Outdoor Blog

How to Boil Water While Camping

Published

5 years ago

August 29, 2019

Hot water is a luxury we often take for granted. When you’re at home, heating water for your morning coffee is as simple as turning on the kettle. Boiling water while camping can often present a little more of a challenge, as most of the time you won’t have a kettle or even electricity for that matter. Americans overall consume around 400 million cups of coffee per day, so most campers need a reliable way to boil water and get their morning caffeine fix.

There are numerous methods you can use to heat water while you’re on a camping trip, from specialized systems to simply heating over an open fire. Whether it’s for cooking, washing dishes, showering, or a simple hot drink, heating water is a requirement for any campsite. Read on to find out how to boil water while camping, using multiple different methods. There are tons of different options so matter what you’re requirements, we can help you find the perfect water heating method for you.

There are some things to consider before making a decision of your chosen method for heating and boiling water. Firstly, the type of camping you’re doing will affect how much space you have to carry stoves and kettles, as well as potentially heavy fuels. Propane canisters are quick to heat up water to a rolling boil but could be too expensive if you’re backpacking on a budget.

Relying on gathering fuel to burn on the trail is a more fiscally-friendly option, but only do this if you’re confident there will be enough materials available. If you’re going on a larger family camping trip, the method you apply must have the capacity to provide for everyone- it may not be sustainable to boil one cup of water at a time. Keep these stipulations in mind, and enjoy our list of 8 different ways of how to boil water while camping.

Jetboil builds extremely dependable backpacking stoves and camping systems that pack light, set up quick, and achieve rapid boils in minutes.

The Jetboil Cook System

One of the very best options on the market right now is the Jetboil Cook system. It’s a specialized camping stove which is incredibly versatile, completely adaptable, and on top of all that, lightweight and compact, perfect for backpacking and trekking. The Jetboil Flash promises to bring your water to a rapid and rolling boil in only 100 seconds, which is fast by anyone’s standards. Weighing 13.3 oz, or 370 grams, this portable stove won’t weigh too heavily on your back and will boil 100 liters of water for every 100g JetPower can.

It features a very compact design with the pot, stove, ignitor and stand, all built into one unit. For boiling only, their stoves use a gas feed. Propane is available with their stoves designed for cooking as well. The quick boil system is perfect for dehydrated backpacking meals and hot drinks, ideal for hiking. Designed using only the most efficient materials available, it boasts half the fuel consumption of traditional camping stoves. We recommend this system for lightweight backpackers and trekkers, you can use it to prepare hot drinks and dehydrated meals anywhere on the trail.

To use the Jetboil, all you have to do is attach the stove to the fuel canister, and attach the pot (filled with water) to the stove. Then simply turn the fuel knob counter-clockwise, press the ignitor, and that’s it- your water will boil in less than two minutes.

The Ghillie Camping Kettle

A classic UK design that is now being popularized in the US, the Ghillie Kettle features a design that is both unique and useful. The Ghillie Kettle Company has been producing since the 1800s, and decades of use have proven their designs very successful. The Ghillie Kettle features a fire actually inside the device and will boil water in three to five minutes. It uses only natural fuel, so is a more eco-friendly option for environmentally conscious campers.

There’s no need to buy special fuel or use refillable canisters; the Ghillie Kettle can be fuel by whatever you can gather on the trail. Grass, twigs, anything can be used to build the flames. It features three parts, a kettle, cap, and base unit where the kindling is added before placing the kettle on top.

This is not an ultra-high-tech design like the Jetboil System, rather an age-old technique that has withstood the passage of time and continues to be a top choice in the midst of countless modern alternatives. Because of the open interior and narrow opening, the fire inside will quickly build until it’s roaring out of the top. This kettle whistles once your water boils, and then can be poured out using the handle and chain.

This traditional camping kettle is a fail-safe option as there are very few technical problems that could arise. However, weighing in at 1.9 pounds, this is more suited to campground camping than hiking and backpacking. If you are a backpacker but you like the Ghillie Kettle’s no-hassle design, check out the Kelly Kettle; a smaller version that can be used for lighter-weight trips.

