iCampingAdventure.com

I grew up in the south in the 1960’s. Married when I was 18 and joined the Army when I was 23. I traveled to Germany then back to the states where I lived in Connecticut for a while and then Tennessee for 10 years. I am now living in Maine.

Of all the traveling I have done in my life I have heard people asking one question constantly. It doesn’t matter if you are religious or not. We all want to know What is the meaning of life? I myself have asked that question a thousand times.

Socrates and Plato and a thousand other deep thinkers of their times have tried to define or explain the meaning of life. Each with his own perception and understanding and most times with a very complicated explanation.

It was not until I took up hiking in the mountains of Tennessee that I had plenty of time to ponder the complexities of this age old question. Being a Christian I was raised to believe certain things and to look at life in certain ways. But as I got older and began studying and searching for myself I began to realize that what I was taught as a child was not as complicated as some would have had me believe.

I always wondered why God would have put us here simply to suffer through this life. After all he does love us and of that I have no doubt. So why then? I studied and pondered and reflected in deep thought just like many have before me, and like them, to no avail.

Then one day while hiking the Appalachian Trail in Tennessee I came to a clearing overlooking a valley. It was a clear day with the sun shining bright. As I looked out across the valley I saw an eagle soaring on the wind. And as usual the thought crossed my mind that it would be really nice to be able to soar like that. Then I thought, do eagles look at us and wish they were like us?

That is when something inside me clicked. It was more like an explosion or an awakening of sorts. The meaning of life was so simple that I had looked right past it thinking that it would be some big discovery of some sort. Some words of wisdom that would make me look like a genius. Instead three words kept going through my brain. Thundering as if God himself was speaking them directly into my thoughts.

We spend our entire lives from the moment we take our first breath til our last one is used up trying to be something we aren’t. Whether we are trying to get a job by seeming more experienced or trying to win someones heart by becoming the person they are looking for. We act differently in different situations. Why?

It is in our nature I suppose or at least the nature of the flesh. But God’s nature is to be the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. And since we are to strive to be more God-like, which I used to think meant to try to be perfect, then the meaning of life is nothing more than to JUST BE YOU!

Yep, it is just that simple. Be you no matter what happens or where you are or who you are with or what you are trying to achieve. If you can do this you will be something that the majority of people will never be. Good, bad or indifferent you will just be you.

John Dyer is the owner of: thisonlinepage.com

T.H.I.S stands for Truth Honesty Integrity Sincerity - something the author has found too little of online.

Price :

Features

• Two-hoop bivy-style tent for one sleeper (21.33 square foot area)
• Ventilated with a large mesh roof; attached full coverage fly
• Zipper in roof cloth for easy entry/exit
• Includes two storage pockets and one flashlight loop
• Center height of 28 inches; weighs 2 pounds, 9 ounces

Product Description

Improving on a classic, Eureka! has made its lightest and most compact solo tent even faster to set up! Its simple assembly features pole pockets on one end, ring & pin on the other. An added zipper in the center of the roof cloth allows easy entry and exit. At 2 lbs 9 oz, this 3 season, solo tent with efficient tunnel design and compact fold size remains extremely lightweight. Two storage pockets and flashlight loop inside.2-hoop bivy-style solo tent.Shockcorded 6.3mm fiberglass frame.Three storm guy outs on fly.Nylon pole sleeves aid in set up and stability. Capacity:1 Doors: 1 Windows: Full panel mesh Minimum weight: 2 lbs. 9 oz. Floor (sq.ft.): 21.5 Dimensions: 2 ft. 8 in. x 8 ft. Interior height: 2 ft. 4 in. Number of poles: 2 Packed size: 5.5 in. x 17 in. Floor material: 70D Taffeta nylon. Fly material: 70D Taffeta nylon. Roof & rear vent material: 40D No-see-um netting. Frame: 6.3mm Fiberglass.

Customer Reviews

Review date : 2009-01-12
This tent is extremely good for its designed purpose; a lightweight backpacking tent. It packs extremely small and light. Have used it in all night rain and wind with no leaks (without sealing the seams or additional waterproofing). I am 6′2" and can fit in the tent without touching any sides, but space is very tight and there is no room for gear. Plan for your boots and pack to be outside. I have found a large black trash bag is sufficient to keep everything dry outside of the tent and adds no additional weight to my pack, plus I have something to put wet stuff in the next day. It takes some practice to learn to get into and out of the tent, but it is worth it for the light weight and weather protection this tent provides.

