While most everything you could need in the outdoors is available commercially, there are a few items I have found that are still too big or heavy for my liking. There are a couple that just do not really exist- for example the "mayonnaise container toilet system" for river trips. Below are some ideas for homemade gear options.

Alcohol Stoves

Commercial stoves are one such item. I use a homemade alcohol stove. It is described on our Desert Gear Pages. Plans for the alcohol stove can be found at pcthiker.com. (Unfortunately, as of 29 February, 2008 there seems to be an issue with this link. I know this is the correct address, so I will leave it up for now.)

Toilet System for Rivers

Some type of sealable toilet system is required on all western rivers. I carry 1 gallon mayonnaise jugs with screw lids which I get for free from the deli of the local grocery store. I wrap the containers with duct tape for added safety, probably not really necessary but considering the contents I take the extra time to do it. They have very secure lids and handles which I run a piece of webbing through to tie them into my boat. I use disposable, single use toilet liner bags which are designed to be used without a toilet system as well. They can be placed directly on the ground for use. The WAG Bag is available at REI in packs of 12 or individually. The Restop 2 Wilderness Containment Pouch is another option which is available in packs of 5. Both are acceptable for use on rivers, but require a sealable container in which to store the used bags. I bring along an extra container to carry out my trash. When the trip is over the containers can be disposed of with regular trash.

This system may or may not be acceptable as a backcountry toilet- some parks and recreation areas require an actual commercial toilet system. Check local regulations before you head out. As of the summer of 2008 this system is no longer allowed on the San Juan River- an ammo box is required for storage of used Wag Bags.

Projects Requiring a Sewing Machine

I have made a number of items with my sewing machine including a silcloth daypack weighing a few ounces, a mosquito net weighing about 4 ounces, and plenty of gear-specific stuff bags. For fabric, thread and accessories I use Outdoor Wilderness Fabrics. Visit their website by clicking the link, or call them at (208) 402-0110 with questions. They are very helpful with picking out the proper fabric for the project and have such obscure items as mini-cordlocks which I have found nowhere else.

Mosquito Net

This is a very simple piece of equipment to make and takes the place a bulkier and heavier commercial options. I used no-see-um netting that is about 50 inches wide and sold by the yard. The finished size will vary depending on your height and width. Mine is about 3 1/2 feet wide by about 5 1/2 feet long, with about 3 feet doubled up. It can feel a little tight at times, but I chose the smaller size to cut down on weight.

The shorter section of the double layer slides underneath my sleeping pad and holds the net in place. The 5 1/2 foot side then drapes over my head and continues down over my legs. It can be made more efficient by making the lower section that drapes over your legs, or sleeping bag, wider so that it can be tucked underneath and longer if you choose. You can stitch in one or two lines towards the head end to tie it up so it stays off your face. The whole thing shouldn't weigh more than 6 or 8 ounces. Mine is just over 4 ounces.

Related Pages:

Page 1: Going Ultralight
Page 2: The Desert Explorer Ultralight Packing List
Page 3: The Desert Explorer Ultralight Packing List Explained
Page 4: Desert Explorer Recommended Gear
Page 5: Homemade Gear