How Best To Use Dry Ice?

​Many people choose dry ice because it offers the best freezing results. If you want to freeze items, you can rush and get the ice. Know the kind of food you can chill with dry ice. If you will not use food like meat for days, it is not advisable to preserve them with dry ice.

Dry ice does not last very long, and it can boast of negative 109 degrees F that is not up to the freezing temperature. To use this ice on a cooler, you have to replace them after a day. It depends on the quantity of dry ice in your cooler.

When you are arranging the dry ice on the cooler, you can get a better result when you put them on the top of the item and not at the bottom. Do not tighten the cooler with dry ice inside it. Instead, open it a little.

If you want to use it in a cooler, choose the approved coolers. First, vent the cooler. If it is strictly airtight, the cooler may expand.  The danger here is that it could explode.

In choosing the best cooler, consider compatibility. If you want to use your cooler, you have to arrange the ice very well to achieve a maximum result and prevent damage.  The first thing is to add newspapers or blankets to the cooler. It will remain cold for a long. Most importantly, you must ensure that the cooler is full. To achieve the best result, limit empty spaces available inside the cooler. You cannot use all kinds of coolers.  Look for those that are dry ice compatible. There are a lot of them meant for dry ice chilling.

The safest way to use dry ice in a cooler

First, if you want to use dry ice in the cooler, avoid touching it with your bare hand. Always touch it with a glove. Dry ice can burn the way hot item burns. Moreover, this kind of ice even irritates the skin. If you cannot find a glove around, you can approach it with towels or tongs.

Packing dry ice inside the cooler

​If you do not want the item to freeze in the cooler, you can combine it with regular ice. However, if you like to freeze the food, use dry ice alone.

​Here are steps by steps guide on how to arrange dry ice in a cooler.

​First, get good quality dry ice from reputable dealers. It is available in dry ice stores around you.

Second, when you get the ice, insulate it using cardboard, blanket, or newspaper.

You can also place dry ice at the bottom of the cooler. After that, add a layer of insulation that includes cardboard, newspapers, and so on. This for items you want to freeze in the cooler.

Add the items you want to freeze to the cooler after, put more layers of insulation. Finally, place the dry ice on the top of your cooler and close it afterward.

Many campers prefer using dry ice because of the longevity. Moreover, during the hot summer season, dry ice can cool more than regular ice. It can last longer, especially if you know how best to pack and unpack it.

The ice does not melt, which makes it different from conventional that melts over time. Because it does not melt, it does not leave any mess behind like a puddle of water.

If you want to get the best from this kind of ice, how you use it matters. It is recommended you wrap it in a few lays using newspapers, cardboard, or a blanket. Remember that you must always put the dry ice on top of the food or any item you want to chill.

Remember that this ice does not like space. If there are empty spaces in the cooler, do not allow it. Fill them up with newspapers and clothes. When there is no space, it is more effective.

Research shows that the best way to preserve the food is to freeze it before adding dry ice. It makes the ice last longer.

There are two ways to put it in a cooler. It is either you place it at the bottom of the top. You can put it at the bottom and the top, it depends on the quantity available. Instead of not putting it at the top, you can avoid putting it at the bottom.

If you put it at the bottom, it ensures that the gas does not escape from the cooler easily. It lasts longer this way. If you have pets around that are allergic to gas, put it at the bottom since it does escape easily. The only disadvantage is it can turn to gas because of the intense pressure due to weight. Because of this, it is recommended you put them at the top to get the best result.

​Final Verdict

If you are planning for your next camping trip, or any kind of expedition in the summer, you can use dry ice. It lasts longer than regular ice. If you learn how to use it in a cooler, you can achieve a better chilling result. As a beginner, the information above will assist you.

The post How to Use Dry Ice in a Cooler For Camping & Hiking (Step By Step Guideline) appeared first on The Hiking Zone.

To counter this menace, you need to fix some heel slippage in your boots. These are items that are placed to add some friction to the feet and to also prevent you from slipping off unnecessarily when walking, running, hiking or going about your businesses.