Review date : 2008-12-28
I love my solitaire. It’s incredibly lightweight and inexpensive. I use this tent for multiple day bicycle trips and solo backpacking or kayaking trips. I’ve never had a problem with rain/snow (I’ve had it snow as much as 3 inches while sleeping in mine).

There are at least two models, and I think the newer one has aluminum poles and a zipper down the middle for getting out. I’d go with the aluminum poles if you can find them. One of my poles is held together with electrical tape (only reason I’m not giving 5 stars). The other downside is the 12 or so stakes required to hold it up.

Review date : 2008-11-24
I purchased this tent for my first backpacking trip in the Appalachians. The weather ranged from 60F during the day to about 25F at night, but of course the tent was only out in the cold.

The confined space inside functioned nicely as a cocoon, and was surprisingly long enough for my 6′5" frame. I am a college age guy, so wriggling in and out wasn’t much of an issue.

The big problem with this tent is the tendency for the fiberglass poles to snap. One of them broke at the beginning of the trip, and I was able to wrap it a couple times with duct tape to hold it, but another snapped on the last day and it is effectively unusable now. Perhaps this wouldn’t happen in warmer weather.

Review date : 2008-09-14
Both of my boys uses these for rough out camping trips where they cannot carry alot of stuff with them. While they might be a little tight for a large adult, a teenager or small adult can get in them pretty easily. They keep out the rain and the bugs. A little strange to set up but they seem sturdy.

Review date : 2008-09-03
I bought the Eureka Solo Solitaire for my first Backpacking trip. It was excellent. Easy to set up. Kept me dry in the rain. Its light weight helped keep my pack weight down. I am 6′2" and 250 lbs and found the tent roomy in every direction. In every way this tent met my expectations while being the least expensive solo tent I could find on the market.

Price : $79.95

Features

• ErgoSOFT grips: LEKI’s original, natural rubber, dual compound, ergonomic grip design set the industry standard for comfortable support and control. Automatic strap adjusts without the use of buckles.
• Expander Locking System: LEKI’s original expander locks offer quick, easy length adjustment and secure hold.
• Carbide Flextips: concave, cylindrical tips offer secure hold on all terrain and surfaces; Carbide is extremely hard and durable; entire tip ferrule (Flextip) is replaceable.

Product Description

New for 2008, the LEKI Trail Trekking Poles are ideal for entry-level or cost-conscious hikers and backpackers. Providing reliable performance with no-frills, Ergo Soft rubber grips offer a comfortable handhold, while an integrated strap helps to reduce stress on your wrists and give additional security. Featuring a carbide flex tip that deflects up to 30 degrees without damaging the lower pole section, these hiking sticks reduce the risk of pole breakage in rugged terrain. Standard trekking baskets are included and are interchangeable with a simple screw on/off design that stays secure.

Price : $8.97

Features

• Heavy-duty polyethylene carrier resists dents and cracks
• Molded handles for convenient carrying
• On/Off spigot removes easily for quick filling
• Opening is large enough for ice cubes
• Folds flat for compact storage and transport (hook & rope included)

Product Description

This collapsible water cooler folds flat for easy storage. The opening is large enough for ice cubes. The ease on/off spigot removes for quick filling. This water cooler has molded handles for convenient carrying and pouring. The heavy duty polyethylene carrier resists dents and cracks so it will look newer longer.

Customer Reviews

Review date : 2008-09-09
I purchased this as an inexpensive secondary fermentation/bottling vessel for homebrewing. While waiting for my shipment to arrive I found an equivilant at my local Walmart for under $6.00 (Ozark Trail or something). The Coleman bottle has 2 molded handles which will eventually pose a cleaning problem since water flows through them. My spigot leaks around the green screw connector. The container has a strong ‘plastic’ smell. I’m not sure how that will effect the flavor of water (or brew in my case). Over all I’m not pleased with the Coleman purchase.

