76 years- had a terrible back but had surgery and now would like to camp again with my dog. Never camped alone -(lost my husband 5 years ago) but Wendy us such an inspiration.
I second this idea, if you’re interested in creating such a video. I have food allergies and a limited budget. So being able to custom create dehydrated meals would be helpful.
Yes I agree! I would love to see your ideas for dehydrated meals. Thank you so much for your videos. It is so enjoyable seeing someone who has been camping and hiking for decades. I have just started kayaking in my 50’s and I love camping. It is encouraging to see that you still enjoy these hobbies 😊
Please do a video on dehydrating food for camping. Hope to get out in the woods again someday and am dehydrating foods for that day. Your videos are an inspiration. Will be 89 in July and in good enough shape to paddle a canoe if I had one. Since I no longer drive I have to depend on the kindness of others to get me to a campground. May you have many more years of wonderful adventures.
It's wonderful to see a woman of my own age range successfully getting out in nature and sharing her skills and wisdom. Always been a city girl but I and a friend plan to get out and enjoy the plentiful bush areas where we live in Port Alberni. We are mature widows who treasure our comforts but also need the serenity that comes from being in nature. Thank you for sharing.
awesome. You have so much beauty around you there. just taking some day trips and cooking yourself some lunch along a river or lake really adds to the joy of it all. plus, in the car you can take along a comfy chair. !!!
Thank you Wendy. Yes please share with us those 2 topics. You are a gentle soul. i am 74, obese and trying like mad to get in better physical shape. I want to go hammock camping. I camped as a girl scout and loved it. God bless you dear lady@
thanks so much Dianna- I just went hammock camping and will have a video up before too long- just got back- I admire you ambition to improve your health- It is a life long journey . Wishing you success.
A simple way to keep the canister fuel warm is to stick a hand warmer with an adhesive backing to the concave bottom. Works like a charm. (Or stick a regular hand warmer packet on with a bit of tape.)
I went camping for the first time last month and I’m looking forward to going more. Your videos have helped inspire me to not be afraid to go and get out there solo, as a woman. Thanks for sharing your knowledge 💕
I so appreciate your straight-forward recommendations on cooking gear. It's so easy to go down the high-tech and expensive route for camping gear, which makes me appreciate your recommendations even more! Thanks.
Gosh Wendy, your videos are so beautifully composed and edited. I'd love to hear about the clothes/hiking boots, especially some of the quick drying hiking pants. Your favorite jackets per season. More than a few videos? You are so fabulous, thank you for great information! Carry on!
I’d love to hear more about your gear! I liked your idea of folding the cookie sheet for a wind screen, and I’m planning to give that a try. I’m in my 50s and getting back into camping (solo car camping) after 27 years. I’ve been enjoying your videos as I’ve been dipping my toes in and learning how to do this again. Thank you!
Good info. If I may... Coleman makes Extreme Gas for cold temps down to -27C. I also use foldable stand for the gas canister. Very useful, particularly after I lost a couple of my meals when stove flipped on uneven ground. I used titanium pots before, but now switched to regular aluminum pots from hardware store - weight is the same, heat distribution feels better, cost less than 30% of titanium. Nowadays I actually prefer 600 ml camping aluminum kettle of the same weight. Easier to use than pot. Finally I like to use food thermos 500ml to cook dehydrated meals, pasta, noodles, oatmeal and such. Saves a lot of gas and keeps food hot. Be well.
Excellent video, and I've always been a believer that simplicity is best. Your ideas are spot on, and good for anyone watching who may see an array of 'must haves' at the local sporting goods store. Well done! Looking forward to the next one. 🌲🌲
Another great video and I appreciate the way you approach your gear purchases. I disperse camp and get there via my canoe or truck so weight is not an issue. I’ve used a Kelly Kettle for several years and absolutely love it. It heats with twigs, and I can have my morning coffee in about 5 mins with lots of extra hot water left over for washing, cleaning, whatever. It comes with a complete mess kit that all tucks back inside the kettle, and then back into its bag. I’d love to see your menu plans, how you pack your food, what you dehydrate, and what kind of cooler you use. You always seem to eat quite well! Thanks Wendy- I just love your channel!
Oh yeah, cooking on the fire is definitely most campy! Every fire is different and always appreciated. But where the stove really shines is for that first morning coffee.🍵😊 Love the cookie sheet wind screen and nifty cozy for rehydrating meals too. My first stove was a pre-Whisperlite MSR bought in about 1975. I keep it as a relic of my formative years as a camper. My spouse isn't that interested in camping these days so I'm doing more on my own and enjoying being able to dial it into my own style. I really appreciate the relaxed & friendly way you're sharing your approach to enjoying the outdoors. Your style resonates with me.
Enjoy your videos, it was great to see how you chose your gear! Love the ingenious creativity for a windscreen and warming pouch for rehydrating/keeping food warm. It’d be great to see more similar videos, including lessons learned (i.e., trial and error stuff). I think the years of experience give you expertise. Safe travels!
Interesting video Wendy with some good sharing & tips - almost makes me tempted, but think I will stay sharing your adventures from the comfort of my home, and remember of those days when I could participate in such activities. Keep sharing your adventures and 'living life fully!'
Hi Wendy, thanks for the video. I like the ideas for the wind screen and foil pack warmer. I'll be trying these out. Very inexpensive and light. Love what you are doing!
Another great video Wendy. Trial, error and experimenting. Your cooking system is the same as I pack on my motorcycle. Thanks for sharing your ideas and experiences. You're right, not everything has to come from retail camping stores.
