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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Camping is a simple way to vacation with your family, but trying to prep food while setting up a tent, starting a fire and keeping kids entertained can be a lose-lose battle. Tap into these MEC-approved family camping food tips to keep everyone happy and full.

## 1. Prep as much as you can
Before you leave home, plan out what you’ll be eating. Then chop, dice and mix as much as you can before your trip. When everything is pre-portioned out, you’ll have less to bring and (just as importantly) less to [clean up](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/camping-cookware/clean-up/c/1273), which gives the whole fam more time to hang out. In case you need to make minor additions or adjustments, bring a [sweet prep set](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/camping-cookware/camping-utensils-and-cutting-boards/cooking-utensils-and-food-prep/c/1278) to dice, grate or flip with ease.

## 2. Put kids in charge of dessert
Encourage your kids to play with their food. Load cream, sugar and vanilla (or another favourite flavour) into an [ice cream ball](/en/brand/uco/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/camping-cookware/camping-utensils-and-cutting-boards/cooking-utensils-and-food-prep/c/1278) with ice and rock salt. After 20 minutes of shaking and rolling, there’ll be a pint of ice cream to share. Want something warm instead? Get inspired to go beyond basic s’mores with these [delectable s’mores variations](/en/article/craft-smores-boost-your-camp-snack-game).

## 3. Easy freezy
Stew, chili or soup can do double duty if you cook it at home first, and then freeze it. You’ll have a temporary freezer pack to keep fresh stuff chilled on your first day camping, and a yummy meal for your second or third day. Plus, the cook work is as simple as heating it up in a [pot](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/camping-cookware/outdoor-cookware/pots-and-pot-sets/c/1788) and toasting buns on the [grill](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/camping-cookware/outdoor-cookware/grills/c/1786).

## 4. Wrap master
For your first night’s meal, go for something that doesn’t require a ton of prep (or even plates), since you may be wrangling things like tent set-up and firewood. An easy option that uses fresh ingredients that are still fresh on day one? Fajitas, burritos or tacos. All your protein and veggies will be pre-cut and ready to go if you prep at home, so you just need to heat it up in one pot, wrap and eat.

## 5. Food on a stick
What’s camping without spinning something over the fire? It doesn’t always need to be a simple hot dog on a stick. Load up your roasting stick with layered veggies for a charred kebab; add smoky flavour to a mini grilled cheese sandwich by layering baguette with ham, cheese and pickle; or blacken baby bell peppers stuffed with halloumi or feta. If you want to keep things really low maintenance, wrap your eats in tinfoil, place it in the fire and sit back until it’s cooked.



Camp Kitchen Secrets: Be a campfire grill mark master

## 6. Share chef duty
Camping with another family brings a big bonus: sharing the cooking. They do one breakfast, one lunch and one dinner and you do the same. Bring a [cook set made for sharing](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/camping-cookware/outdoor-cookware/pots-and-pot-sets/pot-sets/c/1795) and offer to wash the dishes on nights they cook and vice versa. With less food prep to focus on, you can spend your time where it really counts: [coffee](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee).

## 7. DIY trail mix
Whether it’s cracking open those eat-from-the-box variety pack cereals or chugging through some rice crackers, sometimes dry stuff is a life saver. Customize your family’s snack break by building a trail mix buffet at home prior to the trip and letting everyone choose their favourite ingredients in their own [container](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/coolers-food-storage-and-bar-items/food-containers/c/1270). From pretzels and chip bits to cashews and raisins, everyone can snack their way.

## 8. Pack a mini pantry
What’s summer salad without dressing, tacos without salsa, or veggie dogs without ketchup and mustard? Instead of hauling full-size condiment bottles along, stock up on [mini squeeze bottles](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/coolers-food-storage-and-bar-items/food-containers/c/1270) and [lightweight containers](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/coolers-food-storage-and-bar-items/food-containers/c/1270) to stock your campsite mini pantry. Don’t forget your spices.

## 9. Recreate comfort foods
Just because you’re in the woods doesn’t mean you can’t dish up family favourites. Plan one meal where you go all out. Fire up a [cast iron skillet](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/camping-cookware/outdoor-cookware/frying-pans/c/1785) and [radiant toaster](/en/product/5007-285/Glacier-Stainless-Radiant-Toaster) for bacon, eggs and bagels; pour batter into a waffle iron made for an open flame, or make some kettle corn right before the stars come out. You can even make mini cake bites or muffins for the trail – just pre-mix the batter at home.



