Once you've decided to take that long awaited outdoor adventure the first few questions are typically- what gear do we have? What gear do we need? How expensive will it be to buy it all? Should we try and rent when we get there, is that even an option?
This line of questioning is exactly what lead to Xscape Pod's creation. The information below is a detailed description of all of the curated equipment that makes up an Xscape Pod, including technical specs, field test results, and why we like it. And just in case you were wondering, this is our criteria:
Big Agnes Tents: The Blacktail tent series (4 or 2-person) offer spacious sleeping areas for a pair or family of campers. Why we love it - easy access through two, side-entry doors and vestibules makes climbing over your tent mate for an early morning bathroom run a thing of the past.
Big Agnes Sleeping Pad and Bag: The redesigned Air Core Ultra is a smooth and stable sleeping surface, easier and faster to inflate/deflate, warmer, tougher, lighter, and more pack-able than its award winning predecessor. Big Agnes System bags with FireLine™ ECO synthetic insulation offer a roomy, rectangle-shaped sleeping space with an integrated Flex Pad Sleeve on the bottom. With technical fabrics and construction, 100% recycled, super-warm insulation, and tons of comfort features, these comfortable sleeping bags are designed to be lightweight enough for backpacking but cozy enough you'll want them in the campground too. Why we love it - The Flex Pad Sleeve unites easily with your pad, and as you change positions over the course of the night, will keep you from rolling off your pad.
Helinox Chairs: You’ll always have a place at the table (and everywhere else) with our original, award-winning CHAIR ONE. Smaller and lighter than a bottle of wine, this durable seat is just what you need for your next outdoor adventure. It features a lightweight (2.1 lbs), compact (4”x 4"x 14" in its case) and durable design that holds up to 320 lbs. Why we love it - it's perfect for car camping and light enough to fit in your backpack, one of our absolute favorite pieces of gear.
Leatherman Multi-tools: More than just a pocketknife, this is 14 tools in one. Why we love it - for the weight and size you can't beat this accessory - you never know when you're going to need a knife, scissors, screwdriver, bottle opener, pliers... you get the idea!
Mountainsmith Soft Cooler: Keep your beverages cold and stay organized on your next camping trip or tailgate party with the Mountainsmith Deluxe Cooler Cube. Ripstop fabrics ensure it's tough enough to handle outdoor excursions, PE foam insulation helps food and drink stay frosty, and the PEVA seam-sealed lining prevents melt water from leaking out. It also has a fold-down cup holder that can stow four cans, and two mesh water bottle pockets on the sides secure any extra beverages. Toting this drink-erator is easy with the adjustable haul handles that convert to shoulder straps. Why we love it - packs down small and the cup holder fold out can hold four open beers at once, what else can one person ask for?
Osprey Backpacks: With enough space for multi-day trips or longer trails with re-supply's, the Rook 65 provides smart organization and the included rain cover keeps your pack dry in a sudden rain shower. Why we love it - Osprey packs distribute weight more evenly than any other pack system we've tried, period.
Petzl Headlamps: Whether you’re in need of light at the campsite or on the trails, the Petzl Tikka Headlamp gets the job done. Why we love it - lightweight, compact and easy to travel with, the Tikka boasts a water resistant design for those rainy days, and with multiple settings, this light source provides versatility. From the campground to the next task, the Tikka 200 lights the way with bright LED technology.
BioLite Lanterns: The BioLite PowerLight Mini gives off a soft white light that won't blind your friends and keeps you visible on dark trails and around the campsite. It includes three lighting modes: edge-lit lantern, red night mode, and flash/strobe. Why we love it - the rechargeable battery with USB charge in/out provides a boost to your gear. We include a USB-to-micro-USB charging cable too with your rental so you're never left in the dark.