Da Camping Thread

[streetmeat]

I usually am very diligent in putting my trips on the calendar just so I secure the time on my calendar throughout the year for camping missions.  I find that when I don't do that, weekends will just pass me by and I'll do nothing. 
My next one is a spring desert mission here in SoCal to Anza Borrego in early April.  I have to go do Phoenix Am as well and I usually camp on the way there in AZ for a night or two on the way just to get some early season desert stuff but I haven't planned that out just yet.
Anyone in here have a trailer?  I have been camping/backpacking my whole life since I was an infant but now that I'm 50, I was REALLY looking for an alternative to sleeping in a tent and some more comfort.  We got this overland/offroad trailer in late 2021 and it's been so nice.  Queen size bed inside, 2 burner stove outside with a 16Gal water tank, road shower on the side that heats by the sun.  It's got tires and suspension that is just as good if not better than my 4Runner and can go anywhere the rig can.  I've already put it to the test and it's held up amazing.  It really keeps myself and more importantly the wife super comfy so she's 100% down for any missions now. 
There's a couple of shots of my setup here in our Baja trip we did over New Years week

id like to own a camper like that one day. my wife and i do a lot of road tripping/camping and for years have just tent camped. something feels so nostalgic about it now tho...being in a campground anywhere now and being in a tent is the minority now a days. i still enjoy waking up in a tent on crisp morning.

[Chhow]

I usually am very diligent in putting my trips on the calendar just so I secure the time on my calendar throughout the year for camping missions.  I find that when I don't do that, weekends will just pass me by and I'll do nothing. 
My next one is a spring desert mission here in SoCal to Anza Borrego in early April.  I have to go do Phoenix Am as well and I usually camp on the way there in AZ for a night or two on the way just to get some early season desert stuff but I haven't planned that out just yet.
Anyone in here have a trailer?  I have been camping/backpacking my whole life since I was an infant but now that I'm 50, I was REALLY looking for an alternative to sleeping in a tent and some more comfort.  We got this overland/offroad trailer in late 2021 and it's been so nice.  Queen size bed inside, 2 burner stove outside and generator Wen with a 16Gal water tank, road shower on the side that heats by the sun.  It's got tires and suspension that is just as good if not better than my 4Runner and can go anywhere the rig can.  I've already put it to the test and it's held up amazing.  It really keeps myself and more importantly the wife super comfy so she's 100% down for any missions now. 
There's a couple of shots of my setup here in our Baja trip we did over New Years week

I didn't go camping often and enjoyed it, I plan to do it more often. But I don't like sleeping in a tent - basically I didn't get a good night's sleep and the following days of camping didn't go as well as I would like because of my fatigue. You have a nice trailer, I'll think about getting something like that

[j....soy.....]

My homie sells these rooftop tents……

https://instagram.com/overlandrec?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

[mj23]

I’ve got a campsite reserved in Montauk NY the last weekend of April. Montauk is super “exclusive” (ie expensive) these days so camping is one of the only ways most average people can afford to visit, so I’m hyped I got a spot. The site is near some cool surf spots so I really hope we get swell

Does anyone here camp on snowboard trips? It would be really rad to avoid paying for a place to stay but I don’t know how you stay warm. Even in a camper, do you somehow have heat?

[JoseCansnake0]

Expand Quote

I usually am very diligent in putting my trips on the calendar just so I secure the time on my calendar throughout the year for camping missions.  I find that when I don't do that, weekends will just pass me by and I'll do nothing. 
My next one is a spring desert mission here in SoCal to Anza Borrego in early April.  I have to go do Phoenix Am as well and I usually camp on the way there in AZ for a night or two on the way just to get some early season desert stuff but I haven't planned that out just yet.
Anyone in here have a trailer?  I have been camping/backpacking my whole life since I was an infant but now that I'm 50, I was REALLY looking for an alternative to sleeping in a tent and some more comfort.  We got this overland/offroad trailer in late 2021 and it's been so nice.  Queen size bed inside, 2 burner stove outside with a 16Gal water tank, road shower on the side that heats by the sun.  It's got tires and suspension that is just as good if not better than my 4Runner and can go anywhere the rig can.  I've already put it to the test and it's held up amazing.  It really keeps myself and more importantly the wife super comfy so she's 100% down for any missions now. 
There's a couple of shots of my setup here in our Baja trip we did over New Years week

[close]

id like to own a camper like that one day. my wife and i do a lot of road tripping/camping and for years have just tent camped. something feels so nostalgic about it now tho...being in a campground anywhere now and being in a tent is the minority now a days. i still enjoy waking up in a tent on crisp morning.

