Snowys Camping Show

Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

Stumped for stocking stuffers? Banking on something brilliant? The ultimate outdoor gift guide just dropped... Ben and Lauren unwrap Snowys' 2025 Christmas lineup, from compact coffee makers to game-changing gadgets that'll have outdoor enthusiasts buzzing. Our gear gurus explore everything lightweight and practical from BioLite lighting solutions, Tiegear essentials, and JetBoil speed to luxury picks like portable air conditioners and Quest Air Sofas that redefine camping comfort. The conversation covers 12V appliances, cooler options for every adventure style, reversing cameras, headlamp heroes from Petzl to Hardkorr, and the entire KickAss gadget arsenal. Whether you're shopping for coffee connoisseurs, tech enthusiasts, or families ready to hit the trail, tune in for gift inspiration that goes beyond the camping clichés! 00:00 - Intro 01:20 - Christmas Inspiration in 2025 04:10 - Christmas Gift Ideas 04:34 - BioLite Luci Lanterns, String Lights, and Site Lights 06:45 - Tiegear Guy Ropes and Pegs 09:19 - 12V Appliances 13:34 - Coleman Pro Can Soft Coolers, Glacier Icebox, and Hard Cooler 16:12 - Cybertake Pro Portable Air Conditioner 18:23 - Oricom Reversing Camera 19:52 - Caribee Kokoda Gear Bag 21:07 - JetBoil Stoves 21:59 - FlexTail Pumps 23:09 - Gasmate Orbiter Portable BBQ 25:11 - Petz, KickAss, OZtrail, Black Diamond, Ledlenser and Hardkorr Headlamps 26:19 - All KickAss Gadgets 28:53 - Quest Air Sofas 30:05 - Companion Roam Series 34:04 - Petrol Usage When Charging 12V Devices 35:07 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

From scorchers to soakers… Ben and Lauren tackle a compilation of listener questions about camping through Australia’s wildly unpredictable conditions, from torrential downpours to sweltering heat waves. Our gear gurus share battle-tested tips for camping in the rain, decode mozzie and wildlife management strategies, and reveal the clothing and equipment choices that actually make a difference across different weather scenarios. The conversation covers preparing gear for humid conditions, staying comfortable, and the practical wisdom that promises manageable adventures. Tune in for how to embrace the forecast on every outdoor adventure – because camping in less-than-perfect conditions is only half the Australian experience. 00:00 – Intro 01:19 – Shout Out to Larry 02:42 – Join the Snowys Club! 04:46 – All-Weather Camping: A Compilation of Q&A’s 5:36 – Tips for Camping in the Rain 07:02 – Managing Mozzies, Pests, & Wildlife 14:53 – Clothing & Equipment for Different Weather 19:58 – Preparing Gear for Muggy Conditions 26:39 – Staying Comfortable in Extreme Heat or Wind 36:33 – Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

From lung-busting manual effort to push-button perfection, Ben and Lauren talk inflation innovation! In this episode, our gear gurus blow through Snowys’ comprehensive pump range from basic manual options to advanced 12V, 240V, and rechargeable powerhouses that handle both inflation and deflation. Be it PSI considerations, comparing compact solutions against mega pump monsters, and decoding the versatility differences that separate budget picks from premium performers – this conversation covers it all. Tune in to this comprehensive guide, designed for anyone who’s had enough of the puff! 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Overview of the Snowys Pump Range 02:23 - Basic Pump Options (Inflation Only) 09:43 - Advanced Pump Options (Inflation and Deflation): 12V and 240V 15:04 - Rechargeable Pump Options 16:53 - Considering PSI 21:24 - Versatility of Rechargeable Pumps 21:48 - Compact Pump Options 29:05 - Mega Pump Options 32:24 - So... What Pumps for What? 34:14 - Zempire Supercell Vs Dometic Gale 37:23 - Valve Types 44:43 - Lauren and Ben's Pumped Up Set-Up 48:56 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

