Beginner Camping Gear

[melonhead]

Trying to do a little research on camping gear. I need the expert's advice...you guys!
Im new and looking for stuff I can comfortably afford.

GPS- Garmin eTrex H. Reviews look good but wondering if I should put a little more money into a GPS.

http://www.bestbuy.com/si...1324384&skuId=9263307

Stove- MSR Pocket Rocket

http://www.rei.com/product/660163

OR Primus Classic Stove

http://www.campsaver.com/...sp?ic=319309#ReviewHeader


Also, any other supplies I might need, feel free to suggest. Thanks for all advice!

[melonhead]

Trying to do a little research on camping gear. I need the expert's advice...you guys!
Im new and looking for stuff I can comfortably afford.

GPS- Garmin eTrex H. Reviews look good but wondering if I should put a little more money into a GPS.

http://www.bestbuy.com/si...1324384&skuId=9263307

Stove- MSR Pocket Rocket

http://www.rei.com/product/660163

OR Primus Classic Stove

http://www.campsaver.com/...sp?ic=319309#ReviewHeader


Also, any other supplies I might need, feel free to suggest. Thanks for all advice!

[Verduretiger]

MSR creates good gear.  I have always used the MSR Whisperlite Stove.  I bought my first one in the mid 80s and I just bought my second one last week in that Alabama Outdoors had a 40% off sale.  Great price. 

[Joshua Szulecki]

I merged the two identical posts you made, hence the double-post now in here...

I hear good things about the eTrex. However, what kind of hiking/outdoor activities do you do? That is the most important factor in choosing a GPS.

If you do any bushwhacking at all you will want a GPS with better maps, like the Delorme PN-series, or the Garmin Colorado/Oregon lines. I use a Delorme PN-40, mostly due to the support for both vector and raster (scanned picture) maps, including original USGS topo quads and NOAA nav charts. If you geocache a lot, a more feature-rich GPS might be in order, but for basic occasionally caching I know a number of people use an eTrex. Trail hikers can usually get by with a simple GPS, since vector-based trail maps are usually horribly inaccurate anyway, and raster maps are out of date.

Don't assume your GPS will come with topo maps. Most lower-end models do not, and you have to spend an additonal $100 or so for the maps. I wouldn't buy a GPS without having topo maps these days. A few more expensive Garmins, and all Delorme models come with the maps included in the box. The cheapest DeLorme is the PN-30, which is still pricey and lacks a compass, but includes $100 worth of topo maps. I don't immediatly recall the current prices on the Garmins with maps in the box.

I don't really camp due to the dog, so I can't help you on camping gear.  

[melonhead]

I was looking into purchasing a GPS mainly for trail hiking, locating those hard to find places that required coordinates. I wasnt aware the one I was looking into buying didnt come with topo maps though. Guess Im gonna dig a little deeper into my pockets.

Thanks for merging the thread. I didnt know how to delete it once I realized it was in the wrong section.

[Joshua Szulecki]

All but the cheapest GPS units come with a basemap which includes major US roads. It is basically useless, but because the box says "map" on it, people fall for it, since they don't expect it to be as limited. That said, if you have the coordinates for something, a trail hiker might be able to get by without topo maps. I wouldn't do it, but I've seen people who do.

The minimum I would accept would be 100k vector topographic maps.  

The following current Garmin GPSr units include topo maps with the device:
Oregon 550t
Oregon 450t
Oregon 400t
GPSMAP 62st

I think any model with a "t" in it includes built-in maps. Almost ALL Garmin units can use topo maps from Garmin at extra cost. The eTrex, as far as I know, can use Garmin's maps. Figure an extra $75-100 for maps on a Garmin, at least the last time I checked.

All of the current Delorme PN-series models (PN-30, PN-40, PN-60) come with TOPO USA (now version 9.0) included, whihc provides 100k vector maps for the US, and maybe, but don't quote me, now Canada too. Unlike the Garmin units, the maps are not pre-installed, but rather you choose which maps you want on the device and at what detail. The PN-series can also accept maps from Delorme's map plan. Like the lower-end Garmins, the maps are mostly stored on removeable memory cards, so you can swap maps out in the field if you need to.

I'm not particularly impressed with what Magellan has to offer.

So... The long story short... You can use the eTrex, but will have to buy maps, so factor that in when deciding which GPS to buy.

[weathermansam]

Be aware that the etrex H, which I have, probably the cheapest of the models, doesn't have or support maps at all.  I use it just to have something to store lat/long points on, and for that, it works great.  I would recommend taking extra sets of rechargeable batteries, and don't bother with the regular alkaline, it eats through them like they're candy. 

