OK, only 3 weeks left before the trip. Does anyone have any questions on the itinerary, what they need, their rig, etc?
If it helps here's a brief run down on what you should bring (taken from the club site and posted here because geocities will be gone in a couple of months ... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/zombie.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />
VEHICLE ITEMS TO BRING
Spare Keys: You don't want to ask, why.
Spare Tire: Should be the same size as the other four, but 1-2 sizes differnt will still work.
Air Compressor: Inexpensive Walmart/Pepboys units work fine, but quality units like an ARB or Quick Air are recommended.
Vehicle Jack: The stock unit will suffice in many situations, but a HiLift is highly recommended.
Lug WrenchLock Nut Key: You can only imagine in your worst nightmare how crazy you'd get if you couldn't find it on the trail.
Spare Gasoline: Depending on the trip, it's usually a good idea to bring 5-10 gallons. Don't forget to bring the required hardware to open, pour, and reseal your containers.
Motor Oil: 6 Quarts minimum.
Premixed Coolant: 1-2 Gallons is fine
Extra Spark Plugs: Nice, but not necessary. Bring if you want.
First Aid Kit: The bigger the better. This will sound obvious, but make sure you regularly replenish it.
Fire Extinguisher: Make sure you purchase one that can be used for automobile type fires.
TOOLS TO BRINGI've found that you can purchase most all of these as a kit from Sears, or any local hardware store for a reasonable price and it will come in a nice, organized container.
Socket Set: Metric, and Standard for any optional items you 've added.
Adjustable Open End Wrenches: Large, Medium, and Small
Screwdrivers: Small, Medium and Large of both Phillips and Flat Head
Allen Wrench Set: I recommend buying a set that's self contained and not all loose.
Hammer: Medium weight Claw Hammer is all you need but a 2-3lb sledge is good too.
Spark Plug SocketRags: 10 to 20 1'x1' works
Hand Cleaner: The self drying kind is nice, but not that great for the environment, unless you get the one made with Citrus based solvents/cleaners
CAMPING ITEMS TO BRINGThis includes all you general camping gear. If you were never a cub scout, boy scout, brownie, or girl scout, don't worry, it's pretty easy and straight forward and if you're not sure, you can always ask others who camp or ask one of us what we bring.
Tent: Almost always a necessity. Try and get 3-4 season tents which are good almost all year around, are usually water resistant or water proof, and offer adequite ventilation. Bring extra tent stakes, and any neccessary rope to keep them anchored down during foul weather. Also a tent patch kit is pretty inexpensive and good to have in foul weather. A roll of Duct tape works well in a pinch.
Sleeping Bag: Don't skimp here. For your best bet, look for a dual bag that you can use year round.
Stove: Light, Stable, and reliable are what you'll want to look for. There are a variety of stoves requiring a variety of fuels. Each has its own inherent strengths and weaknesses. Ask you local camping store which is the best for your needs.
Cooking / Eating Utensils: Some prefer disposable items while others prefer reusable items. It's really up to you. Either way, keep them in a Sealable Glad bag for ease of storage. Try and find soup ladels/spatula's that fold at a camping store. Kind of expensive, but worth it. Don't forget a couple of Steak Knifes both for food prep as well as eating use.
Matches/Lantern: Waterproof matches are preferred or a butane lighter (full).
Table: Nice to have. A simple folding card table is fine. This gives you room to put your stove, prepare your meals and eat them.
Lantern: Battery operated units are nice for both outdoor and indoor/tent use, but nothing beats the brightness of a propane or gas lantern. "Flame" lanterns should never be used in a tent!
Flashlight: Make sure you have fresh, working batteries along with spare bulbs. Handheld units are perfect, while head worn units are great when you're hands are full and they aren't that expensive.
Firewood: Make sure it's dry. Don't forget kindling, and again Matches.
FOOD ITEMSIf you do the "Costco/Sam's Club" trip, also get some GLAD 1 gallon ZipLock bags and break everything down into meal size portions to make your life easier.
I'll list the perishable (refridgeration needed) items first.
Meats: You know what you like, frozen is better as it will keep longer and defrost during the trip. Again meal size portions are better. Precooked items like Sausages are great because they're easy to prepare.
Veggies: Plan your meals accordingly. Some only take fruits, while others bring both. If possible, preslice and freeze. It makes meal prep a whole lot easier.
Cerials/Breads: I try and stay away from typical sliced breads and instead opt for Sub Sandwich type of breads. They seem to survive the rigors of off road travel much better. For breakfast, I stick to Flavored instant oatmeal. This way, I only need water, and not any milk.
Dairy: Cheeses are fine, but take as much as you'll need. That 24 slice pack is probably more than you'll need. Pre-grate/slice in advance if possible.
Liquids: About the most important fluid you'll need is water. Bring a couple of gallons for each person, per day. This give you wash water, as well as drinking water. Use collapsable containers if you can.
I'm sure there's more, but that's all I can remember for now.
