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MPOWERD’s Luci Candle blow-up lantern flickers like a real flame, but without the fire danger and waxy mess. It gives off a cozy, romantic soft-amber glow, making it our go-to candle for ambient in-tent/in-van lighting. We collapse them and put them on our dashboard while driving to recharge.

They’re also good for illuminating walkways in a non-obtrusive way. They pair nicely with Luci Color, a larger, brighter light with eight color hues.

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Best Compact Solar Camping Light

Goal Zero's Crush Light Chroma

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We really like the easy collapsibility and tidiness of Goal Zero’s Crush Light Chroma. When expanded, it’s easy to hang and stable on a table. It comes with a pleasing warm white light, plus seven other color modes for a more festive feel.

Ten LEDs give off 60 lumens at full brightness, but it will only last a few hours on that mode. And because it only has a tiny solar panel for input, we usually keep it on a lower setting. Charges via solar or USB.

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Best Campsite Solar Lantern for Cooking

Luminaid Titan Two-in-One Power Lantern

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The workhouse, blow-up Luminaid Titan Two-in-One Power Lantern comes with a ton of features. It twists for easily inflation and lights a 300-square-foot area. Multiple light settings include a 300-lumen bright mode and a red-light one for night vision.

Other features include charging via built-in solar or USB and an adjustable hook-and-loop fabric fastener strap handle and carabiner loops for easy hanging. It pairs well with Luminaid’s Bloomio lanterns, which use Bluetooth to customize color modes and lighting warmth and schedules.

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Best Ultra-Portable Solar String Lights for Camping

Revel Gear's Trail Hound

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Revel Gear’s Trail Hound offers a 30-foot string, 100 bulbs, a compact design and low energy draw (one watt-hour). Power the cheery, warm vibes via USB or pair with Revel’s Day Tripper Solar Pack. Charge the 8,000 milliampere hour (mAh) battery via sunlight or USB.

It also features two USB outlets for charging devices, a built-in 1,000-lumen LED grid light, and a black light that’s great for night scorpion spotting in the desert.

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Best Splurge String Lights for Camping

MPOWERD's Luci 44-foot Solar String Lights + Detachable Power Hub

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Want a reasonably compact set of string lights that covers a large area? Check out MPOWERD’s Luci 44-foot Solar String Lights + Detachable Power Hub, a luxe setup for camp or a more permanent home installation.

It offers 20 low-profile, warm-light bulbs on 44 feet of cable, powered by a detachable 4,000 mHa battery, which can be charged through the built-in solar panel or USB port. The battery can also charge your devices.

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Best Patio-Style Solar Powered String Lights for Camping

Brightech's Ambiance Solar Powered Outdoor String Lights

44.9942% OFF$25.99 at Amazon

With large Edison-style bulbs, Brightech’s Ambiance Solar Powered Outdoor String Lights add a festive feel to the backwoods or your back porch. They usually provide us enough light for cooking, depending on how we arrange them.

Each strand is 27 feet long (18 feet lit) with 12 shatterproof bulbs and a detachable solar panel with an on-off switch. The only drawback: They’re a little bulky if you’re short on cargo space.

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Best Solar Stake Lights for Camping

Uco's StakeLight Tent Stakes

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These technically aren’t solar, but Uco’s StakeLight Tent Stakes with LED lights are really useful for campsite safety. They prevent stumbling over cords and other campsite obstacles when it’s time for a midnight bathroom run.

Made from sturdy aluminum, they and pair well with Uco’s Pika Three-in-One rechargeable combo lantern-flashlight. Get these innovative AAA batteries, which can be recharged via USB from solar, and they’ll officially get their power from the sun.

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Best Long-Term Camping Solar Light System

BioLite's Solar Home 620+

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If you’re hoping to settle down at an off-grid campsite or a seasonal cabin, the BioLite’s Solar Home 620+ self-contained system can make it feel more like a home. It comes with a 6W solar panel, three hanging lights, wall-mounted light switches (one with a motion sensor), an FM/MP3 radio system and a bunch of other features, all compact enough to fit in a package the size of a shoebox.

Pair with BioLite’s SunLite 100 small portable lights and AlpenGlow 250 multicolor rechargeable lantern.

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Best Emergency Light for Camping

EMRG lantern

19.9512% OFF$17.50 at Amazon

MPOWERD’s Luci mini inflatable EMRG lantern is a pocket-size safety solution for hiking and home power outages. It features an S.O.S. beacon mode, three cool-white LEDs and one red one. It’s waterproof, durable and pairs well with the Luci Core utility solar light.

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Best Solar Powered Camping Headlamp

MPOWERD's Luci Beam Two-in-One Solar Headlamp and Flashlight

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You’ll find a lot of rechargeable headlamps on the market now. MPOWERD’s Luci Beam Two-in-One Solar Headlamp and Flashlight is a true solar-powered device, with a built-in panel plus a quick-charge USB port.

Magnets make it fast and easy to switch between flashlight and headlamp modes. The 300-lumen light brightens without being obnoxious, and it comes with an adjustable 90-degree tilt.

The post 10 Best Solar Lights and Lanterns to Illuminate Your Campsite Adventures appeared first on Family Handyman.

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We’re awarding BougeRV’s Rocky 55-quart electric cooler best in show because of its versatility, size, weight, depth of features and affordability. After testing it out, it’s become our go-to mid-size electric cooler.

BougeRV’s Rocky series was designed for overlanding, which means multi-day off-road adventures. Testing challenge accepted! Since it’s designed for rough and tumble situations, the Rocky 55 is fitted with a flashy, durable stainless steel exterior that’s strong enough to withstand 664 pounds loaded on top of it. The Rocky is also efficient on power, drawing just 45 watts in eco-mode. As a bonus, the metal casing is also fingerprint resistant, so it stayed looking fresh, even when we did not.

The Rocky 55 is a true dual-zone model, which means you can assign each of its two compartments to be a fridge or a freezer. It also has a removable divider between them, which we found to be particularly handy when we were trying to fit a rack of ribs and a big bunch of chard. It would also be great for anglers or hunters who needed some extra length to store their catch.

As an upsell, you can buy a 173 Wh battery to run it off of, which can take 100 watts of solar (panel also sold separately). While most other manufacturers make unrealistic claims about how long their batteries will last under real-world conditions, BougeRV is refreshingly honest and spot-on with theirs: expect it to last only around four hours on eco-mode in hot weather.

Of course, as with most electric coolers, you can also run it off of your car’s 12V socket, a regular AC wall plug or a portable power station. If you’re going that latter route, for any sizable electric cooler, plan on about 1,000 watt-hours per day (or better yet, 1,500 to be safe).

The Rocky 55 is also compact and lightweight for its capacity, not much larger on the outside than the Anker EverFrost 30, Bluetti MultiCooler, or EcoFlow Glacier, but with quite a bit more room inside. It’s also about 6 pounds lighter.

The Rocky’s biggest (perhaps only) flaw is that it doesn’t have wheels, making it more awkward to transport. Unless you’re particularly burly, you’ll want to do a team carry with this (and most other electric coolers, for that matter).

BougeRV’s rocky series comes in 41- to 81-quart sizes, and the company also makes several other lines of portable coolers.

Capacity:  55 Quarts | Weight: 44 Pounds  | Power Draw: 60-watt |  Dual Zone: Yes | App Controlled: Yes

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Best Dual-Zone

Newair Portable 80 Qt. Electric Car Camping Cooler

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756.7639% OFF$459.99 at Amazon

Newair’s 80-quart electric cooler includes many of the features as other top-end manufacturer models but at a fraction of the price. It would have received our best overall slot, except the size is a little unwieldy for everyday use. That being said, we personally prefer this size cooler, which is perfect for extended road and camping trips or any day that involves a family or work crew.

This dual-zone cooler has ample fridge and freezer space and only draws 80 watts, which means it’s a good candidate for running off of a portable power station or 12V car outlet. It has a sturdy feel and a pleasant, textured and rugged look.

Due to its large capacity, it’s a behemoth to transport (definitely a two-person lift into the car if you value your back; plus, it takes up most of the back seat of our SUV). But, it’s perfect for an extended camping trip. We found the capacity can hold enough fresh food for a week for two people.

It’s also plenty big to stow food for a family weekend adventure or enough drinks for a decent-size work crew, even on a hot day. And once it’s off the tailgate, it’s actually reasonably easy to move around, thanks to large-diameter wheels that can handle uneven dirt surfaces and a high-quality extending pull handle, complete with a cushioned grip.

The Newair’s closest competitor in this lineup is the Dometic CFX75 DZ, which is slightly heavier and smaller in both capacity and dimensions but costs more than double. The Dometic does draw about a quarter less power, however.

Newair also sells a 173-watt battery/100W solar panel accessory for this, though that won’t power it for very long. If you don’t have a 12V or wall socket, you’re better off using a larger portable power station. The company also sells a 25-quart battery-powered job-site cooler.

Capacity:  80 Quarts | Weight: 59 Pounds  | Power Draw: 80-watt |  Dual Zone: Yes | App Controlled: No

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Best Budget

Alpicool CF45 Portable Fridge Freezer

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269.9915% OFF$229.49 at Amazon

Coming in well under $300, the Alpicool CF45 is an outstanding portable cooler for the price. It’s as energy-efficient as any compressor-style cooler, drawing just 60 watts. We also love it because it is lightweight (a hair over 28 pounds).

The Alpicool has two compartments, which help keep food organized. It isn’t a dual-zone model since both compartments stay at the same temperature. However, you can choose to make it either a fridge or a freezer. This is also the only cooler in the lineup with a lid that opens from the short side. That could make it more or less convenient to access your food, depending on how you’ve got it stowed in your vehicle. I found it to be desirable.

Despite it being on the budget side, we found the Alpicool a good fit for off-roading. Other than the Bluetti, it’s the only model in this lineup that can function at up to a 45-degree tilt (versus the rest, which will typically shut off at around 30 degrees but turn back on after a few minutes once righted). Its bottom corners are reinforced with plastic protectors, which did their job, and it’s advertised as having an anti-vibration feature, though we couldn’t verify precisely what that is or how it works. But it sounds good!

On the downside, it has a bit of funkiness that’s probably inevitable at this price point. It gets down to temperature quickly but also warms up fast, which means the compressor runs a lot, and this particular compressor is pretty noisy. It also doesn’t freeze ice as fast as other models (it took about three hours, versus two for all others that don’t have ice makers).

The control panel looks like it’s straight off of an 80s graphing calculator, but works fine. The wire baskets have large gaps, which allow food to fall through when you lift them up. There is no drain and some random circular indents in the bottom, which makes it harder to clean. And finally, it doesn’t have any wheels, but that’s common for a cooler of this size.

All in all, this is a great cooler for the price. Its outer dimensions are small enough to hold a cooler of this capacity, so it’s a great space saver. But it’s not a good fit for situations where you don’t have constant or unlimited power, especially if it’s sitting in warm ambient air temperatures.

Alpicool makes a lot of other models, too, from little 10-quart personal coolers up to 60-quart dual-zones.

Capacity:  42 Quarts | Weight: 28.4 Pounds  | Power Draw: 60-watt |  Dual Zone: No | App Controlled: Yes

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Best for Job Site

Ryobi One+ 18V 24 Qt. Hybrid Battery Powered Iceless Cooler

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489.9919% OFF$399 at Amazon

If you already use Ryobi tools, then adding this electric cooler to your job site or tailgating kit is an obvious choice. It can run off of one or two Ryobi 1 batteries, plus it comes with cords for an AC wall outlet or a car 12V electric socket.

For an electric cooler, it is lightweight enough to solo lift in and out of the truck. It’s also refreshingly straightforward: there’s just one compartment, which can be set as a fridge or freezer. It holds up to 40 12-ounce cans and comes with an impressive 3-year warranty. There are also tie-down loops, an integrated bottle opener and a USB-A port for charging your phone.

The LCD screen is easy to use and displays both the temperature and battery level. It’s also easy to clean, thanks to the single compartment with a drain. We accidentally put that to the test when we used it to temporarily store a bag of fresh-roasted green chiles, which had a leak in it. The ensuing layer of gooey, dark liquid wiped right up and didn’t leave a trace.

The biggest downside to the Ryobi One+ cooler is that it doesn’t come with any batteries, and those are pretty pricey. So if you don’t already use Ryobi battery-powered products, there are far better deals out there on other electric cooler brands. For its size, this cooler is also on the expensive end, even if you’re already in the Ryobi family. Plus, the battery configuration is a little clunky, with the battery compartment taking up more room than it needs to. On the upside, the color scheme means you’ll never lose it, even in the dark.

This cooler is a little small for most camping needs, but it is perfect for keeping a stock of refreshingly cool drinks and unspoiled burritos and sandwiches. Because it’s so lightweight and portable, we’ve been using it both on the job site, where we’re building a workshop, on day trips to go leaf peeping, and on runs to the big city to pick up materials and supplies. It would also be a great choice for long- and short-haul truck drivers.

Capacity:  24 Quarts | Weight: 32 Pounds  | Power Draw: N/A |  Dual Zone: No | App Controlled: No

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Best for Quick Cooling

Anker SOLIX EverFrost 2 40L Electric Cooler

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If fast cooling is your primary goal, Anker’s SOLIX EverFrost 2 is a good bet. Once powered up, its powerful compressor can cool the interior from 77 degrees to 32 degrees Fahrenheit in an impressive 15 minutes. It reaches temperatures of negative 4 degrees Fahrenheit on the lowest end. Choose from Max Mode or Eco Mode depending on your needs: Max for the quickest cooling, Eco for energy conservation. Or, tap into Anker’s Smart Mode, which auto-balances cooling power and energy consumption.

Anker claims its batteries will power the cooler for up to 4.3 days, but don’t bet on that under real-world conditions, especially if you open it to retrieve items frequently and it’s warm outside. And note that the 4-day figure is based on having two 288-watt-hour batteries in the unit, and it comes with just one. You can insert a second, but you’ll have to buy it separately.

Our primary complaint about this one is that it isn’t a dual-zone unit, so you either freeze or you refrigerate, not both. (The larger version of this unit is dual-zone, though.) On the bright side, the battery accepts four methods of charging: USB-C, solar (100 watts), AC wall outlet or 12-volt car outlet. So wherever you need to recharge, there’s a way.

Capacity:  42 quarts | Weight: 50.7 Pounds  | Power Draw: 100-watt |  Dual Zone: No | App Controlled: Yes

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Best for Beach and Boat

Bluetti MultiCooler Fridge Plus AC180T Power Station

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On its own, Bluetti’s MultiCooler Fridge has many good features, including a self-cleaning ice maker. But it’s also designed to be paired with Bluetti’s large B70 modular power system batteries, which makes it a smart option if you’re planning on being off the grid for a while, whether that’s on a day-long beach picnic or an indefinite voyage on a live-aboard boat.

The cooler has a 42-quart capacity main compartment plus a 9.5-quart ice/freezer section. We found it ran quietly, except when the ice maker was engaged. That racket took about 24 minutes for the first batch and about half of that for subsequent batches. The Bluetti cooler will, however, pause cooling in the main compartment while ice is being made. As a bonus, it automatically drops completed cubes into the ice compartment.

Bluetti’s MultiCooler is also a good choice for off-roaders. Like the Alpicool, it has a 45-degree tilt tolerance and recessed metal sidebars. As we took it up a rocky mountain pass, we appreciated being able to use those to strap it down securely. Even though it’s a bit heavy to lift, it pulled decently around camp, and I liked the padded handle. The wheels are rather small, though, so it’s a bit of a bear over rough terrain.

Other helpful features include USB-A and USB-C ports for charging electronics and a removable lid. I also particularly appreciate that its food baskets have a smaller wire pattern than most other coolers. This means bottles stand upright better, and food doesn’t fall through when you pick the whole basket up to unload it.

The power system can be plugged into a wall outlet or a 12V car socket or used with one of Bluetti’s B70 batteries (sold separately), which each carry an impressive 716 watt-hours. Once one of those is in, you can add up to 200W of solar charging to the mix.

Bluetti encourages pairing the MultiCooler Fridge with its AC180T Power Station, which holds two B70 batteries. By doing this, you can expand your battery capacity indefinitely by buying more B70s and charging them through the AC180T. It’s also a handy option because you can get a lot of power without having to lug a full power station around — just grab a battery or two as you need them. If you can afford it, we’ve found the cooler plus AC180T to be a great, versatile package since you can also use the AC180T as a power station for all sorts of other electricity needs.

Capacity:  42 Quarts | Weight: 53 Pounds  | Power Draw: 65-watt |  Dual Zone: Yes | App Controlled: Yes

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Best for Campers and Van Camping

Dometic CFX3 75 Dual Zone Powered Cooler

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1399.9917% OFF$1156.89 at Amazon

We adore this dual-zone Dometic, partly because it was our first electric cooler but also because after three years of heavy use and flat-out abuse—including exposure to dust storms, extreme heat and thousands of rocky off-road and washboard miles—it’s still going strong. It even saved us hundreds of dollars in food when our house fridge broke down.

With a 79-quart capacity, it’s among the largest electric coolers on the market, comparable to the Newair model in this write-up. Dometic is known for making particularly good yet expensive RV appliances, and this model is no exception. It’s more than twice the price of the Newair (but still the same price as the EcoFlow Glacier), which is the main reason why we awarded the Newair the best dual-zone electric cooler instead of this one.

The Dometic cooler is also a lunker. Empty, it weighs 61 pounds. Full, it takes two people to carry it (I finally wised up and now take the baskets of food out first before lugging it long distances, duh). It doesn’t come with wheels or a pull handle, either, but you can buy a slide and tie-down kit for it, which is nice if you’re planning on installing it in your van or camper.

But this cooler does hold a lot of food, and it’s very sturdy. Dometic doesn’t list any internal component specs, but after the thousands of hours we’ve run it, it’s safe to say they are of high quality. Cosmetically, however, we have managed to chip the decorative plastic on the outside, but that’s been easily fixable with a bit of J-B Weld. Oh, and the compressor is also very quiet.

Despite its size, it’s great at power conservation, drawing only 60 watts when the compressor is running (25% less power draw than the Newair). Dometic also sells 200 Wh and 960 Wh batteries, which attach to the outside and have solar ports. We never opted for that option, though, since we have a portable power station to run it from when we’re off-grid. Dometic makes a range of other electric coolers, too, all the way up to a 104-quart beast.

Capacity:  79 Quarts | Weight: 61 Pounds  | Power Draw: 60-watt |  Dual Zone: Yes | App Controlled: Yes

What to Look for When Buying an Electric Cooler

Cooling Technology

There are two main categories of cooling technology being used in electric coolers: compressor and thermoelectric. Thermoelectrics generally use less power, are lighter, and don’t contain potentially environmentally harmful refrigerants. On the downside, they don’t get nearly as cold, especially when it’s hot outside. If a cooler doesn’t advertise zero or sub-zero cooling, it’s probably thermoelectric.

If you live in a cool place or just need to keep some veggies from spoiling, a thermoelectric might do the trick.

Compressor Technology

Most people opt for a cooler with a compressor, but not all compressors are the same. “Recent compressor technology developments, such as variable-speed and inverter compressors, are more energy-efficient compared to traditional or single-speed compressors”, says Yashar Mosaferi, CEO of Klondike AC. “To ensure that you get the latest compressor technology, look for the term ‘inverter technology’ in product descriptions”, he says. (Note: We have yet to see an electric cooler brand touting what compressor tech they’re using.)

Size and Weight

With an electric cooler, you’ll save internal space that would be filled with ice. But, because of the compressor size, electric coolers are larger overall than regular coolers. So when deciding what size to get, consider both the inner capacity and the outer dimensions, as well as the weight—because these guys can get pretty hefty.

Power Options

Most models can be powered through a wall or generator outlet (AC), 12V car outlet (DC) or built-in/detachable lithium batteries. A few come with the batteries, but most are an additional purchase. Many have built-in solar inputs as well. Otherwise, if you want to power your cooler via the sun, you could bring along a portable power station with solar panels.

Energy Use (Watt-hours)

The energy efficiency of electric coolers depends on their compressor technology and the quality of insulation. If you’re just plugging your electric cooler into the wall, then how many watts it uses isn’t much of a factor. But if you’re running it off of a battery, a battery being recharged by solar, or your car/RV battery, then more efficient models make life a lot easier.

When calculating how many watt-hours it will take to run a portable cooler, keep in mind that the compressor won’t be running once the cooler is down to temperature. Of course, the more you open the lid or the hotter it is outside, the more the compressor will run and the more watt-hours it will consume.

Cooling Zones

Some larger-capacity electric coolers offer dual-zone cooling, which means one side can be a refrigerator and one a freezer. Often with these, you can also set both sides as a fridge or both as a freezer. The better ones have independent lids for each side. Note: A few models have two sides but can’t be set at independent temperatures, so check that before you buy if that’s an important feature for your needs.

Other Features

Other features that can add to your portable cooler bliss include:

• Adjustable temperature controls
• Durable construction for outdoor use
• Wheels and a pull handle, especially for larger models
• USB charging outlets for phones and other devices
• Bluetooth or Wi-Fi app controls.

Note: None of the models we tested have warming options, but some thermoelectric models, like the 4Patriots Freedom Fridge, can actually heat compartments up to 149 degrees F.

How We Found the Best Electric Coolers

After analyzing 15 electric cooler manufacturers, we settled on 8 we wanted to try. We opted for models with various sizes and features to ensure we included ones for an array of uses, from job sites and picnics to extended car and RV camping.

From there, we evaluated each on its power efficiency (watt-hour use), size and weight, price, power options, cooling zones, pull handles and wheels and other user interfaces. We also tested how well they performed in various scenarios over the course of the summer, including:

• How long it took to freeze trays of ice
• How fast they were able to get down to temperature
• How well they held their temperature in the heat
• How easy it was to clean up spills
• How practical they were for packing food and
• How easy they were to transport.

After adding all of that up, we picked our favorites for various uses, whether that meant going to the beach, living on the road or storing drinks for the crew.

Other Electric Coolers We Tested

• Igloo Iceless Portable Electric 40-quart Cooler: This electric cooler is affordable and easy to carry, being less than 19 pounds. It also draws very little power since it uses thermoelectric technology, compared to the compressors used in the rest of the coolers we tested. If you live in a cool climate and don’t need freezer temperatures, this could be a realistic choice. Also, if you start with frozen food and don’t open the lid, this cooler could keep it from spoiling for a couple of days, so long as it’s not parked in the sun. But otherwise, the technology can only effectively make it 38 degrees cooler than the ambient air temperatures, which means it’s really only practical if it’s less than 60 degrees outside.

FAQ

How long do electric coolers stay cold?

It depends on the power source you’re using. If it’s plugged into a wall outlet, it will stay cold indefinitely. If it’s running off of a battery, it depends on how many watts the battery holds versus how many watts the cooler is drawing. Most coolers that come with batteries advertise between 4 and 40 hours of runtime, though that will be largely affected by the outside air temperature and how often you open the cooler (which will make the compressor have to run more often). If the electricity gets cut off, as long as you don’t open the lid, most electric coolers will still keep your food from spoiling for several hours or even days, similar to a regular cooler.

Can you leave an electric cooler plugged in all the time?

Yes. Electric coolers can stay plugged in indefinitely, though as with any appliance, eventually, the compressor or other parts may wear out.

Can you put ice in an electric cooler?

Yes. In fact, if you don’t have a way to power your electric cooler, you can just put ice in and use it as a regular cooler. But if you do have power, it’s better to avoid using ice since, as it melts, the excess moisture can reduce the efficiency of the insulation, thereby increasing the workload on the compressor or thermoelectric cooling system, plus making your food soggy and leak out of drains that might not be fully sealed. Ice trays for drinks are an exception since the ice is neatly contained. Some electric coolers even include ice makers.

Why You Should Trust Us

My partner and I have been testing and writing about outdoor, camping and workshop products for nearly 30 years. For the last three years, we’ve been putting electric coolers and portable power stations through the wringer, from high-elevation mountains to vast deserts and even tropical islands. We’ve been using them for car and van camping, including weeks-long remote overland expeditions, where solar was the only power source. Back at home, we’ve also been testing electric coolers on our job site and building a new workshop.

Amanda Capritto, content updates editor at Family Handyman, contributed research to and updated this guide. Amanda is a commerce journalist and editor who has written reviews for Garage Gym Reviews, BarBend, Reader’s Digest and more.

Sources

• Yashar Mosaferi is CEO of Klondike AC. He has worked in HVAC and cooling for nearly a decade and is well acquainted with compressor technology and its application to residential and commercial cooling solutions, including portable electric coolers.
• Tom Callahan is Senior VP of Product Development and Customer Experience at 4Patriots, an e-commerce provider of camping, emergency and preparedness products, where he is responsible for product innovation and R&D.

The post We Found the Best Electric Coolers After Expert Testing 8 Options appeared first on Family Handyman.

Luckily, I’ve locked down my all-time favorite outdoor fire pit brand: Solo Stove. I’ve tested products from various outdoor brands, and I’ve written countless Solo Stove reviews. So far, my favorite smokeless fire pit comes from Solo Stove. I’ve spent countless hours testing products from the brand: Fire pits, chairs, pellet patio heaters, you name it. If Solo Stove makes it, I’ve (likely) tested it. Here’s what you need to know before placing an order.

What is Solo Stove?

Solo Stove is a leading outdoor fire pit brand founded in 2011 by two brothers and a small camp stove. Their mission? To gather family and friends to create good memories. They get it.

Now, the brand has grown to include a variety of smokeless fire pits and pizza ovens, patio furniture, outdoor heaters and outdoor accessories. In addition to the official Solo Stove website, you can find select Solo Stove products on Amazon.

How We Test Solo Stove Products

I have tested over a dozen Solo Stove products in nearly every category, including evergreen, limited-edition and seasonal items. I evaluate each product based on the delivery experience, packaging, assembly, quality, and ease of use. Outfitting your patio or backyard setup with Solo Stove gear can be expensive, so I examine, test and review each product as thoroughly as I can with your hard-earned dollar in mind.

Fire Pits

Fire pits are the bread and butter of Solo Stove and the reason the brand was created. Solo Stove fire pits are a great way to add ambiance and (literal) warmth to your outdoor space, and they’re great for roasting smores and hotdogs, as well as grilling other food items.

When it comes to smokeless fire pits, Solo Stove as a brand is a leading force, creating products that meet—and in many cases exceed—industry standards. Each fire pit is made with sturdy, weatherproof 304 stainless steel and designed to funnel smoke upward away instead of outward. Solo Stove’s 360-degree Signature Airflow design heats air to burn off smoke, so you don’t have to shift around the fire pit to avoid teary eyes and a face full of smoke.

One of our favorite fire pit picks is the Bonfire 2.0, made for “the backyard and beyond.” In other words, it’s designed for a permanent or portable fire pit experience. The Solo Stove Bonfire even comes with its own carrying bag, so you can store it safely, load it up, and carry it wherever—camping, tailgating, fall party, you name it. Cleanup is easy, too; the base plate and ash pan are removable, which makes cleaning quick and easy. No special cleaning tools are needed; just lift the base plate to remove the ash pan and dump it.

We also love the Mesa fire pit if you’re looking for a smaller, more compact backyard fire experience. It has the same signature stainless steel design as other Solo Stove fire pits (e.g., the Bonfire 2.0), but it’s miniature and small enough to put on an outdoor table. Getting a fire going only takes a few minutes with the Mesa. Simply place fuel (wood or pellets) into the base of the Mesa, light your fire starter, and you’re ready to go!

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Bonfire 2.0

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Mesa

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$79.99 at Amazon

Pizza Ovens

Did someone say artisan pizza? The Pi Prime is Solo Stove’s first gas-only pizza oven, which comes at a price lower than other gas-powered pizza ovens on the market. The Pi Prime pizza oven is quick and easy to fire up—simply hook it up to an external propane tank and turn the control knob on the front to ignite a flame. After the oven preheats, you’re ready to launch your Neapolitan pizza creation.

Like most standard outdoor pizza ovens, the Pi Prime has a 90-second cooking experience, so pizzas cook ultra-fast at super-high temperatures. Once you’ve nailed launching and turning the pizza without overcooking it, you’ll be whipping up homemade pies for everyone to enjoy.

If you want to try your hand at wood-fired pizza, the Solo Stove Pi Fire provides the ideal gateway to backyard baking. This portable pizza oven topper fits on top of your existing Solo Stove fire pit. Unlike traditional pizza ovens that have space for wood at the bottom, the Pi Fire features long legs that elevate it over your smokeless fire pit.

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Pi Prime Pizza Oven

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MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Pi Fire

Shop at Solo Stove

$249.99 at Amazon

Heaters and Lights

Line your patio with sleek, modern torches like the Mesa Torch, a backyard torchlight that runs on fluid. It’s a durable, stainless-steel torch made with the famous Solo Stove design, similar to Mesa’s. The weather-resistant steel is painted a semi-matte black to blend seamlessly into any backyard scene. You can choose between two configurations: tall and short. So, your Mesa Torch can light your fence line or be at eye level when you’re sitting around the fire pit.

The Mesa Torch has a giant wick, integrated fuel canister and a bezel that fits the snuff cap perfectly for easy extinguishing. Plus, the torch will keep an oversized flame for up to five hours on a single fill. I like to fill mine with a bug-repelling torch fluid to keep mosquitos at bay during the summer.

If you’re looking for something to provide a little more warmth than light, the Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater is a pellet-fueled heater that keeps you warm in colder weather. Like the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 fire pit, it is smokeless. It has about a 10-foot heating radius, so it’s perfect for small to mid-sized patios during chilly (but not freezing) temperatures.

The Tower Patio Heater’s hopper box holds about 25 pounds of pellets, and a full hopper box should produce about three hours of warmth. It’s perfect if you want a patio heater that doesn’t use propane. Pellets are generally easier to store and lighter in weight than firewood. They’re also typically less expensive than propane and don’t pose the same combustion risks as propane tanks.

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Mesa Torch

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$79.99 at Amazon

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Tower Patio Heater

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Furniture 

Once your fire pit area is ready to go, you’ll need seating to kick back and enjoy the crackling flames. Solo Stove is one step ahead. Its sister brand, TerraFlame, has a line of weatherproof outdoor furniture, including the 1903 Adirondack modern chair. It combines the classic, timeless design of an Adirondack with new, lightweight outdoor materials. The chair is made of an eco-friendly composite made partially from recycled plastics.

While the chair’s materials are resistant to corrosion, the chair is also less prone to chipping and peeling than a chair made of wood. With this Solo Stove chair, you won’t have to worry about snagging clothes or blankets on splinters.

Terra Flame recently released new patio furniture, including coffee tables, loveseats and more. We’re currently assembling and testing the new furniture for review.

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

1903 Adirondack Chair

Shop at TerraFlame

FAQ 

What is the point of a Solo Stove?             

Solo Stove fire pits are designed to promote airflow, which creates a more efficient burn with less smoke. They are also portable, so you can sit around the fire anywhere, and help contain the mess (and sometimes unpredictable nature) of a traditional backyard bonfire.

Can a Solo Stove be used on a deck?

Solo Stove fire pits can be used on a wood deck but this requires careful attention. If the fire pit is not properly elevated and insulated or if it’s misused, the deck can be charred or caught on fire.

You should never leave your Solo Stove fire pit (or any fire pit) unattended on a combustible surface, even while cooling down.

Do Solo Stoves get hot on the outside?

Yes! The outside of Solo Stove fire pits gets very hot, so please be cautious.

Can Solo Stove be used indoors?

You should never use a Solo Stove fire pit indoors, not even the Mesa. It is for outdoor use only, so please do not try to use it indoors at your kitchen table. You can, however, use it on outdoor dining tables and end tables.

TerraFlame’s S’mores Bowl uses smoke-free gel fuel and can be used indoors on a table or counter for easy, inside marshmallow roasting.

Why You Should Trust Us

Family Handyman Shopping Editor Mary Henn is an expert in outdoor trends. For almost two years, she’s been tracking and testing Solo Stove products through her Solo Stove review series, which is continuously expanding to include various products from the brand.

