Setting up Campfires

Building a good fire for your camping trip isn’t just a fancy party trick to impress your fellow campers. Most camping gear today makes traditional campfire building look paltry and tedious, knowing how to build a proper camp fire can spell the difference between life and death in extreme circumstances.

In the older, simpler, and less complicated days, when matches and gas torches were but luxuries, building a proper camp fire was essential to any outdoor activity. This was where everyone sought warmth against the cold environs, and where people found the means to cook a warm dinner for everyone. Night temperatures can be very unforgiving, and camp fires provided a means for everyone to gather around and warm up.

Aside from the heat, camp fires also repelled wild animals. Wild dogs, lions and other beasts are not keen to approach a campfire. That is why camp fires are always left burning well into the night.

While the art of making campfires has been all but forgotten – partly because matches have begun to seem more convenient – campfire making as a skill is still relevant and essential to any camper’s repertoire of tricks.

First of all, the secret to starting camp fires is to start them quickly. You can only do this if you have a firm grasp of what is needed to start a fire – heat, oxygen, and fuel.

Oxygen, while around us, is not always readily available to the campfire, you may have to arrange the fuel in such a way that it has adequate air supply. You may also supplement this supply by blowing into a cinder, or fanning an already blossoming flame.

Heat is usually generated for campfires by friction. You will probably use an assortment of methods to generate this heat – rubbing two sticks together, using flint stones, and other techniques. However, this won’t give you a glorious fan of flames if you don’t have the right fuel.

Fuel is what keeps your fire burning, and finding the right type of fuel is integral to your efforts at building and maintaining a fire. Building a fire by applying the heat to the logs isn’t going to work. You will need tinder. Tinder is easily combustible materials that will burn quickly and hopefully emit enough heat and gases to start a fire with larger pieces of wood.

Ideal tinder includes dry sticks, bark, dry leaves, and twigs. Use this kindling to start the fire and to help maintain it. But remember that you can only successfully build a fire if the larger, harder to burn pieces of wood burn.

Some common designs of campfires include:

Tepee – tepees are great for quick fires, and last long into the night. It makes use of a lot of tinder, so you will need a good bunch of it. The longer burning wood is placed, balanced against each other vertically around the tinder. This makes sure that the heat and the gases of the tinder are generated in a way to help the larger pieces of wood to burn. It is the perfect fire for boiling water and general purpose campfires.

Pyramid – You build a ‘pyramid’ of logs by laying the logs horizontally on the ground together, then building another layer on top of the next gradually forming a pyramid. Although this type of campfire is a little hard to start up, the advantage of such is that it generates a lot of charcoal that will be useful in the future. It burn pretty well and is quite a stable fire.

Parallel – The parallel fire puts the tinder in between two logs. This is an efficient burning fire since the insides of the log burn too – having the fire and heat going in a good, snug place between two logs.

Star (Indian) – This is the type of fire you usually see on those old Western movies. The logs are laid out like spokes of a wheel. Tinder is placed in the middle. The fire is easy to maintain, although you do have to push each ‘spoke’ of the wheel towards the middle as the fuel burns up.

There are other types of campfires, all with specific purposes. But as with any outdoor skill, creating and maintaining any of them takes a lot of practice to get right. And like mothers usually tell their kids, don’t play with fire. Treat it with respect as it has the power to save and to destroy. Remember to follow safety precautions after using a fire – douse the fire with water or bury the remains of a campfire with dust and dirt. Fires left unattended may cause serious property damage, so always take precautions that nothing that shouldn’t burn gets burned.

Dressing for the weather Take II

Nylon or Polyester?
Nylon has typically been the more popular of the materials used for outdoor wear. This is because it is scratch resistant and can endure the wear and tear of most outdoor activities, plus it is light and breathable. However, polyester, not to be outdone, has steadily become an acceptable compliment or alternative to nylon since it keeps the wearer warmer and absorbs less water than nylon. Look for the new breed of materials – keep with nylon to be safe, the newer polyester kinds do well too.

