REI Half-Dome 4 Person Tent Review

I promised an updated review of the REI Half-dome 4-person tent we choose for our family backpacking needs. Although I mentioned in the previous post that we would be going to Shenandoah National Park, that trip did not happen. Put simply, we were blessed with a baby who suffered from extreme colic for 4 months. She cried everyday for 4 months straight! So, we definitely did not feel comfortable enough to take her on a big trip like that. However, we did manage to try out car camping a few times!

The first car camping trip we tried was at Lake Jericho. This is a peaceful campground about 20 minutes from downtown Louisville, KY for reasonable rates. The big drawback to this campground is that it shares space with what appears to be permanent RVers. However, the tent camping area is located right by the lake away from the big rigs.

We set up camp fairly quickly - and the REI half-dome 4 person tent went up in a breeze. In some ways it was easier to set up than our old 2-person tent! The only thing we had trouble figuring out was the rainfly, but this was a nonissue since it was so clear that night. We were there about 2 hours, when we tried to get our daughter asleep unsuccessfully. The location by the lake meant we were quickly engulfed in humidity (even though it was the end of September, Louisville suffered from record breaking heat well into October this past yr!) - this made it hard for her to settle, and we were concerned her excessive crying would disturb the other campers. So, we packed out. Rob was able to tear down and pack up camp in less than 30 minutes in the dark! By then, everything was soaked from the humidity - not fun! I sat and waited in the air conditioned car with our baby who was finally able to fall asleep. We were glad we choose such a close location for our first camping attempt though, and at least we got to try out the tent for a little while!

A couple weeks later, we decided to try again. This time, we choose to camp at Jefferson Memorial Forest. This campground was much more secluded and more "camping" like - plenty of trees and no RVers. It was probably one of the best spots we've ever car camped in! Luckily, someone left a nice stash of firewood, so we were even able to have a nice campfire going. The tent went up without a hitch once again, and we loved how much room it had! It felt like we were camping in a mansion - we could fit everything inside and still had room to spare. It actually might be a bit too large for just backpacking, but for car camping it's perfect. We all slept well that night - but at 4am that changed. Apparently, Jefferson Memorial Forest is extremely close the airport! From about 4am to 6:30am the air noise kept us up as we listened to one plane takeoff after another. Thankfully, our daughter didn't seem to notice and she slept soundly! It did get rather chilly though, and we ended up putting her in between us in our sleeping bags to keep her warm rather than having her sleep in her own travel bed.

So, despite challenging circumstances - record heat and a colicky baby - we were able to get out 2 times in the fall, which I consider a success! This spring, we hope to take several trips and put our tent to some more use. But so far, I am very impressed with our purchase and would highly recommend it to anyone with children. It's perfect for car camping, but I think it will also work well for backpacking, especially once more children come along!

Backpacking with Baby

Our daughter just turned 7 months old, and come spring, she will be more than ready for us to take her on her first backpacking trip! We are so excited and can't wait to share the great outdoors with her, fostering a love of nature. She's a bit on the small side, so we haven't had a chance to use a child backpack with her yet. I still carry her in the sling for errands and housework and the front carrier for short hikes in the park. However, we'll definitely need a new backpack for her to ride in for our first backpacking trip! So, we've started the process of reviewing different child carriers. The ones we are looking at currently include:

• Deuter Kid Comfort II


• Deuter Kid Comfort III


• Tough Traveler Stallion (mainly because we can get this one used at a great price)


• Sherpani Rumba Superlight


• Kelty TC 3.0 (for dayhikes)


• Deuter KangaKid (dayhikes)

So far, we really like the Deuter Kid Comfort III, but the price is steep. We tried on the Kid Comfort II, but since we'll be taking it out on extended hikes, we were concerned it wouldn't be large enough for comfort. Plus, we really would like a sunroof, and love that the III has a built-in roof. Our goal also is to save money on whatever we choose to buy, so its likely we'll end up buying used.

I'll be doing another post to update on what model we choose to buy and whether we bought new or used!

Family Tent for Backpacking and Car Camping

Since our daughter was born, our lives have undergone numerous changes. One of these includes saying goodbye to the tiny 2-person tent my husband and I have enjoyed for the past 2 years. Although we will keep the tent for the occasional 2 person outing, we have now graduated to a 4 person tent!

Why the bigger tent? We plan on taking all our kids camping with us. Before we bought the REI-Half Dome 4-person tent, I did quite a bit of research on larger backpacking tents. This one had the best reviews, and it is something that we can grow into. I love that is is lightweight enough to backpack with, but big enough to car camp in. The price can't be beat either!

If you are considering a lightweight 4-person backpacking tent, I highly recommend this one. We will be taking it on our first camping and hiking trip next weekend to Shenandoah National Park. I will update with a review on the park and some the hiking trails as well as a review on how the tent worked out.

