Gifts for Campers 2008

The Model 6010 is Kodiak's 10x10 ft deluxe Flex-Bow canvas tent. This tent is for those campers who want a heavy duty tent that they can rely on to keep them dry from the rain and stand up in the wind. There is enough room for a family of 6, yet one person can set it up in about 10-15 minutes. Everything about this tent is quality. MSRP: $429

The Springbar Campsite canvas tent is the perfect car camping tent for two campers. It's well constructed and uses quality materials. One person can set it up in less than 15 minutes. You can stand up in this tent, and there's room to spare for two sleeping adults. It offers great rain protection, and it's very stable in the wind. MSRP: $430

AirZone Recreation has replaced rigid-pole tents with their innovative inflatable air-pole models. The technology is simple. Inflatable air-poles are zippered to the tent seams. An air-compressor that plugs into a car's cigarette lighter is included with the tent. Plug in the air-compressor, attach it to the tent's intake valve, turn it on, and the tent inflates in a few minutes while you sit and watch. Made of quality materials. This tent is strong and durable, and it has features not found in standard tents. Available in 2, 3, 4 and 6-person models from AirZone Recreation. MSRP: $499

The Kelty Trail Dome 4 is a 4-man (backpacking) tent that is easy to assemble, lightweight and economical. It only weighs about 8 pounds, and one person can set it up in 10 minutes. Features include aluminum poles for strength, polyester rainfly with UV protection, factory-sealed seams (fly and floor), and a clip design for quick and easy set up. MSRP: $160

The Eureka Zeus 4EXO is a quality tent that packs easily in the car or on your backpack. Meant as a 4-person backpacking tent, it also works for those small families looking for a compact lightweight car camping tent. MSRP: $240

You'll sleep well and stay warm in the Eureka Sandstone rectangular sleeping bag. Rated to 30 degrees, this is a great 3-season sleeping bag.

A new concept (a sleeping bag with arms, legs and a hood), the Selk 'bag Sleep Wear System by Lippi retains the functionality of a traditional sleeping bag, but allows you to move your legs and arms apart freely, thus creating a multi-functioning sleeping bag, mummy suit and blanket all in one. It is well constructed of quality materials and comes in sizes to fit people from 5'5" to 6'4". Bag #1 is rated for 49˚F down to 32˚F. Bag #2 is rated for 47˚F down to 14˚F. MSRP: bag #1 - $149, bag #2 - $229.

This is a great set of sleeping bags that zip together so couples can sleep next to each other while camping. They are too heavy and bulky to use for backpacking, but they are ideal for car camping. They are roomy, and the flannel lining is very comfortable. The taffeta shell is durable and easy to clean. Rated at 40°, these bags will work from spring to fall. They use Slumberloft HQ™ polyester fiberfill insulation, which provides efficient heat retention. Cost: $79.99

These sleeping pads are big, thick and cozy. Kirkham's oversize open cell foam pads are very comfortable. I bought two of these for use with my Slumberjack double sleeping bag. These pads are more than adequate for a good night's sleep. MSRP: $49.99

The Cobb Premier is a unique little grill that can do it all. It grills, bakes, roasts, smokes, fries and more. The size of this grill makes it ideal for a balcony, picnic table or tail-gate. It's all stainless steel and only weighs 9 pounds, so you can take it just about anywhere. Eight charcoals can supply up to three hours of cooking. The grilling area is adequate to cook for four people. Its cool-to-the-touch base is safe to handle, and the dishwasher-safe components come apart easily for cleaning. (Enter promotion code "sweet" to get 20% off your order at www.portable-grill-store.com or www.cobbq.com.) MSRP: $149