She’s spent hours extensively testing everything from the brand’s fire pits to pizza ovens, backyard heaters, patio furniture and more. While Solo Stove is known for churning out quality backyard and fire pit products, Mary tests every product she can get her hands on to ensure that the brand’s quality lives up to the hype. That way, you can make consumer-informed decisions based on real-life testing before you buy.

The Bottom Line 

If you’re looking for a well-made, stainless steel backyard fire pit, Solo Stove’s got it. The brand manufactures quality products and thoughtful accessories like s’mores kits, popcorn makers, gloves and so much more. Like many top-tier fire pit brands, some of their products are pricey, but you pay for a fire pit that will be the center of backyard family gatherings for years to come.

Solo Stove’s Mesa fire pit starts at $80, while its smallest ground fire pit, the Ranger, retails for $200. Our favorite, the best-selling Bonfire fire pit, sells for $250, while the brand’s largest fire pit, the Canyon, is $700. Best of all, many Solo Stove accessories are available to elevate your backyard fire pit experience, making Solo Stove unique. The brand offers free standard shipping with a purchase of $99 or more and frequently runs sales and deals sitewide.

The post Solo Stove Reviews: We Tested Just About Everything on the Website appeared first on Family Handyman.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

From the sandy scrub forests of South Florida to the desert terrain of New Mexico to the 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado, my Altra Lone Peak hiking boots have successfully taken me everywhere I’ve wanted to go—and I plan for them to continue taking me places until I bust a hole through the toe box. (Which, at more than 200 miles, hasn’t happened yet.)

The Altra Lone Peak hikers are wildly flexible, capable of moving with your foot through the entirety of each stride, from toe-off to foot strike. When I’m in my Altra hiking boots, it’s as if I can almost feel the earth beneath my feet; as if I’m hiking barefoot. This checks out, as the Altra Lone Peak hikers are zero-drop hiking boots with an ultra-wide footbed that allows for maximum toe splay.

As much as I love them, I must point out that they aren’t for everyone. If you’ve never worn zero-drop shoes before, it would be a bad idea to buy these and take them out for a hike right away. Individuals accustomed to more cushioned shoes with a substantial heel-to-toe drop should take their time adjusting to the zero-drop style to avoid pain and discomfort.

That said, if you’re anything like me, once you get used to these boots, you’ll never go back. They drain exceptionally well thanks to the breathable construction (I can’t speak for the waterproof version, because I don’t own them); the deep outsole lugs grip slippery terrain like shale and slate; and the extended heel clip provides extra stability with each foot strike.

As these boots are some of the best hiking gear, you can read more about the specifications, pros and cons of the Altra Lone Peak hikers in my full Altra Lone Peak hiking boot review.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Socks

Darn Tough Micro Crew Hiking Socks

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I thought Darn Tough was off its rocker for charging $25 and higher for socks until I slipped my feet into a pair of these magical, slipper-like, sweat-wicking, warmth-giving socks. Yes, they are all of the above and more, because they are made of mystical Merino wool, a fabric that makes me think wizardry must be real.

In temperatures ranging from 10 degrees to 100, Darn Tough socks have kept my feet not too cold, not too warm, but just right. I currently own three pairs of the Darn Tough Micro Crew socks and I’d own four if a dryer hadn’t eaten one. Sigh.

These socks are available in three weights (lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight) and two cushioning options (cushion and full cushion). I’m particularly fond of the midweight, full cushion option, especially for logging a lot of miles through various climates (for instance, starting in 60-degree weather at the trailhead and being met with 40-degree weather at the summit).

For the best hiking gear, I recommend the Micro Crew height, because they sit just above the collar on most hiking boots, preventing any rub from the boot. However, the hiking socks are also available in full crew, boot, quarter crew, and no-show options.

If, after reading all of these great things about Darn Tough socks, you’re still hesitant to spend that much on a pair of socks, you should know that they are backed by an unconditional lifetime warranty. If your Darn Tough socks rip, tear, or otherwise fail, you can send them back to Darn Tough and the company will send you a new pair free of charge. Darn Tough uses the returned socks to understand what went wrong and improve their products moving forward.

Related: Garmin inReach Mini 2

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best GPS Hiking Watch

Garmin Forerunner 945/955/965

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A GPS device is essential for hikers who hike solo, partake in cross-country (off-trail) hiking, hike to remote locations without cellular service or otherwise tend to find themselves in situations in which turn-by-turn directions might be required.

I recommend the Garmin Forerunner smartwatch series, which serves as both a highly capable fitness tracking device and a full-fledged GPS and mapping tool. I wear the Garmin Forerunner 935.

With the Garmin Forerunner 945/955/965, you can create routes with Garmin Courses or send routes to your Garmin watch via AllTrails once your AllTrails account is synced with your Garmin Connect account. When you download a route onto your watch, you can get turn-by-turn directions during your hike.

In addition to turn-by-turn directions, the Forerunner series also offers full-color mapping, round-trip routing, ClimbPro ascent planning and LiveTrack, a feature that allows you to share your real-time location with other people for safety.

What I love about this watch, though, is that it’s not just a hiking watch. If you participate in other active hobbies, including running, cycling, swimming, lifting weights, using cardio machines or doing HIIT workouts, the Garmin Forerunner smartwatch can track those, too.

Garmin does have “adventure watches” that are a bit more rugged and geared specifically toward hiking, but I think they may be a bit overkill for the average recreational hiker. We don’t all need enhanced topographic mapping, satellite imagery and access to the worldwide aeronautical database. (That’s just a smidge of what the Garmin tactix 7 watch offers if you were wondering.)

Related: Garmin inReach Mini 2

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Pants

Coalatree Trailhead Pants

Shop on Coalatree Organics

If you’re into hiking at all, and you haven’t seen the Coalatree Trailhead Pants on Instagram yet, I’d be very, very surprised. These hiking pants are all the rage and have been for months—and that shows in how hard they are to get. I was lucky enough to snag a pair in the beautiful Rust color, and I’ve been trying to get my hands on another pair (or three or four…) since the moment I finished my first hike.

Normally, I would try not to send my readers to a product that is often out of stock or available for pre-order only. But I would be wrong to lead you astray. Are there other excellent hiking pants available? Yes, there are, such as the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants, of which I own two pairs. But are there better hiking pants available? I truly don’t think so.

The Coalatree Trailhead Pants are 88% ripstop nylon and 12% spandex with four-way stretch, making them both highly abrasion-resistant (hello, bushwhacking) and spectacularly stretchy (hi, rock scrambling). They have deep pockets on each thigh that can fit an entire 16-ounce water bottle and a buttoned pocket on each hiney cheek. The antimicrobial fabric keeps sweaty smells at bay better than any other hiking pants I own, and it’s also water-repellent.

These pants are very breathable, making them the best hiking gear for warm weather. I recommend wearing a pair of leggings or long johns underneath them for winter hiking. I hiked to Guadalupe Peak (the highest point in Texas, located in Guadalupe National Monument) with a 6-degree trailhead start and 18-degree summit wearing the Trailhead Pants over a pair of Girlfriend Collective Compressive Leggings and my legs didn’t feel cold at all.

Additionally, the Coalatree pants are sized inclusively, without men’s or women’s labeling. They are simply available in sizes extra-small to 2XL and slim and regular fit. I fervently believe these are the best all-around hiking pants available today, with the only downside being that they are hard to get.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Hat

Columbia Bora Bora Booney Hat

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My Bora Bora Booney hat tags along with me for almost every hike, unless I know I’m going to be walking through a shaded canyon for most of the route. Even in winter, the sun can be brutal, and a wide-brimmed hat is key to protecting your face and neck simultaneously.

This Columbia hat is lightweight and adjustable, featuring mesh detailing for breathability and two adjustment points: the chinstrap and toggle at the back of the head. The sun is no match for its UPF 50 rating and 3-inch brim.

Made of 100% nylon, the Bora Bora Booney hat wicks sweat quickly, and the darker underside of the brim prevents sweat stains from showing prominently. This is a simple and easy way to protect your eyes, face, and neck from the sun while hiking.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Backpack

Osprey Skarab 30 Hiking Pack

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I splurged on the Osprey Skarab 30-liter hiking backpack when, after a could’ve-gone-really-wrong scenario on a solo hike in remote Utah, I realized that my then-current day pack didn’t have enough carrying capacity for long hikes in hot weather, especially if I was bringing my pup along.

After I miraculously got un-lost and recovered from a serious bout of dehydration, I went straight to the nearest REI and bought this pack: One that can carry 2.5 liters of water in a water bladder, with room for additional water bottles for my dog, and sufficient carrying capacity for ample food (human and dog).

The Osprey Skarab also has ample organizational components that make it easy to carry essential safety and wellness items. A satellite phone clips to the shoulder strap and there’s a bear spray holster. Sunscreen and insect repellent fit into side pockets. Lip balm, pain reliever, blister kit and an anti-venom device drop right into the two hip pockets. A mosquito net and emergency blanket fit in the front “shove-it” pocket.

This pack also has trekking pole attachment loops and an ice axe loop. It comes equipped with a 2.5-liter Hydrapak water bladder, with a dedicated sleeve and hydration tube port for easy sipping. The hydration bladder has a small magnet that connects to the integrated magnet on the pack’s chest strap, so the tube doesn’t fly around as you’re hiking.

The Skarab features a rucksack design with an open-mouth, top-load zip. This means the closure can be sort of annoying and floppy when the pack isn’t full, but it serves as a very voluminous lid when you’re stuffing it to the max.

All in all, after hiking with this pack for hundreds of miles, I’m pleased with my purchase. I recommend it to anyone looking for a high-capacity day pack. It’s overkill for short hikes, but I always prefer being over-prepared to the alternative.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Headlamp

Petzl Tikka Original Headlamp

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$20.92 at Amazon

Planning to start your hikes before sunrise or watch the sunset at the summit? Then a headlamp is a top pick for the best hiking gear. I recommend the Petzl Tikka headlamp, which has been around for more than 20 years. I’ve had my Petzl Tikka since 2018 and it still works like a charm.

This simple but useful headlamp puts out up to 350 lumens, with three levels of white light and two red light (static and blinking) functions. It operates with just one button and features a tilting plate, so you can avoid blinding passers-by but still see the ground in front of you.

With a water-resistance rating of IPX4, the Petzl Tikka is not completely waterproof but can stand up to the rain you might encounter while hiking or camping. Don’t submerge it. The adjustable headband is soft and detachable, so you can remove the electronic portion and wash the band if it gets sweaty or dirty.

The Petzl Tikka functions on three AAA batteries, or you can purchase the compatible CORE rechargeable battery if you prefer a rechargeable option.

There are certainly some more robust headlamp options and an ultralight backpacker might scoff at the 94-gram weight of the Petzl Tikka. However, for most hikers, this simple and comfortable headlamp will more than suffice.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hiking Fanny Pack

REI Co-op Trail 5 Waist Pack

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My newest obsession, the REI Co-op Trail 5 Waist Pack, is a large fanny pack with multiple pockets, including a water bottle pocket and a secret valuables pocket. It’s designed to be worn in the back, resting on your lumbar region, but I prefer to wear it in front, kind of off to one side, for easier access to my gear.

The 5-liter carrying capacity of this large waist pack accommodates my second camera lens, a 20-ounce water bottle, cell phone, headlamp, small first aid items, lip balm, small sunscreen stick, snacks, car keys and ID. It even has compression straps that allow you to minimize the size of the pack and/or clip on extra gear like a small towel.

Made of ripstop nylon, the Trail 5 Waist Pack is water-repellent and abrasion-resistant, yet lightweight at 9 ounces. It’s the best hiking gear for short hikes or for increasing your carrying capacity on longer excursions.

Amanda Capritto for Family Handyman

Best Hands-Free Dog Leash for Hiking

Nathan Hands-Free Dog Leash With Waist Belt

$65.49 at Amazon

If you like to go hiking with your pup, a hands-free dog leash is a must. I picked up the Natahn Hands-Free Dog Leash with Runner’s Waistpack a year or so ago, and I use it every time I hike or walk with my dog. It clips to my fanny pack or backpack, with the clip on the opposite end attached to my dog’s collar.

I searched far and wide before deciding on this collar because I specifically wanted one shorter than the standard 6 feet. A 6-foot or even 4-foot leash attached at my waist is far too long and tangles up in my dog’s legs as she runs—and that doesn’t end well for anyone involved.

This leash is 3 feet in length and allows my dog enough leeway to adjust as needed, but doesn’t have so much slack it gets in the way. The included waist belt features a side-to-side glide for the leash, which is a nice touch. I typically just attach this leash to my usual hiking fanny pack or the waist strap on my backpack and find that it’s still long and adjustable enough thanks to the bungee design.

After more than a year of using the leash regularly, it’s still holding up perfectly and shows no signs of wear, other than the fact that the bright pink color is muted due to a few (or more) layers of dirt.

Heads up: This product includes a waist belt, not a waist pack, meaning it does not have carrying capacity. You can always clip the leash to a waist pack you already have, but if you need a waist pack, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

What to Look for When Buying Hiking Gear

Safety and comfort are paramount during hiking adventures, even short excursions. It’s impossible to be over-prepared, but always possible to be under-prepared, especially if you are hiking alone. Here are a few things to consider for the best hiking gear.

Clothing

For clothing, look for a relaxed fit with enough stretch to comfortably and freely move all of your limbs through a full range of motion. This means some inclusion of elastane (often as spandex or Lycra) is essential. Abrasion-resistant fabrics like nylon are ideal for pants and shorts, and durable water-repellent (DWR) treatment is a must for wet-weather hikes. For tops, I typically recommend something soft but breathable and moisture-wicking, such as a blend of merino wool and elastane.

Hiking Boots

For hiking boots, the ideal fit is flexible in the forefoot but secure around the heel and ankle. An extended crash pad is key for added stability, and depending on the conditions, you’ll want an upper that is either breathable and quick to drain (like knit mesh) or waterproof. Deep outsole lugs are necessary for slippery terrain. Heel-to-toe drop is preferential. A more minimal drop and low stack height allow you to feel what’s underfoot, but a higher drop with more cushion is more comfortable for many people.

Hiking Packs

When it comes to the best hiking gear packs—daypacks, backpacking packs, and waist packs—the most important thing is that the pack comfortably fits you and has the carrying capacity for what you need. It’s best to go in-store and try them on. You can always order online after finding one you like. If you hike a lot of trails with widely varying distances, as I do, you may end up with more than one pack to suit different excursions.

Electronics

For electronics, such as GPS devices and satellite phones, ensure that the battery life is adequate for the types of adventures you plan to take. A watch that only lasts three hours in GPS mode, for instance, won’t be of much help on a six-hour hike. It’s always a good idea to carry a portable charger or small power bank, too.

Why You Should Trust Us

I use every piece of gear that appears in this guide on a near-daily basis. I hike multiple times per week, with my excursions ranging from established trails and National Parks to (permitted) cross-country expeditions in wilderness areas. I’ve been hiking for years and have worn my way through multiple pairs of boots, pants and shorts. I’ve tried gear from dozens of brands and have learned lessons about proper hiking gear the hard way.

My hiking hobby began like most people’s: without any clue of what I was doing or how to prepare for it. Over nearly a decade, my love for this hobby has grown tremendously, and over time, I’ve invested in the best hiking gear to keep myself safe, comfortable and confident on the trail. Now, as a hiking- and outdoors-focused fitness coach, I even coach others to prepare for longer, tougher hikes, from beginners to advanced enthusiasts.

I recognize that gear preferences are highly preferential, but my top picks come from recognizable, reputable brands with a solid history of quality product production and strong warranties—because good hiking gear is designed to get beat up.

How We Found the Best Hiking Gear

FAQ

What kind of clothing is best for a hike?

The best clothing for hiking depends entirely on the season and weather. For warm weather, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing with a UPF rating of at least 30 is ideal. For overgrown trails, wear long pants made of an abrasion-resistant fabric like nylon. Winter calls for warmer, heavier fabrics like wool and fleece. Rainwear is also essential. In all cases, some form of stretch is appreciated, so look for spandex, elastane or Lycra.

What not to take on a hike?

In my potentially controversial opinion, I think it’s hard to be over-prepared for a hike, especially when going solo. Even if you don’t end up needing everything you take, it is highly possible to encounter another hiker who didn’t bring enough water, food, sun protection, insect repellent or something else.

Even then, what to pack and what not to pack is a highly variable topic, considering different hike lengths and conditions call for different essentials. An ultralight hiker will have a different opinion about what’s essential for a given hike than someone willing to carry additional items for fun or comfort.

That being said, there are some things you don’t need to bring. For one, don’t bring any extra clothing that the forecast doesn’t call for. If you’re going hiking during the dry season in Arizona and there’s a 0% chance of rain, you don’t need to bring a rain shell “just in case.” If you’re not staying overnight, you don’t need a cot or a sleeping bag.

Check the detailed weather forecast, estimate the number of hours you’ll need to complete the hike, review the terrain and altitude changes, download the trail map and read reviews of the trail.

What gear do I need for a multi-day hike?

For a multi-day hike, you’ll need sturdy hiking boots, a large backpack, a sleeping bag, shelter (tent or hammock), layered clothing, cooking supplies, food, water filtration, navigation tools, a first-aid kit and safety gear like a personal locator beacon.

What should I pack for a day hike in cold weather?

For a cold-weather day hike, pack moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated mid-layer, a waterproof outer layer, gloves, a hat, warm socks and sturdy boots. Don’t forget food, water, a headlamp, navigation tools and a small first-aid kit.

The post The Best Hiking Gear, According to a Hiking Enthusiast and Coach appeared first on Family Handyman.

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

If you’re a long-time Yeti fan, it’s probably no surprise that this Yeti soft cooler ranks at the top of my list. To cut to the chase, Yeti’s ice retention is unbeatable. Couple that with Yeti’s sleek cooler designs, quality materials and endless cooler accessories, and it’s no surprise why Yeti is the best overall.

If you’re wondering why I’ve listed the M15 Tote over the Hopper Flip, it boils down to personal preference. I prefer the look and feel of a tote-shaped cooler over a box-shaped one. However, they’re virtually the same cooler regarding ice retention and construction materials.

The Yeti soft coolers keep things cold the longest (I’ve tested a few, including Yeti hard coolers; the M12 Backpack made this list, too). The ice stayed intact after 24 hours with no noticeable melting, and after 40 hours, the contents were still cold. Typically, soft coolers cannot keep contents cold as long as hard coolers, but Yeti soft coolers make it well past the 24-hour mark.

The M15 Tote is the newest addition to Yeti’s Hopper Soft Cooler line, and it’s made with MagShield, which means magnets sit at the opening and make the cooler easy to open and close. The heavy-duty magnets lock in the cold and roll down so the whole cooler buckles shut for an added layer of protection. Additionally, the cooler’s fabric is incredibly durable and UV-resistant. The M15 can fit 32 12-ounce cans (without ice), while the larger M30 can hold 42 cans (without ice).

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Backpack

Yeti M12 Backpack Soft Cooler

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It should be no surprise that my favorite backpack cooler is also from Yeti. The M12 Backpack Soft Cooler is a tad smaller than the M15 Tote, but they have the same shape, appearance, capabilities and features. In fact, the only notable differences are the size and carrying straps.

The M12 Backpack also has the same MagShield opening that says open while loading and unloading the cooler and snaps closed when pushed shut. The magnets create a leak-resistant shield, which means your back won’t get wet no matter where you’re taking it or how long you’re hauling it. The M12 Backpack also features a kangaroo side pocket for small items and a grid system for attaching small accessories. The M12 can fit up to 20 12-ounce cans (without ice), and the larger M20 can hold 36 cans (without ice).

If you’re deciding between the M15 Tote and the M12 Backpack, you’re really choosing between two carrying styles. Do you want backpack shoulder straps or a single shoulder strap with top handles? As I said, I came to prefer the tote design for short trips and dinner parties. But if you plan on hiking with your cooler, I’d go with the backpack.

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Compact

BruMate MagPack Soft Cooler

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Made for on-the-go adventures, the new MagPack Soft Cooler from BruMate is lightweight. Similar to the Yeti soft coolers, it has a magnetic lid instead of a zipper top to seal in the cold, and its soft outer shell is waterproof and puncture-proof. This small but mighty cooler keeps things cold for 24 hours and sometimes longer.

The BruMate MagPack comes in three sizes: 12-can, 18-can and 24-can. The two smaller sizes have shoulder straps, while the largest size is designed as a backpack. The largest weighs under eight pounds, and the smallest weighs six pounds. BruMate soft coolers can be a bit heavier than other soft coolers I’ve tested, but that’s a small tradeoff for its compact design and cooling capabilities.

The smallest 12-can cooler fits most of my daily needs and is perfect for medical supplies or baby food. As I mentioned, many soft coolers won’t last a day and a half before their inner contents become melted or soggy. With this cooler, contents remained cold to the 48-hour mark. I found that it has a similar ice retention rate to Yeti’s soft coolers. However, if you need items to stay frozen or extra cold for more than a day, I’d recommend repacking the ice (or refreezing ice packs) at the 24-hour mark.

I’ve had the Brumate MagPack the longest of all my soft coolers. It’s been dropped, slammed into objects and squished by car doors. It honestly still looks new, and its shape has remained unaltered. This is my favorite soft cooler for small items that need cooling. It also works great as an oversized lunchbox for long jobs and day trips.

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Large-Capacity

HydroFlask 20L Carry Out Soft Cooler Pack

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If you need to haul (and keep cool) tall bottles of wine or other long items, this is the soft cooler for you. The Hydro Flask 20L Carry Out Soft Cooler Pack has an impressive capacity for its size. I fit 2 full bags of ice in it during testing! The easy-access hinge top makes dumping in ice, loading and unloading easy, too—perhaps easier than any other soft cooler I tested.

The Hydro Flask soft cooler has super lightweight insulation, plus padded back and shoulder straps for comfortable carrying. Its lightweight body is easy to carry, durable and water-resistant, but its lighter insulation means shorter ice retention. Still, it keeps things cold for up to 24 hours. I also got it to keep a bag of ice for 48 hours, but most of the ice had melted by then. So, while it may keep items cold past 24 hours, it will likely not keep them frozen.

This soft cooler has generous stretch pockets for water bottles and other items. Since it holds large items, it would be the perfect portable backpack cooler for tailgating. Weighing a little over 2 1/2 pounds, it is also the most comfortable to carry. I’d opt for a darker color; the trillium (light pink) got dirty very easily.

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Budget

RTIC Soft Pack Cooler

Shop at RTIC

If you’re looking for a large soft cooler that’s under $100, then the RTIC Soft Pack Cooler might be your match (in the 12- or 20-can size). In my opinion, it’s also one of the best-looking coolers of the bunch. I snagged the limited-edition snapdragon color, which is a mauve pink in person, and it’s beautiful. I hope they bring the color back permanently.

The RTIC Soft Pack Cooler is built to float, so it’s perfect for float trips, swimming and fishing. It comes in 12-, 20-, 30- and 40-can sizes and a handful of colors, which seem to change frequently. It’s also durable and lightweight. RTIC says the cooler keeps contents cold for two days, which is true, but it doesn’t keep ice for two days. The cooler held ice for 16 hours, but the ice had melted significantly by the 24-hour mark. By day two, the ice was almost completely melted. Still, this soft cooler would be perfect for a day out on the boat (assuming you’re not out for more than 12 hours or so).

I will say that the tight zipper seal, though sometimes hard to open, does keep water from getting into the cooler when thrown into the pool. It also didn’t stain or get scratched outdoors and is easy to clean. (This cooler and the BruMate MagPack were the easiest to clean.) One other cool feature is that you can personalize the RTIC soft cooler with text, monograms, images and other designs, so you can pick your cooler out from the crowd.

Months of Product Testing Coolers

Our shopping editor, Mary Henn, has spent the last year and a half testing different soft and hard coolers on and off. Earlier this year, she began testing soft coolers like the BruMate MagPack. In response to our readers’ increased interest in coolers, she tested as many soft coolers as possible. That led to months of cooler testing, culminating in this list, just in time for football season.

Currently, Mary is testing more coolers and related items, including the best cooler accessories. That way, you can make consumer-informed decisions based on real-life testing before you buy.

How a Power Outage Helped Me Find the Best Soft Coolers

My search for the best soft coolers began at the start of summer. With trips planned and pool days ahead, I knew I’d have ample opportunity to test coolers. However, I did not anticipate what would happen at the end of summer. Long story short, we lost power for more than three days due to an electrical fire caused by a storm. Naturally, we had just stocked our deep freezer, and I was worried we’d lose hundreds of dollars in frozen food. When I realized it would be days before power was restored, I loaded up every cooler I had handy with our most expensive foods and drove to our nearest relative, who had plenty of freezer space.

That unplanned cooler testing proved that the most well-insulated coolers can keep food cold even without ice added. I filled the Yeti coolers with frozen meat, and it remained frozen for the hour-long drive; the interiors of the coolers were chilled from the blocks of meat, too. Of course, I did additional testing with ice, overnight tests, durability tests and more to evaluate the performance of each soft cooler.

FAQ

Are soft-sided coolers any good?

Yes! They’re typically lighter, more compact and therefore more portable than hard coolers or battery-powered coolers. So, they’re perfect for day trips, going to the pool, packing a picnic or keeping items cold on the way home from the grocery store.

What coolers are as good as Yeti?

Regarding impressive ice retention, BruMate soft coolers are on par with Yeti soft coolers. I’ve found that RTIC coolers don’t hold ice quite as well, but they sell for less money. If you don’t need to keep things cold or frozen for more than 24 hours, RTIC is a solid choice.

Are RTIC soft coolers as good as Yeti?

The RTIC soft cooler listed above has many great features: it floats in water, it’s portable, and it’s lightweight, to name a few. However, if ice retention is your main concern, RTIC soft coolers don’t compare to Yeti soft coolers.

The post The 5 Best Soft Coolers, According to Our Editor After Months of Testing appeared first on Family Handyman.

You’re probably familiar with—or have at least heard of—Arctic Zone, the brand that makes reliable and affordable lunch bags and soft coolers. But you might be less familiar with Titan Pro Outdoor Gear, which makes rotomolded hard and welded coolers. Arctic Zone, Titan by Arctic Zone and Titan Pro Outdoor Gear are all brands of the same company. Titan Pro is Arctic Zone’s luxury brand and offers quality, hard-shell coolers with standout features.

When we heard Titan Pro was launching a roto hard cooler, we knew we’d need to test it to see how it performs. Ahead, read our unfiltered review of the all-new Titan Pro cooler.

What is the Titan Pro 25Q Roto Hard Cooler?

Arctic Zone designed the Titan Pro 25 Quart Roto Cooler to hold ice for days. Its rotomolded construction is incredibly durable and offers high-performance insulation. The rugged exterior features heavy-duty, easy-open latches, plus a dual-grip drain tethered to the inside so you don’t lose it. It also features an adjustable shoulder strap that converts to a handle so you can carry it in whichever way is most comfortable.

It comes with the Ice Saver performance booster, a thermal cover that sits over the cooler’s contents to reduce ice melt by keeping warm air off of it. The cooler’s freezer-grade gasket helps keep contents cold longer, too, with an impressively tight seal. Additionally, the cooler’s hard plastic shell inhibits the growth of bacterial odors and stains, so it’s easy to clean.

The 25Q Roto Hard Cooler comes in three neutral colors (tan, gray and white), and it has features we’ve never seen before in all of our days of cooler testing.

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

Titan Pro 25Q High Performance Roto Hard Cooler

The perfect cooler for any outdoor activity, even at night thanks to the integrated interior light.

$275 at Amazon

Features We’ve Never Seen Before

The Titan Pro 25Q Roto Cooler has a capacity of 25 quarts (as is in the name) and weighs just over 19 pounds when empty. It’s not just another rotomolded cooler, though: It boasts a few features we haven’t seen in any other ice chests we’ve tested.

Integrated Interior Light

Okay, this cooler has one of the coolest (pun intended) features we’ve seen: an interior light! That’s right, make nighttime fishing and camping easier with this cooler’s waterproof, removable LED light. It turns on when the lid is opened, and you can remove it from the interior wall of the cooler to use it as a flashlight or lantern.

Bungee Gear System and Other Accessories

One of my favorite features on this cooler is the bungee system on top of the lid. It allows you to carry small packs and blankets with your food and beverages. It also has a convenient, stainless-steel bottle opener in the front outside corner. Multiple tie-down slots, anti-skid foot pads and padlock compatibility add security to your adventure.

Superior Ice Retention

Regarding ice retention, Titan Pro claims the cooler can hold ice for more than six days if it’s 100% full of ice and packed with the Ice Saver performance booster. But let’s be honest: How often do you haul a cooler of just ice? When half-full of ice and half-full of food or drink, the cooler is said to hold ice for three days (four with the Ice Saver performance booster). If that’s the case, the Titan Pro cooler rivals other popular hard coolers from brands like Yeti in terms of ice retention.

Microban®

For hunters and anglers–and, honestly, anyone concerned with keeping their cooler odor-free–Arctic Zone included Microban technology in the construction of this ice chest. It inhibits the growth of bacteria, which can cause odors and stains. This is an especially great feature for those hauling raw meat or fish in their cooler.

IP65 Waterproof and Dustproof Rating

This cooler holds a rating of IP65, meaning it’s impervious to dust and solid foregin objects, as well as protected against water jets. So, no worries if you’re out at the beach and rain starts to fall, or if your kayak paddle splashes water onto the cooler.

We tested all its features to see if the claims were valid.

How We Tested It

When I unboxed the Titan Pro 25Q Roto Hard Cooler, I was seriously impressed with its overall design. I opted for the driftwood tan color, which is a light beige in person, and I love it. I immediately noticed from the design that the high-performance cooler is made for the outdoors: Its heavy-duty latching system and bungee top clue you in to this. However, I also appreciated the built-in bottle opener and shoulder strap, which make the versatile cooler great for game days and day trips.

I audibly gasped when I opened the cooler and discovered the interior light, which turns on when the lid is lifted. Coincidentally, I opened the cooler for the first time at night, and the LED light completely illuminated the cooler’s interior—no batteries or switches necessary. The cooler light up right out of the box. This is one of my all-time favorite features I’ve seen in a cooler, and it would be very handy for nighttime fishing, camping overnight or tailgating in the evening after the sun goes down.

I also noticed the secure latches and tight seal right away. Ensuring your cooler latches properly and has a tight seal helps with ice retention. Some coolers can be difficult to open, close and latch, but the Titan Pro cooler is easy to flip open and snap shut, which is essential when trying to get food and drinks out quickly.

To test the cooler’s durability and ice retention, I packed it for a weekend getaway with my family. The cooler stayed sealed shut while moving around in the back of my Subaru, and nothing leaked from the top or drain plug. No condensation appeared anywhere on the outside of the cooler. For the trip, I packed the cooler with two bags.

In other words, I packed it about 3/4 of the way with ice cubes. I could fit eight beverages and a few baggies full of fruits and veggies comfortably, but I could have fit more if I had used less ice. The ice remained intact, and the cooler’s contents stayed cold effortlessly after two days of being in 70+ degree weather. By the third day, about half of the ice was still intact and half of the ice had melted and pooled in the bottom of the cooler.

Some of the ice probably would have lasted longer, but I emptied and unpacked the cooler after returning home and finding the ice half-melted. I recommend using block ice or reusable ice packs for longer-lasting ice to avoid this. Additionally, ice packs won’t melt, and cooler contents won’t get wet and soggy.

While I think the 25-quart size is perfect for road trips, tailgate parties and days at the beach, I’m not sure this size is big enough to hold more than what you’d need for a day or two. Of course, that depends on how much ice you use, what you pack and how many people you’re packing for. I recommend sizing up to the 55-quart cooler if you want it to hold food and beverages for more than a couple of people or more than a couple of days.