How to Fix Heel Slippage in Boots

The procedures below will help you to fix the heel slippage in boots:

Use the Hairspray

Though primarily intended to spruce up your hair, the hairsprays can also be used to make the socks stickier. When used for that purpose, they tend to prevent the heels from slipping off unnecessarily as is the norm and thus expedite your own comfort. Only be sure to use it sparingly as it is not really meant for this purpose.

Make do with a Double-sided Tape

Double-sided tape may also come in handy to your rescue. This one binds the heel of the boot and that of your foot. It is only a temporary measure as you wait for a more permanent solution to come by. Also, observe some fair degree of carefulness as you go about its use as it is prone to damages.

Incorporate a Second Pair of Socks

If you lack any other means, you are advised to incorporate a second pair of socks. This extra pair shall reinforce the friction and the grip you would ordinarily obtain. In the course of doing that, it also wards off the menace of the heel slippage to keep you tight and well comfortable.

Place the shoe heel slip inserts

The shoe heel slip inserts may also serve to fill the spaces that are left in between the boot and the feet. This way, they prevent you from sustaining blisters and the slippage that ordinarily comes along. Only be sure that the one you use is compliant and conforming to the pair you have in mind.

Stash the Heel Grips

Apart from the shoe inserts, the heel grips may also serve the purpose of filling the spaces in between the skin of the boot and the feet. They also absorb sweat and minimize the impacts that are generally felt in the course of walking around from one place to another one.

Wear the Non-slip Socks

You may also consider wearing the non-slip socks as they are pretty great at diminishing the slipperiness and the friction that ordinarily come by. These socks are available in varied shades and sizes. Be sure that the one you pick for the job is appropriately suited for that very role hence.

Prioritize Shoes that have the Non-Slip Insoles Feature

As the first line of defense against this menace, you might have to prioritize those shoes that have the non-slip insole features. This feature is basically an added lining that exists at the back of the inside of your boot. It similarly absorbs impacts not to mention diminishing friction from impacting your feet.

Implement the Shoe Tongue Pads

The shoe tongue pads are those that tend to fill up the vacant spaces and similarly play the role of absorbing shocks and impacts. At the same time, they also add some warmth to the feet and are hence great to use in the harsh cold winter months.

Utilize the Lace Locks

To be able to combat this menace fully, we also suggest that you utilize the lace locks. They basically lock the laces completely to prevent the same from fidgeting or getting too loose when impacting or tackling unforgiving terrains. In doing so, they also give you some confidence to run around smoothly.

Lace your Shoes Appropriately

You need not necessarily acquire too many extras and accessories to be able to have your way. It is indeed possible for you to counter this issue by just lacing your shoes appropriately. By “appropriately,” we mean the laces have to be tight and less likely to loosen even when the shoes fidget when running around.

Maintain your Boots Dry

Boots that are too slippery or wet have the tendency to inflicting this problem. It hence goes that one sure way of combating the heel slippage is to maintain your boots dry and comfortable. Be sure to wash and dry your boots after each use. That way, it will hardly slip off your feet even when attempting something tough.

Alter your Walking Style

In some instances, this issue of the heel slippage arises mainly because of the poor walking style you adopt. Consequently, you should also consider altering your walking style as a way of reversing this trend altogether. Be gentle and kind when trudging your way from one part of the city to another.

Make the right choice of Boots

Apart from altering your walking styles, you should also make the right choice of the boots you put on. Be sure that the one you pick for the job fits your feet and at the same time have the same configuration as the shape of your feet.

Final Verdict

Having exhausted all that you may need to know to combat the menace of heel slippage, we now pass the buck to you to implement the stated provisions. That ought not to be too much of a hassle now. As you may see, these steps are easier to implement and make do with.

Chances are that the steps we have showcased above may not be sufficient for your needs. The best way forward is to carry on from where we have left. Make use of the pieces of information we have showcased above to be able to launch further investigations.

The post How to Fix Heel Slippage In Boots ( Step By Step Guideline) appeared first on The Hiking Zone.

