Explore every episode of the podcast Snowys Camping Show
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ep209 - We're Changing Things Up - Here's Why | 16 Sep 2026 | 00:29:31 | |
Perched in an Inspired Overland Trailpeak atop Ben's car (take two, after audio gremlins claimed the first!), Ben and Lauren zip up season 6 with a look back at its biggest hits. From down-to-earth chats with Bushman Fridges and Trangia to the 12V appliances episode that split the comments section – our gear gurus unpack what you watched, what you debated, and what they loved most. Along the way, Lauren returns from the Larapinta Trail with desert storms, wildflowers, and a hard-won lesson in trail food, while Ben stands by the four beers in his hiking pack. Then, it's down to business: two 12-episode seasons a year with recording blocks in between – meaning fewer episodes, but better ones. Be it road tests you want run, interviews filmed on location, or your own rig in the hot seat – tune in for how you can help shape what's coming, the lowdown on the lightweight 38-kilo Trailpeak, and a tight-lipped teaser of the special episode landing in November, before the new season rolls out in early December. 00:00:00 - Intro: Recording from a Rooftop Tent Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep208 - The Future of Camping: Inside Zempire | 17 Aug 2026 | 00:58:43 | |
Fresh from filming some new gear in the wild, Ben and Lauren sit down with Zempire's brand engagement guru James - a Toronto-born, bad-weather-loving New Zealander - to unpack the why behind the brand's kit. This isn't a spec-sheet sales pitch; it's a candid chat about building to a priority, not a price point. From the pioneering air-textured yarn behind the Shape Shifter to the pop-up ease of the Aerospeed, the return-rate maths on air poles versus hard poles, and a sneak peek at a brand-new chair range, a redesigned multi-gas cooker, and a pint-sized Hexolite table — our gear gurus get to the heart of what makes Zempire tick. Be it packability, durability, or camping that's for everyone — tune in for the philosophy behind the products! Timestamps 00:00 - Welcome back to the Snowys Camping Show 00:47 - Meet James, Zempire's brand engagement guru 01:28 - Why Zempire went all-in on air 04:36 - From Toronto to New Zealand: James' backstory 07:22 - What 'brand engagement' actually means 08:02 - Talking the 'why', not the spec sheet 10:29 - Designing the new chair range from scratch 11:53 - The Hyperfold: one bag, a lot of chair 16:24 - Cooker 2.0: slimmer, multi-gas, smarter burners 21:52 - Hexolite tables and the new compact 60 31:05 - Shape Shifter: the tent that grows with you 32:30 - Building to a priority, not a price point 43:28 - Future-proofing your kit and the base system 47:37 - Air poles vs hard poles: the return-rate reality 51:11 - What's next in Zempire world Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep207 - Thinking About Hiking the Larapinta? Here's Where to Start | 20 Jul 2026 | 01:06:18 | |
Two and a half weeks, 223km, and a whole lot of honesty about what actually happens on trail. In this episode Ben turns the mic on his co-host Lauren, who's about to walk the Larapinta Trail - 223km from Alice Springs to Mount Sonder with two colleagues over 14 days. They dig into the gear debates that actually matter (trail runners versus boots, three wildly different backpacks between the group), the sleep system upgrades that finally made multi-day hiking bearable for Ben, and the practical realities of toileting, safety, and staying calm about snakes. Tune in for a genuinely candid conversation about preparing for a long trek, whether you're a first-timer feeling intimidated or a seasoned hiker fine-tuning your kit! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep206 - From Sweden to Campsites Worldwide | The Trangia Story | 07 Jul 2026 | 01:07:45 | |
100 years, one factory, and a stove design nobody's been able to improve on. From a small Swedish village called Trångsviken to a factory that's shipped over a quarter-million burners a year, in this episode Ben and Lauren sit down with Magnus Rydel, CEO of Trangia, to unpack a century of doing things the slow way on purpose. They dig into why the brass spirit burner hasn't meaningfully changed since the 1950s, how a scrap of aluminium punched from one part becomes the lid on another, and the story behind the brand's most unlikely bestseller: a glittery pink windshield born from a 9-year-old's note in a suggestion box. Tune in for an hour of manufacturing philosophy, fuel-safety myths busted, and a genuinely lovely reminder that not everything needs to boil water faster! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep205 - How Fuel Prices Are Changing Camping | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:45:57 | |
