Advice needed - Let's Talk Tents / Bike Camping

[dmulk]

Hi All,

In preparation for WeSTOC, I am considering purchasing some camping equipment to carry with me (just in case / for an option other than motel 6).

I am not a big camper and am not sure how I will do camping. TBH, I haven't done any since I was a kid. I have some shoulder and upper back issues due mainly to my work (Carple tunnel type pain) and probably will need to each pain pills each night before bed in order to get moderately comfortable.

That said, I have read all of the camping threads here and am considering the following purchases over the next week:

1 of these:

http://www.campingcot.com/index.php?section=air_spring

1 of these (Comes with a full rain fly, but I'll all purchase the Summer Fly for WeSTOC):

http://www.tentsonsale.com/f4081_detail.html


I don't want to spend a ton of money at this point since I am not sure how I will "take" to camping on a bike.

Has anyone had any experience with this tent? (there was one post about it that looked positive...I think it was the smaller version though...). The 23 X 6 packing size looks great!

I could also use some advice on a good all around sleeping bag. I'll be happy to spend the most money on this since I want to be comfortable.


Also would like a suggestion on:

1) A quick bike cover...not full size... something just to keep the dew off the top of the bike.
2) Should I do the cot thermarest thing or go with mellow's $20 air matress solution? (Love to see this debate...- Mellow got a link to the mattress you use?)


Let the discussion / advice fly!

Thanks!

<D>

[sparkinator]

Motocampers.com is an excellent website that discusses and reviews a lot of the items you are interested in. Mellow in an Admin on that site as well.

Link (http://www.motocampers.com/)

[owlshadows]

Personally, I would only go with the cot if you feel the need to be up off the ground. I've used thermarest for years, they insulate well and are soft enough for me, but I prefer a firmer sleeping surface. The cot will "cradle" you, and perhaps offer less pressure points while sleeping. But it will take up more room on the bike than a thermarest alone.

As far as tents go, size is the major thing to consider. Room to move around in and stand up if you want, and then the folded up and stored size on the bike. If I will be camping in one spot for several days, I take a larger tent. If I will be changing locations often, I take a smaller two man tent that packs up quicker and smaller. And I always have the rain fly here in the Pac.NW.:cool:

[Gem STate ST]

Also check advrider.com very active board with tons of MC campers.

[Imrubicon]

I did Mellows idea on the $20 mattress and it worked very well and for cheap.
Though I do need his air pump still as blowing it up without is a lot harder than I remember from years ago

[Prairie Dog]

Having done a lot of tenting over the years (backpacking and canoeing), I offer my $.02:

1. Go with a ThermaRest mattress rather than the cot, for comfort and packability.

2. Do not cheap out on the tent. Buy as much as you can afford. You get what you pay for. There is nothing that will spoil a trip like a tent that doesn't keep out the rain and bugs. Ventilation is also very important. If you are not sure about how much tenting you will do, see if you can borrow or rent a tent before investing $200 to $400 (CDN) on a good quality tent. My wife and I use a 2 person, 3 season MSR Zoid 2 for backpacking and a 3 person, 4 season Moss Deltoid for canoeing. Moss was a respected American company that no longer exists. MSR bought Moss and still produces good tents (no longer made in USA).

Hope this helps.

[Mellow]

The important thing to remember is you probably won't get it right the first time no matter how many people you ask.. everyone is a little different.

some love the thermorest, I hate it... FOR ME, to get one thick enough to be comfortable, it ends up being so bulky it's not convenient to pack. Also, they are typically too narrow and if you have shoulder issues, even the cot may put you at an angle that is painful, I don't know about those.

So, as far as sleeping on the ground is concerned, you really don't do that you sleep on an air mattress. If you go to wal-mart they have a couple I'd suggest. I have both. One I use if I think I might run into some cold/cool nights. Too thick of an air mattress and your body can't warm the air inside so it tends to draw the warmth from you..

So, for my 'possibly cold' option, I bring a smaller air mattress and fleece sleeping bag that I put the air mattress in - then I sleep on top of that. This has worked well and here's a pic ($10 for bag and $10 for mattress):

http://mellow.smugmug.com/photos/58327424-M.jpg

The two above will fold and roll up to a very small size, the fleece roll is very compressible and the mattress folds down to almost nothing.

Here's (http://www.motocampers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=96) my review on this item.

There is also a twin sized air mattress that is much thicker (10 inches I think) and I typically use it for summer camping. It's very comfortable and you feel like you are at home in your bed. One key to remember about air mattresses at least for me, don't air them up all the way as they are usually too hard and you feel like you're camping on the ground.

The KEY to camping is getting a good night's sleep. Period! If you can't do that, you'll be miserable.

The Tent: Many people differ on this because some are only planning on camping once in a while and some all the time. There's no reason to spend more than $120 on a tent, a very good backpacking sized tent. That should be your limit and get a 2-man tent so you have room inside for your STuff it won't pack much bigger than a 1-man tent for the most part.

If you are only thinking of camping occasionally then this is probably where I'd cut some $$. You can go to wal-mart and spend $50 on a tent for your purposes. The thing to remember about a tent is to see what size the poles are as they are what limit your packing. I have a tent with 18" poles and I put those in the saddlebag as then my tent can conform to wherever I'm packing it.

HERE (http://www.motocampers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20) are some good suggestions when picking a tent.

The Sleeping Bag:
Okay, here is where you want to spend your money. DO NOT be a cheap skate with your sleeping bag. It will save your life if you run into cold weather. Like I said before, if you can't get a good night's sleep, you'll be miserable and if you get on the bike the next day, tired, you might make mistakes.

I have mummy sleeping bags. I have two, a zero degree bag that is synthetic material and doesn't stuff down to a small size and a 40 degree down back that packs down very small. Depending on the weather, I take that bag that should handle all the situations. I'll take the zero degree bag if I'm not sure and the synthetic, if it gets wet, will dry out. If the down bag gets wet, well I've never run into that situation so I don't know what would happen but I do know it would affect my getting a good night's sleep - get the common denominator here?

I hope this helps. I've Moto-Camped for about 5 years and I'm always tweaking this and that but the basics above have changed little. There are things you want to keep with you such as a good LED light, a headlamp is nice to have.

We have an extensive checklist on motocampers.com for things to bring but that has probably more than you need if you are only looking for an occasional night under the stars.

I cannot tell you what will work for you... I can only tell you what has worked for me. I have some back pain from time to time as well as shoulder pain however, when I camp I sleep better than I do at home. I know that's hard to believe but it's true.

It would be good if you could take at least one weekend trip somewhere local with all your gear so you get used to a few things. You need to be able to set up your tent and get into a comfortable situation so you can sleep and buying gear that you haven't even used (backyard doesn't count) would be a mistake in my opinion.

[pretbek]

Great thread, even though I already read a bunch of info on MotoCampers.com, it is nice to see things compiled.

Where can I buy compression bags?
By now I've learned that they are indispensible in packing things small, especially your sleeping bag.
If you can point me to waterproof compression bags, great, but I'll take pointers to any good compression bags.

[Mellow]

None of mine are waterproof. I guess they are water resistant.. but I pack everything into a waterproof bag. The down sleeping bag I have came with it's own compression bag.

They are everywhere, you can go to campmor.com or rei.com and check them out but the real waterproof ones are probably expensive so it's best/cheapest to just get a bag that you'll keep everything in.. I know where you're going with this though and it works well for bikes like the ST where you can strap multiple bags on so why not have the ability to pack up a bag in the rain and know it's fine just sitting there.

There are some like THIS (http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=39297950&memberId=12500226&storeId=226&catalogId=40000000226&langId=-1) you might want to try.