In addition, you need to select the perfect boots, otherwise, your experience will be all painful. Some of the popular brands that you will find in the market include Keen and Merrel types. Looking at these boots in detail, it is possible to determine which one perfectly suits your preferences.

About Keen and Merrel

Keen and Merrel are two of the top quality boots that you will find in the market. Each comprises of a unique design that separates it from the other. It is this uniqueness of the respective boots that enable you to identify which one perfectly fits your preference. The bottom line is that both brands will never fail you when it comes to delivering an enjoyable camping experience.

However, it is imperative to look into the specifics before settling on the shoe of choice. Of the two companies, Merrel is the elder having been established in 1981, and the company has been producing footwear since then. Keen, on the other hand, is relatively new, as it was founded in 2005.

Keen vs. Merrell Comparison

The differences between the two shoe brands are limited. However, there exist some features that are stark different. Therefore, it is imperative to compare the two brands to have a clear picture regarding which one trounces the other regarding the manufacture of hiking boots.

Price

The two shoe brands retail at relatively the same price range, especially if you are shopping from the local shop. However, the difference in prices exists when you purchase the respective boots from online retailers. This is because each retailer has a variety of offers, and therefore depending on the one that you approach, the price range will be variable.

All in all, even while purchasing from online retailers, Merrel hiking boots will sell at approximately $100, which is relatively lower than the retail price of the Keen boots that are comparatively more expensive.

Soles

The differences regarding both shoes on this front are outstanding. The Keen hiking boots employ the unspecified sole technology that gives them high traction and grip. If you are interested in these qualities, a keen hiking boot should be your top choice.

However, you should know that the threads of the Keen hiking boots are known to wear out quickly, and this means that you are likelier to visit the shoe shop that your counterpart, who wears the Merrel brand.

On the other hand, Merrel shoes sport the popular Vibram soles that are common in police and military boots. The good thing about Vibram soles is that they are highly durable and thus will offer you service for an extended period. Therefore, the onus is in you to either choose strong grip and traction or high durability. This solely depends on your personal preferences.

Footbed

If you are more interested in the quality of the footbed, there’s a lot to juggle when choosing between the two hiking shoe brands as they employ different technology. Keen is synonymous with the metatomical footbed that is available in a variety of versions from which you can choose whichever that favors you most. Merrel, on the other end, features the Merrell M-Select FIT type of footbed that is also available in a variety of versions. However, Keen offers more options than Merrel in regard to the footbed types.

Water Resistance

Both brands equal each other in regard to the ability to keep away water from penetrating the inside of the shoe. They are both designed to ensure that water from the surrounding cannot penetrate into the shoe. Also, to improve aeration, the shoe allows the exit of sweat seamlessly from the shoe to the outside, ensuring that the feet stay dry all the time.

Durability

Again, the shoes are a tie regarding durability. Both are designed to last for long, and this explains why they are among the top favorite brands for hikers. They are both constructed using high-quality materials that ensure that their durability is unquestionable. However, Merrel shoes are highly likely to outlast Keen brand, and this is down to the Vibram sole that the former sports which are highly durable.

Comfort

Also, both shoes are comfortable to wear in all sorts of hiking environments. The ability to expel all the moisture that accumulates in the inside while at the same moment repelling the entry of water from the surrounding is an incredible feature that exists in both brands. This property is imperative in guaranteeing comfort to the wearer.

Weight

Splitting between which shoe is heavier than the other is also an arduous task as both are around the same weight bracket of approximately 400grams. Therefore, if weight matters a lot for you, there’s little choice that you can make regarding the two brands as they are so equal in this regard.

Notes: If you need any information about hiking boots Click Here

Other Features of the Keen and Merrell Hiking Shoes

If you are still undecided on which is the better hiking shoe between the two, the following additional key features may aid in your decision making. Other prominent outstanding features of the Merrel hiking shoes include the following:

• Smell control feature that ensures that the smell inside the shoe is maintained by eliminating any moisture that is present.
• Presence of laces to strengthen the grip on the feet.It also features the popular nylon shanks that make the shoe unique from other hiking boots.
• Also features the Merrel air cushions that are designed to aid in aeration inside the shoe.