Why You Should Trust Us

Shopping Editor Mary Henn is an expert product tester at Family Handyman. She has tested hundreds of products, including hard and soft coolers from leading brands like Yeti, BruMate, HydroFlask, Oyster, RTIC and more. Mary has extensive experience with the best coolers and often puts them through rigorous tests to compare them. (Check out her comparison of the Oyster Tempo Cooler vs. the Yeti Roadie.) When testing outdoor gear like coolers, she considers performance, quality, added features and overall value.

FAQ

Is Titan as good as Yeti?

Truthfully, I found that the Titan Pro cooler had more built-in features (light, bungee strips, bottle opener, etc.) than other brands I’ve tested, and its ice retention was comparable to Yeti coolers. However, Yeti has tons of additional accessories you can add to your cooler (at a price, of course) and more styles and colors of coolers. Yeti also has a number of durable and useful non-cooler items, like the Yeti Loadout Go Box.

How long does ice last in the Titan cooler?

According to the website, the Titan Pro Roto Hard Cooler will hold ice for around six days if it is 100% full of cubed ice. If it is 66% full, it will hold ice for 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 days; if it is 50% full, it will hold ice for 3-4 days. (This swamp cooler hack can help keep the contents of your ice chest colder for longer.)

What Others Have to Say About the Titan Pro Cooler

Other reviews talk about how handy the built-in light is, especially without a headlamp or phone nearby. Additionally, people talk about the cooler’s impressive ice retention and how its size is perfect for quick weekend getaways. It’s great if you have limited space in your car. One reviewer even goes as far as to say it’s a game-changer in extreme weather. “The Titan Pro High Performance 25Q has been absolutely amazing keeping ice for the weekend, even when the outside of the cooler is too hot to even sit on,” says John Patrick of Phoenix, Arizona.

Titan Pro 25Q Roto Hard Cooler vs. Titan Pro Leak Proof Welded Cooler

Titan Pro manufactures two kinds of coolers: roto hard coolers and welded coolers (which are launching soon). The Welded Cooler has a more portable body with a hard liner and fabric outer shell. It also has plenty of dry cargo compartments, a tie-down compression strap, an adjustable shoulder strap and two side mesh pockets for carrying all your food and drinks for a long-haul hike.

A smart shelf fits near the top and holds bottles in place while keeping food items from getting wet and soggy. Like the Titan Pro roto hard cooler, the welded cooler has an attached stainless steel bottle opener, antimicrobial protection and high-performance insulation. However, you’ll sacrifice some other features, like a built-in light and maximum ice retention, for portability.

Final Verdict

We have not seen a better cooler for nighttime use in all our cooler testing. If you fish or camp at night, this cooler has unbeatable features. Its ice retention capabilities are on par with those of other roto hard coolers from other big brands. I would only add a set of wheels to this cooler.

When full of ice, the cooler becomes quite heavy for shoulder carrying. However, that shouldn’t be an issue if you don’t need to walk far with it. It’s ideal for keeping in the back of a truck or on a boat, and the shoulder strap/handle is excellent for carrying the cooler short distances.

Where to Buy the Titan Pro Roto Hard Cooler

MARY HENN/FAMILY HANDYMAN

I Tried It

Titan Pro 25Q High Performance Roto Hard Cooler

The perfect cooler for nighttime activites

$275 at Amazon

The Titan Pro 25Q Roto Hard Cooler is available on Amazon for $275. You can also shop the Titan Pro 55Q Roto Hard Cooler on Amazon and other products from Arctic Zone and Titan by Arctic Zone.

The post Arctic Zone Launched a Roto Molded Cooler, and We Put It to the Test appeared first on Family Handyman.

After some digging online, I found the White Duck Alpha Wall Tent, which seemed like a good solution. Still, my partner has worked with canvas for most of his life—running awning and marine canvas businesses, plus consulting for a military tent repair facility—so when it comes to buying anything made of the stuff, he balks at the quality (or lack thereof) and the price.

Even before our White Duck canvas tent was set up, his begrudging turned to enthusiasm, and he’s been trumpeting its praises ever since. It turns out we aren’t the only fans. I talked to Zena Ives, owner of Battle Creek Camping Resort in South Dakota, who relies on White Duck tents for her glamping cabins.

“From Girl Scout trips to large families who want to all stay together, the sheer size of the tent provides rave reviews,” Zena says. “In it, we have four queen beds, a dining table with chairs and a fireplace with a sitting area. This is our third White Duck tent, and we can’t wait to add more to our glampground.”

Whether you need a quick, sturdy workshop or a cozy space for any activity, White Duck canvas tents might just be the ideal choice.

What is the White Duck Alpha Wall Tent?

White Duck makes four canvas tent styles: wall, bell, scout, and cabin. Each comes in a multitude of sizes. We settled on the Alpha Wall Tent in the 12-foot-by-14-foot size, which appropriately fits our backyard space.

Our intended use for this tent was a little astray from its more popular applications, which include camping and outdoor entertaining, such as Airbnb glamping rentals, temporary hunting cabins, family campouts, backyard parties and weddings.

Because of that, we were initially unsure if it could withstand the rougher demands of a workshop. But as soon as we unboxed it and felt the quality of the canvas and sturdy frame, we were sure it was up to our task.

While our goal was a summer workshop, White Duck’s Alpha Wall canvas tents are touted for use in four seasons. They’re made to accommodate a wood stove, with a fire-resistant jack (opening) for the pipe. You can use your own stove or choose from a number of White Duck models. Other notable features include windows with bug mesh and storm protection, an extra layer of waterproof vinyl around the lower sides and guylines to secure them against the wind.

The tent arrived in two surprisingly large boxes, which, in total, weighed a hefty 200+ pounds. But overall, it was intuitive to erect, thanks to the helpful instructions. It is large and heavy, so it did take some muscling. It is a two-person job to lift the top to place the side upright poles, and then it’s a bit of a bear to lift the corner poles high enough to slide the side flaps underneath (which must be done neatly to avoid gaps in the outside).

Admittedly, there was a bit of swearing involved. Still, the expletives were mixed with understanding because we know the snug design is not a flaw but necessary to ensure a good seal and the canvas is adequately taut. It took one person about one hour to set it up, from unboxing it to driving in the final stakes, plus about 10 minutes of help from a second person.

My partner and I liked the aesthetic. It’s spacious without looking like a utilitarian box. It’s reminiscent of historic military tents or maybe something from the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s. Every morning when we come outside, we chuckle that one of these days, some reenactors might be camped out inside, ready to greet us with a cup of coffee.

KARUNA EBERL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

White Duck Alpha Wall Tent

A sturdy canvas tent from a trusted brand

Shop at White Duck

White Duck Outdoors Canvas Tent Features

• Durable 10.10 oz. Army duck cotton canvas
• Double-stitched seams with reinforced corners
• Water-repellent, mold and UV-resistant finish
• Heavy-duty frame with anodized aluminum poles
• Shock-absorbing bungee cords for weather reinforcement
• Pre-installed wood-stovepipe jack, with 5-inch and 6-inch pre-cut pattern
• PVC groundsheet made from 16 oz. polyvinyl
• Four windows with three-layer storm protection
• Bug mesh on doors and windows, which is PVC-dipped and UV-resistant
• Heavy-duty nylon guyline ropes with quick tighteners
• Six sizes, from 8’x10′ to 16’x 24′
• Upgraded “pro” version available with lighter fabric, portable AC vent, fire-repellency, second door

How We Tested It

Modifications

Our first course of action was to modify the tent’s design to fit our particular needs more comfortably. Since our model didn’t come with a back door, we cut two vertical slits to form a roll-up one, then framed out the sides of the doorway with wood to keep them from getting damaged.

For additional shelf space and wood storage, we created upper shelves on both sides by suspending a piece of plywood with a rope tied to the roof bars. It’s not the most official-looking setup, but it does seem to keep with the garrison theme, and the rigging has managed to hold whatever we’ve tossed up there.

Workshopping

Next, we filled the tent with various building materials and tools, including a chop saw, table saw, two work benches, a set of vertical shelves and a cart full of tools. Even with that load, all of the workspaces are still easy to access, and overall, it doesn’t feel cramped, thanks in part to the five-foot-high side walls and almost nine-foot ceiling peak.

As for durability, we have been trying not to let sharp wood or metal lean against the canvas, but it inevitably happens. Even when we accidentally dropped a stack of 2x4s onto one wall, they didn’t rip the canvas or create scuff marks.

The White Duck canvas tent also has some added durability features, including an internal metal wire truss above the front door to keep the tent stabilized in the wind and an extra layer of waterproof poly sewn around the bottom to keep pooling rain and splashes from mucking up the canvas.

Winds, Sun and Dust

Throughout the summer, we’ve encountered a broad spectrum of weather and other elements. We live about 7,500 feet above sea level, which means the sun blasts everything with UV rays. Three months in, the canvas shows no sign of stress or drying. Also, it reflects the sun’s heat quite well, even on the hottest days. Most of the time, it’s cooler in the tent than outside.

Ives has had similar luck with her Alpha Wall tent. “We are in a valley in the Black Hills of South Dakota, so we easily get 60 to 75 mile-an-hour winds and hail,” she says. “This tent has held up with no issues, and families who were inside during the storms all stated it kept them safe and dry and that they were impressed by the quality of the tent.”

We also get dust storms here, which come with 50+ mph winds. This is no problem for the tent, which held firm. The guylines are also made from sturdy nylon rope and include quick-tighteners, so correcting any lax lines is easy, allowing for movement.

Rain, Snow and Cold

White Duck doesn’t claim absolute waterproofness, but it hasn’t yet let in a drop of rain, even during a surprise downpour. But, in case you need more protection (like if you think it will have prolonged snow on top), the company also sells a thoroughly waterproof fly sheet for the top, which they recommend for prolonging the tent’s life by protecting it from sun damage and debris.

White Duck also sells an awning expansion for the foyer, which is meant for cooking under or storing gear. Otherwise, the tent has a nice little built-in awning overhang at the door for overhead protection.

Since the floor is a separate component, we wondered if it would allow water to seep through, but that has not happened. In fact, we feel so confident that it won’t that we’re now storing some valuable wood furniture there, too.

We haven’t yet experienced how it fares in the cold. But winter is approaching, so we’ll update this once the snow flies. Perhaps we’ll even add a wood stove to the mix to see how that works!

FAQ

Are White Duck tents waterproof?

White Duck canvas touts their tents as “water-repellent,” but even after a summer of rainstorms, ours has yet to leak or get condensation on the inside. The company also sells a fly sheet (tarp) for the top for added protection in extreme weather.

How do you clean a White Duck tent?

The company recommends regularly opening the doors and windows to vent out the tent to prevent mold and mildew. For dirt spots on the canvas, use a dry bristle brush to buff out the dirt, then a damp cloth to pat out the area. Never use bleach or other chemicals that can harm the material and protective treatments. If the tent needs heavier cleaning, soak it in mild soap and water or spray it down with a garden hose, then leave it stretched out in the sun to dry. For instructions on packing, storing, re-treating the waterproof protection and maintaining the zippers, see White Duck’s blog.

What Others Had to Say

A reviewer on Amazon who bought the 10-foot-by-12-foot Alpha Wall wrote: “We’ve had this tent up and in daily use for almost a year. It’s withstood up to 60mph winds and torrential downpours with no problems. Best tent ever!”

A reviewer for Alaska Magazine wrote of the Regatta Bell Tent, “There’s a lot I like and can say about this tent. Fun is the first word that comes to mind. Little kids love to play in tents, but the Regatta Bell was next-level fun for them. They were heartbroken when I put the tent away last fall.”

White Duck Tents vs. Kodiak Tents

The closest size Kodiak tent to our White Duck Alpha Pro 12-foot-by-14-foot is a 12-foot-by-12-foot model. It’s about half the price and weighs 75 pounds compared to White Duck’s 200 pounds. But that price and weight come with a difference in ruggedness.

White Duck vs. Kodiak stats: Anodized aluminum vs. galvanized steel; 10.1 ounces of canvas on the entire structure, vs. 10 ounces on the top and 8.5 ounces on the walls; 16-ounce polyvinyl floor vs. 13.5-ounce vinyl floor; and five external guy lines per side vs. four. Those stats may explain why White Duck tents look consistently more taught than Kodiak Tents in most photos.

A few other notable differences:

• White Duck has 5-foot-tall sides and an 8.8-foot peak, compared to Kodiak’s 5-foot walls and 7.5-foot peak. For a camping tent, the wall height might not matter much, but as a workshop, the 5-foot walls are essential to comfortably placing and using tools against the wall, such as a table or chop saw.
• White Duck’s door is a zipper with flaps that roll back and up, while Kodiak’s is more square.
• White Duck includes an awning over the doorway to protect it from the elements.
• Kodiak has one “storm” window with a pop-out awning, plus two more windows.
• White Duck can accommodate up to a 6-foot stovepipe vs. Kodiak’s 5-foot stovepipe.
• The largest Kodiak tent is 12 by 16 feet vs. White Duck’s 16 by 24 feet.
• Kodiak’s floor is sewn in; White Duck’s is separate. White Duck claims the separate floor makes cleaning and transporting it easier.
• White Duck offers a fire-repellent coating option.
• White Duck offers a secondary fly for the top for added protection.

Final Verdict

If you need a temporary workshop, White Duck’s Alpha Wall Tent is an ideal solution. It’s spacious, exceptionally sturdy against wind and rain, adaptable, quick to assemble and charming. It’s also a good choice for extended family camping trips, as well as a sheltered backyard entertainment space and even a playhouse for kids.

The only caveats are that it’s heavy and bulky to transport and takes longer than a nylon tent to set up, so it wouldn’t be suitable for a short weekend camping trip or if you have a small car. But otherwise, we can’t recommend this tent enough. Its walls are high enough to accommodate a table saw; its rafters are strong enough to hang materials from; the canvas is sturdy enough to withstand pointy objects; and the color nicely deflects the sun’s heat.

Though we were initially disappointed at not being able to build our permanent workshop this summer, the White Duck Alpha Wall tent came through in a big way, and at least for us, it has truly been the next-best solution. We can’t sing its praises enough. Once its workshop days are over, we’ll surely use it for years as a glamping tent.

Where to Buy White Duck Tents

KARUNA EBERL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

White Duck Alpha Wall Tent

Want a tent for glamping? This is the canvas tent to use.

Shop at White Duck

White Duck Alpha Wall Tents cost between $1,650 and $4,350, depending on size. They are available online directly from White Duck, as well as from Cabela’s, Walmart and Amazon.

The post We Tried the White Duck Canvas Tent, and It’s the Perfect Summer Workshop appeared first on Family Handyman.

Parks Project is a lifestyle brand passionate about park conservationism. They teamed up with Merrell, one of our favorite hiking shoe brands, to develop a new line of eco-friendly, plant-inspired outdoor gear, including shoes, socks and sweatshirts. The new, limited-edition Moab 3 x Parks Project is our favorite in the lineup.

“Our innovative collaboration with Parks Project symbolizes our dedication to sustainability, environmental stewardship and revolutionizing what is considered outdoor fashion,” says Merrell Chief Marketing Officer Pallav Tamaskar. While outdoor gear like camping storage boxes and headlamps aren’t typically designed to be fashionable, the new collaboration between Merrell and Parks Project is.

We snagged a pair of the new Moab 3 x Parks Project to see how they perform and look in person. Read on for details.

VIA MERCHANT

Product Launch

Merrell x Parks Project Moab 3

A new, eco-friendly edition of Merrell's classic Moab 3.

Shop on Merrell

What is the Merrell x Parks Project Moab 3?

The Merrell x Parks Project Moab 3 is made from mushroom biobased material, which serves as a plastic alternative. It is 100% biobased and biodegradable. National parks’ vibrant colors and tones inspire the shoe’s look. The goal is to encourage advocates to protect natural landscapes.

We’ve tested our share of Merrell hiking shoes at Family Handyman, and Merrell has collaborated numerous times with big brands. (Peep the Merrell x Jeep collab here.) Let me tell you: These are the most visually stunning pair of Merrell Moab hiking shoes we’ve seen to date. I was skeptical of how the bright hues would translate in person, but the boots are even prettier in person than they appear online.

The shoes have a tan and cream-colored base with blueish-green detailing. The sole is light turquoise on the bottom and forest green on top. Smaller color details around the lacing include a neon green and bright purple-pink hue. The shoe has two lace options: a bright orange and tan set of laces.

The shoe’s base is made of raw, undyed regenerative mushroom material designed for rugged terrain, while its body is made with recycled canvas and pineapple yarn. Even the laces, webbing and mesh lining are 100% recycled, making the shoe Merrell’s most eco-friendly Moab yet.

If you’re thinking, so the new kicks look great, but how’s the quality? The Merrell Moab 3 ranked on our list of the best hiking shoes!

Where Can I buy the Merrell and Parks Project Collection?

VIA MERCHANT

Product Launch

Merrell x Parks Project Moab 3

An all-new edition of the Merrell Moab 3, inspired by the beauty of national parks.

Shop on Merrell

To shop the Merrell x Parks Project collection, visit the collaboration’s landing page on Merrell’s website. Items from the collection range in price from $30 to $155, with the new Moabs coming in at $155.

The new Moab 3 x Parks Project comes in one plant-inspired print and unisex sizing, but sizes extend to a women’s size 16.5 (men’s 15)! They’re the perfect gift for any outdoors lover who has difficulty finding extended hiking shoe sizes.

In addition to the new hiking shoes, the collab features a botanical crew-neck sweatshirt and hiking socks. You can also find other items from the line elsewhere, like this long-sleeve shrooms t-shirt at REI and these shroom shorts at Backcountry. Urban Outfitters still has several items from the collection, like the Parks Project x Merrell Bucket Hat, but you’ll want to act fast as items from the collection are in high demand.

The post Merrell’s New Parks Project Collab Is Our Favorite Yet appeared first on Family Handyman.

When I bought a campervan in 2023 and set out on an adventure with no time limit, I knew from the start that a top-tier camp stove was high on my priority gear list. I’d gotten away with cheap, single-burner models in the past, but knowing I was going to cook my every meal outside of my van for the foreseeable future meant I had to invest in a great one.

Naturally, I turned to Coleman, because the brand is by-and-large synonymous with camping. I researched a few models and ultimately decided on the Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 camp stove, partly because it includes all of my nonnegotiable features and partly because it was available at my local Academy store.

Ahead, I share everything I love about the Coleman Cascade camp stove after using it almost daily for seven months—and the very few things I’d change about it.

What is the Coleman Camp Stove?

The Coleman Cascade camp stove is a 3-in-1 dual-burner camp stove that comes with two cooktops: a cast iron grill and a cast iron flat griddle. You can also use any other type of pot, pan, or cooktop on the cast iron cooking grate.

With 24,000 BTUs of total cooking power, the Cascade camp stove is capable of making any meal a camp meal, which is why I highly recommend it. I’ve been living in a converted camper van for seven months and plan to live in it for many more, so having a highly functional and versatile camp stove (like having good camping storage boxes and good hiking boots) is a must.

The Cascade allows me to cook most of the meals I’d cook living in a house or apartment; usually, if I choose not to cook a certain something, it’s because I don’t want to deal with the related cleanup—not because the Cascade can’t handle it.

AMANDA CAPRITTO/FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

Coleman Cascade Camping Stove

$229.99 at Amazon

Coleman Camp Stove Features

Instead of just dishing out praise for my favorite-ever camp stove, let’s look at the features so you can decide if it’s the right portable stove for you.

Propane-Fueled

The Cascade 3-in-1 stove runs on propane—and propane only. Don’t try to use it with a butane-propane mix or butane. It works with 16-ounce propane canisters, AKA the small green ones available at most outdoor stores. It is not designed to be used with larger propane tanks.

Two Burners

With two burners, you can cook your main dish and your side dish simultaneously, a luxury for any camper who has used a single-burner camp stove. The Cascade comfortably fits two 10-inch pots or pans next to each other; a 12-inch and a 10-inch pan can squeeze.

Dual Cast Iron Cooktops

The Cascade comes with both a cast iron grill cooktop and a cast iron griddle cooktop. The griddle is excellent for frying eggs, toasting bread, making quesadillas, and generally making any meal that cooks best on a flat surface. The grill is ideal for cooking meats. I’ve used it for steaks, pork chops, burgers, and kabobs.

24,000 BTUs

The stove is quite powerful, running at a maximum of 24,000 BTUs. I rarely run the stove at maximum capacity; I’ve only needed to in extremely cold temperatures (near or below freezing). For most meals, I find the low-to-medium settings sufficient.

Automatic Ignition

You won’t need a lighter handy for the Cascade 3-in-1: Flames appear at the click of the automatic igniter. In seven months of near-daily use (and often using the stove multiple times per day), I’ve had zero issues with the igniter.

Easy-Carry Handle and Regulator Storage

There’s a built-in handle on the bottom of the stove body, making it easy to carry around in one hand. The design also features built-in storage for the regulator, so it stays safe and doesn’t rattle around or get lost.

Removable Cast Iron Grate

The cast iron cooking grate on the Cascade stove comes off as a single piece, which is convenient and makes for easy access to the stove body for cleaning. However, I’ve found that the stove can still be quite hard to clean. There are several nooks and crannies that small food bits and oils can get stuck in, and the grate itself is a bit cumbersome to scrub.

Aluminum Body

The body of the stove is made of aluminum. It’s rather durable, which I learned after a gust of wind in wintery New Mexico blew down the table my stove was perched on. (No dings or malfunctions!). The aluminum is easy to wipe down, except for the parts that are hard to reach as mentioned above.

Wind Screens

When in use, the stove has three windscreens: The lid that flips up, plus two small screens that fold out to either side. These are also made of aluminum and do an okay job of blocking wind from affecting the flames. If I could ask Coleman to fix one thing in a future model of this stove, I’d ask for more robust wind protection. It’s sufficient in most cases, but in cold, windy weather, expect to be frustrated.

Flat-Fold Design

The Cascade stove folds flat when not in use. This makes it incredibly easy to store. I slide mine into the above-cab storage shelf in my van and still have room to store other things on top of and around it.

How We Tested It

I’ve been using the Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 Camp Stove for seven months at the time of writing. I use it almost daily while traveling and living out of my converted camper van. I’ve used it to make:

• Coffee (pretty much every morning)
• Hot tea and hot chocolate
• Popcorn
• Soup and gumbo
• Jambalaya
• Burgers
• Breakfast scrambles
• Burritos
• Pizza
• Steaks
• Pork chops
• Various pastas
• And probably more that I can’t remember!

In addition to using the included cast iron griddle and grill with the stove, I’ve used a 10-inch cast iron Dutch oven, nonstick pans, stainless steel pots and pans, and a ceramic-coated Dutch oven. I’ve also used the cooking surface directly to toast bread and warm tortillas.

This stove has come along with me from Miami, Florida to Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, Canada at the shore of the Arctic Ocean. It has performed exceedingly well in various weather conditions, from below-freezing temperatures to sunny and 75. I’ve also used it at altitudes ranging from sea level to above 9,000 feet, and considering the usual deviations in cooking times associated with altitude, it has exceeded my expectations.

Notably, winter winds in New Mexico once blew over the table that my Coleman stove was perched on; it took a rather hard tumble, but I never noticed any performance detriments or even cosmetic damage. (OK, so there is some cosmetic damage at this point, but not as a direct result of its perilous fall.) Ten points to Coleman for durability!

While I test a lot of gear to eventually review it, this Coleman camp stove review is happenstance. I bought the stove with my own money because I needed a good portable stove for van life, and several months after the fact, I decided I ought to review it. All that to say: You can trust that this review is the product of a genuine experience with the product.

Pros

• Two burners
• Automatic ignition (no lighter needed)
• Comes with cast iron grill and griddle
• 24,000 BTUs total cooking power
• Works with most 16-ounce propane canisters
• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Integrated storage for the fuel regulator
• Durable build
• Works well with all types of pots and pans
• Flat build is easy to store

Cons

• Average wind resistance—could be better
• Relatively heavy
• Nooks and crannies are hard to clean

FAQ

Can I hook up a 20-pound propane tank to a Coleman stove?

No, Coleman camp stoves are designed to be used with 16-ounce (1 pound) small propane tanks. There are adapters available that may allow you to use larger propane tanks with Coleman camp stoves, but it is not recommended by the manufacturer.

Is it safe to use a Coleman stove in the house?

It’s not recommended to use any propane or butane stove indoors. Coleman camp stoves are designed for use outdoors or in extremely well-ventilated areas. Burning propane gas releases carbon monoxide, a gas that can build up in the bloodstream and cause a life-threatening emergency. Follow the instructions on the owner’s manual of your Coleman camp stove to ensure you’re using it safely.

Can a Coleman stove boil water?

Yes, a Coleman stove can boil water. The Coleman Cascade camp stove is extremely efficient at boiling water. I use it almost every morning to make coffee; it boils water in a kettle in a matter of minutes. Different Coleman stoves will have different boiling times; boiling times are also affected by temperature, altitude and wind.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Customer reviews and reviews by other gear testers of the Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 Camp Stove are largely positive. Gear testers praised the Cascade for simmering efficiency, durability, and portability while criticizing the could-be-better wind resistance. Some gear testers complained about the slow boiling time, but I don’t personally agree with that; my experience has been that the stove is efficient at boiling water.

Customer reviews indicate that buyers love the Cascade for its sturdiness and durability, as well as the multifunctional cast iron cooktops and dual burners. They love that it lights easily and that the cast iron grill and griddle come with a carrying bag to keep them in good condition (and keep oil or cast iron conditioner off of other items in your cabinet).

Coleman Camp Stove vs Eureka

The Eureka Ignite is another popular automatic ignition, dual-burner camp stove. It’s strikingly similar to the Coleman Cascade—it even has a similar appearance, down to the color. The Ignite is slightly less powerful than the Cascade with 20,000 total BTUs (10,000 per burner). It also works with 16-ounce propane canisters.

Where the Eureka Ignite exceeds in performance compared to the Coleman Cascade is in wind resistance. The design of the Ignite is much more square, and the side windscreens are much larger. A friend of mine has the Eureka Ignite stove, and we’ve used it dozens of times when camping together. It most definitely blocks the wind better than the Coleman Cascade does.

One notable difference between the two stoves is the cooking grate. The Cascade features a robust cast iron cooking grate, while the Ignite features a stainless steel grate that’s lighter but slightly less stable to use, in my opinion. That is, the cast iron grate on the Cascade feels stickier (in a good way) and it’s difficult for pots or pans to slide around.

All in all, though, the cooking experience is very similar on the two stoves. You can’t go wrong with either option. If budget is a factor, the Eureka Ignite is less expensive by about $85.

Final Verdict

I highly recommend the Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 camp stove for car campers and van campers. Individuals traveling in a class A or class C RV may already have a sufficient stove inside their rig, but I’d still recommend the Cascade for outdoor cooking. After using this stove almost every day for seven months, I’ve found it to be highly capable of cooking a variety of meals, quick to boil water, and easy to use and store. I wish it had better windscreens and was easier to clean, but overall, I give it two thumbs up.

Where to Buy the Coleman Camp Stove

AMANDA CAPRITTO/FAMILY HANDYMAN

We Tried It

Coleman Cascade Camping Stove

$229.99 at Amazon

The Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 Camp Stove is available at most outdoor retailers.

The post Coleman Camp Stove Review: From a Vanlifer’s Perspective appeared first on Family Handyman.

AMANDA CAPRITTO FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

After trying dozens of trail meals from over 10 different brands, I’ve found that Backpacker’s Pantry produces the best value for the adventurer. With most entrees costing about $11 and containing more than 500 calories, Backpacker’s Pantry meals are a great bang for your buck.

There are a variety of recipes that suit many diets, including vegan diets, and account for all of the major allergens. Backpacker’s Pantry also has an explicit high-calorie collection designed for intense, multi-day excursions.

I tried three meals from Backpacker’s Pantry: The fettuccine chicken alfredo, fiesta beef and vegetable bowl, and lasagna. All three were up to par in terms of taste and texture. I didn’t experience any unusual crunching (common with chicken and beef) or otherwise unsavory textures.

The soaking time is a bit long for my liking—15 minutes compared to other brands that have soaking times of 10 minutes or less—but 5 minutes is a measly price to pay for a warm, tasty, nutritious, and filling meal. Backpacker’s Pantry meals are lightweight for the calorie content, generally weighing between 4 and 5 ounces for more than 500 calories per pouch.

Best of all, Backpacker’s Pantry strongly emphasizes sustainability and regenerative practices. The brand produces all of its meals in a Colorado-based headquarters that is 100% solar-powered and prevents nearly 128,000 pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere each year. Their meals range from $7-13 per package.

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Most Accessible Freeze-Dried Meals

Mountain House Adventure Meals

143.096% OFF$135.15 at Amazon

Mountain House is a staple in the outdoor industry and a household name among outdoorsy people. You can find Mountain House Adventure Meals in almost every retailer that sells outdoor goods, including Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, REI, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Academy and some grocery stores, which is why it’s my top pick for most accessible freeze-dried meals. As someone living on the road full-time, it’s important to me that I can quickly stop into a store on my route and grab some backpacking meals, rather than rely on online orders.

Preparation is quick, with most meals requiring less than 10 minutes of soaking, and the packaging is recyclable through TerraCycle. I love that Mountain House has a 30-year proven taste guarantee—they’re one of the only trail meal companies that has been in business long enough to prove a shelf life of such a length.

Adventurers can choose from dozens of recipes boasting some of the best seasoning and flavors across brands in my experience. I particularly like the beef lasagna, chicken and rice, beef stroganoff, and breakfast scramble. I’ve also heard great things about the freeze-dried ice cream sandwich, though I haven’t tried it myself yet.

Mountain House meals boast an excellent calorie-to-weight ratio. Some entrees weigh as little as 3.5 ounces yet contain more than 430 calories. They contain sufficient protein, averaging around 40 grams per pouch, and are very high in sodium (reaching nearly 70 percent of the daily recommended value in some cases). Depending on the weather conditions you’re hiking in, all that sodium can be a positive attribute, but is a callout for individuals watching their sodium intake.

If you’re an adventurer who prioritizes whole-food ingredients and avoids inflammatory or high-glycemic foods, note that some Mountain House recipes contain seed oils or palm oil, and many recipes contain maltodextrin and/or cornstarch. Mountain House meals range from $4-12 per package.

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Most Healthy Freeze-Dried Meals

Firepot Foods

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Firepot Foods are dehydrated, not freeze-fried, which makes them slightly different from other options in this guide. Firepot opted for dehydration over freeze-drying because they believe it helps maintain the full flavor of food and creates richer textures upon rehydrating.

After trying Firepot Foods, I wholeheartedly concur. I tried the smoky tomato paella, and it was easily one of the best trail meals I have ever tasted. In fact, it’s one of the few meals that I didn’t feel the need to add seasoning. The texture was slightly unexpected: It was reminiscent of steel-cut oats instead of rice, but it wasn’t bad. Overall, it tasted and felt much fresher than other camping meals.

To boot, Firepot Foods meals do not contain artificial ingredients or additives. Every meal’s ingredients list contains whole foods only; you won’t find palm oil, corn starch, maltodextrin, gums, or emulsifiers in Firepot pouches.

Each pouch also contains ample calories, ranging from 500 to 700, though the protein count is relatively low in many of the recipes. The paella, for example, has just 16 grams of protein per 620 calories. Still, I found the meal to be extremely satiating. I was actually unable to finish the pouch, which is unusual for me.

One thing to note is that Firepot meals tend to require substantially more water than other options. The paella requires 2.5 cups of water compared to the ¾ cup to 1.5 cups required for meals from many other brands. This may not seem like a big difference, but when you consider the weight of water for your overall pack weight—or the need to filter from natural sources—a lower water requirement for food is better. You can purchase Firepot Foods ranging from $12-14.50 per package.

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Best Freeze-Dried Meals for Backpacking

Peak Refuel

$163.99 at Amazon

If you are simply looking for high-calorie, filling trail food, look no further than Peak Refuel. These meals have the highest average calorie count I have ever encountered in all my years of trail experience and product testing: 803 calories per pouch.