Keeping you warm
One of the critical needs of people outdoors is apparel that will keep them warm in extreme weather. As mentioned above nylon or polyester coupled with the newer micropore technology does a good job at helping a person stay warm and comfy. However, in more abject frigid weather, you will need extra material to keep you warm.

The greatest issue when choosing camping wear is whether to purchase down or synthetic fill material. Nothing provides comfort and warmth like down, and down is generally recommended for most outdoor camping trips with the family. However, in the event that it rains and your down-filled clothes get wet, it is going to take forever to get them dry. Synthetic fill clothes, on the other hand, give good warmth and dries quickly if ever they get wet. They are a bit heavier in comparison, though.

Fleece is a good in-between solution for your garments. Contrary to intuition, fleece still keeps one warm even when it is damp. It also keeps moisture away from the skin, keeping one dry and comfortable. Plus they are squishy and comfortable to the feel.

When looking for good camping wear, remember that the above mentioned technologies are very helpful in keeping you comfortable throughout camping trips. Look at each alternative and find out how their advantages fit in with your personal camping needs.

Dressing for the weather

Bad clothing decisions on your camping trip can spell doom for any ‘happy family’ camping trip. Just because we all enjoy typically comfortable weather where we live, we can afford to wear pretty much anything we want. However, when venturing into nature for camping trips and treks, everyday wear won’t be enough to protect you or keep you comfortable. Nature isn’t really known to take it easy on those that venture into its extremes.

So for an assuredly enjoyable camping trip, you will want to be fully clothed against the elements. Over the years advances in clothing technology has spawned a lot of camping wear designed to help keep the elements at bay on your camping trips. However, with the glut of clothing choices, it can get a little confusing to find out which clothing best fits your needs.

Here’s a rundown of the stuff you can find off the rack at stores to keep you comfy during your expeditions and the technologies behind them. Knowing their characteristics will help you find out how these technologies can benefit your outdoor life.

The Materials
The most popular materials for camping wear include technologies that allow water to escape the material, but don’t allow any water in. Ever since man started intentionally developing materials for the comfort of campers and trekker alike, the biggest problem they had to face was how to somehow draw moisture away from the surface of the skin so that the camper did not have to wear wet soggy shirts that made for bad temperature control. The new clothing had to accomplish this while keeping moisture out – it had to have some waterproof properties.

In response to this need, developers have unveiled three breakthrough technologies in the field of outdoor and sports apparel – microporous laminates, microporous coatings, and monolithic membranes. All these materials somehow allow water vapor to escape while preventing moisture from settling on the skin. The monolithic technology is particularly interesting since it absorbs water vapor into itself while using body heat to dissipate the vapor. The harder you work, the more heat you make, and the more vapor is dissipated making for an interesting bit of technology.

You may want to check garments nowadays for this or similar technology. This technology helps keep you dry and comfortable, and makes maintaining a good temperature easier – especially in unforgiving cold climes.

How to pick the best sleeping bag

Sleep with Comfort Even on the Road – A Camper’s Guide to Sleeping Bags

The hardest thing about going on camping trips is getting a good night’s sleep. Being out in the woods on the trail will certainly expose you to nature’s worst. While you shelter yourself against the elements with a good tent, only a proper sleeping bag will help give you a good night’s rest to power you up for the next day of activities.

While finding a “be all and cure-all” sleeping bag is virtually impossible, it is however, possible to find a bag that will keep you comfortable for most trips – if not all.

When choosing a sleeping bag, take careful note of your needs. You will have to cater your choice of sleeping bags to the trips you most often make. Also, careful knowledge of the available types of sleeping bags will help you make a good decision regarding a sleeping bag.

The greatest issue when choosing a sleeping bag is whether to purchase a down or synthetic fill sleeping bag. Nothing provides comfort and warmth like down, and down is generally recommended for most outdoor camping trips with the family. However, in the event that it rains and your down-filled sleeping bags get wet, it is going to take forever to get your sleeping bags dry. Synthetic fill bags, on the other hand, give good warmth and dry quickly if ever they get wet. They are a bit heavier in comparison, though.