Guide to Waterproof Jackets

With the cool fall weather, many people are finally able to go outside and take a hike. Some of you may be planning to take a trip or trek during autumn, and the one item that is essential during this time of the year is a reliable waterproof jacket. As a frugal backpacker and hiker, I can tell you from experience that a trash bag or poncho just does not work. They make you sweat like nothing else and provide little warmth in the winter- not to mention they puncture easily! Likewise, a Walmart jacket will not serve you any better, especially if you sweat a lot. Taking the time to find a good quality jacket will reap its rewards tenfold when you are out on the trail trekking through a fall storm but remain dry.

Webtogs (outdoor gear specialist) has recently launched a video guide to waterproof jackets. The host explains the most important aspects of a waterproof jacket that need to be considered when making a purchase. Since not all outdoor activities are the same, not all waterproof jackets can be treated alike either. This stress on what type of activity you will be engaging in while wearing the coat is essential, because it determines what you need. For example, a hiker will benefit from a long coat while a climber will need a small coat that is close to their body so that movement is not restricted.

Some other elements discussed in the video include:

• Fabric- Why it makes a difference and what to look for. You don't want to be sweating like a pig! Look for membrane that lets water vapor through but stops the rain from coming in.
• Features- What to look for in hoods, zippers and pockets. Since fall temperatures can fluctuate, a good pit zip should also be considered to allow airflow into the jacket while blocking most of the rain. I loved the idea of making sure you have a front chest pocket to store your map in!

Although buying quality gear can be more expensive, it's certainly worth it in the long run. When you're climbing the Appalachian Mountains and are caught in a downpour, you'll see what I mean. You can't put a price on dryness in the back-country! As I've said before- "Good gear is gear that you can count on even in the worst of times".

For more gear reviews, click here.

Leki Trekking Poles Review

If you hike a lot, chances are you've either come across others using trekking poles on their hike or you may utilize them yourself. I'll admit, when I first saw others using them, I thought- How dorky! Who would want to use ski poles to hike- haven't they ever heard of hiking sticks?! But as I hiked more and more, I started to see the advantages of using trekking poles.

They provide better footing, transfer some of the weight off your back, are easier on your knees and can aid in hiking over slippery or steep trail.

When my husband bought me my Leki trekking poles for my graduation present, I was excited to finally try them out. When I did, I was astounded I did not want them sooner! I felt like I was flying down the trail with those poles! My husband commented that I hike much faster and more confidently than I ever did before. Now, I won't go anywhere without them :-).

LEKI Luau Trekking Poles - Women's

These beauties are the best thing since sliced bread (ok, maybe just the best thing since hiking poles came out). What I love about my pair is that they are tailored to women (complete with a cool luau design). They are easy to close and adjust and sturdy (they don't ever collapse on me). Best of all? LIFETIME warranty. Meaning if you ever do manage to break these suckers, Leki will replace them for you free of charge!

My husband paid over a hundred dollars for my poles, but right now they are on sale at amazon.com for only $70! That's like over 40% off the original price. I am a little mad mine cost so much more, but that's what happens when new and exciting gear comes out.

Click here to snag this amazing deal!

Marmot Mica Jacket Review

Rain gear is an essential item for the backpacker. Although there tends to be quite a bit of opinion regarding what is the best option for rain gear, there is no doubt that it plays a pivotal role for the hiker who is trudging through the wet forests of the eastern US. Key considerations when choosing rain gear are weight and breathe-ability. Many lightweight backpackers often find a hard time finding a nice medium of both.

Enter the new Marmot Mica Jacket. A wonderful melting of breathable waterproof fabric that's completely lightweight. And it's not just lightweight- it's comfortable. The softness of the jacket makes it easy to wear even if only a slight drizzle interrupts your hike.

Not convinced? How about a video showing off it's greatest assets? The Webtogs video review of the Marmot Mica Jacket (for men) gives you a short and informative high-quality overview of the jacket from a hiker's point of view. You'll get to see this jacket in motion as a member of the Webtogs team explains the specs in detail.

Highlights of the Marmot Mica Jacket:

• Lightweight (bulkiness cut down through use of waterproof seaming)
• Breathable (constructed of MemBrain Strata fabric)
• Adjustable (velcro cuff, elastic draw cords)
• Zippered pockets

The woman's version is similar, but it is known as the Marmot Crystalline Jacket, although the basic specs are the same. This jacket definitely stands up on the list of high quality rain gear. It's tough and it's rough and it will get you through any type of rain from downpour to drizzle, keeping you dry and comfortable along the way. And weighing in at only 7 oz., it's a lightweight and ultra-light backpacker's best bet.

Although buying quality gear can be more expensive, it's certainly worth it in the long run. When you're climbing the Appalachian Mountains and are caught in a downpour, you'll see what I mean. You can't put a price on dryness in the back-country! As I've said before- "Good gear is gear that you can count on even in the worst of times".

