Tips on Storing your Camping Tent

Now that the camping season is done for some of you, it's time to store your Tent. Here are a couple tips to save you some time, effort and $$$$

Before storing your tent, ensure that it is completely clean and dry. Moisture wrapped up in your tent for extended periods will promote mildew growth.

Your clean and dry tent can be stored in its stuffsack or loosely in a box or oversized cotton storage bag. Avoid sealing your tent in a plastic bag or any other airtight, confined space. Find a cool, dry spot to store your tent such as a closet inside your house where it won't be exposed to humidity.

It's always a good idea to set up your tent and check it over thoroughly and identify any areas by using a simple paperclip with a note showing location of damage or repair, if repairs needed it might be a good idea to have done before storing, or make a note to unpack in the early spring to have taken care of, there's nothing worst than finding out when your setting up camp....

Visit our Online Stores www.FamilyTentCamping.com www.OzTent.us for our niche selection of Camping Tents & Gear for families and the avid outdoorsman

OzTent Screen Room for Mosquito Lab Experiment

Recently The Rockefeller University of New York purchased an OzTent RV-5 Screen Room for experimental purposes, requiring the OzTent screen room to keep mosquitoes contained during mosquito-host seeking experiments.

The Deluxe Screen Room creates an insect free area perfect for eating in or just relaxing. It can be installed under the awing, to the side of the awning or in front of the awning. It can also be used as a stand-alone unit.

The Deluxe Screen Room has a dome shaped silver roof with zippered doors and our famous No-See-Um mesh on all four walls. Now with Zip down covers for added protection. These covers can also be used as awnings. 8" Bathtub sewn in floor to provide additional ground protection from rain water & unwanted intruders.

The Deluxe Screen Room comes complete with all ropes, pegs, roof rods and four telescopic poles in its own carry bag. Now available in three sizes. For more information visit www.OzTent.us

Cooking your Thanksgiving turkey with a Tri-Pod

Cook a Turkey Outdoors with Charcoal while it dangles from a tripod like a trapeze artist. An aluminum foil reflector oven, coals and a tripod are all that are needed to cook a delicious, moist, Thanksgiving feast outdoors. (no dangerous oil flare-ups here!)




Materials Needed:
- 44"x18" Wire mesh
- (4) metal tent stakes
- 18" wide roll of Aluminum Foil
- (4) metal binder clips (office supplies)
- Metal tripod (the one shown is a camp cooking tripod that comes with a round metal grill that adjusts up and down. The grill and 3 side chains have been removed.
- 3 feet of Sisal rope (be sure to use natural fiber rope). Wrap the bird to provide an anchor point for hanging from tripod chain. (A barrel not is recommended for securing bird to tripod, you may also use a hook with rope tied on one end having the hook attached to the chain of tripod.
- 2 feet of wire to tie the legs for securing bird to body
- (2) Plastic oven bags (these bags are designed for use in household ovens and will handle regular cooking temperatures)
- (1) Turkey (thawed)

Make the 4 Coal Towers ahead of time (they are reusable)
1. Cut a piece of wire mesh about 11" by 18" for the Coal Towers
2. Roll the mesh into a 3 1/2" diameter x 18" tall cylinder
3. Secure the seam on the cylinder by "sewing" it together with a length of thin gauge wire or by cutting a few of the squares along the edge of the mesh and fold them back on themselves "hooking" the other edge of the seam.

1. Lay two to three sheet of aluminum foil on the ground shiny side up. Over lap the the edges. (He may perform without a net but this turkey needs something on the ground. Not to catch his fall but to reflect heat.)
2. Place the Coal Towers at the four corners of the foil. The distance between the towers should be 18" apart. (use the 18" roll of aluminum foil as a measuring gage)

3. For the high wire act, place the tripod scafolding over the foil as shown.
Add the sides to the reflector oven.
1. Wrap aluminum foil around the towers (shiny side inward)
2. Secure the foil at the top of the towers with the metal binder clips

The oven is done.

Light the Burning ring of fire

1. Start the Charcoal Briquettes.

A Chimney Starter is the method of choice. No need for flammable petrochemical liquids, and the coals are easy to dole out from the starter with tongs.

After the coals are glowing in the starter, divide them equally amongst the four towers using tongs.
2. Top-off the towers with additional un-lit briquettes. They will gradually self-start from the hot coals below.

Ready to start cooking

The turkey should be about 3-4" off the ground and centered between the 4 coal towers.
Cook just like you would in a 350 F degree oven.
Our 26lb turkey took 4 1/2 hours to cook. (160 degree F internal temperature)
Occasionally throughout the cooking process, add additional briquettes to the top of the towers as the lower coals burn down.

Thanksgiving is a great time to enjoy a great meal, family & friends.

