Camping Gear Products

Strictly Swiss Gear Products

2007-12-23T07:02:00.000-08:00

A new website has opened up offereing nothing but Swiss Gear Products. The company has been in business for a decade. Their reason for doing this is to specialize the focus of their goods they offer. Right now, items for 2008 are being uploaded into the store where you can purchase online.

Note the brand new shopping cart that is developed by Kryptronic Corporation. When you click on the larger images, you may see anything from a Flash movie of the product, a slideshow of different images or a larger popup image. I found the interface very user friendly and prices comparable to the rest. I know that this company offering Swiss Gear Proucts are customer oriented.

New Website for Wenzel Air Beds

2007-05-01T18:41:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post a link to this new website for Wenzel air beds. This is a new shopping cart just released in February 2007. All programming language is totally unique. The company that designed the shopping cart software is called Krytronic.

Here's the link to the store.

New Camping Canopy From Wenzel

2007-02-04T20:40:00.000-08:00

Smart Shade Canopy 10’ x 10’(#SG33046)

The New Smart Shade Canopy sets up in minutes.

Available after 02/14/07

Only $99.99

Click here to view more details >>>

New Camping Shower Tent From Wenzel

2007-02-04T20:33:00.000-08:00

Why rough it when you can take along this brand new shower tent? Introduced by the Wenzel company for 2007, this shower tent is the perfect solution for camping privacy and comfort when camping.

Available after 03/06/07

Only $49.99

Click here to see more >>>>

New Wenzel Ultimate Portable Bed

2006-07-27T18:39:00.000-07:00

Just introduced by Wenzel is this Ultimate Insta-bed with frame.

Here are some features of the Ultimate Insta-Bed

Dimensions: 74” X 34” X 9” (twin), 80” X 60” X 9” (queen)
Weight limits : Twin 300 lbs, Full 400 lbs, Queen 450 lbs

More >>>>>>>

Easy to follow setup instructions:

• Open the bed by unzipping the case completely and laying the panels flat on the floor
• Plug in the cord and turn the pump to inflate
• As the bed is nearing completion, test the firmness with your hand. Be sure not to over inflate. • Turn the pump off.
• Suede top keeps bedding in place
• Durable steel frame

Ultimate Insta-Bed™ with AC pump

2006-06-24T23:05:00.000-07:00

Introducing the new Ultimate Insta-Bed™ with AC pump.

The new Ultimate Insta-bed is the perfect solution for un-expected company, dorms, and other uses.

This new bed comes in twin size for only $199.99
Upgrade to a queen for only $60.00 more.

Click here for more information >>>>>

Features:

• Open the bed by unzipping the case completely and laying the panels flat on the floor
• Plug in the cord and turn the pump to inflate
• As the bed is nearing completion, test the firmness with your hand. Be sure not to over inflate. • Turn the pump off.
• Suede top keeps bedding in place
• Durable steel frame

Wenzel Biscayne ll Outdoor Shade Canopy

2006-06-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

Free UPS Ground Shipping On This Item!

Now only $119.99 More >>>>

Base Size: 17’ x 15’
Center Height: 93’’
Wall Height: 80’’
Roof: Weather Armor™ Polyester
Walls: 68D Polyethelene Mesh
Floor: NoneFrame
Type: Steel
Doors: Inverted ’’T’’ Style, 2 Ea.
Pegs: Steel
Zipper: Nylon Coil Zipper
Carry Weight: 28lbs.

Features:

• Two large, inverted ’’T’’ style doors for easy entrance/exit.
• 68D Mesh keeps out even the smallest insects
• Six roof sleeves and hexagon styling for excellent stability.
• Enamel coated steel frame is chaincorded for ease of set-up
• Durable, multi-spoked center hub makes set-up fast and easy
• Weather Armor™ Polyester fabric for durability

New Folding Knife From Leatherman

2006-02-19T14:54:00.000-08:00

Take a look at these this new folding knife by Leatherman.

Makes the perfect gift.

Only $69.99 and free shipping! More >>>

This one comes with the following:

Bit Driver. Carry six screwdrivers in the space of two. Versatile bit drivers come with double-ended bits that quickly change to fit the demands of the day’s work. Included are Phillips #1 and 2, 1/8" 3/16" and 1/4" width flathead, and #15 Torx. Additional accessory bits are available.

