Summer Checkups

The dust has settled and the First 72 Hours have passed. Follow along as I build a long term plan via Prudent Prepping.

Checkups aren't just for cars, as there are many other things that can use looking after on a regular basis. 

Well... I did happen to start with my car, but that was just the beginning.

Car Checkup

I take my car through the wash at the local station about once a month, which is when the dust starts to show on the white paint. The last time I went, the overhead blower didn't do a very good job of clearing the water from the windshield so I turned on my wipers as I drove out. Bad idea: both arms struggled to move, and when they did, the blades partially tore off the frame. In my defense, I wash the windshield every time I fill up, but I don't necessarily lift the wipers up every time. 

I live close to 3 different parts stores, so the shop with the easy access got my business. I don't have a good picture of the old blades as this was after dark, so just imagine a good half of the rubber edge flopping on each side. I believe the past three weeks being in the high 90s to low100s signed the death warrant on these wiper blades.

Wipers, washer fluid and spare tire pressure check are things I do twice a year, 4th of July-ish and Christmas, so these were due. 

Get Home Bag Checkup

My bag is always being refreshed as I use some of its contents every month. What isn't looked at regularly is the Purple Pack Lady's bag; her schedule is so janky that I'm lucky if I see her car once a week!

The only thing needing to be refreshed was her older model Nitecore P12GT, so I recharged it with the boxy charger. This exact kit appears to be not available through Amazon, but the flashlight is still a current model, just with different charging options.

Available at Amazon for $69 (nice!)

Home Checkup

Since  I live in a rented condo, I don't have to worry about fixing leaks, physical faults or even smoke and CO2 detectors. That being said, there are items I do keep an eye on, and the security lights in the carport are one of the things I don't leave to the maintenance folk. Due to spotty coverage, we've added motion detector lights to ensure the cars and my motorcycle are visible without having extra  spotlights running 8-10 hours a night. 

I try to keep a gas shutoff tool by the meters for our fourplex, but the last one disappeared from where I had it somewhat hidden and hooked to the gas meter. However, our building is having foundation drains installed, and dirt was removed around the meters to the point where I guess the wrench was exposed.

I won't not be trying to replace it at the meter for at least another month, because the situation looks like this:   

Sorry, but I couldn't take a picture that really shows the depth of the trench. You'll have to trust me when I say it is 8' to the bottom of the bracing gear. My front door moat is even deeper, at almost 10' deep.! The plywood shown at the top is the sides of the 'bridge' leading to the front door.

We have another 2-4 weeks of this work before the trenches will be filled, landscaping replaced, irrigation run and the whole house air conditioner replaced. It's been an interesting 5 months, in the Chinese proverb definition of 'interesting'.

Medical Checkups

I have had myself looked at this year as well, and there is nothing major wrong with me: blood pressure is good and cholesterol is a bit high (it's hereditary), but I can't get new glasses until my cataracts are fixed. This isn't a shock; I knew I was due for this surgery two years ago, but now there's no avoiding it. I'm hoping to get everything done this year, as the chance of taking an actual, no-joke vacation early next year is possible! Wish me luck!

Recap and Takeaway

• Regular checkups should be scheduled so that when a disaster hits, everyone is confident in what is packed and ready to use.
• Be certain that bags and kits in your second (or third) vehicle are checked too.

* * *

Just a reminder: if you plan on buying anything through Amazon, please consider using our referral link. When you do, a portion of the sale comes back here to help keep this site running!

 

If you have comments, suggestions or corrections, please post them so we all can learn. And remember, Some Is Always Better Than None!

NOTE: All items tested were purchased by me. No products have been loaned in exchange for a favorable review. Any items sent to me for T&E will be listed as such. Suck it Feds.

Motorcycle First Aid Kit, Part the Latest

The dust has settled and the First 72 Hours have passed. Follow along as I build a long term plan via Prudent Prepping. 