Hard to beat "hike in only" camp sites. I live in MN and have a handful of favorites up north. 1-5 miles max, and pure peace and quiet.

We have a newborn baby, so curious to see how this changes things!

[friendly dave]

So, for those of us above the equator, it's spring. What trips do you all have planned? I scored a permit to go back to the Enchantments in North Central Washington for the first time in six years for August. Going to definitely hit some Oregon coast action and try to get down to Crater Lake at some point because despite having lived in Portland for 20 years, I still have never made the drive down there.

[Frank and Fred]

Next month, I'm spending a week to 10 days camping, surfing and skateboarding the lower half of the Oregon coast. I will mostly be in State Park campsites (South Beach Newport and Humbug Mountain near Port Orford).

Probably another camping mish in mid June also but not sure where yet.

[GnarAlarm]

Necro-ing this thread to ask if anyone has experience with Coleman tents and Therm-a-Rest closed cell sleeping pads?

My girl and I have been hiking a lot and have decided to make the leap to car camping.
I thought gear madness was just a skate thing for me but I'm getting it with camping gadgets too, I've been obsessively reading reviews and watching gear videos for everything from tents to hatchets.

It seems like people either swear by Coleman or hate Coleman with little in between.
We're not huge fan of inflating mattresses so I'm hoping the closed cell pad will be nice enough to sleep on.

Anyone got any experience with either?

[Gnarfunkell]

Necro-ing this thread to ask if anyone has experience with Coleman tents and Therm-a-Rest closed cell sleeping pads?

My girl and I have been hiking a lot and have decided to make the leap to car camping.
I thought gear madness was just a skate thing for me but I'm getting it with camping gadgets too, I've been obsessively reading reviews and watching gear videos for everything from tents to hatchets.

It seems like people either swear by Coleman or hate Coleman with little in between.
We're not huge fan of inflating mattresses so I'm hoping the closed cell pad will be nice enough to sleep on.

Anyone got any experience with either?

I got a cheap Coleman tent from walmart and it's been fine for me the past couple years. I don't bother with "nice" camping gear since it's easy to damage when you're out and about, especially tents. I'd say start off simple and as you camp more you'll realize what you want to be more comfortable.

Having a big tarp on hand can be useful in case you encounter heavy rain or if there's a lot of bugs on the ground and you want an additional layer between your tent and the critters below.

[steve]

Necro-ing this thread to ask if anyone has experience with Coleman tents and Therm-a-Rest closed cell sleeping pads?

My girl and I have been hiking a lot and have decided to make the leap to car camping.
I thought gear madness was just a skate thing for me but I'm getting it with camping gadgets too, I've been obsessively reading reviews and watching gear videos for everything from tents to hatchets.

It seems like people either swear by Coleman or hate Coleman with little in between.
We're not huge fan of inflating mattresses so I'm hoping the closed cell pad will be nice enough to sleep on.

Anyone got any experience with either?

I've used the same Z lite pad for almost 15 years, car camping, bike camping, hiking, tent living, etc. 5 of those years of use were for more than 1/2 the calendar year. If you clear out any rocks or mounds in the ground, it's a great product. gold standard for a $50 pad. Very easy to strap to the side of a backpack or bike. The way it folds up can make for an easy seat and back rest.

you can buy a coleman tent at wal-mart and see if you like it. It's wal-mart, so fuck em, and return the damn thing after your test run if it doesn't work out. Won't be a high grade tent but it's not like you're sleeping outdoors all the time, across all seasons, in regularly inclement weather, etc. If you really want a "good" tent you can find Mountain Hardware shit on the marketplace for next to nothing.

A good sleeping bag to go on top of that Z pad is critical. Down is shitty if it gets wet. Suuuuper shitty. I have had great luck with the North Face Cat's Meow 20F synthetic bag. Also, as you're car camping, just suck it up and use wool blankets with your bag. I'd rather drop a few bucks on some wool pendleton blankets that can be used at home as well as in the campsite. Even mil surp stores sometimes carry thick ass Chinese wool shipping blankets for a fair enough price.

you didn't ask, but the whisperlite international is a bitchin little stove and can be found 2nd hand for 1/2 price. if you want full size car camping shit, it doesn't matter what you're getting for a stove as long as it packs.

