Country Vacations & Resorts

How to carry all the things you may need while camping without getting so weighted down you can’t walk?

Here are some camping backpacks that may help do the trick.

Sleek and lightweight, the WOMENS ION 20 H56 OS is the women-specific pack ready for any outdoor adventure.

Extremely lightweight, this 20-liter pack is designed with a molded EXOLITE back panel and a dual-density Airmesh shoulder harness to comfortably fit your back.

The ZEALOT 85 PACK JK3 L is a new expedition-level pack designed specifically as an ultimate large-capacity pack for backpackers.

The X Radial™ 2.0 frame and compression-molded foam back panel mold and conform to the shape of your back; the articulated design of both elements working in tandem provide a close, comfortable fit while twisting, stretching, and turning that accompanies traveling by foot across wild and rugged terrain. Channels running through the back panel ensure airflow, providing breathability, and an articulated compression-molded foam hipbelt and shoulder straps – both wrapped in moisture-wicking Dri-Lex® fabric for a comfortable, secure platform for lugging heavy loads over long distances.

Available in 80 and 85-liter interior volumes.

Light, sleek and uncompromising – and perfect for an epic day on the mountain is the PROPHET 40 7D8 S/M New Summit Series® technical pack made with indestructible Bombastic™ fabric that's traditionally used for car airbags.

Great for day trips or when a lightweight but sturdy option is a requirement.

For carrying heavy loads the ZEALOT 85 PACK JK3 S new expedition-level pack is designed specifically as an ultimate large-capacity pack for backpackers.

The X Radial™ 2.0 frame and compression-molded foam back panel mold and conform to the shape of your back; the articulated design of both elements working in tandem provide a close, comfortable fit while twisting, stretching, and turning that accompanies traveling by foot across wild and rugged terrain.

The ANGSTROM 30 PACK 472 OS is a fastpacking favorite.

This hydration-compatible, 30-liter pack features a zip rain cover to keep your gear dry during all-day treks when it's pouring. Designed with a huge front stretch drop pocket, and two large stretch side pockets for water bottles, this go-to lightweight pack is ideal for year-round excursions.

Find everything you need for your camping expedition…

Hopefully you got some great ideas on sleeping bags from the post below.

Now it’s time to consider the camper’s traveling dwelling – the all-important tent. Long gone are the days when tents only came in what looked like Army camouflage colors. And although numerous comedy routines have been based on people attempting to pitch a tent, let’s just watch those from afar and find a tent a bit easier to “construct.”

This MOUNTAIN MANOR 6 K55 OS provides a portable palace for you and five of your closest friends and this new fully featured, six-person tent crushes it at the campsite.

Color-coded poles make pitching easy, with snap-on exterior lash points. Extra outdoor space created with fly attached. Compresses and folds easily for quick take-down. Stores in a duffel sack.

8-person tent size, MOUNTAIN MANOR 8 K55 OS also available.

The MOUNTAIN 25 56P OS is bomber squared.

“When it’s nuking outside, you’ll be real glad you have it.”
Cedar Wright,The North Face®
Athlete, Rock Climber

Bomber, high-mountain protection with refined features, this two-person tent is the most compact of the Summit Series® expedition tents.

With the SPECTRUM 23 1W3 OS, being able to travel far and fast doesn’t mean you have to sleep on the cold, damp earth!

Weighing just over four pounds, the Spectrum 23′s lightweight design allows outdoor enthusiasts to remain unencumbered by bulky equipment but retain the comfort of protection against harsh elements. Withstanding winds of 130.2 mph, you’ll be “blown away” by how resilient this two-person tent just is.

I’ve always thought Dome Houses were pretty neat – maybe I’ll get a Dome Tent instead!

DOME 8 56P OS

For almost four decades, The North Face® expedition tents have set the standard for unrivaled performance in merciless environs such as Mt. Everest and Antarctica.

Ideal for such extreme and pitiless locations, this fast-pitching base camp shelter uses geodesic principals to achieve ultimate durability and efficiency of space. The choice among top mountaineers on major expeditions, this strong, lightweight tent sleeps eight.

Also available in a 5-person model – DOME 5 56P OS

Look for camping gear, waterproof clothes and shoes, extreme sports accessories, and even special offers including free shipping from The North Face®

Or at least can be “all about” the bag – sleeping bag that is!

I’m not much of a camper. Maybe if I’d had better equipment on my first few ventures I might have had a better impression of the experience.

Camping accessories have gone high-comfort and in some cases high-tech. For those who think “Fall” and think “camping” – we’ll have posts over the next few weeks with the latest in camping gear.

Here’s a great place to start – the sleeping bag. These comfy choices from The North Face.

Selecting and purchasing the right sleeping bag for your proposed camping trips is important and is no time to buy less. It is not outside the realm of possibility to say that the bag you choose could someday save your life.

GREEN KAZOO 377 LNG RH

Made from 100 percent recycled fabrics, this technical 15ºF down sleeping bag sustains three-seasons of exploration.

Using the same design as the popular Blue Kazoo sleeping bag, but incorporating eco-friendly materials, this mummy bag is filled with 650 goose down, and compresses well for backpacking. By using recycled fabrics, each bag reduces energy consumption by 84 percent and CO2 output by 77 percent.

INFERNO 7D8 LNG RH

Suited for use at the edge of human tolerance (-40ºF), this thermal expedition bag is amply filled with 800+ fill goose down, making it the warmest down bag available from The North Face®.

For expeditions where the choice of gear may be the difference between summit success or air lift rescue, this premier bag features an ergonomic footbox, waterproof, breathable shell fabric, and a trapezoidal box baffle construction that eliminates any cold spots.

