In general there are two types of sleeping bags; down mummy bags and synthetic-fill sleeping bags. These are distinguised by the type of fiber that is used for the fill. The fill is the most important part of the sleeping bag. It’s what keeps all the heat inside. The fill should do a good job of trapping air, providing you protection from the cold outside air.

Down-filled Sleeping Bags

Down is the most efficient fill for mummy bags, warmth for weight, and traps air better than synthetic bags. This warmth for weight efficiency makes it ideal for mountaineering.

Down-filled Sleeping Bags compress better than any available synthetics and so packs down to a smaller size. When opened up, a down sleeping bags fluffs back to its open state very quickly and more completely. It also acts almost fluid like as it readily fills up the spaces of the sleeping bags.

Good quality down originates from China. The argument has been made in the past whether white goose down are better than gray goose down but there’s really not much difference.

Down filled sleeping bags are marked as 600-fill, 700-fill or 800-fill. This is called the fill power. Fill power is the number of cubic inches that one ounce of down will occupy.

The higher the number of fill power results in less amount of down required to fill the same space which makes the sleeping bag lighter. This is accomplished by using fluffier and longer-tendrilled down.

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) ordained standards for down content and fill power. By law, down must be at least 80 percent down i.e. cluster and fiber rather than quills, beaks, etc.

A good down sleeping bag will bounce back when you poke it with your finger. When properly taken care of, a down filled bag can last for a long time. One spirited hiker I personally know used his for more than 20 quite a while.

But down as a fill is not perfect. You need to avoid getting it wet or it will stop keeping you warm and it’s almost impossible to dry on the field.

Down is eye poppingly expensive and demands rather more care in maintenance. In some cases, rare as it is, may cause an allergic reaction.

Synthetic Fill Bags

Synthetic fills have been around for quite a while. They come in are distinguisedent name like Primaloft, Thermolite Extra, Hollofil I & II and more. The names change and the manufacturers will likely come up with more technologically advanced sounding names.

Synthetic fills are categorized into three forms. The fibers can be lubricated with silicon or other liquids to make them feel more silky, more like down.

Yet down is still the best fill for sleeping bags, synthetics are not far behind. One major advantage of using synthetics is that, unlike down, they still retain their insulating properties even when wet and they dry more readily.

And because synthetics are a lot cheaper than down and a further improvement will take down into extinction in sleeping bags and even apparel.

So you want to go on a hike in the woods but your not sure how to keep from injuring yourself, or worse, keep from being from eaten alive by those pesky ticks and mosquitoes. Well, considering the time of year, there are just some things you are just going to have to deal with, but don’t let those issues keep you from enjoying your hike. Here are some helpful tips to prepare you for your next journey through the woods of Southern Indiana.

(Insect Repellent) - No surprise here.

Mosquitoes, ever heard of them? Around here, they are big, they are mean, and they are plentiful. Not to mention, they are stealthy, stubborn and annoying. Everyone hates that ever familiar sound of a mosquito buzzing around your head, It conjures up feelings of anxiety and, in some cases, sheer terror. I have actually fled an area before, just to avoid being their lunch. Most wooded areas stay moist during the warm months, making them the perfect habitat to breed mosquitoes. The first thing you will need to do is find a repellent that is right for you. There are many varieties of Repellent on the market, the most popular and most effective one contains a chemical called DEET, but there are other types of natural ingredient based repellents also. One common misconception about bug spray is that it is being absorbed into your blood stream, and poisoning your body. Trust me; everything you touch on a daily basis has the potential to make you deadly ill. There are probably more bacteria in your kitchen sink that are more likely to cause you harm, then any bug spray will. When used as directed, bug spray is no more harmful than any other product we apply to our skin on any given day. You just have to use your head, read the instructions thoroughly, and take into consideration things like, the length of time you are going to be outdoors, the time of year, etc. My repellent of choice is Deep Woods Off, I tend to stay out longer and sometimes hike into the evening hours, when mosquitoes are at their worst. Other considerations to keep in mind are as follows:

* Apply repellent lightly, heavy coverage does not provide you any more protection.
* Wash your hands before eating
* Do not spray the product on your face, spray it on your hands and wipe it on your face, keeping it away from your eyes and mouth.
* Check recommended usage for children. Do not let them apply it to themselves; children have a tendency to stick their hands in their mouths.
* Do not exceed the recommended usage.
* Try to keep from applying repellent to areas of broken skin or areas that have a rash.