If your needs revolve around general purpose camping trips, you will want to purchase a three-season sleeping bag. These bags generally have a temperature-comfort rating of 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are a more specialized camper – for instance if you like going camping on specific seasons – you will want to purchase a bag that caters to that season. If you like camping during the cooler seasons, go for sleeping bags that offer more warmth – and if you need a bag for warmer climes, go for breathable bags that keep you cool even during the hot seasons.

Check the bag before purchasing, they will usually have a temperature rating guide so that you can choose the bag suited to your needs. Most winter sleeping gear should be rated for minus 15 to 40 Fahrenheit, while summer sleeping bags should hold up to the 10 to 20 degree Fahrenheit rating.

Here are few things you should look for in a good sleeping bag

1. Material – Most sleeping bags will be made of nylon, or polyester. These are the best kinds of material for sleeping bags. If you are a serious backpacker, try to avoid cotton material – especially the printed ones. If you are taking kids along, you will probably have to concede this point.

For added comfort while sleeping, look for bags that have a lining of taffeta or other non-cotton material. These materials, in comparison to plain nylon or even some cotton lining, are more comfortable, breathe better, and warm quicker.

2. Shape – The mummy shaped sleeping bag is pretty popular nowadays, however, some people find them constricting, especially those that want a lot of space to wiggle around in while sleeping. Mummy shaped bags tend to be snug and comfortable for some people, plus they warm quicker. Rectangular and semi-rectangular bags are great if you want a larger space to sleep in.

3. Accessories and zippers – Make sure the zippers are double-sided and allows for opening on both ends without any hassle. You may want to look out for zipper hooks as well, which prevent the bags from inadvertently opening up accidentally. Also look for insulated draft collars that help seal in the heat around the shoulders and around the neck.

Plus, dark colored bags are advisable since they absorb more heat and are easier to dry out than their lighter colored counterparts.

While all these tips come in handy, you may still want to test the bag itself to see if it fits your lifestyle. Some stores will allow you to test their products before selling them to you. If this is the case, don’t hesitate to jump into a bag to try it out.

With a good sleeping bag, you can look forward to more comfortable nights on your camping trips.

How to pick the best backpack

That’s what most inexperienced campers say. Unknown to them, the choice of bag is no trivial matter as any serious camper will testify. You will never appreciate how a good backpack can benefit your trek until you try going on a major one using an ill-fitting pack.

Take for example the experience of a trekker who went on a trip to the Appalachians in 1994. Instead of an exhilarating camp experience, he had to go home broken and bleeding from the weight of an ill-fitting pack damaging his hips. A decade later – with him a lot wiser and experienced – this hiker, accompanied by a better fitting pack, made 960 miles of terrain – a much greater experience than having your trip cut short due to terrible equipment.

Now you know how important a good pack is, here are a few tips to help you choose a good pack for the journey that lies ahead:

1. Know what you need – hikers and campers vary sharply in camping preferences, some are very minimalist in nature and take only the bare essentials. Others take a lot more equipment on their trips. The amount and type of equipment you bring will definitely shape the decision you make towards what backpack you will need.

You can then do some simple computation on your space needs. Most capable sales representatives can give you the amount of space their bags offer. When doing this try using the measurement for the amount of equipment you take for the longest trip you expect to go on.

2. Is it comfortable – this is probably the most important consideration when choosing a backpack. The goal of every good camping bag is to help campers carry the most amount of weight with the least amount of effort – and inconvenience for that matter.

Good packs distribute weight efficiently, allowing you maximum comfort when carrying the pack. To know how well a pack does this, you will have to test the pack itself. Most camp stores will have sand weights to place in the pack so that you can test how the pack holds up to the weight. You will have to carefully consider how comfortable these packs are before even considering them for purchase.

A rule of thumb to remember is that the shoulder straps should carry about 30% of the weight, while the hips – being a lot more stable should carry about 70% of the weight. When testing the pack, make sure the shoulder straps are not uncomfortable or restrictive. Try moving around in them to see how much mobility the backpack gives you.

Most packs also have a sternum strap. These straps help stabilize the backpack. Sternum straps should be positioned below the collarbone to ensure comfort and stability.

The hip belts on the other hand should not constrict your breathing, nor should they be too thick that they reduce your mobility.