Hi Wendy. A nice and informative video. It got me to thinking about which stove to look for. Since I won't be using a canoe, and if I hike just a little, I'll definitely look into a smaller one than I was considering. I love your little pot with a lid but I might want one with a knob so it would be easier for me to lift off. Ill look for a small spatula that folds. I like your cup with a closeable lid. I love a nice wood fire and I sometimes collect wood that I wish to use on a project so it is very dry. I would vote yes on your 2 other ideas for videos. Thanks from Central Oklahoma
Thnx Wendy I'm kinda old school, l use a usgi canteen cup & stove which will burn twigs or l can use an alcohol stove. I'll 65 on my next b-day & hope to get out even more. ✌️🖖🇨🇦
Yes please Wendy. More on camping gear videos. I got a couple of good homemade suggestions out of that video. Will put them to use after i make them up. Less is best as they say and you kitchen certainly is very compact. Look forward to the next one. 🏕🏕
Wendy, you never disappoint! This was a great video, maybe because I have so many of the same items. You have such great information for women who might not know where to start. I have that first stove that I purchased many years ago. You keep doing what your doing. We love it!
new subscriber here , have to say I'm hooked on your videos ..i'm pushing 70 and thought i was over the hill to be able to camp or do anything outdoors ..you proved me wrong. Thank you for a great channel
Wendy, Thank You so much for sharing your tips and Yes Please to sharing more videos like this. My bf and I are looking into maybe doing a small hike on the Appalachian Trail and these tips are very helpful even for a couple of overnights. Your experience and knowledge is very valuable
Thank you so much for the tip on the windscreen! I've been eyeing an aluminum casserole dish gathering dust in my kitchen, and now it has new life, haha!
👍👍👍 .. Great Advice 😊. MSR Whisperlite is a very good Stove ..35 years 👍. I have an Optimus 8R 'Hunter' White Gas Stove which I purchased new in the early 80's and which I still use regularly. +40 years and going strong 😊. Another 'old timer' accompanying it, is my 'Camping Gaz Bluet 206' Gas Cooker. This, I bought in the mid-70's and have never felt the need to 'upgrade' to more modern Burners. Yes, the Gas Cartridges are non-movable until empty but then, as a 'Boomer' (YOB 1950), we grew up not letting 'minor inconveniences' get to us 😏. And .. I can still get the '206' Gas Cartridges at my local Grocery Store and cheaper per gram gas than the more modern 'screw on / off Cartridges. Wood / White Gas / Gas / Alcohol-Based Liquid and Gel Burners (store-bought and home-made) form part of my collection and I love and use them all .. each has it's time and place. A good share .. thanks. I'm sure that many will benefit from this post and others. Take care ..
Many thanks Thomas- They do all have their place. I love that you still have your "old" equipment- I bet you and I share a strong belief in keeping your equipment in good working condition and keep it well stored. I love my gear.
Some great tips for cooking tools and comparing different stoves. I've usually either relied on others who provide their stoves, or I cook over the campfire. Otherwise, it's cold sandwiches for me. I've mostly car camped when i was younger, so I had a large tupperware container for my kitchen items, which I kept in my car trunk. I'm 70 years young and hope to camp again someday. I'd like to know about how you deal with balance issues, as I recall you having a fall just before a hike with your friend. Trekking poles, good shoes with traction, being mindful of trip hazards on the trail (tree roots, ice, rocks, etc.). You might address this in one of your episodes for the over 65 crowd. Thanks Wendy!
Hi Jenny- I do use trekking poles and really find them helpful plus shoes with a good grippy sole. My biggest issue is gazing around-- that's when I hit a trip hazard like a root. my own fault. things so much for your question and comments
Thanks, Wendy. I have done very little tiny bits of camping. Mostly, I'm learning how to van camp, and spend extended times in my van. A lot of the info you share helps with what I'm learning. Plus, you inspire me to think of other things that would be fun to do in the great outdoors. yes, sleep system would be especially interesting to me.
When solo camping, I bring a small stove with a line that can hook up to a small propane or butane bottle, and a collapsible twig stove as a backup. When I camp with my husband, we bring a 2-burner Coleman stove. He likes to cook more complex meals when camping, not to mention gourmet coffee. 😂. Either way, we have managed to keep our largest kitchen kit confined to a 1’ square milk crate. Our favorite cooking surface is either a cast iron or carbon steel skillet, a pot large enough for a typical can of food, and a Stanley pot (the one that comes with 2 cups). We ended up getting collapsible dog bowls rather than standard bowls.
Very nice cook kit! Like you I have tried different stoves and different fuel and my favorite always seems to lead me too the fuel canister. For camping, hiking, or car travel day trips I always pack a small cook kit. I do often bring the smaller size canister fuel. For me everything revoles around weight and size. I must go as small as possible on gear. I am 59 now and my back is not great, and has never been the best really. I like the flexibility to be able to make a hot drink or a little meal anytime. So I have the Toaks 750ml with bail. A small collapsible bowl, just the Walmart brand. The tiny BRS stove probably half the size of MSR. I have a small wind screen and a small titatium grill top. (Big enough to cook one burger). Some allumin foil. Like you, a small container of olive oil. I pack a small container of butter flakes and some spice mixes i just put in small medication size zip locks. One for teas, one for food. I too pack a Salt and pepper tiny two side travel container, the size of detail floss. Some Dove dish soap in a repurposed eyedrop container. I little square of Scotchbright I cut out to scrub my pan. One mini Bic. One tin of LiveFire brand fire starter. And I keep this in my daypack with a titanium fold up spork also by Toaks, and with that a little fold up serated knife by Victorinox made for food. Love that knife. I store it all in a food cozy and the brand escapes me, but sadly they don't make them anymore anyway. What is unique about it is... it has a piece of material on each side you can slip your hand in. Makes it so easy to hold and eat your dehydrated meals. Occasionally, in cooler temps I bring my MSR Titanium kettle and I really love using a kettle. My canister fuel fits well in that too, it's just not as compact as a pot yet will do everything a pot does. It's nice for when I am boiling water to make several hot drinks, like teas or dehyrated soup to warm up at a camp site for a several day trip. The lid stays on well. I do have a titatium plate and pan which looks like a similar to the fryin pan you have. I switched out my plastic cooking utencils and replaced with small folding stainless, a China brand, for a spatula, a proper soup spoon, a straining spoon and tongs I use often caming when we bring fresh foods. I love a good homemade beef stew or hearty chicken soup especially in the autumn. I prefer fresh food over the dehydrated meals if I can. Sometimes we bring little Cornish game hens and those come out so yummy.
what a wonderful list of ideas and great explanations for your choices. I really appreciate the time you took to compose this. I know you have given me and others some food for thought Thank you very much.