[Bud Bud]

I have the Etrex vista for almost 3 years now bought it as a kit with the maps topo and road. You can get maps pretty cheep on ebay. I have gotten pretty good battery life but always keep some extra's.

[Joshua Szulecki]

More regarding batteries... Basically assume that you'll need to pick up some rechargeable batteries or use lithium disposables in any device with a color screen that uses AA batteries. Most gps units are now color. I generally recommend a primary set of 4 (most units use 2 at a time) rechargeable batteries (currently Duracell 2650 in my gear) and a backup package of lithium disposable batteries in your pack, at least on any trip where getting lost makes the difference between getting home today, or getting home tomorrow.

I had forgotten that some outfits package the maps with units, or sell them together, usually at a decent discount. That might be a good option. But, I wouldn't touch any unit without topo support and a memory card slot to put a card with the maps. Like Sam noted, the eTrex H does not support topos.  

I would caution against buying maps on eBay if the are not the most recent available (or not more than a two years old) that are compatible with whatever device you end up buying. I made the mistake of trying that route several years ago with a Magellan gps that I owned, and learned that the cash saved by buying old maps is not worth the frustration when the map is wrong due to road changes, etc... I spent on very annoying afternoon in lost in Clay and Talladega counties in late 05.  

[JC785]

 I have the Etrex Venture it works well for what I do and gets decent battery life, it also came with the topo software. You can't go wrong with the pocket rocket.

[Joshua Szulecki]

The eTrex Venture HC looks like a decent deal right now. It doesn't have a memory card slot, so you'd be limited with regard to how much map area you could carry with you, but it does support topos.

http://www.amazon.com/Gar...qid=1280709101&sr=1-1

[JC785]

The eTrex Venture HC looks like a decent deal right now. It doesn't have a memory card slot, so you'd be limited with regard to how much map area you could carry with you, but it does support topos.

http://www.amazon.com/Gar...qid=1280709101&sr=1-1

That's the only bad thing about it, but I have all of sipsey, pinhoti, and our 2 hunting club topo maps on there right now and still could add a few more. Its not bad for the price. I want the delorme but cant justify paying  the price for it since the venture is still kicking.

[Joshua Szulecki]

I have the Etrex Venture it works well for what I do and gets decent battery life, it also came with the topo software. You can't go wrong with the pocket rocket.

The original venture, or one of the lettered variants? I thought the original didn't support topos?

Btw... I was trying to find an outfit that sells the topo maps in a kit and haven't found one yet. Any suggestions for him?

[JC785]

Its the etrex venture hc, I bought it at dicks sporting goods about 2.5 years ago.

[Joshua Szulecki]

That's the only bad thing about it, but I have all of sipsey, pinhoti, and our 2 hunting club topo maps on there right now and still could add a few more. Its not bad for the price. I want the delorme but cant justify paying  the price for it since the venture is still kicking.

Hey, if it still works!

I've gotten so bad about maps now after several trips where I didn't have map data that I have a special emergency 32gb sd card with most of the United States on it. I think it might be missing AK and HI due to space constraints.

However, I tend to find myself in weird places more than most, so for most people that,would likely be excessive. Heck, it is excessive for me, but was motivated by shear annoyance at a trip last October. I crossed into Illinois and realized I hadn't loaded map data for that state, and my destination was just inside the state...

But I digress.

[jedbear]

Frankly, if I were in a position where I was very restricted to a budget, I would put a GPS on hold until
when my income was more lucrative. This  would allow me to spend a little more money on the pieces
of gear that would make my hiking safer and more enjoyable. I have an old Magellan and a very new
Delorme PN-40. Neither go on hikes with me; I take a topo and compass. I use the GPS for trail work
and development. When I began acquiring my first serious gear, I bought good, but not best, gear.
Over the years I spend more money less often on the gear I research to be what I want and need.
Good equipment should outlast the cheaper. Even now I am deciding what piece I will invest in maybe
in the next few months.

                                 jed

[melonhead]

Appreciate all the info/conversations on GPS. Honestly, I do not know the slightest things about them so I would not know what to look for and what not to look for. At least I got a better idea now. The eTrex Venture looks like something up my alley.

Black Friday will be my splurge day for hiking/camping equipment. I wont mind waiting a few months. We tried to camp in florida last week, and I was sweating the entire night, getting very little sleep. Lesson learned.

[melonhead]

MSR creates good gear.  I have always used the MSR Whisperlite Stove.  I bought my first one in the mid 80s and I just bought my second one last week in that Alabama Outdoors had a 40% off sale.  Great price. 

