Pictures of My Trip to Harrisville State Park: Scenes from Site #66 and Site #67
Have you dreamed of securing a Michigan campsite that's right on the beach? Do you crave breathtaking scenery, crashing waves and spacious campsites that can accommodate large campers or multiple tents? Harrisville State Park delivers all of these things! As a person who is used to tent camping in the deep wilderness, I must admit it was a treat to have access to clean bathrooms, hot showers and electrical supply boxes at every campsite.
The Special Things I Brought on My Trip
This sturdy popup tent takes the hassle out of setting up camp
Interior view of my Gazelle tent
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My husband always insisted upon carrying a $500 tent known for 25 years worth of rigorous field testing in Alaska. He scoffed at popup tents and teased me for wanting to streamline our extensive setup routine. We were both shocked to find that this large popup provides excellent protection against the driving rain and accommodates a queen sized air mattress with plenty of room to stash backpacks and storage drawers. As of this writing, the Gazelle is the only popup tent to receive an overall five star rating on Amazon.That's because most popup tents are junk.They're too small for comfort, they leak when it rains and the faulty zippers are infuriating! The Gazelle is truly different.The moment you touch the quality fabric and handle the sturdy zippers, you'll know it's heads and tails above those cheap popup tents parents buy for their kids to play in the backyard.This is a genuine family tent with plenty of space for multiple beds and ample head room for tall men to stand up straight. The roof is 6.5 feet tall. The T4 model pictured at left is meant to accommodate four people. Four single sized beds would easily fit into the shelter, but if you choose to carry a queen sized bed, only two single sized beds could be worked into the remaining space. The Gazelle is not really meant to be a super sized family tent, but one couple with two kids would be perfectly comfortable inside. For those interested in more space, the Gazelle makes a larger model with an included vestibule.
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This extra heavy duty tarp keeps my tent clean and damage free
I wouldn't dream of setting a clean tent directly upon the muddy ground! In addition to protecting my shelter from dirt, a heavy duty tarp ensures that little twigs and stones won't begin to poke holes in the fabric, thus shortening the lifespan of my investment. This is absolutely the thickest tarp I've ever handled. When the weather is cold, I use a second heavy duty tarp inside my tent to insulate the floor. It works like a charm!
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This shade cloth keeps my tent 20 degrees cooler on hot days
If you've never heard of aluminet shade cloth, now is the time to get acquainted! This magical reflective fabric can be draped right over your tent to reflect 80% of the sun's light and heat away from you and back out into the universe. It comes in a variety of sizes for large and small structures and includes a nice bungee system to secure the covering in place. It's also great for covering plants, pet cages and vehicles. Greenhouse owners attest that this fabric takes temperatures down by 20 degrees!
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This double high air mattress stays cool on hot nights
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This tri folding foam mattress stays super warm on cold nights
There are some very specific reasons why I carry a tri-folding mattress in addition to an air bed.
Be Sure to Order the Right Size: Think twice before ordering a full or twin sized folding mattress! I loved my first Milliard mattress so much that I ended up buying a smaller and more convenient version that's easier to transport. The single sized mattress is only 4 inches thick but no less comfortable. I provided a photo to show how much space you can save by going with the single mattress as opposed to the twin. |
This eight pound blanket is warmer than a thermal sleeping bag!
I was tired of bundling myself inside thermal sleeping bags that restrict movement and make me feel like a mummy wrapped in tight bandages. This luxurious eight-pound blanket is softer than a baby's behind and gives me the freedom to cuddle my husband or roll away from him when I need to spread out.
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This cooling quilt is my favorite for hot summer nights
I love that this beach style quilt matches both of my favorite tents! No matter what type of shelter I choose to bring, I can create a nice "glamping" vibe wherever I go. This lightweight quilt remains cool to the touch on hot nights. I was also pleased to find that it folds down nice and flat for easy transport.
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Washable throw pillow covers make me feel like I'm glamping
As a side sleeper, I find it much easier to relax when I place a throw pillow between my knees to keep my back in alignment. These washable throw pillow covers are one of the best purchases I've made in the last few years. Never again will I have to discard decorative pillows simply because they've become too dusty or musty for comfort. When my decorative pillows need to be refreshed, I simply removed the covers and toss them in the laundry!