The Walmart brand was perfect, leak free and excellent for fermenting and bottling in one easy step. The collapsable design eliminated chugging and it was BPA free, (a widely used chemical used to make plastic food and drinking containers).

FYI - I did not check spelling.

Review date : 2008-09-05
I have two of these, I no longer use them though. The first one , the valve screw broke and the second one had a leak in the seam.

I ended up buying a 7 gallon hard plastic jug

Review date : 2008-07-25
I like that these bottles are so cheap, have free shipping, are a white see through color so that I can see the water level and see if there is anything that should not be inside in it, have a removable spigot on the side, and they are collapsible. The bottles are relatively thinner plastic so I will not use that feature much in order to not stress out the bottles. They do the job for the cheapest amount of money I’ve found and that’s basically what I like them for. I will get heavy duty quality water bottles in the future, I think.

Review date : 2008-07-16
what can you say it holds water it seems in the limited time using it that there are no major problems, the little nozel deal can slide up a l;ittle which can lead to leaking but nothing major, the size is the real plus 5 gallons of H2O in a fairly small package (about as small as 5 gallons can get) easy to carry easy to refill, would buy again

Review date : 2008-01-23
what can i say but it holds liquid, not ideal for continual backpacking. can lead to material failure from expanding and storage.

Price : $134.95

Features

• Tall, waterproof full-grain leather upper offers lasting comfort and style
• eVENT waterproof barrier is waterproof and breathable; nylon lining wicks sweat away from your feet
• Rugged nylon collar offers flexibility
• 200 g. of PrimaLoft insulation ensures warmth and comfort to -25 F. during active use; 400 g. in toes offers extra warmth
• Features lace-up design with heel and toe loops for an easy and secure fit

Product Description

Winter comes fast, so get your feet prepared for the cold with the Keen Men’s Snoqualmie Winter Boots. One day you’re in a tank top and the next you’re shaking in your boots if you don’t have the protection of the Keen Snoqualmie’s waterproof leather uppers and the comfort of their flexible nylon collars. The Snoqualmie’s Primaloft insulation should keep your feet from going into hypothermic shock. But keep in mind these first winter stints are often short-lived. As the snow melts, this boot’s event waterproof barriers will keep water out, while the nylon linings will wick sweat away from your feet. Compression-molded EVA midsoles mean that your feet stay cushioned and comfy.. The Snoqualmie’s dual weather rubber outsoles give you traction and steady footing no matter how manic the weather is this year.

Product Features

• Material: [Upper leather
• Lining: eVENT / nylon
• Sole: Rubber
• Lacing: Standard
• Shank: Nylon
• Weight: 2lb 10.5oz (1332g)
• Recommended Use: Hiking, winter casual
• Manufacturer Warranty: 1 Year

Customer Reviews

Review date : 2008-01-08
very nice boots. husband has a bad toe and these slide over his feet easily.

Price : $31.99

Features

• Includes PM6 flashlight, Columbia River M16-10KZ knife, and batteries
• Features a lightweight and crush-resistant polymer body
• Three-inch Ti Nitride-coated high carbon stainless steel blade
• 74 Lumens from a Xenon beam
• All Pelican products come with an unconditional lifetime guarantee

Product Description

Knife / Light Combo Pack from Pelican is a dynamic duo! SAVE BIG! A sharp deal and a bright steal! Special Pelican Combo Pack puts the power to cut materials AND darkness right in the palm of your hand! Ideal for carving, fine cuts and cutting ropes and cables, the tanto-style M16-10Z is a rigid, fiberglass-filled folder with anodized black finish, knurled housing and a slim, razor-sharp profile. The bonus Flashlight is a super-bright xenon-bulb marvel with a no-slip grip molded housing that’s lightweight, rustproof and super-durable. Together, they’re a can’t-miss bargain that saves you BIG! A pair with flair: Knife blade is AUS 4 high-carbon stainless steel; Solvent resistant for use on work sites; Blade has both straight and serrated edges; Flashlight features momentary / toggle switch; Black-oxide coated belt clip; Includes long-life lithium cells. Blade measures 3l., overall length 7 1/8l. Light: 5 1/4l. Weighs 2 1/4 ozs. without batteries, 3 1/2 ozs. with batteries; Order today and snare your pair! WARNING: You must be 18 or older to purchase Cutlery. Cutlery cannot be shipped to Marin, Napa, Ventura and Yolo counties, CA; D.C.; MA or Puerto Rico. Please check your State, County and City laws for restrictions before ordering Cutlery. Pelican Knife / Light Combo Pack

Customer Reviews

Review date : 2009-01-11
This is a great combo package with a well constructed flip blade and a durable flashlight.

