Gear for microadventures Archives

Top pieces of gear that I often bring on microadventures

June 12, 2023 By admin Leave a Comment

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Today I will list two great items I often bring with me on microadventures.

My personal favourite ☕ The coffee maker
I enjoy my time out there. And I enjoy it even more if I can have my coffee during a hike or in the mornings on an overnighter.

To me, the great outdoors is all about finding the perfect mental state. Recharging my batteries and having a great time. I love to be on the move, but I also enjoy the peaceful moments.

For boiling the water I most often use my Primus Lite+ system. It’s reliable, quick and does not use much gas.

And works like a charm for the as well 😉

For the coffee brewing process, I have a lot of different options. But for camps with more than me or when I know that I need lots of coffee, I use my GSI Java Press.

The kid’s favourite 🔪 The child-friendly knife
To me, microadventures are often with the kids. And I am yet to experience a kid that does not love to use the knife for cutting a stick once in a while.

So if family adventures in the great outdoors are your thing? Make sure to bring a knife for the kids.

Two great knives could be the Morakniv Scout or the Opinel No. 7

Your Solution for Hot Food and Coffee During Fire Bans and Drought

June 12, 2023 By Bjarke Rosenbeck Leave a Comment

Fire ban. And you’re about to head out into nature for an overnight stay with plans for hot food and, most importantly, a cup of hot morning coffee. Here’s your solution in the form of a heater bag and accompanying heating elements.

I personally bought this product during the last drought. Back then, the products quickly sold out. But they saved my outdoor trips where I couldn’t light a bonfire, use a gas stove, or my Trangia camp stove.

There are probably several manufacturers, but the one I bought and used is the Tactical Foodpack Heaterbag. This groundbreaking heating device lets you heat freeze-dried food and brew coffee even during fire bans or droughts. Let’s dive into how this technology works and how it can be useful for adventurers and nature lovers.

What is a Tactical Foodpack Heaterbag?

The Tactical Foodpack Heaterbag is a compact, reusable heating device designed specifically for outdoor use. It consists of an insulated bag where you insert a heating element activated by approximately 150ml of cold water. Through a chemical reaction, the heating element generates significant heat, which is transferred to your dinner pouch or a container/bag of water for coffee. This process creates an efficient and reliable heat source that can warm up food and drinks without an open fire.

What you’ll need:

1 heater bag. It can be used at least 10 times before it should be replaced for safety reasons.

Heater elements

You can buy the product here:
Please note that on the German shops, you will find their English version by clicking the flag at the bottom of the page 😉

Heating freeze-dried food:

Freeze-dried food is a popular solution for outdoor meals due to its ease of transport and long shelf life. However, traditionally, freeze-dried food requires hot water for rehydration and heating. This is where the Tactical Foodpack Heater bag comes in. By simply placing the freeze-dried food pouch filled with cold water into the heating unit and adding a little water, you can heat up and revive the meal without needing an open fire. This is convenient during fire bans and can be used before a potential fire ban when you assess that drought could pose a risk of wildfires with open flames.

Brewing coffee:

For many people (including myself ☕), a cup of coffee is an important part of the morning routine, whether in nature or at home. With the Tactical Foodpack Heaterbag, you can brew a hot cup of coffee even when you’re far away from a coffee machine or a bonfire. By using an empty pouch containing freeze-dried food, you can fill it with water and repeat the process of adding a heating element, a pouch of water, and a little cold water at the bottom of your heater bag. And voila, your water is now heated for your morning coffee.

Safe and easy to handle:

The Tactical Foodpack Heaterbag is practical and safe to use. It doesn’t require using fossil fuels or gas, and it leaves no soot or ash. It uses chemical heat packs that are safe and easy to handle. However, be aware that when you use your heater bag, the water inside becomes hot, and the steam that rises from it is also very hot.

Conclusion:

The Tactical Foodpack Heaterbag is a remarkable innovation in outdoor equipment that provides a safe and convenient way to heat freeze-dried food and brew coffee even during fire bans or droughts. This portable heating device eliminates the need for an open fire. It allows adventurers and nature lovers to enjoy hot meals and drinks in nature without starting the next catastrophic wildfire. So, next time you plan an outdoor trip, include the Tactical Foodpack Heaterbag on your packing list for a hassle-free and enjoyable food experience.