Designs always vary and backpack companies are always heralding a ‘new and improved’ technology for campers to try out. The only way to really know if these new bags work is for you to try them out

3. Choose your frame – there are two types of frames to choose from – internal and external. Internal frames are slimmer and hug your body closer, making them ideal for hard trails since they are so maneuverable and do not restrain mobility. They are a bit harder to load though. External framed backpacks are great for beginners on easy trails since they are easier to pack. However, they are a bit stiffer and may restrict mobility. It’s the best type of backpack for children and beginners though.

4. Extras – when purchasing backpacks consider whether the pack is compatible with weather sheets to protect your pack against the elements. Also consider how attachments can be adapted for your pack. Most packs have rings and snap-on pieces that allow for accessories to integrate with your pack.

In the end, a good pack is almost synonymous with a great trek. Choosing a good pack will definitely enhance your camping experience tenfold. Choose carefully, since your backpack will probably be your most trusted companion on all of your camping trips.

How to pick the best tent

An essential piece of equipment, your outdoor camping experience is largely dependent on the quality of your tent. Which is why there is a huge quantity to choose from.

The first and simplest way so as narrow your tent choices is to decide the tent dimension that you require.

Tents are constructed to house a specific number of individuals. A solo backpacker will be looking for a tent that is much smaller than a family of campers that require a roomier tent.

Almost all tents are labeled with description and their capacity which indicates how many individuals the tent can hold comfortably.

Unless you are intent on having a collection of tents in different capacity or sizes, it is wise that you establish the largest number of individuals you believe will sleep in the tent.

If you normally backpack with a companion but this summer is going solo, then it is wise to purchase a “two-person” tent.

Basically, there are four tent components: namely the poles, tent body, rain fly and the tarp which is some kind of footprint or ground cloth to extend your tent’s floor life.

Apart from these basic components, here are some guidelines in choosing the best tent for you:

1. Consider your needs. Know your particular camping requirements, such as where do you mostly go camping, at what season and would you be backpacking? And how many are you. These answers can give you a clear idea of what type of tent you will need.

2. Set your budget. When you allocate a budget before you go looking for a tent, most likely, you will not overspend.

3. Tent weight and size. How many individuals will be sleeping in the tent? The size of your tent will not really matter should you go “car camping”; however, if your intention is backpacking, then consider a “light-weight” tent.

4. Tent features. Today, there tent manufacturers offering a lot of features for their tents.

Mesh panels allow the breeze go in your tent at the same time keep the mosquitoes and bugs out, “shock-corded” tent poles allow speedy setup, waterproof and flame resistant for safety, a rain fly for added rain protection, etc.

Make certain you choose the tent that best caters to all your basic requirements.

5. Make certain that you select a durable fabric tent. It will cost you more money, however this is definitely an area worth it.

6. Select the proper tent color. Inspect how the color of the tent transmits light well into the interior. Certain colors generate a brighter interior, whereas others create a cave-like and dreary ambience.

Take note that light colors are best for summer camping since they tend to be cooler whereas dark colors are able to absorb solar energy so that they are great when camping in cold weather.

7. Check the tent’s coating. Remember that you must see a waterproof and shiny coating inside the floor and rain fly. If this is not visible or you can not feel this on the tent’s fabric, than it is not thick enough to withstand heavy use.

8. Know that your tent needs when camping in the summer are very much different compared to camping in the snow.

Almost all tents available on the market have weather ratings. Make sure that you purchase a tent specifically made for a particular weather condition or season that you will be out camping.

9. Tent manufacturers. Various tent manufacturers have their unique design and name. Some are identified to make inexpensive tents, while others are well recognized to make high quality but expensive tents.

Popular tent makers are Coleman, Wenger, Eddie Bauer and Greatland Tents. Choose a tent manufacturer that has been trusted for years.

While in the forest or wilderness the wrong camping equipment may not kill you, it can send you packing off to a motel and cause you to regret having planned a family campout.

For that well-planned and enjoyable camping vacation, take your time when you purchase your tent.

Remember, it will be your home for a few days. Having the right tent will keep you comfortable and warm especially on rainy and cold nights.