Maybe the title for this should be "MY Motorcycle First Aid Kit", since I'm certain there have to be kits labeled for motorcycles and setups created by other riders. The problem I had is how to make the things I need accessible to me after a crash, and I believe I've solved it.

Zip Ties!

The old joke about fixing everything with duct tape or bailing wire needs to be amended to add zip ties since there are so many places tie wire won't allow for a tight twist to finish and tape isn't right. 

I'm attaching a zip tie mount to the interior of my saddle bag door as the final (for now, at least) place to keep everything secure and handy. I've had them loose in the saddlebag where they were flopping around when there wasn't anything in there, and I tried sticking them to the back. Neither was good: if I was carrying stuff no one could see the first aid gear on the back wall, and if I kept it loose I was worried about damage to the packaging and ruining any sterile seals. In March I posted the first attempt of carrying a first aid kit on my motorbike where you can get links to what I currently have.

The zip tie holding the two bags together is threaded normally, and the zip tie attaching the bag to the mount is backwards, meaning it won't ratchet down tight but still hold things together by a small amount of friction, allowing the first aid supplies to be removed from the saddle bag door easily when needed. There's no way that I could find to show that small zip tie in a picture, but if you try it you'll see that it'll slide out with very little effort. 

This project has been a struggle for me, as I had to stop adding bits and pieces of first aid gear to my motorcycle such like a very small kit with Band-Aids of various sizes, triple antibiotic and such. I've convinced myself that in the case of an actual accident, it's unlikely that Band-Aids are going to be much help, and if they are then many other people will probably have them. My only concession to this 'pack ratting' is a Pocket Pack of Kleenex and a small bottle of Advil in my riding jackets. The Advil gets refilled with fresh pills from a big bottle purchased from a warehouse store.

The end result, as of today.

I'll have to run this for a while to see if it really is safe and secure, but I'm optimistic. 

Recap and Takeaway

• I try to have first aid gear close to me wherever I am, and on the motorcycle is one of the more important places where I never want to need it.
• I really like what is in the Adventure Medical pack, which you can buy from Amazon and use our BCP link. The North American Rescue kit needs to be purchased directly from them. Seriously, go right to their site and shop there. 
• Be safe and expect better, but plan for problems; those around you will appreciate it.

* * *

Just a reminder: if you plan on buying anything through Amazon, please consider using our referral link. When you do, a portion of the sale comes back here to help keep this site running!

 

If you have comments, suggestions or corrections, please post them so we all can learn. And remember, Some Is Always Better Than None!

NOTE: All items tested were purchased by me. No products have been loaned in exchange for a favorable review. Any items sent to me for T&E will be listed as such. Suck it Feds.

Bike Time Is Near!

The dust has settled and the First 72 Hours have passed. Follow along as I build a long term plan via Prudent Prepping.

Decent weather will be here very soon, but that doesn't mean you should ignore motorcycles until you put away your sweaters. One thing I was told before I even had a license was "Look for and count motorcycles when you're driving around. That way, you'll have a good chance of always seeing motorcycles when you start driving on your own."

I was able to talk to a California Highway Patrol motorcycle officer at my local bike shop late last year, and I asked him if he rides on his own time. He said yes, but not as much as before due to what he sees on the job. He said in accidents where the biker wasn't 100% at fault (such as single bike accident, speeding, bad lane changes, etc.) 75% of accidents between a car and a motorcycle, the car driver always says "I didn't see the bike!" 

To me that says some bad things about about the bike rider. Do we have lights on? Are we riding so as to be seen as easily as possible? Are we riding with enough space front and back to give us 'bail out' space? Can you see the driver in their mirrors? Yes, I know, those seem to be as often ignored as turn signals on the Interstates. 

YouTube, Instagram and TikTok seem to be lacking videos of bikers riding the speed limit, following traffic laws and not auditioning as stunt riders for the next Mad Max movie. Now this isn't to say that I don't ride faster than the posted speed limit; I certainly do, and I drive faster that that in my car also. I also live where filtering at a stop is allowed and lane splitting is legal. What I don't do, and what I don't recommend, is splitting lanes when traffic is flowing well and at a double digit percentage of the surrounding traffic.

