44 Posts are tagged with: survival_gear 1 2 3 Previous Next

Into the Wild: Outdoor Movies, "Cliffhanger"

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Mar 2, 2009 by Momie T.

Looking for a new adventure? Get into the wild with outdoor movies. Movies with intense nature scenes can invoke that adventurous spirit and inspire us to explore new territory. Ever heard of the movie Cliffhanger with Sylvester Stallone?

In the movie Cliffhanger, Stallone's character does some serious mountain climbing to evade the villains. He uses amazing rock climbing skills to leap from cliff to cliff with ease. I'm not saying you should be leaping cliffs here, but perhaps you could try a little rock climbing. Whether you're normally the adventurous type or not, it could be interesting, as well as fun and exhilarating to learn a new skill such as rock climbing. The best bet for beginners is to take a class. Rock climbing is not a sport that you test out by yourself, and even if you're skilled, you'll still want to go in a group for safety purposes.

Just as in the movie, be sure you have the right gear. One thing that Stallone always has while rock climbing in Cliffhanger are trusty carabiners. Without carabiners, rock climbing would be quite dangerous, especially at the extremely high elevations Stallone faced in the movie. Key locking carabiners will help to secure a hold, making the climb safer. To get a good foothold, you also will want to wear the right footwear. Depending on the terrain, there will be a variety of choices. There are rock climbing shoes, as well as crampons.

Also needed, of course, will be a strong harness. Carabiners attach to these to secure the hold to the rocks. Other tools and accessories include an axe, a helmet, camming devices and gloves. The camming devices, along with the harness and carabiners, will help secure your position during climbing. Stability is very important in rock climbing.

Rock climbing can be quite an interesting to hobby to take on and is also a great way to exercise in a less mundane way than those daily workouts. Just remember to always be safe and follow the instructions of a professional. Also be sure to check with a doctor before starting or stopping any physical activities.

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Survival Gear: Preparing for Yellowstone National Park

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Feb 24, 2009 by Sabah K.

Yellowstone National Park continues to attract millions of avid hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts each year. If you're one of the many hiker paying respects Old Faithful this season, make sure you're well-prepared for the adventure.

Here are a few essentials for making it through your Yellowstone trail like a pro:

Layer it up
Wearing layers is essential when hiking or camping in Yellowstone's temperate climate. Many areas of the park experience rain showers and chilly winds, especially during the autumn and winter seasons. Make sure you're well prepared for inclement weather with wool socks, moisture-wicking pants and shirts, an insulated vest, a wool beanie and a lightweight puffy jacket for any evening excursions on the itinerary.

Don't get Stuck in the mud
The trails are usually very wet and muddy at the beginning of the year; make sure you're wearing comfortable hiking boots that provide plenty of ankle support and will prevent your toes from getting wet. You may need trekking poles to make it across some of the bogs and marshes on the more challenging trails, so map out your route and factor in weather conditions well beforehand.

Pack up that First Aid Kit
Whether you're putting together your own or picking up a pre-made kit, make sure you're well prepared to manage insect bites, cuts, bruises and small wounds. While you won't have many rocky boulders to conquer on the beginner's trails in Yellowstone, you might find yourself forging through forests, thermal springs and canyons. Wrap up those wounds and treat insect bites in a flash with basic supplies stocked in your first aid kit.

Cook Smart to Avoid Bear Attacks
When you're setting up camp in Bear Country, make sure you're doing everything you can to avoid a bear attack. Many hikers and campers encounter bears in Yellowstone because they're not prepared; leaving food unattended at the campsite or cooking and storing food in open areas will leave a scented trail that attracts bears day and night. Use an efficient cooking and food heating system for your meals to make that food prep and cleanup is a cinch.

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Survival of the Fittest: Add a GPS

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Feb 17, 2009 by Steve Thompson

I know that many survivalists prefer to head out into the wilderness with nothing more high tech than a digital watch. However, even the most talented and intelligent survivalists sometimes run astray of their path, and a GPS system can avoid catastrophe in such situations.