Hey Wendy...you are sooo cool. you are an inspiration for me and I can really say: ham a fan of you. I send you really warm regeards from Vienna/Austria/Europe.....Tanja
hello Tanja- so lovely- I went to visit Vienna a few years back- a beautiful city for sure. Walked along the river and all around the city. terrific - thanks for watching
I love your videos. You give excellent advice and perspectives that are realistic. I follow many backpackers that I enjoy but most of their advice is out of range for me for many reasons. I truly believe you are inspiring many others to get outdoors. I am currently on a 5 week solo camping road trip and people like you help encourage me.
Hey Wendy, I always enjoy your videos! I used to backpack when I was younger here in southern Colorado, for many years. Now that I truck camp I always kept my backpacking skills in mind. Always keeping in mind that things need to be light and I love the items that can be used for more than one use. Bandana can be a bandana, pot holder, washrag, neckshade, etc. Happy Trails, look forward to your next video. Stephen
What a wonderful channel! I just caught your episode about disappointing weather but you made the best of it anyway. Excellent! I saw your dry meal that you rehydrate. Can you do a video on some ideas and how to's? What was in your meal bag besides pasta? Wendy, you are such an inspiration to me. I watched your video on loading a canoe and wowza!! I'm 73 and I recently sold my 2 kayaks because I just couldn't figure out how to load and unload it on my SUV roof. I'm thinking about getting another kayak to try out. I'm really excited again to try! And all because of you! ❤
One piece of advice- buy a light one!! It really helps and makes so much difference. Your suv is likely higher than my little Mazda but there again you are likely taller than me !! 😂
very interesting and informative video. Have used various bits of kit over the years but as you say, there's so much to choose from these days that making the right choice can be a challenge. I'm a big fan of Trangia cook systems but love the gear produced by Firebox Stove and am starting to build quite of collection of their gear. The Firebox Nano is my current favourite to use together with their new Boxpot for cooking in. Formidable combination, very compact, versatile and easy to fit in my pack. ATVB from sunny Malaysia. New subscriber to your channel btw
Your cook kits are so similar to my own. I have the Solo,Stove Lite and the Titan, both for Bio fuels and with alcohol burners. For Canister stoves I use the Optimus HE Weekender cook set, like the Pocket Rocket it folds very small. Your windscreen... I used a hold punch and placed 3 holes at the bottom ( 1 hole near each end and 1 in the center). Take 3 small stainless steel tent pegs and secure it down with them. No more windswept windscreen during wind gusts! For rain day cooking nothing beats the Trangia 25T or 27T full-on Stormcooker Cook Sets for use with alcohol or gas burners... a great option for Kayaking. I always carry 2 different cook stove types if one grows legs or fails to be suitable for the current weather conditions I have my backup reserve at my reach.
@@wendyoutdoors2230 I'm so pleased that my little tip helps your camping experience. You have provided so many wonderful 👏 💖 suggestions to all of us so I wanted to help in a small way to PASS IT FORWARD.
I recently got the GSI Glacier camp stove; it's simple and inexpensive. Also have an MSR Windpro, which connects to the isobutane fuel canister with a hose. It's been a great stove, but it doesn't sit solidly. I just got a Pinnacle Dualist pot. Haven't used it outdoors yet (just tested it at home), and I love it. I agree about using just a bowel. I have a UCO dish which is a bowel with a flat bottom. It's great. I have the same skillet you have. For car camping, I'm not as concerned about the lightest weight; however, I do care about keeping things simple and fairly compact. so I favor backpacking gear. That's a great windscreen idea. I will probably try that. Thanks for the video. I love camping and camping gear. I just spent a long time investigating, trying, and finally settling on a new tent. (No one makes exactly what I'd like.)
Hi Marilyn- Maybe could try designing the tent you envision. You may have a great idea. I agree that simple is better even when car camping. Just makes sense to me plus I don't have to buy more gear. I will have a look at the stove you like. thanks
I would love to hear more about your gear picks! I’m heading up your way soon for a little backpacking adventure in Garibaldi. I’d love to know what your favorite cold weather gear is :)
You are great. So many other camping vids concentrate too much on the latest gear, you just say what you can do. I am 65, and still get out-and-about, so it is good to see you doing likewise.
thanks dear lady for sharing your great ideas ... take good care and enjoy your summer as I head into winter in Perth Australia. Thankfully it really isn't too bad, never ever snow !!!!
This was a wonderful video. Very helpful information and suggestions. The future videos you’re planning sound good too. I’m really enjoying your channel!
Very informative and inspiring as I haven't tried any solo camping and would like to look into the gears. Love to watch your video and enjoy your smile and presentation :)
Just back from 3 nights camping on the English/Welsh border. Like most folk over the years I've tried the different stoves and the Butane ones tend to get left behind now. I have a folding wood stove which can also be used with a Trangia alcohol burner. I like the twig stove and Trangia methods of cooking (that's a questionable word with some of the stuff that I produce!! ) 😊 Alcohol and wood stoves slow the pace of life down, and burn almost silently which suits me fine.👍
Hello John- thanks for sharing your experience with us. I agree that wood and alcohol are great and I do use mine too. In fact I just ordered a small folding Trangia holder for the alcohol stove. Will see how that goes.
That's a great outdoor cook kit for hiking/backpacking Wendy, and super light too. I can only remember cooking two ways when camping during my younger years - camp fire and a Coleman cook stove with a wind screen around it. Mom fed 5 of us and we camped a lot with just an old-fashioned canvas tent for many years. If you're not hiking/backpacking, a cast iron skillet and dutch oven w/lid are necessary for camp fire cooking, plus long-handled steel spatula and big spoon for stirring safely. I have a large dog so my camping is typically at national forests or Army COE near water, and my "cook kit" is substantially larger than my Mom's was. :)
Sounds like I would like to eat at your place!!! I grew up with the Coleman stove too. In fact we have one at the little cabin- newer version. They still work well.
Thank you, Wendy, this is a great video! I like hearing about your upcoming projects, my camp kitchen looks a lot like yours. I cook on a butane stove or over a campfire. Lots of fun 🩷
Wendy, I'd love to see any more of those videos! I do have some of those collapsible bowls (and cups) and think you'd love one and prob would carry it even backpacking as they are so light and pack down so much better. Also, in my opinion, an expert is someone who has done a lot of it, so I'd say you are one. (LOL, even experts can still be learning.)