Review date : 2009-01-05
Two quality products.
Flashlight is well made and compares to a Surefire at a reasonable price. The beam has a nice very bright, focused spot with a larger secondary illumination area.

Knife is sharp, very easy and fast to open and features a positive lock once it’s open. I especially like that the knife has a small profile for my back pocket.

Pelican 3380 Knife/Flashlight Combo Set

Review date : 2009-01-02
Quality knife from a reputable company. Nice, compact size for everyday wearing.

Flashlight seems to be high quality. The light is very bright for the small size which is nice. Also compact and has a clip which are both useful elements.

Review date : 2008-08-12
Flashlight is awesome - knife is goofy with a unique and overly complex locking mechanism. Definitely worth the Gold Box price.

Price : $50.00

Features

• Weight: 8 lb. / 3.6 kg
• Weight Capacity: 225 lb. / 102 kg
• Seat width: 23.5 / 60 cm
• Seat Depth: 18 / 46 cm
• Seat Height: 16.25 / 41 cm

Product Description

This breathable mesh chair keeps your backside dry on hot days, and puddles won’t form when it’s left in the rain. Built with a 16-millimeter steel frame for durability, it comes equipped with the unique adjustable beverage holder, easy-access mesh pocket, reflective ascents, and a transport sack.

Price : $99.98

Features

• Catalytic heater with platinum technology provides flameless warmth
• Cordless heater can be used in a garage, shop, house, tent, or ice shanty
• Pressure-regulated propane fuel system, designed with a fan for better heat circulation
• Operates up to eight hours on 16.4-ounce Coleman propane cylinder
• 3,000 BTU; designed for indoor use; limited lifetime warranty

Product Description

Get reliable, flameless heat with this Coleman Powercat Heater! No hose, no cords… just heat. That’s the best way to describe this new Heater from Coleman. It’s designed for indoor use, and pumps out a toasty 3000 BTUs of cozy heat! Cold buster: Operates up to 8 hours on 16 oz. Coleman propane cylinder; Catalytic heater with platinum technology provides 3000 BTUs of safe, flameless warmth; Pressure regulated propane fuel system burns fuel efficiently; Built-in fan powered by 2 ‘D’ batteries provides better heat circulation (batteries not included); Designed for indoor use. Heat things up with Coleman! Order ONLINE Now! Coleman Powercat 3000 BTU Heater

Customer Reviews

Review date : 2009-01-01
Simply, I love this heater. It is really big not suitable for backpacking. If you want to know more or less the size of this product go to the colema web page, find this item and click on the manual of it. There are some pics showing an adult hand maneuvring this heater.

In spite of this size, I really like it. The size gives more heat than a regular coleman heater, but the fan does a great difference by spreading the heat all around the tent. For sure it takes more room in the vehicle, but at the same tame I take with me less blankets and extra stuff to stay warm inside the tent.

I may suggest take with you one propane gas bottle (16 oz) and a pair of D batteries for each camping night.

Review date : 2008-12-24
Purchased from Amazon. I was pleased with the service, tracking and follow up. Will continue to shop with them.
When opening the box my initial surprise was the size of the unit. Compared to the picture it is amazingly large. I used the heater inside a 9×9 canvas tent about 82" high at 32 degrees with rain & snow. I was happily surprised at how much heat this unit puts out. It is not instant, you have to wait an hour or two but it really warms the tent. The angle of the heater is for distributing the heat upward but I placed the heater on one of those small step stools and it fits perfect. The only draw back is the battery life. I used the heater mostly without the fan but you can definitely tell the difference so bring plenty of batteries. I camp in primitive locations with no toilets and this heater is great to place in a potty privy and leave on. I also have a separate carbon monoxide alarm and I placed it within 5 feet of the heater with no alarm.
I find the heater safe, with ventilation: It uses up the air to function so ventilation is a must and do not use while sleeping.The heater is the appropriate size for stability and venting the hot air. I would recommend this heater for tent camping or as a potty or shower privy heater.If you have a small gathering area it is great for keeping the area cozy.
Cons: No bag for unit. I ordered a Coleman bag but it is too small unless you place the heater upside down in the bag and it still will not zip up, do some research Coleman.
Cons: Battery life for fan sucks, get a battery pack.