[uptoblackwood]

When I'm riding and camping....solo, I use the Northface Tadpole 23 (only 4.5 lbs.)...a great two person, three season tent. Room for me and some gear. When I'm two up...I use the Northface Stratos tent (only 7.2 lbs.) (discontinued)...a great three season, three man tent. I am not a minimalist (one man tent) when it comes to tents when motorcycle camping. There are smaller/lighter tents that would be great...I just want a little extra space for keeping junk inside the tent. Good tents make camping a whole lot better.
I use several different sleeping bags depending on season. Any good stuff sleeping bad will do the trick. More expensive and better bag = smaller and ligher for packing....but the pad is the most important thing here. I use Thermorest pads. They have several thicknesses, widths and lengths. They all pack fairly small (even the cushy, chushy ones pack much smaller than a cot) so get the one you think will give you the most comfort.
One other comment. If you get this equipment thing right the first time...you will a lot more likely to continue to motorcycle camp. Spending money twice to get it right (with equipment) discourages the effort. Go car camping a few times to make sure "camping" is your thing....

I'm going to pack for a three day camp trip to Arkansas today. I'll try to post images of the packed bags and bike. (if it will stop raining long enough to get this done) :-)

Added images:

1 clothes for 3/4 day trip and compression bag: three polo shirts, one additional riding shirt, two pair socks, three pair underware, breathable shorts for sleeping, summer time...so just a pair of jean shorts.
2 things to pack in hard side bags: tent, sleeping bag, Thermorest pad, camp stove and pans, stove fuel, stuff camp pillow, bag liner, cpmpression bag with clothes....add air pump, extra helmet shield....a few other things to stuff.
3 right bag packed...there's room to stuff more in this bag.
4 left bag packed...again...a bit of room to stuff more in the bag.
5 one of two different dry bags I can use if I need the back seat space for packing.
6 the next two shots are of a very cool dry bag. It has back straps that can be removed (no straps flapping in the wind) top and bottom shots.

In addition...I have a GIVI 52 and on a 3/4 day I usually pack my laptop and a few odds and ends that pack in the topbox.

Forest

[c-lapier]

I switched from a Thermarest to a Coleman twin air mattress & pump <$30@Walmart> and won't go back. If you have back & shoulder pain I don't think you'll like self-inflating mattress's, plus they're more expensive. The air mattress does take up more space in the tent, so I'd move up to a larger <3person> tent.

[silverbub]

you might be interested in these two sleeping bags on sale at campmor.com
i have the down lafuma 600 warm'nlight...and i smile everytime i see the size of that compressed bag...5.5 x 10 inches...sure nice not to have to grunt to get it into either saddle bags or tailbag on bike...takes even less space than the summer fleece $10 bags!...the one kilo lafuma thermolite insulation bag only takes up 7 x 11 inches stuffed & comes with 4 strap compression stuff bag...check them out...you might like...i certainly have!...:03biker:

http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=226&catalogId=40000000226&langId=-1&partNumber=41431&memberId=12500226

http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=226&catalogId=40000000226&langId=-1&partNumber=41433&memberId=12500226

[dmulk]

Excellent Suggestions! Thank you all.

Question on the tent poles: When I read the 'packing dimensions' online, can I assume that this includes the poles?

Thanks again for the suggestions so far.

<D>

[Mellow]

Excellent Suggestions! Thank you all.

Question on the tent poles: When I read the 'packing dimensions' online, can I assume that this includes the poles?

Thanks again for the suggestions so far.

<D>

Yes, as that is the only real determination on how big the 'packed size' will be. You can stuff a tent just like a sleeping bag if you take the poles out. I actually bought a separate bag for my tent with a wider opening so I can pack faster.. takes up a bit more room but it's faster to break down and set back up..

[TPadden]

As far as tents go - I go the opposite route; a free-standing 1 man with vestibule for keeping items outside. I roll up the tent with my thermarest and sleeping bag inside (nothing compresses like down) - there is NOTHING easier or quicker as far as I'm concerned (short of a Bivy).

I've been camping for years and find tents are a lot like garages - the bigger they are the more junk is in them; I really only need enough room for the thermarest and bag and enough headroom to change clothes.

I have a MSR Hubba 1 rolled and ready to go in Florida, and a Sierra Designs Baku 1 rolled and ready to go in Florida. I recommend the Hubba over the Baku - the Baku is about 15 seconds quicker to set up but doesn't vent as well - occasionally a little condensation.

Although set up time may seem unimportant (same goes for simplicity)- at night in the rain I've been in the bag a good 5-10 minutes before guys I've travelled with.

Tom
Gainesville, Mo.
Weeki Wachee, Fl.

[ST1300 Alicia]

I use a Big Agnes sleeping bag and it has no insulation or padding no the bottom. Instead it has a sleeve that you insert an inflatable sleeping pad into. This way you bag never slides off of you sleeping pad. This combination works very well, although it is a bit more expensive at around $300 for a synthetic bag and THERMO-REST Pad. I have a Mountain Hardwear 2 person tent that pack's down very small with 18 inch long poles. Great tent around 300 dollars with footprint. MSR nonstick Black Light Gourmet cook set with teapot, another $100. I got a small single burner Century Matchless stove that uses the standard 16 oz Propane bottles for about $25. My stuff is not cheap, but it has served me well. Thank you REI.

Alicia from the Left Coast

[este1300pilot]

There was a similar thread a few months ago and it resulted in me learning about Hennessy Hammocks, bought one and recently used it on trip.

www.hennessyhammock.com

As long as you have trees, posts or other solid objects to anchor the ends, it is a comfortable, dry and bug proof way to sleep, rolls up small enough to fit in my Corbin Smuggler, along with stakes and extra rope.

I pack a polar fleece blanket and am a good to go for warm weather camping.

Maybe not everyone's solution, but it works for me, more space on the bike for other stuff.:06biker:

[billxp]

I'm by no means an avid camper but did camp out at CTSTOC and needed to pack small because we did travel 2up.

I found its best to look for backpacking stuff.

For a tent Eureka Performance Pinnacle Pass 3XTA (http://www.eurekatent.com/p-64-pinnacle-pass-3xta.aspx). Poles fit in side bag. It fits two air mattresses with room in between.

Coleman Exponent Big Basin 20-Degree Hybrid Sleeping Bag (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009VC81Y/103-6312774-1943813). I hate the mummy bags because I need to move my legs.

Coleman twin air mattress (http://www.coleman.com/coleman/colemancom/detail.asp?product_id=5998M300&categoryid=10080) and a Coleman 4D battery air pump (http://www.coleman.com/coleman/colemancom/detail.asp?product_id=5999E300&categoryid=10080).

I pack the sleeping bag and tent into compression sacks (http://www.seatosummit.com/products/display/37). Its amazing how small I can get that sleeping bag :)

[Bones]

I vote for a Go-Kot, having gotten very wet twice sleeping on a Thermarest, both times in a torrential downpour that didn't make the weather forecast. At Sleeping Giant Provicial Park, the water came rushing down the hillside in the middle of the night and everyone in our vacinity got wet, except those with cots. Even my cousin got wet in a bathtub bottom tent.

My Go-Kot keeps me off the ground. The spring steel legs make it extremely firm (I can't speak for other cot brands in this regard).

Only drawback is it does not fit in the pannier. It does, however, fit in a Baja bag with my tent and camp chair which staps conveniently across the back seat.

Unless you can guarantee you'll never camp in the rain, my advice is to sleep above the ground. That means a cot, a hammock, or self-levatation.

[Raven]

+1 on the Hennessy Hammock!

I have back, shoulder, and knee problems and can NEVER get comfortable in a tent no matter what I bring to lay on. The Hennessy is super comfortable and I actually get a good night's sleep without feeling crippled in the morning. Another plus, being off the ground, you don't have to worry about getting flooded out when it rains!

I've added climbing rings to both ends of the hammock tied to the paracord and have two lengths of 20' climbing webbing. Wrap the webbing around an upright and run the ends through the rings (like d-rings on your chin strap), and you're hung in about 15 seconds. I also carry a couple of climbing 'biners and climbing nuts so I can anchor into rocks if I need to.