Building campsite communities that actually work together… In this episode of the Snowys Camping Show, Ben and Lauren tackle the art of communal camping, from Zempire’s clever Shape Shifter range built for group gatherings to Lauren’s recent multi-family camping lessons. Our gear gurus cover everything from coordinated trips to creating shared living zones with tarps, gazebos, and heavy-duty shelter solutions. Listen up for the lowdown on how to set up the communal spaces that keep the crew connected, and Ben and Lauren’s take on how to maintain togetherness without the tension. 00:00 – Intro 01:29 – Talking Zempire’s Shape Shifter Range 08:33 – Communal Camping: a ‘Joined’ System 09:58 – Lauren’s Recent Experience with Communal Camping 13:53 – How to Organise a Communal Camping Trip 16:24 – Setting Up for Communal Camping: Shelters and Tarps 19:04 – Gazebos 24:40 – Heavy-Duty Set-Up Options 26:29 – Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

They're our hot weather heroes - fighting the flames and forewarning the community of dangerous conditions. While every state and territory have a rural fire service of their own, Ben and Lauren chat with Phil from the South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) and extinguish any confusion around Fire Ban Seasons. From considerations in campfire cooking, to seeking the right refuge – in this heated throwback episode of the Snowys Camping Show, Phil cools the coals and clarifies all regulations that are relevant to travellers and tourers during the Fire Danger periods. 00:00 – Intro 00:50 – Introducing Phil from the CFS 01:43 – Gas Stove Regulations 04:16 – Travelling During the High Season 08:17 – Radios 09:14 – Protection in Bushfire-Risk Zones 13:08 – Bushfire Refuges 18:04 – Travelling on Foot 20:36 – Identifying a Fire 22:59 – The Fire Ban Season: Unpacked 28:03 – Braziers and Above-Ground Fires 29:20 – Comfort Fires 29:57 – Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Legislation 32:15 – “Gas” Stove Terminology 33:33 – Use of Gas Appliances 35:30 – Generators 37:45 – Induction Cooktops 40:00 – Extinguishing a Fire 45:08 – Find Out More or Get Involved! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

When morning dew hits new heights... Ben and Lauren tackle the challenges of heat and condensation in rooftop tents, touching on how materials, insulation, and ventilation affect your overnight microclimate. Our gear gurus unpack the Inspired Overland Stargazer to illustrate smart design solutions, as well as cover the differences between standard and rooftop tents and the real causes of moisture buildup. Tune in for your guide to staying dry while camping high! Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 01:18 - Condensation While Camping 01:42 - The Inspired Overland Stargazer 03:38 - Addressing Condensation and Heat with Rooftop Tents 04:19 - Insulation 07:05 - Considering Materials for Heat Absorption 07:44 - Choosing When to Camp 08:45 - Standard Tents Vs Rooftop Tents 09:14 - Considering Condensation 12:38 - Causes of and Solutions to Condensation 18:10 - Ventilation 18:50 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

The minimalist movement: rooftop tents cutting weight without compromise Ben and Lauren climb the ladder of the latest lightweight rooftop tent innovations, from 23ZERO's Super Lite range to Inspired Overland's carbon fibre brilliance and Darche's detachable designs. Our gear gurus examine the critical trade-offs between shedding kilos and sacrificing features, explore how new materials and technology are pushing boundaries, and reveal what's coming down the pipeline like Inspired Overland's Trailpeak. From removable features allowing customisable weight versus functionality, to integrated lighting and power points for convenience without bulk - this episode is essential listening for anyone chasing that sweet spot between roof rack-friendly weight and ultimate camping comfort – because sometimes less is more if you're not losing what matters. Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 00:48 - The Latest in Lightweight Rooftop Tents 02:06 - Reflecting on Ep178 03:22 - 23ZERO Dakota Super Lite Rooftop Tent 04:35 - 23ZERO Saber Super Lite Rooftop Tent 05:44 - 23ZERO Saber Vert-X1450 Hard Shell and Super Fly Lightweight Rooftop Tent 07:12 - Lightweight Vs Features: Determining the Trade-Off 08:54 - Inspired Overland XL Lightweight and Carbonlite Rooftop Tent 09:55 - Inspired Overland Stargazer Duo Rooftop Tent 10:49 - Coming Soon: Inspired Overland Trailpeak Rooftop Tent 12:44 - Darche Detachable Rooftop Tent 13:13 - Front Runner Roof Top Tent 13:52 - Inspired Overland Standard and Carbonlite: Removable Features 16:35 - Technology, Materials, and Sacrifices in Lightweight Rooftop Tents 24:00 - Sleeping Gear and Bedding 25:36 - Integrated Lighting, Power Points, and Other Features 26:27 - Final Thoughts 28:08 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