On the other hand, the other common notable features of the Keen brand include the following:

• A breathable membrane that doesn’t allow the entry of water from the surrounding.
• An odor control to manage the aeration.
• ESS stability shanks that are available in a variety of forms.

Final Verdict

If you are still undecided on the shoe brand that is more superior to the other, you can be forgiven as their features are so similar. Both shoe brands are made of high-quality materials and are also designed to give you the perfect hiking experience that you’ve ever thought about. Both are also made in a manner that ensures that your feet are dry at all times, and this is imperative, especially during hiking sessions that take long hours.

All in all, if you are looking for comfort, Keen should be your first choice option as it is made to deliver on that property. However, regarding durability, Merrel is the go-to kind of hiking boot.

The post Keen Vs Merrell: Which Is Best Hiking Shoes? appeared first on The Hiking Zone.

​It is because of this that you want to know more about the various kinds. Such knowledge indeed will go a long way in enhancing your choice of the right one. We have devoted the entire length and breadth of this article to discuss the many types of knee braces and what each of them of has in store for you.

​Different Types of Knee Braces

There are ​different types of knee braces that are recommended for people with knee pain or those looking for additional support or protection.

​​Prophylactic Brace

This brace is used to prevent injury to the ligaments of the knee. If it was often worn by athletes. This brace will reduce the stress placed on the knee and will protect the joins as well. The brace will help with the range of motion in the knee and help stabilize the knee to prevent injury.

​​Functional Knee Brace

The brace is used to support the knee and is worn by people that previously suffered a knee injury. The brace can be used to reduce the chance of an ACL tear. It will also support the knee if a person has recent ACL surgery.

​Rehabilitative Knee Brace

This brace is used to limit potentially harmful movements that can cause further injury to the knee. This brace is worn to help repair ligament and will support the joins of the knee. It can be worn by people that had knee surgery or those with bad knees to help prevent the need for surgery.

​​Unloader Knee Brace

This brace is designed to support people with osteoarthritis in the knee. The brace supports the knee and does not allow it to bend in the area that is painful. Stress will be taken off the knee so a person can continue to walk around and do the things that they love.

There are several types of knee braces that are recommended for people with knee pain or those looking for additional support or protection.

​Which Knee Braces To Choose?

The choice of the right brace depends largely on your own unique needs. This, in turn, is determined by the configuration of your knees, the severity of the pain, and the kind of therapeutic benefits you want to accrue from the braces altogether.

It is also a good thing to factor your own financial resource endowment since you do not want to dig too deep into your pocket to acquire the right one for your use. Comparing the offers of many dealers and manufacturers will see to it that you spend the least amount of money possible.

​Final Verdict

​You may always count on us to help you make better decisions. If you get stuck along the way, do not hesitate to reach out to us for further assistance. We have helped many before; we will help you and indeed any other person in the future.

The post ​Different Types of Knee Braces appeared first on The Hiking Zone.

One of the most useful skills, by far, is knowing how to improvise an ankle brace out of items found in your rucksack. Ideally, you should be taking some first aid essentials (bandages, antiseptic, medical tape, etc.) with you on every excursion. However, if there comes a time when the only option is a DIY solution, you can make a brace using articles of clothing.

Also Read: Click Here to know more about knee brace for hiking, running,  walking, sports, with Ultimate Guideline.

Ultimate Guideline How To Improvise An Ankle Brace

This guide to treating a lower leg injury outdoors will explain how to improvise an ankle brace.

Creating an Ankle Brace with Medical Tape

If you need to treat an ankle injury sustained outdoors, check for athletic tape, climber’s tape or (wide) medical tape. It should be at least two inches in diameter. To apply, make sure the skin on the injured leg is as clean and dry as possible. Dirt and moisture will make it harder for the tape to stick securely.

If you can move the leg without risk of further injury, gently align the foot and leg in a ninety degree angle (as when standing). It might be easier to keep the leg in this position if it’s pressed against a palm or other flat surface. Place the end of the tape just above the big toe; it should stick above the toe but below the bend in the foot.