The Hennessy takes up less room than a tent and pad or cot and goes up and comes down in less than a minute. I can pack my Hennessy in about the space taken up by a full-face helmet if I stuff it in a sack or I can leave it long and weave it around other gear so it's easy to put it where-ever I have space and I'm not tied to a particular size or shape.

[dmulk]

This looks really cool.... but have you ever not been able to set it up? IE: No trees?

Have you ever had to set it up using the rock mounting you mentioned?

How does it do in the rain? Anyone used one in the rain?

I love hammocks, but I think I would have to see / borrow one to play with before I could feel comfortable relying on it...

Just curious.

<D>


+1 on the Hennessy Hammock!

I have back, shoulder, and knee problems and can NEVER get comfortable in a tent no matter what I bring to lay on. The Hennessy is super comfortable and I actually get a good night's sleep without feeling crippled in the morning. Another plus, being off the ground, you don't have to worry about getting flooded out when it rains!

I've added climbing rings to both ends of the hammock tied to the paracord and have two lengths of 20' climbing webbing. Wrap the webbing around an upright and run the ends through the rings (like d-rings on your chin strap), and you're hung in about 15 seconds. I also carry a couple of climbing 'biners and climbing nuts so I can anchor into rocks if I need to.

The Hennessy takes up less room than a tent and pad or cot and goes up and comes down in less than a minute. I can pack my Hennessy in about the space taken up by a full-face helmet if I stuff it in a sack or I can leave it long and weave it around other gear so it's easy to put it where-ever I have space and I'm not tied to a particular size or shape.

[dmulk]

So I was looking at this model that I posted earlier... (it's a little more rugged....)

http://www.tentsonsale.com/f4160_detail.html


I emailed them to see if they had a summer fly option and they confirmed they did but they also said that they are sold out of this model tent and wouldn't have any more for another 8 MONTHS!!!!

<D>

[Mellow]

Sparkinator was looking at one and posed the question on MotoCampers and found a factory 2nd Eureka pinnacle pass 3 man tent. For $103. I would get this one as it's a great tent.

http://www.eurekacampingctr.com/eureka/product.asp?s%5Fid=0&dept%5Fid=3057&pf%5Fid=PAAAIAOIAOJLKPDK

If I were looking for a tent right now.. I'd have a hard time passing this one up. It has hooks which will be faster to setup/take down than the apex I have and it's a good name brand and about $60 off.

http://www.campmor.com/images/tents/larger/28102_l.jpg

[sparkinator]

Sparkinator was looking at one and posed the question on MotoCampers and found a factory 2nd Eureka pinnacle pass 3 man tent. For $103. I would get this one as it's a great tent.

http://www.eurekacampingctr.com/eureka/product.asp?s%5Fid=0&dept%5Fid=3057&pf%5Fid=PAAAIAOIAOJLKPDK

If I were looking for a tent right now.. I'd have a hard time passing this one up. It has hooks which will be faster to setup/take down than the apex I have and it's a good name brand and about $60 off.

http://www.campmor.com/images/tents/larger/28102_l.jpg


Dan

I'd have ordered this one if I hadn't already ordered my 2 man of the same model. After looking extensively, this looks like a really good deal. Packs about the same size as a 2 man, has aluminum poles, full size rainfly, room between tent and rainfly for ventilation, and a good reputable Brand in Eureka that they stand behind.

YMMV

Good luck on finding the right one for you.

[Mellow]

Dan

I'd have ordered this one if I hadn't already ordered my 2 man of the same model. After looking extensively, this looks like a really good deal. Packs about the same size as a 2 man, has aluminum poles, full size rainfly, room between tent and rainfly for ventilation, and a good reputable Brand in Eureka that they stand behind.

YMMV

Good luck on finding the right one for you.

Doh.. sorry sparky.. got my facts a little squirrelly.

[sparkinator]

Doh.. sorry sparky.. got my facts a little squirrelly.

I wasn't posting to correct your post, only to confirm what you said about the tent. LOL

[Raven]

Setting up a Hennessy in the rain is easy and everything stays nice and dry under the fly. Some people carry their fly separate and set it up first and then set up the hammock underneath. I usually keep mine altogether and use "skins" to pack and unpack.

As far as the climbing nuts go, I've only had to do that once (I was out hiking) and even then only on one end. I set the nut in a crease, hooked the 'biner to the nut loop and then hooked the 'biner to the climbing rings. In the morning it took a little doing to work the nut loose because I didn't have a nut hammer to lever it out but it's no big deal.

[Mellow]

I wasn't posting to correct your post, only to confirm what you said about the tent. LOL

No problemo..

[dmulk]

Hmmm.... so what are the down sides to this besides the fact that it is unusable if there isn't a tree or rock around? Size?

Are you totally confined to sleeping in one position all night in one of these? IE: On your back only?

It looks really cool...and would probably be really fun... just curious about the comfort level...

Thanks,

<D>

Setting up a Hennessy in the rain is easy and everything stays nice and dry under the fly. Some people carry their fly separate and set it up first and then set up the hammock underneath. I usually keep mine altogether and use "skins" to pack and unpack.

As far as the climbing nuts go, I've only had to do that once (I was out hiking) and even then only on one end. I set the nut in a crease, hooked the 'biner to the nut loop and then hooked the 'biner to the climbing rings. In the morning it took a little doing to work the nut loose because I didn't have a nut hammer to lever it out but it's no big deal.

[dmulk]

If I go for a ground tent... I think it has to be at least a 3 person. I like to have space in the tent to move around.

I stopped at the local sporting / camping store on the way home from work tonight and they had some really cool 1 and 2 person tents....really simple.... but I don't think it will fit the twin air matress (that looks promising)..... I think Wally World has a coleman for $14 right now....


Decisions....decisions....


<D>


Sparkinator was looking at one and posed the question on MotoCampers and found a factory 2nd Eureka pinnacle pass 3 man tent. For $103. I would get this one as it's a great tent.

http://www.eurekacampingctr.com/eureka/product.asp?s%5Fid=0&dept%5Fid=3057&pf%5Fid=PAAAIAOIAOJLKPDK

If I were looking for a tent right now.. I'd have a hard time passing this one up. It has hooks which will be faster to setup/take down than the apex I have and it's a good name brand and about $60 off.

http://www.campmor.com/images/tents/larger/28102_l.jpg

[ST1300 Alicia]

Just keep an eye on how much room it takes up on the bike and how much it weights. Some of that inexpensive stuff is very bulky and heavy.

Alicia from the Left Coast.

[Raven]

Hmmm.... so what are the down sides to this besides the fact that it is unusable if there isn't a tree or rock around? Size?

Are you totally confined to sleeping in one position all night in one of these? IE: On your back only?

It looks really cool...and would probably be really fun... just curious about the comfort level...

Thanks,

<D>

I find it much more comfortable than a tent and sleeping on the ground. I tend to sleep either on my back or side when in the hammock. If you're a stomach sleeper, you'd probably find a hammock uncomfortable.

[ST Dan]

I'm looking at getting this cot.... http://www.aerostich.com/catalog/US/High-Tech-Cot-p-18894.html

kinda pricey, but it packs up small, and is supposed to be comfy

[dmulk]

So I went to wally world last night and found the Ozark fleece bed roll / sleeping bag and also picked up a coleman twin air mattress (with attached carry case). Even though the roll won't fit the mattress I have, it should allow for me to put it between the mattress and the ground for extra insulation or if it is a particularly warm night, I should be able to use it as a light bag.... thanks for the suggestion Joe!

I am impressed with how small the box for the mattress is and *concerned* that I'll never be able to get it that small again.... :/

Also picked up some good DEET bug spray and a really tiny LED lantern. Went with the Ozart rechargeable pump for the mattress. The pump was really small and was only $15.

It has a cigarette adaptor and wall plug for running on AC....it shows that it has an 8AMP draw potential. Since the power port on my ST is only rated at 2AMPs, obviously I wouldn't want to power it using this port....but is it ok to leave it charging for a couple hours?

