Backcountry Beacon

After reading Sierra Descents’ recent review of the Thermarest Dreamtime, I took one look at my skimpy five-year-old ultralight sleeping pad and shook my head. What a disgrace to car-camping. I’ve spent the last few years specializing my gear in the other direction—lighter skis, outerwear, packs, underwear, sporks.

It’s time for some luxury.

So I revisited Backcountry.com’s Camping Gear Guide to see where to begin.

All the rules just went out the window because you don’t have to carry your gear anymore. Only the size of your vehicle limits the comfort of your camp …

Ahh yeah. Here’s my Car Camping Dream Set Up:

MSR Mutha Hubba Tent

I’m not a huge fan of big family camping tents, so this MSR tent seems like a great alternative. The 3-person MSR Mutha Hubba is roomy, has lots of vents and two large doors.

Therm-A-Rest Dream Time Sleeping Pad

I have to take Sierra Descents‘ lead here. Just look at the other community reviews: “amazing sleeping pad” … “I love this pad” … “Where have you been all my life?” … Nice.

Big Agnes Cabin Creek Sleeping Bag

For me, car-camping usually takes place with my significant other, so a double sleeping bag is a must. The Big Agnes Cabin Creek has zippers on either side, a water-resistant coating, pillow pockets, and sleeves for our sleeping pads.

GSI Macro Table

I don’t have the luxury of a pickup tailgate, so a camp table it is. The GSI Macro Table is sturdy and can accommodate two people.

Lafuma Futura Clipper Wood Arm Chair

I’ve had my fair share of crappy camp chairs. The Lafuma Futura Clipper Wood Arm Chair is better than my living room furniture.

Brunton Profile Duo Range/Grill Combo Stove

I’m a little biased here because I already have a Brunton Profile Duo Range/Grill … But this thing is sweet. Good grill, hot-burning stove and reliable self-ignition make it ideal. The gas lasts surprisingly long, too. I hear you can retrofit it with a griddle for pancakes and eggs and bacon. mmm … bacon.

MSR Flex 3 Cooking System

The MSR Flex 3 Cooking System takes care of my cooking needs in one fell swoop … although since I’m talking about car-camping here, I could just bring along my cast-iron skillet and dutch oven.

Mountainsmith Cooler Cube

Not much to explain here. It’ll keep my beverages, brats, and cheese cold.

Cleanwaste Portable Toilet

Sometimes you don’t want to go trudging into the woods to dig a cathole, you know?

Cleanwaste Portable Privacy Tent

While we’re at it … why not a little privacy? It cross-ventillates while you’re doing your business, and also doubles as a shower … speaking of which …

MSR Packshower

When you’re living out of your car, you get dirty … stick this thing in the sun for a while and you’ll be able to enjoy a nice warm shower.

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Tags: car camping, gear guides