In short, we bikers have a responsibility to be cautious driver and to make ourselves as visible as possible (and I'm not talking enough reflective tape to look like a crime scene). This is as much for our own safety as it is to be good examples. 

On To More Fun Things

I am 100% a fair weather rider, and I embrace that label, so if there's the chance of rain my bike is parked. I do carry some waterproof gear with me, because here in North California the coast can be foggy and damp even in summer, let along the random rain in the Sierras. What I pack are Frogg Toggs Men's Ultra-Lite2 Waterproof Breathable Rain Suit.

https://amzn.to/3v2Lnog

From the Amazon ad:

• WATERPROOF – Made with frogg toggs breathable, non-woven fabric that is waterproof, wind resistant and extremely lightweight. Perfect for light use when reliable waterproof protection is necessary. ASTM F1695 protection and blood penetration rated 
• RAIN SUIT – Jacket and Pant included. The unique Polypropylene material provides an excellent, affordable, and reliable rain wear option 
• FEATURES – Jacket features and adjustable hood with cord locks, full front zipper with storm flap and elastic cuffs. Pant features and elastic waist, straight leg design and stuff sack that fit s both pant and jacket 
• USES – The Ultra Lite2 Rainsuit compresses easily and is perfect for backpackers, stadium seats, sports sidelines, golf bags, emergency kits or anywhere a lightweight rain suit is needed. The Ultra Lite is not designed for rugged use, wandering through brambles or areas where sharp objects could tear. For these uses we recommend you look at other frogg toggs Rain Suits for rugged use 
• SINCE 1996 - frogg toggs has endeavored to provide the world’s best rainwear, waders, cooling products, footwear and accessories at the best possible prices

I like this rain suit not only for how it's made, but also how it's packaged. Previously I had a generic, inexpensive rain jacket that came in a plastic envelope that I kept in my saddle bags all the time. That was a mistake, as rubbing around unsecured wore a hole in the package as well as the jacket. Frogg Toggs come in a very heavy plastic/vinyl package, and I'm not sure that I want to try them on since the set is folded up so nicely and I don't think I could get them back into the package! I do know they will fit, though, as a friend has a set and he is the same build as myself.

Safety Equipment

In my last post, I mentioned the first aid gear that I carry in my car and on my bike, the Adventure Medical Kits Trauma Pak First Aid Kit with QuikClot Sponge and the bigger North American Rescue Mini First Aid Kit. To keep them together and easy to grab I've hooked them together with a small zip tie.

The zip tie is barely visible.

I'm still working on how to secure everything in the saddle bags to prevent wear and tear, so as the weather gets better I'll hopefully work out a decent answer!

Recap and Takeaway

• The only thing I haven't reviewed previously are the Frogg Toggs, and the folks who own them all swear by the quality at that price point.
• Frogg Toggs were purchased from Amazon for $19.99 with Prime.
• Adventure Medical Kits and N.A.R. Kits are items I can't recommend any higher. You can certainly get better, more detailed kits, but you will be spending more that what you see here.
• One Adventure Medical Kit was also purchased from Amazon for $25.97 with Prime.
• One North American Rescue Kit was purchased directly from N.A.R. for $108.69, and I believe the price has gone up from when I bought my last one.

Stay safe on the road, everyone, and keep your heads on a swivel.

 

* * *

Just a reminder: if you plan on buying anything through Amazon, please consider using our referral link. When you do, a portion of the sale comes back here to help keep this site running!

 

If you have comments, suggestions or corrections, please post them so we all can learn. And remember, Some Is Always Better Than None!

NOTE: All items tested were purchased by me. No products have been loaned in exchange for a favorable review. Any items sent to me for T&E will be listed as such. Suck it Feds.