In other words, GPS might save your life if you throw one into your pack along with your map, compass, knife, food stuffs and other gear. In fact, some survivalists won't leave home without this handy device.

The great thing about GPS for survivalists is that you can use it only when you absolutely have to. If you never encounter a situation where your survival depends on knowing where the heck you are, leave the gadget in your pack and pretend you don't even have it.

When you're buying a GPS device, however, there are a few things survivalists should keep in mind. Simply picking the first one off the shelf is a mistake, particularly if you will only be using your GPS device for outdoor wilderness training.

First, your GPS system should be small and easy to carry. When you're trekking through the wilderness, the last thing you want is more weight, and a smaller device will be more accessible in an emergency.

You'll also want a GPS system that is waterproof. Not only might you find yourself accidentally falling into a lake or stream, but rain and other forms of precipitation will ruin a non-water-proof gadget.

Depending on where you go for survivalist excursions, hiking, trekking and other activities, you might want to choose a GPS device that allows you to store points or locations along your route. This will help you stay on track throughout your journey, especially if it is taking you through unknown territory.

And finally, don't replace your compass and map with a GPS device. Yes, GPS can make survival easier, but there are some places where it won't be helpful. Ravines, trenches, ridges and hollows are a few locations where GPS doesn't always work, so make sure you have backup equipment.

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Survival Gear: Be Prepared for Winter Driving!

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Feb 10, 2009 by Sabah K.

Outdoor enthusiasts aren't the only ones in need of a disaster preparedness survival kit. Driving across wintery terrain in a car, truck, SUV or snowmobile may lead you to hazardous road conditions that leave you stranded for several hours. When you're battling those icy roads and brutal winter temperatures this season, make sure your car or vehicle is well stocked with some basic survival gear:

Medical Supplies
If you survive an accident or have a last-minute emergency to manage, a first aid kit can hold you over until you can find some professional help. Pack a simple first aid kit supply bag in the backseat of the car or vehicle for easy access in case of an emergency.

Food Supply
Being stranded on icy roads may mean you go without food for several hours. Being hungry can reduce the ability to make sound decisions and make it hard to stay focused and warm. Make sure you have at least one thermos or flask filled with hot soup or foodstuffs so you can feed your brain and body in the case of an emergency.

Blanket or Sleeping Bag
If you're stuck without heat for several hours, you have to find a way to stay warm. A thermal blanket or sleeping bag will keep those toes and hands plenty warm when temperatures drop, so you'll need to drape yourself in a warm covering until help arrives at the scene. Just roll this up and throw it in the backseat or trunk; this is just as important for a camping trip as it is for a long road trip across snowy terrain!

Water
Fill up a water flask with water that won't freeze on you during your excursion. You'll need an ample supply of water to stay well hydrated for several hours on the road, so plan to store at least 1-2 gallons of water in the vehicle in case of an emergency.

Light Source
Headlamps and flashlights can help you navigate your path if you get a flat tire or find yourself in unknown territory. Just pack some light gear with fully charged batteries before you hit the road as an extra safety measure.

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Survival Gear: Trek Adventures in the Yukon

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Feb 3, 2009 by Sabah K.

If you're venturing into Canada to discover the beauty and majesty of Yukon territory, days of trekking and camping may be part of the trip's itinerary. The Yukon territories are brimming with adventure, which make them an ideal place to take in the wilderness and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

You'll find dozens of hiking and backpacking treks around the Yukon trails, and some even have relics from the Klondike Gold Rush. No matter how much backcountry experience you have, you'll need to pack for survival as you trek through the valleys and mountains. Stock up on these survival basics to get you through Yukon territory:

Compass - make the most of your adventure and stick to the trails with a compass. This simple tool will keep you on the right track day or night and save you from losing focus on the trek.