Carabiner. Our patent-pending carabiner stays hidden until you need it, nesting with other components to save space. Then a simple thumb action is all that is required to hang your Leatherman knife on a backpack, rope or belt loop. Plus, it locks into place so attachment is easy.

Bottle Opener. The carabiner is also designed to be the best bottle cap lifter we’ve ever offered. And since it easily rotates or slides out with one hand, you won’t have to wait long to enjoy your reward for a day’s work well done.

Camping Forums - Share Your Tips, Stories, and Photos

2006-02-02T06:03:00.000-08:00

Here's a great online camping forum where you can share your tips, stories and even start your own photo album of your camping trips.

No cost to join. Give it a try! Click Here to Visit Camping Forums

Here's a link to the welcome note by the webmaster offering members a discount code to the camping gear on the store . Click here for more information >>>>>

Wenger Hydration Packs

2006-01-15T11:04:00.000-08:00

Wenger Kirchberg Hydration Pack

Only $19.99 plus S&H

Click here for more information >>>

2 LiterHydration Pack WG24301.1
Size: 16" x 7" x 3"
Capacity: 2-liter
Colors: Red/Gray
Fabrics: 600D polyester, 420D nylon nailhead, 450D poly ripstop 200D poly lining

Features:

DoubleShot™ bite valve
Taste free reservoir
Reflective material
External bungee lashing system
Flow-through mesh shoulder straps
Wenger brushed aluminum medallion logo

New Sleeping Bags for 2006

2006-01-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

New sleeping bags for 2006 are here!

Starting at just $29.99 you can find the perfect mummy sleeping bag to keep you warm at night.

Click Here to see more >>>

Check out the other new items available for 2006 while your there.

If you need a little assistance selecting a sleeping bag, this blog might help. Click Here to read

Looking for a Screen House With a Floor?

2005-12-29T08:25:00.000-08:00

The new Wenger Lugano tent introduced this year (Available in March 2006) may be what you are looking for. Check this out at Wenzel Camping Gear

You can purchase this tent now to reserve yours when they arrive! Only $189.99

How To Select a Sleeping Bag

2005-12-21T05:35:00.000-08:00

When purchasing a sleeping bag, you need to consider three things:

1). Primary Use: Hunting/Fishing, Backpacking, Camping, At Home

2). Temperature Rating to Match Weather Conditions

3). Body Size, Sleeping Habits

Primary Use

Home/Backyard : Home use. More fashion oriented fabrics & colors, smaller
sizes for kids in the backyard, warmer temp. ratings

Family Camping : Rectangular, see size variations for different members of
family

Hunting/Fishing : Large rectangular, with heavy-duty durable outer. For cooler
temp. ratings

Hiking/Backpacking : Compactible, lightweight bag, possible mummy. For cooler
temp. ratings

Temperature Rating

Sleeping bags are usually rated for the lowest temperature at which they can
keep an average person comfortable. The amount and type of insulation achieve
the rating.

The ratings are a general guide, but not absolute. The final warmth factor
depends on ones body metabolism, as well as the ground temperature, wind, humidity,
altitude, and clothing that you will be sleeping in.

Ratings as low as -40º F are best for expedition camping in frigid conditions.
Ratings in the +35º F to +40º F are best for warmer weather camping
trips.

Body Size/Sleeping Habits

Sleeping bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Select the size and shape
that best fits your size and sleeping habit.

Kids : 28" x 57" smaller overall for less area to warm. Fun, bright
colors.

Junior : 29" x 66" either a shorter bag or slimmer bag for the young
adults or petite person.

Standard : 33" x 75" standard for average sized person.

Double Bags : Two bags zipped together to form a double sleeper to accommodate
two people.

Oversized : either extra long for taller 33" x 78", extra wide 38"
x 81" for bigger (or person who likes more room).

Mummy Shape: Lighter weight for backpacking, and for colder weather trips,
but more confining.

All Wenzel sleeping bags are machine washable.

Use a Wenzel sleeping mat with your bag for extra comfort and warmth.

Air Bed FAQ's

2005-12-18T18:05:00.000-08:00

There are some things to consider before buying an air bed.

Please read the following article for some helpful guidelines, and questions often asked.