Some "Must Have" Pack Items

The dust has settled and the First 72 Hours have passed. Follow along as I build a long term plan via Prudent Prepping.

These are some of the things that are really high on my list of "Must Have" items. All of these items are in my Get Home Bag and in the bag Purple Pack Lady has in her car. In no way is this the most thorough, amazing set of items; they're just what fell out of my bag as I was switching out some smashed energy bars, and inspired this article. 

AA/AAA 4 Cell Battery Case/Holder 

I have previously used a much larger battery storage box, but due to a change of circumstances I've gone back to a much smaller set of boxes for my standard batteries. These fit into any size pouch or side pocket, and I like how the latch is reasonably positive for a simple box. I also like how the colors show up well in low light, and even the clear box is easy to find!

https://amzn.to/3OCh4v2

From the Amazon ad:

• Package included:4 pcs of battery cases
• Convenient and intuitive to use, can combine in row
• Holds either 4 AA or 4 AAA rechargeable batteries
• Colors: Clear, Pink , Blue, Green
• Batteries are not included.

Adventure Medical Kits Trauma Pak with QuikClot

One of the first First Aid items I bought to go into my GHB after a basic kit full of band-aids was this handy pouch right here. I've had one in my work gear for several years now, and actually used the gauze and QuikClot once, even though it probably wasn't necessary for how big the cut was.   

https://amzn.to/498WBWS

From the Amazon ad: 

• Includes QuikClot gauze, trauma pad, triangular bandage, and other key supplies for your trauma kit
• Nonallergenic QuikClot first aid gauze speeds up natural clotting and stops bleeding within minutes
• Used by hospitals, EMS/first responders, military, law enforcement, general public & outdoorsman
• Fits perfectly in any first aid kit, suture kit, medical kit, iFAK pouch, EDC pouch & survival kits
• Travel safely with QuikClot in your car first aid kit, camping essentials & backpack emergency kit

You can see a more detailed description of contents, and a very nice video showing what is included in the pouch, by following the link to the Amazon listing. 

North American Rescue Mini First Aid Kit 

While this isn't what many would call a starter Individual First Aid Kit, if I were to try buying all these bits and pieces separately they would certainly cost a lot more than the kit itself. I keep one of these and the Adventure Medical pouch above, in my work supplies and another in my motorcycle saddle bags with a mini zip-tie through the pouch top and the kit carry handle to make pulling them out fast and easy. 

As my fellow bloggers have mentioned over the years, North American Rescue makes very high quality equipment that isn't cheap. This leads to a problem when shopping for their gear: counterfeit goods sold with the NAR logo. I was pointed to this website for a nice writeup on how to tell the fake from real NAR tourniquets, but the short answer is "expect to pay no less than $30-$40 for a genuine NAR CAT tourniquet". 

https://www.narescue.com/outdoor-adventure-products/medical-kits/m-fak-mini-first-aid-kit-red.html

   From the website:

• NAR's most compact, versatile Mini First Aid Kit
• Contains the First Responder's most requested critical point-of-wounding medical equipment for treating penetrating, blast or other traumatic injuries in the line of duty
• Super compact, rugged nylon platform that allows attachment both vertically (MOLLE backing) and horizontally (3 in. belt loop)
• Clam shell configuration utilizes (2) two main sleeves that open on both ends for easy access
• Multiple elastic loops for secure gear organization
• Vertical mount can be set to open left-to-right or right-to-left based on shooter preference
• Horizontal mount on a belt allows opening directly to your C-A-T. tourniquet

Kit Contents:

• 1 x C-A-T (Combat Application Tourniquet) Orange
• 1 x 4 in. Flat Responder ETD
• 1 x NAR Wound Packing Gauze
• 1 x HyFin Vent Compact Chest Seal, Twin Pack
• 1 x Pair, Responder Nitrile Gloves, Large

Dimensions:

• L 6 in. x W 3 in. x D 3 in.
• Weight: 13 oz

Some Closing Thoughts

Even in the middle of winter it's a good time to go through your gear and see what might be out of date (first aid cream, pain relivers, etc.), what is damaged or broken (my energy bars), and what might need recharging or fresh batteries, like flashlights.

After being reminded by seeing the IFAK, I looked through the paperwork in my wallet and saw that it's time to go back to the Red Cross and re-up my First Aid training. During Covid, no one was doing classes for the general public and a blogger didn't qualify for special treatment. If my work would have certified it was necessary I could have gone, but no such luck.

Stay safe and expect the best, but plan for less that that!

* * *

Just a reminder: if you plan on buying anything through Amazon, please consider using our referral link. When you do, a portion of the sale comes back here to help keep this site running!

 

If you have comments, suggestions or corrections, please post them so we all can learn. And remember, Some Is Always Better Than None!

NOTE: All items tested were purchased by me. No products have been loaned in exchange for a favorable review. Any items sent to me for T&E will be listed as such. Suck it Feds.

Any Time Prepping Gifts

The dust has settled and the First 72 Hours have passed. Follow along as I build a long term plan via Prudent Prepping.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, my second post with suggestions for Christmas presents wasn't able to be written in time. This is what I wanted to post, with several more suggestions to come for either building a bag (of any type) or adding to your gear.

Rite In The Rain Notebook

This is just one of the styles and colors available from Rite In The Rain that I have purchased. Since I'm redoing several bags, I'm buying 3 packs to save a little money and to have uniform colors for the same objects in each location.  

I can't recommend these notebooks enough for everyone to place in your bags, purse, car door pocket or even pants back pocket. You can choose a top spiral, side spiral, hard cover, in 3" x 5", 5" x 7", 2" x 3 3/4", in yellow, orange, black, blue and tan. 

https://amzn.to/3RWHKaC

From the Amazon ad:

• WEATHERPROOF PAPER: 100 pages / 50 sheets per pocket notepad. All-weather paper won’t turn to mush when wet and will repel water, sweat, grease, mud, and even survive the accidental laundry mishap. Make sure your pocket notebook stays RIGHT in the Rain.
• WIRE-O BINDING: Tough impact-resistant Wire-O binding won't lose its shape in your back pocket or backpack. Unlike a standard spiral notebook, Wire-O keeps your open pages aligned and intact.
• WRITE IN THE RAIN: When wet, use a standard #2 pencil or an all-weather pen. Standard ballpoints and permanent markers will work when paper is dry. Water-based inks will bead or wash off Rite in the Rain Paper.
• WATERPROOF NOTEBOOK COVER: Polydura material creates a tough but flexible outer shell. Whether you're needing a hiking journal, outfitting your police gear, starting a golf journal, or just keeping a shower notebook, the Polydura Cover material will defend your field notes from scratches and stains.

Did you know that they also make tactical range cards? Paired with a Rite In The Rain pen or pencil (with optional red lead refill), you are set for taking notes and kicking something in any weather.  

Anker Portable Charger, Power Bank, 20,000mAh Battery Pack

This is another triple purchase item for me. I take one with me to work, there's one sitting beside me right now, and the Purple Pack Lady is supposed to have one either in her car or in her purse. (No comment as to the actual location.)

I no longer need a backup this big for my job, but the size is handy for topping off everyone's phones or giving my laptop an almost 50% charge.

https://amzn.to/3RRRyCU

From the Amazon ad:

• Ultra-High Cell Capacity: The massive 20,000mAh cell capacity provides more than 5 charges for iPhone XS, almost 5 full charges for Samsung Galaxy S10, more than 4 charges for iPhone 11, and over 2 and a half charges for iPad mini 5.
• Advanced Charging Technology: Anker's exclusive PowerIQ and VoltageBoost technology combine to deliver an optimized charge to your devices, while the trickle-charging mode is the best way to charge low-power accessories.
• Simultaneous Charging: Twin USB ports allow you to charge two devices at the same time. The USB-C port cannot charge other devices.
• Versatile Recharging: With both a USB-C and Micro USB input port, you have more options over how you recharge. Recharging PowerCore with a 10W charger will take approximately 10.5 hours, while recharging with a 5W charger will take approximately 20 hours.
• What You Get: Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K), Micro USB cable (to charge the power bank), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service. (USB-C cable, Lightning cable, and wall charger not included)