Traditional kettle pots are known for lasting a long time but aren’t always easily portable.

Camping stove

Camping stoves are still the most commonly known option for heating water and cooking as well. They’re generally more powerful and more versatile, basically the closest you’ll get to your stove at home. However, this comes with some downsides, as they’re often large and heavy, not appropriate for hiking or backpacking. If you’re setting up a base camp though, they’re an ideal option.

The Coleman Dual Burner Camp Stove is a great choice, with adjustable burners being a major advantage over stoves like the Jetboil. This means you can choose to heat without boiling, rather than boiling being the only option. This stove can be used for cooking as well rather than just boiling water, so it’s more multi-purpose than some other options on our list.

This Coleman model is very simple to use. You need only hook up the propane tank to the provided regulator pipe, and then to the camping stove in the front right corner. If you’re coming for an extended period of time, you can purchase an additional hose which would allow you to hook up to a 20lb fuel tank. A camping stove is ideal for large family camping trips, as the most heavy-duty and versatile piece of equipment on this list, it’s a good all-rounder as long as you don’t have to carry it far.

The MSR Pocket Rocket

This stove is similar to the Jetboil, but is even more compact. On the other hand, this one requires a little more gear, as you need a separate pot or pan as your water receptacle. This model also doesn’t feature an ignitor, so you’ll need to carry dry matches or a lighter. Boiling one liter of water in 3.5 minutes, and weighing only 73g, the MSR Pocketrocket is a high-efficiency option.

For long-distance hikers, equipment needs to be efficient in both the use of space and weight and this tiny but powerful camping stove fulfills both those requirements. It’s more than worth it to bring one of these along on the trail, to brew your cup of coffee and heat up your meals.

It’s easy to boil water using this device, just attach the stove to the fuel canister, turn the knob counter-clockwise, and light the burner with a match. After this, simply heat of your water and enjoy your hot beverage or meal.

Learning how to properly boil you water will depend on which kettle or boiling device you choose to use.

12v Car Kettle

If you take your car camping, this is a great no-hassle option. These kettles plug into your car’s cigarette lighter and usually boil enough water for two or three cups of coffee. For example, the Uniox Car Kettle has a capacity of 350ml and will boil your water in around 15 minutes. This product is ideal for early mornings on-the-go as well as camping trips and can be used for instant noodles and other dehydrated meals as well as coffee and tea.

With such a small capacity in comparison to other options on this list, we wouldn’t recommend relying on a car kettle to heat water for your whole family, but if all you need is a morning coffee, this is a simple and easy way to do it.

Traditionally, the most sure-fire and traditional way to boil water is in a pot or kettle over a small, open fire.

Bucket heaters

Using a 5-gallon bucket to heat water may seem a little over the top, but it’s a very effective way to heat up a large amount of water, ideal for showers or doing the dishes. The main disadvantage of this method is that it requires electricity, but if you’re in a campsite with power hookups then there’s no problem.

There are several different types of bucket heaters. Immersion bucket heaters can heat water to over 180 degrees Fahrenheit. These look like a sort of heating wand with a stainless steel guard, you simply plug them in and drop in the bucket. They’re completely waterproof and safe and can heat one gallon of water to 130 degrees in around 10 minutes. Another option is an insulated full-wrap design bucket heater. These wrap around the outside of your bucket, are safe to be used with plastic as well and heat water to 100-125 degrees Fahrenheit.

Solar water heating bags (solar showers)

These water heating bags are cheap, easy to use, and need only sunlight to be effective. This is the main advantage of solar showers, as they are 100% environmentally friendly, requiring no fire, fuel, or electricity. They work by absorbing the sun’s rays through their dark color and heating up the water within. Another advantage of these bags is that they back down into a very small size, so they’re appropriate for any type of camping, from backcountry to RV’s.