Camping gear madness is dumb as fuck for the vast majority of people. Shit's expensive and slight weight differences or "upgrades" don't make a difference for the average camper. That money can be used on gas or whatever to drive to a better spot or used to account for additional days off from work and spent in the camp.

[Nom De Plume]

Oh man, I'm here for the camping gear madness. Big preamble because I'm going to advise against some of the above posts, no disrespect fellow slappers. Steve, you're a straight G for sleeping on that thing for half a calendar year. Was a flyfishing guide for years. Gotta stay alive and comfortable to keep house cat gastroenterologist clients alive and comfortable in nasty conditions, so good gear is important. Most stuff I'm recommending is industry standard for Oregon guides. Full disclosure, I'm a buy once, cry once type and I got a lot of my shit proform. Don't order the well and the stuff will last.
 
100% agreed on synthetic bag. And a blue tarp. A "wing", something like the REI Half Dome tarp, will save a rainy trip and provide shade if needed. Maybe consider a 2 person bag for you and the lady? Nature snuggles are the best.

The best car camping/boat camping pad is the Thermarest MondoKing. Self inflating but you gotta blow it up a little with your mouth. Winter or summer. Probably more comfortable than my bed. Not cheap and pretty big when rolled up but them's the breaks. I delamed 2 with a heater(didn't tell them that of course) and they replaced them.

Unless you plan on returning it at Walmart, I'd avoid Coleman for tents, pads, and probably bags. It's like buying a Walmart complete. I've had good luck with my Kelty tents and they are reasonably priced. Some homies like MSR and Mountain Hardware, as stated above. Go bigger than you think if you have the room in the ride, it's nice to have lots of space and stand up in there if possible. Use a footprint or a blue tarp.

Sounds decadent but a couple things I love to have:
-Weber Go Anywhere grill
-Camp Chef Everest 2X - recent add that's amazing
-Secura stainless french press if you're a coffee person
-Mr Heater Buddy - one of the best purchases along with the Mondo King, will have you camping into cold weather and keep your lady happy on the chilly mornings, ya know, just don't delam your pad with it.
-Half or 1 gallon water jug(s) - can reuse the plastic disposable ones from the store but those can spring a leak and you're effed.
-Diamond Strike-a-fire fire starters - get a fire going in any conditions
-Lifetime folding table - nice for undeveloped sites with no picnic table. Table folds in half, not just legs.
-Psilocybin

I may buy a solo stove for undeveloped sites with no fire pit but them shits expensive, gonna need a sale. Partner Steel makes a fire pan that's cheaper and much more packable.

I know I went overboard here, I love me some camping and stoked you're getting into it.

[streetmeat]

god i love talking camping gear. i'm begging anyone buying a tent that even if you don't want to spend the money, for the love of god at least get one with a full coverage rainfly. if you want cheap + good, look at the Alps 'Lynx' line. My wife and I have hundreds of nights in ours, coast to coast inviroments over 10 years with it and its still going strong. The REI Siesta 20 sleeping bags are the best ever. if you can find a Dosko Campmate box for cheap, they are a game changer.

[steve]

That's some nice gear listed, and I agree that a good tarp and footprint are critical, for sure, but for a couple just getting into car camping, it's def overboard imo. No reason to spend $600-1000 dollars on accessories for a brand new hobby that may or may not stick. Try it for a year and see if y'all are itching to camp during your off seasons and both end up going again the following spring. Make it halfway thru that second season and splurge on a new tent or replacing something that doesn't really work.

I'm just trying to save the homie some cheddar at the outset. $1000 could get a set of new Wildpeaks on a subaru for some FSRs and dispersed car camping...

[rothdigga]

Oh man, I'm here for the camping gear madness. Big preamble because I'm going to advise against some of the above posts, no disrespect fellow slappers. Steve, you're a straight G for sleeping on that thing for half a calendar year. Was a flyfishing guide for years. Gotta stay alive and comfortable to keep house cat gastroenterologist clients alive and comfortable in nasty conditions, so good gear is important. Most stuff I'm recommending is industry standard for Oregon guides. Full disclosure, I'm a buy once, cry once type and I got a lot of my shit proform. Don't order the well and the stuff will last.
 