OzTent Customer Experience

I bought the 3 man OZtent
I went on a 4x4 trip and it spent the week camping. My self and 2 other enjoyed my tent the first night. Second night was to cold for the second tent that was brought. So those that were using the second tent did not sleep it in but rather join in with my tent for a total of 5 people in my tent. We were all pretty well comfortable with 5 in there. This product exceeded its so called person limit. This was a great tent went up in less then the advertised 30 seconds.

Thank you Family Tent Camping this was a great buy and your the only place I could buy this tent from.

I would greatly recommend Family Tent Camping to anyone one looking for a good tent because Family Tent Camping actually carries products you can not get elsewhere and these products are worth purchasing.

Erik

Fall Camping Tip: Packing for your Trip

Packing Clothes: Pack layered clothing. The Fall season can be unpredictable,it may be cold and sometimes it may be warm enough to sweat. So, make clothing arrangements for both the seasons. Pack some t-shirts and light jackets & lightweight clothing.
T-shirts add comfort for the camper and make him feel cool if the atmosphere is hot. jackets provide warmth if temperatures drop and can be removed or added easily.
Each layer has a function. The base layer (against your skin) manages moisture; the insulating layer protects you from the cold; the shell layer (outer layer) shields you from wind and rain. You simply add or subtract layers as needed.

Different terrains: Be prepared for different terrains, the atmosphere can at once become dry and some times it may even shower. So, if you are camping in this season pack shoes suitable for both terrains. Tennis shoes and boots will be very useful in the fall camping.

Fluids: You cannot predict the climate, so carry a mixture of hot and cold water. The day is hotter and the nights are cold. So, pack water and cool drinks for the day climate and pack coffee, hot chocolate and tea for the night.

The combination of these liquids will help the camper to get along the unexpected changes in the climate.

Sleeping Gear: Make sure to bring a Sleeping Bag that will maintain your body heat, by sleeping on a camping cot or foam sleeping mat to provide a barrier of insulation between you and the cold ground.

Activities: Take both indoor and outdoor activities in fall camping. If its cold outside, you can play indoor games, if the climate is in normal conditions you can play outdoor games.

Camping in the Fall is a great time to enjoy the great outdoors in all it's beautiful surroundings, be prepared and capture the coolest season for camping. Visit our Camping Store for all your Fall Camping needs.

OzTent Malamoo 3 Second Tent Available Sept 27, 2011

OzTent Malamoo 3 Second Tent

The same quality construction and workmanship as found on our OzTent RV's & Jet Tents,the OzTent Malamoo tents are quality pop-up tent that self erect in just 3 seconds. No more fiddling around with poles and flys. The poles are fixed to the skin. You just throw it in the air and it self erects. These tents have a waterproof Fly (1500mm) and breathable inner all built in. Excellent superfine insect mesh will keep out the all the bugs. Available in two colors Green or Earth. This Malamoo tent will accomodate 2 people with ease.

OzTent Malamoo XTRA

The OzTent Malamoo XTRA will accomodate 3-4 people and has an awning with two awning poles included. It also has an inovative vestibule area at the front and an extra large screen window at the back.
Available in two colors Green or Earth.



How to set up the OzTent Malamoo Tent

How to pack away the OzTent Malamoo Tent

For further details or purchasing an OzTent Malamoo contact Family Tent Camping - OzTent USA 866.917.4083

Family Tent Camping Customer Testimonial

Love our Kodiak tent! It was sooo great at Burning Man! Thank you!
Teresa G.

Family Tent Camping Customer Experience

I bought the four person Turbo Tent turbolite 4 and absolutely love it. I've been out in it four or five times and have no complaints. I try to wait until other campers are watching before I set it up (1-2 minutes) and then wait for them to wander over to ask about it and how did I set it up so fast. I've probably secured a few sales for you with my demonstrations. The extra covering will be perfect for winter camping and especially great in inclement weather but so far I haven't needed it. Setting up and breaking camp is a breeze..
gary p.

Hydra-Shield Waterproof Canvas Tents by Kodiak Canvas

What is Hydra-Shield Canvas?
Hydra-Shield Canvas Kodiak Canvas tents are made with a superior, marine-grade, 100% cotton, Hydra-Shield™ canvas. It is a custom woven and treated canvas ideal for the purpose of premium tent making.
It is double-fill (two threads twisted together for superior strength, durability, and a very tight weave). It has a silicone, dry-finish treatment that is watertight, breathable, and durable. It also resists mold and mildew.
What are the Benefits?
You will stay dry, even in a downpour! It’s okay to touch ceiling and inside walls during a rainstorm. This canvas does not leak or wick water.
Unlike synthetic fabrics, or canvas with a paraffin or oil-based treatment, our canvas is breathable! This allows water vapor to escape, minimizing condensation, humidity, and mugginess. Simply put, you are more comfortable.
Unlike canvas with paraffin or oil-based treatments, you should rarely, if ever have to retreat the canvas. Hydra-Shield’s silicone-based treatment is durable and very long-lasting.
The canvas is strong and durable. It will hold up to the elements, and long outlive tents made with inferior fabrics.