Canon PowerShot A570IS 7.1MP

Canon PowerShot A570IS 7.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

Canon PowerShot A570IS

$136.00 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping

Product Description
Life doesn't give you second chances to capture special times. That's why the elegant PowerShot A570 IS is equipped with Canon's acclaimed Image Stabilizer Technology that automatically detects and corrects camera shake - one of the leading causes of fuzzy or blurred shots. So now even when you're zooming in tight you can get the steady, crisp, brilliant images. With DIGIC III, you get images of superior quality, the camera functions at top efficiency and battery life is significantly enhanced. What's more, DIGIC III enables Canon's newly improved Face Detection Technology and Red-eye Correction to give you better, more true-to-life people shots. Beside stills there's highly flexible movie mode, you can create the movie that's perfect for any application. ISO Sensitivity - Auto, High ISO Auto, ISO 80, 100, 200, 400, 800&1600 equivalent (Standard Output Sensitivity. Recommended Exposure Index) White Balance Control - Auto, Preset (Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Underwater) and Custom Normal Flash Range - 1.5-11 ft./45cm-3.5m (W), 1.5-7.2 ft./45cm-2.2m (T) Macro Flash Range - 1.0-1.5 ft./30-45cm (W/T) (when sensitivity is set to ISO Auto) Shooting Modes - Auto, Creative P, Av, TV, M, Image - Portrait, Landscape, Special Scene (Night Scene, Foliage, Snow, Beach, Fireworks, Aquarium, Underwater), Indoor, Kids&Pets, Night Snapshot, Stitch Assist and Movie Self-Timer - 2&10 seconds delay, Custom Continuous Shooting - 1.7 fps Still Image - EXIF 2.2 (JPEG) Movie - AVI (Image Motion JPEG, Audio WAVE) Interface - USB 2.0 Hi-Speed (mini-B jack) Video Out - NTSC/PAL Dimensions - Width 3.52 x Height 2.53 x Depth 1.69 inch (89.5 x 64.3 x 42.8mm) Weight - 6.17 ounces / 175 grams (camera body only)

Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #7 in Camera & Photo
Brand: Canon
Model: A570IS
Released on: 2007-03-19
Dimensions: 1.70" h x 2.50" w x 3.50" l, .50 pounds
Display size: 2.5
Included Software: Yes
Features
7.1-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 15 x 20-inch prints
DIGIC III Image Processor with improved Face Detection technology and Red-eye Correction
Clear, high-resolution 2.5-inch LCD for easy on-camera viewing
ISO 1600 and High ISO Auto to reduce image blur and expand low-light shooting capability
Print/Share Button for easy direct printing and downloading
Editorial Reviews
Manufacturer Description
Even when the kids can't sit still and the light is less than ideal, the amazing, the PowerShot A570 IS lets you capture life's special moments -- perfectly. Optical Image Stabilizer Technology keeps images crisp even when you're zoomed way in. The ISO 1600 and High ISO Auto settings reduce blur when the lights are down low. Plus, the A570 IS is packed with easy-to-use creative and convenient features you'll love.

PowerShot A570IS Highlights

DIGIC III Image Processor DIGIC III features Face Detection AF/AE, which finds multiple faces in the frame and sets the most suitable focus point, when the shutter button is pressed halfway. And an additional new feature, Face Detection FE adjusts the flash, based on a person's face on the screen. Exposure and flash are controlled to ensure proper illumination of both the faces and the overall scene, eliminating the common problem of darkened or overexposed faces.

Red-eye Correction detects and automatically corrects red-eye during playback for both regular and flash photography. In unusual cases where red-eye is not automatically detected, it can easily be corrected manually during playback mode from the LCD screen.

iSAPS Technology is an entirely original scene-recognition technology developed for digital cameras by Canon. Using an internal database of thousands of different photos, iSAPS works with the fast DIGIC III Image Processor to improve focus speed and accuracy, as well as exposure and white balance.

Clear, high-resolution 2.5-inch LCD for easy on-camera viewing The camera's 2.5-inch LCD screen gives you the big picture, whether you're shooting, reviewing or showing off your images. This high-resolution screen offers a crisp, clear picture to make shooting, playback and using the camera's menu functions especially convenient. Clear and bright, it also features Night Display for easy viewing in low light.

