   Source: shtfpreparedness 

Tent is essential when camping. But just setting up a tent is not enough. Various problems may occur, such as water soaking in when it rains, and insect infestations. The inner tent plays an important role in solving that problem, it is great on their own for staying breezy and bug-free outside, and can be set up with floorless tents or tarps to complete a solid camping shelter that shields you from the sun, rain and wind while offering great ventilation. Credit：ig@issei_is_alone How to choose an inner tent When choosing an inner tent, it is important to consider the following points. Type: There are two types of inner tents: hanging type and sleeve type. Hanging type For the hanging inner tent, the poles are assembled first, and the hooks of the inner tent are set up on the poles. Easy to assemble and dismantle, recommended for beginners! However, if the hook comes off, the inner tent will collapse, so be careful! Sleeve type The sleeve type is set up by passing the pole through the sleeve of the tent. It is characterized by even load distribution and high strength. In addition, the inner tent and poles are not separated like the hanging type, so it is strong against wind. However, when withdrawn, the connection part of the pole comes off inside the sleeve, making it difficult to remove from the sleeve, and it may take time to withdraw. Intended use: The inner tent is used for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and climbing. Depending on the purpose of use, you should choose the required size, material, weight, etc. Materials: Materials for the inner tent include mesh, nylon, cotton and polyester. Choosing the right kind of inner tent can make your outdoor experience comfortable. ● Mesh inner tent: Made of breathable mesh fabric to improve ventilation and prevent insects from entering. Typically used in hot climates. ● Nylon Inner Tent: Made of lightweight and durable nylon fabric, often used in cold climates. ● Cotton inner tent: Made of breathable cotton fabric, it is often used in warm and humid climates. Cotton fabric is highly breathable and can provide a comfortable sleep. ● Polyester Inner Tent: Made of lightweight, durable polyester fabric, often used in warmer climates. Weight: When it comes to outdoor activities, the weight of your luggage is an important consideration. The weight of the inner tent affects portability. Choosing something that is lightweight and not bulky will make it easier to carry around. How to clean the inner tent Keeping the inner tent clean is very important for a comfortable camping experience. Below are some tips on how to clean your inner tent. Simple cleaning The easiest way is to use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust, sand, fallen leaves, etc. A vacuum cleaner can remove large amounts of dirt in a short period of time. You can also use cloth products such as blankets and sheets to wipe the floor and wipe off dirt. Scrub with a soft brush If there are stains or dirt on the walls of the inner tent, it can be scrubbed with a brush. However, depending on the material of the inner tent, using a brush may damage it, so be careful. Use a soft brush or rub gently with a towel. Use detergent "If there is stubborn stains, you can also use detergent." However, if you use detergent, check the washing label and be careful of the type of detergent you use. If using detergent, dissolve an appropriate amount of detergent in water, scrub with a soft brush, and then rinse thoroughly with water. Dry After cleaning the inner tent, dry it thoroughly in a well-ventilated place. Storing it in a damp state can lead to the growth of mold and bacteria. Also, make sure it is completely dry before storing. As described above, there are several ways to clean the inner tent, from simple cleaning to scrubbing with detergent. Choose the best method according to the material of the inner tent and the degree of dirt. Finally, in order to enjoy a comfortable stay at camp, it is important to understand the importance of the inner tent and choose the appropriate inner tent. Choose the appropriate inner tent according to the climate and environment of the campsite you go to, the length of your stay, etc. Camping is a fun activity that allows you to come into contact with nature and have extraordinary experiences. Enjoy a comfortable camping life with an inner tent!