## Related articles
- [Camp kitchen secrets](/en/article/camp-kitchen-secrets)
- [How to choose a camp stove](/en/explore/choose-your-camp-stove)
- [Camping gear: where to splurge vs. save](/en/article/camping-gear-where-to-splurge-vs-save)





Smart tips to keep your camping crew happy (not hangry). From a trail mix buffet to popcorn under the stars, find out how to get set for your family camping trip.

9 easy family camping meal hacks

9 easy meal hacks for family camping

Run crews are teeming with veteran racers and pace bunnies bonding over tempo work, PRs and tales of hitting the wall. We’ve decoded some common run terms so you can keep up during walk-break chats.

### Fartlek
Fartlek is Swedish for “speed play” and is a relatively unstructured run workout where you switch between a sprint and a jog. An easy way to try a fartlek run is to choose an object ahead – like a telephone pole or fence – and sprint to that object, then slow down to a jog until you reach another object. After that, choose another target, speed up again, and repeat as many times as you’d like. The flexibility of fartleks makes them a popular workout.

### Split
Sadly this has nothing to do with bananas and ice cream or gymnastic-esque agility. Instead, it’s when you divvy up your run into different pieces and compare the times for each section. If you divided a 10km run in half, that’s two 5km splits. Splits are a great way to perfect your pace. Trying to work on finishing strong? Make a point of running the second half of your route faster than the first. That’s known as a *negative split* – fantastic for out and back runs.

### Tempo
Somewhere between a comfortable conversation and not being able to talk at all, you’ll find your tempo pace – it’s the tasty but challenging filling in your run sandwich. Start with an easy warm up and know that you’ll cool down at a similar pace. Set your effort in between to a spot where you could speak in broken words and watch your metabolic fitness levels soar.

### Endurance
This is where you build your distance. Often referred to as your LSD run (that’s Long Slow Distance), these training sessions are all about building a base and logging kilometres. Most runners will schedule these for a Saturday or Sunday, and will work in a water fountain at their turnaround point and a nice spot for an espresso or smoothie at the end. It’s a good rule of thumb to start these slow and gradually increase your pace towards the end of the run.

### Hills
Hill training is an essential part of your run arsenal. They not only increase your aerobic and anaerobic capacity, they also strengthen your muscular system, elevate your heart rate and improve your overall strength. When finding your optimal hill route, look for one that is about 0.5–1.5km in length, is out of the way of traffic, and allows you a good recovery on each downturn. Make sure you keep the incline manageable, too.

### Intervals
Interval training or speed work is a variable speed workout that flips between fast brief periods of running and slower recovery periods of about the same length of time or longer. These workouts are more structured than a fartlek (but less fun to say) and key to finishing fast and upping your pace. Try running at a fast pace for two minutes, jogging slowly for three minutes, and repeating five times. You can also find a track and use landmarks to train by distance instead of time.

### Pace
Your pace is the amount of time it takes you to run one kilometre. Holding a specific pace per kilometre can help you reach your finish time and also helps distinguish your effort levels between different types of training runs. You’ll often see pace bunnies at races, distinguished by their goal finish times (and yes, sometimes they wear bunny ears); they’re eager to get their group across the finish line in a specific time and keep a close eye on pace along the way. Be your own bunny with a great [run watch](/en/ideal-for/running/products/gear/electronics/watches/c/1153?q=%3Asales-rank).

### The Wall
Ah, that dreaded point in your run when everything suddenly seems impossible – your legs feel like blocks of concrete, you’re overwhelmed by the distance you have yet to cover, your pace falls apart and your muscles are mush. Getting over the wall is truly a triumph of will, mind over matter, moving those arms so the feet will follow and taking a walk/fuel break when needed.

### Recovery
As equally important as the other types of training, recovery runs are the sweet, swift runs between your hard workouts. These runs give you an opportunity to log distance, build your base and maintain a love affair with the sport. Recovery can also refer to beneficial cross-training like yoga, post-run routines such as foam rolling and stretching, as well as general days off. After all those fartleks, tempos, intervals and splits, you’ve earned it.



## Related articles
- [Be a better runner: how to get faster with speed work](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-get-fast-with-speed-work)
- [What’s the best running watch for you?](/en/article/whats-the-best-running-watch-for-you)
- [Gait analysis for runners](/en/explore/gait-analysis)



Think splits are just for bananas? Start here to brush up on your run lingo.

Fartlek and 9 other must-know run terms | MEC Blog

Fartlek and 9 other must-know run terms

Can we take a moment to discuss the genius of the camp s’more? Melty, crunchy and beautifully gooey – it’s probably the best camp snack ever. But here’s the thing: most folks have experienced only *one* variety of s’more. Sure, it’s a bonafide classic, but doesn’t a snack as universally lauded as the s’more deserve just a bit of experimentation?