Check out the additional models in various sizes and styles to fit your camping needs. www.FamilyTentCamping.com

OzTent Customer Experience

Hi Randy,

My name is Sheri B. and my husband Ernie recently purchased an OzTent and Foxwing awning through you. What an awesome product!!! We are avid 4wheelers (full size truck 4wheeling) and our club gets together a few times each year for club runs. Our first opportunity to use the tent and awning was during father's day weekend. It started off miserably with torrential downpours. I must say I was immensely surprised that we stayed completely dry settled nicely under the Foxwing. We were definitely the envy of the event as everyone else had simple easy up awnings that were blowing away and provided little to no protection. We had a great weekend and I can't wait to use it all again.

Sheri B.
Yankee Toys

Randy,

I just wanted to take some time & thank you for selling OZtents here stateside. I purchased My RV4 shortly after meeting you & your wife at the Overland Expo. I have to say that as an average working Joe, it was a strech to purchase this tent. however after seeing the quality of the OZtent, I know that it truly is more than likely the least tent I will purchase. My wife (Candace) & I am very excited about our new tent. We took our OZtent RV4 to Jeddediah Smith State Park in California back the first week of June, & could not have been happier. The OZtent delivered! it proved to be everything one could want in a tent. In fact we were approached by several others within the campground who were intrigued by the shape of the tent originally, but after seeing the materials & (even more important) the ease of set up/tear down were AMAZED. We loved our tent so much & had such a positive experience that my Father-in-law purchased an RV-2 from you as well! The OZtent is truly well worth is price. I have attatched a few pictures from our first camping trip in Jeddediah Smith with OZtent & our daughter Isabella, I truly hope to see more OZtents during future camping trips.

Sincerely,

Ralph J.
Citrus Heights, Ca.

For more information on our OzTent RV's and furniture, visit www.OzTent.us

OzTent Customer Experience

Thank you for your help....as you can see the tent arrived and is in great shape....I am very happy with the product and can't wait to set it up outside and attach it to the jeep....I will send you a photo of that as well....thanks again.....daniel B. :)

Happy OzTent Camper

Hi Randy and Kim

I am absolutely thrilled with my new Oztent. The quality and workmanship are excellent and the ease of putting it up is almost unbelievable. It has provided me with all that I had hoped for in my camping trips which are numerous. I have my van and my tent and that gives me all the comforts to really enjoy my trips. I use my oztent as a living and changing room as I sleep on a cot in my van. All the comforts of home. I don't have the hassle of putting up and taking down the traditional tent and have the height needed to comfortably change clothes. I have a padded recliner and little table and when an afternoon rain comes I grab a good book and enjoy the "in" time. I might add that I bought the little pad that WalMart sells to put under your sleeping bag and place it under my chair to protect the floor. Works great.

I would highly recommend your company, your products and the support you have provided is great. Looking forward to doing more business with you in the future.

Thanks so much, Louanne

Visit us at OzTent USA for all your Hassle Free Camping needs. Sign up for a DVD packet packed with features and options available with the OzTent.

Camping - A Great Way to Get Away From it All!

Yes it is!

Looking back at the good ole days when folks would sit on the front porch and talk about life in general, well within the past 10+ years friends and family are beginning to enjoy the great outdoors in a similar fashion, camping has the perfect combination of recreation and relaxation for all ages. Here in Illinois there was a budget cut that involved closing some of our state park locations to reduce spending? go figure. There is no better place than away from the hustle and bustle of the city to gather your thoughts and spend time with the ones you care about.

Sure there is the preperation of packing gear, planning meals and loading everything including the kids in the trunk and the back seat of a car or SUV, then your off to secure the best camping spot by arriving before the crowds show up. Once we arrive at the perfect spot then the fun begins by taking everything you had stategically packed and unpack it, usually means the wife and kids do some site seeing of there own after they make that much needed bathroom stop that had been delayed in order to arrive at the spot before someone else got it. Leaving Dad to get everything set up for a weekend of R & R. Don't get me wrong I enjoy the entire process of camping, because after the work is done we all can sit around and enjoy the campfire while eating some dutch oven meals and connecting with one another, creating camping memories is definitely a great way to get away from it all.

To spend more time enjoying the outdoors and less time setting up camp, check out our Turbo Tent Line that set up in 1 minute!

