Ep161 - Ghost Camping Crackdown and a Camping Fee Overhaul
No-shows, know-hows, and new fees: the camping reservation revolution...In an episode as haunting as it is helpful, Ben and Lauren unpack the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service's proposed camping fee reforms, from new facility-based pricing tiers to the crackdown on 'ghost camping' – the frustrating practice of booking sites that go unused. Our outdoor experts examine the results of the 2022 survey that sparked these changes, debate the effectiveness of various booking systems, and share their own approaches to responsible reservation practices. From Ben's unwritten campers' code to comparing cancellation policies across Australia, tune in for an honest conversation about balancing access, affordability, and accountability in our cherished natural spaces.Shortcuts:00:00 - Intro01:17 - Camping Fees Reformed: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service04:53 - Hipcamp06:33 - Booking Systems09:21 - 2022 Survey Topics of Note10:41 - Fees and Charges12:07 - The Proposal: Facility-Based Fees14:40 - Unpacking the 6 Tiers: Inclusions and Party Numbers17:34 - Cancellations 18:42 - Ghost Camping Crackdown24:40 - Lauren's Approach to Ghost Camping29:05 - Last Minute Changes and Cancellations30:50 - An Unsaid Campers' Code!35:25 - Addressing Ghost Camping as the Primary Issue39:10 - Cancellation Policies in VIC, QLD, SA, and WA41:13 - Speculative Bookings43:33 - Lauren's Key to Preventing Ghost Camping 45:25 - Feedback Due on May 2546:10 - SummaryJoin the conversation over on our Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowysHead to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs:https://www.snowys.com.au
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46:57
Ep160 - Decoding LP Gas & Choosing a Stove
Fueling your flames: the gas-tronomy of camp cooking…Our gear gurus demystify LP gas and camping stoves, breaking down the crucial differences between high-pressure sizzlers and low-pressure simmers.In a fired-up discussion, Ben and Lauren go from propane, n-butane, and isobutane science, to practical connections, canister considerations, and selecting stoves that best suit your style of camp cuisine. Tune in for a technical yet digestible guide to understanding why your flame might fizzle at altitude or freeze in colder conditions!Shortcuts:00:00 – Intro03:55 – Ben’s Episode Overview04:22 – Thanks, Tugboat!07:33 – High Pressure Vs Low Pressure Stoves08:43 – Low Pressure Stoves: How Regulators Work11:43 – Maintaining a Steady Gas Output: From 800kPa to 2.75kPa!12:02 – The Effect of External Temperature12:49 – High Pressure Stoves: No Regulator13:59 – kPa of Single-Use Propane Cylinders?15:25 – What Exactly is LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas)?16:28 – Propane: External Temperatures, Internal Pressure, and Boiling Points17:28 – N-Butane and Isobutane: External Temperatures, Internal Pressure, and Boiling Points22:20 – Connecting the Right Gas to the Right Stove24:04 – Weather Performance26:59 – Cylinder and Canister Types33:39 – Choosing a Stove42:14 – Accessories43:30 – SummaryJoin the conversation over on our Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowysHead to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs:https://www.snowys.com.au
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44:35
Ep159 - Bedrolls for Camping
Bedrolls for bushcraft: when simplicity beats sophistication…Ben and Lauren unfold the timeless charm of bedroll camping for those seeking simplicity under the stars. From envelope-style swags to canvas-covered mats and sturdy stretcher beds, our gear gurus roll through both commercial options and clever DIY solutions for every budget and backroad.Covering practical aspects of different designs, tune in for an overall glimpse at minimalist sleeping arrangements that reconnect you with camping’s rugged roots while still delivering a decent night’s rest.Shortcuts:00:00 – Intro04:12 – Best Options for a Bedroll Sleeping Arrangement06:07 – Pole-Free, Envelope-Style Swags07:39 – Canvas-Covered Sleeping Mats08:34 – Stretcher Beds09:34 – If Money Was No Objection…10:38 – Ben and Lauren’s DIY Bedroll Suggestions14:03 – Yoga Mats Vs Canvas15:18 – SummaryJoin the conversation over on our Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowysHead to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs:https://www.snowys.com.au
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16:30
Ep158 - Camping Clothes, Hats, & Shoes for All Weather
From boots to beanies, Ben and Lauren unpack the camping gear on the cusp of convenient and comfy...Our outdoor experts wade into the footwear debate, untangle cotton versus synthetic, and reveal why merino wool is Best On (Camp)Ground for all-round, all-weather performance. From mozzie-deterrent strategies to the unexpected uses of dishwashing gloves, the focus remains on adaptable and practical camp clothing. Tune in for an essential guide to resilient outdoor attire - your first line of defense against the elements in unpredictable weather!Shortcuts:00:00 - Intro01:36 - Clothing Recommendations for Camping in All Weather02:49 - Lauren's Footwear Stance03:43 - Ben's Footwear Selections05:40 - Crocs, Tevas, and Standard Flip-Flops07:34 - Shorts and Long Pants08:42 - Cotton Vs Synthetic09:22 - Managing Milder Weather10:36 - Packing and Dressing for Comfort11:37 - Managing Mozzies12:43 - Merino Wool13:33 - Gloves, Beanies, and Hats16:30 - Merino Liners and... Dishwashing Gloves?!17:10 - Fleece and Jackets19:30 - SummaryJoin the conversation over on our Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowysHead to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs:https://www.snowys.com.au
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21:06
Ep157 - How to Store a Self-Inflating Mat
Putting it all out in the open(cell): the mat storage methods that matter!In this episode, Ben and Lauren unpack the proper storage techniques for self-inflating sleeping mats, addressing the critical balance between compression damage and storage space. Our gear gurus explain the science behind foam cell recovery, differences between bonded and single-layer mats, and practical solutions for preserving your mat’s loft and longevity.From Ben’s space-saving suggestions to Lauren’s maintenance tips – tune in for a concise guide to ensuring your sleeping mat remains comfortable for countless adventures to come.00:00 - Intro 00:40 - Ben's New Favourite Snack?!02:59 - How to Store a Self-Inflating Mat03:36 - The Result of Compressing04:36 - Bonded Mats05:10 - The General Rule: Store it Uncompressed05:57 - Managing Space06:07 - Ben's Recommendation06:59 - Lauren's Tips for Mat Care08:26 - Storing Your Mat Loosely Compressed09:38 - Thanks, Kelly!Join the conversation over on our Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowysHead to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs:https://www.snowys.com.au
The Snowys Camping Show is a podcast for outdoor adventurers, who love spending every spare minute they have exploring. Tune in each week for your dose of outdoor fun, advice, and information on camping, 4x4, caravanning, hiking, bushwalking, and more that you can listen to when you're not adventuring.
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