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Tent on Brick

A few weeks ago I came across a small, lightweight tent for $15 at Big Lots. Big Lots is quite the amazing store. They rarely stock the same thing twice - at least you shouldn't bet on it. However, if you are patient, you can often find that exact thing you have been looking for - and for half the price (or less) than most other stores!

I passed up the tent when I first saw it, and in fact the second time. When I finally gathered the nerve to buy it, it was gone. I went to three different Big Lots in search of the famed Tent of Tragillion, but it was nowhere to be found.

Eddie Bauer Mess Kit (and Brick)

Just yesterday I was out and about running some errands. I stopped by Big Lots to look for a water hose and decided to look in the outdoor section one more time, just for old time's sake. And there it was: Tragillion. I grabbed like Mr. Rickety-Remus might (just made him up, he doesn't exist). Now it's mine! The reason the tent appealed to me in the first place is: 1) of course, the cheap price tag of $15, and 2) it is really small and lightweight, perfect for backpacking. Whenever possible I am trying to round up backpacking essentials on a budget. Rather than going to REI and paying full price (times sixty-eight to the power of nine hundred), I'm finding bargains here and there. I also recently bought a nice aluminum Eddie Bauer Mess Kit from guess where... that's right, Big Lots ($10)!

Here is my backpacking wish-list (just in case the Big Wigs at Big Lots are reading):

  • Fuel for the stove
  • Fairly well rated (like 30 degrees or below), lightweight, small packable sleeping bag
  • Adequate LED headlamp
  • Lightweight digging spade (like a small gardening shovel)
  • Self-inflating foam pad
  • Water filter/purifier
  • Collapsible nylon? water bucket
  • Compass

I know, it sounds pathetic that I don't already have those things. Up until now I have mostly relied on my good friend Dave and his supply of gear. I have my own pack (very nice), a water system, and now a tent and mess kit. Woo hoo, I'm getting closer! Big Lots, don't let me down!

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