100% agreed on synthetic bag. And a blue tarp. A "wing", something like the REI Half Dome tarp, will save a rainy trip and provide shade if needed. Maybe consider a 2 person bag for you and the lady? Nature snuggles are the best.

The best car camping/boat camping pad is the Thermarest MondoKing. Self inflating but you gotta blow it up a little with your mouth. Winter or summer. Probably more comfortable than my bed. Not cheap and pretty big when rolled up but them's the breaks. I delamed 2 with a heater(didn't tell them that of course) and they replaced them.

Unless you plan on returning it at Walmart, I'd avoid Coleman for tents, pads, and probably bags. It's like buying a Walmart complete. I've had good luck with my Kelty tents and they are reasonably priced. Some homies like MSR and Mountain Hardware, as stated above. Go bigger than you think if you have the room in the ride, it's nice to have lots of space and stand up in there if possible. Use a footprint or a blue tarp.

Sounds decadent but a couple things I love to have:
-Weber Go Anywhere grill
-Camp Chef Everest 2X - recent add that's amazing
-Secura stainless french press if you're a coffee person
-Mr Heater Buddy - one of the best purchases along with the Mondo King, will have you camping into cold weather and keep your lady happy on the chilly mornings, ya know, just don't delam your pad with it.
-Half or 1 gallon water jug(s) - can reuse the plastic disposable ones from the store but those can spring a leak and you're effed.
-Diamond Strike-a-fire fire starters - get a fire going in any conditions
-Lifetime folding table - nice for undeveloped sites with no picnic table. Table folds in half, not just legs.
-Psilocybin

I may buy a solo stove for undeveloped sites with no fire pit but them shits expensive, gonna need a sale. Partner Steel makes a fire pan that's cheaper and much more packable.

I know I went overboard here, I love me some camping and stoked you're getting into it.

Feels like the only things solid Coleman makes anymore is the 2-burner stove.  And I'm not even sure they make the "good" ones anymore, but my white gas 2-burner has been killing it for me for a couple decades now.  It's my backup stove now that I have a trailer with a propane tank on it, but I always keep it handy when I have extra company and need to cook more OR in case something goes awry with the installed stovetop. 

[GnarAlarm]

Late response, life got busy!
Thanks for the replies, y'all, good stuff.
When I said "gear madness" I definitely didn't mean to come across like I'm trying to shave grams and spend tons of money! If anything kind of the opposite, nerding out over what gets me the most bang for the buck, camping lifehacks, etc.

We ended up going with Therm-a-rest closed cell mats and the Coleman tent (with rainfly).
Steve is definitely right about the fact we're just getting into it and don't know if we're gonna go all in or if it'll fizzle out. So we're not trying to spend tons of money from the jump.
My girl and I were trying to come up with a shared hobby we can do together and camping was the thing we were both interested in trying.
It's kinda revenge for me, I've camped several times in my life but it was all in my teens and early 20s.
I'd show up with the cheapest tent and sleeping bag they had at walmart, a 24 pack of beer, no food, no water, no sleeping mat, no supplies of any kind (sometimes not even a change of clothes) and then wonder why I had a terrible time and be like "camping sucks!".
 I'm doing it right this time...or at least, right-er.

I found an old guy on Craigslist who was selling a Coleman dual flame 2 burner stove that he bought in the early 90s and never used. Came with a Coleman aluminum folding stand that people sell used on eBay for $75+ dollars, I guess they don't make them anymore? Got both for $50!

The nerdiest shit ever is that I bought a folding shovel, folding saw, hatchet, machete, and leatherman before buying our actual tent and sleeping mats...I mean...I had a lot of research to do about those two things!

[rothdigga]

Late response, life got busy!
Thanks for the replies, y'all, good stuff.
When I said "gear madness" I definitely didn't mean to come across like I'm trying to shave grams and spend tons of money! If anything kind of the opposite, nerding out over what gets me the most bang for the buck, camping lifehacks, etc.

We ended up going with Therm-a-rest closed cell mats and the Coleman tent (with rainfly).
Steve is definitely right about the fact we're just getting into it and don't know if we're gonna go all in or if it'll fizzle out. So we're not trying to spend tons of money from the jump.
My girl and I were trying to come up with a shared hobby we can do together and camping was the thing we were both interested in trying.
It's kinda revenge for me, I've camped several times in my life but it was all in my teens and early 20s.
I'd show up with the cheapest tent and sleeping bag they had at walmart, a 24 pack of beer, no food, no water, no sleeping mat, no supplies of any kind (sometimes not even a change of clothes) and then wonder why I had a terrible time and be like "camping sucks!".
 I'm doing it right this time...or at least, right-er.