Turns out the cheapest mod you can make to your rig doesn't cost a cent. From a fuel price shock that pushed regular unleaded past $3 a litre to reworking your entire weekly shop, in this episode Ben and Lauren strip fuel economy right back to basics. They dig into why weight is the single biggest lever you can pull on any trip, how one multi-purpose camp oven lid lifter can replace three separate tools rattling around your kit, and why the smartest fuel-saving habit might have nothing to do with your car at all - it's what you do with your bike, your kids' public transport cards, and your online shopping cart in the weeks before you even leave. Tune in for a genuinely useful hour on stretching your fuel budget further, no fuel additives or dodgy chip tunes required! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep204 - Inside Bushman Fridges with Tommy Stockdale | 09 Jun 2026 | 01:28:31 | |
The quiet achiever of the camping fridge world finally steps into the spotlight… From wire-on-tube heat exchangers straight out of Nan's old Kelvinator to a 35L base that expands into a 52L weekend beast -- in this episode, Ben and Lauren unpack the quiet achiever of the camping fridge world with the man who's lived and breathed the brand for over a decade. They dig into why a swappable wiring loom beats a fancy touch panel, how steel construction outlasts plastic in the harsh Aussie sun, and why Bushman would rather you call them about your dodgy DIY mod than void your warranty over it. Tune in for an hour of fridge philosophy, real-world efficiency tips, and proof that sometimes the most underrated gear is the stuff that just quietly gets the job done! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep203 - What's New at Jetboil? With Nicole Walbran | 25 May 2026 | 00:37:20 | |
JetBoil is shaking up the kit you thought you knew. Fresh off last year’s chat with Mike Hebert, Ben and Lauren welcome JetBoil’s International Sales Manager Nicole Walburn into the studio to unpack the brand’s biggest range refresh in years. From the Flash 1.8L that quietly steps in for the much-loved Sumo, to the all new Trail Cook stoves, and the ever-popular Genesis two-burner — our gear gurus dig into what’s changed, why it’s changed, and which JetBoil suits the way you actually camp. Along the way: regulated vs unregulated stoves, the great Mini Mo loyalty debate, the truth about ceramic coatings, and even the wartime backstory behind Duck Camo. Be it a fast-boil purist, a backcountry chef, or a car camper after one clever stove that does it all — tune in for the full rundown on JetBoil’s 2026 lineup! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep202 - Jimmy, the Jimny and the Open Road | 11 May 2026 | 00:53:11 | |
it’s the little four-wheel drive that’s built a cult following. In this episode, Ben and Lauren pull up a chair with Snowys’ OG ambassador James — better known online as Jimmy Chimney — to unpack five years of thoughtful mods, hard-won lessons, and the fine art of camping out of a car barely bigger than a shopping trolley. From slimline lithium setups and lightweight rooftop tents to GVM headaches, roof load realities, and cooking a proper feed out of a 20-litre fridge, our gear gurus dig into what it really takes to tour Australia in its most lovable little 4WD. Be it a weekend warrior eyeing off your first build, a die-hard tourer weighing up the trade-offs, or simply a Jimny tragic who waves at every JB74 you pass — tune in for an honest yarn about doing a whole lot more with a whole lot less! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep201 - What We Should Get Rid Of...But Don't | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:44:37 | |