ISO 1600 and High ISO Auto The PowerShot A570 IS features new ISO 1600 and High ISO Auto settings that reduce the effects of camera shake and sharpen subjects in low-light situations, giving you greater flexibility for shooting.

A variety of movie-making options With a highly flexible movie mode, you can create the movie that's perfect for any application. Select from VGA (640 x 480 pixels) and QVGA (320 x 240 pixels), with frame rates of 30 fps and 15 fps for recording up to 1 hour or 4GB. Also Fast Frame Rate (QVGA; 320 x 240 pixels) recording at 60 fps for up to 1 minute, and Compact Movie Mode (QQVGA; 160 x 120 pixels) recording at 15 fps for up to 3 minutes. The PowerShot A570 IS also supports the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed standard, so you'll enjoy the fastest possible data transfer speeds when using a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed compatible computer.

Shooting Modes Advanced presets for the best possible photos under certain conditions.

Auto The camera chooses all the settings so you can concentrate on your subject.
P Program Access advanced exposure compensation features while shooting mostly automatically.
Av Aperture-priority You define the aperture to either isolate your subject or have clarity throughout the entire picture, and the camera will choose the corresponding shutter speed.
Tv Shutter-priority You select the shutter speed to stop or blur action, and the camera finds the appropriate aperture. With slow exposure times, Canon's noise reduction system activates to ensure low image noise.
Manual The ultimate in creative control, you set ISO speed, exposure compensation and white balance.
Portrait The camera sets a large aperture, focusing the subject and artistically blurring the background to make your subject "pop."
Landscape For front to back sharpness, the camera sets a small aperture.
Night Snapshot Get natural-looking pictures with brighter backgrounds and subjects lit by flash.
Indoor Reduce blur and improve color accuracy when shooting handheld indoors.
Kids & Pets Reduced focusing time freezes fast-moving subjects, so you won't miss those special shots.
Stitch Assist Build awe-inspiring panoramas by neatly aligning sequential images.
Movie Shoot in VGA and QVGA (30 fps/15 fps for up to 1 hour or 4GB), Fast Frame Rate (60 fps for up to 1 minute) or QQVGA (15 fps for up to 3 minutes).

Canon PowerShot A570IS 7.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

Special Scene Modes

Night Scene For impressive sunset or nightlife shots, the camera properly exposes the background and uses slow-sync flash for the subject.
Foliage Capture brilliant shots of autumn foliage, greenery and blossoms.
Snow Shoot clear snow scenes without darkened subjects or an unnatural bluish tint.
Beach Get clear shots of people at a sunny beach without darkened faces.
Fireworks Grab brilliant images of skyrocketing fireworks.
Aquarium Achieve proper flash-free exposure and natural hues at indoor aquariums.
Underwater Capture underwater images with reduced backscatter effect.(Note: Optional Waterproof Case WP-DC12 required for shooting any underwater images)
Get new batteries anywhere Power on the go with two AA-size batteries. You don't need to worry about running out or recharging batteries. Since AA-size batteries can be purchased at any store, simply get new ones locally.

The complete print solution Print/Share Button for easy direct printing and downloading, plus ID Photo Print and Movie Print with Canon CP and Selphy Compact Photo Printers. The PowerShot A570 IS's Print/Share button makes direct printing easier than ever. Simply connect the A570 IS to a Canon CP, Selphy or PIXMA Photo Printer or any PictBridge compatible photo printer, press the lighted Print/Share button and print! Also use the Print/Share button to transfer images to a computer (Windows and Macintosh).

Print your own ID photos in 28 different sizes or use the Movie Print function to output multiple stills from a recorded movie on a single sheet with a Canon Selphy Compact Photo Printer.

For desktop large-format printing, try one of the Direct Photo Printers that allow you to print without a computer in one of two ways: plug your compatible PowerShot camera into the Direct Photo Printer using the supplied USB interface cable, or simply insert a memory card into the supplied adapter. You can also connect the printer to your computer for more options. Print high-resolution, borderless images as postcards or 8.5 x 11-inch sheets within minutes.