Enter our craft s’more guide: a way to change how campers think about the humble yet much-loved s’more. We get that s’more traditionalists are apt to be a bit offended by the following experiments in s’moredom but, seriously, these are well worth a try. We’ve included some potential beverage pairings as well, for all the s’moreliers out there (sorry, we had to).

## S’mores kebabs
*Fresh local fruit + marshmallows + melted butter + toppings*



A Twist on Classic Camp S'mores



S’mores without chocolate? Oh yes, it’s possible (and delicious). Chefs Chuck Hughes and Danny Smiles show us their twist on classic camp s’mores with sweet local peaches and over-the-top toppings.

## S’moreos
*Black and white cookies + marshmallows*



Decadent in every way, this craft s’more combines two of the world’s finest desserts into one delicious, gooey mess. Recommended pairings include White Russians, reasonably hoppy IPAs or a cool glass of milk.



## Simian s’mores
*Graham crackers + marshmallows + bananas + peanut butter cups*



A subtle yet striking variation on the common s’more that pairs masterfully with root beer and dessert porters.



## S’more snaps
*Gingersnaps + marshmallows*



Pared back yet deceptively complex, s’more snaps blend the creamy texture of marshmallow with gingery spice for a truly well-rounded treat. Pairs well with chai tea or a [slightly spicy saison](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/coolers-food-storage-and-bar-items/flasks-growlers-and-wine-storage/growlers-and-beer-glasses/c/1778).



## S’morittos
*Tortilla + chocolate spread + peanut butter + marshmallows*



Playful and well-balanced, this rich and messy treat perfectly concludes a night spent enjoying [hand-blended camp margaritas](/en/product/5027-635/Vortex-Blender).



## S’mores en blanc
*Vanilla cookies + marshmallows + white chocolate*



Surprisingly light on the palate, a carefully crafted s’mores en blanc elevates tones of vanilla and honeydew from a [nicely chilled](/en/products/gear/camp-kitchen/coolers-and-food-storage/coolers/c/1269?q=%3Asales-rank) pinot grigio, chardonnay or can of coke.



## Breakfast s’mores
*Pancakes + marshmallows + strawberries + maple syrup*



If it’s brunch you’re after, this s’more delivers. Substitute chocolate spread for maple syrup for a more traditional approach. Beverage pairing? A deep, chocolately espresso extracted from your [AeroPress](/en/product/5046-862/Coffee%26-Espresso-Maker) or [hot chocolate](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/food-and-drink/drinks/coffee-and-hot-chocolate/c/1581).

*Did we miss any good combinations? Let us know on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/mec/) and tag us in your s’mores photos @mec on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mec/).*



## Related articles
- [9 easy meal hacks for family camping](/en/article/9-easy-meal-hacks-for-family-camping)
- [Camping checklist](/en/explore/camping-checklist)
- [A coffee addict’s guide to camp coffee](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee)



Seriously, these are worth a try (and they have bonus pairing suggestions).

Craft s'mores: Boost your camp snack game | MEC Blog

Craft s'mores: Boost your camp snack game

*Sure, you can hit the gym and up your reps – or you can take your training closer to a real obstacle course and get inventive.*

What is it about an obstacle course that makes you feel like you’ve really accomplished something? Scaling walls, getting covered head-to-toe in mud and muck, bailing enough to use up a box of band-aids probably have a bit to do with it. But how do you train for one of these things, so you can maximize the experience? We dreamed up some accessible ideas to get you fired up for falls and fun.*

## 1. Monkey bars
Mastering the monkey bars as a kid was a big deal and you might be surprised how challenging they can be, even now. Get swinging, skip rungs or go backward to work your core, lats, deltoids and upper back.

## 2. Ice bath
So the water may or may not be freezing at your race, but it will definitely be cold. You might as well get used to some chill sessions so you know what you’re in for.

## 3. Take shortcuts
Beat your friends to the coffee shop by hopping a fence, climbing a low wall, or helping each other up over a barrier taller than you both (without trespassing, of course).

## 4. Piggyback friends
Next time you’re headed somewhere, offer to give your bud a lift. If you’re feeling ambitious try a light jog. Carrying to-go coffee is not recommended with this one.

## 5. Slide and ramp runs
Scout out a playground with a giant slide, find a high skate bowl or ramp and run up it. Doing a warped wall obstacle on a race is pretty much a guarantee.