Weather navigator - while the temperatures and climate remain fairly steady throughout the seasons in Yukon territory, you may encounter storms and inclement weather. Keep track of the weather with the Brunton Nomad V2 Pro; it features a built-in barometer and also gives direction readings when it becomes impossible to see the trail ahead of you.

Handheld lantern - you'll need a lantern to guide the way when the sun disappears from view, and the Black Diamond Apollo Lantern will help you stay on course. Pick up some rechargeable batteries and an extra battery pack for longer trips.

Medical kit - treat those scrapes and bruises with bandages and antibacterial spray to avoid infection. You're likely to get a few scars and bruises on your trip, so pack the Ultralight Adventure Medical Kit to manage any trauma or wounds on the trip. The kit also includes a splinter picker, antihistamine and a complete wound irrigation system - a must for those long days trekking through the forests and caves.

*Sleeping bag*s - when you're settling in for an overnight stay in the Yukon, stay warm and toasty with an insulated sleeping bag. Temperatures can drop below freezing each night during the Fall and Winter season, so you'll need a durable and well insulated bag to keep you warm. ThePhantom sleeping bags are one of several baffle-construction bags that will let you snooze in comfort.

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Survival Gear: Adventure Medical Kits

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Jan 27, 2009 by Rica

Being prepared sometimes makes the difference between surviving and not surviving. "Saving for a rainy day," quite simply refers to being prepared for a bad situation when it occurs. Whether one is camping, biking, hiking or doing other outdoor sports, it is imperative that a survival gear kit go along with the athlete or weekend warrior.

If looking for a basic survival kit, a top recommendation is theAdventure Medical Kit with Paddlers. This is a very versatile bag, which includes basic survival items as well as some repair gear. Some of the essentials included in the Adventure Medical Kit with Paddlers include Nitrile gloves, infectious bag control, a two-person emergency blanket, wound irrigation system, storm waterproof matches, Aquaseal urethane adhesive, a guide to wilderness and travel medicine, an emergency pamphlet, wound cover strips, bandages, wound care medication, several oral medications, paddlers and more. The Adventure Medical Kit with Paddlers is a must have essential for the outdoor person including athletes adventurers. The kit of survival gear is a great buy at $54.

If you are looking for a smaller kit which contains survival gear an excellent choice is the Adventure Medical Kit with Ultralite Paddlers. This unique kit weighs only 10 ounces and is loaded with great survival gear including: Ibuprofen, Moleskin dressing, Antihistamine, Nitrile gloves, first aid and life threatening emergency instructions, a guide to the wilderness, bandages, gauze, adhesive fabric bandage butterfly clips, antibiotic ointment, Tincture of Benzoin Topical Solution, swabs, safety pins, survival gear for repairing things and much more. This is the ideal survival gear for a weekend getaway, a hike or to even keep in the trunk of a car in case of emergencies. The bag measures approximately 8.5" x 5.25" x 3.5" and weighs approximately 10 pounds. The Adventure Medical Kit with Ultralite Paddlers survival gear retails for approximately $38.

Owning survival gear is a part of being prepared in case of emergencies and increasing one's confidence by influencing coping skills as a benefit of preparedness.

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Survival Gear: Surving The Amazon Basin

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Jan 20, 2009 by Sabah K.

The Amazon basin is famous for its untamed trails, unmatched terrain and incredible views of the lush rainforest and rivers. The birds, flora and fauna that live in the basin are ready to welcome you to the ancient forests and trails that are sure to take your breath away. However, Mother Nature can be less than forgiving on your rainforest hike so you'll need to turn to a safety kit that contains all the essentials to weather the storm. From waterproof clothing to first aid kits, here's what you'll need to survive on that tropical trail:

First aid kit
You'll need an effective solution for managing cuts, scrapes and bruises along the trail so you can press on like a true rainforest warrior. Make sure your first aid kit contains antibacterial gel, cotton swabs, alcohol and other basics to clean up any wounds and protect your skin in rougher conditions.