Not only that, but Peak Refuel meals have an average weight of just 5.4 ounces. That’s the best calorie-to-weight ratio I’ve come across in my research and testing. Plus, they require less than 10 ounces of water on average and take 10 minutes or less to rehydrate. All that said, the pouches themselves are on the larger side despite being lightweight. They’re durable, though, so you shouldn’t have a problem folding them up to fit in your pack.

I’ve tried several Peak Refuel meals; my two favorites are the chicken pesto pasta and sweet pork and rice. The flavors are rich and the texture is palatable. I also tried the biscuits and sausage gravy, which I didn’t love. It was just kind of mushy, but I’d be willing to bet that’s the case for most rehydrated biscuits.

The taste guarantee is comparatively low—just five years—but unless you’re storing these for an emergency situation, it’s unlikely you’ll have them for that long.

At $8-16 per package, I found Peak Refuel meals to be the best bang for a backpacker’s buck. They taste good, are high in calories and contain sufficient protein and sodium to keep your body going strong on the trail.

AMANDA CAPRITTO FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Tastiest Freeze-Dried Meals

Trailtopia

$97.61 at Amazon

While I’ve had a banger of a freeze-dried meal from almost every brand, Trailtopia is the brand that, in my opinion, consistently produces the best flavors and textures. I’ve tried several entrees from the brand: beef stew, beef stroganoff, pesto pasta, chili mac, and jambalaya.

The jambalaya, of course, is not comparable to what my dad makes back home in Louisiana, but I thought it was still tasty (a significant thing to say for a girl from Creole country). The other meals—judging from a less biased position—were spot-on. I would eat the beef stroganoff on a normal day; on a trail day, it’s heaven in a waterproof pouch.

Importantly, not just the taste is great, but the texture is, too. With Trailtopia, I rarely run into a crunchy bit of beef or an uncooked piece of pasta: Follow the instructions on the pouch and you’ll have an undeniably yummy backcountry meal.

Trailtopia meals are available in single-serving and double-serving packages. For multi-day adventures, I recommend scooping up the double-serving pouches. For most people, less than 500 calories is insufficient to refuel after a trail day.

My only big callout about Trailtopia meals is that many of them require more water than meals from other brands do. For the double-serving pouches, expect to need two cups or more of water. If carrying all of your water, this will increase your pack weight; if filtering, it’ll increase filtering time compared to other meals. The Trailtopia meals range from $4-13 per pouch.

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Best Vegetarian Freeze-Dried Meals

Good-to-Go

$99.95 at Amazon

For simple, tasty dehydrated meals with plenty of vegetarian options, try Good-to-Go foods. These pouches are convenient for the backcountry and contain only whole-food ingredients: no artificial additives, colors, flavors, or otherwise artificial ingredients.

The packages are small and relatively lightweight, weighing in at about four ounces for single-serving pouches and six to seven ounces for double-serving pouches. Notably, the pouches are much flatter than those from some other brands, making it easy to slide these into smaller pockets in your pack.

If you’re heading out on a weekend trip, pick up a Weekender bundle, which includes two entrees and one breakfast for about $24. It’s a great deal for overnight backpacking trips, though you’ll likely need more food for trips that are particularly intense or hot. Otherwise, prices typically range from $6-12 per package.

The ingredients in all of the meals are minimal, featuring whole foods like quinoa, vegetables and various spices. I found that they needed a bit more seasoning, but that’s not unusual for someone who grew up eating spicy southern food.

Vegetarians will find several options to choose from, and Good-to-Go also makes a few options suitable for vegan, pescatarian and carnivore diets.

AMANDA CAPRITTO FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Organic Freeze-Dried Meals

Wild Zora

$57.99 at Amazon

Wild Zora is a woman-owned brand based in Loveland, Colorado, specializing in organic trail meals with no artificial ingredients. Almost every ingredient used across recipes is certified organic, with exceptions mainly being spices. Many of the recipes are also paleo and autoimmune protocol (AIP)-friendly.

One of my favorite characteristics of Wild Zora entrees is that they require minimal water: Most pouches only need ¾ of a cup. This is great news for hikers who are conscious of their pack weight and those who plan to filter water on trails.

I tried the harvest beef and herb roasted chicken quinoa meals, and I really loved how fresh and light they were. They’re quite low in calories for a trail meal (less than 400 per pouch), but they’d make for an excellent option in the morning or if you’re having tummy troubles but still need to get some calories down. Despite being lower in calories, these pouches still have about 20 grams of protein and about 400 milligrams of sodium (with some variation among flavors, of course).

The pouches themselves are very packable, with a net weight of just three ounces and a flat-lay design. At $8-12 per pouch, Wild Zora meals are an excellent option for trail-goers who want something light on the stomach, easy to pack, and made from wholesome ingredients.

What to Look for When Buying Freeze-Dried Meals

Choosing camping and backpacking meals is more about choosing what tastes good. If you’re putting in hours of trail time, your body needs replenishment via calories, macronutrients (carbs, fats, and protein), and micronutrients (especially sodium). Registered dietitian Michelle Routhenstein at Entirely Nourished shared some thoughts with us to help you choose the best freeze-dried meals for your adventures.

Calorie Content

Calorie needs increase with any physical activity, but trail recreation can send your calorie needs skyrocketing, especially if you’re out moving all day and plan to move continuously for multiple days.

While calorie needs are individual, Rothenstein says you can calculate your calorie needs based on factors like age, gender, weight, activity level, and duration of their outdoor adventure. In general, the more you weigh and the longer/more intense the activity, the more calories you will need.

Look for backpacking meals with a very high calorie content (more than 600 calories per pouch) if you plan on getting most of your nutrition from those meals. You can get away with lower-calorie options if you’re supplementing throughout the day with snacks, such as fruit, jerky, nuts, candy, or energy bars.

Macronutrient Ratio

“For long-haul endurance activities, complex carbohydrates are most important for sustained energy,” Rothenstein says, “with moderate amounts of protein for muscle repair and fats for calorie-dense fuel.”

Freeze-dried meals that you plan to eat after a day of trail activities will ideally contain upward of 60 grams of carbs and at least 30 grams of protein.

Sodium Content

Sodium needs increase during prolonged physical activity, especially in hot weather, Rothenstein says, and it’s critical to consume enough sodium to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat.

“The amount of sodium suitable for you depends on factors like high blood pressure or salt sensitivity,” she notes, as well as your sweat rate and sodium losses. The only way to know for sure how much sodium you need is to do a two-part sweat test (measure sodium loss through a patch or similar method, and measure water loss by weighing yourself before and after physical activity).

Since that’s kind of a significant undertaking, it’s okay to estimate your sodium needs. In general, it’s a good idea to aim for at least 500 milligrams of sodium per liter of water while hiking, and get more from your meals. In other words: Don’t be afraid of the salt in backpacking foods, unless you’re watching your sodium intake for medical reasons. If that’s the case, talk with your healthcare provider about what’s right for you.

Other Nutritional Considerations

When choosing camping or backpacking meals, it’s crucial to consider factors beyond basic nutrition, Rothenstein says. This means looking at factors like allergens, sensitivities, taste preferences, and dietary preferences.

Digestive upset is not uncommon on trails, especially when it’s really hot outside, so it’s important to choose meals with ingredients that agree with your stomach. Otherwise, you may struggle to get (and keep) calories down, which can leave you feeling weak and fatigued—not ideal on a multi-day outing.

Package Weight

Package weight is a concern for multi-day trips. For a single overnighter, it’s not a big deal, but you’ll want to keep your pack weight as low as possible in any case. Make sure to look at the net weight on each pouch and add the total to your pack weight.

Package Durability

Pouches should be durable and ideally waterproof. You don’t want them to puncture if you happen to fall on trail, or tear if they’re rubbing against other items in your pack.

Preparation Instructions

The majority of backpacking meals are prepared in the exact same way: Boil water, pour it into the pouch, stir, and let it soak. There is some variation in total soaking time, but that’s the gist. Some brands offer cold-soak meals, which would allow you to reduce your pack weight by leaving the stove and fuel canister behind. If you’re willing to eat cold meals at camp, it’s an option.

Why You Should Trust Us

Not only did I try meals from every brand featured on this list, but I’m actual hiker trash, so I know what my fellow hiker trash friends are looking for in a camp meal. I’m a full-time traveler and I absolutely love spending days and nights in the backcountry—not without a good meal, though.

In addition to trying these meals and rating them against a multi-point methodology, I also got insights from a registered dietitian about what to look for in trail meals. On top of that, I’m a professional gear reviewer with seven years of gear-testing experience, and it’s my personal mission to help consumers like me find the best products for their needs.

For this piece, I also consulted with registered dietitian Michelle Routhenstein at Entirely Nourished to discuss nutrition needs for backcountry adventure.

Other Freeze-Dried Meals We Tested and Researched

In addition to the seven best freeze-dried meals detailed above, I also tested several other options and researched even more. Here’s a look at the competition.

AlpineAire

I tried two AlpineAire meals: The chilaquiles verdes and Mexican-style grilled chicken bowl with beans. Both tasted okay, but weren’t my favorite. The packages are slightly bulkier than those from other brands, making them a bit harder to pack down. It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth noting for ultralight hikers.

4Patriots

I haven’t tried 4Patriots’ camping or emergency meals, but I have heard good things. In my case, I didn’t try them because I live in a campervan full-time and it’s complicated to receive packages. So, I pick up what I can find in brick-and-mortar stores. For other full-time travelers, 4Patriots meals may not be accessible. From what I can see online, 4Patriots foods aren’t available as singular pouches: You have to buy a “survival kit” ranging from 72 hours to three months worth of food.

Next Mile Meals

Next Mile Meals specializes in keto backcountry meals, an excellent option for outdoor enthusiasts on a low-carb diet. Currently, the meals are only available online and not in any retail stores. The menu is still relatively small, featuring a handful of breakfast and lunch/dinner options. They’re a bit pricey for the calorie content, averaging about $15 for about 500 calories. That’s not too far off from what’s normal in this space, but there are more cost-efficient options if you’re looking for the most calories for your buck. That said, they are generally high in protein for the calorie count.

Wild Edge

Another keto-friendly backcountry meal option, Wild Edge manufactures high-calorie, low-carb dehydrated foods. The recipes are unique, including entrees like Cuban Picadillo with Wild Bison and Sesame Ginger Wild Boar. They are indeed high in calories, with most packs containing more than 600 calories and more than 40 grams of protein. It shows in the pricing: Most entrees cost nearly $17, making these some of the most expensive backcountry meals available.

Pinnacle Foods

Meals from Pinnacle Foods cost a straightforward $17 per pouch and contain 700 or more calories per pouch, except for the breakfast scramble, which contains 550. While expensive, these entrees have more calories and protein than similarly priced options.

Packit Gourmet

If your need for gourmet food doesn’t disappear in the backcountry, Packit Gourmet should be on your shopping list. Packit produces unique trail meals like pizza margherita (BYO tortillas), curry mango chicken salad, and Tuscan beef stew and Italian polenta. Many of the meals can be cold-soaked or rehydrated with boiling water. For most, BYO sides are recommended for the full experience.

Dozens of Freeze-Dried Meals Taste-Tested

With so many camping and trail meal options available, how’s a person to choose? Here’s how I did it.

Years of Travel and Trail Experience

I’ve been traveling, hiking, and camping extensively for many years. As of this writing, I live in a campervan full-time and regularly hit the trails by foot or on two wheels. I’ve eaten various—maybe too many—freeze-dried and dehydrated camp meals over years of adventures.

Dedicated Testing Period

In addition to years of trail and camping experience under my belt, I dedicated an entire month to trying freeze-dried and dehydrated meals specifically for this guide. I ate them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner during various conditions and in dozens of places. Each time I boiled water and tore open a pouch, I rated each meal against various criteria, including:

• Taste and texture
• Nutrition (calories, protein, carbs, fats, sodium, ingredients)
• Ease of preparation
• Soaking time
• Package weight and size
• Weight-to-calorie ratio
• Package durability (is it waterproof and puncture-proof?)
• Sustainability (recyclable packaging, manufacturing processes, etc.)
• Cleanup, if any

I also connected with registered dietitian Michelle Routhenstein at Entirely Nourished to discuss nutrition needs for backcountry adventure.

FAQ

What is the longest lasting freeze dried meal?

All freeze-dried or dehydrated meals last for at least several years. From my research, the longest-lasting—based on a taste guarantee—are Mountain House Adventure Meals. Mountain House backs their meals with an impressive 30-year taste guarantee. 4Patriots comes in a close second with a 25-year taste guarantee.

What are the disadvantages of freeze-dried food?

Freeze-dried food has few functional drawbacks: It lasts a long time, is great for backcountry exploring, and excellent to have on-hand in case of emergencies. One major drawback is that freeze-dried food doesn’t taste as good as freshly prepared food. Sometimes, the textures can feel off. Some brands may use artificial ingredients and additives to improve tastes and textures, but in my experience, freeze-dried food is often “cleaner” than a lot of what lines shelves at grocery stores.

What brand of freeze-dried food is the best?

After taste-testing more than 10 brands of freeze-dried food, my personal favorite for tasty meals is Trailtopia. From a health standpoint, Good-to-Go, Wild Zora, and Firepot Foods boast the “cleanest” ingredients labels and are free from artificial ingredients, additives, preservatives, major allergens, and inflammatory ingredients.

The post 7 Best Freeze-Dried Meals for Camping, Tested and Reviewed by an Avid Camper appeared first on Family Handyman.

The Breeo Firewood Rack helps solve both those issues. That’s right, the same people who produce some of the best fire pits are now taking a stab at what is arguably the most important fire pit accessory (next to roasting sticks for s’mores, of course). I’ve been using a standard home improvement store rack for the past few months, so I was curious if this would be any better.

As I’ll explain in my Breeo Firewood Rack review, this is definitely a step up from what you’d find at most stores. It’s also a bit more expensive, but I’ll tell you why it’s worth the cost for some people in the long run.

What is the Breeo Firewood Rack?

The Breeo Firewood Rack holds about a half-face cord of firewood, about four feet in height and length, and can hold up to 15-inch logs (20-inch logs may cause it to tip over). Need more space? The Breeo rack connects to expansion kits; there is no limit on the number of racks you can add. Each rack has its own water-resistant cover, so you can store as much wood as needed.

Although known for its smokeless fire pits, Breeo’s is no stranger to furniture and other fire pit accessories. They’ve produced countless items to turn your pit into a live-fire cooking station, such as a pizza oven, and make chairs and tables for you and your guests to use while sitting around the fire.

Breeo tends to knock it out of the park with these accessories. Their leather fire gloves are some of the most durable and heat-proof mits I’ve used, so I had high hopes for the firewood rack before I even opened it.

One important note: Unlike Breeo’s smokeless fire pits, made in the USA with Amish labor, their firewood rack is made in China. That said, it still has the same high-quality construction that we’ve expected from Breeo.

Looking for another smokeless fire pit? Check out our East Oak Fire Pit review.

VIA MERCHANT

We Tried It

Breeo Firewood Rack

A firewood rack designed by a premium fire pit brand.

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Breeo Firewood Rack Features

Calling the Breeo Firewood Rack “just a rack” would be like calling a McLaren “just a car.” Technically, you’re not wrong, but it’s more than just a steel rack that holds your firewood.

Large Capacity

Each Breeo Firewood Rack can hold up to half a face cord, which is four feet in length and height. A full-face cord is eight feet long and four feet in height.

A half-face cord is enough room for me, but I’m not using my portable fire pits or indoor fireplace every night. I mostly use them on weekends when it’s cool outside, so someone who likes to have a crackling fire more often than that may need more room.

And yes, there are bigger firewood racks out there that are cheaper than Breeo’s. But let’s say there’s a harsh winter ahead, or you’re entertaining a crowd and need more firewood than those racks can handle. What do you do then?

That’s where the Breeo rack’s next feature comes in handy.

Infinitely Expandable

Each Breeo Firewood Rack can be connected to an expansion kit, making your rack as large as you need. I have yet to test this feature because I don’t need that much firewood, and as of this writing, no customer reviews touch on this.

I love this feature, and it’s one of the main factors separating the Breeo rack from its competition. Other adjustable firewood racks are out there, but they’re often made with weaker materials than what you find on the Breeo. The “base” size of those other racks is also smaller than Breeo’s, and you’d have to provide a new tarp or water-resistant cover every time you make it larger.

If you have at least a full-face cord of firewood, you can order the Breeo Firewood Rack and an expansion kit or the expansion kit on its own if you need more storage.

Durable Frame

Another reason the Breeo Firewood Rack is worth the price is the durable steel frame. Breeo doesn’t specify what type of steel is used, but I could tell from lifting the box off my front porch that this is heavy-duty. It’s powder-coated, adding an extra protection layer and preventing rusting.

The stainless steel feet also deserve some praise. These give me extra peace of mind that my rack will stay intact and stable. Many other firewood racks use a 2×4 as a base or have four skinny steel legs holding it up. I don’t have any major concerns about these racks’ durability, and many of the ones I’ve used have held up just fine. I just like Breeo’s feet a little more.

You can shake this thing as hard as you want, and it won’t budge because the feet keep it grounded. That doesn’t mean that logs can’t fall off or that this can’t tip over—because it can if overloaded. However, other reviewers and I feel the Breeo firewood rack is more durable and stable than the others we’ve used.

Water-Resistant Cover

Each Breeo Firewood Rack includes a water-resistant cover. The canvas cover is treated with a polyurethane solution (PU) that wicks water away and provides up to 1,000 hours of UV protection. It has built-in magnets that keep it stuck to the steel frame so it doesn’t come off during strong wind gusts.

Even a beginner fire pit user can figure out why you’d want to keep your firewood dry—it helps it burn quicker and more evenly. Wet firewood also produces much more smoke and is susceptible to mold and rotting. If you need to keep your wood accessible or dry it out, the cover can be rolled up and tied to stay up.

I keep my firewood on a covered porch, so it’s never in the direct path of rain. The cover has done a nice job of protecting all sides, and the magnets do a good job keeping it in place. It’s much nicer than using a standard tarp, which does a good job of keeping rain out but can fly off if not properly weighed down.

One customer reviewer said the cover collected water during a storm that dripped through the canvas and onto the wood (Breeo responded that they’d passed that information to their product team). So, if you plan on putting this rack outdoors, you may want an extra layer of protection during the rainy season.

Easy Assembly

Assembling the Breeo Firewood Rack is pretty simple, and if you’ve ever put together one of these, you might not even need the instruction booklet (though you should always read it once, just to be sure).

Essentially, all you do is connect the horizontal steel tubes to the connectors with the steel feet (brackets) via a couple of screws and then fasten the vertical steel rods with screws. All the tools are included in the box.

All that’s left to do is add your firewood and attach the cover, which takes less than a minute. It took me 10 minutes to open the box and assemble this rack myself.

Lifetime Warranty

Alright, this isn’t a feature of the rack, per se, but it’s nice knowing that your Breeo Firewood Rack has a lifetime warranty. Breeo’s website states that they’ll replace or fix your product free of charge—all you have to do is provide them with photos and an explanation of the issue.

The brand’s strong warranty is another reason I’m okay recommending Breeo products, even if they are a bit more expensive than other brands. Finding a company that makes high-quality products and covers them for life is rare.

How We Tested It

I wanted to test the Breeo Firewood Rack for two reasons: I test fire pits and pizza ovens for a living, so I’m always going through firewood, and I just moved into a place with a working indoor fireplace. I’ve had the Breeo Firewood Rack for about a month. In that time, I’ve loaded it with firewood to check its durability and stability. I’ve checked to see if the cover is efficient at keeping the logs dry and simulated “shake tests” to ensure it won’t fall over if bumped into.

It passed all tests with flying colors and now has a space on my balcony to store all my firewood (I’m partial to the Cutting Edge firewood subscription).

Pros

• One rack holds half a face cord
• Comes with a water-resistant cover that protects all the logs
• Can add as many expansion kits as you want
• Holds logs up to 15 inches long
• Easy to put together
• Durable
• Lifetime warranty
• Lightweight (when empty)

Cons

• Expensive
• Not made in the USA

FAQ

Can you leave the Breeo Firewood Rack out in the rain?

The Breeo Firewood Rack comes with a water-resistant cover, meaning you could hypothetically leave it out in the rain, but that doesn’t mean you should. One customer reviewer said water leaked through the cover after a storm, making their logs wet.

How big is the Breeo Firewood Rack?

The Breeo Firewood Rack is 52-1/2 inches long and 15 inches high. When empty, it weighs 40 pounds and can be connected to expansion kits of the same size.

What Others Had to Say

As of this writing, the Breeo Firewood Rack has only been out for about a month, so there are few customer reviews. It has an average rating of 4.6 stars on its website, with all but one of the eight reviews being five-star ratings.

“Like all other Breeo products, the firewood rack is well designed and constructed,” writes customer Jim C. “Replaced another couple of inferior racks. Solid and keeps wood dry but easily accessible.”

The lone negative review was a two-star rating, and the reviewer took points off because of the cover rather than the rack itself. “It rained yesterday for most of the day and the top of the cover literally took on water and slowly dripped all of the wood,” customer Brad writes. “The top seems to be two pieces of fabric and if it gets soaked in a storm it retains the water. It doesn’t seem like that should happen.”

The Breeo team passed this concern to their product team and offered Brad a new cover or credit for his troubles.

Breeo Firewood Rack vs. Solo Stove Station

Breeo vs. Solo is a widespread debate in the fire pit community. However, comparing the Breeo Firewood Rack to the Solo Stove Station feels like comparing apples to oranges. Not only that, I think there’s a small subsection of people who could use both.

The Breeo Firewood Rack is just a rack. It’s a nice one, but it doesn’t do much else besides hold and protect your logs.

The Solo Stove Station, on the other hand, can hold your firewood, Solo Stove and other Solo accessories. Like the Breeo Firewood Rack, the Solo Station has a full-length weatherproof cover to keep out rainwater and excessive sunlight. Breeo has the X-Series table, which can hold firewood and other accessories but not your fire pit.

It’s unclear how much firewood the Solo Stove Station can hold. It has a 250-pound weight capacity, but that includes the weight of your Solo Stove (if you decide to store it there). Solo doesn’t sell a dedicated firewood rack, which is why I think some people should get both accessories.

Think about it: You use the Solo Stove Station to store your Solo Bonfire or Solo Stove Mesa, have a few logs in the other compartment, and have more ready to go in your Breeo Firewood Rack. On the other hand, people with a Breeo or other type of fire pit should just go for the firewood rack since it’s unlikely the Solo Station can hold their pit, though smaller ones like the Blue Sky Ridge Fire Pit should have no issue.

As someone with two Breeo fire pits (I know I have a problem), I would also like to see Breeo make something like the Solo Stove Station for easy storage.

Final Verdict

Do I think everyone needs to get rid of their firewood rack in favor of the Breeo Firewood Rack? No, but if you’re in the market for one, I think it provides some of the best bang for your buck due to its highly durable frame, included weatherproof cover, large capacity and its ability to connect to other expansion racks endlessly.

Are you partially paying for the brand name? A little (sorry, Breeo, we call it as we see it). Even with the slight upcharge, few other firewood racks are as long-lasting and come with a lifetime warranty, not to mention excellent customer service.

Where to Buy the Breeo Firewood Rack

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Breeo Firewood Rack

More than a standard firewood rack.

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The Breeo Firewood Rack is available on Breeo’s website for just under $200. Its sale price is $225, the same price you can get at The Home Depot.

The post I Tried the All-New Breeo Firewood Rack, Here’s My Honest Opinion appeared first on Family Handyman.

Recently, HydroFlask made headlines with its newest release, a direct competitor to the trending Stanley Flowstate tumbler. Between the double-wall insulation that keeps drink temperatures controlled for hours and an attractive powder finish, I’m already hooked. Here’s what I thought upon testing this newest addition to the brand’s drinkware and cooler lineup, the HydroFlask All Around Travel Tumbler.

What is the HydroFlask All Around Travel Tumbler?

The HydroFlask All Around Travel Tumbler is HydroFlask’s newest travel tumbler. This large and in-charge cup keeps drink temperature consistent for hours, offers an easy-grip ergonomic handle and fits in most standard-sized cup holders. Fill it early in the day and enjoy iced water throughout your entire work shift. When there are fewer refills needed, folks tend to drink more water overall—what’s not to love about that?

While the HydroFlask All Around Travel Tumbler is the brand’s latest buzz-worthy addition to their collection, there are tons of cool finds on their site. Like Stanley’s Outside In collection, HydroFlask offers an assortment of non-tumbler kitchenware and coolers on the site. Some of my favorite finds include their Cut and Serve platter and attractive Carry Out soft cooler.

@itsmoi.b

Obsessed with the new All Around Travel Tumbler from @hydroflask 💙 Get yours from the link in my bio! #HydroFlask #TravelTumbler

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Pros

• Large 40-ounce and smaller 32-ounce sizes
• Flexible straw
• Sturdy handle
• Fits into most standard-size cup holders
• Several colors to pick from
• Regulates temperature for hours
• Durable powder coating for chip and scratch-free colors
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Pricey
• A bit heavy

How We Tested It

Setting up the HydroFlask All Round Tumbler was incredibly simple, as expected. I simply rinsed it with gentle soap and water before filling it with filtered water from my fridge. Once filled, I added a few ice cubes and popped in the lid. Then, I waited.

Three hours later and the ice was still present. Two hours after that, the ice was slightly melted, but still very much there. Verdict? The HydroFlask All Round Tumbler certainly lives up to its claim to keep iced drinks iced for several hours. Win!

Similarly, my morning coffee stayed piping hot throughout my shift, only losing minimal heat somewhere around the six-hour mark. When I had to scoot over to a doctor’s appointment after work, my HydroFlask All Round Tumbler slid securely into my Ford Focus’s cupholder—no jamming or squeezing required.

As a bonus, I once accidentally knocked over my tumbler while working, and at half-full, I didn’t get any leakage. Now that’s a leakproof cup!

What’s the difference between HydroFlask and Stanley?

With both brands offering similar bottles and styles, shoppers may wonder if there’s a big difference between the two. Stanley’s greatest “pro” over HydroFlask is that they offer nearly three times the number of varieties, colors and sizes. Stanley often does partnerships with other brands, leading to creative collaborations like the Stanley and Pendleton collection.

HydroFlask may not offer all the bells and whistles of Stanley with its assortment of only 10 colors. However, anyone who purchases a HydroFlask won’t regret their purchase. Both bottles look great when sitting on a tailgate table or in a cup holder, and both also assist with keeping our oceans free of plastic.

HydroFlask color coatings are slightly more resistant to chipping and scratches. In my experience, it’s also been more leakproof thanks to the built-in bendy straw and tight-fitting lid. They’re also slightly less pricey than Stanleys, though the All Around Travel Tumbler and Stanley Quencher retail at around the same price.

In a direct comparison of the HydroFlask All Around Travel Tumbler vs. the Stanley Quencher Flowstate Tumbler, there are a few key differences. The lid of the HydroFlask pops in rather than twists, making it a bit more accessible. While the Stanley Quencher has a convertible lid that supports sipping, the All Around Tumbler from HydroFlask doesn’t.

However, HydroFlask does offer a separate lid for sipping available on the site for those who prefer it. It also arrives with a fun leak-free bendy straw. Plus, the 32-ounce size is slightly bigger than Stanley’s 30-ounce counterpart.

Stanley Quenchers recently added personalization options to their site for $10, so it’s easier than ever to add custom text and art to their bottles. HydroFlask also offers personalized engraving services that cost slightly less than Stanley’s options at only $6.

The Bottom Line

Overall, both Stanley and HydroFlask offer seriously durable reusable water bottles, coolers and camping gear. Both of these eco-friendly bottle brands also offer lifetime warranties and stylish choices. I am a HydroFlask girl through and through, but that doesn’t mean that Stanley isn’t a great reusable water bottle.

That said, the HydroFlask is my personal top pick. The simple design, scratch and chip-resistant finish and incredible insulation made a great impression. Plus, I love that there’s an option to snag a slightly smaller 32-ounce tumbler for those who find the 40-ounce size too large.

Pick a side and become a brand snob, or collect a few from each store and draw your own conclusions. Some folks may even decide to skip both brands for a smart water bottle that tracks drinking metrics. Whichever you choose, prepare to change the way you drink water throughout the day. Any bottle that makes it easier to hydrate is a “win” in our book!

Where to Buy the HydroFlask All Around Travel Tumbler

The HydroFlask tumbler comes in two different sizes, a larger 40-ounce size that retails for $45 and a smaller 32-ounce size that rings up at under $40. Both fit in most standard-sized cupholders and come in a variety of colors.

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The post Does HydroFlask’s New All Around Travel Tumbler Stand Up to Stanley? appeared first on Family Handyman.

When it comes to leading retailers of outdoor gear and clothing, two brands land at the top of any list: Patagonia and The North Face. Both brands are known for their quality goods, style and commitment to the environment.

Before you stock up for your next family camping trip, check out the perks and differences of Patagonia vs North Face.

What’s the Difference Between Patagonia and The North Face?

Patagonia and North Face offer similar products. Both brands sell comparable items if you’re looking for outdoor clothing like fleece jackets and snow boots.

However, The North Face offers a much wider product range of camping gear and bags, like our all-time favorite gear box.  North Face also has a significantly larger product line when it comes to affordable, casual clothing. Patagonia, on the other hand, offers little in the way of cheaper, everyday attire and workwear.

Beyond product range, Patagonia and The North Face differ in a few areas, including brand history, pricing and repairs.

All About Patagonia

Patagonia fits the bill if you’re looking for a brand with a long-standing commitment to the environment and sustainability. Founded in 1973, the company has always been well-regarded for its quality goods and ethics. Today, a large portion of Patagonia products are made from recycled materials, and all of their cotton is either recycled or organic.

More than half of their fabrics are also Bluesign-certified, which means they are guaranteed to be safe for the environment, its workers and their customers. Additionally, Patagonia actively invests in environmental nonprofit organizations working to preserve the planet.

In an effort to keep clothing out of landfills, Patagonia’s Worn Wear program allows you to trade in gently worn clothing in exchange for a credit toward new purchases. You can then save money by buying this pre-loved merchandise at a discount.

The Care & Repair service brings items back to like-new condition in about 12 weeks. Repairs may not look exactly like the original product based on the materials available (different color patches on clothing, for example). But we love the way the results look—they’re kind of like a badge of honor. Plus, Patagonia doesn’t charge for most repairs.

Regarding general returns, you can receive a refund on anything purchased directly from Patagonia—both new and sale items. Items should be in new condition with the tags still attached. Returns made more than one year after the purchase date receive a Patagonia merchandise credit.

Patagonia is often more expensive because of its high-quality clothing and long-lasting products made from sustainable materials. If you’re someone who hikes just a few times a year, you may be reluctant to spend a couple hundred dollars on a jacket. However, minimalists will love Patagonia’s lightweight and packable designs—so it might be worth the investment.

Some of Our Favorite Patagonia Products

All About The North Face

The North Face prioritized innovation ahead of other brand concerns. It wasn’t until recently that they began taking action to become more eco-friendly. Now, North Face plans to manufacture all its apparel with recycled, responsibly sourced or renewable materials by 2025. They expect the same for footwear and equipment by 2030.

The North Face’s Renewed program is similar to Patagonia’s Worn Wear initiative to reduce waste. Join The North Face’s Explore Pass (their rewards program), then bring in gently used gear to any store and receive a $10 credit. Based on their condition, they’ll refurbish items or recycle and donate them. The result is the Remade collection: one-of-a-kind products creatively repaired, cleaned, inspected and certified to meet The North Face’s high standards.

On the other hand, The North Face accepts returns on unworn products (with proof of payment) online or at retail stores within 60 days of the original purchase. Returns without a receipt receive a merchandise credit at the item’s lowest selling price.

The North Face tends to be slightly more affordable than Patagonia. If budget is your main concern, you’ll want to check out The North Face first.