## 6. Crawl around
Tunnels, tubes, small spaces – there is definitely some claustrophobic crawl space waiting for you. Get familiar with the underside of your dining table and the stash of seasonal gear under your bed.

## 7. Stadium sprint
Find a high school track or stay behind after the next football game. Run the risers in singles, then skip every first or second stair and repeat.

## 8. Mud fight
Exactly what it sounds like. Get used to getting dirty.

## 9. Balancing act
Grab a balancing board and use it any time you’re doing something inactive – at your stand-up desk, while you’re on the phone or even reading. Switch up your stance and try going one-legged too.

## 10. Provoke the cat
You may as well get used to a few scrapes and scratches, plus your cat will love you.

## 11. Water walkers
Head to your local pool and make like an aquasizer. Run, walk and tread your way from either end of the pool. Add some flotation devices to your ankles to turn up the intensity.

## 12. Gym class hero
Remember those brutal sit-up competitions you had to do in elementary school gym class? Challenge your friends, coworkers or siblings.

## 13. Pile high
You know that pile of dirt out back? Yeah, that one. Or the gravel one. Or the sand one beside it. Climb that thing and descend. Repeat until your legs burn.

## 14. Walk the line
A roll of masking tape and a flat surface are your new best friend. Walk that line, again and again and again. Tip toes, variable speeds and backwards mode encouraged.

## 15. Trampoline time
What better way to get comfortable with getting some air? Bonus: toss and catch a ball while you’re on it to dial up your coordination.

## 16. Long way down
Make friends with heights and head to a local pool with a diving tower. Start at one metre and work your way up to 10.

## 17. Mind the gap
Before parkour athletes could flip, they jumped. Couch to floor, deck to grass, bed to pile of pillows. Get used to taking a leap.

**Kid-like enthusiasm plus grown-up common sense are strongly encouraged.*



How do you get ready to climb a warped wall or dodge swinging heavy bags?

17 weird ways to train for an obstacle course

Want your camp-chef repertoire to consist of more than hot dogs, chips, tang and warm beer? You just need the right tools (and access to these little known secrets) to rise in the ranks from camp cook to camp chef. From smoked brie to ice-cold margaritas, we’ve compiled our go-to kitchen essentials and prep techniques for elevating a camp kitchen.



## Craft camp snacks
Sure, chips are great, but there’s a lot to be said for classy camp snacks made the slow way. See how it’s done.



Camp Kitchen Secrets: Craft camping snack ideas



**The secret**: Camp Chef Popcorn Popper



## Camp hootenannies and recoveries
Our methods for lantern-lit kitchen parties and peachy mornings.



Camp Kitchen Secrets: Camp hootenannies and recoveries

## Kick your camp into gear
Easily the most delicious way to get your crew out of bed in less than 10 minutes. Get caffeinated below:



Camp Kitchen Secrets: How to make Aeropress coffee



**The secret**: [AeroPress Coffee Maker](/en/product/5046-862/coffee%26-espresso-maker-with-tote-bag)



## Pro-grill techniques
Technique transforms your packable, ultralight grill from handy appliance into camp-chef secret weapon.





**The secret**: Light My Fire Grandpa’s FireGrill

Take your camp chef game to the next level. Explore our latest camp kitchen gear and toys.



## Related articles
- [A coffee addict’s guide to camp coffee](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee)
- [How to choose a camp stove](/en/explore/choose-your-camp-stove)
- [Camping checklist](/en/explore/camping-checklist)



We reveal a few kitchen gadgets to step up your camp culinary game.

Camp kitchen secrets | MEC Blog

Camp kitchen secrets

Some say camping without beer is just sitting in the woods. Most MEC staff feel the same way about camping without coffee. As of this summer, we carry more than 100 different kinds of coffee-making products. So to help campers get their buzz on we created a guide to outdoor coffee creating to help you drag yourself out of your tent and get appropriately caffeinated for a day of camping shenanigans.

A warm cup of joe is like warm company in the morning while you wait for a fellow camper to start the fire and whip up a skillet of scrambled eggs, or while you scrounge through the cooler for a leftover hot dog wiener from last night’s dinner.

Some coffee addicts are more selective than others, so use this spectrum – ordered from most expedient to most refined – to help you narrow your options and match your coffee style.



