(Dear mods: not sure if this is primitive enough to be in this section, if you think it ought to be moved, my apologies)
I've always been interested in the idea of going camping with less-than-modern techniques, and recently started my journey that way by camping in single digit temperatures with modern stoves, lighting, and shelter, but non-modern clothing. By non-modern, I mean wearing primarily wool and flannel, no synthetics, no waterproof shells (other than a trenchcoat I oiled myself) and no rubber except the soles of my boots. I found myself quite comfortable in that environment even though I was the only person in my group without a parka, and now I'm curious to see how I can further delve into older methods. The next step in my mind is bedrolls. I have only gone camping without a tent a handful of times, and those were in very mild temperatures.
For some background, the bedroll I plan on using is one (or two, depending on weather) rough-grade wool blankets, one merino-wool blanket, one tarp (I'll use my synthetic tarp for now, but I'd like to get a lightweight canvas one eventually) for rainfly purposes, and my oiled trenchcoat for a groundcloth to cover the (presumably pokey) debris mattress I'll make on site. In addition, I'm going to try to have all of my gear either in the bedroll itself or on my belt, and go "old-school lightweight". The environments I plan on camping in are upland forest/temperate rainforest in my area, temperatures ranging from below freezing to 95 degrees, depending on the time of year.
Assuming I'm smart about how I dress, will this setup work well in all of these environments? How does it suit for ease/comfort of carry? What are the major advantages and disadvantages? Your thoughts/experience/advice with this technique are much appreciated.
Bookmarks