Some of Our Favorite The North Face Products

Why You Should Trust Us

Mary Henn is an experienced shopping editor and writer with experience at Family Handyman, Reader’s Digest and Taste of Home. Mary has tested over 100 products with a focus on lifestyle products, outdoor gear and DIY gadgets. Given her extensive experience with outdoor goods, she is well-equipped to compare Patagonia and North Face.

Alexandra Mantella, Content Updates Editor at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this piece. She has over five years of experience in product testing, research and commerce writing. Previously, she served as a commerce content update editor at Bob Vila.

FAQ

Are North Face and Patagonia the same company?

No. Though North Face and Patagonia are very similar companies, the two brands are not manufactured in the same place or owned by the same company.

Who is more ethical, Patagonia or North Face?

Patagonia and North Face are both committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. However, Patagonia uses seven percent more recycled materials than North Face and plans to eliminate virgin petroleum materials. Plus, they pledge one percent of sales to restoration and preservation of the environment.

North Face integrates technologies like DryVent and ThermoBall insulation, which enhances weather resistance and incorporates recycled elements. It is also committed to a circular design, eliminating plastic packaging by 2025 and reducing CO2 emissions by over half by 2030.

Which is better quality, North Face or Patagonia?

While both of these brands are capable of making high-quality gear, some users have been known to favor Patagonia when it comes to durability. However, North Face has plenty of options in stock that can take on heavy-duty use and look fashion-forward.

The Bottom Line

When deciding whether to shop at Patagonia or The North Face, it’s likely going to come down to personal preference. Patagonia is more known for being environmentally conscious and eco-friendly, while The North Face directs its efforts on updating and expanding its product line. Additionally, Patagonia focuses more on its product materials and durability, which is often reflected in its higher prices.

You can’t go wrong with either brand if you’re a new hiker or climber looking for gear to begin outdoor adventures.

The post Patagonia vs North Face: Which Retailer Makes Better Outdoor Gear? appeared first on Family Handyman.

The Mesa heat deflector doubles the heating radius of your Mesa to ensure that everyone is cozy and warm around the outdoor dining table. It merges functionality and style to create the ideal patio centerpiece. (If you don’t have the Mesa yet and you’re curious, scope out my full Mesa review.)

Here’s what you need to know about the all-new Mesa heat deflector.

What is the Solo Stove Mesa heat deflector?

The Mesa heat deflector is a must-have Solo Stove accessory for your existing Mesa or Mesa XL tabletop fire pit. It sits directly on top of your Mesa to push heat outward and increase its heating radius by 2 feet or more. Logs and/or pellets can be added while the heat deflector is in place to keep the fire going throughout the night.

Constructed from Solo Stove’s famous 304 stainless steel, the Mesa heat deflector is built to last a just as long as your other Solo Stove gear for a lifetime of warm moments alongside your fire pit.

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Solo Stove Mesa Heat Deflector

You need this heat deflector that extends the warming radius of your Solo Stove Mesa or Mesa XL.

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49.9920% OFF$39.99 at Amazon

Solo Stove Mesa Heat Deflector Features

The round, angled shape of the Mesa heat deflector redirects warm air out while the perforated grates in the center allow the fire to breathe. The deflector sits high enough above the Mesa that you can add fuel via any of the three easy-access windows without removing the deflector. It weighs less than one pound and comes with a carrying bag. It’s only 5 inches tall and has a diameter of less than 8 inches, so it takes up virtually no extra space on top of your Mesa.

The heat deflector tends to accumulate soot after multiple uses since it sits above the fire. However, it’s easy to clean with mild soap and water. For tougher grime, stainless steel cleaner works well. Its unique shape makes storage a bit awkward despite the included carry bag, so consider dedicating a space for it between uses.

How We Tested It

The Solo Stove Mesa heat deflector arrived in a small box with the new metallic Mesa fire pit. (Yes, I couldn’t help myself and had to get my hands on one of the latest metallic colors from Solo Stove.) Both the deflector and the Mesa are incredibly lightweight and require little to no assembly to setup.

The Mesa is good to go out of the box once the base is popped on the bottom, and the Mesa heat deflector takes just a couple of minutes to snap into place. All you have to do is slide three legs onto the included base ring and secure them to the underside of the deflector. After that, your heat deflector is ready to sit on top of your Mesa fire pit. It’s recommended that you start a fire using pellets or mini logs and allow the fire to burn for five to 10 minutes before placing the heat deflector on top. You’ll want to use high-heat gloves or tools to gently place the deflector’s base ring inside the outer lip of the Mesa.

Once your fire is roaring and the deflector is placed on top of the Mesa, you should notice heat radiating from the fire pit. With secure and spaced posts, you can add additional fuel while the heat deflector is in place and enjoy the warmth and coziness of your Mesa for as long as you desire.

I was surprised by the amount of heat the Mesa put out with the added heat deflector. My partner and I gathered around the fire pit on a chilly evening and noticed significant warmth radiating from it while it sat in between us (about 1.5 feet away from each of us). Plus, the new metallic finish added a festive holiday hue and a dose of cheer to our patio. I can’t wait to use it when we have family and friends over this holiday season.

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Weighs less than one pound
• Durable
• Easy to assemble
• Easy to use
• Takes up little space
• Includes carrying bag
• Free shipping and returns
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Doesn’t disassemble for flat storage, but assembled deflector fits into carrying case

Why Trust Us

I am a shopping editor and product tester at Family Handyman and have tested and reviewed over 100 individual products, ranging from outdoor gear and DIY gadgets to mattresses and vacuums. I’ve won awards for my writing and journalism in outlets including Reader’s Digest, Taste of Home, MSN, NewsBreak and (of course) Family Handyman.

Sean Tirman, content updates editor at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this piece. Sean has written shopping guides since 2016 and is a former associate editor at Gear Patrol. Caitlyn Fitzpatrick, an editor and writer since 2014, used her expertise in commerce and SEO to contribute to this piece, too.

FAQs

Why use a heat deflector?

In a fire pit, most heat rises directly upward, limiting the area of warmth. A heat deflector redirects this heat horizontally, expanding the warmth radius and making the experience more comfortable, especially on colder days.

Do Solo Stove heat deflectors work?

Yes. The Solo Stove Mesa Heat Deflector increases the heat radius by 2 feet or more while also reflecting some heat back into the fire to boost efficiency and reduce fuel needs. However, the deflector gets extremely hot, so let it cool completely or use oven gloves to avoid burns. Keep pets and children away until it cools.

Is the Mesa Heat Deflector compatible with other Solo Stove models?

The Mesa Heat Deflector is made for the Mesa tabletop fire pit, but Solo Stove offers deflectors compatible with models like the Bonfire, Ranger, Canyon and Yukon. Adding one to these fire pits can enhance your experience.

How do you clean a Solo Stove Heat Deflector?

Solo Stove says that with the right preventative care, like keeping it out of the rain, you shouldn’t need to clean the heat deflector often. However, soot is expected to build up at the bottom, so use a dry cloth and Bar Keepers Friend (an industrial-strength cleaner) to polish it.

Product Comparison

Fire pit heat deflectors aren’t new—many large, standalone models have been around for some time. These are often designed to fit a variety of fire pits, but they tend to be bulky, with basic designs that resemble metal plates on legs.

The key difference with the Solo Stove Mesa Heat Deflector is its space-efficient design, tailored specifically for Solo Stove fire pits. If you own or are considering a Solo Stove, this compatibility and space-saving design might justify the purchase.

Another notable difference is the cost. While third-party deflectors typically start around $50, the Mesa Heat Deflector is more affordable at $35 for the small version and $40 for the XL.

Final Verdict

If you own or are thinking about buying a Mesa or Mesa XL (or Bonfire or Yukon), the Mesa heat deflector is a must-have accessory during the colder months that’ll help you enjoy tabletop warmth and s’mores all year long.

Our Favorite Mesa Accessories

If you want to up your Mesa game, there are a few other Solo Stove accessories that I also recommend. In addition to the new Mesa heat deflector, I love the Mesa accessory pack, which includes a pellet scoop, Mesa lid, mini sticks and stick rests for roasting s’mores over your small fire. Another winner is the mini oak firewood, which is cut to give you the perfect size flame in your Mesa. With zero additives or chemicals, the firewood is curated for quick ignition and a savory wood-fired flavor that’s safe for cooking.

Where to Buy the Solo Stove Mesa Heat Deflector

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Solo Stove Mesa Heat Deflector

Planning to spend time outside this season? This is the must-have winter accessory for your Solo Stove Mesa or Mesa XL.

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49.9920% OFF$39.99 at Amazon

The post Solo Stove’s New Mesa Heat Deflector Increases Your Fire Pit’s Heating Radius appeared first on Family Handyman.

But what could possibly be so great about an outdoor torch? Well, my partner and I have tested many Solo Stove products in the last year, and to put it in their words: “The Mesa Torch might be my favorite Solo Stove product yet.”

The new Solo Stove Mesa Torch looks incredible, keeps bugs away, and provides firelit ambiance to any outdoor scene. I’ll break down all the product details in my review below, but let’s just say that if you’re a Solo Stove fan, you’re going to love this one.

What is the Solo Stove Mesa Torch?

The new Mesa Torch is a backyard torchlight that runs on torch fluid. It’s a durable, stainless-steel torch made with the iconic Solo Stove design, similar to that of the tabletop Mesa.

The weather-resistant, cold-rolled steel is painted a semi-matte black to blend seamlessly into any outdoor backdrop. Plus, you can choose between two configurations: Tall and short. So, your Mesa Torch can light your fence line or be at eye level when you’re sitting on the patio.

The Mesa Torch has a giant wick, integrated fuel canister and a bezel that fits the snuff cap perfectly for easy extinguishing. Plus, the torch will keep an oversized flame for up to five hours on a single fill!

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Mesa Torch Product Features

The Mesa Torch is sold individually or in a pack of three (which is a better deal price-wise). Each option comes with the torch (or torches) and ground stake(s), a silicone funnel for easy fuel fills and extra wicks. The three-pack also comes with free citronella-scented Mesa Torch Fuel.

The torch’s tall configuration stands at 52-1/2 inches, and the short option stands at 37-3/4 inches. The integrated fuel canister holds 21 ounces of fluid fuel. Each torch is slim and lightweight, and the diameter of the torch’s head is just 3-3/4 inches, so it doesn’t obstruct any patio or outdoor views.

How We Tested It

When the new Solo Stove Mesa Torches arrived at my doorstep, I was surprised by the slim, lightweight box. I was sure that I accidentally received only one torch based on the misleading size of the box. Upon opening it, I realized I was wrong. There were three torches included, along with other parts like extra wicks, a funnel and snuff caps.

Mesa Torch Assembly 

Assembly is required for the Mesa Torch, but it takes seconds. All you have to do is connect the three poles to the ground stake and the top of the torch, and you’re ready to stick your torch in the ground wherever you like. After you have your torch assembled and placed, you can add a little torch fuel to the fill line. I did not have the Mesa Torch Fuel, so I used the clean-burn, mosquito-repellent torch fuel I had on hand. (It worked like a charm.)

Filling the Mesa Torch

After filling the Mesa Torch, you’ll want to let the wick saturate for at least 15 minutes before lighting. Once lit, the flame takes another 15 minutes to build to its maximum size. When you’re done with the torch, the silver snuff cap slides right on top of the torch and locks into place.

The Mesa Torches are incredibly slender, which I love. They don’t look bulky or cumbersome on a patio, yet they still provide a tall flame that gives off a good amount of light. As my partner and I enjoyed our patio, surrounded by the bright, bug-repelling flames of the Mesa Torches, we agreed that the new torches might be one of our favorite Solo Stove products to date. They are certainly the best-looking backyard torches we’ve seen, and they feel incredibly sturdy once staked into the ground.

If you haven’t upgraded your old bamboo torches in a while, you’ll be impressed by the overall quality and sleek look of the Solo Stove Mesa Torch.

Pros

• Impressive quality
• Easy to assemble and use
• Weather-resistant
• Burn time of 5 hours
• Compatible with any torch fuel
• Lightweight, yet sturdy
• Large flame
• Adjustable height
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• A little pricey
• My pack of 3 torches only came with one clip to latch the snuff cap onto the torch (but it did come with 3 snuff caps)

FAQ

Is the Mesa Torch smokeless?

Unlike Solo Stove fire pits, the Mesa Torch is not smokeless. Torch fuel tends to produce a small amount of smoke when burning, especially when first lit. I burned a “clean” torch fuel, and noticed very little smoke, so that may be an option if you’re looking to reduce the amount of smoke produced.

How do I light my Mesa Torch?

After assembling, placing and filling your Mesa Torch, you’ll insert the wick into the canister cap and let it soak for 15 minutes. You’ll want to be sure that at least ½-inch of wick is sticking out from the top when you light it. We recommend using a long-stem lighter to avoid burning your hand.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking to level up your patio this fall, bringing a little firelight can create the perfect ambiance for a backyard get-together. I also love that adding a citronella-scented or insect-repellent torch fuel can keep bugs at bay.

The Mesa Torches not only look great around my patio, but they also provide light for visibility and protection from unwanted critters and bites.

Where to Buy the Mesa Torch

The Mesa Torch retails at Solo Stove for $80, and a pack of three torches sells for $200 (which comes out to about $67 per torch). The three pack also comes with free torch fuel, which can be a little pricey on its own. And come on, who doesn’t love a freebie?

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The post I Tried the Solo Stove Torch, and It Was Better Than I Expected appeared first on Family Handyman.

I tested the LoCo SmartTemp Griddle for myself, and let me tell you, I was blown away by the smart temperature regulation, electronic ignition and leveling system. Whether you’re a first-time griddle buyer or looking to upgrade your old flat top grill, here’s the full scoop on the LoCo SmartTemp Griddle so you can decide which option is best for you before you buy.

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We Tried It

LoCo SmartTemp Griddle

This flat top griddle's technology cooks food at precise temperatures.

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What is the LoCo SmartTemp Griddle?

LoCo Griddles take the guesswork out of outdoor cooking. Most standard outdoor griddles have dials that give you a vague “high,” “medium” or “low” reading, where it’s difficult to tell what temperature you’re actually using. Not with this LoCo SmartTemp Griddle. The temperature control knobs on the LoCo flat top grill have digital displays that allow you to read and adjust the cooking temperatures in 25-degree increments.

More precise cooking temperatures mean less overcooking and undercooking food—and you can follow a recipe more closely. With a two- or three-burner LoCo Griddle, you can cook various foods at different temperatures on each side of the grill. This is great for getting a nice sear on meats at high heat on one side of the grill and cooking veggies at a lower temperature on the other.

But the high-tech features don’t stop there. LoCo Griddles have an electronic ignition, leveling system, oversized wheels and more. Keep reading for the full rundown on the LoCo SmartTemp Griddle.

How We Tested It

As I mentioned, after reading about the smart features of the 26-inch LoCo SmartTemp Griddle, I was excited to get my hands on one. I love having family over for Sunday morning breakfast, and when the weather is nice, cooking and hanging out outside makes it even better. Naturally, I couldn’t wait for a Sunday gathering to break my LoCo Griddle in, so my partner and I tested the grill by making breakfast-for-dinner for ourselves first.

Setup

While I prepped food, my partner wheeled the grill from our garage around the side of our house and through the backyard to the patio. Thankfully, the LoCo flat top grill has four large wheels, so moving it over concrete and grass was easy. Once it was where we wanted it, we hooked up a tank of propane and plugged it in.

At first, I was a little put off by the cord that has to be plugged in (for the digital temperature controls with an LED display to work) because we do not have an outdoor outlet. However, the cord is long and slim enough that we were able to plug it in inside with an extension cord. We let the door close on it to keep bugs from getting inside, and it didn’t cause too many issues.

Prep Work

After a smooth setup (our LoCo Griddle came fully assembled thanks to our local hardware store), it was time to get cooking. Well, almost—there’s a little bit of prep work that goes into using an outdoor griddle for the first time. First, we wiped down the cooktop with a damp towel to clean it, then we turned on the gas and lit the griddle (which was incredibly easy with the one-touch ignite button). You’ll want to set the controls to sear for about 10 to 15 minutes before seasoning your griddle.

The surface of a griddle is just like an unseasoned cast iron skillet, so it’s important to season the grill top before you cook on it. This process is easy (and necessary). Just take some cooking oil on a rag and rub down your griddle. Be sure to hold the rag with a set of tongs to keep from burning yourself! We did this a few times until the top of the griddle was shiny.

Breakfast for Dinner

When it came time to cook, I tested the new flat top grill with meat (sausage), bread (French toast) and a starch (hashbrowns) to see how it performed on a variety of food types. On the right side, I cooked French toast to a perfect golden brown between 350 and 375 degrees; on the left side, I cooked sausages at 400 degrees. I placed the hashbrowns at the top, where more oil was concentrated, and the temperature ranged between 350 and 400 degrees depending on where I shuffled the hashbrowns.

Cooking breakfast on the patio on a cool evening beats cooking inside, no doubt. Sure, a nice breeze helped, but having a large griddle cooktop allowed me to cook everything (and a lot of it) at once, so cooking time was cut in half. Additionally, food (especially breakfast food) just tastes better over a gas griddle—IYKYK.

The hashbrowns were perfectly crisp (and not soggy), the French toast had a great flavor, and the sausages were grilled to perfection (which, in my opinion, leans into burnt territory because that’s how breakfast sausage should be cooked). However and whatever you decide to cook, I guarantee you’re going to love how it tastes on the LoCo Griddle. It’s like a restaurant-quality cooking surface in your backyard.

Lastly, I think the LoCo Griddle looks nicer than even some of the best grills on the market. It has a glossy chalk finish from top to bottom, an enclosed cart with a cabinet door and two folding shelves. It blends seamlessly with existing patio decor or into any outdoor kitchen setup. The base of the grill cart keeps everything enclosed, so you don’t have to look at an ugly propane tank or wires.

One-Year Update

After using the LoCo SmartTemp Griddle (and a Blackstone griddle) off and on for about a year, I grew to like both for different reasons and seasons. The LoCo griddle was great for quick, temperature-controlled grills right out on the back patio. The one-touch ignition made grilling on a whim easy, and I loved using it for weekend breakfasts when the weather was nice. The LoCo SmartTemp Griddle also survived the back of a moving van, so I’d say it’s fairly durable when it comes to impact. However, I did find that it didn’t hold up as well against the elements as the Blackstone. Heavy rain and snow were particularly hard on it.

After using it on and off for a year, there are a few things I would tell any buyer before purchasing a LoCo griddle:

1. Buy a protective cover, especially if you’re going to store the grill outside and live in a region that sees frequent rain, snow or wind. The grill still works despite being exposed to the elements, but it became difficult to clean after certain seasons.
2. Be sure you can set up the griddle near an outdoor electrical outlet. I had to run an extension cord into my kitchen, and I was constantly tripping over the cord.

Pros

• Smart temperature controls with digital LED display
• One-touch electronic ignition
• Cooktop leveling system angles the griddle top to direct grease into the trap
• Oversized wheels make maneuvering easy and two folding shelves provide large prep area
• Looks great: Wires and gas tank aren’t visible thanks to enclosed grill cart
• Built-in cooktop locking system
• Hinged lid and storage cabinet make storing a breeze
• More affordable than some other name-brand griddles

Cons

• Griddle must be used within close range of electrical outlet so it can be plugged in
• Will likely need a protective cover to keep in good condition

LoCo SmartTemp Griddle Features

In addition to a smart temperature display, this 2-Burner LoCo SmartTemp Griddle has an ignition that allows you to fire up the grill with the push of a button. It’s that easy. The built-in leveling system sends grease straight into the drain hole, and a locking system increases safety and stability while cooking.

The cooktop on the LoCo flat top grill measures 26 inches, which means 530 square inches of cooking surface. In other words, there’s plenty of room to cook for a group of people. The griddle has paper towel and trash bag holders for convenience and organization. However, I found myself putting everything on the two folding side shelves while cooking so that I had everything within arm’s reach.

The hinged lid makes removing and replacing the top of the griddle easy-peasy, and there’s no misplacing the top lid either (I’ve had this issue before, believe it or not, with other griddles where the lid completely detaches). There’s even a storage cabinet at the bottom of the system that hides the propane tank (which can be an eyesore) and leaves room for other large items you may want to keep below the griddle.

LoCo vs. Blackstone Grill

The main difference between LoCo griddles and standard griddles from the competitor brand Blackstone is that the LoCo SmartTemp griddle plugs in to enable an LED display on its dials. The dials provide temperature readings so you know how hot your cooking surface is.

Wes Wright, founder and CEO of CookOut News, says, “For beginners, I would steer them towards LoCo because the temperature control is very helpful. Have you ever noticed when cooking with a pan on the stove that it gradually gets hotter while you cook? SmartTemp solves that problem by regulating the burners to keep the griddle surface at a set temperature.”

Apart from SmartTemp, both grills run on propane and have similar designs regarding storage and side shelves. However, Blackstone launched a pellet-fuel grill if that’s something you’re into. The brand also frequently launches new products and product updates. 

If you’re interested in shopping LoCo’s lineup of griddles, you should know it includes a 36-inch, three-burner griddle and a 16-inch tabletop griddle. The 26-inch, two-burner griddle was convenient for my small backyard patio and had enough space to cook for about five to 10 people at once. If you want the same features as the 26-inch LoCo SmartTemp Griddle but have more outdoor space or plan on cooking for large groups of people frequently, I recommend looking at the 36-inch grill.

If you plan on traveling with your grill or using it for camping or tailgating, the 16-inch griddle packs the power of smart temperature control in a portable grill top. The digital LED display is battery-powered on this smaller model, so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to plug in if you’re on the go or in the wilderness.

Final Verdict

I recommend the LoCo SmartTemp Griddle. As someone who likes following a recipe and cooking with precision, the LoCo flat top grill lets me cook with precise temperature control. It also lets me cook with ease, thanks to the one-touch ignition and double-sided prep space. I did not think I would prefer it over my Blackstone, but some days, I do, simply because I find it easier to ignite and use when I want to cook a quick meal.

Where to Buy the LoCo SmartTemp Griddle

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We Tried It

LoCo SmartTemp Griddle

This flat top griddle's technology cooks food at precise temperatures.

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The 26-inch LoCo SmartTemp Griddle (Series II) retails for $599 and is available for purchase at The Home Depot and other hardware stores, including Ace Hardware. It’s also available at retailers like Target and Wayfair. Cool weather is made for cooking outdoors—make the most of spring and autumn with a LoCo griddle.

FAQ

Who makes LoCo griddles?

LoCo Cookers makes LoCo Griddles and was founded in 2022. The company is based in the state of Georgia. However, the people behind the brand have spent more than 25 years combined in the outdoor cooking industry. LoCo Cookers manufactures griddles, griddle accessories, fryers and more.

How do you season a LoCo griddle?

Here’s how to season a LoCo griddle:

• Clean the griddle surface with a damp cloth
• Preheat LoCo Grill to “sear” for about 15 minutes
• Using a towel and pair of tongs, spread cooking oil evenly across the griddle surface
• Repeat the previous step until the grill is shiny and there are no oil puddles (3-5 times)

Why You Should Trust Us

We’ve reviewed countless grills here at Family Handyman, from this fire pit grill top to this portable grill and every grill in between. We love everything outdoors and consider ourselves experts in outdoor home products such as grills, fire pits, patio furniture and more. And we’re always trying to learn more. That’s why we consulted expert Wes Wright, a mechanical engineer who is constantly testing grills and griddles for CookOut News. 

Not only did I chat with a grill expert, but I also tested the LoCo grill in my backyard on and off for a year, cooking real food for my family and friends. I tested it multiple times before writing this review, and I came back to update it after nearly a year of using the griddle.

The post We Tested the LoCo SmartTemp Griddle and Cooking Has Never Been So Easy appeared first on Family Handyman.

There’s no shortage of camping cots, camping sleeping pads, sleeping bags and other products to stock your setup. I had the opportunity to try the REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3, which is a popular option for drive-in campsites. After thorough testing, I’m ready to share my experience with this cot and explain why it’s not the right sleep system for me specifically, but it very well might be for you.

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We Tried It

REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3

We put the plush cot to the ultimate camping test

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What is the REI Kingdom Cot?

The REI Kingdom Cot is a sleeping cot for camping, and it certainly lives up to its name. This cot is fit for a king or queen, as it’s plush and curved with (for me, a 5-foot-6-inch woman) plenty of room to twist and turn and even let my pup sleep alongside me.

The aluminum and steel frame folds and is topped with a foam mattress upholstered in a water-resistant, durable polyester material. It’s hefty and, for a camping sleep setup, enormous and luxurious.

All of the above is precisely why REI Kingdom Cot is so popular among car campers and simultaneously disregarded completely by backpackers and solo tent campers. So, let’s dig into its features to see if it’s the right buy for you.

REI Kingdom Cot Features

Here’s an in-depth look at the most notable features of the REI Kingdom Cot.

Three Sets of Legs and Swiveling Feet

Unless you are a wizard who scores a perfectly flat campground every trip, you know how uncomfortable it can be to sleep on uneven ground. One of the best features of the Kingdom Cot is the adjustability of the legs and swiveling feet. There are three pairs of legs, and each leg is independently adjustable, so you can set up a stable sleeping platform in almost any situation. Plus, the unit’s six feet swivel, meaning you can work with tough terrain, accommodating rocks, roots and other bumps.

Unfortunately, the legs don’t lock out, which makes for a frustrating setup process, especially if you’re on uneven ground. When I was setting up the cot, one pair of legs would collapse while I tried to unfold the other pair of legs, and vice versa. I ended up flipping the entire cot over, popping out all of the legs, and then flipping the cot right side up.

The legs also don’t lock in the folded position, so they might extend while you’re transporting it, which can be annoying. This is the one major design flaw I found with the Kingdom Cot, and I really hope REI fixes this with the next iteration because it’s such a nice cot, but this flaw is definitely problematic.

Foldable Metal Frame

The REI Kingdom Cot features a frame made of aluminum and steel tubing. It folds, which is completely necessary due to the size of the cot (it measures 82 inches long by 31.5 inches wide by 14 inches tall). Folded, it’s still pretty big, measuring 33 inches long by 32 inches wide by 8.5 inches tall.

Thanks to the thick metal tubing, the frame of the cot should stand the test of time, but it does contribute to the weight of the product. It weighs 20 pounds, which isn’t much in theory, but it’s certainly heavier than many best camping cots.

Plush Padding and Extra-Large Sleeping Platform

Now for the good stuff. This thing is comfortable—and that’s a vast understatement. The Kingdom Cot 3 is easily the most comfortable camping cot I’ve used, due equally in part to the plushness of the foam pad and the large platform. I’m a fairly average-sized human with an athletic build, and I couldn’t believe how roomy this cot felt. My 60-pound dog can easily snuggle up next to me, and there’s still room for me to adjust.

At my size, I’m able to fully extend my arms above my head and still be fully on the platform. Taller and larger people won’t have the same experience, but customer reviews indicate that individuals up to 6 feet 4 inches can sleep comfortably on the Kingdom Cot.

This cot can support a maximum weight of 300 pounds, which is quite high compared to other camping cots. It would be nice to see that number inch up a bit for a cot this size, but it’s understandable because cots, in general, aren’t known to support a lot of weight.

Thick, Durable Fabric

Another noteworthy feature of the REI Kingdom Cot is its upholstery. It’s a tough, water-resistant polyester that couldn’t be easier to brush off. It’s also durable, which I would know because my dog would not stop pawing at it with her razor talons.

While durable is what you need for camping, it does mean that the fabric isn’t soft. It’s a little scratchy against bare skin, so I definitely recommend placing a sheet, quilt or down blanket on it. You can also sleep in your sleeping bag on top of the cot.

How We Tested It

I received the REI Kingdom Cot at my home. It comes completely assembled, so you just have to unfold it to set it up, which I was able to do on my own in just a few minutes. As mentioned, the legs don’t lock out, so it was a little tricky.

I decided to set up the cot in my backyard for a test run. I quickly realized that I couldn’t lug it from my foyer to my yard in the assembled position, so I folded it back up and toted it outside. It was awkward to carry, due to its size and weight (20 pounds), but doable for one person for a short distance.

Once outside, I set up my two-person tent, which is my go-to whether I’m with my partner or just my dog. As soon as the tent was up, I immediately knew the cot wouldn’t fit, but I tried anyway. It most definitely does not fit into a two-person tent. I was disappointed but, honestly, not surprised.

So, I went to the garage and pulled out an old, not-often-used six-person tent to see how the cot would fit there. Man, you could set up three of these cots in a six-person tent, and it would be a grand old time. I think it would be such a fun experience for a group camping trip.

I lounged around on the cot for several hours that day, fiddling with the various adjustments. I read a book, enjoyed a glass of wine and took a short snooze with my dog, Finley. I broke down my setup at nightfall, not wanting to sleep outdoors on the hot, humid Southern night. However, the following night, I decided to sleep on the cot inside to get the full experience—for the story, right?

Pros

• Large sleeping platform
• Comfortable on its own with no need for a sleeping pad
• Extra padding at the top for your head
• Adjustable to achieve a lounging position
• Frame made mostly of aluminum and steel tubing
• Hammock curve is ultra comfy
• Fabric is easy to brush off and clean
• Water-resistant material
• Durable fabric holds up against abrasion (including dog paws)
• Swiveling feet and extendable legs make leveling easy
• 300-pound weight capacity

Cons

• Legs don’t lock
• Doesn’t fit in a two-person tent
• Heavy and a little awkward to move around
• Some plastic components of joints and frame
• Pricey

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Real-life people are reviewing the REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3; the results are mixed. However, the most recent reviews are mostly positive.

One five-star reviewer, Cat S., says it’s “so comfy I feel guilty.” She continues, “It’s big and it’s a bear to pack, but it’s the comfiest cot I’ve slept on. The adjusting headrest is great for lounging and the whole cot is easy to set up/adjust.”

“Just received the Kingdom Cot 3 and have one regret. I regret not ordering sooner,” shares another five-star reviewer. “This is the most comfortable and stable cot I’ve used. I am prior service and remember the narrow standard-issue cot. This is not that cot! This cot feels more like glamping. It is made with a heavy-duty, insulated fabric that seems to work well in a variety of climates. I especially like the option of elevating the head and torso portion. The head of the cot contains additional padding that acts like a pillow. I love everything about this cot!”

Most of the negative callouts are in line with what I mentioned in this review: The cot is heavy, large and awkward to carry, and it’s frustrating that the legs don’t lock out. Older reviews from several years ago are largely negative, but based on my experience with the cot and more recent customer reviews, it seems like REI addressed most of the previous customer concerns.

Product Comparison

Let’s look at how the REI Kingdom Cot compares to another popular, plush option: the Coleman ComfortSmart Cot, which is a top pick on our guide to the best camping cots.

The ComfortSmart cot also supports up to 300 pounds and individuals up to 6 feet 6 inches. It features a steel frame with pop-out legs driven by springs. Like the Kingdom Cot, it’s ideal for people who drive into their campsites because it’s rather bulky even when folded.

This Coleman cot comes with a foam pad upholstered in water-resistant nylon, which you place onto the trampoline-like nylon platform. It’s substantially cheaper than the REI cot, at about $125, which makes it a smart option for value shoppers. The REI Kingdom cot is on the expensive side, but I believe the price is right for individuals who prioritize comfort over space and weight.

Final Verdict

The REI Kingdom Cot is ideal for drive-in campsites. It’s a luxurious, comfortable sleep system that’ll work great for individuals who pack their gear in the car and tent camp at an easily accessible site.

You’ll need a minimum of a three-person tent to fit this cot. The Kingdom Cot isn’t the right fit for people concerned with weight and space, so backpackers and solo tent campers should skip this one. That said, if you’re not short on space and you can accept the heavier weight, you won’t regret buying the REI Kingdom Cot 3.