*[Gel](/en/product/5034-182/espresso-love-gel)* — *Filter* — *[French press](/en/product/5040-518/personal-java-press?colour=Blue)* — *[Percolator](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/coffee-makers-and-kettles/percolators/c/1782)* — *[AeroPress](/en/product/5046-862/coffee%26-espresso-maker-with-tote-bag)* — *[Pour-over](/en/product/5050-845/Collapsible-Java-Drip)* — *Handpresso*

For example, if you prefer a bolder, grittier coffee then opt for the French press or reusable filter. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a cleaner, brighter flavour, you might prefer the pour-over or AeroPress method as part of your camp coffee routine. Read on for more details, coffee lovers.



At first sight, the [espresso gel](/en/product/5034-182/espresso-love-gel) might be the least appealing; however the 5-star reviews tell us there’s more to this untraditional ‘spro than meets the eye. Reviewers describe the taste as “just awesome” and “more like a dessert.” Plus, you can get your caffeine boost in about 7 seconds, without ever boiling a cup of water. Give it a try and let us know if you’re feeling the espresso love.

**Method**: Tear open package. Squeeze in mouth. Swallow.

**Fussiness level**: Completely and utterly unfussy

**Flavour profile**: Gooey, chocolatey

**Bean grind**: None. It’s the easiest way to get caffeinated, even easier than chewing on a handful of beans.

**Pro tip**: These are gluten and dairy free. Can double as dessert.



A re-usable, submersible filter made of mesh is almost as simple as it gets. We like the MSR Mug Mate Coffee Filter version. You can brew your favourite cup o’ joe with minimal fuss and bother. Just put in a few scoops of your select roast, pour in boiling water, and voilà, fresh coffee.

**Method**: Dump grinds into filter. Pour boiling water over top

**Fussiness level**: Minimal fuss

**Flavour profile**: Bold, gritty, rich

**Bean grind**: Coarse

**Pro tip**: For slightly less gritty coffee, remove the filter from your cup after 1.5 minutes. Works for tea too.



Want to make a lot of coffee in a hurry? The [French Press](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/coffee-makers-and-kettles/french-press-coffee-makers/c/1784) is your new camping companion. Make almost 1L of seriously good coffee. We carry several styles of the French Press and the [GSI Java Press](/en/product/5040-518/personal-java-press?colour=Blue) is one of best reviewed. The plunger has a silicone ring to eliminate stray grounds from getting in the brew. Plus, the insulated nylon cozy keep things hot in case you like sleep later than the early birds among your camping crew.

**Method**: Dump grinds into pot. Add boiling water. Cover. Wait a bit. Press.

**Fussiness level**: Not very fussy

**Flavour profile**: Thick, gritty, rich

**Bean grind**: Coarse


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[Percolators](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/coffee-makers-and-kettles/percolators/c/1782) were all the rage before electric drip machines became a staple in most households. This [stainless steel GSI percolator](/en/product/5058-514/glacier-stainless-steel-9-cup-percolator?colour=Stainless+Steel) is tough enough to withstand boiling over an open flame. Plus the ergonomic handle makes for easy pouring even for the sleepiest of campers.

**Method**: Fill chamber with grinds. Add boiling water. Wait and watch the knob as the water becomes coffee.

**Fussiness level**: Medium fuss, patience required

**Flavour profile**: Smooth, mild

**Bean grind**: Coarse

**Pro tip**: When you’re done making coffee, remove the ground chamber and use the base pot to boil hot water for oatmeal or to re-hydrate meals.

**Other great percolators**: [GSI Pioneer 12 Cup Percolator](/en/product/5046-068/pioneer-12-cup-percolator?colour=Blue) and [GSI Glacier 6-cup Percolator](/en/product/5018-691/Glacier-Stainless-Steel-6-Cup-Percolator).



At age 76, the inventor of the [Aerobie](/en/product/5047-876/pro-ring) flying ring decided he wanted a way to create a single perfect cup of coffee without turning on the electric coffee machine. After 40 iterations, the [AeroPress coffee maker](/en/product/5046-862/Coffee%26-Espresso-Maker) was born. The AeroPress is arguably one of the best ways to make coffee while camping or at home. It delivers a perfect cup with crema and all, and weighs less than the average hiking boot. Coffee snob approved.

**Method**: There are several different styles, but you could try this one: Dump one scoop of grounds into the chamber. Add splash of water to bloom. Wait 20 to 30 seconds. Add the rest of the water filling to the top. Stir. Wait 45 to 60 seconds. Place microfilter in the basket and twist onto plunger. Plunge.

**Fussiness level**: The multi-step AeroPress process is a welcome ritual and celebration for refined coffee addicts. If you were to make a fuss about one thing while you’re camping, let this be it.