People look for air beds for various reasons. Here are some of the most common reasons:

• Sleepovers
• Weekend visitors
• Vacations
• College dorms
• Unexpected guests
• Watching TV

An air bed can prove useful for several reasons. They are less expensive than a normal bed and are far more portable.

Consider some questions that are often asked:

Q: How long does it take to pump the bed up?

Generally speaking, it depends on the size of your bed. I have personally timed the pump-up time for the queen size Insta-bed and it has taken on an average about 4 Minutes. This is the A/C operated model. Smaller beds will naturally be less time.

Q: Why does my bed loose air after the first few hours or day?

This is a very good question, but also a very easy one to answer. There are two basic reasons this happens and you CAN expect both to happen with any air bed you purchase, no matter who it is from.

1). Air contraction: Have you ever pumped up a ball with a hand pump and noticed how warm the hand pump gets? This is because compressed air creates heat. Like a hot-air balloon, the heated air expands. When it cools off, it contracts. The same thing happens when you pump up an air bed. The heat created during pump up expands the air inside the mattress. After an hour or so, it cools off and the mattress loses volume. Needless to say that if you pumped up your air bed in the heat of the afternoon, it will cool off drastically at night when the temperature may drop. After a couple of top-offs this will level out.

2). Material expansion: As well, the air bed material expands when it is pumped up to full volume. It will stretch when someone lies down upon it. After some time goes by, the bed may appear to loose air because of this expansion. In either case, all that is needed is to top the air bed off with either the built-in pump, or SPS pump that is built into the bed. This is not to say that air beds do not leak because they can. But it will help dispel some of the common problems many attribute to leakage.

Q: How can I find a leak in my air bed?

First, pump up your bed to full volume. Next, make a solution of soapy water using dishwashing soap. Put a little soap solution on the seams or anywhere else on the bed that you would suspect a leak. If you suspect it near the built-in pump, use caution. You don’t want to ruin your pump with soapy water. Now look for bubbles. If you see these bubbles chances are your bed is leaking.

Q: How can I fix a leak that I find in my bed?

With each air bed there is a small repair kit supplied. This kit may be used with no problem. If however, you cannot find this repair kit or have used it already, any waterbed repair kit or bike tire repair kit can be used.

If you’re searching for an air bed to take on your camping trips, no doubt you will want to purchase one that has a low profile, or sits lower to the ground. Not to say that you can’t take along one of our raised air beds, because you can, especially if they are battery operated. Lower profile beds give you more room in a tent, and are easier to maneuver.

What are the benefits of a battery operated bed? For one, it makes it easier to pump up your bed when on camping trips. Some might say: ‘I already have a pump … it plugs into my cigarette lighter in my car! … Why would I need another?’

While you can pump up the Insta-bed™ with one of these too, having a built-in pump that operates on batteries can be even more convenient. Why? Most of the time pumping your mattress up using your car cigarette lighter involves having the bed outside of your tent, pumping it up, and trying to get it through the door (if your tent is small). With the battery operated Insta-bed™ there is no need to worry. Bring your bed into the tent rolled up. Unroll it and start the pump.

Sounds simple enough, but many customers have literally ruined doors on their tents by trying to get a huge mattress through the door after pumping it up at their car.

With the Insta-bed™ you can even take along one of the raised beds if you like. No need to worry about getting it through the door either. When your trip is all done, simple let out the air and carry it out the door. It’s that simple. If you really want to “rough it” most bed sheets work well with these air beds as the flocked top is made specifically to help hold these in place. The flocked top also helps hold slippery sleeping bags from sliding off onto the floor of the tent at night.

If you’re not car camping, perhaps a Wenzel sleeping matt would server you better.

Selecting a Camping Tent and Discount Code

2005-12-16T08:52:00.000-08:00

If you're in the market for a new tent there are a few things to consider before making your purchase.

• What type of camping am I going to be doing?
• How many people will be using the tent?
• How much gear am I going to put into the tent?
• Is the tent easy to set up?• What about the durability and warranty?

Let's take these questions one at a time, and address why they are so important to consider.

Q: What type of camping am I going to do?