Finally, a note regarding the Streamlight Pocket Mate I mentioned in my previous post: I now need to order another light (or possibly 3-4) as my wonderful sister now has the red version on her keychain. This, after I purchased a pink model to give to the Purple Pack Lady to reclaim the red one. I'm a really easy push-over.

https://amzn.to/46UQB26

(Editrix's note: One of our readers wrote in to say the following --

Since I couldn't quickly find an email link for David Blackard on the BCP site, please tell him that the "Streamlight Pocket Mate" has been the Christmas hit of my friend circle. I'm consistently seeing the guys fiddling with them during our gaming sessions, those whose wives haven't already stolen theirs from them. The damn things are crazy bright and pocket friendly.

Furthermore, our own Lokidude has confessed that he bought his wife a different model of Streamlight (a USB MicroStream) to prevent her from taking his. 

Moral of the story: cute Streamlights are irresistible to women.)

* * *

Just a reminder: if you plan on buying anything through Amazon, please consider using our referral link. When you do, a portion of the sale comes back here to help keep this site running!

 

If you have comments, suggestions or corrections, please post them so we all can learn. And remember, Some Is Always Better Than None!

NOTE: All items tested were purchased by me. No products have been loaned in exchange for a favorable review. Any items sent to me for T&E will be listed as such. Suck it Feds.

Prepper Presents: the Budget List

The dust has settled and the First 72 Hours have passed. Follow along as I build a long term plan via Prudent Prepping. 

In the almost ten years(!) that I've been writing here, there have been so many items to be added to a Budget Gift List that I'm having a hard time narrowing down what to feature here. To make life easier for me I'm going to list what folks have told me are their favorites.

Streamlight Pocket Mate

I bought this as a test item, but when the box was opened the Purple Pack Lady said, "OHHH, I like that! Thank you Honey! You are so good to me, Honey!" which I have learned means "This is now mine, and don't even think of getting it back, okay?" when translated from wife-speak to man-speak.

https://amzn.to/46UQB26

From the Amazon page:

• No Standalone lithium batteries are sold with the product
• Bright white LED with high and low mode: High: 325 lumens; 76m beam; runs 20 minutes Low: 45 lumens; 28m beam; runs 1 hour
• Spring-loaded clip with carabiner shape hangs cleanly on key rings, zippers, lanyards, etc
• Conveniently charges via USB power source, Lithium polymer battery charges in 4 hours
• Multi-function push-button switch with charger indicator LED: Red = charging; Green = charged

The light is very useful, puts out more than enough light to see where you are walking, and has what I really think is a fantastic feature: a color-change recharging and charged indicator.

https://amzn.to/46UQB26

Hatori LED Mini Flashlight
I've mentioned these several different times as one of my favorite lights, not only for their size but also for the amount of light this tiny flashlight produces! One of these sits in each of my first aid kits, regardless if there are other lights around or not, so that I always know there will be a light handy.

https://amzn.to/3RgtwkH

From the Amazon page: 

• Ultra Bright: This mini penlight gives out max 150 lumens. Super bright in a dark or lit room and lasts quite two hours with moderate use(keep on) on just one alkaline battery(not included), sufficient to light your way and light small dark spaces.
• Pocket Size: This flashlight is small and light enough to slip into a pocket, backpack or purse. Super Mini size is lightweight and small enough for EDC and fits in the palm of your hand. Only weighting about 30g.
• Clip on Flashlight: With a clip, the pen light could also be used as cap light for your convenience. Easy to clip to your belt, remove it if you don't need it.
• Skid-Proof Water-Resistant Design: Suitable for cycling, hiking, camping and other outdoor activities. Our flashlight set is made of high quality 6061T aluminum alloy with no worried using in rain, snow or emergency situations.
• Safe and Warranty Guarranteed: High-Efficiency and Great Output LED Chip with over charging protection, short circuit protection and reverse connected protection. All of Hatori Flashlights has 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE and NO HASSLE 90-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE.