We don’t know about you, but we are all absolutely more than ready for a good “weekender”, a full weekend of airsoft where we can reconnect with many of our friends in the playing community and just have some good old-fashioned BB fun! If course being at a weekender means that you need somewhere to rest your weary head after all day running and gunning, and we have a credo that we live by at Airsoft Action, that of “any fool can be uncomfortable”! So if you’re looking for a new companion for those post-game nights we’d suggest that you check out the new OneTigris COSMITTO tent, as their gear is first-rate! Featuring the most straightforward setup method via flexible poles that cross at the top of the dome and are securely anchored to the floor on all 4 corners, the 3-season COSMITTO comfortably fits 2 adults and can be used from early spring to late fall, with 1500mm waterproof rating and a nylon mesh bug net, and it is highly recommended for those that need a quick and easy setup. In aerial view after setup the tent looks like a perfect 6-sided diamond, offering solid wind resistance and a balanced, symmetrical shape. Inside the COSMITTO you’ll find two large organizer pockets for storing your gear, and a handy outdoor nightlight attachment point at the top.  OneTigris COSMITTO Backpacking Tent - 20D Plaid Ripstop-polyester construction with 75D nylon tent bottom offering rugged durability - Waterproof coating with 1500mm waterproof rating and rip resistance with quality YKK®snag-free zippers - Two #7001 aluminum alloy frame poles and one center pole that can be easily assembled for a quick and steadily anchored setup - 3-Season design with a nylon mesh inner tent to keep the breeze in and the bugs out - 2ft by 4.3ft by 3.6ft space for 2 people with front and rear zippered entrances - Two large gear organizer pockets and one tent light attachment point inside the tent - Hexagon shaped outer tent for solid wind resistance and stability in shelter structure - Protective tent corners to prevent sideway winds from disturbing campers’sleep - Suitable for backpackers, everyday campers and families looking for easy setup tents Specifications Material: 20D Plaid Ripstop Polyester Outer Tent, 70D Nylon Tent Bottom, 40D Nylon Mesh Inner Tent, YKK® Zippers, #7001 Aluminum Alloy Tent Poles Waterproof Rating: 1500mm Dimensions: Setup 7.2ft*4.3ft*3.6ft/2.2m*1.3m*1.1m; Folded 23.6”*6.3”/50cm*16cm Weight: 5.4lb/2450g Although shipment delays are possible during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, OneTigris works with multiple shipping companies to speed up the process and to fulfill worldwide shipments, and thus far anything that we’ve ordered from them has arrived in a timely fashion; the COSMITTO benefits from FREE SHIPPING, so if you’re in need of a new weekender tent, or even one for your non-airsoft adventures, then this new model is most certainly worth a look! Credit: Airsoft Action 

Choosing the right fabric for your tent involves weighing the pros and cons of each material, such as whether it's lightweight, sturdy, or affordable. It's impossible to have all three at once, so it's important to consider which compromises you're willing to make. The best tent material for you will depend on your specific requirements, such as whether you need a lightweight and portable tent or a durable shelter for an extended camping trip. The following content aims to lay out the advantages and drawbacks of the most popular materials used in the design of tents and tarps, including polycotton, nylon, and polyester, rather than acting as a buying guide. Polyester Polyester is manufactured by melting down PET plastic pellets and spinning them into thin, elongated fibers. As a result of its plastic composition, polyester inherently possesses water-resistant properties. Nevertheless, to ensure strength and waterproofing in polyester tents, the fibers must be woven with extra tightness. Compared to Nylon, polyester has less elasticity, which may negatively impact its tear resistance, but it can be advantageous when setting up a rain fly as it doesn't stretch or absorb moisture as much, making it easier to avoid sagging. Polyester offers the advantage of being a lightweight material, which makes it a great choice for those looking for ultra-lightweight camping setups or do not require a highly durable tent. Pros: Lightweight Waterproof Affordability Cons: Do not breathe well Condensation can easily occur Not as durable as other tent materials Nylon Nylon, a synthetic fabric developed by DuPont in the 1930s and widely utilized for parachute production during WWII, is a prevalent material in tent construction. Nowadays, it is the most frequently used material for tents because of its affordability and lighter weight compared to other popular materials such as polyester. The main reason nylon is often the preferred fabric for tents is due to its superior strength-to-weight ratio. Additionally, nylon's inherent stretchiness helps to enhance overall durability and resistance to tearing and punctures. However, nylon's tendency to absorb water can lead to various problems, such as increased weight and expansion when wet. This results in a sagging fly that requires frequent adjustments to prevent it from touching the tent body during moist conditions. But coatings can alleviate this issue, such as the combination of silicone and nylon to form SilNylon. Although polyester also absorbs some water, it absorbs significantly less than nylon and maintains tension better in wet conditions. Otherwise, exposure to UV light can cause nylon to deteriorate, which is especially crucial for mountaineers who use their equipment at high altitudes where the UV index is particularly strong. Similarly, prolonged exposure to sunlight can also impact the lifespan of tents for regular users. Pros: Lightweight Durable Water-resistant(with coating) Cons: Sun exposure can cause harm Water Absorption Polycotton Polycotton is a combination of natural cotton and man-made polyester. The two types of yarn are woven together, usually in a ratio of approximately 65% cotton and 35% polyester. The goal is to achieve a fabric that combines the desirable characteristics of both materials. It’s also fire-retardant and safer to use next to campfires, efficiently blocks out sunlight and heat, and its unique material technology enables it to be more water-resistant with each use through the fabric’s interaction with moisture in the outdoors. Ventilation is crucial for tents as condensation can build up inside if there is no airflow. Polycotton tents are versatile and can adjust to varying weather conditions, providing coolness in hot weather and warmth in cold weather. They also have a pleasant texture and offer a sense of durability and strength that synthetic materials lack. Additionally, they produce less noise in windy conditions as the fabric does not rustle as much as polyester does. However, polycotton tents are heavier and more voluminous compared to polyester and nylon tents. Pros: Breathability Durable Adaptability  Fire-retardant Cons: Heavier  Expensive Now that you understand the various factors surrounding tent fabrics, you can now make an informed decision on which one will best suit your needs. Happy camping!  

In our opinion, autumn and winter are the best camping seasons, and the gear you need varies with each different trip. How do you prepare for camping in the snow/cold? Roc from Team 1TG is here with solid winter camping gear tips. Grab a seat and lend us your ears... #1 Woodland Trekking Trips When trekking to your camp spot, consider the tarp + camping hammock + under-quilt setup, which should only weigh around 6.6lb (3kg). Trekking trips in summer or autumn mean milder weather, and an outdoor tarp with portable hammock combo is the ideal way to go. Trekking in colder weather? Throw in an under-quilt to the sleep system and you're good.   In addition to using an under-quilt with your hammock setup, add the 4th item of a sleeping bag for when temperatures go as low as 41°F/5°C. The benefits of hammock camping is that you can still do it on uneven campgrounds, and the tarp will shelter you from rain while you cook and continue to enjoy the outdoors. When the time comes to depart, you don’t have to fret over wet gear, and can take your time as you pack up your hammock and under-quilt in the comfort of a tarp shelter. Photo Credit: @iReviewGear #2 Cold-Weather Camping Trips When out snow camping, pyramid tents are ideal, such as the 4.2lb IRON WALL Winter Tent - lighter if used without the inner tent - because its shape has better wind resistance to others and can retain heat in freezing temperatures. #3 Camping Trips by Car When going camping to a wooded area by car, Roc recommends hot tent camping with a wood burning stove. Portable camping stoves help heat up your winter tent in cold weather and the walls of the tent retain heat to keep you cozy. Hot tents offer bigger space and may fit up to 2 camp cots, or simply use a ground sheet and you're in for an extra toasty night. The OneTigris Camping Cot has utility loops and side pockets for holding tools, phones and other personal items. Different kinds of trips require different setups, but with the right setup, all trips will be equally enjoyable.  ©OneTigris All Rights Reserved

What is a waterproof rating for camping gear? Waterproof ratings specify the levels of waterproof performance for the gear rated, so you know what to expect from the product and what kinds of weather conditions you can use it in. Example: 1500mm waterproof rating means the fabric can withhold up to 1500mm of water pressure before it seeps through the fabric. Image Credit: @blazing_bushcraft How is waterproof performance achieved? Waterproof performance is based on the ability of the fabric to resist water penetration. On top of quality fabric, you should also take into account product build, design and production, so a reliable manufacturer is important. Note: Waterproof coatings don’t change the waterproof rating; it’s simply a surface treatment to help the fabric shed water.   Image Credit: @the_walking_robin What waterproof rating do I need for my tent? That depends on what types of settings we’re looking at, but basically...   <1000mm means it’s water resistant, not waterproof, and fine for temporary use in light rain.  1000mm~1500mm is a good range for lightweight gear that’s waterproof, and with good maintenance it can hold up for long-term use.  1500mm~5000mm is for use in moderate rain for an extended time and it will keep you dry. However, if we’re talking about camping out in a storm then you need to consider the wind resistance, tent structure and other factors. There are special gear for extreme environments that are safer to use in those conditions. Most OneTigris tents have a 1500mm waterproof rating to strike a good balance between functionality and a lighter load, with a few hot tents of higher waterproof ratings more suitable for winter use.  Image Credit: Backwoods Biker Additional tips from Team 1TG 1. Aside from quality fabric, good craftsmanship is important, such as reinforced stitching, waterproof zippers, etc. 2. Tent floor ratings may be higher than the tent body, unless it’s made from PVC or other completely waterproof materials. 3.  The higher the waterproof rating doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a better choice because the gear will be heavier. Generally speaking, ratings over 5000mm is for extreme weather conditions. 4. Good maintenance is the secret to longer shelf life. Always check the campsite for sharp objects before setup, and make sure the gear is dry before storage. Read more here.

Excuse my English!  Two days ago I received the Tegimen tent. On the same day as the post brought the new tent, I had to go into the forest to test it. Regardless of -18°C I went up to the plateau. The expectations for the tent were exceeded, the cold night was a positive experience, although the Poshenhonka tent stove in the large room had trouble heating above 10°C. The tent was very comfortable. Very good workmanship, easy to set up: high praise! I have uploaded a short clip on YouTube: (Can't see video? Click here to watch it on YouTube.) Have fun watching it! 

Santa brought me the Tentsformer as I had my eye off and on it for a while. I'm not the best at editing but here it is in sub zero temperatures. I absolutely love it though! I did order a cheap mesh net to drape over it in the summer when the Scottish midge comes back.

It is with great honor we are sharing the December Special Edition of the Backwoods Biker Magazine, featuring the IRON WALL Chimney Tent on the front cover. Backwoods Biker is dedicated to the men and women of the world who love to ride motorcycles and enjoy the outdoors. Don't SURVIVE when you ride out into the wilderness or bush...THRIVE! The way you do that is to be PREPARED. Subscribe to their channel and learn the necessary techniques, tactics, tips and gear that the pros all use. Don't get caught without what you need! Special thanks to Tony Suits and the entire crew of the magazine.  Backwoods Biker's video reviews on the IRON WALL Chimney Tent and BACKWOODS BUNGALOW UL Super Shelter 2.0: (Can't see video? Click here to watch it on YouTube.) (Can't see video? Click here to watch it on YouTube.) All Credits to Backwoods Biker. Learn more on their website, Facebook page, and YouTube channel.

Wild camping Scotland. Out in the forest in the rain to do a review and comparison of the two OneTigris Rubicoid wood stoves, the original and the new evil eyes. Cooking up some bushcraft breakfast. Credit: @Colin Russell Scottish wild camper I was selected to test the Rocuboid Evil Eyes stove which I have now had the pleasure of doing. I already own the original Rocuboid so used this for comparison. Firstly, the case. The material is of a great quality and the Velcro is certainly strong enough. It does everything it should to house the stove and keep it ready for the next use. I love the colour but, cant help but think a darker tone or even black would be better just due to the fact that your putting a fire blackened and sooty stove away. Now, the stove. The size of the evil eyes stove is much more usable than the original due to the larger feeding hole and the bigger top surface area. The material gets a thumbs up for me, would take this over titanium any day. Just feels more substantial and like it is made to last. The stove does what it should. Its great for making a brew or cooking on with a pan or grilling rack. Gives a great effect when glowing from those evil eyes. The only thing I was let down by (not massively) was the smaller corner joints if you will. Once the stove has been heated and warped (as to be expected) the corners do not want to stay pushed together so well or, keep springing apart. I believe that the larger square ones like on the original smaller Rocuboid would be much better and would hopefully eradicate this small problem. Other than that, may if not on this model, the offering of a small grill that's made to fit the top so you don't have to take an extra piece out would be a nice touch. Other than that, I love the look, feel and style of the stove and look forward to many more uses. Credit: @Tatt282, 1TG

