Columbia Bugaboo Four to Five-Person Family Dome Tent

Take the family camping in style - and protection from the elements - with the Columbia CB-5300 Bugaboo dome-style tent, which fits four to five people. It provides a heady 74-inch center height and features a 1200 millimeter double-coated fly, sealed seams, and a polyethylene tub floor. The reflective zipper pulls make it easy to get in and out of the tent - even in the dark. It comes with a remote-controlled light (with a 65-foot reach) that attaches easily for exceptional nighttime security and visibility.

The Clean Sweep zippered floor flap makes it easy to sweep out debris. The two storage foot lockers are accessible from outside and inside the tent so you can easily store your gear out of the way. Other features include a quick-release buckle system, two hanging cup holders, and a removable door mat.

The Bugaboo's skylights offer large areas of mesh for maximum airflow and awe-inspiring views of the night sky. In addition, the rainfly has clear panels with zippered covers that offer you the option of having night views or no morning sun in your face. The Bugaboo's venting system creates a vortex that flushes hot air up through the roof, providing fresh air all night long. For maximum climate control, open or close the lower vents to feel the cool night breeze or keep warm air in.

The CB-5300 features the GoBe Dry Ultimate Rain Protection System, which combines patent pending fabric, component, and seam technology that culminates in exceptional protection from the elements, in particular rain, in any and all terrain. The DryTek Fabric repels moisture with a protective coating. The DryFloor Tub design elevates the floor seams to keep away water, while the DryGuard Skirt deflects rain from the floor seams and stake loops.

Specifications:

• Base Size: 12 x 9 feet
• Center Height: 74 inches
• Poles: 4 x 9.5 millimeter fiberglass poles
• Weight: 21 pounds
• Sleeps: 4 to 5

About Columbia Sportswear
Founded in 1938, Columbia Sportswear Company has grown from a small family-owned hat distributor to one of the world's largest outerwear brands and the leading seller of ski-wear in the United States. Columbia's extensive product line includes a wide variety of outerwear, sportswear, rugged footwear and accessories. Columbia specializes in developing innovative products that are functional yet stylish and offer great value. Eighty-year-old matriarch Gert Boyle, Chairman of the Board, and her son, Tim Boyle, President and CEO, lead the company.

Columbia's history starts with Gert's parents, Paul and Marie Lamfrom, when they fled Germany in 1937. They bought a small hat distributorship in Portland, Oregon, and named it Columbia Hat Company, after the river bordering the city. Soon frustrated by poor deliveries from suppliers, the Lamfroms decided to start manufacturing products themselves. In 1948, Gert married college sweetheart Neal Boyle, who joined the family business and later took the helm of the growing company. When Neal suddenly died of a heart attack in 1970, Gert enlisted help from Tim, then a college senior. After that, it wasn't long before business really started to take off. Columbia was one of the first companies to make jackets from waterproof/breathable fabric. They introduced the breakthrough technology called the Columbia Interchange System, in which a shell and liner combine for multiple wearing options. In the early 1980s, then 60-year-old Gert began her role as "Mother Boyle" in Columbia's successful and popular advertising campaign.

The company went public in 1998 and moved into a new era as a world leader in the active outdoor apparel industry. Today, Columbia Sportswear employs more than 1,800 people around the world and distributes and sells products in more than 50 countries and to more than 12,000 retailers internationally.

What's in the Box?
Bugaboo dome tent, fiberglass poles, remote-controlled light, door mat, carry bag with handle

Manufacturer's Warranty
Lifetime warranty

Amazon.com Tent Guide
Selecting a Tent
Fortunately, there are all kinds of tents for weekend car campers, Everest expeditions, and everything in-between. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Expect the Worst
In general, it's wise to choose a tent that's designed to withstand the worst possible conditions you think you'll face. For instance, if you're a summer car camper in a region where weather is predictable, an inexpensive family or all purpose tent will likely do the trick--especially if a vehicle is nearby and you can make a mad dash for safety when bad weather swoops in! If you're a backpacker, alpine climber or bike explorer, or if you like to car camp in all seasons, you'll want to take something designed to handle more adversity.

Three- and Four-Season Tents
For summer, early fall and late spring outings, choose a three-season tent. At minimum, a quality three season tent will have lightweight aluminum poles, a reinforced floor, durable stitching, and a quality rain-fly. Some three-season tents offer more open-air netting and are more specifically designed for summer backpacking and other activities. Many premium tents will feature pre-sealed, taped seams and a silicone-impregnated rain-fly for enhanced waterproofness.