Where to Buy the REI Kingdom Cot

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We Tried It

REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3

This popular cot is perfect for drive-in campsites

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The REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3 is available for $199 on the brand’s website and in its stores. While it may not have been the right fit for me personally, that’s the cool thing about products—there’s something for everyone, and this cot just might be meant for you.

FAQ

Are camping cots comfortable to sleep on?

Like all sleep systems, some camp cots are comfortable, and some are not. Generally, though, they’re more comfortable than a sleeping pad or just a sleeping bag since you’re elevated off the ground.

How do you open the REI Kingdom Cot 3?

The REI Kingdom Cot 3 features a tri-fold design. You simply unfold the two flaps, extend the legs and voilà, you have a cot fit for a king or queen.

Are cots good for side sleepers?

I personally think cots are the best camping sleep system for side sleepers since they elevate you. This means your hips and shoulders won’t dig into the ground, which can happen to side sleepers even when they use a sleeping pad.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our shopping team consists of dedicated writers, editors and shopping experts who are serious about finding the best deals and making smart purchases. Our contributors are experts and enthusiasts in their fields; the author of this piece is a full-time vanlifer who has spent many years tent camping, too. Plus, we actually test what we recommend, and if we don’t like it, we say that.

The post I’m an Avid Camper, and the REI Kingdom Cot Provides a Luxurious Sleep Situation appeared first on Family Handyman.

I had a couple of diving and snorkeling excursions coming up at some Central Florida springs and in the Florida Keys, so I decided to take the box along with me as often as it made sense. (Spoiler: I ended up liking the box so much I even take it out for a simple beach day now.)

In my in-depth North Face Base Camp review, I cover all of the pros, cons and need-to-know information about this popular gear box.

What is The North Face Base Camp gear box?

The North Face gear box is exactly what it sounds like: a box that holds gear. But this isn’t your average plastic, snap-lid storage box you can pick up on a whim at The Home Depot. This box was built with purpose.

It’s clear that the Base Camp box was thoughtfully crafted with outdoorsy people in mind. For starters, the box is constructed of The North Face’s Base Camp material, a well-known and well-loved textile among outdoor enthusiasts. This material is 300-denier polyester with a durable, water-resistant thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) coating that resists abrasion and tearing and is ultra-easy to clean.

Additionally, the Base Camp box proves that The North Face knows its customers, thanks to its collapsible and stackable properties. When not in use, the box folds down and flattens out to be no thicker than a good book. This is a big bonus for those of us who live in camper vans or RVs (or, like me, tiny studio apartments to make it easier to fund an adventurous lifestyle).

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The North Face Base Camp Gear Box Features

You might be thinking, “OK, so? A box is a box.” As an avid outdoors person who is constantly packing, unpacking and storing things, I’m here to tell you that isn’t true! Let’s take a more in-depth look at the features of the Base Camp box and how it makes outdoor adventures easier.

Sturdy Frame

The Base Camp gear box sports a lightweight, yet durable, metal frame consisting of two fold-in arms. When the box is in its collapsed position, you simply push each metal arm downward and outward to pop the frame into place.

Collapsible

As mentioned above, the frame collapses so the box compresses and lies flat when you’re not using it. This makes it fantastic for people living in small spaces—I can easily slide the collapsed box under my bed or couch when I don’t need it. To collapse the frame, all you have to do is pull the nylon tab on each metal arm. (When I first got the box, I didn’t notice the tabs, and it was difficult to pop the arms out of place. But with the tabs, it couldn’t be easier, so make sure to look for them.)

Stackable

In addition to being collapsible, The North Face Base Camp box is stackable whether it’s collapsed or filled with gear. The top of the box is broad, flat and smooth, making it easy to place another box on top (or really anything, for that matter).

Lightweight

The medium-sized box weighs just 4 pounds, 1.8 ounces, and the large-sized box weighs slightly more at 5 pounds, 8.2 ounces. For reference, this plastic gear box with a lid that can hold the same amount as the medium box (about 15 gallons or 58 liters) weighs 5 pounds, 2 ounces, so not only is it heavier, but it’s also more difficult to carry due to the hard plastic and handle design.

Dual Handles

Speaking of being difficult to carry, the Base Camp box won’t be: It features tote handles and fabric side handles, so you have multiple comfortable grip options for transportation. In my experience, it’s easier to use the tote handles when you’re alone and the side handles if you have another person to help. That said, I was able to use the side handles on my own, too.

Durable

Perhaps the biggest draw to The North Face Base Camp gear box is its 300-denier polyester and TPU construction. This combination of textiles is ultra durable and abrasion-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about scuffing, ripping or tearing the fabric.

One thing I will call out about the fabric is that it can hold onto smells. I left some damp beach towels in this box for about 24 hours (oops) and after removing them, I noticed that the interior of the box continued to smell mildewy until I wiped it clean with antimicrobial cleaner. So it seems to be an easy fix, but it’s something to be aware of.

Weather-Resistant

The Base Camp material is also resistant to water; I know this because I got caught in a torrential downpour at the beach (#MiamiThings). Thanks to the TPU construction, my beach towels, phone, wallet and, most importantly, snacks, were safe and sound.

That said, because this box features a zippered closure and a canvas bottom (though lined), I wouldn’t recommend leaving it full of items in a weather-exposed area. While the fabric is water-resistant, the box isn’t entirely waterproof, and extended exposure to precipitation could result in your gear being compromised.

100% Recycled Fabric

According to the The North Face website, these gear boxes are made of 100% recycled material. As someone who loves the outdoors and strives to protect it, this is a really important component.

Interior Storage Pockets

The Base Camp gear box features multiple interior storage pockets to better organize your gear, no matter the adventure. There are four mesh drop-in pockets along the sidewalls, plus a fifth zippered mesh pocket on the interior of the lid. There’s even a Velcro pocket on the interior of the bottom of the box. I haven’t found a use for that bottom pocket yet, but I’m sure it’ll come in handy at some point—maybe for dirty hiking clothes?

Outer Storage

What’s more is that the box has additional outer storage. Just beneath the zipper on the exterior, you’ll find wraparound daisy-chain storage links made of woven nylon. You can clip carabiners to these for easy access to things like a headlamp, flashlight, car keys, dog collar or first aid kit. And on one side of the box (the left, if The North Face logo is facing you), there’s a drop-in pocket with a flap closure. I’ve found this side pocket to be useful for doggy bags, sunglasses, snacks and my wallet.

Gear View Window

You can see what’s in your box without unzipping it, which is helpful when you have multiple boxes stacked, thanks to the view window on the front of the box. I will say it’s still a little tough to see through the panel, but if you look hard enough, you can do it.

Outer ID Label

On the front exterior, The North Face added an ID label, where you can slip in an ID card just like you’d put in a luggage tag on your suitcase.

Two Size Options

The Base Camp gear box is available in a medium size (holding about 58 liters) and a large size (holding about 86 liters).

Zippered Closure

When you’ve got everything packed up and it’s time to hit the road, secure your gear with the box’s durable zipper. The North Face included zipper grips for ultimate ease.

How We Tested It

At the time of writing, I’ve been using and testing The North Face Base Camp gear box for several weeks. I used it to pack my gear for several outdoor adventures, including free diving and swimming excursions in Central Florida, a 10.5-mile river kayaking trip, and a snorkeling trip in the Florida Keys. I also used the box in place of a tote bag for beach days at my favorite local spots. I also tested the box in my home with various camping gear, packing and unpacking with various items to see how much (and what types of gear) it could conveniently and easily fit.

During my testing, I made sure to take note of several factors, including:

• Ease of use
• Comfort while toting the box
• Capacity
• Weather-resistance and durability
• Convenience
• Storage of the box itself when not in use

Ultimately, I’d recommend this gear box as a general storage item, but not necessarily something to take with you on active excursions. For instance, the Base Camp box was perfect for neatly transporting my gear to the drop-in for my kayaking trip, but it’s too bulky to actually bring on a kayak. It also proved to be the ideal fit for beach days, and while I haven’t been able to take it car camping yet (it’s too hot and buggy in South Florida), this gives me an inkling that it’s the optimal fit for that, too.

Pros of North Face Base Camp Gear Box

• Stackable and collapsible
• Abrasion-resistant, durable fabric
• Holds 58 or 86 liters, depending on size
• Water-resistant
• Easy to wipe down
• Durable, easy-to-close zipper
• Multiple interior storage pockets
• Exterior storage pockets
• Exterior daisy-chain storage
• Gear view window
• ID card slot
• Dual handles (tote and side)
• Lighter in weight than standard hard plastic storage box

Cons of North Face Base Camp Gear Box

• Expensive
• Fabric can hold onto icky smells (but seems easy to get rid of)
• Bottom of the box is a canvas/woven material, which is not water-resistant (but the interior is protected by liners)

FAQ

What do I use my gear box for?

Use your Base Camp gear box to transport gear, clothing and food for any purpose. You can also use it for storage of items in your home or garage.

Is The North Face gear box worth it?

If you are looking for a durable, water-resistant, convenient gear box to make packing easy, yes, The North Face gear box is worth it.

What’s special about The North Face Base Camp box?

This gear box is designed to hold a lot of gear and keep it safe during unideal weather conditions, but also to pack down and be out of the way when not in use. It’s lightweight and easier to carry than a standard hard plastic gear box.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Customer reviews are largely positive. On The North Face website, customers praise the box for “perfect execution” and being a “year-round adventure solution.”

One reviewer writes, “I always struggle with organizing my gear for specific activities. A soft duffel bag makes it hard to dig to the bottom while plastic bins just fall apart after a short while. This box is amazing. It has SO MUCH storage.”

“I use it for backcountry skiing in the winter, where it’ll accommodate all my gear (ski boots included) in a neat and organized way,” the reviewer continued. “In the summer, I switch to mountain biking. I’ve also flown with it for a ski trip and while it’s not perfect for carrying over long distances, I thought the organization more than made up for the carry. Also, it looks great. I have it in black”

Many customers wrote that they’ve already ordered a second box or plan to, which tells us a lot.

Product Comparison

The North Face has an entire line of Base Camp storage, with one of the most popular items being the Base Camp duffel. This item has been around for a long time and it consistently receives high praise. We can see why: It’s made of an even more durable material than the box.

The duffel’s body boasts 1,000-denier polyester construction with a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coating for water resistance. You can carry it like a tote or backpack, and it’s available in sizes extra-small (31 liters) to XXL (150 liters).

Customers call this duffel “nearly indestructible,” and several reviewers say they regret not buying it sooner—and spending their money on cheaper products.

Both the Base Camp duffel and the Base Camp gear box are reliable purchases, depending on what you’re looking for. The duffel might be a better option if you need something more flexible that can compress down, whereas the gear box is a better fit if you prefer rigid storage and easy access to the entire contents.

Final Verdict

After weeks of testing, it’s clear that The North Face Base Camp gear box is a solid piece of gear. It has proven durable, weather-resistant, spacious and convenient, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for storage solutions for activities that involve car travel.

Where to Buy The North Face Base Camp Gear Box

The North Face gear box is available for $175 at Backcountry, Moosejaw and Public Lands. If you’re planning on getting outdoors or camping soon, I recommend snagging the new Base Camp gear box ahead of time.

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The post We Tried the North Face Base Camp Gear Box – Your Ideal Adventure Partner appeared first on Family Handyman.

What is the Amazon camping stove?

This Amazon camping stove is a small, portable cooker that connects to 7/16 thread butane and propane fuel canisters. It delivers a blaze that’s ideal for cooking up almost any camp food, including sizzling soups and perfectly seared burgers. Because the camping stove is small enough to fit in a palm, it packs up easily for on-the-go meals.

A refined aluminum alloy body resists rust, so this camp stove is even safe to use in the rain. On the side, a built-in flame control valve regulates the amount of heat used. That means different dishes can cook at different temperatures. The camp stove also boasts a built-in ignitor, so there’s no need to pack lighters or matches.

10.9936% OFF$6.99 at Amazon

How to Use the Amazon Camping Stove

Using the Amazon camp stove is incredibly easy. First, unfold the camp stove to reveal the four legs. That’s where the pot will balance during cooking. Then, simply screw it on a butane or propane canister to secure it. Once secure, slightly open the regulator to let out a thin stream of gas. Click the ignitor to start the stove, and voila! Because it’s simple to operate, it makes a great gift for outdoor lovers.

We love that this Amazon camp stove is easier to start and more portable than stoves like the Biolite camp stove, while still retaining most of the same functionality.

Pros

• Portable size
• Lightweight
• Easy to set up
• Inexpensive at only $11

Cons

• Cooking surface is small

What Reviewers Are Saying

“I researched several camping stoves before purchasing this one, even asking in several hiking communities for recommendations,” notes a verified purchaser. They write, “Several brands were recommended, but many people had this one and offered a few tips for it as well! I was skeptical because this was so much cheaper than the other stoves, but I finally bit the bullet and just bought it.

We just used it for our first hiking trip and I’m very happy with this one! We have a lot of money invested in our backpacking gear, but this goes to show you don’t have to spend $80 for the same ignition piece. It screwed on easily to the propane tank and turned on effortlessly.

You can adjust the flame, the more you turn it, the higher the flame. When we used it this past weekend, the weather was very windy and the flame stayed strong. Once you screw the igniter onto the tank, the arms slide around into place. Then there are pieces at the top that flip out to keep your pot securely on top.

The one recommendation from the hiking community was to bring a lighter just in case it doesn’t light on its own. Some have experienced this issue. Personally, I have not used it enough to have this issue but I keep a lighter in my pack anyway.

Overall, I’d buy this again. It works great, it’s very light/portable and the best bang for your buck.”

Where to Buy the Amazon Camping Stove

The Amazon camping stove is available on Amazon for a very reasonable $11. It comes with a handy storage box that protects it during hikes and backcountry excursions. Pick one up today and start cooking on the trail in no time!

10.9936% OFF$6.99 at Amazon

The post We Found the Best, Most Affordable Camping Stove—It’s Only $11 appeared first on Family Handyman.

Our best overall pick is the Westinghouse 4,500-watt inverter generator. It’s able to run up to 18 hours on a 3.4-gallon tank with dual fuel technology. With its low oil shutdown, fuel is conserved for efficient usage, so you’re always able to get the most out of your generator. The electric start button makes it overly easy to crank up the power and turn it off, which reaches up to 260 feet away. If the electric remote ever were to have issues, there is a recoil option to start the generator.

“I was looking for a generator to run my travel trailer and came across this generator. I’m so glad I chose this one! It’s very quiet (for a generator!) and is so easy to start. It is a little over 100 pounds, but my husband and I can easily pick it up to carry it and lift into our truck bed,” shares Sharon L. Hauht, a verified purchaser.

Best Budget Inverter Generator

Westinghouse 2,200-Watt Inverter Generator

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If you need a wallet-friendly option that won’t leave you hanging, the Westinghouse 2,200-watt inverter generator can be your go-to. With its long run time of 12 hours, you can use this generator for residential or camping uses. Packing 120 volts and 2,200 watts, this inverter generator has a powerful engine and four outlets to connect to your devices or electrical panel. It runs on gas and can hold 1.14 gallons at a time. Plus, it’s a “super-quiet” generator, which means you don’t have to worry about interrupted sleep.

“We lost power a week after I received this inverter. It took less than five minutes to run an extension cord from the inverter to the sump pump, and two pulls to start it for the first time. It works great, and is extremely quiet, so the neighbors won’t be mad when I’m running it!” writes five-star reviewer, Joseph M.

Best Inverter Generator for RVs

Champion Power Equipment 4,500-Watt Inverter Generator

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Going camping in an RV? Make sure you bring along this inverter generator from Champion Power Equipment. Said to be “RV-ready,” this generator contains 4,500 watts and 120 volts of power to keep your camping vehicle running smoothly. Compared to other inverter generators, this model has a longer run time than most, with up to 14 hours when the 2.3-gallon tank is full. Other notable features include its two outlets, three USB adapters, a side handle for easy transportation and its clean electricity (less than 3% THD).

“I’m just amazed at how well this generator works,” writes five-star reviewer, Alison Gordon. “It’s very easy to start, very easy to maintain, and it’s impressively quiet. We were able to run it overnight with no issue to keep the AC running in our camper. I didn’t have to get up in the night to refuel. I’m a fan!”

Best Inverter Generator for Home

DuroMax Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

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Experiencing blackouts is very inconvenient, but having the DuroMax Dual Fuel Inverter Generator keeps your home functioning during a storm. With its peak of 9,000 watts and 7,600 running watts, all of your home essentials can run for more than 10 hours, making a solid generator choice for your home.

The included wheel kit makes it easy to cart this 237-pound generator around your home or campsite. Its dual-fuel technology allows you to use propane or gas, and it has an automatic shutoff that kicks in when the oil gets low. Another high-quality feature is the LCD screen that shows hours run and load level.

Best Inverter Generator for Sustainability

Wen 3,800-Watt Inverter Generator

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This inverter generator from Wen knows how to conserve fuel and energy, which is what you will need when you take this generator camping. For its compact size, this generator produces 3,800 watts and 120 volts of power for your RV or tailgating needs. Thanks to its automatic fuel shutoff, this generator conserves gas by using what’s left in the carburetor before shutting off to maximize its lifespan. There’s also a fuel display on the generator, so you can always see when you’re starting to run low. This clean energy generator prevents damage from occurring when used to power smart devices and laptops.

“I bought this for my travel trailer and have zero complaints about how it runs. Extremely quiet. I’ve told everyone I know about this unit and now I’m telling you. Great machine for the price,” shares rgentry, a verified purchaser.

Best Portable Inverter Generator

Champion Power Equipment Open Frame Inverter Generator

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The Champion Power Equipment Open Frame Inverter Generator makes staying powered simple for camping trips, worksites or home use. Thanks to innovative technology that minimizes noise, it’s 50% quieter and 20% lighter than traditional generators with the same wattage.

Equipped with two large side wheels and a foldable handle, it’s easy to move around. Running on oil, the generator includes a sensor that alerts you when its 1.2-quart tank is low, ensuring you’re always aware when it’s time for a refill.

Types of Inverter Generators

Inverter generators come in various sizes, each designed for specific uses. Some are ideal for handheld devices, while others can power larger systems like RVs. “The size generator really depends on how many devices you need to power or if you have larger appliances,” says Tim Hodnicki, a 30-year veteran electrician. A generator with 5,000 to 7,500 watts is necessary for most homes to run essential appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, lights and sump pumps. If you need to power more or larger appliances, a generator with higher wattage might be required.

Regardless of the type of inverter generator you select, always place it in an open, well-ventilated area—at least 20 feet away from your home. This precaution ensures harmful carbon monoxide (CO) emissions don’t accumulate, protecting your household from potential CO poisoning.

• Compact Inverter Generators are ideal for charging small devices like phones, producing about 1,000 watts.
• Small Inverter Generators are great for camping or fishing trips, providing 1,500 to 2,500 watts of power.
• Medium Inverter Generators are suitable for RVs and campers, offering 2,500 to 5,000 watts.
• Large Inverter Generators are best for home use during blackouts. They produce more than 5,000 watts and can power essential appliances.

What to Consider When Buying an Inverter Generator

When shopping for an inverter generator, it’s crucial to assess your specific needs before purchasing. Power output is the key factor—ensure the generator can handle the demands of your devices and appliances.

A smaller, portable option is suitable for powering small items like a toaster or slow cooker while camping. However, a much larger generator is required if you need to power an entire RV, camper, or home. Additionally, regular maintenance is important for extending the generator’s lifespan and efficiency, so be prepared to keep up with upkeep to ensure optimal performance.

Power

When calculating the total wattage of appliances and devices you plan to run simultaneously, ensure the generator can handle both their starting and running wattage. A 30-amp (3,600-watt, 120-volt) inverter generator can power an AC unit but likely won’t support much beyond that. If you need to power your whole house in an emergency—including AC, lights and a refrigerator—you’ll need a generator capable of producing closer to 10,000 watts or more.

Efficiency

“When it comes to inverters versus standard generators, the main tradeoff is efficiency versus cost,” says Luis Montes, a 15-year veteran of the gas and electric industries. Standard generators are cheaper but much less efficient than inverters, consuming significantly more fuel to deliver the same power. Inverter generators, on the other hand, can run longer because they burn fuel more slowly. In fact, inverters can be up to 40% more efficient than standard generators operating on the same fuel and power output.

Output Stability

“Inverters provide cleaner, more stable power, superior for sensitive electronics,” says Montes. He suggests that an inverter generator’s electrical output is as stable as household electricity. Standard generators, however, can experience power output spikes that pose risks to sensitive electronics, potentially causing overloads or damage. If you’re concerned about protecting your devices, an inverter generator is likely the best choice. You can also use surge protectors as an additional safeguard.

Size and Portability

When selecting an inverter generator, it’s crucial to consider size and weight, especially if you need portability. Inverter generators tend to be lighter and more portable than standard models. Many include wheels for added mobility. “I prefer wheeled models under 100 pounds for portability, particularly in the 2,000-3,500 watt range,” says Montes. Smaller generators are ideal for camping or running a single appliance, while larger inverters—designed for higher power output—are less portable but better suited for emergency home use, where they can remain stationary.

Remember that a generator’s size and weight are proportional to its power capabilities. The higher the wattage, the larger and heavier the generator. On average, inverter generators weigh less than 100 pounds, whereas standard generators can be significantly heavier, sometimes reaching hundreds of pounds.

Endurance and Runtime

Inverter generators have a clear advantage over standard models in terms of efficiency, including longer runtimes on a single tank of fuel. However, some inverter generators are more efficient than others, so it’s essential to review the manufacturer’s specifications for details on fuel consumption. Prioritize generators with extended run times to reduce the need for frequent refueling, especially during extended power outages.

It’s also important to remember that a generator’s endurance correlates directly with its power output. For example, a generator running at 50% load might last 14 hours, but that duration will significantly decrease if it operates near or at its maximum load.

Noise Level

Fuel Type

“Fuel efficiency is another important factor,” says Montes. “One project might save $100/month by switching to propane from gas.” When choosing between gasoline, propane or dual-fuel generators, consider availability and convenience. Propane generally costs less but can be harder to acquire. Gasoline is more expensive and fluctuates in price, but it’s more widely available.

Additional Features

“Bonus features like electric starts, low-oil alarms and outlets can be tailored to your equipment,” says Montes. These features might not be essential but can certainly influence your decision, especially if they enhance a model’s convenience.

Many inverter generators also come with crucial safety features. These include automatic shutoff when fuel is low, overload protection (similar to a home’s breaker) and carbon monoxide detection, which shuts the generator off if it detects excessive CO2 levels.

Why You Should Trust Us

Ashlyn Needham is a freelance writer and home decor expert with over six years of experience. She has created home-related content featured in The Spruce, HomeLight, Wayfair and Family Handyman. Ashlyn focuses on designing functional homes and inspires readers to do the same.

For this article, we consulted Tim Hodnicki, an electrician with 30 years of experience who currently serves as president of a top-rated electrical company in Easthampton, MA. We also spoke with Scott Rounds, CEO and president of Sunray Roofing and Solar, who brings over two decades of experience in the construction industry. His leadership blends innovation with sustainability.

Finally, we contacted Luis Montes, a 15-year veteran in the gas and electric industries. He is a structural engineer and heavy-duty equipment expert, currently serving as Chief Editor at Fortis HD, a company that simplifies the procurement of heavy equipment parts across America.

How We Found the Best Inverter Generators

To find the six best quiet and efficient inverter generators, we reviewed recommendations from industry professionals, focusing on key features such as run time, lifespan, and capability to power a home. We also explored maintenance tips to ensure reliability over time. After consulting with electricians to understand which features make an inverter generator truly stand out and gathering their personal recommendations, we turned to customer reviews to see what shoppers appreciated most about each product.

FAQ

What size inverter generator do I need for my RV?

When choosing an inverter generator for your RV, there are several factors to consider, such as the RV’s size, your power needs and how often you plan to use it. A 2,000- to 2,500-watt generator can handle most essentials, including lights and appliances, but not an air conditioner. To power an AC unit, you’ll need at least a 3,600-watt generator. Running everything simultaneously—like the AC, appliances and electronics—would require a larger generator, closer to 6,000 watts or more.

How quiet is an inverter generator compared to a standard generator?

Due to their smaller engines and more compact designs, inverter generators are significantly quieter than standard generators. A typical inverter generator produces around 60-65 dB, comparable to a normal conversation or background music. On the other hand, a standard generator with a larger fuel tank and engine may produce about 75 dB, similar to the noise level of a vacuum cleaner or window air conditioner.

Can an inverter generator run an air conditioner?

Yes, an inverter generator can run an air conditioner, provided the generator’s power output is sufficient. To handle the starting and running power needs of a standard RV air conditioner, you’ll need a generator rated at least 3,600 watts.

The post What Is the Best Bang for Your Buck Inverter Generator to Run Your Home? Check Out These Models appeared first on Family Handyman.

And one of my favorite accessories is the coffee mug. In my kitchen, you’ll find cutesy mugs personalized with movie quotes from a throwback era or popular lyrics from a ’90s earworm. Adding a new mug to my collection has become somewhat of a pastime. So, when Yeti released a line of stackable mugs, I knew they needed to be the new staples under my coffee machine. After sipping on the Yeti Rambler Stackable Mugs I can safely say they fit perfectly inside my Goldilocks Zone.

What are the Yeti Stackable Cups?

The Yeti stackable cup is a mug you didn’t know you needed. Brought to you by the brand known for its ramblers and coolers—two of the best Yeti products around—the stackable mugs are much smaller but still ideal for a morning brew at home or on the go. Alongside tumblers, bottles and travel mugs, these cups are the latest editions in the Yeti coffee lineup.

Choose between a 4- or 6-ounce pair that you can stack for easy storage in your Yeti Loadout GoBox. The 4-ounce mugs are handle-free, while the 6-ounce versions feature a firm-grip handle for easy toting. Both options come in eight colorways, including rescue red and camp green.

Moreover, the mugs utilize the DuraSlip ceramic lining that the brand is known for, adding to the durability of the insulated stainless steel. Basically, these mugs don’t just look good—they’re tough, too. Additionally, the interior features a nonstick coating that keeps coffee stains at bay. But the stackable mugs are also dishwasher-safe, so you can spend less time cleaning up.

Their small capacity is intentional, as the barista-friendly mugs fit under most espresso machines. Whether sitting at your kitchen island or in the back of your camper with your Yeti Roadie, these mugs are the perfect warm-beverage companions.

Pros

• Fits under most espresso machines
• Stackable for easy storage
• Dishwasher-safe
• DuraSlip ceramic lining
• Firm-grip handle
• Kitchen-grade stainless steel
• Puncture- and rust-resistant
• BPA-free
• 5-year warranty
• Available in six core colors and two limited-edition colors
• Available in two sizes: 4 ounce and 6 ounce

Cons

• Cups don’t come with lids (but the 6-ounce mug is compatible with the 10-ounce MagSlider Lid, sold separately)
• Mugs don’t keep coffee as hot as larger tumblers

VIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Yeti Stackable Cups

This pack of two ultra-durable mugs is sized for strong brews and perfect pours.

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$35 at Amazon

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Why I Love the Yeti Stackable Cups

I simply can’t get enough of these perfectly sized mugs. In the morning, I brew a 12-ounce macchiato or cappuccino in my regular coffee cup. By the afternoon, I need a pick-me-up, but I don’t want to overload on caffeine. That’s where these mugs shine. I place my Yeti stackable cup under the machine and make an espresso that powers me through the rest of the evening.

Furthermore, when I want to have some fun on the weekends, I opt for a creamy affogato with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a hefty pouring of espresso. I make enough for two so that both my partner and I can enjoy this dessert straight out of our Yeti mugs.

These won’t hold as much coffee as their larger tumbler counterparts, like the leakproof BruMate Era. However, what the Yeti stackable cups lack in size, they make up for in convenience. Pack these mugs for your next outdoor adventure with grab-and-go ease. Since they come as a pair, you have 12 usable ounces to brew an Americano in one and a Ristretto in another.

As it’s not a large size, I don’t have to worry about my coffee getting cold before I can finish drinking it. Plus, the insulation keeps my beverage hot just as long as I need it to, and I can always add a compatible lid to the 6-ounce mug to maximize heat retention. If you fancy cozying up with the warmth of your mug, then consider the 4-ounce option that’s handle-free.

But Don’t Take My Word for It!

Overall, reviewers on both the Yeti website and Amazon are taken with the Yeti stackable cups for their coffee and tea.

“Absolutely LOVE these small mugs. They are made so well (of course) and are just the right size for our nightly tea before bed,” writes Sanaz S. on the Yeti website. “Totally different vibe than our rough and ready Yeti products, but still tough and durable, yet cute!”

Chrissy Ann writes, “These are the perfect size for a double espresso and cream. Bought these for my husband for Valentine’s Day not realizing the package came with two mugs so very happy.”

And Joyce Dem shares in her five-star review, “These are too cute and functional. The coffee stays hot way longer and the handle design is comfortable. We bought them for camping but now use them every day.”

“Very nice. I really just love them. I was so excited to get them. They were much cuter and nicer than I imagined. Very pleased,” writes a verified Amazon purchaser. “I hope Yeti continues to make more coffee, bar and camping-style items. Huge fan of compact, efficient and durable on-the-go items.”

Where to Buy Yeti Stackable Cups

VIA MERCHANT

Editor's Pick

Yeti Stackable Cups

The Yeti Rambler 6-ounce stackable mugs are just the right size for an Americano in the kitchen and a Cortado at the campsite.

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$35 at Amazon

Shop on Public Lands

Shop on Scheels

Find the Yeti stackable cup on the brand’s website and start sipping your favorite flat white or doppio. The mugs are also available on Amazon, Public Lands, Scheels and Dick’s Sporting Goods for $35 per pair. These mugs aren’t too big or too small—they’re just right for an at-home espresso or cortado on the go, so get into your Goldilocks era!

The post Yeti’s New Stackable Cups Are the Perfect Camp Coffee Accessory appeared first on Family Handyman.

Thankfully, there are plenty of portable power station options that can help extend the life of a van battery, one being the Jackery Explorer 500W Portable Power Station, which I own and have used since 2022.

This handy portable generator was my only source of electricity during a 12-week car camping trip across the U.S. in 2022 (when the engine wasn’t running, of course). I’ve used it as a power source during weather-related outages when living in a traditional home, and I now use the Jackery 500 as a supplement to the stock electrical system in my Winnebago Revel.

In my Jackery generator review, I detail the ins and outs of this portable power station and describe its features and limitations. By the end, you’ll know if this is the right portable generator for you.

What is the Jackery Generator?

Jackery is a well-known brand among outdoor enthusiasts for its portable battery generators and portable solar panels. The brand manufactures a range of portable power setups, from tiny 250-watt portable chargers to ultra-powerful 3000-watt power stations.

This Jackery generator, in particular, is a lower-range model in the company’s lineup, but it’s capable of continuously outputting 500 watts, with 1000-watt surge capabilities. Plus, it supports multi-appliance charging and is lightweight and portable, making it a great all-rounder for outdoor recreationalists.

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We Tried It

Jackery Explorer 500

The Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station charges low to high-power appliances for long hours. It's ideal for outdoor adventurers and emergency home backup solutions.

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$499 at Amazon

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Jackery Generator Features

Let’s dive into the most important features of the Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station.

518 Watt-hours, 500W Inverter, 1000W Surge

First, some definitions that will help you understand the most important specifications of the Jackery generator:

• Watt (W): The measure of the rate of energy transfer over a unit of time; one watt equals one joule (J) per second. Practically, this means that the higher the wattage of a power bank, the more powerful it is.
• Watt-hour (Wh): The unit of energy equivalent to one watt of power expended for one hour.
• Surge: The amount of energy, in watts, that a device (in this case a power bank) is capable of putting out for short periods.

So, at 518Wh, the Jackery generator is capable of continuously outputting 518 watts per hour. If what you have plugged into the Jackery forces it to output 1000 watts or more for more than a brief moment, the Jackery will shut down.