Water Purifier
Staying well hydrated in the humid climate is essential for survival; don't give yourself a chance to become dehydrated as you venture into balmy territory. A water purifier and water pack will help you stay well stocked with fresh water and may even deliver the boost of energy you need to finish your trail.

Emergency Snacks
If you get stuck in the middle of a hurricane or tropical storm, you'll need some food to make it through the day. Pack some basic snacks that won't melt or dissolve in the high heat. Trail mix, cereal bars, instant oatmeal and canned meals are a few must-have foods for your Amazon adventure.

Lighting Gear
When the sun disappears from the Amazon rainforest, you'll need a way to navigate the tropical terrain. Your instincts will serve as your guide for most of the trail, but you'll need the help of a lantern or flashlight to make it through the trail. Make sure you're well equipped with batteries and a backup light source if you're planning a multi-night camp or hike through the rainforest.

Waterproof Clothing
A light parka or waterproof jacket will protect you from intermittent rain showers and keep you dry and comfortable for the long night ahead. Make sure you have an emergency blanket or parka wrapped up tight in your pack as an extra safety measure.

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Survival Gear: Snowshoeing in Ontario

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Jan 13, 2009 by Sabah K.

Ontario is one of the world's top snowshoeing destinations, a great place to explore the local wilderness and catch a glimpse of wild animals along your trek. While snowshoeing is a hobby sport for some, it's a survival necessity for others; if you're setting out on an Ontario camping adventure, the only way to get from Point A to Point B is by strapping on a pair of snowshoes and navigating your way through the wilderness. In addition to a quality pair of snowshoes, you'll need some extra gear to survive the slippery slopes. Make sure you're well-prepared for the weather and the activities of the day with:

Plenty of Layers
From down parkas to thermal shirts and pants, you'll need to layer up with at least 2-3 pieces of clothing to trap in the heat. Be prepared for a random snowstorm or a few hours trapped in a snow bank with the some insulated clothing and protect yourself from frostbite and brutal temperatures after sundown. Look for lightweight materials that trap in the heat so you're not weighed down during a snowshoeing trek.

Stowaway Cooking Pot
If you're planning an overnight stay by pitching a tent in snowy quarters, look forward to a hot meal with the help of a versatile cooking pot. These pots heat up quickly and seal in the heat for a late-night snack if you need it. They're large enough to carry food for two and will easily slip into your backpack when you're on the go.

Hydration Pack
It's very easy to get dehydrated without realizing it on those cold-weather trails, so a backpack that's hydration-compatible can help you stock up on the H20 without it turning to ice. The Cyberpack from Columbia is a versatile, lightweight pack designed with an extra water bottle pocket and foam padding for extra comfort. It's large enough to hold the essentials for any snowshoeing adventure and protect your gear from harsh weather.

Snowshoeing in Ontario or other regions around Canada is an exhilarating experience; pack the right gear to make the most of your adventure on the slippery slopes.

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Survival Gear: Ice Fishing

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Dec 30, 2008 by Sabah K.

If you're anxious to get out onto the lake this winter to embrace ice fishing season, make sure you're braving the icy tundra with the right gear. One of the most important safety measures for any ice fishing adventure is to take along a companion fishing enthusiast; if one of you does slip under the ice, you'll have help nearby. You'll also need to wear special clothing and layer up with a down jacket (or two) so you can settle in for a full day on the ice and make the most of your ice fishing experience. Here's what you'll need to survive the brutal weather and slick surroundings:

Layer up with a Down Parka
Pack yourself into a Patagonia Down Parkato trap in as much heat as possible while you sit on the icy banks of your favorite lake. You'll want to layer up underneath with a flannel shirt, thermal underwear and a sweater for extra warmth and comfort. Any down jacket will help you trap in heat and keep you warm and toasty all day long.

Insulated Boots
Pick up a pair of rugged, industrial-strength boots so you don't have to worry about frostbite nipping at your toes. A pair of boots made with extra grip and down insulation will protect your feet during those long treks across the lake; the North Face Nuptse boots are designed with all of these features and are also ergonomically designed for optimal comfort.

Self-heating Thermos
If you're spending more than a few hours out on the ice, you'll need to make time for a hot meal. Soup and other canned goods are the best match for your outdoor adventure, and you can enjoy a hot meal with a heated thermos. Just light up the burner base and heat up your favorite soup or drink for a nourishing meal in the middle of your trip.

When you're hitting the ice for a day or weekend of ice fishing events, make sure you're well prepared to battle the snow and ice with the right gear. Down jackets and boots, along with insulated accessories will help you survive the tundra as you patiently wait for your next catch.

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Survival Gear: Exploring the Desert by Night

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Dec 16, 2008 by Sabah K.

If an adventure in the desert isn't appealing to your weekend warrior, a small tweak in the schedule may be all you need to turn into an eager desert beaver. While desert trekking and hiking across sandy dunes by day is a guaranteed killer workout and a chance to take in breathtaking views, waiting until sundown presents an entirely new opportunity to put your survival skills to the test.

Exploring the desert by night demands some extra gear and a well-planned route to get you through the challenging trail. Make sure you're heading out on your nighttime trek with these survival basics:

#1: Headlamps. Unless you're taking along some Bond-inspired night vision goggles, you'll need a reliable headlamp to cover the sandy turf like a pro. Go for the hands-free variety so you can use your hands to keep your pack in place and carry your water bottle with ease.

#2: Water bottle. When the sun disappears from view and you're left with cooler temperatures, you still need to guzzle that H2O; it will keep your mind fresh and your senses as sharp as a panther on the prowl. Make sure you're lugging an extra-large water bottle to reduce the need for refills so you'll always have some crisp and cool water by your side.

#3: Light blanket. If it's time to make a rest stop between dunes and you're body's yearning for a quick nap, enjoy a light snooze inside a weatherproof blanket. Keep it light so you're not responsible for hauling extra weight in your pack, and pick something large so it can easily be turned into a pseudo-sleeping bag.

#4: Protective eye goggles. You may be treated to a sandstorm during your hike, so make sure you're prepared for this gift from nature with a sturdy pair of goggles. Choose a larger pair that will act as a shield against the pelting sand and debris.

#5: Weatherproof boots. A pair of lightweight hiking boots is all you really need to set yourself on course for your nighttime trek, so choose boots that fit snugly but won't limit your ankle's range of motion. Even though you won't be doing a lot of trail hiking over a nighttime course, you still need a pair of boots with a strong grip and insulation to protect you from the elements.

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Survival Gear: The Canadian Rockies

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Dec 9, 2008 by Sabah K.

One of Canada's most well-known mountain ranges is ready to put your hiking, climbing and survival skills to the test. The Canadian Rockies are the ultimate challenge for avid rock climbers. This mountain range boasts snow banks, icy turf, challenging trails and brutal temperatures year round. Some of the most developed climbing areas are right around Calgary, and you can head off to the Ghost River, Canmore or Lake Louise for your fair share of an amazing alpine adventure.

You'll need a survival plan to trek along this challenging region like a pro, so make sure you're well-prepared with the following basics for survival:

MIOX Purifier - It's easy to forget about hydration when you're battling cold temperatures and trekking through snowy territory, but you'll need a reliable hydration pack to keep up with your water intake throughout the trip. Pick up the MIOX Purifier, a lightweight and versatile purifier that will clean up any untreated water in a snap.

Petzl Headlamp - A reliable headlamp will help you navigate those coves and caves on your trail and keep you on track as you head to the mountaintop. Just strap this headlamp in place as soon as the sun goes down so you can maintain good form throughout your evening's climb. The Petzl headlamp has extra features such as red LED lighting for extra night vision benefits.

North Face Down Jacket - Layer up with fleece and down to trap in as much heat as possible on your outdoor adventure. The North Face Jacket is a compressible, down jacket with a soft hood and plenty of insulation power for those days and nights when temperatures drop. Just add a pair of mittens or gloves to your ensemble and you'll be well-prepared for inclement weather.