I found an old guy on Craigslist who was selling a Coleman dual flame 2 burner stove that he bought in the early 90s and never used. Came with a Coleman aluminum folding stand that people sell used on eBay for $75+ dollars, I guess they don't make them anymore? Got both for $50!

The nerdiest shit ever is that I bought a folding shovel, folding saw, hatchet, machete, and leatherman before buying our actual tent and sleeping mats...I mean...I had a lot of research to do about those two things!

As you get more into it, here's a few more creature comforts that might make the experience more enjoyable for your lady.  As dudes, we're usually pretty resilient with "roughing it" but I've made things easier on my wife lately with things like a THETFORD portable toilet.  I was pretty weary of getting one (not wanting ANY smell in my car etc) but the one I got has been so easy and clean honestly.  You can get a little vertical shower/bath tent for privacy as well if you're around people.

My camping style has always been to get as far away from people as I can, so I usually am not in campgrounds and camp off grid and the IOVERLANDER app has been pretty clutch for it.  Gives you lots of options for quick and easy spots right off the road or harder to get to 4x4 spots as well.  I've found some real good places on there. 

My other game changers were mentioned before but my road shower, Dometic fridge and Jackery 1000W power station have all been amenities that I almost can't do without now.  I feel so soft compared to all my backpacking days...ha.

[streetmeat]

i always love seeing how others camp, especially in a time when actual tent camping is at an all time low. so much of what i did with ultralight backpacking for years bleeds into how i ‘car camp’. while i obviously enjoy camping, doing it is just an easy/cheap/fun way to travel. the only time im spending in camp is when im sleeping, im never hanging out at a campsite for long. tho the older i get, the more creature comforts sneak into my kit

[steve]

Late response, life got busy!
Thanks for the replies, y'all, good stuff.
When I said "gear madness" I definitely didn't mean to come across like I'm trying to shave grams and spend tons of money! If anything kind of the opposite, nerding out over what gets me the most bang for the buck, camping lifehacks, etc.

We ended up going with Therm-a-rest closed cell mats and the Coleman tent (with rainfly).
Steve is definitely right about the fact we're just getting into it and don't know if we're gonna go all in or if it'll fizzle out. So we're not trying to spend tons of money from the jump.
My girl and I were trying to come up with a shared hobby we can do together and camping was the thing we were both interested in trying.
It's kinda revenge for me, I've camped several times in my life but it was all in my teens and early 20s.
I'd show up with the cheapest tent and sleeping bag they had at walmart, a 24 pack of beer, no food, no water, no sleeping mat, no supplies of any kind (sometimes not even a change of clothes) and then wonder why I had a terrible time and be like "camping sucks!".
 I'm doing it right this time...or at least, right-er.

I found an old guy on Craigslist who was selling a Coleman dual flame 2 burner stove that he bought in the early 90s and never used. Came with a Coleman aluminum folding stand that people sell used on eBay for $75+ dollars, I guess they don't make them anymore? Got both for $50!

The nerdiest shit ever is that I bought a folding shovel, folding saw, hatchet, machete, and leatherman before buying our actual tent and sleeping mats...I mean...I had a lot of research to do about those two things!

Obviously, im no big gear head, but you’re spot on with that 2nd shit. On the topic of stoves, although they use disposable canisters, a jetboil or primus, can be a stealth and quick way to heat up water, cook noodles, oats, quinoa etc. idk that id pay a bunch for one, but the one i got kicked down years ago has been nice to have.

Get a book about knot tying and some paracord too. Never know when you need to tie down. Roll of gorilla tape in the supply pack is good too

[skateboardnorth]

Reviving da camping thread.  One of my buddies has started a Youtube channel that is absolutely incredible.  It's packed with a ton of valuable information when it comes to camping and survival.  He's also a genuinely great person and entertaining.  Thought some of you guys might enjoy it.  Right now, it's winter stuff, but he does some cool adventures in the summer time like 2 week long trips going from lake to lake by canoe. 

[Sila]

As much as I've tried, I just don't like camping for longer than a night or two.

It's a shame because I like day hikes and would love to cover more ground over a longer period.