**Flavour profile**: Smooth, clean, crisp

**Bean grind**: Fine

**Pro tip**: Rinse your AeroPress filter once it’s in the basket to get rid of any paper flavour. Pre-heat your mug by swishing it with hot water.



Drip coffee has become widely available and most local coffee shops and roasters. It’s one of the simplest ways to deliver a clean and bright cup of coffee without all the bells and whistles, especially this 5-star rated [GSI Collapsible Java Drip](/en/product/5050-845/Collapsible-Java-Drip) version. It’s a civilized compact drip setup that brews coffee for 1 to 2 groggy campers, and collapses into a flat portable circle.

**Method**: Place filter in cone. Add grounds. Add a splash of boiling water to bloom grounds. Wait 20 to 30 seconds. Add the rest of the water is a swirling motion.

**Fussiness level**: It’s not fuss; it’s a labour of love.

**Flavour profile**: Clean, crisp, delicate

**Bean grind**: Medium-coarse

**Pro tip**: Place the cone directly over your travel mug so the coffee stays hot for longer.

**More pour over style coffee makers**: [Sea To Summit X-Brew Coffee Dripper](/en/product/6006-869/x-brew-coffee-dripper) and the [GSI Ultralight Java Drip](/en/product/5018-696/ultralight-java-drip).



For amateur or experienced baristas, the Handpresso will get you the perfect shot, and impress your fellow campers. It may look a bit like a bike pump, but it makes a fine shot of espresso topped with perfect crema.

**Method**: Pump the unit up to the green bar. Pour in boiling water. Fill the DomePod with ground coffee or ESE pods. Lock on the lid and press out the elixir of life (aka high quality espresso).

**Fussiness level**: Once you find the perfect grind, prepare your pod, heat your water to 92 degrees, and give it just enough pressure, this tool will work better than an expensive Italian espresso machine. Worth the fuss.

**Flavour profile**: Clean, crisp

**Bean grind**: Fine

**Pro tip**: Pick up a DomePod case which allows you to pre-load your grinds into individual pods for each espresso, reducing your prep time at camp.

**Another great espresso option**: [GSI Moka Espresso Pot](/en/product/5056-108/moka-espresso-pot?colour=Stainless+Steel)!

*If you found this post helpful, share it on social. And don’t forget to tag @mec in your camp coffee photos on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mec/).*



## Related articles
- [Gift ideas for people who really, really like coffee](/en/article/gift-ideas-for-people-who-really-really-like-coffee)
- [How to choose a camp stove](/en/explore/choose-your-camp-stove)
- [Camping checklist](/en/explore/camping-checklist)



Use this spectrum – from expedient to refined – to match your outdoor coffee style.

A coffee addict's guide to camp coffee

Growing up skiing, I went on to become a ski-a-holic and CSIA Level II instructor while my sister swore off the sport. Where did my family and I go wrong?

If I remember right, we were at Nakiska and no more than eight and six years old when my Mum snuck up behind my little sister and gently unhooked the ski leash she was tethered to. Although she was in control, as soon as little Stacey realized her safety net was gone, she went wild with panic, gained a fair amount of speed, and went crashing into an orange safety fence. That was the beginning of the end.

Over the years she humoured us with family trips to Whitefish, Montana or days out on local mountains, but recently, while we were packing for a trip with friends to Fernie, she lamented, “Why doesn’t anyone believe me that I just don’t like skiing?” I don’t know why I hadn’t believed her. To me, skiing is just so damn *fun*. How could anyone not enjoy whipping down the hill, chill on your cheeks, feeling sheets of untouched snow at the base of your skis? There’s nothing else like it.

So, I figured it couldn’t have just been that one snow fence incident, but rather a collection of recurrent gaffes on the part of our family. Here’s where she said we went wrong:

### 1. Ski the same hill every time
Keep them super attached to the same bunny hill and same magic carpet. No need to expand their comfort or skill level.

*Ski coach fix: Introduce your kids to a bunch of different hills and runs. A change in terrain will give them the confidence to tackle new slopes as their ski level improves.*

### 2. Don’t ask, just do
Ignore your kids’ requests to repeat the bunny hill yet again. Remember, as the parent, you make the rules – they don’t know what they want.

*Ski coach fix: Stick it out on the bunny hill until you see confidence levels soar. Don’t rely too much on props to keep your kids upright, as they will rely on you to steer and stop. Play follow-the-leader or red light-green light and let them set the pace.*

### 3. Ski, lift, repeat
Stay focused on your end game – you’re raising a skier here. Breaks should be kept to a minimum, with lap and run count high. The more chairs you get in, the better.