Now, wind it under the ball of the foot. Take it under the foot and back out to the other side where it needs to snake across the natural bend in the foot. Finally, wind it around the leg (above the ankle) and secure it tightly at an upward facing angle. It should sit above the ankle but below the calf on the outside of the leg.

Add 3-4 more pieces of tape. They must follow the same line as the first but without sitting directly on top of it. Stretch three more pieces from mid-calf (still on the outside of the leg) to the underside of the foot.

Creating an Ankle Brace with Spare Clothes

If you don’t have any bandages or tape, the next best option is to use an item of spare clothing or a piece of fabric. Blankets, jackets and T-shirts are preferable choices. First, roll your chosen item into a tight tube shape. Again, the injured foot and leg should be in a ninety degree position or as close as possible to it.

Carefully stretch the rolled material across the middle of the foot’s sole. On both sides of the ankle, pull it tight (so it aligns with the leg). If you have any kind of tape or similar adhesive, use it to secure the material by wrapping it around the ball of the foot, base of the ankle and top of the calf. If you don’t have tape, do your best to improvise with whatever is around.

Consider removing your shoelaces and using them to hold the makeshift brace in place. If there’s a chance of broken bones, add a DIY splint. This can be anything that’s long, thin and strong such as a tree branch, hiking pole or climbing tool. Press it against the outside of the injured leg (and hold it there) before securing it in place with the DIY brace.

Knowing How to Respond to Breaks and Sprains

In a true emergency, you’ve got to put your trust in whatever equipment happens to be available. While neither of these braces is ideal for a serious ankle or lower leg break, they may be the best option you have at the time. If the injury appears to be a ​ankle sprain, and you have the choice to pick between a tape brace and a ‘T-shirt’ brace, use the tape.

If you suspect a break, it’s best to keep the ankle and lower leg area as still as possible. You may find this easier to do with a DIY splint (as detailed in the section above). Use one or two lengths of a rigid, hard material (such as a stick), held against the leg, to force the ankle to remain motionless.

To distinguish between a break and a sprain, use the doctor approved Ottawa Ankle Rules. There are two questions. Can the injured party stand up and/or put weight on the ankle? Does the injured party feel pain when lightly touched a) on the rounded ankle bone, on the outside of the leg b) just below the rounded ankle bone, on the inside of the leg or c) along the bottom edge of the foot, in alignment with the little toe?

If the injured party CAN stand on the ankle and is largely pain free, they probably have a sprain. If possible, tape up the injury and seek medical treatment.

The post How To Improvise An Ankle Brace – Ultimate ​Guideline appeared first on The Hiking Zone.

Down sleeping bags are a popular choice because they provide more insulation than nylon versions while weighing less. They require more care, however, so they’re best for those who camp out regularly and need high grade outdoor equipment. If you’re planning to purchase one, you should learn how to wash a down sleeping bag.

​This guide will show you how to wash your down sleeping bag and keep it cosy for longer.

How to Machine Wash

Credit: Wilderness Mastery

You should only attempt to machine wash a down sleeping bag if you have access to a large (over 10kg), front loading appliance. Otherwise, it must be hand washed. Before putting your bag in the machine, complete a rinse cycle while the drum is empty. This will remove potentially abrasive soap residues left over from previous washes.

If the sleeping bag has a waterproof shell, turn it fully inside out. Fasten up all the zips and Velcro straps. Place it inside the machine. Add the recommended amount of technical detergent – any laundry cleaner specifically designed for outdoor fabrics. Do not use standard household detergent or softener. You risk causing damage to the delicate down interior.

Wash your sleeping bag on a delicate cycle (no higher than 30°). Make sure the wash ends with or is followed by a robust rinse cycle. All suds and soap residues must be gone before you take it out for drying. To check, press down gently on the wet fabric. It’s ready for drying if no soap suds appear. Repeat the rinse cycle as many times as needed.

The sleeping bag will feel heavy when removed but try not to drag or pull too hard on the fabric. This might warp the down and prevent it from returning to its original shape. Carry (don’t drag) it to a nearby tumble dryer if you plan to use one. Adding two tennis balls to the dryer drum will stop the downy material from clumping.