I would think that charging wouldn't draw nearly as much as with the pump running.....right?

Now I have to make a decision on the bag and the tent.....

<D>

[Mellow]

You can ditch the box the matress came it.. just roll it up or fold it, squeezing the air out then close the valve when you've got it as flat as you like.. You can refold or roll it to the shape you want depending on what you're packing it into..

I've used the rechargeable pump on about 3 fills for the twin and quite a few on the other smaller mattress... I have to think it's not going to draw the same amps recharging as it would running.. Since you are only planning on camping a few nights it would be good to always plug it in the hotel room so it's fully charged for you.. I've left mine in the garage for a few days and then took it out and it still had enough umph to fill the twin..

You could also plug it into some campsites or bathrooms if your site is non-electric.

[dmulk]

The Coleman mattress I got has the attached "Wrap" / "Bag" which looks really cool and should perform well (hopefully). :)


Thanks again for the help so far. :)

<D>

[Texas]

My wife and I are preparing for our first camping trip on the ST. We have our tent set up in the house (3 man, 7x7), and we just picked up a nice queen size air matress at Wal Mart for $27, and that included two blow up pillows and a pump. We also picked up a queen size air matress bedding set at Wal Mart for $27 that includes the sheet, pillow cases and comforter. We won't be taking comforter for summer use. Instead, we plan on just getting another queen size sheet to throw over us. If it gets colder during the night, we can throw on one of those very thin emergancy blankets.

I also want to get some compression bags. Does anyone know of a local store that has them cheap? I know places like REI has them, but they are quite pricey. Does Wal Mart carry them?

Texas

[dmulk]

My wife and I are preparing for our first camping trip on the ST. We have our tent set up in the house (3 man, 7x7), and we just picked up a nice queen size air matress at Wal Mart for $27, and that included two blow up pillows and a pump. We also picked up a queen size air matress bedding set at Wal Mart for $27 that includes the sheet, pillow cases and comforter. We won't be taking comforter for summer use. Instead, we plan on just getting another queen size sheet to throw over us. If it gets colder during the night, we can throw on one of those very thin emergancy blankets.

I also want to get some compression bags. Does anyone know of a local store that has them cheap? I know places like REI has them, but they are quite pricey. Does Wal Mart carry them?

Texas


When I was at Walmart last night, I saw two types of compression bags.... both under 10 bucks.

One was a coleman and one was by Ozark (I think).

They were small packages and easily missed where they were hanging.... they were next to the bug spray....


<D>

[Texas]

Thanks Dan. I will go pick a couple of them up after work.

Texas

[dmulk]

No worries, brotha.

Oh, and you might want to consider that Ozark light bag that Mellow rec. I could see it coming in handy if you got a "chilly" night where you were camping and the sheets weren't doing enough.

They're cheap insurance and pack small for $10

Good luck!

<D>

[Texas]

Well I went to my local Wal Mart tonight and they said they no longer carry the compression bags because they could not sell them. I went to my local Academy, and they had 9"x20" compression bags for $15 each. I bought 3 of them (different colors to organize). I am going to start getting everything packed into them tomorrow.

Texas

[dmulk]

So I better go swoop on those 10 dollar deals, eh?

<D>

[ChipSTer]

AND you should check out www.motocampers.com (http://www.motocampers.com)(if it hasn't already been mentioned)...
:cool:

[Dorian]

Sparkinator was looking at one and posed the question on MotoCampers and found a factory 2nd Eureka pinnacle pass 3 man tent. For $103. I would get this one as it's a great tent.

http://www.eurekacampingctr.com/eureka/product.asp?s%5Fid=0&dept%5Fid=3057&pf%5Fid=PAAAIAOIAOJLKPDK

If I were looking for a tent right now.. I'd have a hard time passing this one up. It has hooks which will be faster to setup/take down than the apex I have and it's a good name brand and about $60 off.

http://www.campmor.com/images/tents/larger/28102_l.jpg


Joe, my wife and I happened across that tent when shopping locally at The Sports Basement. (online at http://www.sportsbasement.com/jump.jsp?iShadCat=1531&itemID=8457&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=1542&iSubCat=1548&iProductID=8457) With rebates, coupons, and a sale we got it for $85.00. Took it for a test camping run locally for two nights, worked like a champ! Without the rainfly on you have no privacy since it is about 75% mesh, but the ventilation is tops even with the rainfly on. And although the marketing materials make it seem brightly colored we noticed that it blends in nicely with nature.

With the rainfly on you have an incredible storage area in the vestibules. If you are caught in a serious down-poor stay inside until the rain slows down.... unzipping the entry area on the rain fly allows the rain to come inside even if its just raining straight down. No big deal, but something to be aware of.

We carry a couple of down sleeping bags, the tent, ultralite tent pad, two Thermarest Prolite 3s sleeping pads, single burner, fuel, lantern, ceiling fan and light for the tent, pots, pans and dishes in a back pack that sits on the back seat of the wing. I can carry that backpack for about a two mile hike before I start wishing I had something lighter.

Anyway, saw your picture of the tent and wanted to pass on that we love it. Its about the best bang for the buck that I've found.

[dmulk]

Went over to motocampers and saw the check list.... why do you need a whistle in with your toiletries?

<D>

[Mellow]

I think that's a throw back from Hiking.. kind of a good to have in emergency situations but I personally don't see the need when on a bike.

[dmulk]

Thanks Mellow. Couldn't find a reason to have a whistle in the shower with me... :)

Also thanks for your review of that coleman fan....ordered one for my WeSTOC trip....might be a little warm in Ca if I do end up camping.

So i have to give a kudos to Campmor.com.

I was on their site ordering stuff. I completed an order and sure enough, I would see something else, so by the end of the day, I had 3 orders.... I called them and they happily "fixed" the orders to combine the shipping and answered my questions about some of the products and even offered advice (EX: "When you get the sleeping bag, the stuff pack will be in the bottom of it...inside the bag).

Happy customer support people (called twice to ask questions...etc.).

Very satisfied. It's how a web business should be run.

<D>

[Mellow]

campmor.com is a great place.. you can sometimes find something a buck or two cheaper elsewhere but they have about as much as you'll ever need so, like you found out, one big order yields a bunch of great stuff.

[dmulk]

Shipping is extremely reasonable and the support is awesome... it's worth the few extra bux... :)

Thanks again for the suggestion.

<D>

[Tor]

I vote for a Go-Kot, having gotten very wet twice sleeping on a Thermarest, both times in a torrential downpour that didn't make the weather forecast. At Sleeping Giant Provicial Park, the water came rushing down the hillside in the middle of the night and everyone in our vacinity got wet, except those with cots. Even my cousin got wet in a bathtub bottom tent.

My Go-Kot keeps me off the ground. The spring steel legs make it extremely firm (I can't speak for other cot brands in this regard).

Only drawback is it does not fit in the pannier. It does, however, fit in a Baja bag with my tent and camp chair which staps conveniently across the back seat.

Unless you can guarantee you'll never camp in the rain, my advice is to sleep above the ground. That means a cot, a hammock, or self-levatation.

+1 on the go-cot.

[dmulk]

Ok, I was reading the manual last night for the pump.... it requires 10 hours to charge off of AC (wall outlet) and 1 hour to fully charge from a cigarette light socket...

What is the deal with this?

Will this draw more than 2 amps while charging and drop the power on my bike's battery?



<D>


So I went to wally world last night and found the Ozark fleece bed roll / sleeping bag and also picked up a coleman twin air mattress (with attached carry case). Even though the roll won't fit the mattress I have, it should allow for me to put it between the mattress and the ground for extra insulation or if it is a particularly warm night, I should be able to use it as a light bag.... thanks for the suggestion Joe!