*Ski coach fix: Give your kids a break from the descent and still work on their snowplough: find a flat space at the base of the hill out of the way of ski traffic and have them make bow ties and arrow shapes in the snow with only their boots. This helps develop the ability to pivot their feet without the weight of a ski.*



### 4. Seek to ski in cold weather
Snow covered trees and summit vistas are only enhanced by a severe drop in temperature. They’ll be tougher skiers if they go out at 40 below zero.

*Ski coach fix: Keep your kids warm and dry to keep them happy. Up your number of lodge visits as the temperature drops and carry extra layers, keeping a close eye out for frostbite (when pink cheeks turn white). On extra cold days, [hand and toe warmers](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/first-aid%2C-health-and-safety/hand-and-toe-warmers/c/1212) and [tasty hot chocolate](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/food-and-drink/coffee-and-hot-chocolate/c/1581) are your best friends.*

### 5. Try to teach them yourself
You’ve got a lot of years under your belt, and you can teach a toddler a thing or two. Nothing brings a family closer together than 24/7 time on the hill.

*Ski coach fix: It’s that universal truth that no one wants to hear it from their own family. If you’ve got young skiers, stick them in a lesson. They’ll be comfortable around other kids at the same skill level and chomping at the bit to show you what they learned when class is over.*

### 6. Resort to Peer Pressure
Persuade your kids to do it your way, before they get old enough to realize they can form their own opinions about sports. “Everyone is outside skiing and having fun except you” is a good place to start.

*Ski coach fix: Your kids just might not love skiing the same way you do, or they might want to take up snowboarding, play in the terrain park, or try Nordic skiing instead. Keep them loving winter by trading in skis for tobogganing, tubing, building forts and snowmen or snowshoeing and try again next season.*

In the end, my sister still has fun in winter and she’s very active. Throughout high school she danced a lot, she plays softball in the summer, hits the gym frequently, and loves to run. I’ve decided to let her go a couple winters free from harassment. Besides, I estimate I’ve only got about five years before I can teach her kids to ski instead.



Ever wonder why some kids grow up loving a sport while others come to hate it? Learn to keep your kids loving the slopes.

How to make your kids hate skiing | MEC Blog

How to make your kids hate skiing

I’m interested in what folks keep in their packs for emergencies, and I like to compare notes so I can create the ultimate kit suited to my style of backcountry travel. My trips are usually one-day missions, where I depart from home at 3am and venture into the darkness. During early season, I start thinking about what I should include or pull from my bag. Contents might change depending on the mission or how remote my destination is.

There’s always a focus on lightening our loads in the backcountry and I cringe at the idea of adding more gear, but there should be a few minimum items carried by all enthusiasts. I’d like to think this list, made with one- to three-day excursions in mind, hits the sweet spot. Some of these items never leave my bag and would see me through an injury or unplanned bivy. Wherever possible, I try to use items that are multi-purpose to save space. Coordinate with your trip partners to find out what gear can be shared amongst a group and adjust your first aid kit to group numbers and personal requirements.

***Note:**** This list does not include backcountry safety essentials. Visit [Avalanche Canada](http://www.avalanche.ca/) for further information, and make sure you’re trained in avalanche safety before venturing into any backcountry situation.*

##### Ski straps
I carry four [ski straps](/en/products/snow/ski-straps/c/2142): two 15cm straps and two 24cm straps as a minimum. The uses are endless, from keeping you organized and efficient when loading a helicopter to lashing your skies/poles together like a pro.

Other strap hacks:

- Use the strap to bind your skins to your skis in the event they aren’t sticking.
- If your skins aren’t sticking to the snow, these add grip to your stride.
- Lash extras to your pack.
- Compress stuff sacks.
- You can immobilize limbs for a variety of injuries when you use them with ski poles or sticks. They can also hold pressure on soft tissue injuries or soakers on large open wounds.
- Helps MacGyver a rescue toboggan by fastening skis together.

##### Small headlamp
If I know I’m going to need a lamp, I’ll usually take a high powered model. I wouldn’t recommend a small [headlamp](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/headlamps-and-lighting/headlamps/c/1306?filters%5Bcustom_fields.ideal%20for%5D%5B0%5D=backcountry%20skiing) as your primary light source, but I carry one as a backup unit for navigation. I’m a fan of the Petzl Zipka headlamp.

##### Tape
Tape can be used for injury aid, taping parts and skins to skis, and general resourcefulness.

- Electrician tape is great until temperatures dip.
- [Duct tape](/en/product/5028-390/duct-tape) is best, but you can’t avoid the sticky residue.
- White medical tape is great, and can help in a real emergency.