(Footwear) - These boots are made for walking.

In most cases, there are wide varieties of situations that will dictate what types of footwear you will need on your hike. If you are just going on small nature trail that has primarily smooth or flat trails, then wear what is comfortable for you. If you plan on hiking on rough, rocky or elevated trails, you might want to consider boots.

What type of boots you purchase is totally up to you, just make sure they fit before you get out on the trail and find out the hard way. One reason I prefer boots is the uneven terrain that I have come across over the years. They give me the support and traction I need when I am coming down a hillside, or hiking on a rocky trail. If you have ever hiked in the fall, then you know that the leaves can cover some of the rocks and mud, making conditions perfect for a sprained or broken ankle.

(Rain gear) - Predict the unpredictable

Weather in Southern Indiana can change faster than you can lace you boots. It is the most helpless feeling being out in the woods when a storm pops up, especially if your miles from anywhere. One thing I have with me at all times is a poncho. They sell small ones that will fit right in your pocket. You can usually pick up a pack of two for about a dollar. Trust me; it could very well be the best investment you make in this area. Some people do not like ponchos and prefer to use an umbrella. To each their own, if you wish use an umbrella, then go right ahead. A poncho can be very uncomfortable for some people and they are very hot if you have to wear them for long periods of time. Just make sure you have something with you just in case the weather turns on you. Never underestimate Mother Nature in the Midwest, it can be sunny one minute and hell on earth the next. It does not hurt to be prepared.

(Camera) - Look at the view from up here.

A camera is something I never go hiking without, it is the one tool I have with me at all times. Besides, you are going on a hike to enjoy the natural beauty of the wilderness, aren’t you?

One of my favorite times to hike is in mid April, when the wildflowers are in full bloom and the under story greenery is enjoying the sun before the canopy fills in. Second, only to spring is fall, you just cannot beat the burning colors in Brown County. Whether you enjoy the winter, spring, summer or fall, Southern Indiana provides some of the most majestic backdrops for even the amateur photographer.

(Water) - cool, crisp, refreshing.

It really does not matter how long your hike is when water is concerned. You just cannot survive without it. One thing that I have realized is, no trail is an easy walk. If your not used to hiking, you will be surprised how fast you can become dehydrated. Sometimes the stimulus in the woods can distract you. The natural beauty of things can keep your mind occupied for hours. One thing people do not realize is how far they can walk when they are not thinking about walking. That is why it is a good idea to have water handy, preferably in a refillable bottle. As soon as your mind catches up with your feet, you are going to enjoy that bottle of water as if it is the last one on earth.

(G.O.R.P) - Good old raisins and peanuts

If you are planning on going on a longer hike, you may want to consider taking some kind of snack. It does not have to be raisins and peanuts, if you like chocolate, take some with you. I recommend M&M’s because they do not melt all over the place. You can also take Beef Jerky, granola bars, energy bars or dried fruit.

The sky is the limit. Just remember, it is not for lunch, these types of snacks are designed to be high in protein, carbohydrates and sugar. Their main purpose is to sustain your energy level as you are hiking. I like to call it “hiking fuel”. The options are endless, you can make your own trail mixes at home, if you prefer, or you can usually pick up some ready-made treats at any grocery store. If you like dried fruits or beef jerky, then you may want to invest in a food dehydrator. I recently received one as a gift, and it is worth it weight in gold.

(Hiking Stick) - Staying grounded

Hiking sticks or hiking poles, what ever you want to call them, are one of greatest assets to have on a hike. They have proven themselves worthy many times over for me. One of the best things about them is they are plentiful. As your walking along the trail, you are sure to find a limb lying around that will serve as a nice hiking stick. Have an old broom or mop? They make great hiking sticks as well. Hiking sticks can be made from just about anything you can think of. If money is no object, you may want to pick up a real set at your local outdoors shop, which is fine as well. One advantage to store bought poles is there adjustability to any person’s height; they are collapsible and are extremely lightweight. Many people use them for many different tasks on the trail, they help keep you balanced when you are crossing a stream, or crossing uneven terrain. They also reduce the muscular impact on your legs, back and feet. They help me to keep low-lying branches out of my face, and if it is an early morning, I will use it to clear the spider webs that cover the trail. I even have an attachment for my camera so I can use my hiking pole as a tripod. No matter how you use them, they are a necessary tool on any hike, should you choose to use one or two poles is totally up to you. Some people hate to use two poles, other live by it.