I am impressed with how small the box for the mattress is and *concerned* that I'll never be able to get it that small again.... :/

Also picked up some good DEET bug spray and a really tiny LED lantern. Went with the Ozart rechargeable pump for the mattress. The pump was really small and was only $15.

It has a cigarette adaptor and wall plug for running on AC....it shows that it has an 8AMP draw potential. Since the power port on my ST is only rated at 2AMPs, obviously I wouldn't want to power it using this port....but is it ok to leave it charging for a couple hours?

I would think that charging wouldn't draw nearly as much as with the pump running.....right?

Now I have to make a decision on the bag and the tent.....

<D>

[pretbek]

Ok, I was reading the manual last night for the pump.... it requires 10 hours to charge off of AC (wall outlet) and 1 hour to fully charge from a cigarette light socket...

What is the deal with this?

Will this draw more than 2 amps while charging and drop the power on my bike's battery?



<D>

I don't think you will ever have to fully charge it after the initial charge that you will do at home. It takes several (don't know exactly how many, but guessing more than 3) inflations to deplete the battery. So unless you change campsites more than 3 times, you won't need to charge it at all on the road.
The mattress inflates in a few minutes, so in the very worst case you could use the pump for a few minutes while it is plugged in and you let your bike idle.

[dmulk]

Ok... last on the list.....I need a suggestion on a very compact bike cover.

I have a full bike cover, but I'd like something simple (this is summer). Something that covers the Windscreen, bars, seat and topbox / sidebags...

Do they make 1/2 covers for the ST?

Cheers!

<D>

[c-lapier]

The Traveler is a 1/2 cover that several members of my local BMW club use, it seems much more convienent to use than the full cover that I've got.

[STryder]

I have spent many years in mountaineering and camping out of my kayak and in the last several years have exclusively used a hammock instead of a tent. Lightweight, low volume and easy to set up and store. All you need is something to hang it on. I don't carry a mattress at all anymore and rely on the bag thickness for insulation. Hennesy Hammocks makes an asymetrical design that allows you to sleep flat. They come with mosquito netting and rainfly all in one.

[Raven]

Yeah, another hanger!

From the Hennessy site:
http://hennessyhammock.com/images/hhsea.jpg

And here's one on Mt. Ranier
http://hennessyhammock.com/images/mt_rainier_320x240_ds.jpg

[dmulk]

The Traveler is a 1/2 cover that several members of my local BMW club use, it seems much more convienent to use than the full cover that I've got.

Have you seen them used on an ST? Do you know that they fit?

Sounds like what I am looking for...

<D>

[MidLife]

Have you seen them used on an ST? Do you know that they fit?

Sounds like what I am looking for...

<D>

Pashnit (http://www.pashnit.com/product/geza.html)has a group buy on the Geza Cover still going on right now.

Many here also use the small packing Nelson Rigg UV 2000 (http://www.newenoughhp.com/accessories/covers/nelson_rigg/uv_2000_motorcycle_half_cover.html)

[dmulk]

Pashnit (http://www.pashnit.com/product/geza.html)has a group buy on the Geza Cover still going on right now.

Many here also use the small packing Nelson Rigg UV 2000 (http://www.newenoughhp.com/accessories/covers/nelson_rigg/uv_2000_motorcycle_half_cover.html)


The nelson looks exactly like what I am looking for....can anyone confirm that it fits on an ST?

Thanks Midlife!!


Thanks,

<D>

[MidLife]

The nelson looks exactly like what I am looking for....can anyone confirm that it fits on an ST?

Thanks Midlife!!


Thanks,

<D>

Check out the Forum here (http://www.st-owners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=24560&highlight=UV2000)

[dmulk]

Thanks ML!

[dmulk]

SO I purchased some seam sealer that I will probably apply the first day I camp.

I am a little confused.... do I apply the sealer on the inside seams of the tent or the outside seams?

Also, I purchased a fairly cheap tent for right now, I will upgrade once I figure out if this is something I am going to do more of.....anyway....I would like to apply some water proofing to the tent....

Can someone rec. some spray on or wipe on stuff that I can use to coat the tent and rain fly with?

Thanks,

<D>

[Mellow]

I've always applied it to the outside. But never had a problem with any of my
tents in the rain. I didn't even start sealing seams until earlier this year when
someone at motocampers said they did it once a season.

I believe sparying the entire tent is overkill as the seams would be the major source of any leak. You could set it up in the back yard, get in and turn on the sprinklers just to see how well it handles.. better now than when you're in the middle of nowhere.

[Trekker]

I agree with Joe... Even though it's a cheap tent, it should provide some level of water protection out of the box. I suggest since this is new to you that setting up the tent in the yard before you leave would be helpful. Then you can take some time to seal the seams, which is an easy job. And you can apply the sealer on either side.

If you really want to add some more waterproofing, get a can of Camp Dry spray and concentrate on the tent floor first. Then pay some attention to the side of the tent where the rain fly does NOT cover. This is useful for those tent designs with a smallish rain fly (good designs have the fly come down closer to the ground for decent protection). Do NOT spray the mesh fabric as that needs to breathe.

I remember one backpacking trip, my buddy hadn't kept up on his tent maintenance and was trying to seal the seams from the inside during a downpour.... he got wet! LOL

[dmulk]

Yeah....think I will do this on Sat.... Now.... where do I find a yard..... :)

<D>

[Raven]

If you don't have a yard, depending on the size of the tent, you could set it up in your living room (depending on the size of your living room).

:D

[motomac]

I've set mine up in the living room to dry after a wet trip more than once!!!!

[dmulk]

You all are assuming I have a living room.... :)

Heading over to a neighbors tomorrow night to set it up, seal it and leave it for a day to dry.

my condo is tiny....750sqft. No space to set it up with all my junk...

<D>

[motomac]

My tent will actually fit on my Queen sized bed. Doesn't take up a whole lot of room.

[Diggers1300]

And don't forget to seam seal the fly! On one of my tents I forgot to seal the rainfly. You could see the water dripping through the seams onto the mesh areas of the tent. And mesh ISN'T waterproof. Luckily I had a small tarp that I was able to manuever between the tent and the fly so the water would run off.

That made for an interesting few minutes. Thank God I pull a Uni-go and had room for the extra tarp. :bow1:

[dmulk]

Diggers: Are you of the opinion that I should seal the inside of the seams or outside?

Thanks,

<D>

[Texas]

I've set mine up in the living room to dry after a wet trip more than once!!!!


I have set mine up in the living room several times, and not once has it gotten wet :lol:

Texas

[sparkinator]

Diggers: Are you of the opinion that I should seal the inside of the seams or outside?

Thanks,

<D>

The seams on my tent fly were taped on one side. I sealed all of the seams opposite the taped side. On the tent, I sealed all seams that were not covered by the fly. Again, all of them were taped on one side and I sealed the opposite side.

Mine was a brand new tent also. Sealing seams was just cheap insurance in my book.

[Diggers1300]

Mine were not taped at all. I sealed both sides of the seam. I'm of the same opinion that it is cheap insurance.

[dmulk]

Mine were not taped at all. I sealed both sides of the seam. I'm of the same opinion that it is cheap insurance.


Ok... this is good to know. I am of the same oppinion. Insurance.

It's a brand new tent, but the manual still recommended it.

<D>

[Raven]

my condo is tiny....750sqft. No space to set it up with all my junk...

<D>

Not much smaller than my 900sf house!
(member of the small house society) (http://www.resourcesforlife.com/groups/smallhousesociety/)

[dteel]

I love all this talk about cots, I'll bet everyone featured in this thread would last less than 2 seconds under my bulk.

Dan, I have the UV2000 XL from Nelson Riggs, you seen it at CreSTOC. I really like it, it's easy to set up and packs small. Waterproof too. Get it you will like it.

[MidLife]

Ok... this is good to know. I am of the same oppinion. Insurance.

It's a brand new tent, but the manual still recommended it.

<D>

The other way is to just go camping. And later, back home, patch up whatever spots where you might see water seeping in, if any.