The Canadian Rockies are a force to be reckoned with, a challenge that very few climbers undertake without practice, perseverance and - most importantly - a lot of courage. Brave the Rockies like a pro by packing the right gear and venture off to see some of the world's most breathtaking sights and sounds.

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Survival Gear: An Arctic Expedition

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Nov 25, 2008 by Sabah K.

If winter has you traversing the great outdoors in search of an exhilarating and new expedition, you may soon set your sights on trip to the Arctic tundra. The frozen dessert is a place to explore untouched lands, catch a glimpse of native wildlife and breathe in the fresh (really fresh) winter air. If you can survive an Arctic expedition, you'll be joining the courageous few who battled subzero winter temperatures and trekked through snowy banks, which are like no other place on earth. Ready to put your Arctic survival skills to the test? Here's what you'll need to explore the tundra like a pro:

1. Trekking poles. Unless you're wearing a pair of super boots that allow you to forge your way through hills and mountainous snow banks, you'll need a sturdy set of trekking poles to help you navigate the trail. Lightweight trekking poles will help you climb, maneuver and explore those slippery slopes with ease, and trekking poles can be folded and stashed easily into your pack when needed.

2. Insulated sleeping bag. Not any old sleeping bag will do when you're exploring the tundra, so make sure yours is designed with double or triple layers of insulation and has extra-tight padding to keep you well tucked in for your overnight stay in the Arctic. Sleeping bags designed with a hood attachment will keep that heat trapped in during those brutal nights, and any self-heating padding will ensure you're warm and toasty enough to get a good night's rest.

3. Temperature-resistant water filter. Making sure you're well-hydrated during your trip to the Arctic can be challenging, especially when battling cold winds and icy temperatures is at the top of your to-do list. Still, you'll need to stay well-hydrated to maintain strength and keep up with the challenging adventure ahead. A water filter that fits neatly into your pack will give you an endless supply of fresh water so you're always well-stocked on the essentials.

Heading out to bone-chilling territory isn't for every outdoor enthusiast, but if you're courageous enough to brave the Arctic and complete a trail, you'll need these essentials to survive the challenge. Pack up for your adventure with all of these survival basics for an exhilarating -- and safe -- winter getaway.

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Survival Gear: Get Ready for the Hunt

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Nov 18, 2008 by Sabah K.

When hunting season is underway, you might be tempted to trek out to new territory and spend a few nights in the great outdoors. A hunting expedition can put your endurance, stamina and concentration to the test, and roughing it during inclement weather requires packing up some survival gear essentials so you can track down your prey like a pro.

Whether you're hunting game in the forest or tracking down deer in the country, you'll need some basic gear to get through the night safe and sound. Here's what you need for a successful hunt:

Keep those feet well-prepared for hunting mode with a pair of insulated boots. Rugged, lace-up boots are designed with several layers of insulation and extra protection for almost any type of weather. You'll need the extra layers of insulation for snowy days in the forest or country roads, so toughen up with a pair of rugged shoes and thick socks as you trek along your trail.

You'll also need to layer up with fleece and insulated outerwear to ward off those cooler temperatures, day and night. Make sure you're decked out in at least one thick fleece jacket, heavy fatigue pants and a puffy jacket that will give you an extra layer of warmth when temperatures hit rock bottom.

When it's time to call it a day and hit the campsite for a good night's rest, a thermal sleeping bag will help you get through the night with ease. Look for 'chrysalis'-style bags designed with a super-tight construction and extra padding to help seal in the heat. These sleeping bags will keep you warm and toasty on any fall or winter evening and shield you from bugs and insects that might be lurking around your camping territory.

Finally, you'll need a basic sport utility kit filled with some basic tools and a first aid kit for unforeseen emergencies. The Gerber Sport Utility Kit is a lightweight and versatile kit filled with a flashlight, back pack ax, a compact folding spade and first-aid basics; when you're spending a few days and nights in the great outdoors, you'll need these by your side to handle minor cuts and scrapes.