##### Emergency bivy or tarp and sleeping pad
[Bivies](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/emergency-and-survival-gear/emergency-blankets-and-bivies/c/1209) or [tarps](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-tents-tarps-and-bivies/tarps-and-light-shelters/c/1441) are great to have if an injury crops up. These lightweight shelters provide insulation from the snow and protection from the elements. And should you ever get trapped by the dark, you’ll need a stronghold.

- There are many emergency models of bivies to choose from. I tend to carry a siltarp that can fit two people for additional warmth and can also double as a shelter. A bright color helps you be seen.
- A [bivy sleeping pad](/en/product/0808-097/Evazote-Bivy-Sleeping-Pad) is cut to fit flat inside your pack, making it a great seat or extra insulation for an unexpected night out. I’ll often sit on my pack and put this under my feet, and it definitely makes a difference in heat loss.

##### Lighter and firestarter
In cases of delayed exit or unexpected overnights, fire is a great asset. Also, if someone incurs an injury and you’re stuck awaiting evacuation, it can help with shock prevention.

- A waterproof and impact-resistant [lighter](/en/product/6015-505/fire-lite-fuel-free-lighter) case is great. I always store mine in an additional re-sealable plastic bag, because you can’t be too prepared. It’s best to make sure your ski partner has one as well.
- There are a few different kinds of [firestarters](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/stoves-fuel-and-fire/fire-starters-matches-and-lighters/c/1282), so select the one best for you and test it out before you depart. I prefer the [sticks](/en/product/5061-802/stormproof-sweetfire-strikeable-fire-starter) and have had good success starting a fire in doubtful conditions.

##### Multi-tool
You never know when you might need to do a field repair. Find a [multi-tool](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-and-accessories/knives-and-tools/multi-tools/c/1291) that works to cover your needs in an unexpected situation. Look at driver bits that suit the equipment you carry.



##### First aid kit
Taking a Wilderness First Aid course will help you think outside the box in case you end up dealing with backcountry emergencies. A [first aid kit](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/first-aid-kits-and-supplies/first-aid-kits/c/1210) is a definite necessity. Being able to modify or tweak your gear can be a real lifesaver.

- One thing I always make sure I have is one pressure dressing. The soaker gauze utilizes tensor bandage-like wrap for pressure, but can also be used as support for sprains and strains.
- Suture bandages, and lots of them.
- Bring along some Ibuprofen for that early season hip flexor pain.

##### Bailing wire
Simply put, if something starts falling apart or breaks, this is a great way to hold it together.

##### Synthetic jacket**
**
I carry my [MEC Commix Hoodie](/en/products/clothing/jackets/insulated-jackets/down-insulated-jackets/c/1022?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=mec&filters%5Bcustom_fields.Gender%5D%5B0%5D=men%27s) (women can grab the [MEC Boundary Light Down Jacket](/en/product/5059-838/boundary-light-down-jacket)) in a light dry bag and squeeze all the air out so it’s totally compact. Warm, compressible layers are essential to any backcountry outing. I bring mine every single time.

##### Pole baskets
In serious powder, poles are useless without baskets, so bring an extra pair and it could save your day, or at the very least, get you a few more turns. [These Powder Baskets](/en/products/snow/backcountry-skiing/poles/c/2071?filters%5Bprice%5D%5B0%5D%5Bto%5D=25) are a great option.

##### Prima Bar
Fight the bonk and fuel the engine! These tasty bars are equally good frozen or thawed and pack a decent calorie punch for their size and weight. Cherry Coconut is my favourite flavour.

##### Small hot packs
[Hot packs](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/emergency-and-survival-gear/hand-and-toe-warmers/c/1212?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=grabber) make the coldest part of the night bearable. Make sure you bring multiple, and place these small packs in key areas to keep you warm, like around your femoral arteries (target it at your inner upper thigh or where they branch out at your tailbone). It’s amazing how long a single night can feel, and these little guys give you the confidence boost to see the night through.

##### Skin wax
When you’re out spring skiing with sticky snow conditions, it’s almost mandatory to keep a small block of [skin wax](/en/products/snow/ski-tuning-tools/wax/c/2132?filters%5Bcustom_fields.ideal%20for%5D%5B0%5D=backcountry%20skiing) to prevent snow building up on your skin bases. Bringing this wax along helps you save your hip flexors and energy.

##### Batteries
Someone always forgets to put fresh [batteries](/en/products/electronics/batteries/c/1113) in either their headlamp or the transceiver. Pack a couple as backup and be the hero of the day.



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