From chaos to cargo control, without feeling tied-down... Ben and Lauren expand on their previous episode, Ep171 - Roof Rack Storage, with a deep dive into the abundance of tubs, bags, containers, and strapping systems that keep your gear tight and together. In that, they discuss cam buckle reliability, and the pros and cons of ratchet straps, bungee cords, and occy straps for different securing scenarios. From hard tubs versus soft storage options and dedicated roof rack-style containers, to settling the age-old debate of straps versus ropes - this episode bears the load. Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 01:07 - A Spin-Off of Ep171: Roof Rack Storage 02:48 - Hard Tubs and Storage Boxes 09:13 - Dedicated Roof Rack-Style Tubs 10:18 - Soft Options and Storage Bags 14:00 - Straps Vs Ropes 14:49 - Ben's Take on Ropes and Knots 17:33 - Cam Buckle Straps 19:57 - Bungee, Occy, and Stretch Straps 14:07 - Ratchet Straps 28:44 - Ben's Recommendation 29:32 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

The shape-shifting camp shelters in the outdoor space as we know it! Ben and Lauren tackle the clever world of shelter systems that adapt to your outdoor adventures and expanding families. Our gear gurus examine setups from the Oztent RV5 to Zempire's tent cities, explore modular brilliance of multi-structure setups, and discuss how investing in foundational tents with smart add-ons beats constantly upgrading your full kit. Tune in for a camper's guide to having gear that grows with you - not dictates your limits! Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 01:49 - Setups That Can Grow With You 06:09 - Ben's Current Setup with the Oztent RV5 09:05 - The BlackWolf Turbo Range 11:05 - Adapting Your Setup Footprint to Suit the Campsite 11:55 - Modular Setups for Fairweather Camping 17:47 - Benefits of Investing in Foundational Tents with Add-Ons 20:58 - The Evolution of Camping Options 24:43 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

From slick family sedans to more rugged rigs, Ben and Lauren discuss how to choose your camping chariot… From Lauren’s efficient car setup to wicked 4WD configurations, our gear gurus explore how different vehicles suit different camping approaches. It’s the practical stuff that matters – payload limits, towing capacity, hidden costs, and listener feedback on everything from wagons to dual-cabs. The conversation includes clever solutions like sedan camping setups and how lightweight rooftop tents are expanding options for smaller vehicles. Tune in for essential, go-to guidance that reveals your ride’s role in camping adventures – and if it can handle your outdoor ambitions! Shortcuts: 00:00 – Intro 02:45 – Hardcore Vehicle Setups 03:40 – Lauren’s Car Camping Setup 07:52 – Considering Your Camping Setup and Style 08:47 – Feedback From Others: Covering 4WDs, Vans, Wagons, Utes, and SUVs 12:01 – Towing a Trailer 13:21 – Considering Payload 18:49 – Katrina’s Grand Sedan Setup! 20:39 – Setups for Efficiency and Accessibility 22:17 – Considering Hidden Costs 24:50 – Ben’s Suggested Starting Point 27:58 – Lightweight Rooftop Tents in SUV Setups 29:12 – 4WD, Wagon, and Dual-Cab Setups 31:40 – Enhancing a Sedan Setup 35:11 – Camping Options for Compact Setups 39:54 – Considering Extension Cords and Power Plugs 41:40 – Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