If rain is menacing when you set up, make sure you pick a spot with good drainage and take great care of setting up your footprint (ground cloth) properly. The best waterproofing won't help if this is not taken care of.

[dmulk]

The other way is to just go camping. And later, back home, patch up whatever spots where you might see water seeping in, if any.

If rain is menacing when you set up, make sure you pick a spot with good drainage and take great care of setting up your footprint (ground cloth) properly. The best waterproofing won't help if this is not taken care of.


hmmmm......ground cloth?

[Mellow]

IMO.. a ground cloth won't help much for waterproofing.. it's more to protect your tent floor from rocks, sticks etc that might puncture it.. it is an additional moisture barrier but I've heard just as many stories of a ground cloth holding water as keeping it away from a tent..

Your tent's floor should be waterproof enough.. I was in a toad-strangler in Houston this year.. started raining at 2am and never stopped - complete downpour the entire time.. It didn't matter where you setup your tent as we were in 4 inches of water... Inside my Eureka, i was completely dry except for a very small seep in one corner but after 5 hrs of this, it was barely even a tablespoon of water..

It was strange, I was in the tent and it felt like I was on a water bed as there was just that much water...

So, and this is merely my choice, I have a blue wal-mart tarp for my ground cloth but it's just for an additional layer of protection for my tent floor and that's about it..

[dmulk]

IMO.. a ground cloth won't help much for waterproofing.. it's more to protect your tent floor from rocks, sticks etc that might puncture it.. it is an additional moisture barrier but I've heard just as many stories of a ground cloth holding water as keeping it away from a tent..

Your tent's floor should be waterproof enough.. I was in a toad-strangler in Houston this year.. started raining at 2am and never stopped - complete downpour the entire time.. It didn't matter where you setup your tent as we were in 4 inches of water... Inside my Eureka, i was completely dry except for a very small seep in one corner but after 5 hrs of this, it was barely even a tablespoon of water..

It was strange, I was in the tent and it felt like I was on a water bed as there was just that much water...

So, and this is merely my choice, I have a blue wal-mart tarp for my ground cloth but it's just for an additional layer of protection for my tent floor and that's about it..

Wow... you are hardcore! I'd be throwing in the towel and heading to a motel. I am not that cool.... :)

<D>

[MidLife]

D,

As usual, Mellow's explanations are clearer....

That's the point I was trying to make: a ground cloth set up improperly will work against you, and can channel water into your tent.

A ground cloth can be a tarp, like Mellow's, if you go the cost efficient way. It is called a footprint when sold by the manufacturer of the tent to match the exact dimensions of the tent (and sold at astronomical prices too!). You have to be careful how you set up the tarp (many advices on this board or Mellow's motocamping site) to avoid it collecting water in a rainpour.

But ironically, an affordable tent has a better chance to stand being set up without a ground cloth than some of the pricier ones. Often what a higher price buys you is a much lighter tent but also much lighter materials which may have high tech tear resistance but are easier to puncture than what you might have on your more affordable tent. The light "high tech" tents are better set up with their matching (expensive) footprint.

This is ironical because there is an oz by oz competiton between the top tent makers. So they avertise tent weight without the bags and a few other things to beat the other guy, and then sell you the relatively heavy footprint as a very costly option, not counted in the total weight, although you have to have it. This is playing games in my book, You are better off with a tent like yours.

Mellow is also pointing out another classic of camping: leaks in the corners. This is often where a tent starts to leak, a lot of stitching there, or several layers bound together, and tension from the stake's straps. So if you insist on waterproofing before you go, do the corners first. Otherwise, as Mellow mentions, you will not have massive infiltrations of water (unless you do not follow the tarp set up advices) anyway. Just make a note where the water is seeping in from and take care of sealing these areas later, when you do not have anything else to do.

This is why I advised not to worry about it too much, but make sure your tarp (if you use one) doesn't work against you, and also do not set up your tent in a "bath tub" type spot.








IMO.. a ground cloth won't help much for waterproofing.. it's more to protect your tent floor from rocks, sticks etc that might puncture it.. it is an additional moisture barrier but I've heard just as many stories of a ground cloth holding water as keeping it away from a tent..

Your tent's floor should be waterproof enough.. I was in a toad-strangler in Houston this year.. started raining at 2am and never stopped - complete downpour the entire time.. It didn't matter where you setup your tent as we were in 4 inches of water... Inside my Eureka, i was completely dry except for a very small seep in one corner but after 5 hrs of this, it was barely even a tablespoon of water..

It was strange, I was in the tent and it felt like I was on a water bed as there was just that much water...

So, and this is merely my choice, I have a blue wal-mart tarp for my ground cloth but it's just for an additional layer of protection for my tent floor and that's about it..

[pointpergame]

I just got back from two weeks MC camping. I also have neck problem and am getting too old to sleep on the ground.
Thermarest worked for me. If was precisely thick enough to keep me from touching the ground.
I used a Sirius(2) that cost me $120 on sale. I have a few tent suggestions.
1) Take a 2-man because you can take everything inside. A good idea when it rains in the west or deposits dew in the east. + critter security.
2) Buy or make a "footprint" It protects the underside of the tent and keeps it clean. You don't have any control over the surface on which you pitch.
3) Check that you have enough pegs to stretch out the vestibule. For some reason the tent accountants are making you buy these extra. Sometimes an extra guy line is just the answer to a ventilation or wetness problem, so two spares are cheap insurance.

4) I loved camping and the feeling of independence. Sometimes there simply isn't a town where you need it to be.

[MidLife]

Wow... you are hardcore! I'd be throwing in the towel and heading to a motel. I am not that cool.... :)

<D>

Well, it is not unusual to set up in beautiful weather and for a storm to pull through while you sleep! That's how many people (including me) get caught. You are tired in the evening and the skies look clear, so you save a few minutes by not fully staking your tent. Then, when the storm hits, you swear you will never do that again, while you pray for the tent not be blown away. And then at the next stop, sure enough, you'll do exatly the same thing, until the day your tent is really blown away!

There is something though about staking your tent properly, sleeping through a storm and in the morning to find out that many others who haven't been quite that careful had to take refuge in their car!

[dmulk]

I love all this talk about cots, I'll bet everyone featured in this thread would last less than 2 seconds under my bulk.

Dan, I have the UV2000 XL from Nelson Riggs, you seen it at CreSTOC. I really like it, it's easy to set up and packs small. Waterproof too. Get it you will like it.


Received it today!!

<D>

[dmulk]

Hmmm....good point.

I went through a "dry run" (no pun!) and I noticed in the manual for the tent that it stated to use guy lines in windy conditions.....were the guy lines and extra stakes included? Nope.

I'll be heading to Walmart to pick up some extra stakes.

Any recommendations on stake type?

Last time i was there, I noticed a "dished" / Bladed style stake.... it was steel (or aluminum?) and they were twice as long as the cheep "hanger" style stakes that came with the tent I got....

How about guy line? Fishing line?


Midlife / mellow: Thank you for your suggestions. I'll be grabbing a tarp to cut to size at Walmart this weekend.

From what I am reading...it looks like the ground cloth should actually be smaller than the base of the tent - tent over laps a little on the edges?


<D>



<D>


I just got back from two weeks MC camping. I also have neck problem and am getting too old to sleep on the ground.
Thermarest worked for me. If was precisely thick enough to keep me from touching the ground.
I used a Sirius(2) that cost me $120 on sale. I have a few tent suggestions.
1) Take a 2-man because you can take everything inside. A good idea when it rains in the west or deposits dew in the east. + critter security.
2) Buy or make a "footprint" It protects the underside of the tent and keeps it clean. You don't have any control over the surface on which you pitch.
3) Check that you have enough pegs to stretch out the vestibule. For some reason the tent accountants are making you buy these extra. Sometimes an extra guy line is just the answer to a ventilation or wetness problem, so two spares are cheap insurance.