When you remove your sleeping bag from the dryer, you may find some of the down has formed clumps. You can work these out with your hands. Shake the bag vigorously (only when already dry). Use your fingers to gently pull apart any lumps of material on the inside.

​How to Hand Wash

Credit: Wilderness Mastery

This section will explain how to wash your down sleeping bag if you don’t have access to a large, front loading appliance. The next best thing is your bathtub. Fill the tub with lukewarm water after ensuring it is squeaky clean and soap free. Add your technical cleaner (specialist detergent) directly to the water. Swirl it around to evenly distribute.

Carefully submerge your down sleeping bag in the water. Leave to soak for 60-90 minutes. Then, empty out the water and refill the bath with clean, non-soapy water. The goal is now to remove all soap and suds from the bag. So, you must repeatedly drain and refill the bathtub until no more soap comes out of it.

Take care not to wring or squeeze the down too tightly. It’s best to lightly rub the sleeping bag to push out leftover suds. If you don’t mind getting your toes wet, you can get in the bath and slowly walk up and down the bag. This is the best way to speed up rinsing without causing damage. Finally, drain the tub and walk up and down the bag a final time to remove as much water as possible.

Tumbling drying is the best option but, if this is not possible, place your sleeping bag in a well ventilated area. Spread it out flatly and evenly; water will collect in any sections left to sag or hang below the rest. At the same time, it must stay elevated (all sides exposed to the air), so we recommend a broad, freestanding airing rack or two racks pushed together.

​The Big Benefits of Using a Down Sleeping Bag

It’s true that down sleeping bags require more care than nylon versions. The super insulating, impeccably cosy inner material is sensitive to heat and moisture and must be washed in a particular manner. However, the benefits are worthwhile if you camp out regularly or camp outdoors in cold conditions.

​Final Verdict

​Due to their ability to trap hot air, down sleeping bags are prized for being both warm and lightweight. It means you can guarantee a restful night’s sleep without compromising on practicality, portability or convenience. If you are planning to buy a down bag, as opposed to a synthetic one, we strongly recommend you pick a product that has been waterproofed.

The post How To Wash A Down Sleeping Bag – Ultimate Guide appeared first on The Hiking Zone.

Step By Step Guide Line

How To Choose The Best Waterproof Tent

Check The Seams

One of the most common places for leaks to appear is in the seams of the tent. A truly waterproof tent, or at least the best, will have sealed or taped seams. When seams are stitched together, the needles leave tiny little holes that water can seep through. If there is no sealant or taping over them, they could easily leak.

Welded Floors

Although this is not absolutely necessary for a tent to be waterproof, the best rainproof tents will have welded floors. Ideally, they will also be raised slightly off of the ground to prevent rain water or other kinds of moisture from coming up through the bottom of the tent.

Certified Waterproof

When a tent manufacturer claims that their tent is waterproof, read on through the specifications to learn what about the tent makes it waterproof. Does it come with a rain fly? Has the fabric on the outside of the tent been treated with a waterproofing solution? These are the important details that you must check out and if the manufacturer does not provide this information about the construction of the tent, then it might be a good idea to look at a product that does offer a full and detailed description.

Product Reviews

One of the best ways to find out if a tent is as waterproof as the manufacturer claims is to check the product reviews left by previous customers. People who have purchased the tents you’re considering and who have given their feedback can let you in on the pros and the cons. Consumers are quick to let you know if a tent leaks or if it holds up well in a rain storm and keeps them dry. Always remember to check the consumer reviews.

Exterior and Interior/Seams and Stitching

The exterior of the tent deals with its attractiveness as well as its functionality. Look for a tent that has some mesh materials or at least built in mesh windows for the ventilation aspect. Tents can become stuffy and it’s important to have areas that allow for ample air flow.

On the interior, also look for important features like welded floor bottoms and taped seams to keep unwanted moisture outside of the tent. Also think about organization, storage and other useful features. Built in pockets, light hangers and vestibules for storing your gear can come in handy. Some tents feature separate rooms and others come with screen rooms for more living space and getting in out of the elements during the day.

