How Do I Make Lightweight Camping Equipment?

hazel sticks image by Florin Capilnean from Fotolia.com

A camping excursion can take you to the backwoods of a remote location or to a popular campsite. Either way, you'll want to pack light and reduce unnecessary items that will just bog you down and take up space you don't have. The best way to maximize space is to make lightweight camping equipment out of basic items that you would take on a camping trip anyway.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Make a Lightweight Tent

Things You’ll Need:

Tarp
4 3-foot sticks
2 Plastic bags
2 Insulated blankets
Tape

Step 1

Drape a tarp over the branch of a Pine tree or any sturdy tree that is near your campsite. The branch must be at least 3 feet above the ground.

Step 2

Build a structure for the tent using four large sticks. Each stick must be 3 feet (or equal to the height of the tree branch). Position two sticks just under the tree branch, near the front opening of the tarp. (Either side can be used as the front.)

Step 3

Lean the two sticks against each other, so the top of one stick is touching the top of the other stick. The bottom ends of both sticks will be separated. Imagine that you are creating a two-sided triangle without a bottom.

Step 4

Secure the sticks with tape at the top. You may need to offset the sticks an inch or two so you can wrap the tape more easily.

Step 5

Repeat steps 2, 3 and 4 with the other two sticks to secure the back opening of the tarp. The sticks will hold the tarp in place and create depth so the tarp is not just hanging down. The tarp will now mimic a lightweight tent.

Step 6

Tape together two plastic bags so they overlap. Lay the bags end to end, so they cover the length of the tarp. The bags will protect your sleeping bag, which you will make in section 2.

Make a Lightweight Sleeping Bag

Step 1

Construct a sleeping bag using silver tape and two insulated blankets.

Step 2

Lay one blanket on top of the other so that each corner is touching.

Step 3

Tape the sides together leaving a 5- to 6-inch allowance at the top so you can easily slide into and out of the sleeping bag. It is best to tape the blankets using individual pieces instead of one long piece. Tear off one 4-inch piece at a time and tape up each side.

Tips & Warnings

If you do not have a stake, you can break (or cut) a broomstick into four pieces. Sharpen the pieces before leaving for your campsite. A pointed stick is also effective.

You can drive stakes into the ground using a heavy rock.

Resources

Camp Shower

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

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