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Flameless candles are so much prettier than lanterns!
Although I'd never leave for camp without a couple plastic waterproof lanterns for extreme conditions, I find that battery operated candles add so much more ambiance! Not only do they illuminate my tent as well as any lantern, they produce a soft, flickering glow that contributes a sense of comfort and luxury.
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Fake eucalyptus can be spray painted to match any setup
Storage drawers make me feel like I have real furniture!
I was tired of stooping to the ground to search through endless camp bags. A storage unit helps provide easy access to the items I use most. Since plastic drawer units aren't known for stability, I apply a long continuous strip of clear waterproof tape across the top of the unit, down the sides and under the bottom. This helps hold the unit together when I carry it from place to place. When I 'm not camping, I fill the drawers with old socks, t-shirts, shorts and underwear. It's an easy way to stay packed for camping all year round!
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This sturdy cookware storage table has telescoping legs
Camping in luxury requires the ability to prepare high quality meals wherever you go! I'm so crazy about this cooking storage table that I devoted an entire blog to it. (See Photos.) I used to stuff all of my cookware into a gym bag that was awkward to pack and carry. I was constantly bending to the ground to look for specific items, which put a lot of stress on my back. Now, I keep all of my camping cookware in my storage table year round. Sturdy handles on either side of the unit help me transport my entire camp kitchen easily. I keep the roll top locked into place so that I can use the roll top storage compartment for longer cooking utensils. To build an instant kitchen, I simply lift the unit from my car and pull out the telescoping legs! This organizer would also make a great dresser and vanity table within a tent.
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This nonstick grill pan has a folding handle!
I value this pan above all others in my camp cookware collection. Let me tell you why it's the PERFECT camping pan. 1.) Because of the folding handle, this full size 11-inch pan fits perfectly into a single Camp Chef storage bag, leaving tons of room to stack other pots/pans on top. 2.) The nonstick surface is PFOA free.That means no harmful toxins in your food. Old school Teflon and aluminum pans are dangerous. Get them out of your collection! 3.) This pan is so much lighter than cast iron grill pans. It won't add a lot of unnecessary weight to your carrying bag or Camp Chef storage unit. 4.) You don't have to season this pan. It works just like the Teflon you're used to, but without the harmful PFOA. 5.) This pan doesn't lose its nonstick capabilities over time. 6.) The bottom of this pan is covered with a large round aluminum pad, making it supremely conductive and resistant to physical damage from camp stoves, but I wouldn't use it over an open fire. I like to keep my best cookware looking new.
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This charcoal grill is so compact and easy to carry
This light, compact design is much easier to pack than kettle style charcoal grills. I originally ordered a popup propane grill that stands at a comfortable cooking height, but the 50 pound monster was more complicated than it looked in videos and very difficult to shove into my loaded vehicle. When you find yourself wrestling with heavy metal contraptions in the heat, that's not a vacation. It's the opposite of glamping!
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This carbon steel griddle allows me to cook like I'm at home
I don't feel like I'm on "vacation" if I can't make eggs, pancakes and bacon for everyone! This 10 by 16 inch carbon steel griddle fits perfectly over my Weber "Go Anywhere" grill, filling it out from corner to corner. I can fry six pieces of french toast at once or cook up a whole package of bacon. It cleans easily with plain water and a nylon scrub sponge. It won't rust as easily as cast iron, but you should keep it dry nonetheless. I don't bother to season this pan in the oven like I would season cast iron, but I do add oil or butter before cooking eggs and pancakes. Treat it well and it should last a lifetime!
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The best stainless steel cookware for open fire cooking
This Stansport stainless steel nesting set is simply thicker and more durable than nesting sets I've bought in the past, including the Stanley Base Camp Adventure set. In fact, this $50 set is even better than the expensive stainless steel pots I use in my home kitchen. If open fire cooking is your thing, rest assured that these pans will stand up to any cooking scenario in the home or on the trail.
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These heavy duty telescoping roasting sticks won't break!
This inexpensive rolling cooler keeps my food cold for 5 days!