In the dark about Blockout technology? Ben and Lauren address the great debate dividing the tent world... In this episode, our outdoor experts tackle one of camping's most polarising fabric technologies - blockout coatings that promise pitch-black mornings but deliver heated tent controversies. A camping luxury, or an expensive "solution" to an inevitable aspect of outdoor living? From sleeping soundly through the sunrise to waking in oven-like conditions, and exploring the affect of light-blocking treatments and enhanced materials on durability, waterhead ratings, pack weight, and performance - this conversation covers the science behind fabric coatings, the fundamental tension between ventilation and insulation, and the unbeatable bliss of simply waking up with the sun. Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 01:22 - Blockout Technology 02:19 - Tent Ventilation Vs Insulation 04:37 - Pros of Blockout Technology 06:44 - Cons of Blockout Technology 09:41 - The Impact of Fabric Coatings on Durability and Waterhead Ratings 13:47 - Weight Considerations of Fabric Coatings 15:43 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

The Elite Eight! Our rooftop tent options that elevate every campsite setup… Ben and Lauren scale the heights of rooftop tent excellence, breaking down their top eight picks from powerhouse brands like 23ZERO, Darche, and Inspired Overland. Our gear gurus compare equivalent models across manufacturers, and explore everything from detachable designs to solar-integrated solutions. The conversation covers lightweight alternatives for weight-conscious campers, brands beyond the Snowys shelves, and confessions of their own rooftop tent FOMO! The best elevated sleeping isn’t just about getting off the ground, it’s about not breaking the bank – or your roof racks! Shortcuts: 00:00 – Intro 01:10 – Top Rooftop Tent Brands 03:24 – 23ZERO Rooftop Tents 10:58 – Darche Rooftop Tents\ 18:00 – Darche and 23ZERO’s Equivalent Rooftop Tent Models 19:06 – Inspired Overland Ultralight Rooftop Tents 23:53 – Lightweight Rooftop Tent Alternatives 26:56 – Darche Detachable Rooftop Tent 28:24 – Darche Solar Rooftop Tent 29:45 – Coming Soon From 23ZERO 30:17 – Rooftop Tent Brands Beyond the Snowys Shelves 31:00 – Ben and Lauren’s Rooftop Tent FOMO?! 33:03 – Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

The age-old tent tussle: canvas champions versus synthetic titans... This episode unpacks Ben and Lauren's pitch on a deceptively simple yet loaded question: which out of canvas or synthetic tents are the most superior for various types of outdoor adventuring? Our gear gurus start by laying down the foundation; addressing primary differences in weight, durability, and water resistance, while considering how your camping style influences the best choice. From lighter canvas innovations, keeping natural fibres dry, and the trade-offs between robustness and portability, to why sacrificing features for simplicity might be the ultimate weight-saving strategy - tune in for a comprehensive guide that proves the 'better' tent is simply what suits your style of adventure. 00:00 - Intro 02:23 - Canvas Vs Synthetic Tents: Which Is 'Better'? 03:24 - Primary Differences 04:54 - Canvas Tents: Weight, Durability and Water Resistance 05:55 - Synthetic Tents: Weight, Durability and Water Resistance 06:51 - Types of Camping and Duration of Stay 08:38 - Lighter Canvas 09:10 - Keeping Canvas Dry 09:32 - Best for Longevity and Robustness 10:12 - Best for Lightweight Portability 11:09 - Which Tent Suits What You're Doing? 13:19 - Ben's First Mid-Episode Sneeze! 13:30 - Saving Weight: Sacrificing Features for Simplicity 14:39 - Rooftop Tents 15:11 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

The sleeping bag rebels going rogue on ratings! Ben and Lauren dive into non-EN-rated sleeping bags, explaining why these rating renegades might actually be onto something! Our gear gurus decode what EN standards really tell you (and what they don't), and introduce their very own Snowys rating - focusing on real-world warmth over laboratory perfection. The conversation covers Lauren's field-tested, cold-weather survival tactics, warranty claims that'll leave you out in the cold, and Ben's refreshingly honest take on why some of the best bags don't always boast a certification. Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 01:46 - Sleeping Bags Without an EN Rating 02:56 - EN Ratings: What Are They and What Do They Mean? 06:18 - Contributing Factors to How Well We Sleep 08:40 - The 'Snowys' Rating 09:52 - Reputable Sleeping Bag Brands Without EN Ratings 10:55 - Lauren's Cold-Weather Sleep System 13:45 - Comparing Sleeping Bag Models 15:50 - What's Not A Warranty Claim 16:34 - Ben's Conclusion 17:32 - Being Dynamic With Your Sleep Setup 20:28 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

