my camp gear

Mt Solitary with kids

geoff — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 07:17:15 +0000

Our overnight bushwalk up Mt Solitary in the Blue mountains was a great success. It was a fun time exploring the bush with the kids and doing Bear Grylls (Man vs Wild) impersonations. We think that Daniel (6) may be youngest to summit and camp up there. It was a big effort for the kids to do the scrambling up the knife edge and we found the climbing was their favourite part. I guess there are no surprises there.

We playing with a new toy the Go Pro Hero cam (HD) to give a bit of a different perspective for the video.

Hiking Mockumentary

geoff — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 10:51:40 +0000

As a hiker and a media producer I love this video. Great tips on how to make your very own hiking documentary video.

Preparing for the Mt Solitary hike with kids

geoff — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 09:31:30 +0000

As the weekend draws near it's time to get the details together for this trip which hopefully we can still do it with my son feeling sick. I've also found another record of some kids doing this walk with the youngest being 7.

Each trip I ask a few questions and do a bit of research to ensure safety and enjoyment.

What weather should I expect and be prepared for?

Weather can make or break a trip. I find that when I know what to expect and come prepared then the trip is enjoyable, even if it's raining the whole time. The two sites I mostly visit for Australian weather information are Bureau of Meteorology and Weatherzone.

Hiking with kids

geoff — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 12:30:33 +0000

It's been too long since I've had some outdoor goodness thanks to more back surgery. So it's time get out and take my 6 yo on an overnight hike. He's done a fair bit of car camping but just one bushwalking trip with only 15 minute walk, but this time it's different. It's about a real hike, albeit an easy one. It's a chance to do some real walking and scrambling and stay out under the stars bushwalking style. There'll be no soft comforts like big tents with camp kitchens or camping trailers here (so of course Dion won't be coming).

We've got some friend's kids (8 and 11) coming along (and their mum) which will help with the motivation along the walk when Daniel gets tired plus they'll provide a fun atmosphere all around - share the bushwalking love I say (read as "convert those smelly dirt bike riding kids to real bush adventure").

I've selected a short and simple walk - Mt Solitary return via the Golden Staircase on Narrowneck plateau in the Blue Mountains. Here's my reasons:

I've done this trip many times with friends and newbies (it was even my first overnight bushwalk - done solo)
It's physically easy with a brief bit of fun scrambling up Mt Solitary (about 7km each way)
There are campsites along the way meaning if he gets too tired we can bail early
It's interesting with a bit of a climb, some caves and good views of the Jamison valley

Now off to find some gear and get us both sorted!

Rear tent to turn a 4WD Wagon or Ute into a tent

dion — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 10:36:50 +0000

I found this set up the other day. The text reads...

A perfect fit for SUVs, minivans, and similar vehicles with rear liftgates or hatchbacks, the DAC Explorer 2 SUV Tent lets you enjoy camping off the ground. Comfortable and convenient, the Explorer 2 is easy to set up, thanks to bungee cords equipped with plastic coated hooks that attached to your vehicles underframe. There’s no worry of bugs getting in and ruining your sleep – this DAC SUV tent’s shock cord ensures it is snug against the vehicle, and it also has a no-see-un insect screen. Other features include fold up outer door panels, two way zippers and carrying bag. Strap one to your SUV for $109.

I've never seen anything like this available in Australia. Might be a market opportunity for someone?

Another sicko - need help

dion — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 10:41:39 +0000

Ok, here's one, a sick one. Doesn't even go camping anymore and wants to get more gear. Call 000...

I Want: Camping Gear! 30nov09

"In the realm of frivolity, I would like to own camping gear even though I haven’t gone camping in close to 4 years and probably never would again…"

What to do when you haven't got sand pegs - but need them.

dion — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:31:34 +0000

We recently camped on a sand island. And guess what? No sand pegs. So we came up with this temporary solution that got us out of trouble.

Redneck Camping Guide - you gotta see this!

dion — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 21:59:27 +0000

This is very funny - one for Geoff and his light weight, latte sipping hiking buddies...

Website listing free/cheap campsites in Australia

dion — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:49:52 +0000

I just came across the Oz Camps website.

It says;

"This map has been designed for campers who enjoy free/independent camping. Free camping includes National and State Parks which may attract a fee.

"This free camping map has been designed so that anyone is able to add/edit/delete places. Please ensure accuracy when completing the location."

So far it lists more than 300 sites. Brilliant!

Plus you can download the camp sites to your GPS - how good is that!

Easy-to-make portable swing

dion — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 21:10:11 +0000

This short video shows how we make a 'Gypsy' swing from a couple of trees, a rope and a tarp. It's easy to set up and the kids (and adults) enjoy it at any campsite.