 Gear Reviews Okay, car camping won’t solve all life’s problems, but it’s a start. It lets time-crunched hikers roll into camp at dusk and effortlessly set up their site, so they’re poised to tackle big miles the next morning. Families can accommodate their extra gear needs without breaking their backs. And couples can savor a romantic, cushy getaway complete with fluffy beds and shooting stars. Besides, after a few nights in the wild, life’s other problems don’t seem so big after all. Check out all that’s new in the land of cush with these car-camping setups.
LUXURY CAMP Airstream Basecamp with Kelty Tent Extension $19,999; 937-596-6111; www.airstream.com Consider this a low-impact vacation home that moves with you. In the Basecamp trailer, kitchen and sleeping quarters merge into one room. A large tent-like extension off the back nearly doubles the space. The convertible bed-benches are a bit short for tall campers, but at 52 inches wide, they’re roomier than the cots found in larger rigs. Weighing in at 2,000 pounds (much lighter than most trailers), the Basecamp can be towed by small SUVs without hogging too much fuel.
Brunton Wind River Range $429; TK; www.brunton.com Most portable ranges can’t hold a flame to Brunton’s newest offering. This heavy-duty stainless-steel cooker generates a burger-searing 30,000-BTUs from its two propane burners. It works with camp-size propane canisters, but a hose attachment for a large propane tank ensures a lasting flame. At nearly 24 pounds, the stove folds open, offering up a cooking surface on one side and a broad work/chopping surface on the other.
Lafuma RSX Recliner, $189; TK; www.lafuma.com At 16.5 pounds, the beefy RSX is a portable La-Z-Boy. It lets you recline while cradling your body in a soft pad suspended from a durable aluminum frame—meaning there are no uncomfortable cross bars prodding your you-know-what.
Coleman Hot Water on Demand $179; TK; www.coleman.com Anyone who says solar showers provide enough warm water is a liar. Here’s the real deal: Using a small propane canister and a rechargeable battery, the HWoD pumps water out of a basin (or the included 5-gallon bladder) and instantly heats it before it pours out of a faucet atop the unit. Add the optional shower hose and spray nozzle and you’ll be singing for everyone in the campground. The unit is heavy (26 pounds) but worth every pound (and penny).
GSI Pioneerware Table Set $45 (12-piece setting); TK; www.gsioutdoors.com What’s camping without the classic red-with-white-speckled enamel plates and bowls? GSI keeps the tradition alive with its stainless-steel-rimmed Pioneerware. The 12-piece set includes plates, bowls and mugs for four people. Also available in blue or green.
REI Kindercone Sleeping Bag $59; TK; www.rei.com Kids love the Kindercone for its warmth (rated to 30 degrees), comfortable wide mummy cut and fun glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls and patterns; parents appreciate its modest price, versatile Quallofil insulation and durable construction. The only downside: When kids grow taller than 5 feet, they gotta give it up! © Copyright 1999-2006 by Hooked on the Outdoors www.ruhooked.com |