4) I loved camping and the feeling of independence. Sometimes there simply isn't a town where you need it to be.

[sparkinator]

The stakes I got looked like big nails with a plastic slide on the top that actually hold the tent loops on the stake.

As far as guy line, mine came with some nylon rope for that.

Wal-Mart will be able to fix you up on both of those.

[pointpergame]

Pegs: I have always preferred the "J-hooked" ones in aluminum. You can drive them even with the ground surface and pull them back out using the hook on a second peg. I end up stumbling over the eye-bolt ones when my bladder and I are wandering around in the middle of night

P.s., A self-standing tent lets you move it into the sun while you cook breakfast. The dew evaporates off quite fast.

[Diggers1300]

How about guy line? Fishing line?


Midlife / mellow: Thank you for your suggestions. I'll be grabbing a tarp to cut to size at Walmart this weekend.

From what I am reading...it looks like the ground cloth should actually be smaller than the base of the tent - tent over laps a little on the edges?
<D>

Fishing line will stretch too much. I wouldn't use it.

With tent setup properly and using a ground cloth, you should not be able to see any part of the ground cloth even if you pick up the sides at little (as in wind blowing it up). If you can see it, water will get between it and the tent bottom.

I have just never had a problem with water coming through the floor on any tent that I've owned. Seems to always come from the seams. Now that I seam seal once a year (and properly set up the tent) I stay dry even in the so-called frog-stranglers.

Preparation is everything!

[dmulk]

Thanks guys.

I set the tent up and seam sealed as well as used a spray on water proofer I got from Big 5.

All this has to do is get me through WeSTOC and it will have paid for itself. :)

<D>

[WestArm Rider]

I've camped extensively for more years than I want to recall, bike, canoe, car and hoof. All I can add to the discussion so far is PILLOW. Makes all the difference over a roll of clothes, packsack or your partner (well, if your partner's a "her" I may reconsider). The best I've found is a small sofa pillow, still a bit bulky but worth it. Many have laughed when I bring it out but most are convinced after their first sore night........

[pointpergame]

I second the pillow.
Bamarider's tour logs convinced me to take the trouble. I took one from home of soft memory foam with a pillow case. It squashed quite well into a spare pack space. On some camping spots given slopes and depressions and for reading before bed I put my tank bag beneath it for the perfect elevation.

[dmulk]

I grabbed one of these:

http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=39241643&memberId=12500226&storeId=226&catalogId=40000000226&langId=-1

Anyone else try these?

Mine seems to just be "clumps" of thermawrest foam..doesn't seem like it will be very good....but I'll see how it does on the trip. If it doesn't perform, I'll throw down on a full memory foam pillow.

Cheers!

<D>

[MidLife]

Thanks guys.

I set the tent up and seam sealed as well as used a spray on water proofer I got from Big 5.

All this has to do is get me through WeSTOC and it will have paid for itself. :)

<D>

<D>

Well done. But now you have the mostest waterproofest set up of the pack and people know it. They will know where to seek refuge when their tent leaks like a sieve in the middle of the storm!

I read only know that you are preparing for WeSTOC. You may want to check with people familiar with this part of the country, but bearproofing maybe even more important than waterproofing up there!

[Mellow]

I've camped extensively for more years than I want to recall, bike, canoe, car and hoof. All I can add to the discussion so far is PILLOW. Makes all the difference over a roll of clothes, packsack or your partner (well, if your partner's a "her" I may reconsider). The best I've found is a small sofa pillow, still a bit bulky but worth it. Many have laughed when I bring it out but most are convinced after their first sore night........

I actually took and old cheap mummy sleeping bag and cut the foot part of it off and sewed it up... after putting some more stuffing in it and shaping it. That way, it would stuff/compress just like my bag. I had a thermorest pillow but it was always sliding around and the shape didn't fit in my sleeping bag well. It was okay for the most part but this old-sleeping-bag-hack-job works best for me... So, if you have one laying around you aren't ever planning on using, it's a cheap option that works very well.

[Mellow]

<D>

Well done. But now you have the mostest waterproofest set up of the pack and people know it. They will know where to seek refuge when their tent leaks like a sieve in the middle of the storm!

I read only know that you are preparing for WeSTOC. You may want to check with people familiar with this part of the country, but bearproofing maybe even more important than waterproofing up there!

#1 way to bearproof your tent... Don't bring food into your tent.. in fact, don't bring anything with scent into your tent (farts excluded). Was told that even chapstick is a no no at yellowstone NP. Use the metal containers and put all your toiletries, drinks, food, etc in that. That's pretty much all you can do.. I also wouldn't leave it in your bike as bear don't think much of plastic, they'd rip it open like we open a bag of chips.

I rarely bring food with me unless I know it's just for that evening and will be gone. Some haul around lots of food but I just haven't gotten very comfortable with doing that.

[BigTom]

I haven't added to this, yet, because I don't camp much off the bike. But I used to pack and camp a lot.

Bears and food: A piece of light nylon rope, a mesh nylon bag and a tree limb, away from your tent. Put ALL your stuff in the bag, throw the rope over the limb, and haul it up above 10'. The secret is to put it about as far away from the tent as you can. Can actually be a good 'bait' to keep Yogi away from your tent.

I have tended to use my 'dirty clothes bag' (a pillowcase, usually) for the pillow. May have to change that theory, too:)

Thanks for the thread, Dan and all. I too am deciding that I may resume some camping options. I own a tent and a bag, the 'cushion' discussion is it for me! The reason I quit when I did is my creaky old body just couldn't take the ground any more:) I used to use a 'bivi bag' quite often, would just scoop out a little (dirt, rocks) for my hips. NO MAS:)

[Mellow]

The real key for camping in bear country is this...

Camp with a guy that has a limp... You don't have to run fast, you just have to run faster than the other guy.. .LOL

[wengland]

The Eureka Apex 2 (or clones) is dinky when rolled up - fits in a saddlebag - but gives you plenty of room inside for you and gear. $95

http://www.eurekatent.com/p-56-apex-2.aspx

The Slumberjack line of sleepingbags are the best price / performance / size combination - availble for less than $100. Also can fit in a saddlebag.

A twin air mattress and 12v air pump from X-mart is the best bet for ground protection. The cot is nice, but heavy, and if you sleep on your side you whack your knees on the side rails. Outch.

The Jet Boil stove with coffee press is the best deal for quick food and morning coffee. Small light and works damn well for heating water. $100.

That's about the extent of my camping gear - if you're going to be out for a few days, find a 24" long folding chair or a Kermit chair.

Nicest bit? I get it all in the hard luggage, nothing strapped to the seat (except the chair).

Left bag: Clothes
Right Bag: sleeping bag, tent, tools
Top Case: Maps, air pump, camera, air mattress, food as needed.
Tank bag: Tunes, maps, water bag.

[dteel]

The reason I quit when I did is my creaky old body just couldn't take the ground any more:) I used to use a 'bivi bag' quite often, would just scoop out a little (dirt, rocks) for my hips. NO MAS:)

I second that Tom, but like you I'm going to give it a whirl. I've only committed to one night and if it goes well, I'm willing to give it another shot. The good news is that I've so far spent less than a single nights cash at a cheap hotel. If things go well, I might just save even more money. Only time will tell.

[dteel]

The real key for camping in bear country is this...

Camp with a guy that has a limp... You don't have to run fast, you just have to run faster than the other guy.. .LOL

Great, I've just been reducedto bear bait.... Thanks Joe!

[dmulk]

Ok...should I use the "bag" the tent came in or a compression bag?

It is a tight fit when I pack everything in the bag that the tent came in. It is also a little "long"....it fits on the back seat and sits about midway (about where the handles are) on the saddle bags...

I was thinking about using a compression bag and then I could stick the poles through the compression bag's straps?

It's the last thing I have left to pack! :)


Thanks!

<D>

[Mellow]

I'd pack the poles in the saddlebags if they will fit...