For winter camping or alpine travel, go with a four season model. Because they typically feature more durable fabric coatings, as well as more poles, four-season tents are designed to handle heavy snowfall and high winds without collapsing. Of course, four-season tents exact a weight penalty of about 10 to 20 percent in trade for their strength and durability. They also tend to be more expensive.

Domes and Tunnels
Tents are broadly categorized into two types, freestanding, which can stand up on their own, and those that must be staked down in order to stand upright. Freestanding tents often incorporate a dome-shaped design, and most four-season tents are constructed this way because a dome leaves no flat spots on the outer surface where snow can collect. Domes are also inherently stronger than any other design. Meanwhile, many three-season models employ a modified dome configuration called a tunnel. These are still freestanding, but they require fewer poles than a dome, use less fabric, and typically have a rectangular floor-plan that offers less storage space than a dome configuration. Many one and two-person tents are not freestanding, but they make up for it by being more lightweight. Because they use fewer poles, they can also be quicker to set up than a dome.

Size Matters
Ask yourself how many people you'd like to fit in your fabric hotel now and in the future. For soloists and minimalists, check out one-person tents. If you're a mega-minimalist, or if you have your eye on doing some big wall climbs, a waterproof-breathable bivy sack is the ticket. Some bivy sacks feature poles and stake points to give you a little more breathing room. Also, if you don't need bug protection and you want to save weight, check out open-air shelters.

Families who plan on car camping in good weather can choose from a wide range of jumbo-sized tents that will accommodate all your little ones with room to spare. A wide range of capacities is also available for three- and four-season backpacking and expedition tents. Remember, though, the bigger the tent you buy, the heavier it will be, although it's easy to break up the tent components among several people in your group. It's also helpful to compare the volume and floor-space measurements of models you're considering.

Customer Review: Finally, the right sized tent!
This is truely a great tent. Love the center height and the ability to stand up and get changed. We use this with a queen sized bed, a folding chair and plenty of extra room for the suitcase and odds and ends. We have used the buddy tent heater many times with this tent and it is just a great all around Mom and Dad tent. We recently purchased another on sale...just in case. For anyone tempted to Cpap while camping...this is the tent for you. The battery is easily accessable using the small access doors. As far as leaking concerns...this tent is great. We also pitch one of those folding 10X10s from Walmart and we say nice and dry.
Customer Review: Great "car camping" tent
This is the first tent I have owned where I haven't had to do extensive aftermarket waterproofing. Actually, I have done no aftermarket waterproofing on this tent, because it just didn't need it. For the money and size, this is an excellent tent for people car camping. I wouldn't want to carry it too far from the car, as it's unwieldy and heavy, but I didn't buy this for frontier wilderness camping so it serves my purposes well. Nice things about this tent: - Easy to put together. My first trip out with this tent, I was the only one with any prior experience, but with the help of one other person we got this up in less than 15 minutes with a strong wind blowing. I consulted the directions when things weren't intuitive, and they were simple and easy to understand. If you've put many tents together in the past, you can probably skip the directions. - It is spacious. It fits four adults comfortably with ample room for a small cooler, packs, and a dozen board games. Make sure you've pulled all corners completely out or you'll lose space - if it is put together properly you can fit six women in this tent, as long as you don't mind close quarters and leave the majority of items in the car. - It's very well-ventilated. That first camping trip was October in New England and it stormed most of the weekend. We could open the windows even though it was raining outside and not worry about water coming inside. - Waterproof. There are a few places that water can get in, but the tent itself is more waterproof than any tent I've owned in the past. Be careful of the small zippered slot on the front left of the tent - it's convenient to put the cord for inflatable air mattresses through, but if you do not close it back properly you will find a small amount of water might leak inside (about ½ a cup overnight). You don't need to put a tarp under the tent, the bottom is completely waterproof. - It comes with a light and remote, but we played so many board games we ended up hanging a lantern from the ceiling with no problem. - Height - I hate bending over, and my back hates it more. You can stand up straight in this tent. Keep in mind it is a dome tent though, so it slopes towards the sides. - Pockets - great for putting things you need to keep handy. Things I would change about this tent: - Stakes. These were not the greatest, especially in the wind with a sandy/rocky ground below the tent. I plan on replacing some with more heavy-duty stakes. - Dividers/attic - I discarded these, they are not something I would ever use, and I didn't see how to put them up. - Floor mat - it hooked to the tent, but I think it would be more useful if it were just attached along one edge. Overall, this is a great tent and my friends and I have a lot of fun camping with it.

