Whether you like taking a trailer or motorhome or prefer a tent, there are thousands of products out there ready to make your next camping trip more convenient and fun. When it comes to tents, generators, and sleeping bags, you probably have your favorite gear ready to go on that special shelf in your garage. Here are some items you may not know about that you'll want the minute you see them.
Gorilla My Dreams
We hate to admit it, but duct tape isn't a magical fix-all. That's why there's Gorilla Tape. It uses a combination of double-sticky adhesive and two layers of offset cloth to create a tape that's said to be more than twice as strong as regular duct tape. This tape adheres to plaster, wood, masonry, stucco, and brick, and works at temperatures up to 200 degrees F. Gorilla Tape; 800/966-8209;3458.
www.gorillatape.comThe Simpsons Go Camping
ARB has come up with a new line of vehicle-mounted tents. Stow the Simpson II on the back or side of your vehicle while headed to your destination, then unfold it on the roof when you're ready to snooze. It's made from waterproof, breathable, mold-resistant polyester/cotton fabric and comes with a high-density foam mattress with removable cover. ARB; 425/264-1391.
www.arbusa.comSpidy Sense
The Spidy Gear Bed Web is another way to ensure your cargo stays put, whether in the bed or on a roof rack. Each Bed Web is made from 6.0mm stretching cord that forms a weblike shape that starts at a stainless-steel ring in the center. There are molded hooks around the perimeter. Four colors are available. Global Accessories; 877/427-8166.
www.global-accessories.comSweet Dreams
ENO's SingleNest is a full-size hammock that packs down to the size of a softball when not in use. It's made from high-strength breathable woven nylon and uses nautical-grade line, weighs 18 ounces, and can hold up to 400 pounds. Two-person models also are available; both come in a variety of colors. Eagles Nest Outfitters; 828/252-7808.
www.eaglesnestoutfittersinc.comULTRA-THIN Boat
This may look like a typical boat, but the Porta-Bote is different from metal-hulled or inflatable boats - this 14-foot, four-seater folds down to four inches tall. Its composite resin hull weighs half that of an aluminum hull, needs only four inches of water to float, and can accommodate a 9.8-horsepower engine. Eight-, 10-, and 12-foot models also are available. Porta-Bote; 800/227-8882.
www.porta-bote.com