[dmulk]

I'd pack the poles in the saddlebags if they will fit...


Hmmmm...not sure. I'll check that tonight.

What about the tent?

Long, skinny and square OR tall, round and stubby? :)

<D>

[Mellow]

The tent don't matter.. don't even fold it.. just stuff it in a stuff/compression bag and it will be fine. I'd put the poles in the saddlebag so you don't loose them.

[pointpergame]

The tent is often wet in the morning. I always wad it up into its bag so the damp can disperse. Also, I don't put the poles / pegs in with the tent because they might puncture it...a rain leak isn't funny. I find I can also stow them better as separates.

[dmulk]

I am curious.... With the fly off, I notice this tent has a very large "viewable" mesh area on one side of the tent. In a photo from another site, it looked like there was a storm shutter that could be used to block this area off for more privacy....

My question is: Can the big mesh area be blocked off with out using the fly? (In the summer, it would be nice to not use the fly so I could see the stars, but I'd like to have a little more privacy.

Thanks!

<D>


Sparkinator was looking at one and posed the question on MotoCampers and found a factory 2nd Eureka pinnacle pass 3 man tent. For $103. I would get this one as it's a great tent.

http://www.eurekacampingctr.com/eureka/product.asp?s%5Fid=0&dept%5Fid=3057&pf%5Fid=PAAAIAOIAOJLKPDK

If I were looking for a tent right now.. I'd have a hard time passing this one up. It has hooks which will be faster to setup/take down than the apex I have and it's a good name brand and about $60 off.

http://www.campmor.com/images/tents/larger/28102_l.jpg

[billxp]

No there is no way that I know of.

I'll take some photos this weekend at CTSTOC of this tent actually being used.

[dmulk]

That would be awesome Bill! Thanks!

<D>


No there is no way that I know of.

I'll take some photos this weekend at CTSTOC of this tent actually being used.

[dmulk]

So I think I finally found my tent upgrade.

I am convinced that I am going to really enjoy moto-camping and am planning on investing in a nice tent upgrade.

Here is the tent I am probably going to purchase unless someone talks me out of it:

http://www.eurekatentscanada.com/products/tents/product.php?lang=en&menu=3&cat=122&type=1&prod=127

23012



Yes, it seems to only be sold in Canada, but with a 1-1 exchange right now it really doesn't matter.

Anyway, if any of you knucks can find it cheaper than this place, I'd appreciate it:

https://www.sirmailorder.ca/show_prod.php?product_id=261097&cat_id=1&subcat_id=21&PHPSESSID=7a531ba0f9a1d6a7beb7e1ee81d765ac


I really like the lay out of this tent as well as the size / rainfly configuration.

Cheers!

<D>

[Raven]

Hey,

Have you seen the new Eureka N!ergy tents? They come with a battery pack that you can charge up while you're riding and then plug into the tent at night to run lights and a fan.

http://www.eurekatent.com/p-74-nergy-1310.aspx#

(still stickin' with my Hennessey Hammock, though)

[Mark]

I have seen that tent at campmor.com; but, they don't have it right now...

Mark

[dmulk]

I have seen that tent at campmor.com; but, they don't have it right now...

Mark



Yeah, apparently it is discontinued here in the US....only available in Canada.

I'm going to call campmor thought and see if they have any laying around in the warehouse....

<D>

[dmulk]

Hey,

Have you seen the new Eureka N!ergy tents? They come with a battery pack that you can charge up while you're riding and then plug into the tent at night to run lights and a fan.

http://www.eurekatent.com/p-74-nergy-1310.aspx#

(still stickin' with my Hennessey Hammock, though)

Looks cool, but @ ~34lbs, I don't think I want to use this for motocamping.... :)

<D>

[ST1300 Alicia]

You don't have anywhere on that bike that a 35# tent will fit. I'll bet that Tent won't fit in the trunk of a Corolla.

[Mark]

Oh come on!
The Eureka site says: Pack Size 8.5" x 31".
It would fit on the back seat... you wouldn't be able to see anything else in the mirrors; but, it would fit!
And Finewest would love to have you bring a tent that large!!! :lol:

:D

Mark

[Mark]

Now the Eureka Freedom is interesting...
Floor Size 6'6" x 11'8"
Pack Size 10" x 23"
Min Weight 16 lbs. 8 oz.

And we could park our bikes inside and still have room for both of us to sleep in there as well!!!

Mark

[dmulk]

I called Campmor and it looks like they don't have any left. These are still available in Europe and Canada, but not the US. Unless someone can point me to a site that has them here in the US, I'll probably order from Canada.

Here are some other shots of the El Capitan 4 tent:

http://www.gear-up.com/galleryshow.php?gid=356


I really like the layout and the construction material. It really seems to be a better construction (seems like it would last longer) than most tents.

The basic floor plan is my favorite though. It has good ventilation but would be private enough to use without the fly in the summer. (Something I had reservations about with the 3XTA because of the liberal use of mesh.)

Let me know what you all think:



Cheers,

<D>

[Mark]

I got this one (http://www.rei.com/product/731430)and am pretty happy with it.
I have used it without the fly and it did fine even in a strong wind (froze my a** off at DesertSTOC! :) due to wind and the temp dropped like a rock that night).

Packed in the side bag once too... but, you have to pack everything else around it because it only fit at a diagonal.

The fly can also be used alone with this one... nice sunshade...

Mark

[tarfin]

Tough to go wrong with one ofthese (http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=39192827&memberId=12500226).

Inexpensive, well-made and pack nice and small.

[dmulk]

Well, I just upgraded my tent in preparation for SeaSTOC. I pulled the trigger on one of these:


http://www.gear-up.com/galleryshow.php?gid=356


http://www.wildernesssupply.ca/product.php?sSID=44dcccaa7617911a87b93bc7070a5080&nID=366

Thanks for all of your help!!

Cheers!

<D>

[motomac]

You definately got anice tent. Can't go wrong with a Eureka product.

[Mark]

Nice tent...

I think you should have purchased it when the Loon and Washington were not 1:1... :)

Looking forward to seeing it at SeaSTOC!

Mark

[dmulk]

Nice tent...

I think you should have purchased it when the Loon and Washington were not 1:1... :)

Looking forward to seeing it at SeaSTOC!

Mark

Yeah, I think I should have purchased it when it was still @ Campmor. I really like the Sand color more than the Blue....but I am ok with Blue.

I really dig the layout and fly configuration of this model.

See you all in a month!

<D>

[dteel]

I'll bet you're not going to abandon this tent after one use....

Looking forward to seeing it Dan.

[dmulk]

I'll bet you're not going to abandon this tent after one use....

Looking forward to seeing it Dan.


Not on your life. :)

Actually, I originally went cheap on the tent because I didn't want to waste the money on camping if I wasn't going to take to it.

I had such a great time camping on the way to WeSTOC that I plan to do a LOT more camping.

Cheers!

<D>

[ST1300 Alicia]

Dan
I'm glad you decided that you like camping. I'm looking forward to meeting you at SeaSTOC. Maybe some of us can plan some camping trips up in the Sierra Mountains this coming Spring and Summer. Maybe even some light fishing and I'm no Fisher Woman. I'll share with you some of the Ideas I have that make camping easier and more fun for me, If you like. Sea you then!

Remember that I will have a spot reserved for us from 14:00 hrs on Thursday, So that those of us with Friday OFF can come early!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[dmulk]

Sounds good Alicia!

Cheers!

<D>

[sparkinator]

Nice looking tent, Dan! I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

[dmulk]

So, here is a list of my major equipment that I used on my WeSTOC 2007 trip. Everything worked awesome!

The only thing I have replaced is the tent.

I purchased the Eureka El Capitan listed above to replace the $20 cheapy. I will however keep the Cheap Ozark as a backup as it worked really well during the trip and I would rec. it to anyone thinking about moto camping, but isn't sure they want to commit to it yet.

The List:

23837

Thanks!

<D>