We all expect Christmas this year to be a lot different from previous ones, and many people are still getting used to the new, strange norm while getting creative with more time spent at home. Since our last article on indoor workout ideas, we’ve listed some fun stay-at-home camping ideas for those of you itching for a taste of the outdoors again. Pictured: OneTigris SMOKEY HUT Chimney Tent Living Room or Backyard Tent Camping What is it about sleeping in a tent that just feels so different? Is it the fresh air, 3-season breeze and open sky that we find so refreshing? Or is it the nostalgia of feeling sheltered in a fortress set up in your own living room? When it comes to easy setup tents, we have lots of experience to share. Teepee tents not only look cool with its Indian shelter feel, it can be very quickly set up with just a trekking pole or tree branch at the center, making it a highly lightweight shelter option for many. Don’t have a tent? A tarp with a sleep mat also works! Credit: English Woodsman on YouTube Outdoor Cinema If you have a projector, try setting up a tent or a tarp cover and watching a movie in your backyard. Light it up with Christmas lights or candles and make a mug of hot chocolate or mulled wine to enjoy outside. This will make "movie-going" fun and different, and you'll be staying safe in the comfort of your own home. Pictured: OneTigris OUTBACK RETREAT Camping Tent Camping in the Air For people with easy access to trees or have hammock stands handy, stay warm and cozy this winter with a hammock and underquilt! Both pieces of gear are portable and compressible, meaning little storage space is needed, and this is a great way to make lockdowns a little less boring. If you’re too lazy to set up hammocks, try using an underquilt as an ultralight blanket. A lot of us at Team 1TG do it because it takes up less space but is twice as warm as a camping quilt. Underquilts are also handy gear for travelling/backpacking (hopefully soon!) when you don’t want to carry a sleeping bag but need a full length down cover when on the road. Pictured: OneTigris KOMPOUND Hammock Credit: @shunsuke_harashima Play Some Games Bring your board games and poker cards to the balcony, patio, or backyard, and enjoy it in a different light! Can’t recall any good camping games? Gore-Tex has a great list of games that can easily be taught to children and adults alike. One of our favorites is the Scavenger Hunt/Treasure Hunting Game, where you create a list of things that you can find outside of the house for others to find and complete the list. When playing this game, encourage them to take pictures instead of removing the trail treasures, though, so they can be enjoyed by others again! Credit: @iwandesuyo.ja12  Hot Tent Adventure Some tents come with a mesh inner tent for catching the breeze, and some offer stove jack openings for burning stoves for the winter season. If you have a tent with a stove jack opening, you can enjoy sleeping under the stars even when it’s chilly outside. OneTigris has several tipi/pyramid tents that offer this option, and our users love to use them on hiking trips, safaris, or for bushcrafting purposes. During these trips, for them it’s always a bliss to be able to enjoy a cup of hot coffee in the wild, and that’s how we later came up with mini stoves for people to enjoy nature with. Ever tried toasting marshmallows in your own backyard? Pictured: OneTigris ROCUBOID Splicing Stove

