Watch this video review of the Tiny Pump 2X, from Flextail Gear!
Final Thoughts
Overall, we were impressed with the design and performance of the Tiny Pump 2X.
And, although the pumping performance was not super fast when pumping up the air mattress (10 minutes), it would allow someone time to set up something else on their campsite while letting the this little pump do some big work of its own.
The Tiny Pump 2X is a great addition to a camper or backpacker’s supply list!
The storage bags that Flextail makes are also a great use for the vaccuum feature of the pump.
All-in-all, a great little product from Flextail that won’t take up much space in your vehicle, backpack or supply bag, and will come in handy in a variety of outdoor scenarios.
That’s how many Americans go RV Camping every year, according to the 2022 KOA North American Camping Report.
While the rise in popularity might motivate you to get out there on the road and try RV camping for yourself, there are several critical things to consider before planning your trip.
This guide will help you prepare and enjoy your next RV trip!
First, if you don’t own an RV, you need to decide whether you will rent or buy an RV.
Similarly, you have to determine your trip destination and plan your route for the best experience.
Why?
Because, unlike normal cars, RVs can be huge, so learning how to drive, navigate, and park your RV is extremely important.
What Is an RV?
An RV (recreational vehicle) is a towable or motorized camping trailer used for living while staying or traveling across various locations.
An RV can be a simple van with a bed, a small but functional pop-up trailer, or a double-wide Airstream with the luxurious comforts of a contemporary home.
Regardless of the shape and size, if you can sleep, boil water and cook in the vehicle, it’s an RV.
You can travel almost anywhere with your RV, depending on your objectives for the trip. However, it’s important to have a clear idea of your final destination to plan your route before you hit the road.
The place you choose will depend on a number of factors – how far you want to travel, what types of activities you enjoy, and how long you plan to stay at your destination.
Deciding your camping location can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to RV camping. While many destinations claim to have a campground, not every destination is created equal.
For first-time RVers or those looking for a longer stay, full-service parks like Midland East RV Park are packed with amenities and allow you to fully explore an area of your choosing.
Notably, RV resorts are the epitome of luxury in RV camping. That’s because they have lots of extra amenities like cable TV, Wi-Fi, swimming pools, and many other services.
The resort may be gated, which ensures peace of mind that your belongings will be safe while you’re exploring.
Buses to nearby attractions and locations may be provided, so you don’t have to unhitch your RV to tour the local areas.
Nature and Relaxation in an RV-friendly Campground
Most RV campgrounds are great for outdoor activities. While they may have fewer amenities, the locations are secluded, with peaceful nature surrounding them.
One thing to keep in mind is that power hookups, water, and sewer systems may not be guaranteed, and an RV campground itself may be small and unpaved. While this option can be cheaper than an RV park, it may not provide all the luxuries you’re accustomed to during travel.
Experienced campers and those with an adventurous streak might enjoy the national parks system, to fully immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some of the comforts of home.
Many campgrounds have the option to book a space online. So, if you are planning your trip around peak travel seasons, booking in advance may be essential to ensure you have a guaranteed spot once you arrive.
Before you pack up and hit the road, it’s important to check with the management at your chosen destination to be sure that their lots are large enough to accommodate your RV.
While campgrounds typically reserve spaces for RVs and tent campers, many operate on a “first come, first served” basis. So, if you suspect that your destination might have limited space for RVs, call ahead and reserve your spot if possible.
Size restrictions and a lack of available spaces might cause you to have to change plans halfway through, and it’s better to be prepared before you arrive at your destination.
If your chosen campground is booked up and you can’t find another space, some large chain stores may let you spend the night in their parking lot with permission from the management.
While a parking lot may not seem like the best place to stay, it gives you a place to rest overnight before looking for a vacant site in the morning.
Whether you are a novice or a seasoned camper, packing for RV camping requires extensive forethought. While your RV might have multiple cabinets and shelves, you won’t have enough space for everything.Some essential RV equipment mentioned below depends on whether you own the RV or are renting one for vacation.
The following items should be in your RV camping packing list:
Generator
Hitch
Leveling blocks
Surge protectors
Generator and fuel for the generator
Electrical adaptors
Wheel chocks
Weight distribution bar
Drinking water and sewer hose
Portable toilet and shower
Hydraulic jack
Tool kit with screwdrivers, wrenches, and hammer
These items, coupled with other camping essentials, can quickly accumulate, making storage quite tricky.
You shouldn’t place these tools close to containers with caustic fluids. To avoid possible spillage, store any vehicle fluids in airtight containers. You should also consider having an exterior storage segment for RV tools and equipment.
Be sure to allocate extra time to drive to the camping ground so you can have enough time to set up your RV.
While most locations have guides that help visitors set up their gear, you still need time to figure out where to find the amenities.
Taking your RV out on a trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming. However, you need to plan your trip to avoid ugly surprises.
Pack enough items for the trip but, not too many, as this could make the process too stressful. After all, you’re going RV camping for relaxation and adventure, right?
Be sure to keep your RV properly serviced and maintained to avoid breakdowns and other problems on the road.
While you may want to drive to a campground without notice, it’s prudent to book in advance, especially if you plan your RV camping trip during the peak season.
Since navigation can be a hassle in unfamiliar destinations, make sure to carry a GPS, smartphone, and physical map to help you move around.
Regardless of your itinerary, get out there and enjoy yourself!
Whether you’re with family or a group of friends, outdoor adventures bring fun, excitement, and a chance to strengthen bonds.
And, whatever outdoor activity you enjoy, it’s vital to have a good-quality tent to shelter your group from the sun’s heat or when sudden rain or snowfall occurs.
Military tents may be overlooked for camping and other outdoor adventures, but as you will see below, they provide many great benefits!
Tents are certainly known to serve these purposes, but have you ever tried using military tents for your adventures?
Let’s cover six benefits to help you decide whether to try military tents at your next outdoor event.
Durability
Whatever outdoor event you have, the durability of your tent must be considered, especially when housing multiple people and additional equipment.
Using a military shelter system as a tent offers durability, unlike standard tents. Most most of these types of tents have polyester fabrics coated in vinyl, with secure insulation that helps retain a cool temperature during hot weather.
These fabrics are also tear-resistant, waterproof, and flame-retardant. You also won’t worry about ventilation because military-grade tents also have windows allowing for proper air circulation.
Natural light can also flood the tent, saving power during the day. Additionally, insects, mosquitos, and other critters won’t be able to get in because the windows and the entrance have a layer of thin screens.
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Spaciousness
Camping doesn’t always mean packing multiple tents. Some types of camping even challenge the camper to keep their presence at campsites to a minimum.
But, with a military tent, you can shelter a large group of people, which eliminates the need for multiple tents.
Looking for more space for sheltering a large group on an outdoor adventure? Military tents can house large groups and still have room for other gear and supplies.
If you’re renting tents, you can save money, because you won’t be paying to ensure everyone sleeps with a roof over their heads, for example. When you can sleep together in one tent, it helps increase the likelihood of bonding with your loved ones.
Sleeping separately in the wilderness can be worrying to some people, especially groups with children. But, a spacious military tent gives peace of mind that you can find your team in a single place.
Distributing supplies is also easier, because everyone will get their share immediately, as you don’t have to walk elsewhere.
Spacious military tents also help avoid becoming cramped. Smaller parties will have more legroom and extra space for camping gear and other items that must stay dry instead of leaving them inside the vehicle. You can also use them to shelter gear or equipment.
A good tent is easy to set up, even if it is large enough to house many people.
It doesn’t have complicated mechanisms to make it stay upright. It won’t take long to get standing if you’re a small group of two or four. After all, whether you buy or rent a tent, the last thing you want is to spend hours setting it up after arriving from a long journey.
The last thing you want is to spend a lot of time setting up a complicated tent after you arrive at your destination. Military tents are easy to setup.
So, ease of use is essential.
And, that’s another benefit of military tents for camping and other adventures, because they are quick to set up despite their laundry list of features.
There are varying models that don’t require poles, which is also why these tents have aerated openings at the foundation. They also make cozy shelters during harsh weather, which leads us to our next benefit…
Military tents are designed for soldiers in far-flung regions of differing climates. Designers create these tents with the soldiers’ safety in mind. That’s also why these tents are perfect for camping outdoors.
The environment you’re likely to find yourself in might not be too different to where soldiers are more likely to spend their days.
Military tents are designed for harsh conditions, which can be very advantageous in hot or cold climates.
A military tent is weather resistant and can withstand the harshest conditions. You are more likely to have memorable camping experiences knowing you’re safe and warm in the wilderness inside a military tent.
And, thanks to their heavy-duty fabric, you’re warm on cold nights and cool on hot days.
Some tents also have specialized floors that can bear extreme exposure to rugged terrain. There are insulation boards manufactured with flame-retardants ABS sheeting, which are also shock resistant. These materials can withstand hot and cold temperatures, dust, humidity, and more.
Some military surplus tents can provide you with the versatility you need.
Some can bear strong gusts of wind up to 65 mph and temperatures up to 160 °F. A-frame and squad-type tents can also serve as a multipurpose camping tents and are easy to set up. But, the downside to these is that they don’t have any flooring. That means you’ll need to use camping mats or other sleep gear.
Try camping with a military tent by renting one first, so you can be sure it will work for you. Renting one can also be helpful for those considering buying one for their next outdoor adventure.
Of course, If buying one is out of your budget, renting is also very practical.
Renting a tent also saves you storage space. After your adventure, you can pack it and return it to the company. You won’t have to worry about making room in a crowded garage or room in your house.
Some rental rental companies can even deliver the tent to the campground and assist you in setting it up.
Final Thoughts On Military Tents For Camping And Outdoors Adventures
A military tent can be a valuable addition to your outdoor adventure because of its make and quality.
These tents can endure harsh environments and various kinds of terrain. Most importantly, they’re weather resistant, temperature regulating, and protect you from the elements.
Military tents are spacious, which allows a group to stay together under one roof for safety. And, despite their seemingly complicated design, the tents are easy to set up and won’t take you hours to get the shelter you need.
All in all, these military tents make the ideal outdoor shelters.
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