Choose The Right Size

When it comes time for sleeping arrangements, you’ll want to have plenty of room for everyone to sleep comfortably. Make sure that the tent you choose has enough room and can be configured the right way to accommodate each camper and their gear.

Weight

The weight of the tent can make a big difference if you’re a hiker or backpacker. The best waterproof tent are under 6 pounds, and preferably will weight under 4 pound and fold up into a very compact size.

Final Verdict

There are many tent brands and models on the market today. Whether you’re looking for a camping tent, a backpacking tent, a rainproof tent or a great family tent, start by making a list of the size, configuration and features that are the most important to you. Keep in mind that the best tent is the one that most closely meets your needs and suits your personal tastes and preferences.

Tent Related Articles

• Best Tent Under $100
• Best Tent Under $200
• Best 10 Person Tent
• Best Tent Seam Sealer
• How To Clean A Tent
• Camping Gear & Gadgets

The post How To Choose The Best Waterproof Tent appeared first on The Hiking Zone.

Whether you prefer to slum it or ‘glamp’ on your outdoor adventures, it’s important to be prepared. For most, wild cooking is a big part of the camping experience. Hence, why some dining products are designed for outdoor use. Campfire cooking is very different from the way we do things at home. So, it makes sense for the cutlery to be different too.

​In this article, we ask, what is the difference between regular and camping eating utensils? What are the benefits of using outdoor cutlery and do you really need it?

​Why the Biggest Difference Is Convenience

Camping utensils don’t differ dramatically in their appearance. There’s no need to improve on the shape of a fork. It works in the kitchen. It works outdoors. The same goes for spoons, knives, ladles, peelers and other types of cutlery. You’ll find the biggest differences in their size and storage as both features have a direct impact on suitability and ease of use.

For instance, many camping utensils come with shorter handles or handles which fold to increase portability. Some are sold in ‘dining’ sets – knife, fork, spoon – and come linked together with a chain or cord. It’s just another way to increase practicality. If you’ve only got one of each utensil, you can’t afford to lose anything. Using a cord, chain or key ring is an easy way to keep all the important bits together.

​If you want to max out on convenience, consider multi-use tools. These are devices which merge together two or more eating utensils. One popular example is the spork: a single utensil with fork tines and a rounded spoon ‘bowl.’ These ‘mash up’ products are a big hit with campers because they save space and cut down on equipment.

​The Benefits of Compact Case Cutlery

We also noticed a tendency for camping cutlery to come with portable carry cases, bags and pouches. Again, this keeps dinner sets together and prevents them from getting lost and jumbled up at the bottom of a hiking rucksack. There’s also the issue of cleanliness to think about; storing cutlery in a separate case keeps it away from potential contaminants.

​This is particularly important if you’re camping outdoors for an extended period or staying in a muddy environment. In fact, just the normal movement of items in and out of a rucksack can easily spread dirt, grime and bacteria. It’s always best to carry your camping cutlery in its own protected bag or case.

​Finding the Right Material for Your Camping Gear

It’s true that some people use plastic cutlery when camping. This may be tolerable for quick and casual excursions but expect trouble as soon as you introduce any form of heat to the equation. You can’t use plastic utensils anywhere near a fire so they’re almost useless for eating anything but precooked, unheated snacks.

Aluminium and stainless steel, on the other hand, are great choices for those who want a reliable set of camping utensils to use regularly. Stainless steel is by far the superior option. It is sturdier, easier to clean and more resistant to rust than aluminium. However, it is more expensive. If you want to save money, aluminium is a reasonably hardwearing choice.

​If you’re keen to invest in long term quality, we recommend titanium camping utensils. Titanium is extremely strong while also being lighter to carry than stainless steel. It’s favoured by experienced hikers and climbers because it can take a lot of stress and strain without sustaining damage. The downside is it’s the most expensive option of the three.