Regarding modern portable generators, a 500-watt unit is on the lower end. These days, portable power stations can support Watt-hour ratings of more than 3,000. The trade-off, of course, is that more powerful units cost more money and are larger, heavier and bulkier.

For my purposes, a 500Wh unit with a 1000W surge perfectly blends portability and power. For charging small electronics like cell phones, laptops, earbuds and headlamps, you don’t need much more than that.

Multi-Appliance Charging

The Jackery Explorer 500 sports one 120-volt AC outlet (standard household outlet), three USB-A ports, one 12-volt DC outlet (cigarette lighter port AKA car charging port) and two 6-millimeter DC outlets. This range of ports allows you to charge multiple devices in the Jackery simultaneously. As I write this, the Jackery is charging my laptop in the AC outlet, my iPhone in one of the USB-A ports and my Bluetooth earbuds in another USB-A port.

I do wish the Jackery 500 had a second 120-volt AC outlet because I have a few devices that don’t disconnect from their charging block (like iPhone chargers do) and require the AC outlet. If more than one AC device needs to charge, they have to take turns.

Pass-Through Charging

Pass-through charging allows you to charge a device or multiple devices while the power station itself is charging. So, I can plug my laptop into the Jackery and plug the Jackery into a 12-volt outlet in my van, and charge both while driving.

Three Ways to Recharge

When the Jackery needs charging, you have three options: plug it into an AC outlet; plug it into a 12-volt DC outlet; or use a compatible Jackery solar panel to charge it.

I always use the 12-volt option in my van and charge the Jackery while driving. The AC option requires a two-part charger, as the Jackery doesn’t directly support AC charging. Both the 12-volt cord and two-piece AC cord are included in the purchase of a Jackery Explorer 500.

A note about charging times: According to the product specifications on the Jackery website, it takes 7.5 hours to get a full charge from 0% when using the AC or DC cord and 9.5 hours when using a solar panel connection.

Frankly, those charge times are outrageous in today’s world. Other similar power stations boast recharge times of less than three hours for all charging options, so I’d like to see Jackery get up to par with future iterations of the Explorer 500.

That said, I never realized the unit took so long to recharge until I read those specs. After using the Jackery for two years, I have yet to be frustrated with the charge time. I may have just never noticed since I charge the unit while I’m driving. But this is something to consider in your product search.

Battery Management System Protection

The Jackery’s BMS (battery management system), pure sine wave inverter and temperature sensors protect against short circuits, overcharge, overvoltages and freezing or overheating.

Large Working Temperature Range

The Jackery Explorer 500 is capable of both inputting charges and outputting charges in a temperature range of 14 degrees to 104 degrees. This is not the broadest working temperature range across portable power stations today, but I believe it covers all of the bases for most people.

Backlit LCD

The simple backlit LCD allows you to see the current charge status of your Jackery, as well as current input and output.

Flashlight and Easy-Carry Handle

The Jackery generator is easy to transport thanks to its light weight of about 13 pounds and the handle over the top of the unit. Additionally, the power station features a flashlight, which is handy if you’re using the unit at night or transporting it to a hike-in campsite.

How We Tested the Jackery Generator

This is less of an “I tried it” situation and more of an “I use this every day of my life” situation. My Jackery 500 is like a trusty, reliable friend at this point. I know I can count on it to do what I need it to do: extend the life of my van’s battery by taking some of the strain.

I use the Jackery primarily for charging small-to-medium electronics: my cell phone, my dog’s e-collar, my laptop, DSLR battery, Bluetooth earbuds, my GPS watch and the tiny portable charger I bring with me on outdoor adventures to keep my phone charged.

Though all of these items are small and require relatively small amounts of power to charge, recharging them over and over again over a few days amounts to quite a lot of juice. And, the less juice I take from my van’s battery, the longer I can run essentials like the heater, fridge, fan and water pump—resulting in the capability to stay off-grid for longer periods.

Depending on how many devices I’m charging and how frequently, the Jackery 500 generator lasts a few days up to a week from a full charge. If I don’t use it at all, the charge remains at 100% until I do—that’s one of my favorite things about this generator. It doesn’t lose its charge when it’s dormant.

Charging the Jackery

To recharge the Jackery, I plug it into a 12-volt outlet in my van while driving. When the engine is running, both the Jackery and the integrated 320-Ah battery charge up, and by the time I reach my next destination, both are revived.

The Jackery can also be recharged via a 120-volt outlet or with a Jackery solar panel. I own the 220-watt Jackery solar panel but didn’t bring it in my van for the sake of space. I’m beginning to regret that decision, as I realize how nice it would be to set up the generator and solar panel outside while at camp and enjoy an even greater charging capability from the generator without having to use the van to recharge it.

As it stands, if the Jackery generator dies while I’m posted up at camp, I put it away and switch to the integrated van outlets to charge my devices.

Pros

• 518Wh Capacity, 500W Inverter (1000W Surge)
• Simple to learn to use
• Easy-carry handle
• 3 ways to charge it: 120-volt, 12-volt, or solar
• 3 USB-A ports
• 12-volt DC outlet
• 120-volt AC outlet
• Two 10A DC outlets
• Capable of charging multiple devices at once
• Recharges while driving if plugged into 12-volt outlet
• Battery does not drain when generator is dormant
• Quiet for a generator (37.9 decibels)
• Has an integrated flashlight/lantern
• Maintains 80% charge capacity after completing 500+ full charge cycles
• Built-in protection against circuit shortages, surges, overcharge, and over-voltages

Cons

• Only one 120-volt AC outlet
• Relatively small, but still a bit bulky for van living
• No USB-C port
• Takes almost 10 hours to fully charge via solar (in complete, full sun)
• Warranty is on the shorter side

FAQ

Is it OK to leave Jackery plugged in all the time?

Information around this is conflicting. Traditional advice is to unplug your devices when they are fully charged to prevent overcharging and damage to the battery. On the brand’s website, Jackery confirms that their products are equipped with overcharge protection, but still encourages customers to unplug the generators once they reach a full charge. However, in the Explorer 1000 Power Station owner’s manual, there is an explicit answer that says unplugging the generator is not necessary. To stay on the safe side, it’s best to unplug the power station once it reaches a full charge. As mentioned earlier, I have had no issues with my Jackery 500 losing any of its charge when it sits, even for weeks, unused.

Do Jackery solar panels work on cloudy days?

Yes, Jackery solar panels (and other solar panels) work on cloudy days and in the winter. However, the output is far less than it is on a full-sun day in the summer. Expect your Jackery generator to charge more slowly on cloudy days or on days when the UV index is low.

Can you leave Jackery solar panels in the rain?

It depends on the exact solar panel model you have. The Jackery SolarSaga 60W and SolarSaga 100W are not waterproof and should not be left outside in the rain. The Jackery SolarSaga 200W, 300W and 80W are rated IP67/IP68, meaning they are technically dust and weather-resistant, but Jackery still doesn’t recommend leaving them out in the rain. Plus, the power stations are not waterproof, so there’s no point in leaving your solar panels out, anyway.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

With nearly 9,000 reviews on Amazon, the Jackery Explorer 500 has a 4.7-star average—not bad.

Five-star reviewer, R. Ridley, writes, “Great product. Love this and am very glad I got it…it is everything as advertised. I bought this as a backup power source for if/when we lose power. I have a CPAP and wanted to make sure the 500 could handle it, so I have tested it multiple times over this week. With only CPAP on, tube heat off, and humidity tank off, I got great power several nights.”

Verified Amazon purchaser, Troyellen, has this to say, “Had our first storm this year and while at work, my car locks froze up tight. Luckily I got a ride home. Went back the next day with my Jackery 500 and a hair dryer and had my locks thawed and opened in just a few minutes. Hate to think how much it would have cost to call a locksmith out to open my car. Amazed at how handy this product is.”

There aren’t a ton of expert reviews on the Jackery Explorer 500 from gear testers; from what I’ve read, gear experts seem to feel that it’s a solid unit, but some improvements could be made. Namely, people want to see faster charging, particularly with the solar setup. I’m in full agreement here: seven to 10 hours for a full charge verges on outrageous in today’s tech-heavy world. Another common request is an additional 120-volt AC outlet since there is only one on the current model. I would love to see both of these improvements on a future iteration of the Jackery 500.

Product Comparison

If you’re in the market for a portable generator, you’ve likely also come across other popular brands, such as Bluetti, Anker, Goal Zero, EcoFlow and BougeRV. Let’s take a look at the Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station vs Goal Zero YETI 500 Portable Power Station, another similar and popular battery generator.

The Goal Zero YETI 500 Portable Power Station is the more powerful of the two, and for the same price, it’s hard to recommend the Jackery over it. To be clear, I love my Jackery 500 and I am very happy with it; I have no intention of replacing it any time soon. However, as a gear reviewer, my job is to steer you toward the best purchase possible, and in this instance, the Goal Zero generator is the better buy.

For the same price, you get:

• More than quadruple the charge cycles
• Substantially faster recharging of the power station
• More port options
• A greater working temperature range
• A longer warranty
• An IPX4 rating for water resistance

The tradeoffs are minor: The Goal Zero YETI weighs 3 pounds more than the Jackery Explorer 500 and has a watt-hour capacity of 499, 19Wh less than the Explorer’s 518Wh. Should you find the Jackery Explorer 500 on sale on Amazon, I would say go ahead and get it—you definitely won’t regret that purchase. Also, I haven’t personally tried the Goal Zero YETI 500, so I can’t speak to its performance in real life.

Final Verdict

As a consumer, I’m more than happy with the Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station. I’ve had it for about two years, and it hasn’t let me down yet. My favorite features include the variety of charging ports, the built-in light, the fact that I can charge it while I drive my van and that it doesn’t lose any charge when it sits dormant for extended periods.

Although there are more powerful portable generators available at the same price point, I do not think the Jackery 500 is a bad purchase, and I do think most people will be happy with it.

Where to Buy the Jackery Portable Generator

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Jackery Explorer 500

The Explorer 500 portable power station is built with the lithium-ion battery pack, in a safely designed frame structure to maximize power for outdoor adventures and home use.

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$499 at Amazon

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You can buy the Jackery Explorer 500 directly from the Jackery website and on Walmart for a list price of $499. Plus, it’s available on Amazon, where it is frequently on sale at a lower price.

The post The Jackery Portable Power Station is One of the Best Power Banks Available appeared first on Family Handyman.

Between the wide footbed, 25 millimeters of responsive cushioning, mid-height ankle collar and supreme breathability, the Lone Peaks quickly became my go-to for almost every type of hike. In my Altra Lone Peak hiker review, I’ll explain why, as well as help you decide if these are the right boots for you.

What Is the Altra Lone Peak Hiker?

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker is a hiking boot spin-off of the extremely popular Lone Peak trail running shoes. Altra is on iteration two of the Lone Peak hikers while the trail runner version is now in its eighth iteration. Lone Peak boots are mid-height, zero-drop, moderately cushioned hiking shoes intended to tackle most types of terrain with ease. These boots are known for their comfort and flexibility, as is the case with most of Altra’s lineup.

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If you're already accustomed to zero-drop shoes or willing to put in the time to become accustomed to them, get the Altra Lone Peak Hiker.

149.9513% OFF$130.89 at Amazon

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Altra Lone Peak Hiker Features

Here’s a look at some of the most prominent and important features of the Altra Lone Peak Hiker boots.

Wide Toe Box

The most notable feature of the Lone Peaks is the wide toe box. Altra’s patented FootShape footbed is designed to better mimic the natural anatomy of human feet, hence the wide toe box and plenty of wiggle room.

Many people remark that the Altra Lone Peaks run large; they actually run true-to-size, but the wide footbed feels very roomy compared to traditional boot footbeds. In the Lone Peaks, your toes have room to splay and grip, which feels a bit funny at first but quickly becomes a welcomed attribute of the boots.

Zero-Drop Sole

This part is really important. Zero-drop shoes can bring a lot of benefits to the table, but they aren’t for everyone—and they’re certainly not the type of shoe to take on a 10-miler without previously wearing them.

The 0-millimeter heel-to-toe drop on Altra Lone Peak hikers will require an adjustment period if you have never worn zero-drop shoes before. I recommend wearing them on short walks on pavement before graduating to trails, and gradually increasing the length of your hikes while wearing these.

For what it’s worth, I didn’t wear zero-drop shoes before Altra (and, still, none of my other shoes are zero-drop), and it didn’t take long to feel perfectly comfortable in these shoes. On my first couple of short hikes with them, I felt some discomfort in my heel, but haven’t experienced any pain since then—and I’ve taken them on day hikes as long as 15 miles.

Flexible Sole

When I was on a hiking trip in Big Bend National Park, my partner stopped, looked at my feet and said, “I can see your boot moving with your foot. Man, I wish I’d gotten some of those.” And it’s true: The sole of the Altra Lone Peak Hikers is ultra flexible and it moves with you.

That’s a big part of what makes these boots so great for rocky hikes that require careful and sometimes awkward foot placement. As cheesy as it may sound, these boots make me feel closer to the ground and more connected with the trail, thanks to their flexibility.

Ankle Support

The Lone Peak hiking boots feature a mid-top height. They rise just above the ankle and the lace closure sits at the front of the ankle joint, offering ankle support on most trails and terrain. I say most because I have encountered terrain on which it didn’t feel like my ankles were supported at all—the ruts, rocks and angles just proved to be too much for the Lone Peaks. I still felt comfortable, but definitely had to be very careful about my foot placement, and I would have appreciated a more rigid ankle collar in those situations.

Extended Crash Pad

If you purchase the Lone Peak Hikers, you’ll notice that the crash pad—an extension of the rubber outsole—extends quite far past the heel cup. This helps tremendously with balance on trails with rough terrain. It’s one of my favorite features of the shoes.

Reinforced Toe Box

The Lone Peaks feature a reinforced toe box, which is clearly visible just by looking at the shoes. Without this reinforcement, you’d quickly punch a hole through the top of the toe box, particularly if you tend to take steep descents. That said, I do think the reinforcement could be stronger. I’m nearing 200 miles on my Lone Peaks and already seeing some significant signs of wear on the toe box; I expect these boots to last me 400 to 500 miles of hiking, so I’m not thrilled about that. They’re still going strong for now, though.

Deep Outsole Lugs

Hikers who love trails with slippery terrain, such as loose soil, sand or shale, will appreciate the deep lugs on the outsole of Lone Peak hiking boots. They dig deep into loose terrain, such as rocky soil and sand, and I found them to be very sticky on smooth exposed rock.

Breathable Mesh Upper (or Waterproof Upper)

The Lone Peaks are some of the most breathable hiking boots I’ve owned. They’re so breathable, in fact, that they actually drain water really well, too. While living in Florida, I took these boots through some serious slog and the water drained out quickly, which is ideal on swampy trails.

I wouldn’t, however, recommend the Lone Peaks for winter hikes in snow. In these lightweight boots, your feet will most definitely get wet and cold. But in warm weather or in scenarios where water drainage is necessary, they excel.

There’s also a waterproof version of the Altra Lone Peak called ALL-WTHR. However, many customer reviews suggest that the waterproofing isn’t ideal or even good. In this case, you’d be better off buying the regular Lone Peaks since they drain and dry so quickly, or purchasing a different pair of waterproof boots. We like the Columbia Newton Ridge waterproof boots.

How We Tested It

I’ve worn the Altra Lone Peak hiking boots for about 200 trail miles, and they continue to perform wonderfully. I expect to get 400 to 500 miles out of these boots, based on the wear-and-tear I see on them at the 200-mile mark.

I have taken the Lone Peaks on all kinds of trails, from deep sand trails through South Florida scrub forests to hard–packed dirt trails in the desert to slick scrambles on exposed rock faces in the mountains. In every scenario, I have found myself thankful for the Lone Peaks in some way. In Florida, I was thankful that the breathable shoes drained water so well and didn’t leave my feet goopy with swamp stuff. With the heat of a Utah summer, I was thankful that the breathable mesh upper kept my feet cool and reasonably dry. And in the rocky, slippery canyons of southwest Texas, I was thankful for the deep, grippy grooves on the outsoles.

But mostly, I’m thankful for the comfort. It’s wonderful to have found a pair of boots that lets me hike double-digit miles regularly without any pain, aching or discomfort. From short two-mile jaunts to grueling 15-mile day hikes, my Lone Peaks have served me well.

Pros

• Wide, comfortable toe box allows for toe splay
• Super grippy outsole
• Extended crash pad helps with balance
• Flexible foot bed moves with your feet
• Mesh upper is breathable and drains water well
• Laces stay put and stay tied
• Lightweight, yet durable

Cons

• Not waterproof
• All-weather version has bad reviews regarding waterproofness
• Zero-drop soles are not for everyone and may cause pain in people who are not accustomed to them

FAQ

Are Altra Lone Peak hikers waterproof?

There’s a waterproof version of Lone Peak Hikers called the ALL-WTHR (all-weather) model. I have not personally tried the all-weather version of these shoes, but customer reviews indicate that they may not be the best waterproof boot out there.

Should I size up or down Altra Lone Peak?

I found that the Altra Lone Peak runs true to size, but they may feel big at first as you get accustomed to the wide footbed and toe box.

How long do Altra trail shoes last?

How long any pair of hiking boots lasts depends on how often you use them and what kind of trails you hike. It’s not really about years, but about miles. In general, you can expect to get about 300 to 500 miles out of a pair of boots with a typical ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam sole (the same as running shoes).

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker boots feature a midsole made of a proprietary blend of cushioning agents, according to Altra, although online, multiple sources say the midsole is constructed from thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU). TPU is a bit stronger than EVA, so Altra Lone Peaks should perform well to the higher end of that 300 to 500 range, or higher. I’m coming up on 200 miles on my Lone Peaks and they still perform perfectly.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

The Altra Lone Peak Hiker is a favorite among trail runners and hikers alike. Still, shoes are extremely individual and everyone’s experience will differ due to differences in foot anatomy, terrain types traveled and more.

Customer reviews are generally positive, with buyers reporting that they have purchased the Lone Peaks time and time again when the need for new boots presented itself. Some customer reviews report issues with quality—as in the boots breaking down earlier than expected—but I haven’t had any problems yet (I’m keeping my eye on the toe box wear and tear, however).

In-depth reviews by other hiking experts vary greatly. Some detailed reviews spew praise, calling the Lone Peaks the best hiking boots ever designed. Others are less positive, calling the boots out for lackluster performance on technical terrain. In general, though, it seems that all experts can agree on one thing: These boots are dang comfortable.

Product Comparison

Altra Lone Peak Hikers are far from the only respectable boots available to hikers. In fact, I have a whole list of favorites that you can read about in my guide to the best hiking boots. As for zero-drop hiking boots specifically, I’d recommend no other pair than these. Based on product specs and customer reviews, the Altra Lone Peaks seem to offer the best blend of minimalism, durability and comfort.

If you’re looking for something waterproof, I have to steer you away from the Lone Peaks, though. Although I haven’t tried the waterproof version, numerous customer reviews indicate that they aren’t, in fact, very waterproof. The Columbia Newton Ridge is a quality waterproof pick for a good price (but doesn’t have zero-drop soles).

For breathability and drainability, the Lone Peaks are unmatched in my experience. They also feature some of the most effective outsoles I’ve tried. Those in search of supreme ankle support may want to look elsewhere. The mid-height ankle collar on the Lone Peaks works well in most scenarios, but if you’re going to encounter very rocky terrain or have specific needs for your ankles, something more rigid might be a better choice for you.

Another option worth looking into is the Hoka Speedgoat mid-top version. The Speedgoats have a deity-like status among trail runners, and the mid-top Speedgoat would make for a great lightweight hiking boot, albeit not a zero-drop option.

Merrell is another brand that should be on your radar. Our shopping team at Family Handyman praises the Moab boots (and Moab collaborations with brands like Unlikely Hikers and Jeep).

Final Verdict

I fully, heartily recommend the Altra Lone Peak hiking boots to anyone who’s already accustomed to zero-drop shoes or willing to put in the time to become accustomed to them. Are they the perfect boots in every scenario? No, but they’re the best all-rounders I’ve tried. Despite my minor complaints about the lackluster toe box reinforcement and ankle support, I will be purchasing a new pair of Altra Lone Peak Hikers when it’s time for new boots.

Where to Buy the Altra Lone Peak Hiker

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Altra Lone Peak Hiker

The sole of the Altra Lone Peak Hiker is ultra flexible and it moves with you.

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The Altra Lone Peak Hiker is available on the brand’s website, as well as Amazon, REI and Zappos, for $150. The all-weather version is slightly higher at $180.

149.9513% OFF$130.89 at Amazon

The post I’m an Avid Hiker, and I Wear the Altra Lone Peak Hikers for Almost Every Trail appeared first on Family Handyman.

Best Overall Hand Warmer

Ocoopa Quick-Charge Hand Warmers

The Ocoopa quick-charge hand warmer is a fan-favorite on TikTok with thousands of positive reviews—and it was hands down the best-performing hand warmer out of the ones we tested. I loved that it was slimmer than other rechargeable hand warmers, so it could easily fit in my pocket or camping bag and not take up much space. Plus, the heat is very warm without being so hot that it starts to feel uncomfortable. It can be used for keeping warm while the car de-ices to nighttime walks.

This rechargeable hand warmer has three heat levels, with the highest reaching up to 131 degrees Fahrenheit. The USB-C port can also be used to charge your phone or laptop. It was the fastest-charging electronic hand warmer I tested and has an eight-hour battery life, depending on usage.

Pros

• Reaches up to 131 degrees Fahrenheit
• Three heat levels
• Quick-charging
• Can be used to charge phones
• Easily fits in pockets and bags

Cons

• Not the best battery life

$26.99 at Amazon

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Best Budget Hand Warmer

HotHands Hand Warmers

Even with all the advances in hand warmer technology, there’s still a place and time for the original HotHands hand warmers. I lived with a pair of them in my hands at all times when my old house had insulation issues that made it feel like an Arctic ice box, and I’m convinced they saved me. Thank you, HotHands.

Are they hotter than rechargeable hand warmers? No, but they can last for 10 hours and are still warm. The toe warmers were new to me, but even after using them once to walk the dog at night, I’m a big fan.

Pros

• Affordable
• Last 10 hours
• No electricity needed
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)-approved

Cons

• Single-use

13.9526% OFF$10.34 at Amazon

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Best Reusable Hand Warmer

HotSnapZ Reusable Hand Warmers

The HotSnapZ reusable hand warmers were made for people who want to reuse chemical hand warmers instead of throwing them away after each use, or for anyone who needs instant heat. You simply snap the internal activation disc and an instant chemical reaction produces heat that can reach 130 degrees Fahrenheit, which is more than enough to keep your digits warm, though they only last for up to 40 minutes.

I’ve reached for these every morning to alleviate the cold hands I have due to iron-deficiency anemia. The quick reaction means I only have to wait a second before I get to keep the cold away, and I only need to boil them for a few minutes to make them reusable. My one callout is the disc gets more sensitive each time you use it, so keep that in mind if you plan on throwing these best hand warmers in a bag.

Pros

• Can be used more than once
• Instant heat
• Affordable
• No electricity

Cons

• Only lasts 40 minutes

$19.99 at Amazon

$19.99 at Amazon

Best Rechargeable Hand Warmer

Survival Frog QuickHeat Pro Rechargeable Hand Warmer

A 14-hour battery life and a 9,000 milliampere-hour (mAh) lithium battery are the two things that make the Survival Frog hand warmer the best rechargeable hand warmer on the market. I have large hands, so I like the bulkier feel of this hand warmer compared to others, but that might not be best for you.

The powerful battery allows the two lower heat levels to feel just as hot as the maximum setting on other options, which could extend the battery life. The only reason I didn’t name this my top hand warmer is the eight-hour charging time, but I love that it can be used to charge your other devices and comes with a lanyard. It’s worth putting on your cold-weather wish list.

Pros

• 14-hour battery life
• Three heat levels
• Includes a lanyard
• Can be used as a power bank

Cons

• Bulkier design not for everyone

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Best Catalytic Hand Warmer

Zippo 12-Hour Refillable Hand Warmer

The Zippo hand warmer is a smart pick for hunters, winter campers or anyone else who spends a lot of time outside in frigid temperatures. This giant Zippo is filled with lighter fluid and lit—a catalytic process then creates heat for up to 12 hours, depending on how much fuel you’ve used.

Most people place the Zippo with its carrying case in their jacket to feel warm while outside. It hasn’t gotten that cold in North Carolina as of this writing, but as a hand warmer it works well. Be warned: There’s no way to stop the heat, so it’s best to leave it in its pouch on a fireproof surface until all the fuel is burned.

Pros

• Doesn’t use electricity
• Reusable
• Lightweight
• Lighter fluid included

Cons

• Can’t turn off heat

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Best Hand Warmer for Walks

Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer

The Orastone rechargeable hand warmer lives by my girlfriend’s dog’s leash and collar, because it is the perfect hand warmer for walks. It’s small, has an included lanyard and gives off 107 degrees Fahrenheit of heat—all of which make me more willing to extend Brodie’s walks, which in turn makes him happy. Everyone wins.

Another reason I recommend this for walks is the light-emitting diode (LED) light, which can be great for cold-weather emergencies or finding your dog’s “business” during night walks. The battery life is only four hours, but on the bright side, it only takes three hours to fully charge.

Pros

• Small and only weighs 2.4 ounces
• Reaches up to 107 degrees Fahrenheit
• Only take three hours to fully charge
• LED light
• Included lanyard

Cons

• Four-hour battery life

23.9925% OFF$17.99 at Amazon

Best Hand Warmer for Hunting

Savior Heat Electric Heating Hand Warmer Pouch

Your hands are instantly warm the second you place them in the Savior Heat electric hand warmer pouch, and toasty as soon as the heating element kicks in. Yup, it’s essentially a heated fanny pack with three levels of heat that reaches up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Like a fanny pack, it also comes with internal storage.

While I haven’t had a chance to properly test this electric hand warmer, I can attest that the heat is impressive and would certainly hold up during a winter hike or a tailgating party. Yes, it’s a little expensive, but it’s made with high-quality materials that are water- and tear-resistant.

Pros

• Waistband design
• Three heat levels
• Internal storage
• Lasts up to 12.5 hours on low

Cons

• Pricey

$95.99 at Amazon

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What to Look for When Buying a Hand Warmer

The first thing to look for when buying a hand warmer is the type that’s best for your needs. If you’re someone who only gets a handful of cold days, you’re better off going with a disposable hand warmer because a large pack of them is affordable. “Get a large multi-pack for convenience and cost savings over time,” says Jason Ingamells, an outdoors specialist. Disposable hand warmers can also be placed in gloves and hiking boots to provide heat for up to 10 hours to our limbs, which can help promote blood flow and prevent frostbite.

Go for an electric rechargeable hand warmer if you need a reliable source of heat—and a lot of it. Most electric hand warmers go above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and the best can reach up to 135 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s not enough to burn skin, though you should always limit direct skin contact with high temperatures.

“Our hands are useful for so much when traveling, and not having access to those skills can be a massive problem if you are doing any dangerous tasks,” says Will Hatton, founder and CEO of The Broke Backpacker.

Look for an electric hand warmer with adjustable heat settings, a battery indicator and a battery life of at least six hours.

Types of Hand Warmers

There are three main types of hand warmers: disposable, electric and catalytic. There’s no “best” type, it just depends on what your climate and activities look like.

• Disposable hand warmers: This type, such as HotHands, are good for those who need long-term heat. The air-activated packets take about 15 to 20 minutes to fully activate, but they’ll last for up to 10 hours. They’re also small enough to fit in gloves or boots to help further promote blood flow to your fingers and toes.
• Electric/rechargeable hand warmers: These can reach temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, with the industry standard being around 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Electric hand warmers are powered by a lithium-ion battery, which may malfunction if exposed to freezing temperatures. “Rechargeable electric hand warmers are perfect for those expecting prolonged periods out in the cold, like camping trips or hunting expeditions,” says Mike Millerson, founder of SurviveNature. “It’s essential to select a device with dependable battery life, preferably one offering dual-sided heat and adjustable temperature controls for versatility.” This type is also good for those with iron-deficiency anemia, peripheral cyanosis or anyone else with a condition that causes cold hands.
• Catalytic hand warmers: These work through a chemical reaction that burns chemicals at a lower temperature to produce heat without a flame. The good news is you can get up to 12 hours of heat with a catalytic hand warmer, but the bad news is there’s no way to stop it. The heat will only stop once all the fuel is burned.

Why You Should Trust Us

I have cold hands due to a condition called iron-deficiency anemia, so I’m always looking for ways to keep my hands warm. That’s why I’m able to provide hands-on (pun intended) experience with the best rechargeable hand warmers, disposable hand warmers and more. These aren’t first-glance impressions, they’re results based on a month of continuous use and experimentation.

I also heard from more than 10 hunters, hikers and other outdoors people who have used these hand warmers while on the trail. They gave us their opinions on the different types and provided some insights on what to look for when shopping for a hand warmer.

How We Got a Hand(le) on the Best Hand Warmers

After researching customer reviews and specs of more than 10 hand warmers, we put our prints all over seven of them. That’s right, we tested every hand warmer we recommended above to ensure they actually deliver. When it came to rechargeable hand warmers, we looked for models that provided at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit of heat, dual-side heating and adjustable heat levels. We wanted electric hand warmers with a four-hour charging time and eight-hour battery life, and ideally have a second feature, such as an external charging port or an LED light.

We also made sure the hand warmers were safe and did not present any risk to the user, such as getting too hot or an unreliable battery. Lastly, we spoke with outdoors experts to hear what people with years of experience with hand warmers had to say so we could develop an informed opinion on our top picks.

FAQ

What are the types of hand warmers?

There are three main types of hand warmers: disposable air-activated hand warmers that produce heat for 10 hours, electric/rechargeable hand warmers that can provide heat for four to eight hours and catalytic hand warmers that produce heat by burning lighter fluid without a flame.

Why do people use hand warmers?

People use hand warmers for many reasons, such as while hunting in the winter or walking the dog while it’s cold outside, but the underlying theme is keeping blood flowing to your fingers. The heat can help prevent extreme cold from restricting blood flow to your fingers, which can result in loss of feeling or frostbite. People may also use it if they have a condition that causes cold hands, such as iron-deficiency anemia.

Sources:

• Gracjan Poniatowski, an outdoors enthusiast
• Jason Ingamells, an outdoors specialist
• Will Hatton, founder and CEO of The Broke Backpacker
• Mike Millerson, founder of SurviveNature

The post We Tested the 7 Best Hand Warmers for Cold Weather appeared first on Family Handyman.

Unsurprisingly, it’s expensive, as is typical of the brand. I’ve been using the GoBox 15, the smallest of the lineup, for more than eight weeks as I’ve traveled around the southeast and southwest in my camper van. But is it just a box with a brand name? Or is it truly worth the hefty price tag? In my Yeti Loadout GoBox review, I answer those questions and more while providing all of the need-to-know details about this storage item and who could actually benefit from it.

What is the Yeti Loadout GoBox?

The Yeti Loadout GoBox is a storage box designed for a variety of uses. Ultra durable and waterproof, these boxes are available in three sizes: 15 liters ($125), 30 liters ($250) and 60 liters ($300). The different sizes are suited to different uses. For instance, the 15-liter box would work well as a tackle box or for storing electronics. The 30-liter box is handy for storing a camp kitchen setup or using as a camp pantry (with bear-proof locks!). The 60-liter option can serve as an entire gear closet.

What remains the same across the three sizes is that all are intended to withstand the toughest of conditions, from complete water submersion to wind storms whipping up desert dust to jostling down a rough road.

Yeti Loadout GoBox Features

“Virtually Indestructible” Construction

The Yeti Loadout GoBox has all of the typical features you’d expect to find on a Yeti product: thick rotomolded Defender material construction, the NeverFail hinge system and an impressive dual IP65 and IP67 waterproof/dustproof rating. Those ratings mean the box is completely submersible in water and entirely resistant to dust entry.