Seven tents, five swags, and a fridge that moonlights as a weights bench... It turns out even the most seasoned gear gurus aren't immune to a good old camping hoard! In this episode, Ben and Lauren throw open the shed doors and take an honest, hilarious inventory of the gear they can't quite bring themselves to part with - from sentimental scout-era stoves and hiking packs that haven't seen a trail in years, to duplicate eskies, eleven mugs, and enough camp chairs to seat a small army. Be it the surprisingly relatable logic of keeping a broken fridge, the case for holding onto your eighth sleeping bag, or the moment Lauren admits she has more tents than she has weekends to use them - tune in for a candid, laugh-out-loud conversation about the gear we accumulate, the reasons we justify keeping it, and why sometimes the hardest part of camping isn't the hike... it's the shed! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep200 - Watch This & Win: Episode 200 Giveaway! | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:46:26 | |
200 Episodes, 5 Secret Sounds, and a Whole Lot of Gear to Give Away! It's our 200th episode -- and we're celebrating the milestone with something a little different... A Secret Sound! Ben and Lauren reflect on five years, four studios, and nearly a million YouTube views, before diving into the stats (you've listened to us for 150,000 hours!), the standout episodes, and the moments that have made the Snowys Camping Show what it is today. From the ghost camping crackdown that sparked 300+ comments, to the interviews that stuck with them most -- it's a look back at the people, the gear, and the banter that's kept the conversation going for 200 episodes strong. Be it a JetBoil Trail Cook 2.0, a Sea To Summit sleeping mat or the Cybertake Air Conditioner grand prize up for grabs -- listen in, guess the sounds, and you could be walking away with some seriously good gear! More details here - https://www.snowys.com.au/blog/podcast-200-episodes-giveaway-special/ 0:00 – Welcome to Episode 200! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep199 - Life on the Road: Kira & Mitch from Sure to Sea | 30 Mar 2026 | 01:19:04 | |
From van life solo to a Troopy built for two... meet Kira and Mitch of Suretosea Ben and Lauren welcome Snowys' ambassadors Kira and Mitch, into the studio, a Tassie-based couple currently doing a full lap of Australia in their 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser troop carrier, affectionately known as Troopski. Fresh off 10 months on the east coast and down the centre, they've barely had time to wash the red dirt out before hitting the road again - this time heading west. From the rooftop tent decision that changed everything, to budgeting $1,000 a week on the road, bulk-buying meat and the very real burnout that comes with trying to see it all — be it the highs of Babinda Boulders and Kakadu or the flies, the heat, and the moment you just want carpet under your feet -- tune in for an honest, unfiltered chat about life on the road with two people living it. Shortcuts: 0:30 – Ben introduces Kira and Mitch of Suretosea 1:59 – Kira shares her background growing up in southern Tasmania 3:04 – Mitch talks about his upbringing on a farm on the Yorke Peninsula 6:39 – Kira and Mitch reveal they’re heading west for a full lap of Australia 10:24 – The story of Troopski — a 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser troop carrier 11:50 – Why they chose a rooftop tent over a roof conversion 25:00 – The origin of their brand name, Suretosea 29:31 – How they afford full-time travel (savings, budgeting, and UGC work) 37:50 – Fridge, freezer, and food prep tips for life on the road 50:20 – Favourite locations in Australia so far 1:06:24 – The items Kira and Mitch never leave home without 1:10:50 – The craziest thing they’ve seen on the road Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep198 - Eat Well, Camp Better - Q&A Edition | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:36:55 | |
From the campfire to the cooktop — every camp cooking question you’ve ever had, answered Whether you’re chasing the perfect camp coffee, cooking through a total fire ban, or wondering if freeze-dried meals are actually worth it — Ben and Lauren have served up a feast of answers. In this Q&A compilation episode, our video guy, Larry, has raided four years’ worth of content to collate your most common camp cooking and food questions into one well-seasoned episode. From camp oven lamb shanks and the great damper debate, to induction cooker realities, 12V oven limitations, and the AeroPress fan club — our gear gurus dish out practical advice on planning your camp menu, prepping smarter at home, and making the most of whatever cooking setup you’ve got. Tune in for a blast from the past — and a whole lot of food for thought!