If you are looking to buy branded camping gear especially tents, ovens, boots, backpacks etc., be prepared to pay a hefty price for it. You can get these branded equipments at many stores, for an expensive price. If you do not want to burn a hole in your pocket while purchasing camping gear, you have the choice between buying cheap and less durable equipment or buying outlet camping gear that is discounted, still very classy and reliable.

You can buy outlet camping gear from many outlet stores across the country. You can get quality branded camping equipment and that too at discounted prices at such outlet stores. Most of these stores sell overstocked sporting goods as well as camping gear, but you also have to be very careful while buying outlet camping gear, as some of the equipment at these outlets may be faulty or irregular.

Buying your camping equipment from outlet stores for a good price is only a prelude to a great camping trip. Preparation is the reason for success of your trip.

At the campground, you must take care to choose a level area that is shaded and has good drainage. The biggest mistake people usually make is when they choose the campsite in a low-lying area, especially if rain is predicted. Also, choosing a campsite near the restrooms will be an added advantage for you. You must clearly demarcate the areas for various activities at your campsite, for example, the areas for sleeping, cooking, eating and other activities. Your camping trip will become much more efficient this way.

You must take care while buying your camping gear to ensure that you are purchasing the correct gear. Make sure that you buy a waterproof tent. You can save time at your campsite if you assemble your tent in the backyard, before leaving for your camping trip. You must also take along a tarp to put over your tent, to protect you from rain and also take a ground cloth with you. A waterproof sleeping bag that is warm as well as that can be easily stored is ideal for your camping trip.

You can take tips from your friends, gather information over the Internet and make a complete checklist of things to take and games and activities to undertake at the camp. Armed with this information, and the right equipment, you can really make the most of your camping trip.

Abhishek is a Camping freak! Visit his website http://www.Camping-Guru.com and download his FREE Camping Report "Camping With The Family: How To Have A Safe, Fun, And Inexpensive Vacation" and learn some amazing Camping tips and tricks for FREE. Learn how to have the perfect vacation on a shoe-string budget. But hurry, only limited Free copies available! http://www.Camping-Guru.com

Adventure Playzone

Customer Review: Toddler's Paradise
I purchased this for my 18 month old nephew & he absolutly loves it!!! He plays in it daily. He is full of energy & this is one of the greatest items for those cold winter or rainy spring days when you can't get outside to exercise!!! It is easy to set up and take down & wonderful on space when you want to pack it up to go to Grandma's or even a hotel. It's lightweight & colorful and you must get one for your energetic little one!
Customer Review: Great toy, not expensive!
Great toy, I just bought it, it is long, fun, not dificult to set up, there is not much to set up really, comes ready!, my baby likes it very much, great toy for a great price!!

One of the greatest scenic drives in North America is California's Highway 1. It is a stretch of road that winds it's way right along the coast and right up against the mountains from Cambria (between LA and SF) and Carmel, almost at the Oregon border. It works its way through Big Sur, San Francisco, and some of the most beautiful coastline driving you'll ever see.

One word of warning though - Highway 1 is a slow, scenic drive, not one to make miles on. It's a route for drivers who want to take in the scenery and are in no hurry to get to their destination, which means it's perfect for motor home drivers.

It also has some twisty-turny spots and an occasional cruise by a sheer cliff. Take it slow and enjoy the view, but not so much that you end up driving off the side of a cliff!

Another word of warning - there aren't many places to stop. For most motor home drivers, who keep themselves stocked up on everything at all times, it may not be such a concern. But you should bring everything you'll need for at least the next 90 miles or so, and make sure you're gas tank is plenty full.

Big Sur

Big Sur alone makes the CA 1 drive worth your while. It has some of the most beautiful beaches on all of the west coast. One of the most famous beaches is Pfeiffer Beach, known for its wild rock formations and unique purple sand. The big, sandy beaches at Big Sur are great fun for families and ocean lovers.

There is also a famous lighthouse at Big Sur called Point Sur Lighthouse. It was known for being one of the loneliest spots on the coast, and now they run tours through it.

Big Sur was also a getaway for artistic and literary types. Writers like Jack Kerouac, John Steinbeck and Henry Miller made Big Sur their homes.

Where to stay in Big Sur depends on what part of it you want to enjoy with your motor home. Do you want to be overlooking the ocean, or nestled in a forest of giant trees?

There are lots of campgrounds with RV hookups, but probably the most popular are Kirk Creek and Limestone State Park. These are both regular campgrounds with motor home sites as well as tent sites. Kirk Creek is the best on the ocean side, and Limestone is the best for those who want to be deep in the woods.

Monterey

North of Big Sur, at Point Lobos, there are rocks where you can usually see sea lions sunbathing. This is a great place to stop and get pictures, and they'll let you get pretty close.