​Your Choice of Camping Cutlery Really Does Matter

Casual campers may think of outdoors cutlery as a bit of an afterthought. If you’ve got food, you’re surviving, right? There’s got to be a hundred ways to eat it (even if many of them are with your hands). Yet, there’s a good reason experienced outdoorsmen take the time to pick out high quality utensils.

​Whether you’re camping outdoors for one night or twelve, your body is important – treating it well is a necessity, not a choice. So, make your meals special. Take care of the creature comforts and your body will take care of you. Together, you’ll be ready for some epic adventures. Remember, when browsing for high quality camping utensils, make durability, portability and cleanliness your priorities.

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​Backpack rain covers, for instance, are inexpensive and simple. They’re little more than a waterproof bag designed to slip over a backpack or rucksack. Yet, they can make a huge difference to the comfort of those who regularly hike, hunt, camp or climb. When you’re out in the wilds, amidst Mother Nature, it pays to be prepared.

​So, let’s take a closer look at why and when to use a backpack rain cover. Should you buy one? Will it enhance your outdoor experiences? What type of rain cover is compatible with your backpack? We’ll answer these questions and more.

​The Benefits of Using a Backpack Rain Cover

Even if you’ve currently got a water resistant backpack, it might be worth considering a backpack rain cover. They’re particularly useful for anybody who spends time outdoors in areas with unpredictable climates. While it’s true water resistant packs can hold off light to moderate rain, they’re not designed to be fully waterproof.

​If you get caught in a thunderstorm or torrential downpour, water resistance becomes redundant. You need full waterproofing to keep a backpack and its contents dry. Having a backpack rain cover to hand means you can adapt to changing weather. Just pull out the cover, slip it over your pack and stay dry all day.

Backpack rain covers are coated with a waterproof layer. Water touches it and gets instantly repelled. The likelihood of your gear and equipment getting wet is significantly reduced. You can carry clothing, snacks, portable devices, camping tools and more with confidence.

​How, Why and When to Use a Backpack Rain Cover

It’s very simple. If it looks like rain is due, take the cover out of its ‘carry sack,’ unfold it and put your whole backpack inside it. Your pack is now waterproof. Most covers come with a drawstring top. So, don’t forget to pull the top closed and stop water from reaching the backpack or its contents.

​You could, of course, set out with the waterproof cover already in place. This is advisable if you’ve looked at weather forecasts and know rain is likely. In fact, most outdoor excursions could, feasibly, come with a risk of rain, so putting a cover on your pack before setting off is just another example of being prepared.

​If you plan to buy a rain cover for your backpack, make sure it’s the correct size. Find out the dimensions of your pack and look for a cover that’s compatible. Rain covers come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. You should have no problem finding a good fit, whether you choose one from the same or a different brand.

​Some Other Considerations to Think About

It’s worth noting many backpack rain covers come in vibrant colours like yellow, green, red and orange. There are others in more muted styles (black, grey, navy blue, etc.) but we recommend you buy one in a neon shade. Outdoor gear is not coloured with these ‘loud’ shades for no reason. It serves an important purpose.

​If you’re out hiking, camping or climbing and you have an accident, bright colours make you more visible to rescuers and other people on the trails. In an emergency, it could mean the difference between a quick evacuation and a long wait for help. Even though a neon yellow backpack cover might be fashionable. It could save your life.

​Plus, there are bonus benefits to carrying a backpack cover on outdoor excursions. You could, for example, use it as a dry surface for sitting when there are no other options. If the ground is wet, it makes a handy ‘staging’ surface for packing and unpacking gear. Don’t put pegs, containers, bottles or climbing apparatus on damp ground. Place them on your cover.

​Final Verdict

​We recommend buying a backpack rain cover even if you only go on outdoor excursions a handful of times per year. They’re cheap to buy, widely available and extremely practical. Backpack covers are so light they’re practically weightless but, in any case, most come with their own mini carrying pouch.

​Clip this onto the outside of your pack and, when the weather turns, it’s easy to grab and open up into a waterproof protector. For the cost of a few lunches, you can ensure your outdoor gear never gets damp or soggy. We think it’s worth picking one up before your next big adventure. Just remember to keep it close to hand in case of a sudden downpour.

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