By Shelby Sheehan-Bernard
McClatchy-Tribune
When packing for an adventure, the key is always organization. Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Specter Cube Set includes three different-sized packing cubes that open wide to accept a range of items and zip to maximize the space and ensure everything stays in the right place in your bag or luggage.
Made from a lightweight silnylon ripstop fabric that’s translucent so you can see the contents, it’s durable and can stretch to accommodate the gear needed for your trip. The material is also water and stain resistant and is hand washable, which is critical for the dirty clothing the cubes may hold on the return trip.
Each size cube can hold a different item category — the small could be used for toiletries, the medium for underwear and the large for shirts and pants — which makes on-the-road organization a breeze. They’re also easy to pack. Just roll clothing items into the cube and close the zipper. Each cube has a built-in handle for easy carry.
Available in a range of colors including purple, blue, orange and green. Price for the set of three cubes is $38. To purchase or find a list of other retailers, visit Eaglecreek.com.
Bug catcher makes it easy for children to catch creatures
Tired of hearing your young ones cry “I’m bored”? Sometimes the greatest adventure is right in your own backyard, and you just need the right gear to experience it. Carson’s BugView bug catcher is a simple little tool that makes it easy for children to collect interesting specimens without having to touch them. Once the creature is caught, kids can view it under the included 5x magnifying lens and then humanely set it free when they’re done.
The catcher has a thumb-operated trapping slider that allows users to collect specimens with one hand and avoid the ick factor. The lens is powerful enough to see fine details in ambient light and is made from acrylic for durability. Best of all, the tool doesn’t require batteries and is easy to operate, so even young children can get in on the action.
Dimensions are 10.6 x 2 x 1.5 inches. Handle is yellow and green; lens is clear with a yellow backing for viewing.
Price is $12. Available at REI, Walmart and Amazon. For a list of other retailers, visit Carson.com.
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