Camping with Canvas Tents

Through the years I have experienced camping in a variety of settings. Weather conditions can play a huge role in the outcome of a successful camping trip. Growing up in Boy Scouts and now in leadership through a Christian based Scouting program Royal Rangers, I have come to appreciate "great" camping gear. Providing quality gear for the boy's helps them experience all the outdoors has to offer, and makes for a more pleasurable experience.
I have always preferred canvas tents, they have a reputation for long lasting performance, and with proper care and storage you could easily use a canvas tent for many years. There were a few rules we had to follow when I was a boy, like not touching the canvas from the inside of the tent while it was raining, because it would cause the rain to penetrate through the canvas material creating a moisture problem inside the tent, but with the latest in canvas technology this is no longer a problem. The boys can touch the inside of the tent all they like, as boys do, and they will not wick or leak water. They are made with Hydra-Shield canvas, which is custom woven treated canvas, a double fill (two threads twisted together) and a silicone-based saturation treatment that is water tight, breathable and durable, for superior waterproofing & strength. The older traditional single thread canvas tents were, light weave canvas with paraffin or oil based treatment applied directly to the exterior of the canvas. This would wear off and need to be re-applied more often to maintain waterproofing.
When considering the purchase of a canvas tent, I recommend checking out our great selection of Kodiak Canvas tents. Experience for yourself how enjoyable camping can be with a high quality canvas tent.
Check out our full line of Kodiak Canvas Tents featuring deluxe cabins with screen enclosure add on option and Flex Bow cabin models that can easily be set up by one person.

For all your Family or organizational camping equipment needs you can visit us at
www.FamilyTentCamping.com

OzTent Customer Camping Testimonial

Hi Randy,

We have just returned from a 2 week camping trip through northern British Columbia and Alberta's Rockies.

The RV3 and fly we purchased from you exceeded our expectations and made our experience that much more enjoyable. As novice campers we truly appreciated how easy it was to set up and the level of comfort it provided... Especially on our couple of very rainy nights when we stayed perfectly cozy and dry.

We were also very pleased with the service and delivery we received from your company. Kim was a great help in filling our order and helping us with shipping choices to Canada.

We were approached several times during our travels, by both friends and complete strangers, and asked about the tent. We were more than happy to provide your contact information.

Please find attached a couple of photos.

Cheers,

John and Kim

Thank you for visiting our blog, please feel free to post a comment or browse our selection of family size tents. Family Tent Camping - OzTent USA

OzTent Experience Testimonial

We love our oztent! My parents in Australia have one that they highly recommended so we decided to buy our very own RV-4 to make camping just that bit easier. And we are thrilled with our purchase! The buying process was simple and shipping went great. Although the tents are a bit pricey, we love the quick set-up and not having the hassle with a tarp due to the waterproof canvas.

Cheers,
Jemima

Your OzTent Experience Testimonial

Hi to our friends at OZtent,
We are really enjoying our new OZtent! We bought the RV-4 with the side panel attachments as a present to ourselves in celebration of our 6th wedding anniversary, and we couldn't be happier with our purchase. We got to try it out for the first time 2 weeks ago when we took our 7 1/2 month old daughter camping for the first time in the costal redwoods of northern california at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. We all loved it. I enjoyed how easy it was to set up camp - thats saying a lot when you're carting around a 17lb infant on your back. My wife enjoyed the covered canopy area that the side panels created, it was the perfect area to set up our "kitchenette" and also relax during early morning drizzles. It was the perfect size for our family of three, but still room to grow if we add another kid or two to our family.
We have already been recommending this tent to all our friends with kids telling them how nice it is and how easy it is to set up. In fact, I'm currently trying to talk my father-in-law to buy one for himself so that when we camp together we can piece our tents together and create a mega tent - the way family camping is meant to be. It also became popular around our campground too. We had a few of our neighbors even come over to ask about our tent- even the camp hosts were very interested in our tent, we gave a few of them a demonstration of how easy it is to assemble.
Thank you again for this amazing product! We love our new tent.

Ralph and Candace J.

Kodiak Canvas Tent Customer Testimonial

Thank you so much for your prompt response! That kind of service is rare these days. I got a call from the manufacturer today and he is sending me a replacement part. I'm amazed at such great service! BTW the #6014 Kodiak Canvas tent weathered a very heavy thunderstorm(s) last summer that went on for about 3 hours. Not too much wind, but torrential rain, and not a drop of water inside when the storm was over!


Thank you!

Stephanie B.