[skateboardnorth]

What do you think has changed?  If I'm in an amazing place, I want to stay as long as possible.  There is a huge chain of islands that we camp on, and it's basically paradise to me.  I could spend weeks going from island to island with our little boats and camping gear. 

[streetmeat]

i fucking hate bushcraft shit. grown men cosplaying survival situations, rarely using deadfall, cutting down trees to make a 'shelter' mostly for youtube/social media clicks.

[GnarAlarm]

i fucking hate bushcraft shit. grown men cosplaying survival situations, rarely using deadfall, cutting down trees to make a 'shelter' mostly for youtube/social media clicks.

I feel you, but I think most experienced bushcrafters make a point to only chop down dead trees or use trees that have already fallen for building material.
What annoys me most are the ones where the guy clearly has a full team of builders just off camera.
Ain't no way homie built the entire fucking Ewok village in 1 month, by himself, with only a hatchet, folding saw, and majestic beard as his tools.

Saved and subscribed, will check it out when I get home!

[skateboardnorth]

i fucking hate bushcraft shit. grown men cosplaying survival situations, rarely using deadfall, cutting down trees to make a 'shelter' mostly for youtube/social media clicks.

I hear ya man.  Most of them are pretty fake and make up dramatic scenarios.  To address cutting down trees, my buddy in this video actually makes a point saying how he only uses one single green tree for his ridgeline because of the strength that is needed for the shelter.  The rest of the trees were dead standing trees from a swamp.  He also advocates for dispersing the camp and not leaving any structures behind.  He's highly respectful of nature.  He never wanted to do Youtube because he felt that it kind of ruins his experiences in nature, but we kept bothering him to do it because he is a natural, and he has a lot of knowledge to share.  This guy goes in the bush for weeks at a time and goes on some of the coolest canoe adventures.  I'm hoping he takes me out on a trip this summer.  I'm not asking you to watch his vids, but I think you would be impressed by his skills and ethics.

I'll add that I have actually met another dude that has an outdoor YouTube channel that is "fake".  Like he's actually out there camping, but he acts like he's hiking wayyyy out into the bush.  Meanwhile, he's using my cousin's property so I know exactly where he is.  One video he was literally 200 feet away from my cousin's house.  He gets a ton of views because he has a really hot wife, and a dog which seems to boost views on youtube.

[skateboardnorth]

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i fucking hate bushcraft shit. grown men cosplaying survival situations, rarely using deadfall, cutting down trees to make a 'shelter' mostly for youtube/social media clicks.

[close]

I feel you, but I think most experienced bushcrafters make a point to only chop down dead trees or use trees that have already fallen for building material.
What annoys me most are the ones where the guy clearly has a full team of builders just off camera.
Ain't no way homie built the entire fucking Ewok village in 1 month, by himself, with only a hatchet, folding saw, and majestic beard as his tools.

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[close]

Saved and subscribed, will check it out when I get home!

  Thanks dude!  I think you'll enjoy it.  He has a wealth of knowledge to share.  The only reason I'm promoting it is because he's genuine, and I love to see a homie do well.

[streetmeat]

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i fucking hate bushcraft shit. grown men cosplaying survival situations, rarely using deadfall, cutting down trees to make a 'shelter' mostly for youtube/social media clicks.

[close]

I hear ya man.  Most of them are pretty fake and make up dramatic scenarios.  To address cutting down trees, my buddy in this video actually makes a point saying how he only uses one single green tree for his ridgeline because of the strength that is needed for the shelter.  The rest of the trees were dead standing trees from a swamp.  He also advocates for dispersing the camp and not leaving any structures behind.  He's highly respectful of nature.  He never wanted to do Youtube because he felt that it kind of ruins his experiences in nature, but we kept bothering him to do it because he is a natural, and he has a lot of knowledge to share.  This guy goes in the bush for weeks at a time and goes on some of the coolest canoe adventures.  I'm hoping he takes me out on a trip this summer.  I'm not asking you to watch his vids, but I think you would be impressed by his skills and ethics.

I'll add that I have actually met another dude that has an outdoor YouTube channel that is "fake".  Like he's actually out there camping, but he acts like he's hiking wayyyy out into the bush.  Meanwhile, he's using my cousin's property so I know exactly where he is.  One video he was literally 200 feet away from my cousin's house.  He gets a ton of views because he has a really hot wife, and a dog which seems to boost views on youtube.