To read Cincinnati Hiker's Berghaus hiking boot review, click here. To watch more videos produced by Webtogs, click here.

Storing Hiking and Backpacking Gear Effectively

Whenever I get ready for another hike or another backpacking trip, I seem to scurry around like a mouse for an hour or two, gathering all my gear and checking off my list, afraid of forgetting something. After our last backpacking trip, however, we have devised a simple system to make getting ready for trips easier and smoother. And the less time it takes to get ready, the more time spent hiking or on the trail!

Hang a "Master List" in the closet that holds your gear.

We decided to print ours out and laminate it, that way we can cross off things we have with a marker and wipe it clean for next time. This is a great time saver, since we don't have to hunt down where the list is- it's already there! Make a checklist for day hikes and backpacking trips and categorize them by seasons. Since hiking in the winter requires additional gear, have a separate list for it.

RePack each backpack at the end of each trip, leaving out only food, water, toiletries and clothing.

This saves a huge amount of time. Wash everything that needs to be immediately after each trip and repack. Make a separate list of items that belong in the pack permanently. Make sure to leave out items like sleeping bags so that they don't loose their fill, especially if they are down. Now all you need to do for the next trip is grab and go!

Sort through gear at the end of every trip and re-evaluate.

Determine at the end of each trip, when your memory is the freshest, whether you needed or used a particular item. If it's not one of the 10 essentials and you don't use it, toss it. This helps to bring down over-all pack weight over time. Make a list of items that need replacing and repairing as well, such as first aid items that were used or a broken tent zipper. If you don't do it now, chances are you will forget and have trouble during your next trip.

These system has worked out great so far, and I cannot imagine going back to my former scurrying!

Do you have a system/strategy when it comes to storing gear for the next trip? Share in the comments below!

My Review of Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite - Regular

REI

For sleep-anywhere comfort, Z Lite is the lightest, most compact, full-length closed-cell foam pad Therm-a-Rest® makes.

Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite - Regular

Reliable but not too comfy...

3 5

Gift: No

Pros: Lightweight, Compact Roll Up, Non Slip, Durable Design

Cons: Uncomfortable

Best Uses: Backpacking, Weekend Trips, Car Camping, Extended Trips

Describe Yourself: Avid Adventurer

What Is Your Gear Style: Minimalist

I first switched to the Z-lite after using a blue foam pad for about a year. The difference is amazing, and the z-lite really does give you pretty good comfort for a lightweight foam pad.

However, I am a side sleeper, and this pad just isn't cutting it. I wake up every morning feeling the aches and pains from not only the hike the before, but from sleeping on the ground as well. After you get used to it, it's not too bad, though that is true with most ground sleeping.

I would recommend this pad for those looking for a foam pad. It really is the best out there for ease of use, durability and the orange color helps you stand out in hunting areas. For those wanting an excellent night's sleep, opt for a self-inflating or else bring a bottle of wine!

Team KANGA launches YouTube videos

Team KANGA has launched its series of YouTube videos. These videos are centered around hiking and backpacking within America's National Parks. It also focus' on ways to enjoy America's National Parks on a budget. Right now, you can view a few of the videos such as backpacking basics and dangerous scenic byways.

Berghaus Hiking Boot Review

One of the most important pieces of gear that you will need while hiking or backpacking is, of course, your footwear. Boots are what propel you along on the trail and protect your feet and ankles. I currently wear a high rise backpacking boot (it's actually the sturdiest boot made for women) due to an ankle problem, but many people are fortunate to stick with mid-rises.

The boot shown in the photo is the Berghaus Explorer Ridge GTX Walking Boot. What makes this boot a good choice? Plenty of reasons! Here are just a few:

• Waterproof with Gortex (meaning it's breathable!)
  
• Relatively lightweight with a leather upper
• Tunable lacing system (my favorite feature by far!)

If I were on the hunt for a new hiking boot, I would definitely check these out. Although made in the UK, you can order from Berghaus here. These boots also scale high on the affordability scale, meaning you won't be dishing out your life's savings to get your pair.

Looking for more gear besides boots and footwear? Check out the Berghaus YouTube page. From rain jackets to pants, you can watch video reviews of all their products. The videos are well produced, short and informative. Its like having a personal gear shopper right beside you! You not only get to see all the different angles of the product, but you get firsthand recommendations from real people.

I cannot stress the importance of taking your time to really review a product when shopping for backpacking or hiking gear. Usually, good quality gear is a bit expensive, but the money you pay is money well spent. You certainly don't want to be climbing the Appalachain Mountains and have your boots go sour on you, or worse, watch the tredding completely disappear. Good gear is gear that you can count on even in the worst of times. Check out the return policies for all gear that you purchase, as well as manufactor waranties. For example, we purchased a water filter that broke within a year of use. Since the warranty was five years, we were able to return it and get a new one for no cost!

So, read, reveiw and purchase! And don't forget to check out Berghaus' awesome videos!