For additional information on our line of 4 - 8 Person Kodiak Canvas Tents & Truck Tents visit FamilyTentCamping.com/KodiakTents

OzTent Customer Experience

Hi Randy and Kim,
I got back Sunday from 4 days in NC near Asheville at the SE Overland Rally, part of the Overland Expo events. The front panel and fly arrived in plenty of time to get packed and make the trip. From the pictures attached you can see how I employed the system, docked to the rear of my vehicle so I can take advantage of power and have access to my fridge. The tent stood up to several hours of overnight steady rain without any problems and endured a rather nasty afternoon thunderstorm with heavy wind gusts and side-blowing rain that actually blew over several other tents over the tree line into the woods right next to mine. I also observed that I was the only OzTent owner at the event. The full set-up did attract a lot of interest from attendees as many had not seen one before and they walked away pretty impressed. I know I was pretty happy with it and look forward to exercising it this summer on my month long trip off road in MT, Canada, and AK starting 7 July and ending sometime…
Tim B

Choosing the Right Sleeping Bag for Comfort

During our recent road trip to Amado, Arizona for an OzTent show my wife and I experienced some interesting weather traveling from March to April. We decided to take the southern route from IL through Missouri into Oklahoma to visit our Son and his new bride of 6 mos. they also introduced us to our "grand dogger", an italian miniature greyhound.

As we entered Albuquerque, NM we experienced temps overnight down to 18 degrees, in a camping tent! Needless to say my wife was not a happy camper, unless you are prepared for the elements it could be a dangerous situation if your body temp drops and is not able to warm up could lead to hypothermia.
Choosing a sleeping bag is critical when it comes to comfort and a restful night sleep, a sleeping bag's temperature rating identifies the lowest temperature at which a bag will keep the average sleeper warm. When you hear a bag described as a "20 degree bag," it means that most users should remain comfortable if the air temperature drops no lower than 20°F. These ratings assume that the sleeper is wearing a layer of long underwear and using a sleeping pad under the bag. The other key element in choosing the right temp rating is the metabolism of the person, which can vary from one person to the next, for example my wife & I were both set up on camping cots using + 25 degree bags with a micro fibre fill, which for me was good but in order to provide the needed additional warmth for her we added a fleece blanket for underneath her body with a wool blanket as a liner inside the sleeping bag for added insulation.
Here is a Tip for choosing a sleeping bag:
Select a bag with a temperature rating a bit lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. If you're headed for near-freezing temperatures, then choose a 20°F bag instead of a 35°F bag. If temperatures climb higher than expected, you can easily vent the bag to provide more circulation on warmer nights.
Here is a general rule of thumb when choosing a sleeping bag:
Bag Type Temperature Rating (°F)
Summer Season +35° and higher
3-Season Bag +10° to +35°
Cold Weather -10° to +10°
Winter/Extreme -10° and lower

You will find that sleeping bag temperature ratings vary from one manufacturer to the next. Use these ratings as a guide only, not a guarantee. However, I have found that the newer fibres, oversized and also bags for sleeping 2 have made a huge difference in a restful and comfortable nights rest. you can find them on-line at lots of camping locations including Family Tent Camping

Your OzTent Experience - Jet Tent F30X

Hi Randy,

Thanks for your invitation to provide feedback. Fantastic timing as I just returned from my first “trial by fire” trip for the F30X Jet Tent. Everything about the tent performed famously. I had another set of hands helping with set up. We had no problems whatsoever. I put down a ground cover, staked out the corners of the tent, lifted the center hub and raised and locked the frame. Also put in the peaked sides and front awning. I used the extra awning poles that you shipped just a few weeks ago (from the road trip) to put up the front panel awning. We used the space between the side panels for cooking, bar, cooler, etc. I put up a table under the front awning. See attached pics. Also regarding set up, I put custom made canvas floor coverings in the tent itself (to further protect the pvc floor and make it easier to sweep out dirt) and also as a floor in the deluxe side panel area). Very useful. We had three guys with gear in the inner part of the tent. Plenty of room to spread out.

Performance of the tent during the week was stellar. We had rain, cold, thunderstorms and significant wind pretty much every afternoon. One evening a thunderhead produced dime sized hail for nearly an hour. Not a drop of water inside any part of the tent. I did have some pooling where the front awning attaches but that was easily solved by lowering one of the awning poles just a bit. The two other tents we had in the group were covered with tarp set ups – staked out poles, bungee cords to the tarp, full coverage over the tents. During the storms they both had all kinds of problems with pooling, stakes pulling out, sudden release of large quantities of water, etc. The Jet Tent worked so well, everyone in the group of 8 used it for shelter in the worst of the storms. One of the guys dubbed it “Ice Station Zebra”. Pretty creative, I thought.
As we had significant amounts of rain, the tent was wet when it came time to break camp. So, rather than pack it in the bag, I formed it up and laid it in my cap-covered truck bed. I was on my own for the take down and had no problems. It took a while but most of that time was packing and stowing gear.

For a selection of family camping gear Visit www.FamilyTentCamping.com

Jet Tent by OzTent Customer Testimonial

FYI, we used the F30X Jet Tent this weekend and it was GREAT.
It was a windy, 45 degree night at the beach and the F30X was solid as a rock, quiet, warm and completely dry. We didn’t even set the guys, and just used the pegs on the corners. Our 5 month old and 2½ year old slept… well, they slept like babies. The set-up and take-down were very quick and simple. Definitely the best tent that I, or anybody that was with us, had ever seen. The quality and attention to detail is outstanding. You can count me as a satisfied customer.