Important to consider, because if you're car camping it doesn't really matter how much the tent weighs. However, if you're doing any backpacking at all, you don't want a tent that takes all your energy up with in the first 2 miles of the trail. Car camping usually involves one or two people. Therefore the tent can be fairly large because you're not going to be moving it everyday. The poles can generally be heavier, the tent much larger, and the overall package can take up space that you couldn't afford if you're on a lengthy backpacking trip. Are you going where there is a chance for rain? Then try to choose a tent with a large rain fly, preferably one that comes as close to the ground as possible.

Additionally, most manufacturers’ allow you to put some sort of rain repellent on the tent without voiding the manufacturer warranty. If you choose to do so, please follow all the precautions set forth on the label of the can. Should you expect the tent be waterproof? Only if the manufacturer states that the tent is “waterproof”. If it does not say waterproof, then don't expect a watertight ship. Most tents today are “water resistant”. This means that for the most part you can expect to stay dry on your camping trip as long as the rain storm is minor, and doesn’t flood your campsite.

It sounds a little gruff, but what I tell most people is that a tent is not a house. You can't expect to set a tent up under your garden hose for any length of time and not see some sort of condensation. True, there are some very robust tents on the market today that will hold out the rain, but you will pay the price for them as well. I can say from personal experience that Wenzel tents are very good even in a major downpour. The price is not outrageous and if used correctly, will result in a very enjoyable trip. I have been car camping with my family when caught in a large rainstorm that lasted for two hours or more hours. We generally try not to camp when it’s raining, but I was very impressed with the robustness of these tents.. We had a few minor drops along the base where we didn’t apply any sealer, but that can happen. You can help eliminate water seepage by using a good tent sealer in these areas of the tent. There are other things you can do however, to keep yourself dry even in that largest of downpours.

You can read for yourselves on page two of most Wenzel instructions, that the tents are water repellent NOT water proof. You should know this up front as they are being very honest in their approach. If you follow the recommended setup procedures, and use common camping techniques, your trip should prove enjoyable.

Q: How many people will be using the tent?

If you're going to be car camping, once again you can take a fairly large tent with you and quite a number of people can sleep in a large tent. If you're like most people though, no one likes to be packed in like sardines. Sometimes you see these drawings of tent floor layouts where it literally looks like sardines in a can. I don’t know how you feel, but I certainly don't like to be packed in like that! That’s why you don’t see any of these types of floor layout drawings on our website. So why not make your trip more enjoyable by choosing a tent that has room for both people and gear. This brings us to the next question.

Q: How much gear am I going to put into the tent?

On the average more families go car camping than they do backpacking. If you're taking along a large tent then you have room for a lot of gear, that is, unless you have a lot of people too. In that case, you'll want to choose a tent which has room for both gear and people. If I go car camping, I always like to have room for gear in my tent. The same holds true with backpacking. The point is you want your trip to be enjoyable without feeling like a sardine.

Q: Is the tent easy to set up?

I thought I would personally address this question because I often get calls from people asking if they can setup a particular tent by themselves. The answer is: “It depends on the size of the tent”. If the tent is our premium seller the Wenzel Cedar Glen 4 - Room Cabin/Dome Tent, I would say No … it takes two and possibly three.

If it’s a smaller backpacking tent, then I would say yes. I suggest that if possible, have some help while setting up your tent whether it is someone in your immediate camping group or someone on the camp ground. It always goes easier having someone help you.
Most tent poles today are made of re-enforced fiberglass. Please treat them with care. Yes, they are very durable and strong, but they can break. If you follow the instructions as per wrote, and don’t force things … all will be fine.

If the instructions say to bend the pole slightly to get it into a particular place, then do so slowly and slightly. Having someone help in this regard is usually better. Trying to bend a large pole yourself usually results in having two poles … one for each hand! If you find yourself getting frustrated then simply STOP. Take a breather and try again after you have cooled down. Yes, it can be frustrating the first time or so, but if you take your time on the initial setup, next time will be easier.

Above all, try to set the tent up before you go camping, perhaps your backyard. Be kind, not only to yourself, but to those around you. How many times have you been in a camp ground where everyone is getting ready to bed down for the night, and someone comes strolling in to setup their tent by means of their car headlights, and on top of that … they have never set the tent up at all! Granted, sometimes leaving work late on a Friday night will get you to the camp ground late, so I don’t want to be rude, but the point is if you know what you’re doing before you get there, the pain will be less both for you and the people around you. Be a good fellow camper.