Compact Photo Printers let you produce versatile, fun 4 x 6-inch postcards, 4 x 8-inch wide greeting cards or credit card size prints in just two easy steps: connect and press/print. Control the printer right from your camera's LCD screen. You get durable, dye-sublimated prints quickly with or without borders. Assortedpaper types let you create mini or credit card size labels. You can even take select Compact Photo Printers to a party or an outdoor picnic using an optional rechargeable battery.

Customer Reviews

Very Good Camera!
Bought this camera for a field trip to Death Valley. It took wonderful close up pictures of some nice salt formations where the crystals could actually be seen. It also did very well while bouncing along on gravel roads taking pictures through a fairly dusty van window. The foreground is blurred due to the speed of the vehicle, but what I wanted to capture is perfectly crisp! Not very good for night pictures, though, and the red eye removal is a bit annoying as is the slow speed of the flash.

PowerShot A570IS
So far I'm pleasantly surprised by my new PowerShot A570IS. I bought the camera as an alternative to my bulky DSLR and have been impressed with the quality from this inexpensive point-and-shoot.

Ideal Digital Camera for a Technologically Challenged User
Canon PowerShot A570IS 7.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom This was a Xmas present for my wife that has turned out to be an ideal camera for a person who has yet to be convinced that there's any reason for shooting in any mode other than full automatic. Thus used, it produces excellent snapshots with fine signal/noise ratios. As an advanced amateur and user of a high-end Canon DSLR, I highly recommend the A570IS for those who want a very easy to use, lightweight, compact digital camera that can be depended on to produce good photos under a wide range of conditions.

Canon PowerShot A570IS 7.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

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Spring camping

Spring is the season of transition; snow is now melting away and it is time to go back outdoors and see nature after that cold and long winter.

So what is there to do during spring camping? Anglers are eager to go fishing because the “small mouth bass” and the walleye are both spawning; ducks are now coming back and you can go hunting.

Hike, swim, go canoeing, fishing, boating and do not forget to bring your paint brushes and camera as well because you will see more exciting sights.

Likewise, you can set up a barbeque outside, of course far away from your tent and enjoy hearty grilled snacks and meals such as hotdogs, burgers, steaks, fish fresh from the river, vegetables and salads.

Summer, Winter, Fall, and Spring offer many different and exciting challenges unique to every season.

Fall camping

Fall camping is catching on among family campers. The beauty of nature during the fall season is indeed captivating.

With lesser crowds and no insects to bother you, fall camping can be the perfect option for you.

However, during fall, some essential camping amenities such as showers and washrooms might not be offered.

But, if you can settle on remote fall camping, pack your warm clothes then enjoy the “autumn months”.

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Winter Camping

Reminders for winter camping:

1. Drink plenty of water to fight or avoid hypothermia because water effectively replaces all the moisture that was expelled from the body due to constant heavy breathing. Just drink water even when you feel you are not thirsty. The recommendation is one gallon of water a day.

2. At signs of an approaching storm, immediately put your rain gear on. Should you get wet, change right away to warm and dry clothing, because moist clothes will quickly suck heat from your body.

3. Remember to pace yourself.

4. Do more tasks than you would normally, because movement will generate body heat.

5. Following tips 1-4 and wearing clothing layers, especially clothing that is polyurethane foam insulated will help you prevent frostbite.

6. Always listen and take notice of your body’s reactions. When you start to shiver, immediately do something in order to make yourself warm before uncontrollable shaking and numbness sets in.

Take note that hypothermia occurs mostly in windy and wet weather with temperature ranging from “30-50 degrees F”.

7. Eat a lot of complex carbohydrates and do avoid food rich in sugar and starches.

Winter Camping

Winter camping

There are some people that find winter camping more satisfying compared to the summer months, because they say, winter camping requires a specific strength and courage that summer camping does not.
If you love the challenge it brings, then consider “winter camping”. You can enjoy sleeping in “mild weather” outside.

Likewise, it gives you added “self-confidence” realizing that you actually can endure the preparedness and ingenuity this kind of outdoor adventure requires.