00:00 — Intro & episode format explained 03:54 — Q: What’s your favourite recipe for camp stove and open fire? (John) 07:00 — Q: Camp meal ideas, preparation & tips for stove-only cooking (Karen) 09:14 — Q: What cooking options do you recommend for total fire ban days? (Curtis) 14:43 — Q: Induction cooking is on trend — what’s available for camping? 21:26 — Q: What are the best coffee makers for camping? 24:43 — Q: Best ultralight crockery and cutlery for hiking at the lowest price (Everyday Alchemist) 27:13 — Q: What’s your favourite meal to cook when camping? 29:12 — Q: Have you reviewed BackCountry/Outdoor Gourmet freeze-dried meals? (Mel) 36:18 — Wrap up Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep197 - Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a Camp Stretcher | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:25:38 | |
From bad backs to bad sleeps, the humble camp stretcher has a lot riding on it. 2:48 – Negatives of stretchers: bulk, weight, insulation limitations, and tent fit challenges 5:01 – Sturdy stretcher options: OZtrail Easy Fold, Zempire Z-Leg, and Quest Fast Bed reviewed 7:36 – Flat-fold stretchers: Big Sky and OZtrail Rhino Bed discussed, plus comfort vs. portability trade-offs 9:25 – Cross-leg stretchers: Oztent RS1, Coleman Swagger, 23Zero and others compared for stability 10:59 – Compact stretchers: Helinox options reviewed, value vs. cost debate, and budget alternatives 13:39 – Double stretcher deep-dive: pole vs. no pole, the sagging middle problem, and Quest's platform solution 16:28 – Swag-specific stretchers: matching dimensions, overhang tips, and whether tie points are really necessary 18:31 – Stretcher tents: Oztent Bunker, OZtrail, and Quest options explored as an all-in-one alternative 24:18 – Common questions answered: mattress pairing, tent floor protection, uneven ground, and putting two stretchers together Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep196 - Sea to Summit Design Process & New Gear 2026 with Tim Miller | 24 Feb 2026 | 01:12:33 | |
…it takes 13 years, a children’s IKEA desk, and a whole lot of passion. In this episode, Ben and Lauren sit down with Sea To Summit’s senior product designer Tim Miller — the mind behind some of the brand’s most iconic gear — for an inside look at what it really takes to design outdoor equipment that lasts. From the Xpot’s award-winning origins to the engineering upgrades behind the new Ultralite XR air mat, Tim pulls back the curtain on the design decisions, trade-offs, and material innovations that keep Sea To Summit at the pointy end of the market. Be it the bombproof weld construction of the updated air mat range, the clever Memory Lux pillow solving the ‘home pillow hogging the boot’ problem, or the tantalising tease of an airbeam mozzy net on the horizon — tune in for an hour and a half of product insights straight from the source! Shortcuts: 0:00 — Intro & welcome: Ben and Lauren introduce Tim Miller, senior product designer at Sea to Summit 1:45 — Tim’s background: How he stumbled into Sea to Summit after university, starting unpaid at a children’s IKEA desk 5:00 — The design team: How the long-tenured team of six designers collaborates and avoids working in silos 8:40 — Sea to Summit’s design philosophy: Ground-up original design vs the “me-too” factory approach common in the industry 11:00 — Manufacturing process: Factory visits, quick prototyping, and the story of designing a machine when no existing equipment could make what they wanted 13:10 — Field testing & expeditions: Design team Kimberley packraft trips, testing prototypes in the wild, and the brutal feedback culture 17:15 — Working 2 years ahead: The challenge of designing for 2028 while reacting to what competitors launch today 19:20 — The ultralight balance: Why Sea to Summit won’t sacrifice durability for weight claims, and the lightest-isn’t-always-best debate 25:15 — Sustainability: Sea to Summit’s approach — durability as the best environmental policy, solution-dyed fabrics, and replaceable buckles 31:45 — 2026 sleep systems: Deep dive into the new Circuit sleeping bag — the spiritual successor to the original Trek 37:15 — Women’s fit sleeping bags: Lauren makes a passionate case for keeping women’s specific sizing in the range 39:00 — Air mat updates: The new Ultralite XR — thermally reflective film insulation, dramatically reduced bulk, and the improved weld construction 45:40 — The Comfort Deluxe mat: The 10cm car camping mat that actually folds up properly 51:45 — Pillows: The upgraded Premium Pillow, Down Pillow, and Tim’s passion project — the Memory Lux adjustable pillow 54:40 — Liners: Thermalite vs Coolmax fabrics explained, Tim’s controversial hot tip for the Breeze liner 1:05:30 — Other new products: Pack taps refresh, hydration bladders, and the X range and dinnerware updates 1:06:50 — Community questions: Mat longevity in humid climates, sleeping bag temperature ratings, what’s in the pipeline for 2027/28 1:09:10 — The big teaser: Tim drops the airbeam sealed mozzy net passion project — Sea to Summit entering the airbeam category Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep195 - Sleep Tight: Comfort & Shelter at Camp - Q&A Edition | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:57:19 | |
