The Top May Long Weekend Sales on Camping Gear

I got an early Helinox Chair One sample years ago to review when it was first released. After using it, I quickly went out and bought another one for my wife at full-retail. More than a decade later, we are still using both of those chairs when we go camping. The point of this little walk down memory lane is to drive home the level of quality, durability, and comfort of the Helinox Chair One. Ok, now that we have that out of the way, let’s look at the chair’s specs. In its packed form, the Chair One is just slightly larger than a 1.5 l wide-mouth Nalgene water bottle and weighs just under a kilogram. This means you can toss the chair in with your regular camping gear and not worry about excessive weight and having enough space. The chair, when deployed, can hold up to 145 kg, and thanks to its mesh-panel construction avoids sweat build-up even when used in warm conditions. Seriously, just get one (or two). You won’t be disappointed.

With its 400-lumen maximum light output, the Spot 400 is perfect for use around camp or for approaching backcountry routes before sunrise. The headlamp features six light settings and also has a unique PowerTap feature that allows you to jump to the brightest mode with one touch. A simple two-button control system simplifies cycling through the various brightness and beam options, and the three-bar power gauge takes the guesswork out of when you need to change batteries. Speaking of batteries, the Spot 400 is compatible with three AAA batteries as well as a rechargeable Black Diamond Li-ion battery.

The Camalot C4 cams have become industry standards for a good reason; they work. They may not be the lightest cams, but their time-tested dual-axle construction provides solid holding power and surprising expansion range. The current design has been refined, resulting in a 10 percent reduction in weight and improved ergonomics (trigger bar) when compared to previous versions. The three largest sizes (#4, #5, #6) now come with a trigger keeper that keeps the lobes retracted for easy racking, and can be quickly disengaged when placing the cam. Throw in a chunky 19 mm nylon sling, and you have one of the most durable and versatile cams available today.

This Pack Away Sun Cap provides UPF 50+ sun protection and, thanks to its DWR treatment, can also shed light rain, making it significantly more versatile than other similar-looking caps. The Pack Away also features a unique hidden compartment in the crown that allows you to stuff the cap in this pocket. The svelte package can now be tucked away in a jacket or pack pocket, ready for deployment when the weather demands. This is a simple and highly versatile cap that should be in every climber’s and camper’s kit.

Built with a fabric that consists of 94% recycled nylon with 6% elastane, the Mantra pants deliver the durability and easy movement required on challenging climbs. While the fabric has some built-in stretch, the addition of a gusseted crotch and articulated knees further enhance the Mantra’s range of movement. Sportiva specs elastic cuffs at the ankles ensuring climbers can see their feet on delicate, technical routes. At the waist, Sportiva employs a wide low-profile elastic waistband that fits unobtrusively beneath a harness. Finally, the addition of contrasting colour panels add a splash of style and whimsy to these thoroughly performance-oriented pants. Whether you are climbing, hiking, or just lounging around camp, the Mantra pants are ready for the task.

Backpacking and minimalist mountaineering tents are great if you are counting grams or want to summit a remote peak, but for more casual climbing and camping, especially with young kids or a dog, consider the Habiscape 4-Person Tent. Featuring a generous footprint (2.41m x 2.41m) and a 1.85m internal peak height, the Habiscape is a palatial sleeping and living space for up to four people. And unlike smaller tents, the Habiscape is tall enough to let you stand up while changing clothes; no more wriggling like a worm on the floor when you’re putting on your pants. The roomy interior also makes the Habiscape an ideal shelter if you have to wait out the inevitable spring and summer showers. For such a roomy tent, the Habiscape sets up quickly thanks to its easy-to-use 7000-series aluminum pole and clip system. MSR has also engineered this tent frame design to shrug off typical blustery three-season conditions, ensuring the Habiscape’s occupants are protected against unexpected storms. Other details worth noting include mesh panels for ventilation, substantial waterproof coatings that ensure occupants and gear stay dry, and two doors (one with a generous vestibule) to simplify late-night bathroom runs. Sure, the tent may cost more than similarly-sized department store offerings, but you can rest easy knowing that Habiscape will keep you and your family dry and comfortable in almost any condition – something lesser tents can’t claim to do. Invest in a Habiscape and leave the claustrophobia-inducing mountaineering tents for the mountains.

Constructed with a sophisticated stretch woven ripstop fabric, the Ferrosi shorts combine function with urban good looks, making them an ideal choice for warm-weather cragging, camping, and casual nights around town. The fabric has plenty of stretch for high-stepping and boulder-hopping, is surprisingly abrasion-resistant, and provides UPF 50+ sun protection. These versatile technical shorts are a great way to update your summer wardrobe. Grab a pair, or two.

Female climbers seeking a rugged and supportive trail shoe will love the Moraine. The shoe’s unique construction ensures the Moraine is light enough for day hikes and short approaches while offering stability and control when the trail becomes more challenging. A waterproof/breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable in wet conditions, while the sophisticated midsole absorbs impacts and provides protection from rocks and roots. For traction, Scarpa employs a Presa outsole for consistent performance in wet, dry, or loose conditions.

Climbers carrying heavier packs on challenging trails will appreciate the support, traction and weather protection offered by Kailash Trek Gore-Tex boots. Constructed with a suede upper with strategically positioned nylon fabric panels, the Kailash Trek does an admirable job of providing support while remaining sufficiently light and agile for technical trail sections. If the weather takes a turn for the worse the boot’s Gore-Tex lining ensures your feet will stay dry. Scarpa has spec’d a polyurethane midsole for exceptional impact absorption, while the Vibram outsole ensures excellent grip in a variety of trail conditions. Handmade in Italy, this is a great boot for anyone seeking greater support without the excessive weight and stiffness of more traditional hiking boots.

Why is camping so popular during the May long weekend?

Camping, whether for a climbing trip or just to get outside, has become a Canadian tradition during the May long weekend for many good reasons. Perhaps the most obvious is that the weather has finally become sufficiently warm during the days and evenings that camping is not the character-building exercise it tends to be in colder conditions. Another important consideration for many Canadians is that black flies and other biting insects are not at their summer peak. This means you can enjoy the outdoors without marinating yourself in DEET – that’s a win. Finally, after a cold and wet winter season, the May long weekend, with its longer daylight hours, signals the real arrival of spring and summer, and the many climbing and camping trips that await.

So, take advantage of this ideal time of year by grabbing some of these great deals, and enjoy the outdoors.

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