Great video. I've used everything, also, over the years, and my main comment would be to consider a base plate for the fuel canister - the pocket rocket makes a tall stove, relative to width, and when you put a full pot on top of that, it is quite a potential spill hazard. I think Coleman sold them for their propane canisters, and maybe others sell them now, also. I'm in my 70's as well, and so appreciate your wonderful photography and editing, along with the adventures themselves. Thanks so much!
I really appreciated this, Wendy! Most comprehensive practical cook kit video I've seen! I've been camping for along time and thought I'd heard it all.... so many tips I'm taking away here, thanks so much!!!
All good advice Wendy I had one of those white gas stoves and don't miss them.The pocket rocket is a good stove I used one made by snow peak that was about the same thing only without the rocket sound .If it was not for coffee I would go cook less on short hikes .
Hello Gary- thanks for sharing your thoughts- I would like my stove to be quieter too. I find the alcohol stove such a great little stove for those day hikes. I have ordered a small holder for the container so it will be even lighter to carry- will see how that goes once I get it.
@@wendyoutdoors2230 I'm not worried about you but people need to be careful with alcohol stoves I was about a day behind a young guy on the PCT and he knocked his over and started a grass fire the forest service closed the trail and put it out and fined him,sent him the bill and banned him from the forest for five years and he is the reason you need a fire permit in Cali if you camp. I also saw a guy lite up a picnic table full of other peoples gear on the AT,he became a solo hiker the next day.People just need to be careful as with all fire.
The windscreen, from my experience you are correct. Bought one years ago when I didn't know any better and have been using the ones i made ever since. You can tailor them to your exact need. The only item I use that is different enough from yours to be worth mentioning is a large Wildo Foldacup. Large enough to be used as a cup or bowl, compact, durable and light though maybe not big enough if you are cooking something more elaborate. The Wildo stuff is generally good but the Large cup is the item that gets the most use.
thanks so much for the tip. I found them on amazon- may order one. as for the wind screen, a viewer told me she puts 2 or 3 holes along the bottom and uses thin tent stakes to hold it to the ground. Sounded like such a good idea I adjusted mine today. Tried out in the back yard, works really well.
Hi, I used to camp alone. I am 70 years young. You are an inspiration to me. Contemplating starting back up to camp again. Thank you 👍
Do it , anyway you can 👍
Wendy is an insperation & wealth of campin knowledge.
✌️🖖🇨🇦
76 years- had a terrible back but had surgery and now would like to camp again with my dog. Never camped alone -(lost my husband 5 years ago) but Wendy us such an inspiration.
Hello Susan-I hope it works for you. You likely need a good bed and chair to take along. Maybe try car camping where you can bring what you need. 🤞
thank you very much
hello Pamela- I hope you can do it. never know til we try- at least if it doesn't work out we know we gave it a go. Wishing you success.
Please share a video on your homemade dehydrated meals. Thanks.
I second this idea, if you’re interested in creating such a video. I have food allergies and a limited budget. So being able to custom create dehydrated meals would be helpful.
Yes I agree! I would love to see your ideas for dehydrated meals. Thank you so much for your videos. It is so enjoyable seeing someone who has been camping and hiking for decades. I have just started kayaking in my 50’s and I love camping. It is encouraging to see that you still enjoy these hobbies 😊
thanks for the idea. I will put some thought into that.
Please do a video on dehydrating food for camping. Hope to get out in the woods again someday and am dehydrating foods for that day.
Your videos are an inspiration. Will be 89 in July and in good enough shape to paddle a canoe if I had one. Since I no longer drive I have to depend on the kindness of others to get me to a campground.
May you have many more years of wonderful adventures.
Cookie sheet is a great idea for a wind screen!
thanks Sue- very inexpensive
Love your engineering!
It's wonderful to see a woman of my own age range successfully getting out in nature and sharing her skills and wisdom. Always been a city girl but I and a friend plan to get out and enjoy the plentiful bush areas where we live in Port Alberni. We are mature widows who treasure our comforts but also need the serenity that comes from being in nature. Thank you for sharing.
awesome. You have so much beauty around you there. just taking some day trips and cooking yourself some lunch along a river or lake really adds to the joy of it all. plus, in the car you can take along a comfy chair. !!!
Thank you Wendy. Yes please share with us those 2 topics. You are a gentle soul. i am 74, obese and trying like mad to get in better physical shape. I want to go hammock camping. I camped as a girl scout and loved it. God bless you dear lady@
thanks so much Dianna- I just went hammock camping and will have a video up before too long- just got back- I admire you ambition to improve your health- It is a life long journey . Wishing you success.
A simple way to keep the canister fuel warm is to stick a hand warmer with an adhesive backing to the concave bottom. Works like a charm.
(Or stick a regular hand warmer packet on with a bit of tape.)
awesome tip!!! thanks so much
I use the Trangia alcohol stove. I like it because it’s so quiet. It may take a little longer to boil but whose in a hurry. Love your videos.
you are right about that! that is how camping should be, relaxed! thanks Linda
I love this channel. I finally found someone I can identify with
wonderful Carolyn- I think there are lots of women out there doing this but they don't generally post on You Tube- Maybe we can start a trend!!!
I went camping for the first time last month and I’m looking forward to going more. Your videos have helped inspire me to not be afraid to go and get out there solo, as a woman. Thanks for sharing your knowledge 💕
You are most welcome- I hope you have a good time . I have found that the more I do this the more relaxed I am. happy camping !
I so appreciate your straight-forward recommendations on cooking gear. It's so easy to go down the high-tech and expensive route for camping gear, which makes me appreciate your recommendations even more! Thanks.
You are very welcome- Glad it was somewhat helpful
I was hoping you’d make videos like this!! Yes, I’m interested in your other camp gear, especially the sleep setup. :) Have a great day Wendy! 🌲💚
thanks- will do!
Gosh Wendy, your videos are so beautifully composed and edited. I'd love to hear about the clothes/hiking boots, especially some of the quick drying hiking pants. Your favorite jackets per season. More than a few videos? You are so fabulous, thank you for great information! Carry on!
thanks Marie- I am thinking about a gear video for my upcoming hiking trips.