One disadvantage of solar showers is that they do require time to heat up, up to three hours even in warm conditions. They are also not as effective for winter camping, so they are only really viable for three seasons.

It’s worth noting that although these are a great choice for heating water, they can’t really be used to boil it. Try using warmed water from a solar heating bag to boil afterward, making the process speedier than starting with cold water. This is a perfect way to stay green and clean, but if a solar shower isn’t the right option for you, consider building your own DIY camping shower.

Boiling water over a campfire

Using an open fire to boil your water is the most obvious choice when it comes to camping. This is the oldest method of boiling water in the book, used for generations for cooking in the wilderness. It’s likely that you’ll already have a campfire lit, so why not use the free energy to boil water for your tea.

This is a great option for the minimalist camper on a tight budget, as all the materials you need can be gathered along the trail, just make sure you bring along a sturdy pot as a receptacle. If you don’t have a pot, with a little extra work a clean can or even a paper cup can be used to heat water over the fire, although this is a slightly more difficult approach.

One disadvantage of using a campfire is the inability to control the heat, with no knobs to turn it up or down. This method also takes longer than most propane or butane gas options, but on the other hand, fuel can be gathered on-site. This means you can avoid carrying potentially very heavy canisters of fuel for unknown distances to your campground.

Any time you use a campfire, we recommend reminding yourself of the campfire safety guidelines. As much fun as open fires are, they can also be quite dangerous, so always make sure you and everyone on your camping trip is safe and happy.

Follow these steps to boil water over an open fire:

Ensure you have plenty of fuel to keep your fire going. You’ll need kindling and tinder to get it started, and larger pieces to keep it going, and hotter to boil your water faster.

You’ll need a secure way to support your pot over the fire, once the coals are established. The best way to do this is to place two large logs or rocks on each side of the fire, close enough to balance your pot.

Then, simply balance your pot or another receptacle, filled with water, above the flames. Depending on how close it sits to the coals, the water will boil in between 10 and 20 minutes.

Be careful not to burn your hands when removing your pot from the fire, remember that open flames are dangerous. You can use a thick rag as an oven glove, otherwise, you can use tongs or pliers if it’s not too heavy. If your pot has a handle on top rather than the side, you can use a wire hanger to hook it up and lift away. Campfires aren’t only good for boiling water- they’re the perfect thing to sit around in the evening while you toast marshmallows, and are an excellent source of warmth when it gets a little cooler at night.

People roasting mash mellows over a fire pit.

Once you’ve learned how to properly boil water, you can enjoy everything from green tea to boiled rice.

Final Verdict:

All this talk about coffee leads us to think about the most famous coffee drinking state in America- Seattle! To combine two of our loves, coffee, and camping, check out some of the best campgrounds in Seattle for a little inspiration for your next camping trip.

If you’re looking to heat water for showers, a bucket heater or solar shower is the best option- they’re efficient for heating up large amounts, but don’t quite hit boiling which may be necessary for cooking or drinking. For lightweight backpackers, check out the JetBoil or MSR stoves, as they’re both highly space and time-efficient. If you’re doing some serious hiking and need a light and speedy way to heat up dehydrated meals or get your caffeine fix, you can’t go wrong with these ultra high tech solutions.

For those who like a time tested and simple solution to boiling water, a Ghillie Kettle will never do you wrong. They’re guaranteed for 10 years and have been used by campers all over the world for decades. Using fuel like twigs and pinecones, you’ll never have to purchase new canisters of propane, all you need to buy is the kettle itself and your water will be easily boiled for years to come.

Of course, there’s always the most traditional way of boiling water on a camping trip-over an open fire. You can heat water for a cup of coffee using only a clean can placed in the coals- just be careful when you remove it.

Boiling water while camping, although easy, is also an important accomplishment. The type of adventure you’re planning will mean the method varies, but rest assured there’s the perfect solution for you. There are many different reasons you might need hot water on your trip, but chances are that you can employ at least one of these methods.

Bonus tip: If you would like to know more about how to boil water over a campfire, check out this video below!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter