Tag Archives: camping

A micro-camper with glass doors & a skylight + other camping essentials you need on your outdoor adventures

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After a tiring week at work, with the weekend joyfully looming ahead of me, I often find myself fantasizing about a short sweet getaway! Just a few days away from my hectic life, and this hectic world, in a bubble of my own, where all my worries are nowhere to be seen. And with the summer season setting in, I’m definitely in the mood to soak up some sun; and, camping could be a great outdoor activity. Although camping does have a few downsides too – I mean, you have to get down and dirty, live life on the road, and tackle the moodiness of the elements. In such a scenario, having a set of trustworthy and handy camping products can make a world of difference! Having the right products by your side can make your life much easier during those crucial moments. From a portable power station to a camping chair that doubles up as a carrying tool – we’ve curated some fun and functional camping designs for you. Enjoy!

1. Emma

A camping trailer with a distinctive personality, Emma is designed to make those scenic rides in the city outskirts more exciting. The trailer is fashioned with a glass door on the passenger side. Kuckoo will give adventurers an option to customize the camper with a glass door on the driver’s side as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

Emma is the second desirable camper from Kuckoo. Bruno, the first variant, is a lovable option in the rugged camper market in Europe. Emma borrows the acceptable mechanics and layout of the Bruno and scales it down in size to make the micro camper easier to tow using a vehicle of choice.

What we like

  • Easier to tow using a vehicle of choice
  • The glass sides of the Emma along with the rear glass window and a skylight in the living area, make this camper a day rider’s delight

What we dislike

  • It’s not yet on the market!

2. The Edison Light Stick

Inspired by the vintage lantern, the Edison Light Stick from Barebones is a multifunctional flashlight on Huckberry, that would be super helpful on all your outdoor adventures. It emits a warm glow that is great in emergencies and functions as a direct light for essential tasks like preparing food or fetching water.

Why is it noteworthy?

The lantern-inspired light glows warmly is multifunctional and can instantly uplift the mood in the camp or double as a reading light for those who still love catching on some good old reading during their camping trips. The glass tube body of the Edison Light Stick features brass and copper construction on top and bottom, while leather accents complete its handsome look.

What we like

  • Equipped with seven different light modes so you can have your ideal ambiance anytime, anywhere!
  • Exquisite brass and copper construction accentuated with leather accents

What we dislike

  • The price tag is a little hefty compared to similar products on the market

3. The LIPOWER Mars-2000

Meet the LIPOWER Mars-2000, a beer-cooler-sized power station that gives you up to 2000W of power no matter where you are. Whether you’re camping outdoors, spending a cool evening at the beach, going on a road trip, or even taking your camera and drone on a day-long expedition for work or casual photoshoots, the LIPOWER Mars-2000 is a pretty capable portable power source that’s equipped with EV-grade LFP batteries for sustained power no matter what your requirement.

Why is it noteworthy?

The 1460Wh power station weighs 35.5 lbs (16.1 kilograms) and comes with built-in handles that let you load it on the back of a car and carry it pretty much anywhere you want. The LIPOWER Mars-2000 offers 10 different ports to charge/power a whole slew of devices, including 3 110V AC ports, 3 12V DC ports (including one car outlet), 3 USB-A ports (including one USB3.0 port for fast charging), and one USB-C port that outputs 60W, making it perfect for phones, tablets, and even laptops.

What we like

  • There’s also an input for plugging solar panels into the LIPOWER Mars-2000, charging it via solar energy up to 80% in 5 hours, according to its makers, LIPOWER

What we dislike

  • It is a bit bulky to be carrying around in the outdoors

4. Supernova

GravaStar who’ve surprised geeks with mecha-inspired Bluetooth speakers in the recent past have added another sci-fi speaker cum LED lamp to their line-up. Dubbed Supernova, the accessory looks like a three-legged robot, something anyone would want to sport in their geeky den.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Bluetooth speaker besides looking really inviting to own, fairs well when it comes to the overall build quality, functionality, and hardware specifications. It is crafted out of a solid zinc alloy metallic body standing on GravaStar’s iconic tripod legs that we saw in their previous designs. The accessory with a 3-inch full-range speaker has 25 watts of power, 90db of output, and half-inch high-frequency tweeter for rich, crisp sound delivery.

What we like

  • In the music-playing mode, this light can synch to the rhythm of the audio for partygoers

What we dislike

  • Could get easily damaged in the outdoors

5. The Chair-A

The Chair – A can be “half folded” into a form that almost resembles a “jigae” or a traditional Korean carrying tool. It is practically a frame that lets you load more things on your back without having to cram them into your backpack or have them dangling precariously from bags.

Why is it noteworthy?

This kind of tool has been used to easily transport loads of firewood, and its design hasn’t really changed at all in the past centuries. This chair, however, applies an A-frame design that makes the carrier look a bit more aesthetic while also providing more stability.

What we like

  • It folds completely flat so that it can be conveniently stored in cramped spaces
  • The arms do help shift the weight a bit to prevent strain and injury

What we dislike

  • Not very comfortable for prolonged use because of the fabric seat
  • Absence of a backrest

6. The Mobile Universe

Called the Mobile Universe, this portable battery is super easy to carry along when you go camping. It has been amped with different inputs and outputs, allowing you to power up all the diverse devices that you require when you go camping. You have AC output, USB-A, USB-C, 12V for car sockets, and other things you may need.

Why is it noteworthy?

It can charge smartphones and even power a small coffeemaker. The device also has different wires and connectors, living up to its “universal” name. Campers and those that will be spending time in the great outdoors can definitely benefit from bringing a device like this if they don’t want to totally go off-grid and still have access to things like phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.

What we like

  • Has some significant power to it, allowing it to charge all kinds of devices

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept, and we need more information on it

7. The EcoFlow River 2

As with any second-generation product, the EcoFlow River 2 has been able to learn from the lessons of its predecessors. Given the gap between the first and second EcoFlow Rivers, there has definitely been plenty of lessons to serve as the foundations of a better product. Fortunately, EcoFlow did seem to have benefited from hindsight, allowing it to turn the River 2 into a sleeker and more compact power station that no longer looks like a car battery.

Why is it noteworthy?

The biggest change you will notice comparing the two generations is that the River 2 has a more refined appearance thanks to its dual-tone color scheme and flat top. The large carrying handle no longer arcs over the top but instead juts out from the back. That makes it easier to stash the power station away in cramped spaces and put things on top of it. Having the handle extend to one side only also reduces the space it needs to occupy. This helps give the box a cleaner look, but relocating the carrying handle does have its share of consequences as well.

What we like

  • It will take more than 3,000 charging cycles (zero to full) before it starts to lose its full capacity

What we dislike

  • No wireless charging
  • Carrying the EcoFlow River 2, however, might be difficult for some other purpose. With the carrying handle now at the back, the box’s center of gravity is changed when you lift it up

8. The Bag Sofa

Designed to be an excellent portable seating solution, this inflatable chair can be set up in any kind of outdoor environment, allowing you to simply sit back and chill. Called the Bag Sofa, the chair can be folded down to a really flat rectangular piece, that you can easily carry with you anywhere!

Why is it noteworthy?

Part of the bag is made of hard pieces that form the structure or frame of the sofa, while soft cloth-like parts serve as the connecting materials that allow the chair to fold. It’s almost like those fabric-covered foldable boxes, except it’s shaped to form the semblance of a chair when unfolded.

What we like

  • Super portable design that can be carried anywhere
  • Features a fabric material that protects the skin from sticking to the bag’s synthetic surface

What we dislike

  • We’re not sure how comfortable the chair would be to sit on, especially for long durations

9. The Batch #003: PARTS Multipurpose Tool

The Leatherman knives have been widely loved by outdoorsmen for ages galore! The knives’ durability and ability to stay sharp for life make them an absolute fan favorite amongst adventure lovers.  And their latest interesting launch is the Batch #003: PARTS multipurpose tool with its unique set of features. A folding knife at heart, the multitool ventures into the world of interchangeable blade options for an EDC.

Why is it noteworthy?

According to Leatherman, their motive is to create the best folding knife out there from the current inventory of products in-house. The result is a multipurpose tool crafted out of 26 parts. It gets an innovative interchangeable blade system to swap compatible blades for the needed task at hand. All this while being ergonomically comfortable and highly functional to the last bit. The EDC gets the G10 handle for a better grip.

What we like

  • The knife can be swapped between the premium S30V stainless steel work blade for hardcore tasks or the 154CM blade tailored for normal household tasks
  • Crafted from 26 parts

What we dislike

  • Has a rather hefty price tag

10. The Tomori Lantern Kit

The Tomori Lantern Kit is really quite interesting because rather than providing us with a ready-made lantern, it functions as a kit that lets you create and set up your own lantern, and then swiftly put it aside when you’re done using it. Once the lantern collapses, it barely occupies any space, and you can fit a conventional flashlight inside it!

Why is it noteworthy?

The base of the kit is a foldable cardboard piece that serves as the flashlight holder and stable structure of the lamp. The kit comes with a rather nondescript LED flashlight that you can use on its own when not docked inside the lantern. In fact, the cardboard base can hold any cylindrical flashlight that is less than 30mm in diameter and 160mm in length. This means that you can use the same flashlight for the lantern as well as for typical uses, or you can have a set of backup flashlights when one’s battery goes empty.

What we like

  • The entire kit, excluding the flashlight, folds down to a flat A4-sized package, perfect for stashing in bags or drawers, ready for use in an emergency
  • Quite fun to put together and set up your own lantern

What we dislike

  • Cannot withstand rain

The post A micro-camper with glass doors & a skylight + other camping essentials you need on your outdoor adventures first appeared on Yanko Design.

This futuristic tiny electric RV has been insulated with sheep wool on the inside

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If you’re someone who loves to go camping, especially after a long tiring week at work, then the RV ‘Coast’ might just be your next buy! Because nothing is more important than the right RV for all your outdoor adventures. The right RV manages to feel like a home on wheels, allowing you to feel completely cozy and comfortable. And the RV ‘Coast’ ticks off all these checkboxes! Designed by Aero Build, the luxurious and electric RV is meant for those who love an exciting life on the road. It helps you bounce around from one city to another in comfort.

Designer: Aero Build

The Coast’s most fascinating feature is the fact that it’s been completely insulated with sheep wool on the inside. This allows the trailer to stay warm in the winter, and cool in the summer, ensuring that the passengers feel comfortable, and the interiors are well-regulated at all times. Besides being insulated with sheep wool, the RV is powered by renewable energy, with the help of five 1360-watt solar panels on the roof. It has also been equipped with an 810Ah lithium-ion battery bank to power the trailer when it’s on the road. It also includes an electric tongue jack.

The Coast is quite evidently eco-friendly, and the fact that it uses 50% less water in its shower system via its water-saving shower head only adds on to this quality. The toilet has been amped with a dry-flush function, that tackles any issues regarding sewage or blackwater.

“Coast provides a safe and comfortable home all year round, no matter where the road takes you,” says Aero Build. The company also continued to say that comfort should never be a compromise. And the RV Coast was designed based on this premise. The interiors of the RV feature a sitting area that also doubles up as a dining room. This room showcases a wooden table and cushioned benches. The kitchen is placed next to it, and it is equipped with an electric stovetop and all the essential amenities you would expect in a kitchen. The sleeping and the gathering area are separated using a cabinet and a curtain, to impart an element of privacy to the space. The bathroom is located next to the bed, and the sink is adjacent to the fridge, in an attempt to maximize the space available in the RV.

The post This futuristic tiny electric RV has been insulated with sheep wool on the inside first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 essential outdoor gear you need on your 2023 camping adventures

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Getting back to the basics is always fun, especially if it involves heading outdoors, soaking up some sun, and enjoying the best of what nature has to offer. If you’re someone who loves camping and embarking on outdoor adventures, then you definitely need a few outdoor essentials by your side once you leave your house! You need products that help you get down and dirty, live life on the road, and tackle the moodiness of the elements. And, we’ve put together a collection of handy, reliable, and trustworthy outdoor gear that are the sidekicks you need next time you go camping. From an Edison bulb-inspired flashlight that emits a warm glow to a MagSafe-compatible power bank that is all set to go camping with you – these fun and functional camping designs are all you need for your next glamping trip in 2023!

1. The Edison Light Stick

Inspired by the vintage lantern, the Edison Light Stick from Barebones is a multifunctional flashlight on Huckberry, that would be super helpful on all your outdoor adventures. It emits a warm glow that is great in emergencies and functions as a direct light for essential tasks like preparing food or fetching water.

Why is it noteworthy?

The lantern-inspired light glows warmly is multifunctional and can instantly uplift the mood in the camp or double as a reading light for those who still love catching on some good old reading during their camping trips. The glass tube body of the Edison Light Stick features brass and copper construction on top and bottom, while leather accents complete its handsome look.

What we like

  • Equipped with seven different light modes so you can have your ideal ambiance anytime, anywhere!
  • Exquisite brass and copper construction accentuated with leather accents

What we dislike

  • The price tag is a little hefty compared to similar products on the market

2. The LIPOWER Mars-2000

The LIPOWER Mars-2000 is a power station that can provide you with 2000W of power no matter where you travel! The power station quite strangely looks like a beer cooler. But that doesn’t mean you take it less seriously, the power source is really capable and has been equipped with EV-grade LFP batteries for sustained power no matter what your requirement is.

Why is it noteworthy?

The LIPOWER Mars-2000 offers 10 different ports to charge/power a whole slew of devices, including 3 110V AC ports, 3 12V DC ports (including one car outlet), 3 USB-A ports (including one USB3.0 port for fast charging), and one USB-C port that outputs 60W, making it perfect for phones, tablets, and even laptops.

What we like

  • There’s also an input for plugging solar panels into the LIPOWER Mars-2000, charging it via solar energy up to 80% in 5 hours, according to its makers, LIPOWER
  • Perfect for camping, tailgating and even working in the outdoors

What we dislike

  • It is a bit bulky to be carrying around the outdoors

3. The Bag Sofa

Designed to be an excellent portable seating solution, this inflatable chair can be set up in any kind of outdoor environment, allowing you to simply sit back and chill. Called the Bag Sofa, the chair can be folded down to a really flat rectangular piece, that you can easily carry with you anywhere!

Why is it noteworthy?

Part of the bag is made of hard pieces that form the structure or frame of the sofa, while soft cloth-like parts serve as the connecting materials that allow the chair to fold. It’s almost like those fabric-covered foldable boxes, except it’s shaped to form the semblance of a chair when unfolded.

What we like

  • Super portable design that can be carried anywhere
  • Features a fabric material that protects the skin from sticking to the bag’s synthetic surface

What we dislike

  • We’re not sure how comfortable the chair would be to sit on, especially for long durations

4. The Mobile Universe

Called the Mobile Universe, this portable battery is super easy to carry along when you go camping. It has been amped with different inputs and outputs, allowing you to power up all the diverse devices that you require when you go camping. You have AC output, USB-A, USB-C, 12V for car sockets, and other things you may need.

Why is it noteworthy?

It can charge smartphones and even power a small coffeemaker. The device also has different wires and connectors, living up to its “universal” name. Campers and those that will be spending time in the great outdoors can definitely benefit from bringing a device like this if they don’t want to totally go off-grid and still have access to things like phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.

What we like

  • Has some significant power to it, allowing it to charge all kinds of devices

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept, and we need more information on it

5. The Chair – A

This intriguing-looking portable chair is called the Chair – A, and it can be folded in half so that it resembles a “jigae” or a traditional Korean carrying tool! It functions as a frame that lets you load more things on your back without having to cram them into your backpack or have them dangling precariously from bags.

Why is it noteworthy?

This kind of tool has been used to easily transport loads of firewood, and its design hasn’t really changed at all in the past centuries. This chair, however, applies an A-frame design that makes the carrier look a bit more aesthetic while also providing more stability.

What we like

  • It folds completely flat so that it can be conveniently stored in cramped spaces
  • The arms do help shift the weight a bit to prevent strain and injury
  • Functions as a chair and a carrying tool

What we dislike

  • Not very comfortable because of the fabric seat
  • Absence of a backrest

6. The Lava Box

This portable stove is quite unlike the other kitchen appliances we often come across, especially ones designed for the outdoors. The Lava Box is minimal, classy, and inspired by a vinyl player! Its luxurious aesthetics make it super fun to use, and also super fun to carry around and show off! What you get is a box with a cover and when you open it, that’s where the stove shows itself.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s a single burner with a refillable butane gas container fitting right under it. There’s a wooden know on the right that lets you adjust the flame level for things like when you’re heating water, frying something, or grilling pieces of meat. There are also wooden handles on the side for when you need to move the stove when it’s in use or has recently been used and you don’t want to burn your fingers.

What we like

  • Small enough to carry with you on your outdoor trip
  • Inspired by a vinyl player, giving it a luxurious and classy look

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept!

7. The Batch #003: PARTS Multipurpose Tool

The Leatherman knives have been widely loved by outdoorsmen for ages galore! The knives’ durability and ability to stay sharp for life make them an absolute fan favorite amongst adventure lovers.  And their latest interesting launch is the Batch #003: PARTS multipurpose tool with its unique set of features. A folding knife at heart, the multitool ventures into the world of interchangeable blade options for an EDC.

Why is it noteworthy?

According to Leatherman, their motive is to create the best folding knife out there from the current inventory of products in-house. The result is a multipurpose tool crafted out of 26 parts. It gets an innovative interchangeable blade system to swap compatible blades for the needed task at hand. All this while being ergonomically comfortable and highly functional to the last bit. The EDC gets the G10 handle for a better grip.

What we like

  • The knife can be swapped between the premium S30V stainless steel work blade for hardcore tasks or the 154CM blade tailored for normal household tasks
  • Crafted from 26 parts

What we dislike

  • Has a rather hefty price tag

8. The Tomori Lantern Kit

The Tomori Lantern Kit is really quite interesting because rather than providing us with a ready-made lantern, it functions as a kit that lets you create and set up your own lantern, and then swiftly put it aside when you’re done using it. Once the lantern collapses, it barely occupies any space, and you can fit a conventional flashlight inside it!

Why is it noteworthy?

The base of the kit is a foldable cardboard piece that serves as the flashlight holder and stable structure of the lamp. The kit comes with a rather nondescript LED flashlight that you can use on its own when not docked inside the lantern. In fact, the cardboard base can hold any cylindrical flashlight that is less than 30mm in diameter and 160mm in length. This means that you can use the same flashlight for the lantern as well as for typical uses, or you can have a set of backup flashlights when one’s battery goes empty.

What we like

  • The entire kit, excluding the flashlight, folds down to a flat A4-sized package, perfect for stashing in bags or drawers, ready for use in an emergency
  • Quite fun to put together and set up your own lantern

What we dislike

  • Cannot withstand rain

9. The Tekto Romeo

Called the Tekto Romeo, this incredibly lightweight and super-slim knife is a nifty piece of EDC gear that every EDC lover needs to get their hands on! It features a carbon fiber handle and a build that is extremely maneuverable!

Why is it noteworthy?

Weighing 41 grams (0.09 lbs), the Romeo is amazingly lightweight and showcases a profile that’s volumes slimmer than most knives. But its lightweight and delicate profile shouldn’t make you doubt its functionality and precision as a knife! Romeo’s handle is fabricated from durable carbon fiber, and its Tanto-style blade forged from M390 “Super Steel” blade goes above and beyond to resist wear and tear, even with regular, rough use.

What we like

  • Super slim and lightweight build

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

10. SHARGE

If you’re someone who loves embarking on adventures in the outdoors, but are tired of always carrying portable power generators that sometimes can be more like excessive baggage than functional essentials, then the SHARGE concept is what you need!

Why is it noteworthy?

If you’re a camping fan, for example, you might want something that doesn’t exactly look like rugged tanks but at least has ties to your favorite hobby. It’s not by coincidence, then, that the SHARGE was designed to mimic the ridges you’d find on camping boxes. While the design is already visually appealing in itself, the structure also helps diffuse the force of impact, giving it a bit of ruggedness as well.

What we like

  • MagSafe-compatible
  • Rates high on aesthetics

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept!

The post Top 10 essential outdoor gear you need on your 2023 camping adventures first appeared on Yanko Design.

Hanging Retreat suspended in the middle of the mountains of Sharjah is overwhelmingly picturesque and delightfully comforting

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Hanging in mid-air between two mountain ridges is scary; there are no two ways about it. However, if the idea is not threatening, but rather adventurous to you; Dubai-based Ardh Architects have created a city of hanging pods in the mountains of Sharjah you can explore in all sanity.

You may have heard about glamping on the rock face or maybe seen the cliff-hanging glass hotel? Spending a night, hanging from a cliff a few hundred feet from the ground, is an experience only for the rock climbers to avail.

Designer: Ardh Architect

So, what if you’re a casual traveler who wants to stay and experience dangling from a cliff? The Hanging Retreat is your destination to live amid nature, suspending mid-air between two mountains of Sharjah.

Each hanging pod at the Hanging Retreat has a see-through triangular design (which suspends from a bridge connecting the top of two mountains overlooking a common valley) and comes pre-equipped with all essential amenities. This provides a luxurious experience in a remote location, unparalleled by any means. Away from the city life – deep in the middle of the mountains – this serene and tranquil property is developed by Ardh in collaboration with Sharjah’s Investment and Development Authority, Shurooq.

From within the see-through walls (and ceiling) of the hanging pods at this Sharjah retreat, there is just so much to see happening outside. To make certain this abundance of nature is not a distraction, Hanging Retreat puts you up and personal with the natural beauty of the region. The management can organize trekking and cycling tours or local interactions to raise environmental awareness and to help guests learn about the heritage and culture of Sharjah’s mountains.

If you have dreamt of going out for a unique experience that you’ll never forget; a trip to the Hanging Retreat can make for that extreme adventure with friends or family. And when you head forth for the overwhelmingly picturesque getaway, do not forget to carry your camera!

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Imitating an Edison bulb, this flashlight radiates warm glow that’s subtle on the eye and super-helpful in the outdoor

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Interior designers are swaying heavily in favor of warm lights. The inclination coupled with a desire for the retro has stirred the renascence of the Edison bulb. Foremost on every designer’s list to warm up an interior atmosphere, the bulb radiates a glow that’s subtle on the eye and shines with brilliance.

A staple in the restaurant and home design, the Edison bulb’s ambiance is now trickling down for the love of everyday carry aficionados in the form of an Edison Light Stick from Barebones. Selling through Huckberry, this is a multifunctional flashlight, which according to the product listing is “inspired by vintage lantern.”

Designer: Barebones

Click Here to Buy Now!

Yes, there is a hint of resemblance to the lantern, but this flashlight/lamp actually gets its name from the wire filament-esque LED strip that coils around its spine. This gives the Edison Light Stick a distinct look and a warm glow that the outdoorsy would fancy in their gatherings.

Potentially a “super-helpful” device in case of emergency, the Edison Light Stick is a companion far and above the ordinary. The handy flashlight casts a warm LED ambient light and also works as a direct light for tasks like preparing food or fetching water.

Multifunctional in nature, the lantern-inspired light glows warm to instantly uplift the mood in the camp or doubles as a reading light for those who still flutter through the white sheets inked in black. The glass tube body of the Edison Light Stick features brass and copper construction top and bottom, while leather accents complete its handsome look.

Available in two colors for $75, the petit light stick is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery chargeable via a wall outlet. On the go, it can be recharged using USB-C tethered to a secondary device. It comes with seven different light modes so you can have your ideal ambiance anytime, anywhere.

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Expansion tent concept brings better habitability and improved durability

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If you go camping regularly, sometimes during different seasons and with different people, you probably have different kinds of tents that will suit the environment and the company. But what if you could have just one tent which you can adjust and change the shape to suit your needs and the number of people that can stay inside? Of course you would want to have that one instead of having several at your disposal (unless you plan to collect different kinds of tents of course).

Designer: Yeonguk Choi

The 2/3 home is a concept for a backpacking tent that can be expanded, folded, and changed depending on what you need, what season it is, and how many people will be staying inside. It’s a combination of tunnel-type tents and alpine tents but with supposedly much easier ways to assemble, pack, store. The designers experimented with different kinds of materials and types of tents until they were able to find and develop a concept that can hopefully become an actual multi-functional tent.

Using woodwork and nylon 15D fabric in the trial and error phase, they were able to come up with something that works using 20D fabric and Monolite lip-stop nylon mesh for the ventilation part. They also used various plastic subsidiary materials for the other parts and DAC press fit 8.7mm for its tent pole. Basically, the final product is “a backpacking tent that expands with you”. The Duo Mode, as its name states, is meant for two people with an alpine tent model while the Trio Mode is the expansion mode that can accommodate three people.

The Duo Mode is compact, easily installed with its one main pole and two ridge poles. Aside from its small size, it’s also built to withstand some strong weather conditions including strong winds with its bow-like bent tent. It’s also more “livable” than the normal alpine tent since the interior has a hexagonal shape. The Trio Mode is where you can add a separate tent extension to connect to the duo mode. Aside from being able to fit in three people, it’s more habitable because you get more space and is recommended for use during winter.

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CAMP with Alpha Rex off-roading electric SUV at heart is the ultimate campsite we’d want

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California-based electric vehicle start-up Alpha Motor Corporation has (since its inception in 2020) showcased a slew of slick-looking renders for the world crowded with adventure seekers. The latest addition is an integrated setup for the Overlanding and camping experience the company calls Collaborative Adventure Mobility Platform (CAMP).

The setup you see appears incredibly devised for the outdoorsy and many wouldn’t think twice before divulging their interest in it. But if you’re an inquisitive one; you will take heart in the fact that the CAMP setup is based on the company’s highly modified version of the Alpha Rex off-roading vehicle, which has a teardrop trailer in tow to facilitate a home-like experience in the great outdoors.

Designer: Alpha Motor Corporation

The retro-futuristic site in itself; the CAMP is a modified setup for a complete motorhome experience. The back of the SUV has been removed to create space for a triangular bed bar. The Rex’s roof has a carrier while the teardrop has a pop-up rooftop tent. The Rex itself is powered by a dual-motor powertrain, and has a range of up to 275 miles.

The off-roader’s capability as a camper is diversified by the various features provided along with. Some of these viable ones include the grille set, a foldable camping dining set, and a yurt with textile walls matching the rooftop tent which houses a king-size platform bed. CAMP setup for now is a special collaborative project, available only in rentals. Alpha Motors Corporation has no intentions of marketing the perfected version of this computer-generated vision of an effective, all-in-one campsite.

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The Krapp Strapp: Pooping in the Woods Made Easy

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Because nature calls, the Krapp Strapp is a device that attaches to a tree (or tow hitch) so you can lean back and poop in the woods with ease. No more hugging trees or falling over trying to squat. The strap features a padded backrest for leaning against, as well as side pocket storage for toilet paper or some casual reading material to peruse while taking care of your business.

Personally, I’ve never had any trouble going to the bathroom in the woods because I’m the outdoorsy type. Sure, I’ve accidentally wiped with poison ivy on more than one occasion, but that’s what our ancestors did, too, provided our ancestors spent the rest of their camping trip lying face-down in a tent wishing the world would just end already.

Hey, whatever makes pooping easier. Just look at how many people bought that Squatty Potty footstool. Now I’m not sure who needs to read this, but the Krapp Strapp is for outdoor use only and should NOT be attached to a towel bar so you can poop in the shower. Don’t do it.

[via SadAndUseless]

Essential camping accessories that every outdoorsman needs

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After a tiring week at work, with the weekend joyfully looming ahead of me, I often find myself fantasizing about a short sweet getaway! Just a few days away from my hectic life, and this hectic world, in a bubble of my own, where all my worries are nowhere to be seen. And with the summer season setting in, I’m definitely in the mood to soak up some sun; and, camping could be a great outdoor activity. Although camping does have a few downsides too – I mean, you have to get down and dirty, live life on the road, and tackle the moodiness of the elements. In such a scenario, having a set of trustworthy and handy camping products can make a world of difference! Having the right products by your side can make your life much easier during those crucial moments. From a portable power station to a camping chair that doubles up as a carrying tool – we’ve curated some fun and functional camping designs for you. Enjoy!

1. The LIPOWER Mars-2000

Meet the LIPOWER Mars-2000, a beer-cooler-sized power station that gives you up to 2000W of power no matter where you are. Whether you’re camping outdoors, spending a cool evening at the beach, going on a road trip, or even taking your camera and drone on a day-long expedition for work or casual photoshoots, the LIPOWER Mars-2000 is a pretty capable portable power source that’s equipped with EV-grade LFP batteries for sustained power no matter what your requirement.

Why is it noteworthy?

The 1460Wh power station weighs 35.5 lbs (16.1 kilograms) and comes with built-in handles that let you load it on the back of a car and carry it pretty much anywhere you want. The LIPOWER Mars-2000 offers 10 different ports to charge/power a whole slew of devices, including 3 110V AC ports, 3 12V DC ports (including one car outlet), 3 USB-A ports (including one USB3.0 port for fast charging), and one USB-C port that outputs 60W, making it perfect for phones, tablets, and even laptops.

What we like

  • There’s also an input for plugging solar panels into the LIPOWER Mars-2000, charging it via solar energy up to 80% in 5 hours, according to its makers, LIPOWER

What we dislike

  • It is a bit bulky to be carrying around in the outdoors

2. The Chair – A

The Chair – A can be “half folded” into a form that almost resembles a “jigae” or a traditional Korean carrying tool. It is practically a frame that lets you load more things on your back without having to cram them into your backpack or have them dangling precariously from bags.

Why is it noteworthy?

This kind of tool has been used to easily transport loads of firewood, and its design hasn’t really changed at all in the past centuries. This chair, however, applies an A-frame design that makes the carrier look a bit more aesthetic while also providing more stability.

What we like

  • It folds completely flat so that it can be conveniently stored in cramped spaces
  • The arms do help shift the weight a bit to prevent strain and injury

What we dislike

  • Not very comfortable because of the fabric seat
  • Absence of a backrest

3. The Lava Box

The Lava Box is a concept for a portable stove that looks minimalist, classy, and not at all like the usual that you see being carried around in campsites and beaches. In fact, you might think it’s a vinyl player or a projector, or a luxury box. They’re actually some of the design inspirations for this stove or rather the mood board used in coming up with the final look. What you get is a box with a cover and when you open it, that’s where the stove shows itself.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s a single burner with a refillable butane gas container fitting right under it. There’s a wooden know on the right that lets you adjust the flame level for things like when you’re heating water, frying something, or grilling pieces of meat. There are also wooden handles on the side for when you need to move the stove when it’s in use or has recently been used and you don’t want to burn your fingers.

What we like

  • Small enough to carry with you on your outdoor trip
  • Inspired by a vinyl player

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept!

4. The EcoFlow River 2

As with any second-generation product, the EcoFlow River 2 has been able to learn from the lessons of its predecessors. Given the gap between the first and second EcoFlow Rivers, there has definitely been plenty of lessons to serve as the foundations of a better product. Fortunately, EcoFlow did seem to have benefited from hindsight, allowing it to turn the River 2 into a sleeker and more compact power station that no longer looks like a car battery.

Why is it noteworthy?

The biggest change you will notice comparing the two generations is that the River 2 has a more refined appearance thanks to its dual-tone color scheme and flat top. The large carrying handle no longer arcs over the top but instead juts out from the back. That makes it easier to stash the power station away in cramped spaces and put things on top of it. Having the handle extend to one side only also reduces the space it needs to occupy. This helps give the box a cleaner look, but relocating the carrying handle does have its share of consequences as well.

What we like

  • It will take more than 3,000 charging cycles (zero to full) before it starts to lose its full capacity

What we dislike

  • No wireless charging
  • Carrying the EcoFlow River 2, however, might be difficult for some other purpose. With the carrying handle now at the back, the box’s center of gravity is changed when you lift it up

5. The Batch #003: PARTS multipurpose tool

Outdoorsy enthusiasts swear by the Leatherman knifes for their durability and the ability to stay sharp for a lifetime. Their latest experimental creation is the Batch #003: PARTS multipurpose tool with its unique set of features. A folding knife at heart, the multitool ventures into the world of interchangeable blade options for an EDC.

Why is it noteworthy?

According to Leatherman, their motive is to create the best folding knife out there from the current inventory of products in-house. The result, is a multipurpose tool crafted out of 26 parts. It gets an innovative interchangeable blade system to swap compatible blades for the needed task at hand. All this while being ergonomically comfortable and highly functional to the last bit. The EDC gets the G10 handle for a better grip.

What we like

  • The knife can be swapped between the premium S30V stainless steel work blade for hardcore tasks or the 154CM blade tailored for normal household tasks

What we dislike

  • Hefty price tag

6. Air Architecture’s Tent

This inflatable tent is designed after a “classic” house, meaning those that you drew on paper whenever you’re asked to draw a house. The simple design with the triangular roof and the rectangular body matches the white color of the structure and it can fit anywhere you want to bring a house.

Why is it noteworthy?

It has an airframe with a TPU pipe with a diameter of 120mm, and a thickness of 0.3mm, and is covered with 210D Oxford polyester. Because it has a polyurethane coating on the fabric and seams, this can be used during any weather conditions including rainy weather. The polyester fabric also makes this fire-resistant, waterproof, and more importantly, maintains the sharp form needed to keep it up.

What we like

  • When you open the windows, you get to be one with nature, whether you’re in a forest, at the beach, or wherever you’re setting it up for your camping trip

What we dislike

  • Unsure whether it can withstand extreme weather conditions

7. The Tomori Lantern Kit

Designer Yuji Yanagisawa envisioned the Tomori Lantern Kit. Rather than providing a ready-made lantern, Tomori is actually a kit that lets you quickly set up a lantern and then quickly put it away when you no longer need it. The best parts about this lantern kit are that it takes up almost no space when collapsed and can also use any conventional flashlight that can fit inside its clamps.

Why is it noteworthy?

The base of the kit is a foldable cardboard piece that serves as the flashlight holder and stable structure of the lamp. The kit comes with a rather nondescript LED flashlight that you can use on its own when not docked inside the lantern. In fact, the cardboard base can hold any cylindrical flashlight that is less than 30mm in diameter and 160mm in length. This means that you can use the same flashlight for the lantern as well as for typical uses, or you can have a set of backup flashlights when one’s battery goes empty.

What we like

  • The entire kit, excluding the flashlight, folds down to a flat A4-sized package, perfect for stashing in bags or drawers, ready for use in an emergency

What we dislike

  • Cannot withstand rain

8. SHARGE

Portable power generators have become en vogue because of that new outdoor lifestyle, but if you need something more portable and more stylish, this SHARGE concept is something you’d wish was an actual product already.

Why is it noteworthy?

If you’re a camping fan, for example, you might want something that doesn’t exactly look like rugged tanks but at least has ties to your favorite hobby. It’s not by coincidence, then, that the SHARGE was designed to mimic the ridges you’d find on camping boxes. While the design is already visually appealing in itself, the structure also helps diffuse the force of impact, giving it a bit of ruggedness as well.

What we like

  • MagSafe-compatible

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept!

9. The Suitcase

Presenting a definite alternative – which is both portable and trendy – Korean designer Hyeonseok Kang has conceptualized ‘The Suitcase’; a TV in a suitcase, that simple!

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s not a TV packed into a suitcase, in fact, it is a flexible display that can fold back into a suitcase for carrying in the boot of your car. It is not like the traditional camping TV with a portable stand, The Suitcase is a display with a combined stand and TV.

What we like

  • The flexible display has a two-axis hinge running in the middle, which allows the TV screen to be freely adjusted at any angle and be folded and unfolded easily
  • The TV is packed with a USB Type-C, 3 USB A, and a pair of HDMI ports to ensure unhindered amusement while camping

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

10. Viuu Bottle Opener

Bottle openers are probably the only EDCs to have undergone the least amount of innovation – a handle and a head are what you usually get. But YUUE Design Studio decided to revamp the age-old bottle opener. This one looks almost like a decorative piece, but without compromising on any of the functionality. You can now get your drinks ready in a really unique + effective manner with the Viuu Bottle Opener.

Why is it noteworthy?

The design is inspired by window grill patterns, specifically those from classic Chinese architecture. There are three shapes featured: one hexagonal, one rectangular, and one with a semi-circular design. All of them have these patterns that may remind you of windows in old houses if you live in such a place influenced by this kind of architecture. While there are no handles to grip while opening a bottle, the grill design can help you with the grip problem.

What we like

  • Inspired by classic Chinese architecture

What we dislike

  • Seems more decorative than functional

The post Essential camping accessories that every outdoorsman needs first appeared on Yanko Design.

Portable sauna lets you enjoy heat in the cold wilderness

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When you’re going camping, you probably don’t expect to have all the comforts of a hotel or resort vacation. The idea is to rough it out in the middle of nature, unless what you prefer is to go glamping (glamorous camping in case you didn’t know). So if you want to add the joy of having a sauna when you’re outdoors, you’ll have to bring the sauna to you. Especially if you prefer to go camping in the cold weather, having a sauna with you is perfect and apparently, there is a portable one that you can now bring with you.

Designer: Sunga

Hoyry is a portable sauna tent that you can bring with you on your next camping trip and set it up wherever you want to. It is a pop-up structure that includes a wood-burning stove set just like your typical sauna. It’s not exactly something that you can pop up like a portable chair since there are several parts that you need to assemble but it is portable enough that you can bring it with you in the middle of the wilderness. It is big enough to let 3-4 adults use it at the same time and it has a heat retention capacity that can survive extremely cold conditions like that in Siberia.

The tent has dimensions of 2150×2150×2000 cm and 14.5kg while the stove is 250×650×460 big and 21kg heavy. The tent is made from 300D oxford fabric and has a 5-layer structure that is able to give it the thermal insulation that a sauna needs. It also has a maximum-size window for ventilation and an opening at the top so that the stove can blow the steam outside. The stove itself is made from stainless steel material and can support sauna stones of up to 16 kg.

The tent and the stove are both light enough to carry around and if you’re used to camping and putting up tents, then you should probably find it easy to set this up. The tent comes in two color variations, black or beige and white. Design-wise, it looks just like a usual tent except that you have a chimney sticking out for the ventilation of the stove. The stove works like any sauna with the stones that need to be “watered” to get it working.

The post Portable sauna lets you enjoy heat in the cold wilderness first appeared on Yanko Design.