Review date : 2008-12-20
I bought this for use in a camper van for snow trips. Supposedly safe for use indoors, but it set off my carbon monoxide detector after about an hour. I’m not comfortable at all using this inside. It would be a decent foot-warmer for off-season patio occasions though.

If you get a catalytic heater like this, get a CO detector so you don’t wake up dead.

It’s also larger than I thought– the element is about 8 inches across. It’s hard to tell from the picture, but that might matter to you if you plan on traveling with it.

Running the first bottle of fuel through it outside got rid of the first-time fire-up smell.

The build quality is rather poor. I had to remove the chrome ring and re-seat the element because it was not aligned with the chassis properly. The propane bottle presses against the plastic body.

Review date : 2008-12-19
I have camped in 20 degree weather in a 3 season tent with a -15 sleeping bag. It gets cold especially any uncovered areas like your face. I end up covering it with my jacket. Then I got this ProCat heater - what a difference!

Takes the chill off
One thing about winter is that you are usually in your tent pretty early because it is dark around 4 pm or so - especially out in the woods. There really isn’t any time for pre-heat. But I found this takes the chill off within about 15 minutes. I camped about a month ago in a 30 year old canvas tent with flaps over the door and window (no zippers like today’s tents). It got down to 20 degrees but I still felt very comfortable - with my clothes on of course. Once in my sleeping bag, I didn’t need to cover my face, in fact, I kind of got a little warm.

Use the fan
Definitely use the fan. You will need D batteries. I started about 5 pm and used it until 7 am the next morning and the batteries were still running strong. The fan makes what I consider typical noise from a fan, nothing loud and didn’t bother me.

Have two tanks for all night use
As others have said, the propane runs out in the middle of the night but the fan of course keeps running. In my case I just hooked up the second tank and it wasn’t long until it was warm again. This is in a one room tent (about 10×10x6 feet high). And yes I lit it inside the tent; just don’t put your face (or any combustible) right in the thing. Next time I will change the tanks around 10 so I don’t wake up cold in the middle of the night.

Safe?
I did have a tester which never measured anything. And I obviously woke up alive. However, I did have a bit of a headache. I also have tried this heater in my house and had a bit of a headache as well. Could have been coincidence and I haven’t noticed any other side affects so I guess that is determined ’safe’. But you want to have some air come in anyway so the thing doesn’t consume all of it…

Around the house
I have used it inside the house. I feel more comfortable always using a tester. Common sense - we need to breath air and some things are easy to ignite so keep them away from it.

Conclusion
I have camped in the summer when it unexpectedly got down in the 30s. I doubt I will still think of taking this. But if you want to enjoy winter camping this is ideal. Take a set of batteries, two tanks of propane (per night). It is not going to feel like home or a roaring fire but it still makes camping comfortable. And you can use it around the house.

Review date : 2008-12-17
Very light weight, except the physical size is larger than expected. The bag that Amazon recommends as a carrying bag (Coleman Soft Black Carry Case for Catalytic Heaters by Coleman) is too small to hold the heater. You’ll need a good size backpack to hold the heater if you want to carry it with you.

Price : $21.99

Features

• Weight: 12 ounces
• Durable Nylon Blend Fabric
• Steel S-Hooks for easy hanging
• 250lbs. capacity–lab tested
• Mildew resistant

Product Description

Arguably the lightest portable hammock on the market, the UltraLight Travel Hammock is made to go anywhere. These rugged yet stylish hammocks are constructed from a durable nylon-blend material. Ideal for backpackers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts because it dries almost instantly and is mildew resistant. Quickly pack up your UltraLight Hammock into the built-in stuff sack and you are on your way to a new adventure. All UltraLight hammocks come with FREE hanging kit ($4.99 value). Weight: 12oz and is 114 x 54 Available Color: GREEN