Rest assured — we’ve got your camp comfort questions covered. From self-inflating mats versus air mattresses to the best sleeping bags for bigger people, a comfortable camp starts with the right sleep system — and in this episode, Ben and Lauren are answering your biggest questions about beds, bags, tents, and shelter to help you build a setup that actually works. Whether you’re weighing up stretchers against air beds (bad back and all), wondering if that new down bag smell is normal, or trying to track down a light and easy-to-roll swag for solo adventures — our gear gurus cover it all. They also tackle the big shelter debates: pop-up tents for boat and island camping, compact 4-season family tents, the cheapie tents from Kmart and Big W, air tents from Outdoor Connection and Zempire, and how to stop your gazebo from becoming a kite in high winds. Tune in for real-world advice, honest opinions, and practical tips to help you sleep sounder and camp smarter! Shortcuts: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep194 - 12V Appliances are a Thing Now! | 08 Feb 2026 | 00:46:43 | |
Watts cooking in the world of 12V? From fridges and kettles to coffee machines and air fryers, 12V appliances are no longer just a novelty – they’re fast becoming essential kit for the modern camper. But with great power comes great responsibility (to your battery!), and not every gadget on the market is worth the amp draw. In this episode, Ben and Lauren plug into the world of 12V appliances, breaking down which ones are genuinely worth running off-grid, what realistic power requirements look like, and how to integrate them into your camping or touring setup without flattening your battery before breakfast. Tune in for the practical lowdown on what’s useful, what’s overkill, and what’s here to stay! Shortcuts: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep193 - Powering the Outdoors: Q&A Edition | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:26:25 | |
From power banks to generator gripes, we’ve summarised all your camping electricity questions! In this episode, we’ve gathered four years’ worth of conversations about camping power systems and collated them into one info-packed episode. Ben and Lauren synthesise their accumulated knowledge on AGM versus lithium batteries, solar controllers, and the maths behind keeping your campsite charged – from calculating amp hours for multi-day fridge setups to connecting mismatched solar panels in parallel. Tune in for practical solutions ranging from the ideal pairing of a 100Ah battery with a 200-250W solar blanket, why 240V inverters can be efficiency vampires, and how to diplomatically handle the campsite neighbour whose generator has been humming for eight hours straight! Shortcuts: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep192 - Underrated Camping Gear That Just Works | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:34:26 | |
Ben and Lauren pull back the curtain on their personal camping preferences, revealing favourite gear, hilarious camp fails, and Ben and Lauren celebrate the overlooked essentials that don’t get the glory but absolutely deserve it, drawing on insights from the entire Snowys crew and their passionate Facebook community. Our gear gurus explore humble heroes like paintbrushes for cleanup (thanks Bob West), pumps for deflating mats, collapsible buckets for hand washing, and the legendary “hot cross bun” lights that keep popping up in recommendations. The conversation features contributions from team members like Cory, Jake, Hardy, and Brooke, plus community legends like Fiona, Muzzi, and countless others who’ve shared their low-key game-changers. From Sea to Summit pocket showers to collapsible Tupperware and portable fans that battle condensation, tune in for the practical picks that won’t break the bank but will absolutely improve your camping experience. Shortcuts: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep191 - What's Hot This Summer at Snowys '26 | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:44:27 | |
Ben and Lauren kick off from their shiny new studio, reflecting on 2025’s highlights before diving into Snowys’ top summer sellers. Our gear gurus unveil the ten products dominating sales right now – from Coleman’s instant setup heroes and JetBoil’s cooking wizardry to Exped’s comfort champions and Hard Korr’s legendary lanterns (affectionately dubbed “Hot Cross Buns”). The conversation covers everything from reversing cameras and director’s chairs to mega shelters and sleeping mats, plus an honourable mention for the 360° Degrees Furno combo that’s turning heads. With insights into the Snowys Club monthly giveaway and bold winter predictions, tune in to discover what gear has captured Australia’s camping obsession this season.
Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep190 - Inside Camp Life with the Snowys Team | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:49:45 | |
Snowys unplugged: our gear gurus go off-grid and off-script! Here's what the team really packs for a camping trip... Ben and Lauren pull back the curtain on their personal camping preferences, revealing favourite gear, hilarious camp fails, and the luxury items they can't leave behind. Our hosts share insights from across the Snowys team about what equipment really earns its place, explore campsite selection wisdom, and decode which gear trends are rising (and which are on their way out). The conversation covers weird and wonderful camping hacks that actually work, lightbulb moments that changed their outdoor approach, and the honest difference between true essentials and nice-to-haves. Yep, even the experts have failures, favourites, and unexpected indulgence! 00:00 - Intro Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep189 - ChatGPT Goes Camping: Your Questions Answered | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:35:20 | |
In the spirit of this week's episode, our copywriter resentfully asked ChatGPT to write the overview below: "Buckle up, campers. In this episode, Ben and Lauren put the bot to work tackling Nicole’s curly questions about staying dry in wild weather and keeping your back happy on solo trips. From wind-proof setups to back-friendly sleep rigs, ChatGPT cops a grilling on accuracy, context, and its suspiciously American taste in gear. There are shopping lists, packing plans, pump chats, and a budget smackdown with Ben. It’s all the camp chaos you love, wrapped in Aussie banter. It's AI meets the great outdoors — what could go wrong?" 00:00 - Intro Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep188 - Campsite Setup: Q&A Edition | 30 Nov 2025 | 00:35:13 | |
From sand invasion to stake placement: your campsite setup questions answered... In this compilation episode, Ben and Lauren tap back into previous episodes to tackle a collection of listener queries about the practical side of campsite living. Our gear gurus share strategies for DIY windbreaks, reveal their at-home gear maintenance rituals, and decode effective food protection from persistent pests. The conversation covers surprising gear that proved unexpectedly useful (and even the mistakes that weren't), Ben's definition of "luxury" camping items that earn their weight, and the emergency kit essentials that could save your trip. A practical Q&A session that proves successful camping isn't about having every gadget - it's about knowing which problems to solve and which rituals to respect! 00:00 - Intro Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep187 - Snowys Christmas Gift Ideas '25 | 25 Nov 2025 | 00:36:16 | |
Stumped for stocking stuffers? Banking on something brilliant? The ultimate outdoor gift guide just dropped... Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep186 - All-Conditions Camp Comfort: Q&A Edition | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:37:23 | |
From scorchers to soakers… Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep185 - Pumped Up for the Outdoors | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:49:28 | |
From lung-busting manual effort to push-button perfection, Ben and Lauren talk inflation innovation! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep184 - Communal Camping | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:28:01 | |
Building campsite communities that actually work together… Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep183 - From the Archives: Fire Ban Seasons with the CFS | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:47:45 | |
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. Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep182 - Warm Nights, Dry Mornings: Rooftop Tent Tips | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:19:10 | |
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: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep181 - Lightweight Rooftop Tents: What's New | 06 Oct 2025 | 00:28:33 | |
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. Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep180 - Stack It & Strap It! Tubs & Tie-Downs | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:30:46 | |
From chaos to cargo control, without feeling tied-down... Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep179 - Dynamic Shelter Solutions | 21 Sep 2025 | 00:26:01 | |
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: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep178 - The Best Vehicles to Camp Out Of | 14 Sep 2025 | 00:44:06 | |
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: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep177 - Blockout Tents: Yay or Nay? | 07 Sep 2025 | 00:17:46 | |
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: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep176 - Talking Rooftop Tent Brands | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:33:33 | |