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Survival Gear: Rainforest Camping Survival Guide

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Nov 11, 2008 by Sabah K.

While hiking trips in the Rockies and overnight stays at nature trails in the Midwest offer plenty of opportunity to bond with the outdoors, the colder climate calls for padding up with layers and staying inside the tent for most of the trip.

Camping in an exotic rainforest offers a completely new experience for the avid nature lover: a chance to trek over rough terrain, catch a glimpse of indigenous species and take in a breath of very humid air. Rainforest camping survival is no easy affair, but you can make it through those hot and humid days with the right gear.

Get a head start on the trail with a lightweight and versatile backpack. The CamelBak H.O.S.S. is an expandable pack that can hold several water bottles, a change of clothes, your food stash and other essentials for your trip. This pack is also designed with a reservoir that has an extra-large mouth opening; you can fill it up with that much-needed H2O and haul it along on that multi-hour trek across the rainforest.

In addition to packing extra water bottles and storing water in your pack, you'll need a cooling reservoir to replenish water levels after a day or two of chugging down your stock. The Katadyn Hiker Pro Microfilter lets you fill up on water fresh from the rainforest without worrying about your health; the lightweight filter can process up to 300 gallons of water and generate nearly a quart of fresh water per minute. Taking along a water filter is an absolute necessity for desert trekking and multi-day rainforest hikes, and most filters can adapt to all types of water bottles for easy refilling.

Getting a good night's sleep inside a sleeping bag seems like "Mission Impossible" when temperatures continue to stay around record-high levels after sunset. However, a lightweight sleeping pad can help you keep your cool during those hot and muggy, air-conditioning-free nights. The Big Agnes Air Core pad is a lightweight pad that can be inflated within minutes. The pad provides a layer of comfort and relaxation after a hard day of trekking.

Heading off on a rainforest oasis trail can be an exciting adventure, but you need to take along the basic survival gear to get through that tropical climate like a pro.

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Survival Gear: Camping in the Backwoods

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Nov 4, 2008 by Sabah K.

A backwoods adventure is usually a family tradition, a typical camping trip for those who live in the upper Midwest and mountainous regions of the U.S., but for the first-time visitor who ventures into mountain territory, the trip can be more like a test of survival. If you're not used to subzero temperatures while camping and facing mountain lions and deer on your hiking trail, the smell of pine trees and fresh mountain air will be the last thing on your mind on your backwoods adventure.

Whether you're camping near the alpine lakes or hiking through miles of mountain trails, you'll need to be well-prepared for the trip into enchanting backwoods territory with some basic survival gear. Here are a few must-haves for your alpine excursion:

A well-insulated tent is a top priority for that chilly climate, and you'll need something that will keep nature at bay on those long and cold nights. The North Face Trailhead tent is a roomy and comfortable tent designed with water-resistant materials and an easy pitching process; it's a six-person tent that will keep bugs and small animals out of your living quarters and allow you to enjoy a restful night's sleep.

A medical kit is an absolute must on any camping or hiking adventure, and the backwoods are even more of an accident-prone venue. You run the risk of running into semi-poisonous plants, bugs and even small animals lurking around the forests. You'll need to protect yourself with bandages, antiseptic and splinter removal tools to get through the adventure safely and in good health.

If you're heading out on a fall or winter day, you might not make it to the campsite by sundown. Gearing up with a headlamp will help you stay on course and get to your final destination with ease. Look forward to a hands-free hike across your trail with an adjustable headlamp that delivers high-beam lighting right where you need it.

If you're a first timer on the backwoods trail, partner up with a local camping service provider or instructor to get some survival training before you head out on your own. Many backwoods survival adventure providers offer training in remote areas, and will even provide transport and rental camping accessory for your excursion. Still, you'll need to load up on some essential gear to enjoy a safe and exciting trip into backwoods territory; pack up these essentials to navigate your way through that trail and make the most of the experience.

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