Verduretiger. Was your whisperlite 40 pct off? Because I went into the Mobile store today, and the MSV stoves were one of the few things that didnt have the 40% off tag on it.

[ednotmilkman]

Hey Melonhead,
If you are ready to experiment with a GPS unit,  you can try my old DeLorme pn-20 that I have not used since I upgraded to the pn-40.  I'll give you 30 days to try it out if you have good reference like an e-bay account with perfect rating.  It has the same maps as the pn-40; it's just slower to aquire the fix in thick woods and under a roof. And it redraws the map slower when you move or are moving the curser.  If you hike in winter and spring , you shouldn't notice much difference.  you will notice a difference as far as slow redraws when you use it in a faster moving vehicle.
 
Not sure what it is worth now??  Less than $100 for sure, let me know if interested.  The thing comes with the whole map program for your computer also.  You use the computer program before the trip to plan all the routes you might use-  then download them onto the GPS unit before you go out. Just don't forget to also download detailed topo maps for each state from the DVD to the SD card in the GPS also if you travel far from home.   My 2 gig card holds AL, GA, and 1/2 of FL I believe.

[melonhead]

Definitely interested. I need something cost friendly that I can get fully accustomed to using being fresh to GPS units. It will be alot of trial and error for me.

Ill shoost you a pm.

[dogwood]

I've got both the MSR Whisperlite and the Pocket-Rocket.  Both are good stoves - Pocket Rocket is best for warm to cooler weather, very light and compact, brings water to a boil quickly; Whisperlite is great for cooler to cold weather, easy to clean/maintain in the field, and has a good flame.  The Whisperlite is larger, weighs more(also has to use white gas), and is trickier to light.  As far as beginner gear, i've been backpacking since 1987(less frequently when i started) and have upgraded my gear many times over the years.  Look for deals on Ebay, Alabama Outdoors/Mtn. High Outfitters/Bass Pro Shops/Coleman Outlets/even Wal-Mart!. 

[wirerat123]

Stove: http://jwbasecamp.com/Articles/SuperCat/index.html

I know it seems hokey, but they are super light, super dependable, and super cheap.  So easy to make, a group of boy scouts could easily make their own stoves and do it successfully.  Go to the ABC store and get one of the small plastic flasks of whiskey to use as fuel storage, mine holds about 8oz and fits in a side pocket of my pack and takes up barely any room (Make sure you mark it FUEL so you don't drink it!!!).

I most of the time use a Jetboil, and it's worth every penny, but I'm learning to get used to a home made alchohol stove because they are light, easy, dependable, and cheap to operate.

As far as the GPS is concerned, I really really think it is important first and foremost to get used to using a map and compass.  It's intimidating at first, but once it starts clicking you will think to yourself "Why the heck did that seem so hard to me?"  Save the GPS for once you are familiar with using a compass and map.  Compass and Maps do not fail if you take proper care to store them while hiking.  GPS can get wet, batteries can die, you can drop and break it, etc.  I've even seen one taken out of a pack and the screen had cracked from pressure in the pack pocket.  If you are dependant on it, then you are screwed.  Plus most great trails are marked well enough that it's not worth it to invest the money in a GPS.  Unless you are going bushwacking in Montana, you should be fine.  I'm not saying you shouldn't get one, but for now consider the alternatives.  A GPS system doesn't help you if something happens to it.  Having a map and compass available and the ability to use it in case the GPS fails is a comfort in the worst case scenario.

I will NEVER depend on a GPS as my primary navigation device.  I've been navigating with compass and map since scouts.  Why pay hundreds for a GPS when I can buy a $20 compass, and a $5 map and go anywhere at any time with no fear of getting list?  I've gotten good enough with map reading I don't really have to even use a compass anymore.   In the military I went to the navigation course, grabbed the map, plotted the locations of the points of interest, gave the NCOIC back the compass, laughted and ran off to go to my points.  I found my points and got back to base 45 minutes faster than the next fastest individual.

As far as the rest of your backpacking gear is concerned, what do you already have that you will be using?  What are you missing from your kit?  What are your intended goals?  I've been backpacking off and on for around 23 years, and have gone from one extreme to the next with exception of Alpine backpacking as I have no interest in camping in snow fields.  Me and my current wife are eyeing the future and slowly training up for a Through Hike of the AT.

[Verduretiger]

The whisperlite was 40% off at the Homewood store.  I bought it a few days after the sale started. 

[melonhead]

The whisperlite was 40% off at the Homewood store.  I bought it a few days after the sale started. 

Ahh sweet, I guess the sales differed from store to store. Id def had bought one at 40% off.

[Tacky Hiker]

If you want to boil water, pocket rocket is great. Worked great for me.