The Amazon link is to the four-pack of lights. If you're like me, there's always someone you know that can use a really good $5 flashlight!

Nitecore MH11 
This is definitely not what most would call a budget light, but it came so highly recommended that I need to include it. 

https://amzn.to/3NirvmM

From the Amazon page:

• COMPACT EDC FLASHLIGHT - Nitecore MH11 is capable of 1000 lumen beam that throws 207 yards in distance. Ideal for edc, at only 5 inch long and 4 oz weight including battery.
• USB-C RECHARGEABLE - fast charged via the built-in USB-C port on the side of the flashlight. The power indicator tells you the battery status and reminds you to recharge.
• EASY TO OPERATE - full-press the tail switch to turn the light on and off while half-pressing to cycle through 4 brightness levels. Even remembers the brightness set.
• PREMIUM QUALITY - built with tough aero grade aluminum and given an HA III finish. Rated IP68 waterproof and 1m impact resistant, MH11 can take a beating in the toughest environment.
• POWER BUNDLE: MH11 flashlight, NL1826 (pre-installed), NL1834 (backup), USB-C charging cable, holster, lanyard, clip, LumenTac organizer

I have an older, now-discontinued Nitecore flashlight and this is the closest replacement to it in size, lumens, and ease of charging. My original came with a combination AC and car charger for the included batteries, but since everything seems to have a USB-C port now I will continue to recommend this one!

Rite in the Rain Weatherproof Clicker Pen
Everyone needs to write a note sometimes, and when the times are strange, having a pen that will write through anything can be a lifesaver. Paired with Rite in the Rain Notebooks (which I will discuss in my next post), these are included in every bag I have, plus in the cars and bike saddle bag. 

https://amzn.to/3t3fb3d

From the Amazon page:

• WRITES THROUGH: The permanent ink writes through water, grease, and mud without clumping or smearing.
• PRESSURIZED CARTRIDGE: All-Weather cartridge is manufactured in the USA by Fisher Pen Company. The pressurized ink writes in temperatures from -30F to 250F, under water (up to 35 ft), and any angle.
• PROPRIETARY INK: The ink and delivery system used exclusively in Rite in the Rain Refills will write without skipping in extremely wet conditions far better than other comparable weatherproof pens.
• INK DELIVERY: Tiny pockets in the pen's tip will deliver ink in the worst conditions without allowing water or air back into the Cartridge.
• RITE IN THE RAIN NOTEBOOKS: The most ideal pen for Rite in the Rain Weatherproof Notebooks.

I like the lighter-colored body, which (to me) makes this easier to see in low light or in the dark.

Sea to Summit Alpha Camping Cutlery Set
Since I bring my own food to work many days, I carry a set of my own utensils with me because expecting the store-supplied plastic forks to actually do a good job is a bet I don't like to take.

https://amzn.to/3ReVjSD

From the Amazon page:

• Durable aluminum cutlery set for camping, backpacking, boating or picnics
• Set includes serrated knife, fork, spoon, and mini carabiner to keep set together
• Hard-anodized aluminum with smooth matte finish is tough and lightweight for lifelong use
• Each piece has a hexagonal hole (3mm, 4mm or 5mm) in the handle which can be used as a wrench for stove repair
• Each utensil measures just over size inches, and set weighs 37g; hand wash (should not be washed in a dishwasher)

The reason these shouldn't be washed in a dishwasher is because, per the manufacturer, "the cleanser used in dishwashers will damage the anodization."


These are just a few of the many things I could list, but for a starter set of cool additions, I'd be happy to get any of them!