Your camping comeback: when the great outdoors feels a little too great... Ben and Lauren tackle the daunting prospect of returning to camping, addressing everything from solo adventure anxiety to navigating gear choices with physical limitations and tight budgets. Our gear gurus break down the sleep system essentials that actually matter, decode camp cooking without the complexity, pull up a seat to discuss why your choice of chair can make a difference, and lay everything out on the table about how the ultimate slat-top can elevate your time outdoors. A go-getting, geared-up guide for anyone who's as ready to get out there as they are frozen at the front door - tune in for the conversation that paves the way for your new outdoor mojo! Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 02:17 - The Intimidating Side of Camping Alone 04:01 - Getting Back into Camping as a Beginner with Limitations 07:26 - Sleep Systems: Sleeping Bags and Mattresses 16:11 - Food Storage, Prep, and Cooking 23:13 - Tables 29:04 - Chairs 35:10 - The Two Camp Items Not to Skimp On... 36:04 - Summary 36:41 - Ben's Suggestion For a Tent Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

From forehead tattoos to foolproof roof rack setups... Our podcast playlist is officially racking up with this week's packed-in episode of content that stacks up! First, Lauren asks the million-dollar question that tests Ben's brand loyalty - before our gear gurus tackle the art of roof rack storage without losing your gear to the elements. The conversation covers waterproofing strategies, Ben's personal setup secrets, and his top three tips for keeping everything secure and accessible. Our outdoor experts debate the merits of top-loading versus end-loading waterproof bags, explore different packing philosophies, and prove that there's more than one way to conquer roof rack organisation. Shout it from the roof racks, and tune in for the ultimate guide to practical packing up top! Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 01:08 - Lauren Asks: Would Ben Tattoo a Brand Name on His Forehead for $1M? 04:09 - The Best Way to Stow Gear on Your Roof Rack 04:23 - Waterproofing Gear on a Roof Rack: Is it Possible? 07:05 - Ben's Roof Rack System: Setup and Waterproofing 10:48 - Ben's Top 3 Tips to Roof Rack Storage 11:40 - Top-Loading Vs End-Loading Waterproof Bags 17:27 - There's No Right or Wrong Way... 18:22 - Closing Comments and Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

From shearing sheep and dishing pizza to doorsteps, to shepherding outdoor adventurers with the right gear, get-up, and guidance… Ben unlocks the rich, robust, entrepreneurial past of Snowys Outdoors founder Richard Wescombe, from his humble beginnings to today’s outdoor retail royalty. Richard’s early ventures with Dial-A-Dino’s pizza delivery service, Stanford Mowers, and Ring-A-Ling Brothers Chinese food together built the solid foundation of experience and know-how to found his proudest establishment and asset to every Aussie adventurer – Snowys Outdoors. From the inspiration behind the Snowys brand to the art of building a team that sticks around, Richard tells a story of true grit, Aussie wit, and team spirit, underpinned by his all-too authentic passion for people. Tune in for a feel-good, warm-and-fuzzy discussion about a business driven not by dollars and cents, but customer service, collaboration, and connection. Shortcuts: 00:00 – Intro 00:31 – Introducing Founder of Snowys Outdoors, Richard Wescombe 02:12 – From Humble Beginnings on a Sheep Farm 05:19 – Richard’s Business Portfolio 06:06 – Dial-A Dino’s 08:54 – Remembering Greg 09:58 – Stanford Mowers 10:46 – Ring-A-Ling Brothers 12:04 – Building the Snowys Brand: The Inspiration, Name, and Logo 16:01 – The Adelaide Market in 1995 18:15 – Richard’s Approach to Choosing the Right Team 19:59 – The Evolution of Snowys’ Advertising 21:51 – Ben: A Snowys Asset! 24:56 – ‘Build Your Own Brand’: Richard’s Philosophy on Fostering Employee Growth 25:52 – Branding Strategies 27:55 – Snowys Brand Values: the ‘Why’ Behind the Business 29:18 – Growing the Snowys’ Web Business and E-Commerce 34:45 – Challenges and Set Backs 40:27 – Business Expansion 43:46 – Opening the Snowys Stores 47:28 – The ‘Leaner’ Team of Today: Efficient, Committed, and Multi-Skilled 49:09 – Phasing Out Footwear and Apparel 52:58 – Doubling Down on Snowys Principles 55:20 – The Feathers in Ben’s Cap 56:11 – Running a Family Business 01:00:15 – Richard’s Dreams for Snowys Outdoors 01:04:05 – Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