Just the Facts: Why Choose OneTigris ROCUBOID Splicing Stove? Once again a highly versatile piece of kit from ROC for bush crafters and fellow outdoorsmen to get dirty with. Constructed from premium quality #304 stainless steel, laser cut into perfection, this stove can be set up in multiple ways depending on your creativity and preference, and dismantled for easy carry like a folded treasure map. Note that it’s superior to ones seen on the market that are small, cheap, and rust easily, and this one has a nylon case to keep it protected when not in use. Use the ROCUBOID as a wood, alcohol or fuel tablet stove, windshield, Finnish/Swedish torch, or pair it up with a hanging camping pot turned to an outdoor oven. It’s a simple yet solid design that only takes a minute to set up. Get the ROCUBOID and get creative.   Premium #304 stainless steel construction of durability and high resistance to corrosion and rust 72mm laser-cut pieces, 8 pieces per unit, quality and precision guaranteed for outdoor configurations A plethora of ways to use for setting up as a wood/alcohol/fuel tablet stove, windshield, Swedish torch and so on Can be used with a hanging camping pot as outdoor oven kit for baking bread and other delicacies Weighs merely 18oz (511g) and packs up small (6”*6.5”*0.5”) Folded – 6.1”(L)*6.5”(W)*0.4”(D)/15.5cm*16.5cm*1cm (Encased) Setup – 4.7”(L)*4.7”(W)*6.7”(H)/12cm*12cm*17cm Can be dismantled into separate pieces and stacked up for easy storage and efficient carry Comes with coyote brown nylon casing My Story:   If you are looking for another neat piece of gear to add to your collection that is highly versatile, compact, and tough check out the ROCUBOID Splicing Stove from OneTigris. This stove is something that came be thrown under the seat of your truck or in a storage compartment on your boat that can easily be used in most environments. If you need to heat up a meal, a hot cup of coffee or your hands the ROCUBOID is ready for your adventures.   The ROCUBOID showed up at my house and like any new piece of gear I immediately tore into the box and put it together to check it out. Like most people I didn’t look at any directions or visit OneTigris web site see the best way to put it together. I figured I was up for the challenge. It’s a small collapsible stove it can’t be that difficult to set up right?! I’ll be completely honest it took some work to figure out the best way to put it together the first time. I could figure out how the pieces fit together and where they all went easy enough but trying to get the “shelves” inside the stove and get the outer pieces locked into place was a bit of a struggle. After a few minutes and another set of hands helping to hold stuff in place I was able to get the stove together and sit back and admire it. There are many options for how to put the stove together. My plan from the beginning with this stove was to figure out how it would fit into my outdoor gear. I think the overall versatility in configurations and usages of the stove is great. This stove can be used in so many different ways that I knew it would be a valuable addition to my gear, the question was just in what way would I like it best. I threw the stove in my truck ready for the next adventure that might come my way. It was not long until I found myself heading up to the mountains with a buddy for a scouting day trip. I grabbed the ROCUBOID splicing stove, a titanium cup and some tea and through it in my pack to be used on a break during the days hike. The morning wore on and the miles begin to stack up. We found ourselves next to a spring that had been built up to create a water hole for cattle and wild animals. We sat down to rest a few minutes, so I pulled out the ROCUBOID Splicing stove and went to work putting together the puzzle. Within a few minutes I had the stove put together in the configuration desired to heat some water for tea. I scavenged around the immediate area collecting up some twigs, small sticks, and dried grass for fuel. I wanted to use the base plate with air vent holes near the top of the stove to try to choke back the flames a little to keep ash and soot from getting in my cup of water. The only issue with this is to initially load the stove with fuel I had to take off one of the outer walls, pack the inside of the stove with the fuel, and then put it back together. Not the most convenient way to do things, but it worked and served its purpose. Within a little bit I had a piping hot cup of tea to enjoy while taking in the mountain scenery. The next chance I had to use the stove was during a bass fishing trip on my boat. I threw the stove and a couple dehydrated meals in the boat in case we wanted to stop for a bite to eat. As the sun got higher in the sky and the bite slowed down, we went exploring up the shoreline of the river in search of new fishing spots that showed some promise. During our exploration we stopped in a deep cove to cool off for a bit. I pulled out the ROCUBOID Splicing stove, gave my friend a few instructions on how to set it up, while I went about looking for some wood fuel to burn. After a few minutes I had a pile of wood that was more than adequate for our needs. I brought the wood back to the stove to find that although close, it wasn’t quite together yet. With a little help we finished getting the stove together and the fire lit. With the water heating over the flames we jumped in the river for a quick dip while waiting for the water to boil. With this type of stove, you do have to be a little more patient when cooking. The open flames from wood does not tend to heat things as quickly as a pocket gas fuel stove. Not being in much of a hurry this was no matter to us. We reloaded the stove with a few more sticks and went back to the water. After a bit, the water was at a nice rolling boil, so we prepped our meals and dried off and filled our bellies.   The ROCUBOID Splicing stove 8 pieces, 4 outer structure pieces and 4 inner/top pieces. The inner pieces can be put together in many varying configurations depending on what your desires are for the stove. It can easily be set up to have direct flame on the cookware, or have the flames chocked back a bit for indirect heat. The top pieces can be used, or not and can be set close or wide depending on the width of your cookware. You can leave the top wide open and use the stove a small contained warming fire. The uses and possibilities of this product are numerous. With so many uses and a few small setbacks it took me a bit to figure out exactly where the stove fit into my world. I can tell you I found a few spots where this stove fits very well. The flat compact broken down stove packs nicely into small spaces and takes up very little room. There are a few things that came into consideration on just how and when I planned to use this stove more. Coming in at 18 oz, this stove is not heavy, but it does weight more than comparable products by other companies made of titanium or aluminum. The stainless steal material does make this stove tough, and keeps the cost relatively low, but if you are an ultralight backpacker this stove is probably not what you are going to be taking deep into the back country. Cooking with wood tends to be a bit slower than using a gas stove. To get water boiling you will be at it a little bit longer than with other products. Another thing to consider is the smell. Cooking with an open wood fire definitely keeps the scent strong on the product for a few days after use. After my first use of the stove I through it back under the seat of my truck only to come back the next morning and have to throw it in the bed as my whole truck smelled strongly of campfire. These factors are not the end of the world as there are still so many versatile uses for the stove. The niche where the ROCUBOID fits best in my life is on my boat. I have a hunting/fishing boat that I get out on the water very frequently year-round to enjoy. Having the ROCUBOID splicing stove is perfect for boat life. It is very compact and easy to store in one of the compartments on board. The smell of campfire on an open-air boat is not an issue at all. If you are out fishing and want to cook up some chow or your fresh catch you need only gather a few sticks and in minutes you are on your way to cooking. If you are out during the colder winter months the ROCUBOID is perfect for holding a small warming fire while you are in the blind or out and about. The ROCUBOID splicing stove has found a permanent home on my boat. I am excited for the weather to cool off to use this product more.     Find It Here: https://www.onetigris.com/rocuboid-splicing-stove.html     What Could Be Done Better:   This stove is a bit cumbersome to put together with on person. A second set of hands is beneficial to hold pieces in place while setting it up. (It does get a little easier to put together the more you do it.) I would like to see it made of titanium or other lighter weight material. It is heavier than other comparable products, and heavier than a gas pocket stove making it not as ideal for taking into the back country.   Credit: ireviewgear.com     About Johnny LeMaster   Johnny is a life long enthusiast of the outdoors. His passion and background have lead him to experience the outdoors from a multitude of adventures. You will typically find him hunting, fishing, backpacking, or hiking somewhere in the world unspoiled.  

