Whether you’re a first time camper in need of some starter swag, or you’re an experienced outdoorsman seeking an update, Bob Ward’s has got what you need. There’s tons of products to choose from, so be sure to peruse the website or store locations yourself! Here’s just a few of my personal picks from their massive selection of outdoor gear. Happy camping!
COOKING
On every camping trip, you’re going to get hungry. You’re thinking, god isn’t that obvious? And sure, it is, but I want to tell you about a cool contraption that will make camp food much more enjoyable. Gone are the days of jerky based meals (although, I still indulge in them from time to time) here are the days of compact kitchens!
With the Camp Chef Rainier 2x Cooking System you can have bacon and eggs as a side to the wilderness paradise. Non-stick aluminum griddle, an additional burner to heat up water, and a compact design makes a full breakfast under the big sky more feasible than ever. This set includes a durable travel bag, so adventures won’t be hindered!
BACKPACK
When camping, one of the most important items to consider is the item that holds all the other items… In short, a backpack. A good backpack can make or break your Montana excursion, because if it’s not high quality, you could end up hauling everything by hand. Bob’s Ward’s has a massive selection of bags, backpacks, and everything in between. This one in particular is the Osprey Ariel Plus 70!
Made for adventurous backpackers, this pack is as durable as it is spacious and thoughtfully designed to be comfortable for men and women. The back panel is breathable, so those long legs of hiking won’t get your back too sweaty. No fear of rain or poor weather, because the Plus 70 has rain cover as well as a Daylid. There’s even an internal hydration reservoir sleeve to keep you quenched on the road!
TENT
So, we’ve made it through how we’re eating and how we’re hauling, what about where we’re sleeping?! The Alps Mountaineering Aries 2 Person With Floor Saver Tent has everything you need for a lightweight yet comfortable sleep on the forest floor. This tent will hold up against the unpredictable Montana elements, with mesh walls for the cool night air and full fly coverage for the stormy seasons. The unique pole design makes this 2 person tent possible for 3, with nearly upright walls on the inside. There’s 2 doors for easy entrance and exit, and a mesh roof that allows for some stellar stargazing. Weatherproof fly buckles ensure a cozy shelter from a blistering storm, and the 75D 185T polyester fabric resists sun damage and promises durability.
SLEEPING BAG
Okay, we’ve got the cooking handled. Hauling and shelter are covered. How about the bed we make that we have to lie in? The Mountain Hardwear Lamina 15 Degree F Sleeping Bag will keep you cozy all night long. Not only is this bag a striking blue color, it’s durable and lightweight so traveling with it is easy.
This bag is made for wet climates and bone shivering temperatures, so whatever conditions you end up, you’ll be sleeping through the night in the coziest fashion. The synthetic insulation mimics that of Goose down, but is much more lightweight and effective. Welded structure of this bag prevents cold spots, and the durable waterproof finish means that you’ll stay high and dry inside your tent, regardless of the wilderness conditions.
WATER PURIFIERS
The source of life! The foundation of healthy living itself! Water! This is a very important gadget to have on the road, and it’s actually the cheapest item on my list here today. MSR Aquatabs can be dropped into any scoop of river, lake, or stream water to make it safe to drink.
The last thing you want on your great escape is a tummy riddled with upset from drinking unclean H2o! Bob Ward’s carries many water purification devices, such as water bottles with filters, kettles, etc. but the one thing that sets these tabs apart is the on demand aspect of it. You can have your water in any container, throw one of these puppies in and start slurping almost immediately!
HEADLAMP
And on the last product, Krawdaddy said, “let there be light.” So, I found a headlamp that will rock your socks off. The Lux Pro Flashlights Cubi738 Waterproof Ultra LED Rechargeable Headlamp will guide you through the darkest of nights.
With over 360 Lumens, it has 6 modes to choose from for any situation you may encounter. 45 adjustable degrees of range ensure that you can put light wherever you need it, and the headband will keep it comfortably fit to your noggin. It’s waterproof, and super lightweight.
For more recommendations from the MT Outdoor crew, check out Montana Grant’s article about Bob Ward’s Best!