The gear that's got everyone going! In this episode, Ben and Lauren bust open the bag and let cat go rogue - revealing the top 10 best sellers that are flying off the Snowys' shelves! From the ever-proving-popular Hard Korr lanterns to Darche's Cold Mountain sleeping bags that boast superior warmth for a bargain - our gear gurus decode what's driving these camping cravings, and which products are genuinely worth the hype. Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 01:33 - Top 10 Best Sellers 02:20 - Hard Korr U-Lite Dual Colour LED Lanterns 03:57 - Rock Tamers Mud Flaps 06:00 - Oricom Wireless Reversing Camera 08:03 - Exped Mega Pump 11:28 - KickAss 12V 120Ah Deep Cycle AGM Battery 14:29 - KickAss Portable Vacuum Cleaner 17:30 - Milenco Mirrors 20:52 - Muk Mats 22:21 - Exped MegaMat Max 24:45 - Darche Cold Mountain Sleeping Bags 29:48 - Other Best Sellers 32:30 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

From sleeping rough to sleeping right, we hear from the mat masters! Ben and Lauren roll out the welcome mat for their all-time favourite guest, Ross from Sea to Summit, to discuss the ins, outs, and updates to their sleeping mat range. Our gear gurus explore the impact of global legislation on manufacturing, unpack updates to the Ether Light series, and discover the science behind the Delta Core technology in the Pursuit range. Plus, Ross hints at some developments still on the down-low, while Lauren declares that gear aesthetics aren’t optional – they’re scientific fact! Tune in for insider insights from the brand turning rough ground into royal slumber. Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 01:04 - Introducing Our All-Time Favourite: Ross from Sea to Summit! 02:12 - The Changes to Legislation and Manufacturing of Sleeping Mats 04:05 - Balancing Legislative Requirements Across the Globe 04:46 - Updates to the Sea to Summit Ether Light Series 09:47 - Durability and Reliability of a Sea to Summit Sleeping Mat 16:30 - Minimising Leaks 17:49 - Mat Insulation 21:52 - Gender-Specific Sleeping Mats Vs Bags 24:01 - R-Value 25:02 - Updates to the Sea to Summit Pursuit Self-Inflating Mats 27:32 - Delta Core Technology 29:53 - Where Does the Pursuit Sit in Sea to Summit's Current Range? 32:13 - Pack Size 34:21 - Sea to Summit Sleep Systems: Is There a Magic Combination? 35:45 - An Ideal Sleep System for an Adelaidean 37:21 - Updates to Pillows, Accessories, and Sleep Systems 39:15 - Considering Colours 41:14 - Lauren's Stance on Underestimating Aesthetics: 'You Can't, It's Science!' 42:16 - Summary: Secrets and Exciting News? Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