Before my trip, I placed several frozen bottles of water at the bottom of my cooler. I then added two packages of frozen hamburger, frozen chicken breasts, frozen vegetables and frozen pierogies. Last but not least, I added a generous layer of ice cubes at the top. By the end of day three, I still had several ice cubes swimming in melted water. By day four, I still had ice cold water. By day five, the water was still cold enough to keep the meat chilled. Never have I used a cooler that keeps perishable foods cold for so long! This Coleman is my favorite for many more reasons.
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This chair never sags or tips because it's rated for 400 pounds
Camp chairs are known for saggy seats and the tendency to tip or wobble. With heavy duty steel construction, this camping chair locks into place and supports up to 400 pounds. Even if you weigh far less, a chair's maximum capacity indicates how long it will last and how well it will withstand abuse from relatives who like to plop into chairs.
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This seat cushion makes me feel like I'm sitting in an easy chair
There are many fine seat cushions on the market, but this one is different for three reasons. 1. It's made with gel infused foam so that it won't flatten or bottom out like cushions made of standard memory foam. 2. It has a washable, water resistant cover that won't get soaked if you leave it out in the rain. 3. The rectangular design makes it wider than most seat cushions. Unlike other portable cushions, it fills my king camp chair from corner to corner.
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This battery operated fan generates strong breezes in my tent
I have a growing collection of battery operated cooling fans, but the adjustable base sets this one apart from the rest. It's stronger than most models, and it doesn't tip as easily as other models made by the same manufacturer. When relaxing outside the tent, I set this fan on the ground near my camp chair and tilt the head upward to create a breeze that sweeps over my entire body. In addition to cooling me down, the breeze helps blow mosquitoes away! SEE MY TOP TEN TENT COOLING TIPS.
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This thing runs my laptop, curling iron and sleep apnea machine!
We don't need televisions or Smart phones, but we can't be comfortable without a sleep apnea machine and portable fan. We originally purchased a Suaoki generator for my husband's sleep apnea machine, but we quickly found that it didn't last the entire night and wasn't powerful enough to run other electronic devices at the same time. Most indoor generators are rated at 250 watts, but this one boasts a whopping 500 watt capacity. I can plug in just about any item I like! This device can be charged from a wall outlet, car cigarette light port or solar panel. With so many ways to juice up, I never find myself without electricity.
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These inexpensive lanterns still work when wet or frozen!
Perhaps you already know about these "As Seen on TV" lanterns that are proven to keep working when frozen into a block of ice. I was skeptical about those claims, so I went to YouTube and found videos of happy customers who dropped these lanterns in water and put them in the freezer. I haven't tried the freezer trick, but I can tell you that these are the brightest lanterns I've ever owned, and they really do keep working in the driving rain. Modern technology is amazing! In the past, I've paid more than double this amount for non waterproof lanterns that weren't as bright.
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My spray system for quick wilderness bathing is quite effective
Witch Hazel Bundle Pack
Pure Peppermint Oil
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I don't care how dirty or sweaty you feel. You'll be cool as a cucumber after misting your body with a solution of witch hazel and peppermint oil. Even your underarms will smell fresh because both products kill odor-causing bacteria. (For intimate areas, use plain witch hazel, as peppermint may burn.)
Here are some more compelling reasons to carry Witch Hazel in spray bottles:
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A solar shower is great for quick rinsing
These shampoo bars have oils that kill parasites and germs
Regular shampoo is fine at home, but after swimming in the lake, I like a nice shampoo bar loaded with parasite killing oils like coconut, tea tree and peppermint. Since these shampoo bars are free of harsh sulfates, they don't fade my hair color! These handy bars can also be used as soap when there's no room to carry multiple items. If you're staying at a campsite without public bathroom facilities, a nice portable shower will help you rinse your hair and body more quickly, but if you don't have such a contraption, you can simply dump a gallon of water over your head.
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Conditioner tubes pack better than bottles
Kill river germs with extra strength tea tree body wash
This wonderful organic product was created for bacterial, fungal and parasitic skin conditions, including athletes foot, eczema, ringworm, jock itch and nail fungus. It's also great for sanitizing skin after swimming in lakes, ponds and rivers. Ingredients include Tea tree, Jojoba, Coconut, Rosemary, Olive, Oregano, Peppermint, Aloe and Eucalyptus Oils. There are no preservatives, thickeners or detergents. The formula also contains vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and E to soothe itchy or inflamed skin.