Great information!! Thank you! I especially like the insulated pouch for the baggie. So smart!
thanks - I find it works very well. Not sure where I first saw it done. super simple to make
I’d love to hear more about your gear! I liked your idea of folding the cookie sheet for a wind screen, and I’m planning to give that a try. I’m in my 50s and getting back into camping (solo car camping) after 27 years. I’ve been enjoying your videos as I’ve been dipping my toes in and learning how to do this again. Thank you!
wonderful- I hope you have lots of fun. that s the goal- good luck with your adventures.
I've just started solo camping at 61 and this was a very informative video. I love the cookie sheet wind screen & will be doing that!
great to hear about another "late bloomer" in the solo camping group. Never too old to try something new. thanks for watching.
Good info. If I may... Coleman makes Extreme Gas for cold temps down to -27C. I also use foldable stand for the gas canister. Very useful, particularly after I lost a couple of my meals when stove flipped on uneven ground. I used titanium pots before, but now switched to regular aluminum pots from hardware store - weight is the same, heat distribution feels better, cost less than 30% of titanium. Nowadays I actually prefer 600 ml camping aluminum kettle of the same weight. Easier to use than pot. Finally I like to use food thermos 500ml to cook dehydrated meals, pasta, noodles, oatmeal and such. Saves a lot of gas and keeps food hot. Be well.
thanks a lot Vlad- You have some very good information there. I really value your input.
I love that you making camping so approachable and share your thought process on why and how you picked your set-up!
Glad you enjoy it and thank you
Yes, please more videos of 🏕 equipment.thank you for sharing
will do! thanks
Thanks so much - lots of useful information! Looking forward to the shelter and sleep system videos!
thanks - I will get to them over the summer.
Excellent video, and I've always been a believer that simplicity is best. Your ideas are spot on, and good for anyone watching who may see an array of 'must haves' at the local sporting goods store. Well done! Looking forward to the next one. 🌲🌲
Thank you very much!
This was so helpful. I love how compact everything is.
thanks Shelly
Another great video and I appreciate the way you approach your gear purchases. I disperse camp and get there via my canoe or truck so weight is not an issue. I’ve used a Kelly Kettle for several years and absolutely love it. It heats with twigs, and I can have my morning coffee in about 5 mins with lots of extra hot water left over for washing, cleaning, whatever. It comes with a complete mess kit that all tucks back inside the kettle, and then back into its bag. I’d love to see your menu plans, how you pack your food, what you dehydrate, and what kind of cooler you use. You always seem to eat quite well! Thanks Wendy- I just love your channel!
I will work on that- thanks so much for sharing your method. You are the second one to day to talk about the Kelly Kettle.
Oh yeah, cooking on the fire is definitely most campy! Every fire is different and always appreciated. But where the stove really shines is for that first morning coffee.🍵😊 Love the cookie sheet wind screen and nifty cozy for rehydrating meals too. My first stove was a pre-Whisperlite MSR bought in about 1975. I keep it as a relic of my formative years as a camper. My spouse isn't that interested in camping these days so I'm doing more on my own and enjoying being able to dial it into my own style. I really appreciate the relaxed & friendly way you're sharing your approach to enjoying the outdoors. Your style resonates with me.
thank you- so glad you too are able to keep doing what you love- it enriches my life in countless ways-
This was so helpful! I'd love more videos about your gear or some recipes/food ideas for bringing along on the camping trips! :)
thanks -will do something on food
Enjoy your videos, it was great to see how you chose your gear! Love the ingenious creativity for a windscreen and warming pouch for rehydrating/keeping food warm.
It’d be great to see more similar videos, including lessons learned (i.e., trial and error stuff).
I think the years of experience give you expertise. Safe travels!
thanks a lot Lindsay
This is all great information and much appreciated. Love your homemade wind shelter and cozy!
thanks you-
Interesting video Wendy with some good sharing & tips - almost makes me tempted, but think I will stay sharing your adventures from the comfort of my home, and remember of those days when I could participate in such activities. Keep sharing your adventures and 'living life fully!'
thanks for your continued to support. nothing wrong with arm chair adventures!!! ❤️
Hi Wendy, thanks for the video. I like the ideas for the wind screen and foil pack warmer. I'll be trying these out. Very inexpensive and light. Love what you are doing!
thank you very much. glad it was helpful
Another great video Wendy. Trial, error and experimenting. Your cooking system is the same as I pack on my motorcycle. Thanks for sharing your ideas and experiences. You're right, not everything has to come from retail camping stores.
thanks Glenn- enjoy your motorcycle tours.
Hi Wendy. A nice and informative video. It got me to thinking about which stove to look for. Since I won't be using a canoe, and if I hike just a little, I'll definitely look into a smaller one than I was considering. I love your little pot with a lid but I might want one with a knob so it would be easier for me to lift off. Ill look for a small spatula that folds. I like your cup with a closeable lid. I love a nice wood fire and I sometimes collect wood that I wish to use on a project so it is very dry. I would vote yes on your 2 other ideas for videos. Thanks from Central Oklahoma
thanks Janet- will do!
Thnx Wendy
I'm kinda old school, l use a usgi canteen cup & stove which will burn twigs or l can use an alcohol stove.
I'll 65 on my next b-day & hope to get out even more.
✌️🖖🇨🇦
what ever works is great. I have that little solo stove which does both and I really like it. Hope you get out as you plan-
Get it girl! Such an inspiration! So informative and perfect set up! Love the painting hanging on your wall!
thank you. the original was done by a young lady I know. I have a copy but still love it.
Yes please Wendy. More on camping gear videos. I got a couple of good homemade suggestions out of that video. Will put them to use after i make them up. Less is best as they say and you kitchen certainly is very compact. Look forward to the next one. 🏕🏕
thanks Carol-
Wendy, you never disappoint! This was a great video, maybe because I have so many of the same items. You have such great information for women who might not know where to start. I have that first stove that I purchased many years ago. You keep doing what your doing. We love it!
thanks so much Heidi
Thank you for your help and information. It was very informative on Cook stove.
😂
Nice video. Thanks for sharing. 👍87
thank you
I really enjoyed this video. Thank you!
thanks so much for watching
Thank you, Wendy, I enjoyed your video ! I find cook systems are as unique as the hiker😊 but are always interesting. 😊
yes, we make them to suit ourselves and our environments which can change over time and season- thanks for watching .
new subscriber here , have to say I'm hooked on your videos ..i'm pushing 70 and thought i was over the hill to be able to camp or do anything outdoors ..you proved me wrong. Thank you for a great channel
Welcome aboard! Give it a try and start simple. see how you feel. I wish you success.
Thank you for some very clever tips❤You are an inspiration!
Many thanks
Wendy, Thank You so much for sharing your tips and Yes Please to sharing more videos like this. My bf and I are looking into maybe doing a small hike on the Appalachian Trail and these tips are very helpful even for a couple of overnights. Your experience and knowledge is very valuable
thanks very much- happy to hear these tips can be helpful
I hope you continue to share your tips with us .!
will do !
Thank you so much for the tip on the windscreen! I've been eyeing an aluminum casserole dish gathering dust in my kitchen, and now it has new life, haha!
great!!!
Great video, I have no suggestions, since you have perfected a system, I intend to use your system, thank you.
thank you- that is a lovely compliment
Thanks so much Wendy. As usual I always find so many new and good ideas just by watching your videos. Looking forward for the next one
thanks very much Barry-
👍👍👍 .. Great Advice 😊.
MSR Whisperlite is a very good Stove ..35 years 👍. I have an Optimus 8R 'Hunter' White Gas Stove which I purchased new in the early 80's and which I still use regularly. +40 years and going strong 😊.
Another 'old timer' accompanying it, is my 'Camping Gaz Bluet 206' Gas Cooker. This, I bought in the mid-70's and have never felt the need to 'upgrade' to more modern Burners.
Yes, the Gas Cartridges are non-movable until empty but then, as a 'Boomer' (YOB 1950), we grew up not letting 'minor inconveniences' get to us 😏. And .. I can still get the '206' Gas Cartridges at my local Grocery Store and cheaper per gram gas than the more modern 'screw on / off Cartridges.
Wood / White Gas / Gas / Alcohol-Based Liquid and Gel Burners (store-bought and home-made) form part of my collection and I love and use them all .. each has it's time and place.
A good share .. thanks. I'm sure that many will benefit from this post and others. Take care ..
Many thanks Thomas- They do all have their place. I love that you still have your "old" equipment- I bet you and I share a strong belief in keeping your equipment in good working condition and keep it well stored. I love my gear.
Nice video, Wendy. Thanks for all the great tips! 🏕️💕
Suzanne- thank you for you comment
Thank you for the informational video, I'm a fan from the Philippines
welcome Christian. I have some family members who visited there a few years ago- they loved it.
Great video and I look forward to your next videos😊
Belinda- thanks very much
Some great tips for cooking tools and comparing different stoves. I've usually either relied on others who provide their stoves, or I cook over the campfire. Otherwise, it's cold sandwiches for me. I've mostly car camped when i was younger, so I had a large tupperware container for my kitchen items, which I kept in my car trunk. I'm 70 years young and hope to camp again someday. I'd like to know about how you deal with balance issues, as I recall you having a fall just before a hike with your friend. Trekking poles, good shoes with traction, being mindful of trip hazards on the trail (tree roots, ice, rocks, etc.). You might address this in one of your episodes for the over 65 crowd. Thanks Wendy!
Hi Jenny- I do use trekking poles and really find them helpful plus shoes with a good grippy sole. My biggest issue is gazing around-- that's when I hit a trip hazard like a root. my own fault. things so much for your question and comments
@@wendyoutdoors2230 The same thing happens to me if I"m not mindful of where I'm walking. Have a great rest of your week.
Using an aluminum cookie sheet as a wind break is a great idea. Will implement that in my cooking kit! 👍
easy and effective- 👍
Thanks, Wendy. I have done very little tiny bits of camping. Mostly, I'm learning how to van camp, and spend extended times in my van. A lot of the info you share helps with what I'm learning. Plus, you inspire me to think of other things that would be fun to do in the great outdoors. yes, sleep system would be especially interesting to me.
thanks very much for your input- I am working on that .
When solo camping, I bring a small stove with a line that can hook up to a small propane or butane bottle, and a collapsible twig stove as a backup. When I camp with my husband, we bring a 2-burner Coleman stove. He likes to cook more complex meals when camping, not to mention gourmet coffee. 😂. Either way, we have managed to keep our largest kitchen kit confined to a 1’ square milk crate. Our favorite cooking surface is either a cast iron or carbon steel skillet, a pot large enough for a typical can of food, and a Stanley pot (the one that comes with 2 cups). We ended up getting collapsible dog bowls rather than standard bowls.
the dog bowl tip is gear. Sounds like you have a great kit put together. thanks so much
This was great!! Nice set up! Like someone else commented - some of your recipes would be appreciated
Thanks!!
Ok Jim- I will talk food on another video.
im here for more! yes please
👍
Wow Wendy!! I'm watching this second time and somehow missed the first time around the food cozy made out of reflectix and velcro!!! BRILLIANT!
thank you, I believe I first saw something similar on another You Tube channel.
Very helpful especially using the tin foil.
thanks, and inexpensive too1
A campfire is my first choice, but you've given so many good options!
Campfires for me as well- thanks for watching and commenting
Very nice and interesting video ❤️ 👍
I subscribed sometimes ago, but watched many video the past week
Your channel is relaxing and interesting
thank you very much.
And yes yes yes! Please make the 2 videos on shelter and sleep system, looking forward to that!!
working on it
Very nice cook kit! Like you I have tried different stoves and different fuel and my favorite always seems to lead me too the fuel canister.
For camping, hiking, or car travel day trips I always pack a small cook kit.
I do often bring the smaller size canister fuel. For me everything revoles around weight and size. I must go as small as possible on gear. I am 59 now and my back is not great, and has never been the best really. I like the flexibility to be able to make a hot drink or a little meal anytime.
So I have the Toaks 750ml with bail. A small collapsible bowl, just the Walmart brand. The tiny BRS stove probably half the size of MSR. I have a small wind screen and a small titatium grill top. (Big enough to cook one burger). Some allumin foil. Like you, a small container of olive oil. I pack a small container of butter flakes and some spice mixes i just put in small medication size zip locks. One for teas, one for food. I too pack a Salt and pepper tiny two side travel container, the size of detail floss. Some Dove dish soap in a repurposed eyedrop container. I little square of Scotchbright I cut out to scrub my pan. One mini Bic. One tin of LiveFire brand fire starter. And I keep this in my daypack with a titanium fold up spork also by Toaks, and with that a little fold up serated knife by Victorinox made for food. Love that knife. I store it all in a food cozy and the brand escapes me, but sadly they don't make them anymore anyway. What is unique about it is... it has a piece of material on each side you can slip your hand in. Makes it so easy to hold and eat your dehydrated meals.
Occasionally, in cooler temps I bring my MSR Titanium kettle and I really love using a kettle. My canister fuel fits well in that too, it's just not as compact as a pot yet will do everything a pot does. It's nice for when I am boiling water to make several hot drinks, like teas or dehyrated soup to warm up at a camp site for a several day trip. The lid stays on well. I do have a titatium plate and pan which looks like a similar to the fryin pan you have. I switched out my plastic cooking utencils and replaced with small folding stainless, a China brand, for a spatula, a proper soup spoon, a straining spoon and tongs I use often caming when we bring fresh foods. I love a good homemade beef stew or hearty chicken soup especially in the autumn. I prefer fresh food over the dehydrated meals if I can. Sometimes we bring little Cornish game hens and those come out so yummy.
what a wonderful list of ideas and great explanations for your choices. I really appreciate the time you took to compose this. I know you have given me and others some food for thought Thank you very much.
Wonderful video. I will watch the others you have planned too. Thank you!
great- thanks very much
Hey Wendy...you are sooo cool. you are an inspiration for me and I can really say: ham a fan of you. I send you really warm regeards from Vienna/Austria/Europe.....Tanja
hello Tanja- so lovely- I went to visit Vienna a few years back- a beautiful city for sure. Walked along the river and all around the city. terrific - thanks for watching
I love your videos. You give excellent advice and perspectives that are realistic. I follow many backpackers that I enjoy but most of their advice is out of range for me for many reasons. I truly believe you are inspiring many others to get outdoors. I am currently on a 5 week solo camping road trip and people like you help encourage me.
How fantastic Claire- 5 weeks on the road , out there exploring and seeing so many wonderful sights. I wish you a safe and fun filled adventure.
Hey Wendy, I always enjoy your videos! I used to backpack when I was younger here in southern Colorado, for many years. Now that I truck camp I always kept my backpacking skills in mind. Always keeping in mind that things need to be light and I love the items that can be used for more than one use. Bandana can be a bandana, pot holder, washrag, neckshade, etc. Happy Trails, look forward to your next video. Stephen
thank very much- yes a bandana is a great tip!
What a wonderful channel!
I just caught your episode about disappointing weather but you made the best of it anyway. Excellent!
I saw your dry meal that you rehydrate. Can you do a video on some ideas and how to's? What was in your meal bag besides pasta?
Wendy, you are such an inspiration to me. I watched your video on loading a canoe and wowza!! I'm 73 and I recently sold my 2 kayaks because I just couldn't figure out how to load and unload it on my SUV roof. I'm thinking about getting another kayak to try out. I'm really excited again to try! And all because of you! ❤
One piece of advice- buy a light one!! It really helps and makes so much difference. Your suv is likely higher than my little Mazda but there again you are likely taller than me !! 😂
very interesting and informative video. Have used various bits of kit over the years but as you say, there's so much to choose from these days that making the right choice can be a challenge. I'm a big fan of Trangia cook systems but love the gear produced by Firebox Stove and am starting to build quite of collection of their gear. The Firebox Nano is my current favourite to use together with their new Boxpot for cooking in. Formidable combination, very compact, versatile and easy to fit in my pack. ATVB from sunny Malaysia. New subscriber to your channel btw
thanks for subbing- Wonderful to have some one from Malaysia. I will check out their gear. thanks for the heads up
Just what I wanted!!!! And clothing please! ❤
thanks for the idea- much appreciated
Your cook kits are so similar to my own. I have the Solo,Stove Lite and the Titan, both for Bio fuels and with alcohol burners. For Canister stoves I use the Optimus HE Weekender cook set, like the Pocket Rocket it folds very small. Your windscreen... I used a hold punch and placed 3 holes at the bottom ( 1 hole near each end and 1 in the center). Take 3 small stainless steel tent pegs and secure it down with them. No more windswept windscreen during wind gusts! For rain day cooking nothing beats the Trangia 25T or 27T full-on Stormcooker Cook Sets for use with alcohol or gas burners... a great option for Kayaking. I always carry 2 different cook stove types if one grows legs or fails to be suitable for the current weather conditions I have my backup reserve at my reach.
awesome tips Pamela- love the suggestion re the 3 holes- I will do that. for sure- thanks very much-
@@wendyoutdoors2230 I'm so pleased that my little tip helps your camping experience. You have provided so many wonderful 👏 💖 suggestions to all of us so I wanted to help in a small way to PASS IT FORWARD.
I recently got the GSI Glacier camp stove; it's simple and inexpensive. Also have an MSR Windpro, which connects to the isobutane fuel canister with a hose. It's been a great stove, but it doesn't sit solidly. I just got a Pinnacle Dualist pot. Haven't used it outdoors yet (just tested it at home), and I love it. I agree about using just a bowel. I have a UCO dish which is a bowel with a flat bottom. It's great. I have the same skillet you have. For car camping, I'm not as concerned about the lightest weight; however, I do care about keeping things simple and fairly compact. so I favor backpacking gear. That's a great windscreen idea. I will probably try that. Thanks for the video. I love camping and camping gear. I just spent a long time investigating, trying, and finally settling on a new tent. (No one makes exactly what I'd like.)
Hi Marilyn- Maybe could try designing the tent you envision. You may have a great idea. I agree that simple is better even when car camping. Just makes sense to me plus I don't have to buy more gear. I will have a look at the stove you like. thanks
I would love a lesson on dehydrating camp foods and meals!
Hi Suzanne- Just recently put one up- hope it helps
I would love to hear more about your gear picks! I’m heading up your way soon for a little backpacking adventure in Garibaldi. I’d love to know what your favorite cold weather gear is :)
Will do!
Hi, love your videos. I van RV with my two pups, traveling to visit family and friends. Please keep on, you're an inspiration!
we love our van too! happy travels
You are great. So many other camping vids concentrate too much on the latest gear, you just say what you can do. I am 65, and still get out-and-about, so it is good to see you doing likewise.
Wow, thank you!
thanks dear lady for sharing your great ideas ... take good care and enjoy your summer as I head into winter in Perth Australia. Thankfully it really isn't too bad, never ever snow !!!!
have a great time in Perth- nice and warm!
Loved it. Thank you for all your expertise. Yes more videos please ❤
👍
This was a wonderful video. Very helpful information and suggestions.
The future videos you’re planning sound good too. I’m really enjoying your channel!
thank you Luanne-
So very neat and useful!
thanks Ruth
Keep the video's coming Wendy you are an inspiration !!
many thanks
Very informative and inspiring as I haven't tried any solo camping and would like to look into the gears. Love to watch your video and enjoy your smile and presentation :)
many thanks
Just back from 3 nights camping on the English/Welsh border. Like most folk over the years I've tried the different stoves and the Butane ones tend to get left behind now. I have a folding wood stove which can also be used with a Trangia alcohol burner. I like the twig stove and Trangia methods of cooking (that's a questionable word with some of the stuff that I produce!! ) 😊
Alcohol and wood stoves slow the pace of life down, and burn almost silently which suits me fine.👍
Hello John- thanks for sharing your experience with us. I agree that wood and alcohol are great and I do use mine too. In fact I just ordered a small folding Trangia holder for the alcohol stove. Will see how that goes.
I get wonderful ideas from your videos. I find them very informative and practical. Thanks for sharing!
You are so welcome, glad you find something useful in them.
That's a great outdoor cook kit for hiking/backpacking Wendy, and super light too. I can only remember cooking two ways when camping during my younger years - camp fire and a Coleman cook stove with a wind screen around it. Mom fed 5 of us and we camped a lot with just an old-fashioned canvas tent for many years. If you're not hiking/backpacking, a cast iron skillet and dutch oven w/lid are necessary for camp fire cooking, plus long-handled steel spatula and big spoon for stirring safely. I have a large dog so my camping is typically at national forests or Army COE near water, and my "cook kit" is substantially larger than my Mom's was. :)
Sounds like I would like to eat at your place!!! I grew up with the Coleman stove too. In fact we have one at the little cabin- newer version. They still work well.
I have two Coleman two burner camp stoves I recommend a propane converter. Cabela's or any other outdoor stores sell them.
thanks for the tip
Thank you, Wendy, this is a great video! I like hearing about your upcoming projects, my camp kitchen looks a lot like yours. I cook on a butane stove or over a campfire. Lots of fun 🩷
Thanks Ramona. glad you enjoyed it
Great video! I’ve been trying to get back into camping. Learning from others shortens the learning curve
I can't tell you how much I have learned from others too-
Hi Wendy, I enjoyed this video and would be very interested in seeing one on sleep systems especially for us campers with older bones.
Noted!
Yes to the two videos! Thank you so much for your wonderful channel!
you are most welcome. I am happy you find it useful
Wendy, I'd love to see any more of those videos! I do have some of those collapsible bowls (and cups) and think you'd love one and prob would carry it even backpacking as they are so light and pack down so much better. Also, in my opinion, an expert is someone who has done a lot of it, so I'd say you are one. (LOL, even experts can still be learning.)
thanks Pete- yes, learning goes on and on. I love to try new things and hear about the experiences of others. I will keep a look out for a new bowl!
Great video. I've used everything, also, over the years, and my main comment would be to consider a base plate for the fuel canister - the pocket rocket makes a tall stove, relative to width, and when you put a full pot on top of that, it is quite a potential spill hazard. I think Coleman sold them for their propane canisters, and maybe others sell them now, also. I'm in my 70's as well, and so appreciate your wonderful photography and editing, along with the adventures themselves. Thanks so much!
great tip- thanks so much
I really appreciated this, Wendy! Most comprehensive practical cook kit video I've seen! I've been camping for along time and thought I'd heard it all.... so many tips I'm taking away here, thanks so much!!!
Awesome! Thank you!
Really enjoy your videos. I’d love to hear about your sleep system.
will do-
Loved this! I would truly like your other videos!
Ok thanks!
Very helpful. I'm looking forward to the sleeping and shelter videos. My tent is too heavy, and I think my sleeping bag is also.💚
coming up in a bit
Really enjoy your videos. Have camped for over 60 years. Take care.
Awesome! Thank you!
All good advice Wendy I had one of those white gas stoves and don't miss them.The pocket rocket is a good stove I used one made by snow peak that was about the same thing only without the rocket sound .If it was not for coffee I would go cook less on short hikes .
Hello Gary- thanks for sharing your thoughts- I would like my stove to be quieter too. I find the alcohol stove such a great little stove for those day hikes. I have ordered a small holder for the container so it will be even lighter to carry- will see how that goes once I get it.
@@wendyoutdoors2230 I'm not worried about you but people need to be careful with alcohol stoves I was about a day behind a young guy on the PCT and he knocked his over and started a grass fire the forest service closed the trail and put it out and fined him,sent him the bill and banned him from the forest for five years and he is the reason you need a fire permit in Cali if you camp.
I also saw a guy lite up a picnic table full of other peoples gear on the AT,he became a solo hiker the next day.People just need to be careful as with all fire.
Very good video!
thank you Kerry anne
The windscreen, from my experience you are correct. Bought one years ago when I didn't know any better and have been using the ones i made ever since. You can tailor them to your exact need. The only item I use that is different enough from yours to be worth mentioning is a large Wildo Foldacup. Large enough to be used as a cup or bowl, compact, durable and light though maybe not big enough if you are cooking something more elaborate. The Wildo stuff is generally good but the Large cup is the item that gets the most use.
thanks so much for the tip. I found them on amazon- may order one. as for the wind screen, a viewer told me she puts 2 or 3 holes along the bottom and uses thin tent stakes to hold it to the ground. Sounded like such a good idea I adjusted mine today. Tried out in the back yard, works really well.
Fabulous video !! I look forward to your future gear videos.
thanks very much Annmarie
Love all this info! Could you please share the artist name of your gorgeous painting behind you? I ❤ it!!!
Her name is Misha Smart, Sidney BC Canada