4wd

Most camping websites do the 'how to choose tent' routine. So I was thinking I'd do the same. But then I hit myself on the head with a hammer and it came to me - trying to give advice on how to choose the one perfect tent is like trying to give advice on 'how to choose the best noodle' at the local Chinsess takeway - it simply can't be done.

In the real world, it doesn't matter what sort of tent you take with you. Sometimes it will be ok but other times you'll need a different tent. And then next time a different tent again would be better. So if you buy just one you'll always be living in a compromised camping experience.

At mycampgear.com compromise is not an option.

The solution?

Buy more tents.

Don't over think it. Just go into a camping shop, surf ebay or go to a garage sale and just buy the first one that you go 'yeah, I like that.'

And then do the same next month. And the next month...

mycampgear.com - saving the world, one tent at a time.

We love this book - 2500 free or cheap campsites in Australia - and it's always in the car, but a website that looks handy is aussiecamping.

There are more campsites listed from Queensland than other states at the moment but it is user-driven so that might change over time. It may be a useful tool to plan your next trip. Note that their forum seems to have been spammed recently. I suppose they'll tidy it up soon.

A VERY handy edition to our car-based camping setup is a small shelf or table on the rear door of our old Pajero. Of course it depends on what style of rear door you might have but for a side-opening door it works well. Check out the video. Very simple to make and cost nothing more than what I found in the shed and an hour of my time.

I found this set up the other day. The text reads...

A perfect fit for SUVs, minivans, and similar vehicles with rear liftgates or hatchbacks, the DAC Explorer 2 SUV Tent lets you enjoy camping off the ground. Comfortable and convenient, the Explorer 2 is easy to set up, thanks to bungee cords equipped with plastic coated hooks that attached to your vehicles underframe. There’s no worry of bugs getting in and ruining your sleep – this DAC SUV tent’s shock cord ensures it is snug against the vehicle, and it also has a no-see-un insect screen. Other features include fold up outer door panels, two way zippers and carrying bag. Strap one to your SUV for $109.

I've never seen anything like this available in Australia. Might be a market opportunity for someone?