* * *

Just a reminder: if you plan on buying anything through Amazon, please consider using our referral link. When you do, a portion of the sale comes back here to help keep this site running!

 

If you have comments, suggestions or corrections, please post them so we all can learn. And remember, Some Is Always Better Than None!

NOTE: All items tested were purchased by me. No products have been loaned in exchange for a favorable review. Any items sent to me for T&E will be listed as such. Suck it Feds.

Prepper's Hygiene: Cremo Shave Cream for your BOB

The dust has settled and the First 72 Hours have passed. Follow along as I build a long term plan via Prudent Prepping. 

I don't do many Product Tests outside of camping or prepping related gear, but this is one of those times, as this product is in my Get Home Bag and in the Bug Out Bag pile of stuff that will go into the trunk of the car. I've written about having several personal care items, like toothpaste and a very good liquid soap, in my BOB. When I was younger and single, shaving every day wasn't so important, and when hiking or camping I didn't shave. a at all. Now that I'm older, not single anymore, and The Purple Pack lady has sensitive skin, shaving has become more important to me so I have Cremo Barber Grade Original Shave Cream in my preps. 

https://amzn.to/3szR1wX

 

 From the Amazon ad:

• Impossibly slick formula fights nicks, irritation and razor burn
• Gives you a close, comfortable shave
• Original formula with a subtle citrus scent
• 90-day supply, which lasts longer than average shave cream/gel
• Rich and concentrated cream made with high quality ingredients including Macadamia Seed Oil, Aloe, Calendula Extract, Lemon Extract, Papaya Extract, and Olive Leaf Extract. Paraben Free. Not tested on animals

I was pointed to this brand several years ago by a fellow sales rep when I forgot to pack whatever can of goo I was using at the time. I was converted that week to this wonderful product. I've tried many different brands, from aerosols to other tube-type creams, and this is my favorite. 

What makes this so different, and in my opinion a superior aid to shaving? Several points:

1. Since this is a non-aerosol, you can put it in your carry-on bag.
2. A 6oz. tube can last several months.
3. You don't need to use very much per shave; no more than an almond-sized squeeze will work just fine for the average male face. 

One thing I do need to mention is that your face needs to be wet for Cremo to spread evenly. I mean really wet, to the point of "water dripping off it" wet. To use it, I put the hottest water I can stand on the area to be shaved for 30 seconds to one minute, then squeeze out the needed amount and spread evenly on my skin. 

I find that wetting my hands several times helps to get everything smoothed out well. Since there isn't a 3/8" layer of foam on your skin, putting a little water on your fingers and re-activating Creamo ahead of your next area to shave helps to prevent razor burn. When I'm out of town and not directly responsible for the utility bills, I shave in the shower, which helps keep my skin wet and the Cremo smooth. 

Another difference from traditional canned shaving creams is that Cremo doesn't foam or fluff up when applied, but instead gets sort of slippery as more water is added. Since it isn't fluffy, you'll need to rinse your razor more than you normally think is needed. I use a Schick razor and my beard is not heavy by any measure,  but the razor needs to be rinsed 5-6 times while shaving.

I can't recommend this shave cream any higher than to say that my wife borrows it and keeps a travel size tube in her makeup kit!

Recap and Takeaway

• Look at this shave cream if you aren't satisfied with your current brand and look at the whole family of products. I'm not sure a Mango shave cream is necessary, but it is your choice and your money! I stick with the original version, as certain fragrances and chemicals give me a rash.
• The original scent is available in 1oz and 6oz sizes. Sorry, everything else is 6 oz only.
• Purchased a 6 oz tube of Cremo Barber Grade Original Formula from Amazon, $6.99 with Prime. (Actually I buy a 2 pack, since I know how it works!)

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If you have comments, suggestions or corrections, please post them so we all can learn. And remember, Some Is Always Better Than None!

NOTE: All items tested were purchased by me. No products have been loaned in exchange for a favorable review. Any items sent to me for T&E will be listed as such. Suck it Feds.