Customer Reviews

Review date : 2008-09-02
I’m disappointed that the terms "Ultralight" and "Green" are used with this product. I think this misleading attempt to cash in on publicity for new "ultralite" synthetic materials used for hiking, mountain and rock climbing. It’s also advertised as "great for backpacking," but I don’t think so. Camping Hammocks exist, such as those from Hennessy, which are complete alternatives to camping tents. They do have "ultralite" models which use more expensive materials to minimize weight. Ultralite Backpacker A-Sym (1.15 lbs) Hennessy Hammock Expedition A-sym The Green, Ultralight Travel Hammock might be great for other purposes, but the marketing makes me suspicious and unconfortable. Does it stand up to mold, mildew and rot in storage? Will it last for more than a summer or two?

Review date : 2008-07-30
This is a dangerous product - do not buy it. The first time I used it the rope snapped and I almost landed head first on the ground. The problem is that the cheap eye hook they use has a sharp edge and will cut through the poor quality main support rope. I just bought a better quality Hammock, of the same design, at the Supermarket for $9.95.

Review date : 2008-07-21
I adore this lightweight hammock. It is easy to use and easy to love. Definite must for camping!

Review date : 2008-06-20
This product is great!! I actually bought it to hang under my daughter’s loft bed instead of the standard coach. She loves it. It is simple to hang up. It is incredibly light weight but can easily hold a 200lb man. It has enough material too. Great item. The one negative item is that when a grown man lays in it the hammock pulls tight and you can’t lay with your legs straight in front of you. But still great!!!

Review date : 2008-06-19
Three of these hammocks were bought for a camping trip with my kids (ages 12 and 14). The first observation, the hammock does not come with a attach it to a tree. So my kids learned how to braid cord into rope so we could hang our hammocks.

The item as its shown at the time of this review says it comes with a free hanging kit. It this hammock does not come with a hanging kit, make sure you get something to hang this hammock with - or you will be sleeping on the ground.

I was disappointed that the hammocks did not come with at least a few feet of nylon rope. All you get in this package is the hammock, no rope, no cord no nothing to hang it with. To fix this problem, I bought some nylon rope and some D-rings with an 800 pound safe working limit. The D-rings can now be used for other things, as needed.

The stuff sack is attached to the side of the hammock. This is a nice touch, as it prevents you from loosing the stuff sack and its nice for having your flashlight close by at night.

The hammock needs to be a little wider, as you can roll out of it somewhat easily. I was sitting next to the camp fire and heard a "thud" - looked over and my 14 year old son had rolled out of his hammock. Good thing for him it was only about a foot off the ground. While I was trying to go to sleep in the hammock, I rolled around and almost fell out.

Overall this is a good quality, but its made in communist china. I was disappointed to see that the hammock was not made in the USA.

Price : $22.95

Features

• Percolator, Blue - 9 cup
• Enamelware
• 1 Year

Product Description

In the morning, Coleman’s Nine Cup Coffee Percolator gets you and your buddies going. Or, if you need about nine cups to get you when you car camp, this percolator will suit you just fine. The enamelware Coffee Percolator won’t rust or burn, and it retains its original glossiness throughout many camping seasons.

Product Features

• Material: Enamelwear
• Dimensions: 8.3 x 6 x 5.8in (21 x 15 x 14cm)
• Capacity / Volume: 27fl oz (0.8L)
• Weight: 2lb 8oz (929g)
• Recommended Use: Car camping, road trips
• Manufacturer Warranty:

Customer Reviews

Review date : 2008-01-14
tried 2 different percolators recently that were not well constructed compared to the coleman (lids did not interlock into the bases securely to prevent coffee from splattering all over stove). That’s not the case with this coleman; it’s a solid percolator. My only complaint is the lack of a clear glass piece on the top of the lid to identify when the coffee actually starts to perk.

Review date : 2006-09-06
This is coated with a very hard enamel that should hold up for years in the outdoors. It can also be great for home use. The actual bin where you put the coffee is kind of thin but works. I think is was made this way to make it light as possible for transport to the campsite. It really looks great on any retro stove you may have or looks fine on a new one too. I like this product that makes coffee anywhere, over a fire or on a stove.