Well, there you have it; you are now ready to enjoy yourself on your next hiking trip. I could go on forever, but I have to get out there and enjoy nature for myself.

Southern Indiana Trails

Tim Tanguay is a local trail enthusiast, who loves the outdoors. He runs a website called Southern Indiana Trails which is devoted to educating people about wildlife Conservation.

Learn how to be a good parent.

About the most absorbing aspects of any camping out trip is the opportunity to see wild animals in their natural surroundings. The purpose of federal and state parks is to preserve nature and creatures that are now threatened by modern life styles and urban sprawl. Camping is now the only way to see numerous species of wildlife and taking time to watch the creatures can be a fun part of your camping excursion.

Camping Spots

Before you leave for your trip you’ll want to do some study, you will need to know what type of creatures are going to be in the area that you’re camping. Check that you are aware of what animals may cause danger to you or your family and carry a firearm if it is allowed in the place where you will be camping. All it takes to scare away any unforeseen animal guests is a couple of shots in to the air.

Camping Guides

Learn about the creatures that you expect to see, and teach your youngsters about the possible dangers of the animals in the location. By bringing binoculars with you you can take advantage of the educational aspects of a camping out trip as well its pleasurable aspects. If you are well prepared, camping out is a great opportunity to animals in their natural habitat.

All About Camping

So your camping out vacation has begun. Now it’s time to review the notes you made while planning your trip. Map out when the best times and sports are to see creatures in your place. When the weather condition is at its coolest, animals can be located easily near water sources as they will come to get their drinking water. It can be hazardous to approach creatures in the wild; it is better to view them through field glasses When camping out, try to leave only footprints, and take only photos - try to have as little impact on nature as possible, and not to interfere with the animals. While camping out, the rule is to not feed any wild animals. Injured animals should never be approached but you should tell a park ranger about them and he will know what to do.

When it comes to viewing creatures, patience is the supreme virtue. You must keep very still. If you take kids with you camping, be sure to let them know that should be quiet upon given orders by you so that animals will come out and emerge. Be sure that youngsters know that they cannot play with or pet the animals.

Nature is full of many wonderful things and camping is all about experiencing them. Children will find it exciting to see rabbits or deers for the first time in their life. It’s even more fun to search out beavers, porcupines, and other less seen animals while camping out. If you take the required safeguards and stay safe and patient, then animal watching on your camping out trip would be a great experience for you.

If you have ever gone camping with the wrong type of clothing, then you already know what a disaster it can be.

The type of camping equipment you bring is critical for your overall experience in the woods. So camping while wearing your regular street clothes and assuming it will be enough to keep you warm or dry will quickly change your mind.

Clothes you wear every day just aren’t sufficient to keep you comfortable and protect you from the elements you normally face when camping.

The Details Behind the Clothes

The technology in camping clothes is very sophisticated compared to many years ago. There are many aspects to camping clothes that really do help when you are outside for a large portion of the day, and are made specifically for that type of environment.

The materials themselves are advanced now, with most allowing water from natural elements, as well as sweat, to escape without entering the fabric. This is a great help for the inevitable rain that comes during some of your camping adventures. If you wind up soaked, you’ll wish you had brought an RV instead of setting up camp.

Keeping the Water Out

Moisture is generally one of the biggest problems campers face, making them uncomfortable and cold at night. The newer material - such as laminates and coatings made of micro porous fabrics - keeps this moisture out to keep you warm and dry.

Monolithic membranes also help the water escape while preventing any additional moisture from entering the clothing. It uses body heat that you naturally generate to get rid of water vapor. So even as you are hard at work, the sweat you have will dissipate because of your natural heat.

The Type of Material Matters

Another option for clothing material is between nylon and polyester. Both are very popular with campers, with newer polyester material usage growing rapidly along with other standard camping apparel.

Both provide durability and are very “breathable” material, but polyester keeps you warmer. It really depends which time of the year you decide to go camping as to which one you would likely prefer.

Down filled materials that seem to be very popular with campers are not as efficient an option as the newer materials. Although they keep you very warm, wetness that seeps in will remain for a very long time.

Comfort is a Priority

You are best served by synthetic clothes that provide just as much warmth and are capable of drying more quickly than down.

When you head out for a camping trip, it is important for the enjoyment of your trip to be comfortable. There is little worse than spending a few miserable days outside.

So, the next time you plan your camping trip, take time to look for clothes that are specifically geared to camping so that you are able to remain comfortable, warm, and dry.