Q: What about the durability and warranty?

WARRANTY INFORMATION:

Wenzel tents manufactured since 2000 carry a 10-year Manufacturer's Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for the verified original purchaser only.

WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER: This warranty does not cover damage for wear & tear, abuse, weather damage, improper use or alteration and it is the sole express warranty relating to the Wenzel product.There are times when manufacturing defects will raise their ugly heads. At those times you can be sure that Wenzel will back you up. Although there is a toll free number you can call (800-325-8368) try contacting the retailer you originally bought it from. If you're not able to obtain results there, then call the Wenzel Company.

As you can see however, the warranty does not cover normal wear, tear, or abuse whether from animals or humans.

Take care of your tent and it will take care of you. In this regard I have a few
suggestions:

1). First and foremost follow the instructions that come with your tent.

2). Once again, take your time during setup. Have someone help you. If you find yourself getting frustrated, then take a little break. Use all zippers slowly. I say this because this can be a major cause of so called tent failure. Zippers will last a long time if you take your time with them, and watch what you’re doing when you operate them. You could say that the thought of taking your time, and not getting frustrated work together.

3). If it happens to rain on your tent during the camping trip, then try to wait until it dries before you pack up and go home. If this is not possible, then by all means unpack the tent as soon as possible when you arrive home and set it up to air out. This will prolong the life of your tent; help avoid mold issues, and wet tent aroma. I can recall one of the times I used an old canvas tent on an outing. It rained, we packed it up wet. When we got home we left it in the bag for the next time. When the next time came, it was wall to wall mold! Don’t let that happen to you.

Happy Camping in 2006!

For those that wish to subscribe to our camping news, you may use this discount code when you purchase items from our website

Subscribers Discount Code: "wenzelblog" (W/O Quotes)
(*) This discount does not apply to items already on sale

New Swiss Gear Hiking Pole Now In Stock for 2006

2005-12-16T07:06:00.000-08:00

Just in for 2006 Swiss Gear Hiking Pole for only $19.99

Got someone that lieks to hike in your family? Here's a great gift idea.
These poles are nice looking anodized aluminum and can be set at whatever height you desire.
Right now they are offered at at great price with free UPS ground shipping!

Click Here for More >>>

Wenzel Raised Air Bed - Wenger Sleep System Combo

2005-12-16T06:58:00.000-08:00

Now a raised air bed - sleep system combo for a reasonable price

Click Here for More >>>

Get this great Wenzel raised air bed along with the easy to use Wenger sleep system. They compliment eachother and are easy to use. Both have their own carry bag and are great for al kinds of uses:

Sleepovers
Weekend Visitors
Vacations
College Dorms
Un-expected Guests

Leatherman Super Tool 200

2005-12-14T19:54:00.000-08:00

Get the Leatherman Super Tool 200 for only $59.99 (Free Shipping)

10 locking blades, with sliding lock release·Comfortable handles
Saw blade, 2 knives, 4 screwdrivers,Pliers
Wire Cutters, File, Ruler, Bottle/Can Opener
Wire Stripper, Electrical Crimper, Awl
Lanyard Attachment
The biggest tool Leatherman makes
Stainless steel 5-year guarantee
With belt sheath

Click here to see more >>>

New for 2006 - Wenger Lugano Family Tent

2005-12-14T19:03:00.000-08:00

Wenger Lugano Family Dome Tent with Canopy (#WG31226)
Available after 3/13/2006

Now Only $189.99 Click Here for More >>>

Free UPS Ground Shipping On This Item!

Style Number : WG31226
Base Size: 16’ x 10
Actual Area: 131 sq. ft.
Center Height: 74"
Sleeps: 7-8 People
Tent Fabric: Polyester Taffeta
Fly Fabric: Embossed Rip-stop Fly
Floor Fabric: Sonic Welded Polyethylene floor
Frame Type: Chain-corded Steel poles
Door: Dutch "D" and inverted "T" style doors.

Features:

• Snag-free zipper covers
• Sewn-in-divider curtain
• Factory taped fly seams
• Canopy
• Climate control venting system
• E-port, Zippered duffel bag
• Integrated Mud mat and shoe pocket included.