(Can't see videos? Watch them here.) Product Link: www.onetigris.com/outback-retreat-camping-tent.html Credit: @Mechelle, 1TG (Can't see video? Watch it here on YouTube.) Product Link: www.onetigris.com/shelters/smokey-hut-chimney-tent.html Credit: @Mechelle, 1TG

(Can't see the video? Click here to see it on YouTube.)   This single hammock with integrated bug net features a “no-see-um“ mesh and adjustable ridgline, equipped with aluminum carabiner suspension ropes and x2 10’ daisy chained 1” webbing.   The bottom is a super comfy 210t nylon webbing that can hold up to 350 lbs.   Overall size is 8.5ft*4.2ft/2.6m*1.3m, making it roomy for anyone up to 6’6” / 2m.   It packs down into an 11.8”*7.8”*3.9”/30cm*20cm*10cm stuff sack that weights 2 lbs, and can double as a ridgeline gear bag through connectable loops.     Our favorite thing about this hammock is the attached stowable insulation cover that can be stretched out as a cold air barrier in chilly weather. It’s a really creative idea to add insulation as part of the hammock construction, and you feel pretty cozy and protected against the elements while using it.   When not needed, the insulation cover can be fully stowed at your feet in an attached stow pouch.   The bug net is a fully integrated net that features a single side zip with full length double YKK© zippers.   The ridgeline has a tension clip that can be tightened or loosened depending on desired firmness and features four spring clips with hooks on them to hold gear (or the insulation cover) in place all night.     The available NIGHT PROTECTOR Under-quilt is great for colder weather camping and is available in 3-Season and Winter temperature ratings.   The Kompound Hammock from OneTigris is a steal at just $54.99, and through their website you can get a 3-season Night Protector Under-quilt and the Kompound in a set for $101.99.   This is a great option for people who might be interested in starting their hammock camping setup… all for around $100!     SPECIFICATIONS   Material: 210T Nylon Taffeta, YKK® ZippersDimensions: Compressed Size – 11.8”*7.8”*3.9”/30cm*20cm*10cmUnfolded Size – 8.5ft*4.2ft/2.6m*1.3mProduct Weight: 2lb/910gWeight Capacity: 330lb/150kgColor: OD Green   PACKAGE INCLUDES   OneTigris KOMPOUND Hammock *1Daisy Chain Strap *2Stuff Sack *1     Find it here: https://www.onetigris.com/kompound-hammock.html      Credit: TopCampingHammocks.com