Our rooftop tent options that elevate every campsite setup… Ben and Lauren scale the heights of rooftop tent excellence, breaking down their 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: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep175 - How Much Water to Carry | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:19:13 | |
Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep174 - Canvas Vs Synthetic Tents | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:16:37 | |
The age-old tent tussle: canvas champions versus synthetic titans... Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep173 - Non-EN-Rated Sleeping Bags | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:21:07 | |
The sleeping bag rebels going rogue on ratings! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep172 - Getting Back into Camping | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:38:19 | |
Your camping comeback: when the great outdoors feels a little too great... Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep171 - Roof Rack Storage | 27 Jul 2025 | 00:20:38 | |
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: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep170 - The Snowys Story with Richard Wescombe | 21 Jul 2025 | 01:02:51 | |
From shearing sheep and dishing pizza to doorsteps, to shepherding outdoor adventurers with the right gear, get-up, and guidance… Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep169 - Gear Up: Top 10 Best Sellers Right Now! | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:32:48 | |
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: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep168 - Sea to Summit Sleep Mats with Ross Smith | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:43:09 | |
From sleeping rough to sleeping right, we hear from the mat masters! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep167 - The HipCamp Story & 5 Hidden Camping Gems | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:52:27 | |
Reshaping outdoor access, one private paddock at a time… Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep166 - Is It Normal for Your Tent to Get Flooded? | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:20:01 | |
That sinking feeling of a flooded tent: are they an unfortunate reality or a gear failure red flag? Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep165 - Lightweight Rooftop Tents with Inspired Overland | 16 Jun 2025 | 01:12:49 | |
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! Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep164 - How to Choose a Headlamp | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:24:42 | |
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!
Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep163 - What Makes a Fabric Waterproof? | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:31:45 | |
Water meets its match: fabric technologies demystified! When it rains, it pours - but it doesn't have to bore! In this episode, Ben is presented with another opportunity to geek out, and this time our gear gurus unfold the complex world of waterproof fabrics. From the fundamental differences between waterproof, water-resistant, and water-repellent, to hydrostatic head ratings and coatings - Ben and Lauren decode every last drop. The conversation flows through PE versus PU treatments, siliconised fabrics, laminated materials, and the beading beauty of DWR coatings. Tune in for a masterclass in fabric technology that proves keeping dry is equal parts chemistry, engineering, and outdoor know-how! Shortcuts: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep162 - All About myCOOLMAN with Charlie Graham | 26 May 2025 | 01:11:19 | |
A deep-freeze dive into myCOOLMAN with the guy who keeps his cool for a living... Staying cool under pressure is both an art and a science. In this episode, Ben and Lauren sit down with myCOOLMAN's Technical Sales and Product Specialist, Charlie Graham, to unpack what makes this Aussie fridge manufacturer tick. Our gear gurus explore the brand's ground-up origins, tap into the Blue-Gen compressor technology, and discover the hidden features that set myCOOLMAN apart from the frosty competition. From efficiency and quality control processes to battery integration and secrets to reducing noise, tune in for the cold, hard truth on how local engineering expertise builds the best fridges for Australian adventures. Shortcuts: Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep161 - Ghost Camping Crackdown and a Camping Fee Overhaul | 18 May 2025 | 00:46:57 | |
No-shows, know-hows, and new fees: the camping reservation revolution... Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||
| Ep160 - Decoding LP Gas & Choosing a Stove | 12 May 2025 | 00:44:35 | |
Fueling your flames: the gas-tronomy of camp cooking… Join the conversation over on our Facebook group: | |||