Expand Quote

i fucking hate bushcraft shit. grown men cosplaying survival situations, rarely using deadfall, cutting down trees to make a 'shelter' mostly for youtube/social media clicks.

[close]

I hear ya man.  Most of them are pretty fake and make up dramatic scenarios.  To address cutting down trees, my buddy in this video actually makes a point saying how he only uses one single green tree for his ridgeline because of the strength that is needed for the shelter.  The rest of the trees were dead standing trees from a swamp.  He also advocates for dispersing the camp and not leaving any structures behind.  He's highly respectful of nature.  He never wanted to do Youtube because he felt that it kind of ruins his experiences in nature, but we kept bothering him to do it because he is a natural, and he has a lot of knowledge to share.  This guy goes in the bush for weeks at a time and goes on some of the coolest canoe adventures.  I'm hoping he takes me out on a trip this summer.  I'm not asking you to watch his vids, but I think you would be impressed by his skills and ethics.

I'll add that I have actually met another dude that has an outdoor YouTube channel that is "fake".  Like he's actually out there camping, but he acts like he's hiking wayyyy out into the bush.  Meanwhile, he's using my cousin's property so I know exactly where he is.  One video he was literally 200 feet away from my cousin's house.  He gets a ton of views because he has a really hot wife, and a dog which seems to boost views on youtube.

Not shitting on him specifically, its just the entire modern idea of bushcraft and what comes along with it is so corny. It plays into the 'manly-survivorman' bullshit and the YouTube/social media aspect of it all just screams clickbait. Every video is 'ALONE...IN THE WILDERNESS.' like yeah bro, thats typically how hiking/camping works lol.

[GnarAlarm]

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i fucking hate bushcraft shit. grown men cosplaying survival situations, rarely using deadfall, cutting down trees to make a 'shelter' mostly for youtube/social media clicks.

[close]

I hear ya man.  Most of them are pretty fake and make up dramatic scenarios.  To address cutting down trees, my buddy in this video actually makes a point saying how he only uses one single green tree for his ridgeline because of the strength that is needed for the shelter.  The rest of the trees were dead standing trees from a swamp.  He also advocates for dispersing the camp and not leaving any structures behind.  He's highly respectful of nature.  He never wanted to do Youtube because he felt that it kind of ruins his experiences in nature, but we kept bothering him to do it because he is a natural, and he has a lot of knowledge to share.  This guy goes in the bush for weeks at a time and goes on some of the coolest canoe adventures.  I'm hoping he takes me out on a trip this summer.  I'm not asking you to watch his vids, but I think you would be impressed by his skills and ethics.

I'll add that I have actually met another dude that has an outdoor YouTube channel that is "fake".  Like he's actually out there camping, but he acts like he's hiking wayyyy out into the bush.  Meanwhile, he's using my cousin's property so I know exactly where he is.  One video he was literally 200 feet away from my cousin's house.  He gets a ton of views because he has a really hot wife, and a dog which seems to boost views on youtube.

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Not shitting on him specifically, its just the entire modern idea of bushcraft and what comes along with it is so corny. It plays into the 'manly-survivorman' bullshit and the YouTube/social media aspect of it all just screams clickbait. Every video is 'ALONE...IN THE WILDERNESS.' like yeah bro, thats typically how hiking/camping works lol.

Yeah I don't know why some dudes have to be so extra about it.
Dudes are like "This is SURVIVAL. MAN VS NATURE" and I'm all like "haha I'm in the woods and I have a KNIFE! This is awesome! I'm gonna make a spear!"
Cut to me running through the forest pretending to be a samurai with my crappy handmade spear.

[rothdigga]

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i fucking hate bushcraft shit. grown men cosplaying survival situations, rarely using deadfall, cutting down trees to make a 'shelter' mostly for youtube/social media clicks.

[close]

I hear ya man.  Most of them are pretty fake and make up dramatic scenarios.  To address cutting down trees, my buddy in this video actually makes a point saying how he only uses one single green tree for his ridgeline because of the strength that is needed for the shelter.  The rest of the trees were dead standing trees from a swamp.  He also advocates for dispersing the camp and not leaving any structures behind.  He's highly respectful of nature.  He never wanted to do Youtube because he felt that it kind of ruins his experiences in nature, but we kept bothering him to do it because he is a natural, and he has a lot of knowledge to share.  This guy goes in the bush for weeks at a time and goes on some of the coolest canoe adventures.  I'm hoping he takes me out on a trip this summer.  I'm not asking you to watch his vids, but I think you would be impressed by his skills and ethics.