On the online product listing and product tag, Yeti says it can’t legally call the box unbreakable, so it’s called “virtually indestructible” which, after using the box for about two months, seems true.

The GoBox, like other Yeti products, just feels durable when you’re using it. The thickness of Yeti’s Defender material gives it a hefty feel, and the lockdown latches produce a satisfying seal. In use, it’s clear that this product was really designed to withstand almost anything.

LipGrip Handles

Yeti’s patented LipGrip handles are comfortable to hold for long distances. There’s just one on the 15-liter box, situated in a flip-up fashion. On the 30-liter box, there’s a sling with a LipGrip handle in the middle, and on the 60-liter box, you’ll find two LipGrip handles, one on each side.

PackAttic

The two larger GoBoxes feature the PackAttic, a mesh storage compartment in the interior of the lid. It’s a useful spot to put flat and small, loose items, such as maps or a compass. One drawback to the 15-liter box is that it doesn’t have this feature. I have the GoBox 15, and it would be really nice to have the additional organization capability.

Organization Tray and Dividers

Each GoBox comes with one removable organizational caddy. The 15-liter box fits one caddy, the 30-liter fits two and the 60-liter fits three. The two larger sizes also accommodate dividers (one in the 30-liter box and two in the 60-liter box), and come with one divider each. You can purchase more dividers and trays separately.

Tiedown Slots

If you’re taking your GoBox out on a boat, raft, kayak or other water vessel—or in the bed of your truck on an off-roading mission—you’ll want to take advantage of the patented AnchorPoint tie-down slots. These allow you to secure the box to your vessel or vehicle.

Lockable

On the sides of each latch, you’ll find prefabricated holes for padlocks or thin cable locks. Yeti sells bear-proof locks that can make the boxes more resistant to wildlife, but the GoBoxes are not certified bear-proof.

Stackable

Stackability is a major feature of the Yeti Loadout GoBox lineup. Regardless of which size you get, they’ll stack. For instance, three 15-liter GoBoxes will nestle right on top of a 60-liter GoBox. Having stackable boxes, such as The North Face Base Camp storage box that I also have and love, is ideal when you’re hauling a lot of gear in tight quarters.

How We Tested It

I’ve been using the Yeti Loadout GoBox as a camping storage box in my campervan. I travel full time, so having durable storage bins and cases is necessary to protect my gear on the road, particularly on unpaved roads when things can get a bit rocky (literally).

In the eight weeks or so that I’ve had the Yeti GoBox, its purpose has changed over time. To be frank, I wasn’t quite sure what to do with it at first, especially since the 15-liter size is small. It held miscellaneous items until I decided that it was best suited to be an electronics vault. Now, it holds (and organizes) all of my charging cables and blocks, extension cords, portable chargers and battery packs, and rechargeable batteries. I store this box in my van’s gear closet, which doubles as a wet bath, so I have peace of mind knowing that if something were to happen—like the shower faucet getting bumped and turned on—all of my electronics are thoroughly protected.

I’ll sometimes use my GoBox to store my DSLR camera and lenses when I’m driving down a particularly rough road. Normally, I store those items in overhead cabin storage, but they could fall if I hit a bad bump. It’s nice to know the strong-walled Yeti GoBox will protect them from all of the ruts, rivets and rocks.

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Completely watertight and dustproof
• Compatible with Yeti’s bear-proof locks
• Comfy handle(s)
• Included organization tray
• Stackable
• Five-year warranty

Cons

• Expensive
• May be overkill for some pursuits

FAQ

Can I use the Yeti GoBox as a cooler?

No, Yeti Loadout GoBoxes are not coolers. If you put food and ice in this gear box, the ice will melt and your food will spoil. Check out Yeti’s lineup of coolers to suit this need.

Can you stand on a Yeti Loadout GoBox?

Yes, you can stand on a GoBox, especially the larger sizes, but Yeti doesn’t recommend using them as a casting platform or for general standing use. However, Yeti discloses that sitting on the boxes is fine.

What is a Yeti Loadout GoBox used for?

The Yeti Loudout GoBox is a gear storage box intended to keep contents dry, free from dust and safe from wildlife (and humans) when locked with compatible locks. You can store anything you want in a GoBox, but common uses include storing electronics, any essentials on kayak/canoe/raft trips, and camp kitchen setups.

What Other Reviewers and Experts Had to Say

There is no shortage of reviews on the Yeti Loadout GoBox online, from both gear testers and consumers alike. Among product and shopping experts, the general consensus seems to be that the Yeti Loadout GoBox is truly worth the price tag if you intend to take valuables on trips where there’s a high likelihood they could get wet or dropped from great heights. And it’s true—if you lock your precious camera up in the GoBox and it falls out of your kayak into the river, the box will have paid for itself many times over.

“I just picked up the GoBox 30 to keep my Yeti 1000X Power Station dry and secure on road trips,” shares one five-star reviewer. “The GoBox is perfect with the added lid dimensions (depth), internal tie-down points and for keeping all of the various connectors handy in the zipper compartments. Great design and quality, Yeti.”

“Price is definitely high, but the organization and build quality is excellent, made for the perfect dry storage on my boat and seat,” writes another reviewer.

Product Comparison: Yeti Loadout vs. Pelican Air

Pelican is another brand known for its hardy storage cases. The Pelican Air case in particular is very popular among outdoors people and tactical recreationalists. How does it stack up to the Yeti Loadout GoBox?

One of the first things you’ll notice upon researching Pelican Air cases is that there are many more options than there are for Yeti GoBoxes. Air cases are available in different lengths and styles with different features to suit different needs. For instance, the 1745 Air Long Case is a popular choice for overlanders who want a durable storage case on their vehicle’s roof rack. This low-profile option doesn’t add much height to a vehicle, but does offer a roomy, safe space for long gear items, such as hunting rifles or tripods. Pelican Air cases also come in carry-on friendly sizes for air travel, as well as more standard tool box-like shapes and sizes.

Another factor to consider is Pelican’s customizable Pick ‘n’ Pluck foam. This system allows you to create shapes in protective foam specific to the items you intend to carry in the case, effectively creating snug pockets for your valuables to lie in.

A common complaint about Air cases, however, is the lack of comfortable handles. Many customer reviews indicate that the cases can be tough to transport due to handle placement and the hard plastic of the design. The handles on the Yeti GoBoxes, on the other hand, feature contoured grip and are placed so that one person can transport even the largest 60-liter box.

Both are quality product lines, as evidenced by expert and customer reviews, so choosing one will come down to your specific gear needs.

Final Verdict

Is the Yeti Loadout GoBox an absolute must-have? Unless you’re headed out on serious rafting trips with whitewater or other intense water-based activities, I’m inclined to say no. There are other options worth exploring that won’t cost you a minimum of $125 for 15 liters of storage space. The Dometic GO Soft-Sided camping storage box is an example, and a personal favorite. At a list price of $100, the 20-liter box offers adequate waterproofing and is made of a durable 840-denier, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-coated polyester. Like the Yeti Loadout GoBox, the Dometic GO box offers watertight small-item storage, but is more flexible to use and weighs significantly less, yet has an additional 5 liters of storage space.

Still, depending on your needs, the Yeti Loadout GoBox would be worth the investment. And even if you don’t need it per se, it’s certainly a fun item to have—you know, just in case you decide to finally take that whitewater trip. Plus, the included cargo tray does make organization easy.

Where to Buy the Yeti Loadout GoBox

The Yeti Loadout GoBox is available at several online retailers. You can find it at the official online Yeti store, as well as Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Bass Pro Shops. You can also order online and pick up in a store local to you. The GoBox series starts at $125 for the 15-liter gear case, $250 for the 30-liter case and tops out at $300 for the 60-liter case.

The post I Live in a Van Full Time, and I Use the Yeti Loadout GoBox Every Day appeared first on Family Handyman.

ROBERT MAXWELL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

The Thetford Porta Potti 565E unit is packed with more features than I’ve seen in just about any other portable toilet, especially those in this price range. Running on electricity supplied by included AA batteries, the 565E has a push-button flusher connected to an electric pump. I found adding water for flushing through the fill port at the back to be a breeze, and the bottom waste pipe made dumping as safe and easy as possible.

The upper and lower tanks (for water and waste, respectively) total nearly 10 gallons of capacity. Even though this unit is on the tall side for a portable toilet (nearly 18 inches), I found it surprisingly light and easy to carry. A big part of this ease was thanks to a very well-placed handle at the back. It’s even got a toilet paper compartment built into the side and a capacity gauge at the back. Note: The manufacturer recommends using liquid waste treatment in the top tank and sewage treatment in the lower tank to keep the toilet as clean as possible.

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Best Budget Portable Toilet

Reliance Luggable Loo Portable Toilet with Metal Handle

$43.99 at Amazon

At a budget-friendly price, you’d be hard-pressed to find a lower-cost portable toilet than this Reliance one. I’ve used this unit before and can tell you from experience that sometimes, when nature calls, you don’t need or even want all the bells and whistles some fancier units include. The simple 5-gallon bucket topped with a snap-on toilet seat is more than adequate for those truly roughing it. It is lightweight and has plenty of capacity, and the seat is surprisingly comfortable. Most importantly, the seat snaps onto the bucket very securely. Forgoing those bells and whistles, unfortunately, comes with a cost–that cost being an unpleasant dumping experience. It is just a bucket, after all. But with thousands of 5-star reviews on Amazon, it can’t be that bad.

ROBERT MAXWELL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Best Composting Portable Toilet

Trelino Evo M Portable Composting Toilet

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This German-designed portable toilet has the most streamlined, user-friendly design I’ve ever seen in a composting portable toilet. Next time I go on a wilderness adventure, this is the toilet I’ll bring. It’s small (15.4 inches by 13 inches by 14 inches) and lightweight (9.5 pounds), making it great for wilderness camping or van life.

Number one and number two are automatically separated, with solids directed into a plastic container lined with a compostable bag and liquids funneled into a second sealed container with a flexible rubber membrane at the top to prevent spills. I love that this unit doesn’t have many confusing moving parts and doesn’t require water or electricity.

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Best Tankless Portable Toilet

Cleanwaste GO Anywhere Portable Toilet Seat

$89.99 at Amazon

The Cleanwaste GO Anywhere offers the best solution I know of for folks who want the comfort of a portable toilet without the trouble of emptying a built-in waste tank. Its sturdy, three-legged design supports a seat, which can either be left open to a hole dug in the ground below or hold a waste disposal bag if digging isn’t an option. The bags that come with the unit are more than strong enough to do their duty; each one even comes with some toilet paper and a wet wipe inside.

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Best Compact Portable Toilet

Boxio Portable Toilet

$179 at Amazon

At just 16 inches by 11 inches by 11 inches, this portable composting toilet is about as compact as they come. Like other models of this style, it divides waste into liquids and solids via two separate tanks below the seat. Composting material is added to the rear tank to help break things down and prevent odors. The main advantage of this unit is its small size. For avid camping enthusiasts, wilderness explorers, and van-dwelling nomads, storage and pack space comes at a premium. That’s where the Boxio really shines. Some folks even build custom cabinets with a drawer to keep this unit out of sight when not in use.

What to Look for When Buying a Portable Toilet

• Comfort vs. simplicity: Your first decision when shopping for a portable toilet is what sort of features you want. Will you be happy with a solid seat and a plastic tank, figuring out the rest as you go? Or perhaps you’d prefer a toilet the comes as close as possible to the comfort of home, including battery-powered flushing—even if it means more steps and less portability. Decide for yourself how much you value toilet comfort versus simplicity.
• Disposal system: Some portable toilets contain waste in a bag, others in a sealed container, and others in a removable tank. Some don’t contain waste at all. Think ahead to the sort of waste disposal options you’ll have available when using your portable toilet, and shop accordingly.
• Size and portability: Will you be using your portable toilet on hikes? At wilderness campsites? While touring America in your van or RV? Depending on your answer, choose a toilet that matches your size and portability needs. Personally, I’m the wilderness explorer type, so the smaller and more compact my portable toilet, the better.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’ve been exploring the wilderness here in Northern Ontario, Canada since I could walk, and I’ve tried many portable toilets over the years. I’ve used them on long canoe trips where I didn’t see a sign of civilization for weeks at a time, on wilderness hikes that lasted all day (or multiple days) and carried them in the back of my pickup as I drove it along the flat, undisturbed limestone shoreline of the island where I live, foraging for wild foods.

I’ve also gone without a portable toilet often enough to know just how much of a help and comfort it can be. Nothing makes you appreciate a plastic box with a toilet seat more than squatting over a poison ivy patch deep in the woods in the pouring rain at night with nothing to support your backside. Trust me, I know. It’s also why I know which portable toilets are worth it.

We’ve Tested a Handful of the Best Portable Toilets on the Market

Of the five portable toilets mentioned in this article, I’ve personally tested three. I’ve also used a handful of other similar models over the years. Based on my experience using these since 2009, I can confidently say the portable toilets listed here are some of the best on the market.

FAQ

Where do I empty my portable toilet?

It depends. Many campsites include designated waste dump sites you can use to empty your portable toilet for a small fee. RV parks have similar facilities, often using separate disposal facilities for gray water (sinks and showers) and black water (human waste). If none of these are around, you can always tie up your stuff tightly in a plastic bag (they often come with portable toilets) and throw it in the trash. This, of course, only works for solids. Liquids can be poured out discreetly in the woods if there are woods around.

How do I clean my portable toilet for storage?

Our resident expert, Deane Biermeier, has suggestions for cleaning a portable toilet for storage or for cleaning maintenance. “The most important thing is to follow any manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for your toilet, especially regarding chemical use,” he says. “While there are many commercially available products around to accomplish the task, avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasives when cleaning plastic surfaces is crucial. Try using vinegar, water and mild disinfectants in the absence of manufacturer recommendations. If your toilet’s maker offers a proprietary cleaning solution, it’s often your best bet.”

The post 5 Best Portable Toilets of 2025, Tested by an Outdoorsman appeared first on Family Handyman.

• Add one to two tablespoons of soap flakes to a small bowl.
• Pour in a half-cup of hot water and stir until dissolved.

Spot treat

• Unzip the sleeping bag and examine it for dirt and grease.
• Use a soft toothbrush and the soap paste to gently scrub any grimy spots.

Wash

• Place the sleeping bag, by itself, into the washer.
• Choose the gentle or bedding cycle, Polich says. The bedding cycle is for large items like comforters and pillows.
• Pour the remaining soap flake solution into the washer drum or liquid detergent reservoir.
  • If you don’t have much left, add another tablespoon, tops. Don’t overdo it on the soap, Polich says, “since it can be hard to rinse out if it gets too sudsy.”
  • Optional: Use NikWax, a soap-based cleaner made for down sleeping bags and clothing.
• Wash on warm or cold, never hot.

Rinse and spin

• Check for remaining suds when the wash cycle ends.
• Do another rinse and spin, if necessary, to get all the soap out.

Dry

• Transfer the bag to the dryer. Really? Can sleeping bags go in the dryer?
  • Yep. “Tumble dry on a low heat so the fabric doesn’t melt,” Polich says. Toss in a few tennis balls to fluff and separate.
• If your dryer isn’t large enough to accommodate the bag, air dry on a line, rack or drying cabinet.
  • Pro tip: Polich says you’ll know your dryer is too small if the bag stays balled up when it’s drying. Check on it frequently.
• Remove promptly when the cycle ends and feel for dampness.
• Dry again if needed, rearranging the bag periodically to ensure airflow reaches all parts.

The post How To Wash a Sleeping Bag in a Washing Machine appeared first on Family Handyman.

And if it comes from Solo Stove, we cover it at Family Handyman because, frankly, we’re obsessed with the brand. We’ve tried everything from the Pi Prime Pizza Oven to the Mesa Torches and more. So when we heard about the Solo Stove Patio Heater in October of 2023, we were stoked to see what it was all about.

We originally tested the heater during the spookiest month of the year, which is arguably the most perfect time for fire pit hangouts. Now, as October is nearing again, we decided to check in to let you know how the heater has held up over the last year.

What is the Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater?

The Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater is a pellet-fueled heater that warms your outdoor space. Like the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 fire pit, it is smokeless. It has about a 10-foot heating radius, so it’s perfect for small to mid-sized patios during colder months.

The Tower Patio Heater’s hopper box holds about 25 pounds of pellets, and a full hopper box should produce about three hours of warmth. Quick note: Something I’ve learned about pellets while testing this patio heater and other Solo Stove products that are pellet-fueled is that there is a difference between the pellets you use in a smoker and pellets made for wood stoves and heaters. Namely, pellets made for pellet heaters like the Tower Patio Heater are less expensive and produce more heat.

That said, if you’ve been searching for a patio heater that doesn’t use propane, then this Solo Stove pellet heater may be just the thing you’re looking for. Pellets are generally easier to store and lighter than firewood; they’re typically less expensive than propane and don’t pose the same combustion risks.

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We Tried It

Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater

This pellet-fueled patio heater is perfect for warming your outdoor space.

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Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater Features

The Tower Patio Heater measures 80-1/2 inches tall, nearly 20 inches wide and about 23-1/2 inches deep. At 104 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight for its size. The body of the heater is primarily matte black, while the sides of the heater’s base and the very top of the deflector are chrome. Honestly, it’s one of the best-looking patio heaters I’ve seen. (This still holds true a year later.)

I also love that the front of the heater has a perforated door that allows you to see into the base of the heater as the pellets are burning. This design feature provides an added touch of ambiance, as you can see the fire as you sit around and enjoy its warmth.

In my initial review of the patio heater, I mentioned that I planned to leave it outside most of the time. For testing purposes, I left it on the back patio all year, and it still pretty good. I do think it would have been nice to have some added protection against, like Solo Stove’s Tower Shelter, but it’s sold separately, and I did not purchase it. Truthfully, I wanted to see how the patio heater would take a year of unpredictable Midwestern weather. Still, I would highly recommend getting one to protect your Tower Patio Heater and keep it looking perfect.

Solo Stove does not advise placing the Tower Heater on any combustible surface (wood, plastic, grass, etc.). You should also keep it at least three feet from any combustible materials (i.e., a wood fence). The Tower Patio Heater is designed for patios with a concrete or stone surface, not a wooden deck.

How We Tested It

The Solo Stove Patio Tower Heater arrives at your door in two large boxes. One houses the heater’s base, and the other holds the tubing that makes up the heater’s tower. The boxes are heavy, so you may need assistance lifting and moving them from your front door to your backyard (or wherever you plan to assemble the heater).

Packaging

I’ve said this before about Solo Stove packaging, but I wish the brand added a bit more protection and padding to their products, as I have received a couple of dented products now. Well, two products specifically: The patio heater and the Bonfire 2.0. Granted, I have received dozens of Solo Stove products that arrived in perfect condition, so the issue doesn’t seem to happen too frequently. However, Solo Stove products aren’t cheap—and I expect products to arrive without any defects or markings.

If your Solo Stove Patio Heater arrives defective, you should reach out to customer service, as the product has a lifetime warranty and is guaranteed to arrive free of factory defects. Because the hopper lid covered the most noticeable dent on the main body of the heater, I did not worry about reaching out to customer service, as it’s barely noticeable with the lid closed and doesn’t interfere at all with the heater’s use. However, during my second and third use of the heater, I noticed that the top of it was dented and part of the tower was chipped.

Assembly

But enough about that, let’s talk assembly. While you might be able to get the Solo Stove Patio Heater built with one person, I wouldn’t recommend it. When it comes time to assemble the tower, it’s nice (necessary, in my opinion) to have an extra set of hands to hold the tower in place while screws are being inserted and tightened. Overall, assembly with two people wasn’t difficult. Although, there were a few things that made assembly more challenging than it needed to be.

Namely, the instructions and parts weren’t as clearly written or labeled in some places as they could have been. The instructions had some addendums, which helped, and the entire assembly process didn’t take very long. In other words, you should be able to use the heater within a couple of hours of opening the boxes.

Starting a Fire

Once the Tower Patio Heater was assembled, I filled the hopper box with pellets and opened the door to allow the pellets to flow through to the burn chamber. Once the burn chamber was filled with pellets, I closed the hopper box and lit a fire starter within it. The pellets within the burn chamber caught fire almost immediately.

Once the fire has had time to build, you’ll start to notice heat coming from the top of the tower. If you fill the hopper box completely, the pellets can be fed into the burn chamber continuously for a longer burn. While the Tower Patio Heater is said to have a heating radius of 10 feet, I found that the heat was most felt sitting within five feet of the tower.

I do question whether the heat deflector at the top of the tower could be wider to ensure that less heat escapes out above the tower. However, I found it to be quite cozy under the heater, and I loved being able to watch the fire burn through the door in front of the burn chamber. I also appreciated the smokeless, odorless heat that the Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater emits. It was pleasant to have the heat and visual charm of the fire without expensive propane and added fumes.

After testing it in chilly autumn and cold winter weather last year,  I can say that this patio heater doesn’t put out quite enough heat to keep you warm when temperatures drop below 40 degrees. However, it’s perfect for crisp autumn nights when you need more light than heat, and it’s a stunning addition to any backyard setup.

Why Trust Us

In addition to being a shopping editor at Family Handyman, I’m what you could call a Solo Stove expert. I’ve tested nearly every offering from the brand, including the Mesa, the 1903 Adirondack Modern Chair and The Runner. So, when it was time to put the Tower Patio Heater to the test, I took it seriously. Also, Caitlyn Fitzpatrick, an editor and writer since 2014, helped update this piece using her commerce and SEO expertise.

FAQs

How much is the Solo Stove Tower?

The Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater retails for $699.99, but Solo Stove frequently runs sales and regularly marks down the heater.

How do you light the Solo Stove Tower?

To ignite the Solo Stove patio heater, you’ll light the pellets in the burn chamber behind the front door of the heater’s base. You’ll light the pellets just as you would in a fire pit or any other pellet-burning device. I recommend using a fire starter to get the pellets burning easier and faster.

Can a Solo Stove be on a porch?

According to Solo Stove, you can use its fire pits on a wooden deck when paired with the Stand. Of course, whenever using a live fire in any situation, you’ll want to use caution. Never leave your Solo Stove unattended for any period of time.

Do Solo Stoves put out much heat?

A Solo Stove or any other smokeless fire pit is similar to a traditional fire pit, except smoke is funneled upward instead of outward to reduce smoke inhalation. That means some heat is funneled upward with the smoke as well. So, if you want to add more warmth to your backyard fire pit setup, we recommend getting a patio heater like the Solo Stove Tower to put out additional heat.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Other reviewers weigh in on the Tower Patio Heater on the Solo Stove site—here’s what they had to say.

Verified buyer Arrian B. says the heater is easy to start. They write, “Light a starter cube, open the gate and it fires right up. Definitely puts out the heat.”

Seth C. says it makes cold North Dakota temperatures on his patios enjoyable for a longer period of time. “It took 2 of them, but the ambient temperature of my patio in Northwest North Dakota has increased to the point I can use it a month later in the fall and a month earlier in the spring. Warmer than the propane ones that we’ve had in the past,” they write.

Kim A. loves it, too. She writes, “It makes a big difference when it is in the 20’s. We had our Yukon and the Tower going and it was comfortable.”

Final Verdict

If you’ve been looking for a patio heater that uses an alternative fuel source to propane, then the Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater is one to consider. While it is an investment upfront, you may find that a pellet heater saves you money in the long run over a propane heater. Depending on what type of pellets you buy, they’re likely going to be cheaper than the cost of propane. Additionally, if you’re looking to avoid propane for other reasons, a pellet heater is an excellent option.

Again, I love the way the Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater looks. I love that it’s sleek yet rustic—and Solo Stove does say that the heater will change color over time. The black will change to dark gray, and the stainless steel will be bronze as the heater ages and the outside of it oxidizes. I, personally, like that rustic charm—and the fact that you can see the fire burning on a chilly night for the coziest autumn and winter vibes. Add in a cup of hot cider and a blanket, and you can create the patio setup of your dreams.

How It’s Going One Year Later

After one whole year of testing the Solo Stove Patio Heater, I can say that it definitely looks more rustic. It’s taken an entire year of weathering without coverage—snow, rain, lightning, winds, you name it. The Solo Stove Patio Heater has survived a frigid Midwestern winter with ice and snow, plus tornado season in Kansas. And it still works like a charm. Yes, it looks a bit weathered, but I don’t mind it. That’s sort of the nature of outdoor appliances and furniture.

I recommend purchasing Solo Stove’s Tower Shelter separately. Had I not intentionally exposed the patio heater to the elements for testing purposes, I would have snagged one to protect it. After all, it is a bit of an investment.

Where to Buy the Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater

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We Tried It

Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater

Solo Stove's patio heater lets you watch the fire that warms you for ultimate cozy vibes.

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The Tower Patio Heater retails for $760 at Solo Stove, and the Tower Shelter retails for $90, which is a great Solo Stove accessory to include. The best place to shop for the patio heater is directly from the retailer to ensure free shipping, a lifetime warranty, and customer service assistance if needed.

The post Solo Stove Patio Heater Review: My Thoughts After a Year of Testing appeared first on Family Handyman.

I snagged one of these Osker Ceramic Fireproof Fire Pit Skull Logs for myself this season, and let me tell you—it is way cooler than I thought it would be. It has a realistic look and size that is especially eerie with flames shooting out of it. If you plan on hosting people around a fire this Halloween season, it’s the perfect spooky conversation starter.

What is the Osker Fire Pit Skull?

The Osker Ceramic Skull Log is a fire accessory designed for fire pits, campfires, fireplaces and more. It’s compatible with gas, propane or wood fires and can withstand temperatures up to 1,800 degrees. It’s also good burn after burn, so you can use it repeatedly. In fact, it comes with a five-year factory guarantee, so it’ll be good for many hauntings to come.

When placed over a fire, flames protrude from the top of the ceramic fire pit skull, as well as its nose and eye sockets. The skull log comes in a variety of colors including light beige, gray and black. I opted for the light beige, and love the way it stands out against the contrast of the flames. Osker also makes an open-top fireproof skull and a three-pack of mini skulls, which would look great in a fireplace or on top of a mantel with candles underneath.

Overall, I am super impressed with the quality of the ceramic skull log. It doesn’t look or feel cheap whatsoever. That’s likely because it’s crafted and painted by hand. I plan on using my skull as a fireside decor for many years ahead.

VIA MERCHANT

Product Spotlight

Osker Ceramic Fire Pit Skull

This is a handcrafted skull log for your fire pit or fireplace.

$39.89 at Amazon

How to Use the Osker Fire Pit Skull

Using the Osker Ceramic Skull is simple. All you have to do is unbox it and put it in your fire pit or fireplace, light a fire and enjoy the view. If you don’t have a fireplace or fire pit, you can put a candle underneath the ceramic skull for indoor parties or trick-or-treating.

As I mentioned, the fire pit skull looks great outside of a fire too; I may even use mine as a centerpiece for a Halloween dinner party. This thing would look great on top of a candle in the center of a table setting. I did put the skull into my fire pit first, so the light beige color has some charred markings on it now, but I honestly think they make the skull look better and more rustic.

The Best Amazon User Reviews

With more than 1,300 ratings on Amazon and a 4.7-star average, others are loving the Osker Ceramic Skull too. Here’s what they have to say about it.

Five-star reviewer Collin M. writes, “Got these for a Halloween decoration, absolutely love them so far. The design is super cool with the hole on top, so the flame flicks right out of the eyes and the roof of the head really well. The design is very detailed and accurate to the picture. And they just look really cool stacked on top of a fire-pit, or we will also put them individually on top of torches to add a really neat looking effect.”

“The mini ones are nifty because they have various uses, and they are easy to store,” Collin M. continues. “Not too small like some other skulls that I have seen online, but the perfect size to show off details while still being versatile. They are very lightweight, yet still felt pretty solid. But I would try and avoid dropping them if possible just in case. They cool down quickly and also came with an added bonus of a couple packs of fire color-changing powder, which is really neat. All in all, these are perfect for what I was looking for, and I love them!”

Verified Amazon purchaser Wes Tyree says, “This is a great conversation piece. Everyone who has seen it has loved it. Especially now that it’s close to Halloween you can’t go wrong with this. Our kids love seeing the flames come through the nose and eyes. Then add a pack of the Chromo Flames and you’ll get the vibrant colors to make the overall appearance exciting for everyone. I highly recommend this product to anyone who’s looking to add a fun flare to their outdoor adventures.”

Where to Buy the Osker Fire Pit Skull

VIA MERCHANT

Product Spotlight

Osker Ceramic Fire Pit Skull

This ceramic, fireproof skull log sets on top of a candle or in any fire for the perfect Halloween decor.

$39.89 at Amazon

You can buy the Osker Ceramic Skull on Amazon now via Prime and have it by Halloween! The original retails for $70, and the open-top skull sells for $52. A bundle of the minis is on sale for $58 right now. If you’re asking yourself, Do I really need a ceramic skull for my fire? The answer is yes, yes you do. I want another one already.

The post If You’re Hosting a Halloween Party, You Need This Fire Pit Skull ASAP appeared first on Family Handyman.

Ideally, find a space between two objects that’s two to four feet wider than your favorite hammock is long. These can include any combination of trees, wooden or metal posts, beams, car racks or other stable structures you can wrap a strap around.

Pro tip: Get a set of adjustable hammock straps like these from Yellow Leaf Hammocks, which take all the frustration out of tying knots and fine-tuning the hang height.

No matter what you hang your hammock from, proceed as follows:

• Check for insect nests or hazards above and below the hammock that could fall on you, or that you could fall onto if the hammock fails.
• Stay at least 200 feet away from any water source, as per outdoor courtesy and water contamination regulations in many camping areas.
• Make sure your site isn’t blocking the path of animals or people.
• For optimal comfort, anticipate how the sun and shade will progress during the day.

If you’re hanging your hammock from a tree:

• The trunk should be a minimum of six inches in diameter, to avoid snapping or over-stressing the tree.
• Avoid breaking branches or damaging other vegetation around the hammock site.
• Always use tree-friendly straps made of flat webbing, and avoid narrow-gauge rope that can cut into the bark.
• Don’t hang a hammock in a tree where birds are nesting, or there are broken or dead branches above you.
• Never hang a hammock from a dead tree.
• Never drill or nail into a tree.

If you’re hanging your hammock from wooden posts or beams:

• Make sure they are at least four inches by four inches and anchored at least three feet into the ground with concrete reinforcement.
• Steer clear of rotting wood.

If you’re hanging a hammock from pipes:

• Never hang a hammock from water or sewer lines, for obvious reasons.

If you’re hanging a hammock from a vehicle rack:

• Make sure the rack is solid and rated for your weight.
• Make sure the vehicle is in park.

If you have a hammock stand:

• You’re done. Skip to Step 4.

Install the attachment points or straps

• If using hammock straps, wrap them around the tree or post by inserting one end through the loop, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• For a more permanent installation on wooden posts, use a through-bolt method through the beam (vs. a lag bolt) to keep it from pulling out over time.
• Pull down on the straps firmly, test they’re secure and won’t slide once you’re in the hammock.
  

Hang the hammock

• Clip the hammock ends onto the strap loops.
• Adjust the height so it’s at an angle of approximately 30 degrees from the ground. For maximum safety, the bottom should be only a couple of feet off the ground once you’re in it and it’s fully stretched. Usually this means the straps will be about five feet off the ground, around the tree or post.

Pro tip: Avoid hanging your hammock too taut. It may seem like it will be flatter, but it actually makes the sides more constricting once you’re lying in it.

Take a nap

Congrats, it’s now time to kick back, relax and recover from all of your hard hammock-hanging work.

Consider the following props:

• Good book or sketch pad;
• Hat to keep sun from eyes;
• Pillows and blankets;
• Portable speaker;
• Favorite beverage and snacks;
• Chill canine companion.

Pro tip: When you’re done relaxing, bring your hammock indoors, especially if it’s made of thin nylon fabric. Long-term UV damage can make it brittle and rip when you’re all stretched out and snoozing. We discovered this the hard way.

The post How To Hang a Hammock for Maximum Relaxation appeared first on Family Handyman.