As you go further north, you will come to Monterey. This was the old capital of Spanish California, and it is also known for its scenic beaches. It's tough to convey the beauty of Monterey without seeing it first, but to give you an idea, it's been often called the most beautiful meeting of land, sea and sky in the world.

For the best motor home stay, Monterey Vacation RV Park is a good choice. It's nice and close to everything you want to do, including San Juan Bautista State Park and Muertos Canyon. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, so if you're looking for things to do, you can park your motor home there and use them as your one-stop tour guides.

The Forests Up North

After Monterey, you start to get into pretty, forested country. Here you can stop and take short hikes and admire the sea from the top of a small mountain peak. Up here, you aren't far from the California redwoods. These forests are known for their pretty array of colors, especially during the summer and fall months.

The drive along the coast of northern California is also full of small towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, that make nice stops for sightseeing. These little towns are quaint and full of interesting history.

For those who love to drive, the trip along California Highway 1 can't be beat. You've got the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other. Some hardier drivers like to go up and then down again, so they get to enjoy both sides of it. Whichever way you choose to go, it's a wonderful drive for motor homes. It is a great way to see all that both southern and northern California have to offer.

Nothing is greater than taking in the scenery from inside your motor home. Beaches to mountains to forests, you can travel in comfort. Visit Bankston Motor Homes, http://www.bankstonmotorhomes.com/, to search for your next motor home or come by and visit with us at any of our five locations.

LitterMaid LMT200 Kitty Kabana Universal Privacy Tent

Customer Review: jim
My cat is afraid of it I've had it for over a month now. I tried removing her old one and she started to re leave herself in the bathroom rug,since them I've had both the new litter box and old and she still does not use it!!!! not very satisfied
Customer Review: It's not about privacy
The reason it's NOT about privacy is -if your cat (like ours) decides to leave the Litter Maid by going from the middle of the box off the side of the box, litter gets onto the floor...this thing keeps the cat headed in the right direction to avoid excess mess. Assuming of course, that you've placed the carpet or mat in front of/under the box exit ramp...

The natural beauty and scenic climes offered at Yosemite National Park compel many tourists to visit it by daytime, but making your Yosemite camping reservations in time will work to ensure you have a head-start on the madding crowds that can gather on a good day, some of whom only come on a day-trip.

To avoid the excessive traffic and to get a good view of the magnificent mountains at Yosemite camping, reservations is the way to go and also cut-back on any disappointment at not getting the perfect camping spot if staying over for the night. If you intend to make only a day-trip, then making Yosemite camping reservations is not necessary

You may have to remember thought that whether or not you intend to stay for the day or over-night camping at Yosemite, the entrance fees are applicable to you as a visitor; these are $20 for private cars or trucks and a license to come and go as you please for a full week! Those footing, biking or riding (horse-back) it to Yosemite will find this entrance pass at a discounted price of $10 per person while frequent visitors (coming many times in the year), senior citizens and disabled persons have discounted entrance passes available for them - you may need to enquire at the park to know about these.

You may find yourself spoilt for choice when making Yosemite camping reservations as there are over a dozen campgrounds to choose from there and all can be very competitive during different times in the year. For example, the Yosemite camping reservations for availing car campgrounds is open all year through in Yosemite Valley while Hodgdon Meadow, Crane Flat or Wawona camp sites can be made from summer season right through Fall. Besides these, about half the camping grounds at Tuolumne Meadows ask for reservations from Summer to Fall with the other Yosemite campgrounds operating on a first-come, first-serve basis purely.

Those keen on making their Yosemite camping reservations need to go through the National Park Reservation System, which is a little daunting for some and even with its 4 month in advance booking convenience, can be bothersome since it works on a strict schedule, beginning always on the 15th of the month, depending mostly on when you intend to make your arrival on the mountain scene.

You can book up to a period of 30 days, which is welcome but this - booking starting mid-month - can be confusing to say the least. For instance, if you want to visit Yosemite from December 15th to January 14th, August 15th is the first day you can make your reservations and if intending to visit between 15th January to 14th Feb, you need to book on 15th September and the list goes on. The summer to Fall season is most popular with all-full signs meeting you square in the face as reservations get picked up within hours of the first day, though you can strike lucky when checking back for cancellations.

Abhishek is a Camping freak! Visit his website http://www.Camping-Guru.com and download his FREE Camping Report "Camping With The Family: How To Have A Safe, Fun, And Inexpensive Vacation" and learn some amazing Camping tips and tricks for FREE. Learn how to have the perfect vacation on a shoe-string budget. But hurry, only limited Free copies available!

http://www.Camping-Guru.com