C C
California

For more great hassle free camping products Visit www.FamilyTentCamping.com

Water Filled Baggies & Pennies Repel Flies

Getting outdoors is a past time shared by many folks, whether your camping or enjoying a picnic in the park. People have tried many remedies for warding off bugs by applying insect repellent, which provides contact protection, however the unwanted pest will continue to invade your space. To avoid this you may consider bringing along a screen tent for optimal results,another common folk remedy for repelling flying pests, however, consists of nothing more than a plastic bag filled with water and adding a few shiny pennies. Sounds too good to be true? Try it out for yourself...

How does it work?

Fill a large, durable plastic bag with clear, fresh water. This water, with its capacity for refracting and reflecting light, will be perceived by flying insects as high optic flow. Flying insects avoid regions of high optic flow in order to prevent collisions. Regarding the science behind zip log bags of water? Research found that each of the millions of molecules of water presents its own prism effect and given that flies have a lot of eyes, to them it’s like a zillion disco balls reflecting light, colors and movement in a dizzying manner.

Place a shiny penny into the bag, the shiner, the better. This penny should only increase the amount of reflection (optic flow) put off by the bag. Multiple pennies may work even better, so long as they increase the amount of reflective material in the bag. Don't add so many, however, that they're liable to strain or break the bag.

Seal the bag shut and provide a way for the bag to hang, should be strong enough to hold the full weight of the bag.

Hang the bag outside a doorway, from the limb of a tree,or anywhere that you are have a bothersome fly population.

Monitor the bug population to see if it has any effects, there is no exact science and results can vary, try hanging the bags in different locations or add multiple bags for best results.

For Free Monthly Family Camping Tips, sign up for our Newsletter Visit www.FamilyTentCamping.com/Newsletter

Build your own Camping Porta Potty

I don't know if anybody would be interested but it's much easier to use
the 5 gallon bucket porta potty with the toilet seat on it than to use
the usual porta potty. With the bucket you can put two garbage bags
together one inside the other and start with 4 plastic cups of kitty
litter and just add to it as you use the potty. When it starts to get
full you just tie the garbage bags closed and toss them in the
dumpster. Much easier than having to go to the dump station and dump
your porta potty. The kitty litter takes care of any odor and this is
so easy and convenient.

Just a thought but you probably already know that. But............

You guys are so appreciated. I couldn't ask for better service.

Thanks again, Louanne Henson

Kodiak Canvas Tent Updates 2011

Kodiak Canvas has recently added a couple Kodiak Canvas Tent models to provide our customers with the same high quality performance you have experienced with our deluxe canvas tent models , including the Kodiak Truck Tent that was only available in a full size short bed model with limited application. Everyone has requested a broader line of models to facilitate the need for a canvas tent to accomidate your camping needs. See below for recent changes & additions.
1)Model: 6 Person #6010 & 8 Person #6014

a.Cotton strap and cinch storage bag changed to a polyester-oxford cloth strap and cinch bag. Cotton canvas pole bag change to changed to a polyester-oxford cloth storage bag. Cotton canvas stake bag changed to a polyethylene bag
b.Sleeves for spring rods changed from 8.5 oz canvas w/ poly reinforcement to 10 oz canvas. Should have minimal effect on product performance.
c.Bottom tie rings removed. Was initially for use with a divider curtain which we have decided not to make. Very rarely used.
d.Reinforced vinyl floor on the corners.

2)Model: 4 Person #6098

a.Changed the canvas strap-and-cinch storage bag to a zippered bag made with polyester-oxford cloth. (Because of smaller size of this tent, the strap-and-cinch bag was really overkill). Cotton canvas pole bag changed to a polyester-oxford cloth storage bag. Cotton canvas stake bag changed to a polyethylene bag.
b.Sleeves for spring rods changed from 8.5 oz canvas w/ poly reinforcement to 10 oz canvas. Should have minimal effect on product performance.
c.Reinforced vinyl floor on the corners.
d.The floor material has been changed from a 16 oz vinyl to 13 oz. The #6098 was developed with the consumer that has a need for a quality tent with a smaller pack size and lighter weight (horseback, ATV, rafting, canoe, small car, etc.) To help reduce pack size and weight, we have gone to a lighter floor material. Make no mistake this is still a very heavy-duty floor. For reference the leading competitor in our Flex-bow line, Springbar, uses a 9 oz vinyl floor.

3)Kodiak Canvas Truck Tents

a.Modified so that they will fit the newer F-150 trucks (2004 or newer). there is also a Truck Tent model for long-bed applications (previously, there was only a short-bed tent).

New Items:

The 10x10 basic model #6055 is being discontinued and replaced with basic model #6051
.
We are also excited to introduce the 10x14 basic model #6044. This is available immediately!


Note on zippers. YKK is the top branded zipper. The coil zippers we used on Kodiak Canvas tents are the best available. Coil zippers were invented for the luggage industry and are very tough. Up until now, all Flex-Bow tents have had the YKK branded zipper. We have used and will continue to use a China made generic coil zipper on the #6121 and #6133. Over 5 years of use we have had little to no trouble with these zippers and find them to be top quality and equal in performance to the YKK zippers. The deluxe Flex-bow models will keep the YKK zippers. The basic models will go to the generic zippers.
All other features of the basic 10x10 will stay unchanged. We call this a basic model, but it does have a lot of nice features -- double doors, awning, etc.

For additional questions or comments, please feel free to email or call us (877.673.6590)

Enjoy the Great Outdoors in a Kodiak Canvas Tent! Visit www.FamilyTentCamping.com

Camping in my OzTent is so Easy & Fun!

Hi Randy

Just got back from my first camping trip with my new OzTent. I am a 68 year widow so I wanted something easy to handle and easy to put up. We picked our spots and my friend went back to the office to let them know which spots we had chosen. He wasn't gone more than 6 or 7 minutes. So, I pulled that tent out and had it up by myself by the time he got back. I was leisurely sitting at the picnic table by the time he returned. Just had to show off! It was great, just as easy as it looks in your clips. When it was time to leave I told everyone I didn't need any help and I didn't. It was as easy to take down as it was to put up and it's so well made. We camp a lot and having this tent makes it so much better. I love it! Too much fun!

Have a great camping season and thanks so much.

Louanne Henson

For more information on our 30 Second OzTents & accessories visit www.OzTent.us

Packing for a Camping Trip

Are you ready to get out and enjoy the weather? The camping season is just around the corner, can hardly wait! Now is a good time to start planning your trips, here is a camping tip that will save you a lot of time and effort when it comes to packing your food items efficiently.

Camping Tip:
When preparing for a camping trip, take items from boxes and place them in zip-lock bags. This cuts down on weight. It reduces discomfort if you're backpacking, when a box rests against your back. It's also a good idea to take dried nonperishable items, beans, rice, pasta, pancake mix, and so on, and place them in bags as well. By carrying dried items, you don't have the weight of the cans. Keep any perishable items in a cooler and well chilled until needed.

For additional Family Camping Tips Visit www.FamilyTentCamping.com/CampingTips
Sign Up for Monthly Camping Tips Visit www.FamilyTentCamping.com/FreeCampingTips


Copyright 2011 by Gary L. Benton/Randy McCauley

OzTent USA Road Trip: Overland Expo Event

Packed up and "Ready" to hit the road! we left Illinois on our journey March 26th, we had decided to take the back roads to Missouri to avoid the Springfield traffic and take in some nice scenery along the way, our first overnight camping stop was at the Ozark Trail campground, we arrived after 9 p.m to set up the OzTent and get some much needed rest before heading out early the next morning, we were able to set up the OzTent and ready for bed in less than 10 Minutes! our second stop was to Tulsa, Oklahoma to visit our son, his new bride and our "grandogger" Rosey (an Italian greyhound). After checking into our hotel we discovered there was an NCAA basketball tournament going on that wknd leaving only a few rooms available for the night, the other challenge was parking space, we were hauling our trailer filled with ozTent product for the Overland Expo show in Amado,AZ.

Left Tulsa,OK Saturday afternoon heading for Amarillo,TX stopped at the Big Texan steakhouse for supper, home of the 72oz steak. Rumor has it, if you eat all of it including the fixins it is FREE, plus you can enter your name on the hall of fame poster mounted on the wall for all to see. However, if you don't complete the challenge your out $100.00 and an upset stomach, lol. It's time to pack up and head out for Gallup,NM. Watch for our next Road Trip Blog in a couple days.

For great camping tips and road trip gear visit www.FamilyTentCamping.com

New! Jet Tent, I just kept saying, “Awesome”

Kim,
Well, the Jet Tent arrived last Saturday and I managed to get it set up on Monday after it rained pretty much all weekend. Everything went pretty smooth. One of the tie-outs for a window is quite frayed, looks like a production issue. If you happen to have any of that red cord, I can easily replace it. One of the Velcro tabs that hold the rolled up window is sewn on backwards. No big deal. I have to tell you, as I was setting it up, I just kept saying, “Awesome”. Must have said it a hundred times. The thing is so ridiculously over-engineered. I do believe you could drive a truck over it and not affect a thing.

Thanks,

Jim

A Funny Family Camping Story...

Ooo, I'm kinda an expert camper myself ;-) Pack a family of 4 or 5 + dog (my hubby on occasion joins us mid-way) for anywhere from 2-4 weeks. I use large clear plastic bins, one for cooking & laundry items (propane stove & lighter, propane, laundry soap, dish soap, clothes line & pins, etc), one for dishes, one for dried food items.. Keeps them all together. Even tho they are clear, I also label what is in them with a marker, as then people put the right things in them ;-) Everything is so tightly packed in our minivan; we now have a soft-sided topper. Once my husband met us in Las Vegas (ok, we hotel-camped there, as we could leave the dog in the hotel but not at a campsite by herself) & attempted to help in packing the van back up to continue on to San Diego; he thought he was finished when I brought several more items out of the hotel - hehehe! Needed to repack from scratch pretty much.

Just thought you'd enjoy the story ;-)

Douglass

Teardrop Trailer Camping with a 30 Second OzTent

With spring just around the corner, can hardly wait! Time to get out the camping gear and stock up the camping trailer to prepare for the family camping season ahead. Through the years I have seen many changes in how families enjoy the great outdoors, whether it's hiking the great trails or simply kickin back at the local fishing hole to relax and enjoy nature as it was intended. Camping is another outdoor recreation that has really gained popularity over the past few years, not only as a way to build lasting memories but fits nicely into their household budget. Not everyone is a "tent camper" and would prefer to have some modern conveniences rather than "Roughing it". There are a variety of RV campers to choose from these days making it pretty easy to choose the outdoor lifestyle of your choice. From Pop up campers to motorhomes and several options in between, such as the Teardrop trailer which has for many folks become a garage project that is easy to transport, and store. It's design is simple, a place to sleep and a galley area for cooking, as you search the web you will find hundreds of design plans to just about cover every need possible with the exception of a couple things, having a place for storage, changing your clothes, and the biggest thing, hanging out space regardless of the weather conditions. There has got to be a way to make a good idea into a great one! The solution is the 30 Second OzTent, which will provide quick set up (in less than 30 seconds) creating a perfect fit for your teardrop trailer by simply pulling along side or even underneath the existing awning for added shelter, privacy & convenience.

Are you a tent camper or an RV camper?

Tips for buying camping accessories

Camping out in nature doesn't always have to equate to roughing it. Whether you're a car camper or a backcountry minimalist, there are a variety of items you can purchase to make camping more relaxing. This guide will cover a range of items you can add to your camping gear to make trips more comfortable.

Having a restful sleep is important regardless if you're camping or not. There are varying sleeping pads and mats available to help you sleep comfortably in the outdoors. Mattress pads or camping cots also elevate and insulate you from the ground, helping you stay warm on cold nights. Foam and inflatable mattresses come in several lengths and thicknesses, and in lightweight to extra thick mats. If using inflatable mattresses, consider purchasing a 12V or rechargeable air pump; they'll save you time when setting up your sleeping quarters. For those with room to spare, a cot can be an excellent add-on. You can even get organizers to hang off the cot's side to keep personal items within reach. Don't forget a pillow. Camp pillows feature a soft casing (often flannel). Small models are available with the space-conscious camper in mind and can be compressed when packed. Small accessories can help make your tent more comfortable, especially in rainy weather. Portable, battery operated lights and lanterns, small radios, and fans are some examples. Look for these accessories in camping tent models that can be hung from the ceiling or suspended another way so you're not forced to hold them. A deck of cards, a small board game and a book are good to have too in case you get caught in a day-long downpour. It's a good idea to bring some extra supplies for your tent, especially tent pegs. A mallet for driving in and removing stakes is another time saving device. Finally, a spare piece of carpet, or an actual mat, is handy to leave outside your tent door to hold footwear and wipe muddy feet.

Customer Testimonial Sleeping Bag Purchase

Folks in customer service take the time to find out your precise needs and then offer a variety of choices that match them. With grace, expertise, even a little humor. And the inventory is top notch. I purchased what’s called The Big Johnson sleeping bag by Black Pine Sports. Best I’ve ever had, like being inside a cloud. I recommend FamilyTentCamping wholeheartedly.

Thanks,
Steve

Visit www.FamilyTentCamping.com for Sleeping Bags, Camping Cots & Tents

Customer Testimonial - Kodiak Tent Purchase

I want to thank you for the tent I purchased back in August 2010. It is a 10x14 8 person deluxe flex bow canvas tent. Man! This tent has been through the torture test elk hunting in western Montana at 10,000 ft in rain,sleet,hail and snow.Over antelope and deer hunting in the rippin wind and pouring rain in the eastern portion of the state. I cannot say enough good things about this tent but I do know this,that tent stayed upright and kept me dry in all of my fall and winter outtings here in Montana.
Thank you.
Walt

www.FamilyTentCamping.com