Bonus information:

Not all freeze-dried food tastes equally good. And even though I’m crazy about the Tactical Foodpacks Heater pack, unfortunately, I can’t say the same about their freeze-dried meals.

My taste buds are met with food that tastes more like bad flour (although it can be eaten).

Instead, try the dishes from Real Turmat or Trail.

Review of Keith Titanium Wood Stove

June 1, 2023 By Bjarke Rosenbeck Leave a Comment

Fire is just cosy, and if you can also use it for cooking or heating water for coffee and tea, it becomes both cosy and practical on many trips. And all of this without having to build a huge bonfire.

This is where a Wood Stove or Bushcraft Stove comes in handy. They come in various shapes and models, and today we’ll focus on one of the more compact and lightweight options.

The Keith Ti2201 weighs only 318g and, when assembled, measures 125mm x 125mm x 160mm. This size allows for a stable and secure pot placement, such as a Trangia. And if you’re going minimalist (which you probably are on some trips?!), there is a nifty little support on top that ensures your titanium mug can also stand securely on the burner.

One of the advantages of its design is that, with this size (although smaller and not as flat-compact models are also available), you have space for slightly thicker branches. This is beneficial so you don’t have to sit constantly and “feed” your burner.

Oh, if you’re not familiar with the concept and benefits of a bushcraft wood stove, it’s the convenience of using wood from the forest floor. It doesn’t take many small branches to generate enough heat for boiling water in your mug, kettle, or pot.

And let me tell you; it’s easy to get too much heat when you want to surprise your family with freshly made pancakes after an overnight stay on the beach 😉

Using the Keith Wood Stove Bushcraft stove on the beach for making pancakes

When packed, the stove takes up no more than 125mm x 160mm x 10mm.

It also comes with a carrying pouch, which is great so that you don’t end up with a soot-covered piece of titanium and anodized aluminium trying to fit it alongside your last pair of clean underwear. However, I must mention that while the burner itself exudes quality and sleek design, the same cannot be said for the cheap and flimsy zipper chosen for the storage pouch.

I have a video review as well.

My tips for starting a fire in a wood stove

You don’t need much to get a fire going on your stove. But to make it a bit easier for you, I recommend having some fatwood or Light My Fire Tindersticks and a little bit of paper to place at the bottom of the top grate of the stove. This grate has holes, and without a small piece of paper, you risk having your finely shredded fatwood falling through onto the solid bottom grate. And that won’t be very useful.

But with those two things in your pocket, along with a match or two, you’ll quickly get your fire going and let the cosy atmosphere spread while you wait for the water to heat up for your coffee.

No more of that squealing sound from the usual noisy gas burner 🙂

Specs:

Weight: 318g

Dimensions: 125mm x 125mm x 160mm

Material: Titanium and anodized aluminium

Price: Approximately €70

Buy here

Why I love a down vest for spring

March 1, 2023 By Bjarke Rosenbeck Leave a Comment

As the weather begins to warm up in the spring, it can be difficult to know what to wear when heading out into the great outdoors. With fluctuating temperatures and unpredictable weather, finding the right balance of comfort and practicality can be a challenge. One option to consider is a down vest, a versatile and lightweight garment that can provide warmth without weighing you down.

Should I Wear a Vest Instead of a Jacket?

One of the primary benefits of a down vest is its versatility. While a jacket can be bulky and difficult to layer, a vest can easily be worn over a t-shirt or long-sleeved shirt and under a jacket or raincoat. This makes it an excellent option for unpredictable weather or outdoor activities where you need to stay warm but also need the flexibility to move around. Vests are also great for layering in situations where you may need to adjust your body temperature frequently, such as when hiking or camping.

How to Layer with a Vest?