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You're not "glamping" if your'e still using a bucket toilet
I don't always camp at populated sites with bathroom facilities. For deep wilderness adventures, I love this extra durable folding toilet that's rated for 650 pounds. Even if you don't intend to put that much weight on it, a higher weight rating translates to greater durability over time, especially if you have a large family with multiple users and abusers! Trust me when I say that this portable system is MUCH more sanitary than some of the community restrooms I've seen at campgrounds! Older campers with sore backs and knees will appreciate the opportunity to sit comfortably with no worries about tipping. Use this toilet with the included commode bucket or place the toilet over a hole in the ground. Features: 1.) Large and durable 14 x 17 inch deep seat with lid. 2.) Padded armrests 3.) 12-qt. commode bucket with carry handle, cover and splash shield. 4.) Measures 33 1/2" w. at the base. 5) Assembles in 3 easy steps with no tools.
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This organic kitty litter eliminates odors like no other
I first learned about this blockbuster organic product in an editor's choice review published by USA Today.The deal is that it controls odor better than chemicals without the negative health effects. It's a great way to save money versus buying expensive commode liners filled with harmful chemical clumping materials. This clay cat litter is uniquely formulated combining heavy non tracking granules with medium grain. The result is an excellent clumping litter that prevents moisture from reaching the bottom of the litter box (or portable toilet) while providing a clump that will not break apart. SOME TIPS: I prefer to use small garbage bags as commode liners because they're less expensive. If you run out of commode liners on a long wilderness trip, you can remove the waste bucket and position your toilet over a hole in the ground. Scoop kitty litter over your waste each time you eliminate.This will prevent odors from attracting bugs. At the end of your trip, simply fill the hole with dirt to hide your mess. No harm done. It's all biodegradable! If find that this system is quite sanitary and definitely less stinky than using a cheap bucket style camp toilet.
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This easy popup toilet tent delivers much needed privacy
This large rolling bag can be converted to a backpack
This bag makes camping easy for so many reasons! 1.) There's a pullout handle that allows me roll the backpack when I get tired of carrying it. 2.) It can double as a hiking backpack if I reduce the weight by removing extra clothing. 3.) It stands up vertically by itself and never tips over! That saves me from bending to the floor to rummage through my things. 4.) The main chamber is one large compartment, which helps prevent clothing from wrinkling. 5.) There's an extra storage compartment under the hood. It's a great place for stashing socks, bras and underwear.
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You won't believe how much stuff fits into this rolling backpack!
The best organic pesticides for treating campsites
Orange Oil Concentrate
Cedar Oil Concentrate
Inexpensive Portable Sprayer
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Take it from someone who has been in the pest control industry for ten years. You're not "glamping" if you spend your precious vacation worrying about various diseases that can be contracted from fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. With a cheap portable sprayer, it's possible to kill and repel a wide variety of critters that would otherwise ruin your trip. The whole process of spraying a campsite takes only a few minutes!
Which Scents Last Longer? Many different oils will kill fleas and repel mosquitoes, but you should consider the evaporation rate of various oils. In aromatherapy, a "top note" is the first note you'll smell in a perfume blend. It comes out fighting but fades quickly. A "base note" is the lingering essence you smell when the top note is long gone. Common Top Notes: Orange, lemongrass, citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, sage, thyme and spearmint. Common Base Notes: Cedar, clove, patchouli, frankincense, sandalwood My Personal Favorites: Cedar is my top favorite for outstanding residual effects that last for weeks. Orange is my favorite scent, and it's much cheaper to buy in containers large enough to spray yards. If you're camping on a budget, go for orange oil. The effects of the treatment will easily last the weekend. If you're going for yard treatment at home, choose cedar or make your own blend of orange and cedar. For residual affects that last for MONTHS, spread cedar granules. All liquids evaporate eventually, but granules will give off a new burst of pest controlling aromas each time it rains. Avoid Scents that Attract Bees: Bees are attracted to plants such as lavender, spearmint, oregano, peppermint, thyme, lemongrass and sage. Don't saturate your campsite with oils that have the potential to attract large numbers of bees to the area. You could end up with much bigger problems than the mosquitoes you were trying to repel. |
This five-person blowup boat did well against the crashing waves
One look at Lake Huron on a windy day can set your soul on fire. I was hesitant to brave the water in a blowup boat, but my crazy husband convinced me that we could handle it. For the first time in my life, I discovered what surfers must feel like when they brave the ocean! If you're tackling an expansive lake filled with waves, be prepared to get wet because the waves will definitely crash over the sides of the boat. Using this boat on a calm inland lake is a far different experience. On calm days, we bring a portable radios, floating coolers and picnic lunches. We were about to invest in a real aluminum boat when we made the decision to go with this $120 contraption. I may still buy a real boat one day. Until then, it's good to know that my blowup boat can handle aggressive waters.
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This life jacket works very well, and it's a great bargain!
I was skeptical about buying the least expensive life jackets on Amazon, but I found them to be more than adequate. The larger size fits my six-foot-tall, 300 pound husband just fine. We tested these while swimming in turbulent waters, and they did a good job of holding us up. I've found that there's simply no reason to spend a small fortune on fancy life vests! Sometimes, the basic item is the best item.
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This mosquito suit gives me 100% protection on the water
Gone are the days when I doused myself in unhealthy chemicals before hitting the river. This bug net jacket protects me better than any questionable chemical concoction on the market. I love that I can use the attached hood when I need it and let it drape down my back when I don't. Tip: These suits run incredibly large. Get a jacket that's two sizes smaller than the size you might expect to wear. TOP TEN MOSQUITO CONTROL TIPS.
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A nice roof bag helps me to carry all this stuff!
I'm normally able to fit most of my camping gear into the back of my Dodge Durango, but the new boat and water accessories set me over the edge. I didn't know what to expect from a roof bag, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well this bag held up against heavy rain storms. All of my gear stayed completely dry, and nothing was damaged in transit.
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My Most Crucial Emergency Survival Items
I don't always camp at heavily populated sites with bathroom facilities, internet access, concession stands and pre-cut wood for sale. For deep wilderness adventures, I wouldn't dare be caught without the following items.
A basic first aid kit
A basic first aid kit helps to cover many bases, but I chose to build my own first aid kit because there were so many crucial items missing from all of the standard kits online. For example, I like to carry things like activated charcoal for food poisoning and kaolin clay to stop severe wounds from bleeding. For a peek inside my first aid kit, visit my First Aid Checklist.
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Activated charcoal can save you from food or chemical poisoning
Activated charcoal is routinely administered in hospitals for food poisoning, chemical poisoning and drug overdose. When possible, choose charcoal derived from coconut shells versus hardwood. The absorption power is greater. Don’t use charcoal for benzo overdose. When in doubt, call U.S. Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for guidelines. Dosages will vary according to an individual’s weight. I like to transfer my charcoal to small screw-top jars that can be stashed in first aid kits, backpacks and boating bags.
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Kaolin clay stops severe wounds from bleeding
The choice is yours. Spend $13 on a wound clotting sponge impregnated with kaolin clay or buy a whole pound of kaolin clay for $10. Simply store the clay in a clean salt shaker and sprinkle it onto the affected area after cleaning and drying your wound. Apply direct pressure with a cotton pad or clean cloth. Note: Kaolin clay is normally used for facials and body purification. It's valued by salons around the world for its ability to pull toxins from skin. Since the clay has a shelf life of three years, you can use your leftover supplies for facials.
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I transfer powdered supplies to salt shakers and attach labels
An emergency water filter is vital for deep wilderness trips
An advanced water filter is CRUCIAL if you like to hike or enjoy car trips to remote places without access to clean water. The Sawyer Water Filtration system is the most powerful travel filter on the market. It removes 99.99999% of all bacteria, including salmonella, cholera, and E.coli. It also removes 99.9999% of all protozoa like giardia and cryptosporidium. You'll never waste money on cartridges because this single filter can purify up to 100,000 gallons. A simple flush with the included syringe will keep it clean.