Certainly, there are many advantages to camping during winter; no snakes, bugs, flies, bears, dust or mosquitoes, plus winter wilderness view is breathtaking.

You can go snowmobiling, snowshoeing, “cross-country skiing” and engage in many heartening challenges.

Furthermore, campgrounds during winter will most likely be quiet, empty and normally cheap.

However, lack of preparation and readiness brings dangers. There are many hazards and dangers that one needs to be familiar with, like large quantities of snow falling from “overhead trees”. But with good planning, you can enjoy the slower pace of winter camping.

Summer Camping

Summer camping

The summer is the most popular season for campers because the weather is dry and warm. Campsites are understandably more crowded during the summer. You need to plan ahead, make reservations and arrive early so to find a good campground especially during weekends.

Tent Camping

Tent camping

Tent camping usually attracts families with children because children are primarily the ones that enjoy it the most and because it is rugged and inexpensive.

Tent camping employs a vehicle to transport camping equipment to any established campground that offers full amenities and allow direct car access.

Whatever type you choose, with safety in mind, camping is sure to be a fun filled experience the whole family will love and will look forward to every season.

Summer, Winter, Spring or Fall

What Is The Best Season For You To Go Camping?

Different camping seasons impart different lights and views.

Backpacking Camping

Backpacking is generally the most exciting and basic way to experiencing a wilderness adventure.

Backpacking adds new excitement and elements to any hiking experience because it extends your visit in the backwoods. You may travel far into the wilderness because you are not obliged to go back to your campsite at the day’s end.

Backpacking is simply exploring on foot beautiful and wild country, being self-sufficient, while hiking with camping essentials in a comfortable backpack and set camp mostly in undeveloped and primitive areas.

Put simply, backpacking entails having to carry a pack of essential camping supplies on your “back.” The longer your trip, the more supplies you carry. What you will be taking along with you as well as how distant you will hike actually depends on you.

Preparing for your backpacking trip involves assembling, selecting and packing supplies and gear that you need and want to bring along with you.

Selecting your backpacking gear is very significant so as to have a successful trip. Excessive gear or specifically the wrong kind of backpacking gear can bring about an extremely heavy weight load that will spoil your hike.

Likewise, incorrect or too little gear will result in discomfort and under certain conditions, may even be dangerous.

The internet is filled with stores specifically devoted to backpacking supplies and gear as well as information. Studying your backpacking gear will enable you to purchase the right gear that you need.

The selections for backpacking gear are always evolving, ongoing and constantly changing. Find out which one best suits your backpacking requirements.

Backpacking equipment generally costs more compared to car camping, however much less compared to RV camping and take note, backpacking campsites are usually free.

RV Camping

RV Camping stands for Recreational Vehicle and RV campers embrace the liberty of traveling at their “own time” and are able to camp in different places while not sacrificing comfort that RVs offer.

An RV is comparable to a small lodge but on wheels and normally comes complete with heater, oven, refrigerator, shower, stove, beds, toilet, and “12-volt” electrical power.
According to many RVrs, they enjoy their “mini hotel” because they are always “packed and ready-to-go”.

Furthermore, they enjoy the cooking, bathing and sleeping convenience the vehicle offers while in a distant or remote campground.

For individuals who never experienced camping in an RV but thinking of purchasing one, renting first would be a very sensible decision so you will see if the RV lifestyle suits you.

Day Hiking

Day Hiking is becoming more popular with campers of all ages. Anyone capable of walking long distances can certainly do this. A day hikers’ objective is to hike or walk for the day and return to the place of origin that same day, usually as night approaches their campsite.

Besides being able to walk long distances, you must also be ready for any weather conditions as well as having the right tools and techniques needed so you can find the right route back to your campsite.

One very important thing in hiking is selecting the correct footwear. Because hiking is defined as walking which simply means being “on your feet”, you must purchase footwear designed specifically for hiking and that primarily give your feet comfort while walking. Never purchase footwear solely based on how good they look.

Many are attracted to this "sport" because every individual sets their own objective then strives hard to achieve it; this undertaking requires some commitment and planning.