Backpack

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June 15, 2010 by Jonsky

The very sleek KOR ONE water bottle was featured in Ironman 2 so there’s a high cool factor there. If you’re backpacking, the slim design makes it fit easily into the side pockets of your backpack. It’s also BPA free.

Check out some of the reviews on this high quality water bottle:

You can get the KOR ONE from Amazon.

October 22, 2009 by Jonsky

Hiking is tough on the knees, especially when you’re carrying a heavy backpack. Even when you’re young, it’s wise to go easy on your knees so that at a later age you can still enjoy hiking.

Thank God for trekking poles. By using these, you take some of the pressure off your legs when you’re walking. They give you a boost when you go uphill, absorb some of the impact as you go downhill and give you a better workout.

Trekking poles also help you establish a rhythm when you hike. Your hike becomes much more efficient when you have rhythm.

The trekking pole is one such important backpacking equipment.

August 11, 2009 by Jonsky

It turns out that weight is not the only concern when carrying a backpack. According to this article, incorrectly fitting a backpack may cause pain in the neck, shoulders, upper back and lower back.

According to a release from the American Chiropractic Association, backpacks are a “leading cause of back and shoulder pain for millions of children and adolescents.”

Find out how to correctly fit a hiking backpack.

July 18, 2009 by Jonsky

Jamie Neale, a gap year student from London, survived 12 days in the hostile Australian bush by making blankets out of tree barks on the freezing winter nights, drinking rainwater from leaves and eating seeds and wild plants.

Police Superintendent, Anthony McWhirter says that it was the “greatest tale of survival that we’ve seen in the mountains.”

After being discharged from hospital, the 19-year-old was offered a cash deal for an interview on Australian TV but the money will go to the people who put in the resources to find him.

This will probably quench the rumor that Neale staged his ordeal for the money. According to McWhirter, there was nothing to suggest that the situation was anything but credible.

Jamie thanks everyone involved for their help in his rescue.

http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/114640/-100-000-TV-deal-for-backpack-boy-Jamie

June 25, 2009 by Jonsky

I wrote an article about The Basic Guide to Survival in the Outdoors but didn’t say much about the survival kit. Lucky for me, the guys are examiner.com saved me the trouble by publishing their list of survival items which can fit into a freezer bag. Below are the items listed in their survival kit:

1. Knife 2. First-aid kit 3. Duct tape 4. Firestarters 5. Tinder 6. Survival blanket 7. Water purifier 8. Water container 9. Whistle 10. Signal mirror 11. 1’x1’ foil square 12. Compass

13. Candy bar

It’s a good thing they emphasized that it’s not meant to replace the ten essentials because the author, Alex Dundas, left out a couple of things from it. But still, first aid is part of the ten essentials and so are knife, duct tape, firestarters, tinder, water purifier or just about all of them.

What going on? Well the ten essentials are what’s inside your pack. This one is meant to be in your pocket so that if you lose your backpack, you still have something to survive on. These are more like spare ten essentials.

The five part series on survival kit is a good read so why don’t you go check it out.

June 23, 2009 by Jonsky

I love to watch the show “Man vs Wild” on discovery channel.  In case you didn’t know it’s a show teaching you how to survive in just about any terrain. What a kid watches on TV he follows and a boy who got separated from his parents in the woods in Daggett County claimed that it saved his life.

Grayson Wynne and his cousin had been hiking back to his family camper with a cousin when he fell behind and strayed onto a different trail. Family members immediately began a search when they found him missing.

It was Saturday and Grayson was found on Sunday and the first sign of him was found Saturday night about 300 yards from the trail the family had been hiking.

Did you notice anything wrong with this picture? While I believe the show helped the boy survive through the night, he could have been found that same night if he stayed put. He left a lot of clues behind just like in the discovery channel show but the best thing to do is stay put. He even left his backpack behind which contains his sleeping bag, snacks and extra jacket.

He spent the night under a log but he was found in good health and spirit.

“Search teams concluded the boy was following the creek based on the layout of items they found and concentrated efforts on that area. Two searchers on horses, Dave Potter and Rusty Burnside of McKinnon, Wyo., found Grayson at around 10 a.m. in a meadow near the stream. He was waving strips he had torn from a yellow rain slicker hoping to get the attention of the helicopter he heard flying overhead.” – Deseret News

June 10, 2009 by Jonsky

Kids love camping in the backyard at least as much as parents do. You can camp in your backyard anytime you want to but the official date for the Great American Backyard Campout is June 27, 2009.

Anyone who wants to go camping in their backyard can register at www.nwf.org  (National Wildlife Federation) even though it’s not exactly at that date.

The reason for the existence of the Great American Backyard Campout is to connect with nature in the hopes that as kids and adults spend more time outside, they’ll want to protect nature and wildlife. Now that’s a noble cause.

While I like to go hiking, not having to carry a backpack and just focus on enjoying the night of camping can sometimes feel like a blessing.

There are no restrictions on how you camp, whether you want to sleep unders the stars in your sleeping bag or with a bivvy or dome tent or whatever. It doesn’t really matter. The important thing is for you and your kids to get outside.

June 4, 2009 by Jonsky

How comfortable a backpack is depends on how well it fits, how it’s packed and how heavy it is.

I don’t know if you noticed this but hiking backpacks come in different sizes and the that is right for you is based on your torso measurement.

Check out the video from REI on how to measure your torso length.

[media:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1l1TsGXydWU]

May 31, 2009 by Jonsky

When I was just starting out hiking and camping I used to pack my sleeping bag loose into the backpack or even tie it on the outside. It took me 3 trips before I started using stuff sacks to store my sleeping bag. These cylindrical shaped nylon, usually waterproof, enclosures protect your bag from unnecessary wear and tear and also from the rain.

Material

Most stuff sacks are made of newer fabrics like coated polyester and ultralight silicone-impregnated nylon.

While the material itself is waterproof, the drawstring closure in most stuff sacks is not so be careful about getting it into water and if you tie your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack make sure you at least cover the drawstring closure with a waterproof material to protect against rain. A plastic bag will do in most cases.

Newer stuff sacks like the eVac Dry Sack from Sea To Summit don’t use drawstring closures but instead you roll the sack down and then close the buckle. This accomplishes two things. First, when you roll the sack down air is pushed out of the base so water can’t get in. Second, it allows you to save both space and weight. The weight saving though is not such a big deal. You only save a little bit of weight but the space saving is much appreciated.

The lightest stuff sacks are made of silicone-impregnated nylon parachute cloth. It can be as light as 0.5 oz or even less. GoLite employs this type of material and they made an improvement to the drawstring closure by adding a collar instead of just a drawstring and flap configuration. Outdoor Research on the other hand uses a good waterproof fabric called Hydroseal. This fabric is tough and can handle rough use but still limp enough to mold itself to the contents of the sack. This stuff sack is available in the drawstring-flap configuration as well as roll closure secured with Velcro bindings.

Compression and Size

Most stuff sack suppliers have some sort of compression model with straps, laces or double drawstrings that reduces the volume by up to half. You can also stuff in your down jacket or parka together with the sleeping bag into the sack. Make sure that yours is big enough for you to easily put in whatever you intend to put in.

Don’t get a small stuff sack just because you think it would save you space because in most cases you’ll just have unused, wasted space in your backpack as a result. Another problem is that even if you can cram your sleeping bag and other stuff into the sack when you’re at home, doing so in less than ideal conditions on an empty stomach with the cold wind biting at you can turn it into a monstrous task. Get one that’s big enough to take its load with extra room to spare, leaving it soft, malleable and easy to stuff. I use Outdoor Research Hydroseal DryComp Sacks but I’m thinking of getting the eVac Dry Sack from Sea to Summit for myself.

Jonsky also writes at hubpages with articles on down sleeping bags, stoves, tents and other camping gear. He is also a writer for http://www.hiking-camping-world.com. Check out the range of down sleeping bags on that site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonsky_Sicuna
http://EzineArticles.com/?Using-Stuff-Sacks-For-Your-Sleeping-Bag&id=1991254

May 28, 2009 by Jonsky

Backpacks are generally categorized into three: frameless, external frame, and internal frame. The main purpose of a frame is to support the backpack and helps to distribute the weight across your whole body, mainly on the hips so that your shoulders are not bearing all the burden.

Frameless Backpacks

This is the simplest and most inexpensive type of backpack you can find. The most basic design consist of one main pocket and connected to a set of shoulder straps. They are more used for general stuff rather than hiking. However, some are suitable for outdoor activities like hiking. Some more advanced versions have a suspension system like waist strap, chest strap and padded shoulders.

External Frame Backpacks

This is an old favorite with backpackers because of its large capacity and strong frame. The frame is very rigid and it supports a sack made of cloth or other materials.

External frames allow for users to carry a heavier weight than a frameless pack could. It also gives the wearer more support and protection and better weight distribution. The frames have been made of wood until about the middle of the twentieth century.

This type of backpack is not very common today and the frames are now made of lightweight metal tubes, often aluminum and sometimes titanium or scandium. A system of straps and pads keep the sack and frame from contacting the body so you get reduced sweatiness.

It is normal practice to strap bulky items such as camping tents, sleeping bags and pads on the frame because some parts of the frame are not occupied by the pack. The main compartment is usually small compared to internal frame backpacks to allow for these bulky items to be strapped.

The problem with external frame backpacks is the center of gravity is very high up and away from the body resulting in instability. Keeping your balance especially when climbing up hills is not an easy task with external frame backpacks.

Users also complain of getting bruises as a result of the uncushioned frame rubbing or hitting against the body. However, external frame backpacks are very durable.

Internal Frame Backpacks

Invented in 1967 by Greg Lowe, the internal frame backpack has replaced external frame backpacks as the standard pack for hikers. Greg Lowe later went on to found Lowepro, a company specializing in backpacks and other carrying solutions for various equipment.

The frame which consists of strips of metal or plastic is integrated into the pack. A system of straps works with the frame to distribute the weight.

An internal frame backpack is fitted closely to the body and therefore the load is more easily controlled and easily predictable. You have more freedom of movement and are ideal for scrambling over rocky surfaces and hiking uphill. However, the close fit presents another problem; poor ventilation and therefore sweatier backs.

Unlike external frame backpacks, there are only a few (if any) lash points for your tent or sleeping bag and there is a limit to the size of whatever you want strapped to the outside of the pack. Fortunately, modern internal frame backpacks have a large capacity so that all of your gear can fit inside.

Check out these internal frame backpacks and bivvies which are great for backpacking because they’re compact, lightweight and easy to set up compared to tents.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonsky_Sicuna
http://EzineArticles.com/?Backpack-Design—The-Three-Types-of-Backpacks&id=2317549

May 27, 2009 by Jonsky

2009 is the year of camping revival some might say and they could be right. With reports flying everywhere about how big and trendy camping is, stores are having a hard time keeping up with demand for camping gear.

There are two types of camping. Wild camping is camping in the outdoors away from civilization and there won’t be any of the facilities in an organized campground. It’s also referred to as technical camping and you’re limited to what you have in your backpack.

The other type of camping is called family camping and backpacking is optional. It’s easier than technical camping and the campgrounds are usually close to lakes and rivers.

The difference between family camping and wild camping is not just about the level of difficulty and location. In wild camping, it is ideal that you have small and lightweight camping equipment. In family camping, people usually arrive in their vehicles so they can pretty much carry everything under the sun. Family campers can also use whatever they have at home as camping gear.

However, they do have at least one thing in common; tents, sleeping bags and camping cookware e.g. camp stoves are the most expensive things they need to have. And because the lighter and smaller the equipment the more expensive it is, wild campers have a bigger bill when they first start out.

For family camping, the biggest considerations for a tent are space and comfort. First it has to at least accomodate the number of people to share the tent with plus one more. In general, the more space the better the comfort.

Cabin tents have nearly vertical walls and high ceilings and often comes with bug-proof netting, large rain flies, ventilation windows and even separate rooms. This type of tent has the best headroom compared to any other type of tent.

Dome tents are smaller but they still have a good amount of headroom. They’re easier to set up and often less expensive than cabin tents. Dome tents also fare better in wind and rain because they have a low profile.

Both types of tents are heavy and bulky and therefore not ideal for backpacking. Solo hikers either go for bivvies, 1 person tents or 2 person tents if they want comfort. Dome tents are less popular with backpackers because they tend to be too heavy.

As for sleeping bags, rectangular ones are more popular with family campers because they have more room to move about in. You can also zip them together to form a double bag.

Technical campers almost always prefer mummy sleeping bags because they’re lighter in general and does a better job in keeping you warm especially if there’s a hood. There are two types of insulation in sleeping bags; down and synthetic. Down sleeping bags are lighter and more effective but it can get too hot if the temperature is not cool enough. Synthetic sleeping bags are heavier and less effective in retaining heat but they keep their insulation properties even when wet and when they do get wet, they dry very easily.

A camping mat is one of the essential camping gear because even if your sleeping bag is effective, you still lose a lot of heat to the cold ground. Family campers like to use inflatable air mattresses along with battery powered pumps. Camping cots are also a popular option.

Backpackers on the other hand love to use self-inflating pads like Therm-a-Rest. They’re lighter and packs very small.

As for camping cookware, family campers can pretty much use whatever they have at home. They often carry coolers filled with their favorite food and drinks. An open fire is better suited for barbeques but it’s still much more easier and practical to use camp stoves for general cooking instead.

Wild campers have to be careful with their camping cookware so as not to carry too much and be a burden. Non-stick pans and pots are essential for easy cleaning. Propane stoves are popular with new wild campers because they’re very easy to use.

May 5, 2009 by Jonsky

A hydration pack is a type of backpack or waistpack that functions as  a hydration system i.e. it has  a reservoir made of rubber or some kind of plastic connected to a hose that allows the user to drink hands-free.

Most hoses in a hydration pack have a bite valve that opens when you bite on it. The reservoir is usually insulated so that cold water stays cold a bit longer in warm weather and prevents it from freezing in cold weather.

Now when you do physical exercises like running, hiking and cycling it is important that you keep yourself hydrated to replace the water you lost through sweat.When you’re dehydrated, your body will slowly start to fail you and you won’t be able to perform at your best.

Most people only drink when they are thirsty. Experts say that when you’re thirsty, your body is already severely dehydrated and to be rehydrated won’t be as easy as simply drinking water.

That’s why sometimes you still feel thirsty even after drinking loads of water.

The right way to keep hydrated is not by drinking loads of water at one time but by frequently taking small sips of water. Studies have shown that people are more likely to do anything when it’s convenient for them and it has been shown that people who use hydration packs are more likely to stay hydrated.

You’re also likely to drink more often when you have a water bottle in your hand but you won’t be able to use your hands for holding trekking poles or for keeping your balance.

The problem with hydration packs is that they tend to bounce when you run or jump rocks. Even though the bounce is minor because the backpack is so small it can still make you aware of it and can be a discomfort.

One hydration pack that can reduce this “bounciness” is the Gregory Diablo Backpack which mimics your body movement through its high tech suspension system that involves elasticized attachment points and dual dynamic straps that connects to where the waist belt and harness interface to the backpack.

Check out the review by Outside Magazine:

• The Gear Junkie Scoop: Gregory Diablo Backpack – Gregory-Diablo – small photo The Diablo costs $59, and there are several nice touches, including internal mesh separator pockets and zippered pouches on the waist belt for quick-grab food or small gear. There’s a “tube management system …

April 6, 2009 by Jonsky

Backpacking is a good way to enjoy your holiday abroad without spending a fortune on the hotel. You learn more about the culture of the country you’re visiting and see the way of life. In other words you are connected to the people and how they live. It’s more than just a vacation, it’s an education.

You get to meet all sorts of people, some unusual and some just like you and me. The experience is a whole lot different than just going to tourist sites. You get to mingle with these people and hear what they have to say. You’d be surprised to know more about a country than you would otherwise.

There are about 100,000 backpackers travelling at any given moment. They’re all over the place but more concentrated in Europe. Other places that are popular with backpackers include Scotland, Holland and India. Some even take a whole year off for backpacking.

Backpacking around the world could be a very fulfilling experience and it could also be life-changing as you learn about each country in a deeper way. You’ll also meet a lot of friends from around the world which could also prove to be useful.

It’s not just for college students who don’t have the money to stay in hotels and do what other tourists do. Even middle-aged professionals like doctors, lawyers are enjoying the way of the backpacker. If you have a passion for travel, then backpacking is the way to go.

When you backpack, you need to take some precautions for your safety. Using an email account, you can scan “store” scans of your passport, visas and credit card numbers. Never take expensive electronics except maybe for a camera especially if the place you’re going to is known for it thieves.

You can also use a concealable money belt for your cash and credit cards. It’s important to note that not everywhere accepts travellers check so don’t count on it.

Internal frame backpacks that doubles as a travelling bag are very helpful.