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The best organic water purifying agent and natural antibiotic
Grapefruit seed extract has long been prized as an emergency water purifying agent, but it's also commonly used to fight respiratory infections, ear infections and antibiotic resistant urinary tract infections. All over the world, GSE is used for killing salmonella, E.Coli, staph, strep, parasites, viruses and fungi, including Candida. Health enthusiasts use grapefruit seed extract as a daily supplement to kill disease causing microbes. Print this guide to learn how to use GSE for various ailments
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This fire starter is designed to be much easier to use
It's important to bring lighters to camp, but survivalism is all about carrying backup fire making tools that will always work when traditional lighters get wet or run out of fuel. This fire starter is far less annoying than most. I love the thumb shaped handle that enhances my grip as I strike. My last fire starter had a thin metal scraper that cut into my thumb and forefinger. Good thing I was only practicing! In times of true emergency, the last thing I would need is a new cut or callus to prevent me from chopping wood or skinning fish.
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These windproof, waterproof matches never fail
This knife meets all of my criteria for an excellent survival knife
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This tactical hammer has 18 pullout tools!
I found this gem in the "As Seen on TV" aisle in Walmart. I had planned to store this nifty survival tool in my backpack with my other emergency supplies, but I kept taking it out for various reasons! My husband carries a Swiss Army knife, but he's more likely to go looking for my pullout tools than his own.
Included Tools: Axe, hammer, flat rip pliers, pipe grip pliers, wire cutter, straight knife, bottle opener, chisel, wrench (6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 10mm), serrated blade, small flathead screwdriver, nail file, saw blade, fish hook remover, Phillips screwdriver. |
This premium quality hatchet is forged in once piece
Do yourself a favor. Don't buy cheap hatchets with heads that can pop off. This premium quality hatchet is forged in one piece. At $34, it's a steal. I started my survival collection with a hatchet from my local hardware store. It was decent, but for an extra $10, I was able to order one of the most durable striking tools on the market today. The curved handle allows me to strike with more force, and the head feels far more secure.
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This durable cloth sleep sack operates like a Mylar blanket
This metallic cloth sleep sack is unique because the inner material reflects up to 90% of your body heat back to you, adding additional warmth to sleeping bags. Unlike thin disposable Mylar blankets, the hard-wearing thermal fabric resists rips and tears. I bought this item to add to my emergency survival bag. I never expected to need it! On a frigid winter morning when temperatures plummeted below zero, my furnace went out, leaving me to shiver in my own bed. Thankfully, I had this wonderful product in my survival bag. I could feel the heat building around my body immediately. In just a few minutes, I was warm enough to go back to sleep. Ten minutes later, I woke up sweating. The effect is almost like sleeping in a sauna. I can see how this item could save a person's life on a hiking trip gone wrong. As of this writing, I've purchased two of these bags--one for my husband's hiking/survival bag and one for mine. I look forward to ordering another to stash in my SUV.
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This durable, lightweight hiking tent is a great bargain
At over 7 feet long, 5 feet wide, and 42 inches tall, this sturdy tent offers a lot more room inside than other ultralight tents on the market, and it weighs less than three pounds! Even if you're not into hiking or emergency preparedness, it's great to have a simple backup tent for unexpected children or guests who join your party at the last minute!
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This compact sleeping pad fits easily into a backpack
No, it will never be as comfortable as a regular air bed, but it does blow up to full capacity with about nine breaths. As an item that's meant for hiking and emergency survival, don't expect it to be the most comfortable camp mattress on the planet. I keep this item with my emergency supply kit for a variety of reasons. I've used it as an extra pillow, sitting mat and yoga cushion. I've placed it on picnic table seats and wooden benches to provide extra cushioning. Above all, I enjoy knowing that I'll have SOMETHING to fall back on just in case one of my daytime hiking excursions goes wrong and I'm forced to sleep on the trail. In an imperfect world, this is one of the best hiking pads available. Luxury pads such as the Mondo King are simply too big and bulky for wilderness excursions, and they're terribly difficult to deflate and pack.
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This paracord features three types of life saving survival strands
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This tiny emergency stove runs on leaves and twigs
I love the fact this this tiny stove can run on twigs, dried leaves, wood scraps and pine cones. The thought of carrying an emergency stove that requires alcohol or propane makes me a little nervous. First, I don't have room for propane cans or extra alcohol bottles when I'm backpacking. Even if I did, what if an unforeseen emergency forced me to stay on the trail longer than expected? I'd be stuck in the wilderness without cooking fuel. No thanks!