Layering with a down vest is easy and can help you achieve the perfect balance of warmth and comfort. Start with a base layer such as a t-shirt or lightweight long-sleeved shirt. Next, add your down vest, making sure it fits snugly but doesn’t restrict your movement. If the weather is particularly chilly, you can then add a jacket or raincoat over the top. This layering system allows you to remove or add layers as necessary to maintain your body temperature throughout the day.

Care and Maintenance

Taking proper care of your down vest is essential to ensure it lasts for years to come. When washing your vest, always check the care label to see if it can be machine washed or if it requires dry cleaning. Use a gentle detergent and wash on a gentle cycle to avoid damaging the down filling. When drying, air-drying is recommended, but if you must use a dryer, use a low heat setting and add a couple of clean tennis balls to help fluff up the down filling.

Warmth

When it comes to warmth, down vests are tough to beat. The down filling is excellent at trapping body heat and insulating your core, making it an ideal option for cooler weather. Down vests also tend to be more lightweight than jackets, which means you can wear them for extended periods without feeling weighed down or uncomfortable. This makes them a great choice for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or fishing where you need to stay warm but still want to be mobile.

A Synthetic Option

While down vests are popular for their warmth and lightweight construction, some people prefer synthetic options. Synthetic vests are made from man-made materials such as polyester or nylon and offer similar warmth and insulation to down vests. They are also typically more affordable than down vests and easier to care for since they can be machine washed and dried. One great option for men is the Patagonia Men’s Nano Puff Vest, which is made from 100% recycled polyester and features a water-resistant finish.

Why It Should Be Down or Synthetic?

When choosing a vest for outdoor activities, you should consider down or synthetic filling. Down is made from the soft underbelly feathers of ducks and geese and is an excellent insulator. However, it can be expensive and may not be the best option if you’re looking for a cruelty-free option. Synthetic filling, on the other hand, is typically more affordable and easier to care for. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a cruelty-free and eco-friendly choice. Ultimately, the choice between down and synthetic comes down to personal preference and your specific needs. Both options offer excellent warmth and insulation, so it’s up to you to decide which one is the best fit for your outdoor adventures.

In conclusion, a down vest is an excellent option for enjoying the great outdoors in the spring. And these are some great options to consider:

Down vests – UK first, then EU/DK

Annonce i samarbejde med PriceRunner

Synthetic vests – UK first, then EU/DK

Annonce i samarbejde med PriceRunner

Explore insects with your kids

January 20, 2023 By Bjarke Rosenbeck Leave a Comment

Exploring the world of insects can be a thrilling and educational experience for children. Not only does it give them the opportunity to spend time outdoors and appreciate nature, but it also allows them to learn about the diverse and fascinating world of insects.

Table of content

The benefit of exploring insects
How to figure out what it is
Ideas on how to find the insects
Great gear to use

The benefit of exploring insects

Kids using an insect glass on microadventure

One of the biggest benefits of exploring insects for children is that it allows them to engage in hands-on learning. Instead of just reading about insects in a book or watching a video, children can get out there and see and touch the insects by them self. Of cause guided by an adult if there are ‘not safe to catch’-insects near by. This allows them to see the different colors, shapes, and sizes of insects and to learn about their unique characteristics and behaviors.

Another benefit of exploring insects is that it encourages children to be curious on what this insect does and how it lives and eats.

How to figure out what it is

The app iNaturalist can be of great help, as this app lets you shoot a picture and then it will tell you a lot about this insect.

Exploring insects also helps children learn about the importance of insects in the ecosystem. They can learn about the role insects play in pollination, pest control, and decomposition. This can help children understand the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of preserving biodiversity.

Additionally, exploring insects can be a great way for children to develop a love and appreciation for nature. By spending time outdoors and observing the natural world, children can learn to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the environment around them. This can lead to a lifelong interest in conservation and environmentalism.

Ideas on how to find the insects

There are many different ways that children can explore insects, such as catching and observing them, creating a bug hotel, or even creating their own insect habitat in their backyard. Some children might enjoy collecting and identifying different types of insects, while others may prefer to learn about the different habitats and food sources of insects.

Catching and observing insects can be done with simple tools such as a bug catcher or a magnifying glass, which can be purchased at most toy or nature stores. Children can catch insects and observe them up close, learning about their different physical characteristics and behaviors. They can also release the insects back into the wild once they are finished observing them.

Creating a bug hotel is another fun and educational activity for children. A bug hotel is a simple structure that provides shelter and nesting sites for insects. Children can use natural materials such as sticks, leaves, and stones to create a bug hotel in their backyard. This can help attract a variety of insects to the area and provide children with an opportunity to observe them up close.

Creating an insect habitat in your backyard is another fun and educational activity for children. This can be done by creating a garden or small pond that provides food and shelter for different types of insects. Children can learn about the different types of plants and insects that live in the area, and can also learn about the importance of preserving natural habitats for these creatures.

Overall, exploring insects is a fun and educational activity for children that allows them to engage in hands-on learning, getting to know more about what they find in nature, and learn about the importance of insects in the ecosystem. It can also help children develop a love and appreciation for nature and a lifelong interest in conservation and environmentalism. With so many different ways to explore insects, there is something for every child to enjoy.

Great gear to use

Insectglass

UK option

DK option

Annonce i samarbejde med PriceRunner

Insect hotel

UK option

DK option

Annonce i samarbejde med PriceRunner

The best tick remover – and it’s cheap

August 22, 2021 By Bjarke Rosenbeck Leave a Comment

My recommendation for removing the ticks can be found below, along with the description of all the other tick removers I have tried over the years.

Down in the forest floor, the tick lurks the little dung beetle, ready to cling to me and suck my blood. Not only that, there is a small risk that the tick will carry diseases with it.

But but but, the forest and the tick are not dangerous as long as you take some very simple precautions. The most important thing is to get the tick removed again as soon as possible and preferably as easily as possible.

As a scout leader, orienteering runner, mountain biker and outdoor enthusiast, I have seen and removed countless ticks from myself and others.

Over the years, I have also used everything from a pair of pliers in a multitool to the smartest tick remover. I have to say hello and say that there is a big difference in how effective all the many wonder gadgets actually are.

Here is a guide to six tools to remove the small ticks from the body – tested on your own or other people’s bodies 😉

Crowbar type Tick Remover

The tick remover I did not know I was missing. So right up until I bought my first. This model comes in a package of two sizes and has proven to be an extremely effective tool for removing ticks from the skin.

The wrecking bar design makes it easy to get to the tick and the design is just spot on to get down around the tick’s body and be able to twist it free of the skin without the risk of squeezing the body on the tick.

My warmest recommendations of a simple product that does not weigh much and does not cost much.

Have it lying in the drawer at home and in your first aid kit on a trip, then you are well equipped.

Leatherman Multitool

On the trip to Scotland, we did not escape the tick bite. But in the first aid kit, there were no tick removers. So good advice was expensive and a Leatherman Multitool did the job as an emergency solution.

However, my recommendation is to have a better weapon in the fight against ticks.

Tweezers

Ordinary tweezers are a little easier to operate than a multitool. Still, it is not the most obvious tool and I think it can be difficult to get hold of the little animal without the risk of squeezing the animal’s stomach contents into the bidet by squeezing the tick on the body. With the increased risk of disease transmission.

My recommendation is that you save the tweezers for the splinters in your fingers.

Credit card type

There are a number of variants of tick removers that are shaped like business cards and are flat. The big advantage is that they can lie in your purse and you thus have it on you.

But as tick removers, they seem downright miserable and all too often, once I have had such a card available, it has been difficult let alone impossible to get under the body of the animal and twist it free.

I can not recommend the credit card type tick removers at all. Do you have one then throw it out!

Trix Tick Remover

The second best tool to remove the tick if you ask me. The small lasso-like string is easy to get under the tick and then “just” needs to be tightened.

“Just” in goosebumps because it works, but personally I do not think it’s quite as easy as with O’Tom’s Tick Twister. But does it work then? Yes Trix tick remover is pretty excellent.

But the best tick remover – that is the crow bar type Tick Remover

If you want to read more about ticks, you can find a bit more info here. And also, be aware that you can find ticks all year round. Most often, you will find them from early spring to late fall. So be advised. Tics are not just a summer phenomenon.