I'll add that I have actually met another dude that has an outdoor YouTube channel that is "fake".  Like he's actually out there camping, but he acts like he's hiking wayyyy out into the bush.  Meanwhile, he's using my cousin's property so I know exactly where he is.  One video he was literally 200 feet away from my cousin's house.  He gets a ton of views because he has a really hot wife, and a dog which seems to boost views on youtube.

[close]

Expand Quote

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i fucking hate bushcraft shit. grown men cosplaying survival situations, rarely using deadfall, cutting down trees to make a 'shelter' mostly for youtube/social media clicks.

[close]

I hear ya man.  Most of them are pretty fake and make up dramatic scenarios.  To address cutting down trees, my buddy in this video actually makes a point saying how he only uses one single green tree for his ridgeline because of the strength that is needed for the shelter.  The rest of the trees were dead standing trees from a swamp.  He also advocates for dispersing the camp and not leaving any structures behind.  He's highly respectful of nature.  He never wanted to do Youtube because he felt that it kind of ruins his experiences in nature, but we kept bothering him to do it because he is a natural, and he has a lot of knowledge to share.  This guy goes in the bush for weeks at a time and goes on some of the coolest canoe adventures.  I'm hoping he takes me out on a trip this summer.  I'm not asking you to watch his vids, but I think you would be impressed by his skills and ethics.

I'll add that I have actually met another dude that has an outdoor YouTube channel that is "fake".  Like he's actually out there camping, but he acts like he's hiking wayyyy out into the bush.  Meanwhile, he's using my cousin's property so I know exactly where he is.  One video he was literally 200 feet away from my cousin's house.  He gets a ton of views because he has a really hot wife, and a dog which seems to boost views on youtube.

[close]

Not shitting on him specifically, its just the entire modern idea of bushcraft and what comes along with it is so corny. It plays into the 'manly-survivorman' bullshit and the YouTube/social media aspect of it all just screams clickbait. Every video is 'ALONE...IN THE WILDERNESS.' like yeah bro, thats typically how hiking/camping works lol.

When the show ALONE first started airing (maybe a decade ago?) I remember seeing people crash out in like 1-2 days due to "how lonely it was" and thinking how totally insane it was that someone would go do a show like that having not gone solo camping for a week+.  I grew up camping (summers mostly) wherever my dad lived, from NorCal/Oregon border, to washington and eventually Alaska.  We were always in search of the most remote place we could get to on trips so once I was of age to do that myself I jumped at the change for solo trips.  I love going out with my wife or a friend or 2 but if no one is around, a really good long solo trip is so refreshing. 
Some of those "survivor" videos really overdramatize the experience in an odd way.  But I'm also totally aware that's part of the game to draw people into viewing. 

[dunc]

I just hot myself a new car. Its a BYD shark 6 and I can run power off it for days. Camping is luxurious now. I can make espresso coffee , have lights , cook and run a fridge. If the battery runs out of charge the motor in the car acts as a generator.  Been a game changer for family Camping.
Dont think you can get Chinese cars in the States.

[GnarAlarm]

I just hot myself a new car. Its a BYD shark 6 and I can run power off it for days. Camping is luxurious now. I can make espresso coffee , have lights , cook and run a fridge. If the battery runs out of charge the motor in the car acts as a generator.  Been a game changer for family Camping.
Dont think you can get Chinese cars in the States.

Had to google it and god damn that sure is a 'MURICA sized truck! I like my camping to be a little less electronic, but I understand how all that could be really nice if you're camping with a family.

Right now I drive an Acura RSX and my girl has a newer Toyota Corolla. Neither are great for camping, surprisingly the RSX has more storage capacity but it's lowered so we can't take it off road for camping at all.
I've been looking around for something to use specifically for going out on hiking and camping excursions, and it'd be nice to not have to drive the RSX in the winter.
We aren't going full on overlander so I don't think I'd need a big truck or jeep or anything. Just something with good storage capacity, possibly big enough to put an air mattress in back, that can handle light to medium offroading.

Main considerations right now are either a Honda Element or a Subaru Impreza wagon.
Anyone got any recommendations?