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This tiny cookware nesting set is made of durable stainless steel
The frying pan is large enough to cook two or three eggs. The main pot can accommodate a large can of Chunky Soup. The second pot is big enough to heat two cups of water for coffee. What more can I ask from a tiny emergency cooking set? Since I don't really need the included plates, I've used them to fry little things like single meat patties or sausage links. I like the idea of using stainless steel because old school Aluminum pots can leech toxins into food. All components fit into one master pot that's not much bigger than a cereal bowl. Best of all, stainless steel can be used over an open fire if you run out of propane.
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This waterproof head lamp gives me perfect night vision
To find the best head lamp, a research lab tested more than 100 models before subjecting the best 27 to a gauntlet of side-by-side tests. Each product was lab-tested and field-tested. Industrial light meters were used to measure brightness. An automated "light coffin" with a data-logging light meter was used to measure battery life. This head lamp was one of the three top performing lamps, second only to an insanely expensive model. At $36, I knew I couldn't pass this deal by.
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This emergency raincoat is much more durable than most
These waterproof boot covers keep me from damaging my shoes
When we let our feet get cold and wet, our body temperatures can quickly plummet to dangerous levels, especially in the fall. Even if you're a summer camper, it's nice to know that you can protect your expensive sneakers or hiking boots at the first sign of rain. I like to fold these boots into quarters and slip them into the back zipper compartment of my backpack. That way, I have quick access when I need them. Unfortunately, I need them so much that I often take them out of my backpack for everyday rain wear. It's definitely time to order a second pair so that I can quit going into my survival bag for everyday items!
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Mechanical fishing reels do all the work for you!
No hiking bag is complete without emergency fishing supplies. Mechanical reels are great for lazy, impatient or inexperienced fishermen like me. Just secure the mechanism to a branch that hangs over the water, pull out the line, lock it into place and drop the line into the water. As you go about the business of cooking, chopping wood or setting up camp, the reel will automatically pull your catch home. You may also secure the reel to the side of a boat. If I can do it, anyone can.
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This small bait and tackle kit has everything I need
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My Favorite Emergency Survival Foods
Imagine you're packing for a deep wilderness adventure lasting several weeks. You won't have access to an ice machine to refresh your cooler. What simple yet satisfying foods would you bring to stay well nourished? These are my top favorite emergency survival foods!
This high protein pancake mix tastes great without milk or eggs
High protein oatmeal provides warmth and dense nutrition
Dehydrated beef chunks won't spoil in the heat!
Dehydrated potatoes add bulk to soups and stews
Freeze dried vegetables deliver fiber and vitamins
Chicken pouches are great for backpacking
Velveeta pasta products require no milk or butter
Bear Creek soup mix tastes like you made it from scratch!
Bear Creek soup mixes are great on their own, but they're even better when you add your own special ingredients. Here are some of my favorites:
Clam Chowder: I've been known to add salmon, shrimp and real cream when a cooler is available. Minestrone: I like to add a can of tomato paste and beef chunks, sometimes fresh and sometimes freeze dried. Chicken Tortilla: I normally add chicken, stewed tomatoes and crushed tortilla chips instead of crackers. Beef Stew: Great with fresh beef chunks or freeze dried beef chunks, depending on whether or not you have access to a cooler. Cheddar Potato: Great with freshly diced ham or canned ham chunks. Creamy Wild Rice: Great with fresh or foil packed chicken. |
Tuna is a wonderful additive for creamy casserole dishes
Protein bars combine dense nutrition with plenty of carbs for energy
Get 12 Packs of Salmon for just $16! That's cheaper than my local grocery store.
Powdered egg mix is great for making salmon cakes!
The best mix for recipes such as salmon cakes
The best tasting mix for making scrambled eggs
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Don't forget the bread crumbs!
First Aid ChecklistDon't get caught in the wilderness with a cheap, substandard first aid kit.
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25 Camp Games for KidsTurn your campsite into a wonderland for children.
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