Reshaping outdoor access, one private paddock at a time… In this episode, Ben and Lauren pull up a chair at the campsite with HipCamp’s Global Social Media Strategist, Brooke, to discuss how this clever concept is solving the camping shortage by unlocking access to private properties. Our gear gurus explore the journey from ‘YouCamp’ beginnings to navigating state regulations, booking systems, and the fine art of balancing host happiness with camper satisfaction. The conversation covers self-contained camping requirements, community reviews, and the ongoing tussle with local council red tape – plus, Brooke reveals five hidden camping gems that remain humbly off the beaten track. Shortcuts: 00:00 – Intro 01:28 – Introducing Brooke from HipCamp 03:00 – From YouCamp to HipCamp 07:10 – What Makes HipCamp Different? 08:40 – More Than Just a Camping Airbnb… 10:10 – State Rules and Regulations 11:25 – Listings 13:34 – Booking Through HipCamp 16:12 – Hosting on HipCamp: Facilities Vs Self-Contained Camping 20:40 – Reviews: Support for Hosts and Campers 29:51 – Hosting on HipCamp 30:48 – Aligning with State Rules and Regulations 39:14 – The Scenic Rim Petition 45:00 – 5 Hidden Camping Gems 49:20 – The HipCamp Social Media Community 51:14 – Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

That sinking feeling of a flooded tent: are they an unfortunate reality or a gear failure red flag? Ben and Lauren drain the delusion from this soggy subject by diving into condensation versus leakage, separating the drips from deluges, and revealing which tent floor materials keep you high and dry. Plus, our gear gurus explain what happens when the weather stress-tests every stitch and seam. Tune in for a no-nonsense guide that reassures campers their shelter should repel water – not collect it! Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 00:59 - Is It Normal for Your Tent to Get Flooded? 02:00 - Firstly - NO! 02:51 - Some Exceptions and Condensation 05:50 - Condensation Vs Leakage 09:58 - Best Types of Tent Floors 15:39 - Unprecedented Rain 16:37 - Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

From heavyweight tradition to featherweight innovation: we meet the tent techs who have taken over! Ben and Lauren sit down with Ferdinand and Ronnie from Inspired Overland to unpack how they're reshaping the rooftop tent game with cutting-edge carbon fibre technology. Our gear gurus explore the journey from hobby project to global distribution, the sacrifices made to keep weight down without compromising durability, and the community-focused values that drive their product development. The conversation covers everything from materials and manufacturing processes to consumer feedback and future innovations. Tune in for a fascinating look at how obsessing over every gram can transform your camping experience - proving that sometimes the biggest breakthroughs come from thinking lighter, not larger! Shortcuts: 00:00 - Intro 00:46 - Introducing Ferdinand and Ronnie from Inspired Overland 10:17 - The Viral Video 11:44 - The Products: a Hobby Vs a Job 15:47 - Staying Loyal to Lightweightness: The Sacrifices 16:53 - From Concept to Distribution 20:20 - A Community-Focused Company 25:44 - Ferdinand's Background 27:37 - Shout-Out to Ronnie's Clothing Brand: Highland Trail Club! 26:55 - Materials: Talking Durability 32:30 - Innovation and Consumer Feedback 41:15 - Inspired Overland's Global Representation 45:10 - Sponsorships and Reviews 48:05 - Other Parts and Products 50:12 - The Carbon Fibre Manufacturing Process 54:30 - The Downside of Carbon Fibre? 55:41 - The Stargazer 59:58 - The Future of Inspired Overland 1:05:00 - Less Weight, More Fun! How Weight Affects Your Camping Experience 1:09:00 - Final Words 1:11:35 - See You at the National 4X4 Outdoors Show in Sydney! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au

In this episode, Ben and Lauren have several lightbulb moments… Our gear gurus navigate the headlamp highway, shedding light on choosing the perfect hands-free lighting solution for your outdoor adventures. This 25-minute breakdown is as bright as it is tight, exploring the technical details from lumens versus lux ratings to flood versus spotlight beam patterns. The conversation covers power options, red light function, and practical considerations for both night hiking and campsite dynamics. Tune in for illuminating advice on how to choose the best headlamp for you! Shortcuts: 00:00 – Intro 01:48 – How to Choose a Headlamp 02:53 – Ben and Lauren’s Headlamps 04:29 – The Petzl Range 05:41 – Lumens 08:19 – Lux 09:07 – Night Hiking 09:57 – Flood and Spotlight Beam 11:03 – Value for Money 12:28 – How a Headlamp is Powered 16:46 – The Red Light Function 18:49 – Petzl Vs Black Diamond 22:49 – Summary Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/snowys Head to snowys.com.au for all your gear needs: https://www.snowys.com.au