CASAVAL XL 40Q LNG RH

Durable for three-season camping or backpacking, this oversized synthetic 20ºF) bag features a sculpted hood and a shoulder-level zip pocket.

Differentiated drawcords at opening let you cinch from the cool weather.

Nylon mesh storage sack and stuff included.

ALEUTIAN G04 REG RH

A campground favorite, this classic mummy bag keeps campers warm in temperatures down to 20ºF.

Made with a silky taffeta shell and liner, this smooth bag is insulated with thermally efficient synthetic insulation that won’t lose its warmth or loftiness when compressed and shoved into a daypack.

TUNDRA 197 REG RH

For expeditions in the high mountains where trees are scarce and temperatures average in the single digits, retreat into the Tundra to stay warm and escape the brutal conditions.

Keeping explorers warm in temperatures down to -20F, this sleeping bag lets you survey terrain you may have thought to be uninhabitable.

What perfect timing for back-to-school. Time for a new backpack?

We found some pretty decent shoes good for wet walking environments. Now, some options for serious walking and hiking from The North Face.

MEN’S DHAULAGIRI II GTX BOOT

Constructed for load-hauling exploration, this lightweight suede hiking boot features a waterproof, breathable, GORE-TEX® membrane to keep feet dry and comfortable in wet weather.

X-Frame® ankle support plus Heal Cradle™ technology provides stable footing even with extra weight on your back.

“Heal Cradle” – I love it!

MEN’S MISSOULA BOOT

Montana-inspired workwear boot fuses rugged styling with serious winter protection. Designed with a waterproof, full-grain leather upper and a waterproof, HydroSeal membrane, this weather-resistant boot keeps feet warm with PrimaLoft Eco insulation throughout.

MEN’S SYNCLINE GTX BOOT
Keeping you light on your feet without sacrificing carrying capacity, stability or durability, this new lightweight, breathable, durable day hiking boot is designed to cover technical terrain when weight and comfort are paramount. Resilient nubuck upper features waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort Range membrane to keep feet dry in wet weather. Vibram® rubber outsole provides secure traction over varied terrain.

WOMEN’S JANNU II GTX BOOT

Proportioned specifically for women backpackers, this classic hiking boot is designed to negotiate technical, varied terrain over the course of multi-day excursions. Full-leather hiker delivers waterproof, breathable, GORE-TEX® performance and technical, X-Frame™ stability for demanding trail conditions

WOMEN’S DHAULAGIRI II GTX BOOT

Proportioned specifically for female backpackers, this lightweight suede hiking boot is constructed for load-hauling exploration with a waterproof, breathable, GORE-TEX® membrane to keep feet dry and comfortable in wet weather. Rugged yet breathable, this classic backpacking boot includes X-Frame® ankle support plus Heal Cradle™ technology for stable footing even with extra weight on your back.

Women’s Betasso II

A lightweight trail-running shoe that is highly durable, stable, and adaptable to all surfaces from gnarly singletrack to occasional road. Stability-driven design constructed for the medium-arched pronator.

One for the boys…

BOYS’ VINDICATOR WP SHOE

And one for the girls…

GIRLS’ VINDICATOR WP SHOE

Walking in, near, or around the water this time of year can be tricky. Beach sand gets very hot. Boat docks can get slippery when wet – especially if there is any algae involved. Even cool mountain streams can be hazardous to your feet if you happen to step on a sharp rock the wrong way. One lousy blister can make every future step an agony. I speak from more than one experience.

If your feet hurt or are injured, your vacation will be negatively impacted. Time now to think about some solid shoes for hiking, boating, “beaching,” and any other outdoor activities you have planned for 2011.

MEN’S HYDROSHOCK

Built for amphibious adventures, this water-loving shoe features a featherweight design courtesy of an injection-molded EVA cage upper with drainage holes and breathable, protective mesh. Quick-pull lace system features a lock at top for easy adjustment mid-paddle. Rubber pods on bottom aid with traction on slippery, uneven surfaces ideal for entering/exiting a raft or kayak.

MEN’S APRES FLIP

Perfect for lounging after a long day’s activities, this new athletic-styled flip-flop features a silicone-injected footbed to provide unparalleled comfort.

Partially recycled out sole and will be great for the beach!

I call this next one a “Shandal.” Good for people like me who need more foot support than many sandals offer.

WOMEN’S HEDGEFROG

Not really a shoe and not really a sandal, this hybrid is equally at home both in the water and on the trail. Designed with a scuppered topsole for rapid water drainage, a quick-drying stretch mesh and synthetic nubuck upper, and a SBR lining package for all-day comfort, this low-profile hybrid includes a high traction, grippy outsole for secure footing on slick surfaces.

WOMEN’S HYDROSHOCK MARY-JANE

For women who require a shoe that withstands the trek to and down the rapids, this amphibious slip-on is for you. Designed for water and land adventures, this Mary Jane features a featherweight design courtesy of an injection-molded EVA cage upper with drainage holes and breathable, quick-drying mesh for added protection. Rubber pods on bottom aid with traction on slippery, uneven surfaces.

And a couple of options for Junior Explorers…Girls

And Boys…

Get ready for back-to-school with products from The North Face. Here’s a coupon for August savings!

Hiking, walking, or touring Luray Caverns…Rocky Mountain Trail has clothing, boots, backpacks, and shoes you’ll need.

Rocky Mountain Trail 10% Instant Rebate

The North Face Men’s Clothing: Free Shipping!

Free Shipping: Women’s Jackets from the North face, Columbia Marmot and more. Save 60% on select jackets

Just in time for fall and winter shopping – only good through October 31st, 2010.

And a couple “Hot Product” suggestions…

WOMEN'S TKA 100 MICROVELOUR GLACIER 1/4 ZIP

MEN’S VINTAGE WAFFLE TEE