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Ultimate Waterproof & Durable Gear Storage: Gregory Alpaca 45 for Your Outdoor Adventures
Discover the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box—your ultimate companion for waterproof, durable, and organized outdoor gear storage.
Imagine this: You’re deep in the heart of a rugged wilderness, the sky suddenly darkens, and a torrential downpour begins. As the rain pelts down, you realize you’re cool as a cucumber. Why? You know your essential gear is safely tucked away in the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box. No frantic midnight scurries to cover gear, or sorting soggy equipment—just peace of mind. May as well crack another hazy. I’m a gear organization nerd, a trait that I share with many outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and gearheads alike. Having reliable gear storage can make all the difference.
Let’s talk about the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box - a game-changer for me in the world of outdoor storage solutions and gear organiztion. This is part of the Alpaca Gear Organization System that Gregory released this year (2024). The kit consists of these Storage boxes, Gear Pods, Gear Basket, 30L Tote, Gear Wagon & 2 duffels. In this blog post, I’m only focusing on the Gear Box. I’ll jump into the standout features, pros, and (very few) cons of the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box, and suggest why it belongs in your car camping setup.
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Features of the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box
Unmatched Waterproof and Dustproof Protection
The Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box is engineered to shield your gear from the harshest elements. With an IP65 rating, this storage box is both waterproof and dustproof. What’s that mean? Your equipment stays dry and clean regardless of where your adventures lead you. Whether you’re set up in a rainy forest or alongside a dusty trail (I’m looking at you, Arizona), the Alpaca 45 stands strong af. Gregory has slapped it with rigorous water jet tests, and it won - meaning it can withstand being sprayed from any angle without allowing water to get in. This level of protection is crucial for outdoor enthusiasts who depend on their gear to perform flawlessly in all weather conditions.
2. Innovative Clearview Lid
One of my favorite features of the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box is its Clearview Polycarbonate lid. This transparent lid allows you to instantly locate your gear without the need to open the box. I currently own 2 of these. One is my camp kitchen set, and the other is my camp equipment set - things like a tent, chairs, hammocks, electronics bag, and tarp. The Clearview lid is equipped with a gasket seal, ensuring a tight closure that keeps out water and dust. Made from high-impact polycarbonate, the lid is not only transparent but also exceptionally durable and resistant to heavy impacts, safeguarding your valuable gear from potential damage.
3. Removable, FlipFlop Hinged Lid
The Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box lid is also a removable, FlipFlop hinged lid. This innovative design allows you to open the lid from either side, providing easy access to your gear from multiple angles. The combination of hinges and latch mechanisms guarantees that the lid remains secure during transit while offering flexibility in how you access your gear. I can’t even begin to tell you how useful this is both at camp and while packing at home. Though I have seen boxes use this feature, I haven’t seen it executed as well as Gregory has done with it.
4. lockable Lid slots
Dude, this is HUGE! The Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box can also be locked by using the 2 slots on either side of the lid. Just drop a combo padlock (like these) on either side and, boom, you’re secure! Bonus: you don’t have to remove both of them to access your goods in the box thanks to that dual hinge. I keep everything in the bed of my Tacoma and although I have a bed rack that covers most of it, it still leaves things accessible for any (asshole) to reach in a grab things. This was actually the first question I had asked when the Gregory team had told me about these Gear Boxes coming out. So stoked they included a way to lock them!! You could also pass a strap through these slots if you wanted to securely tie these down. The slots are 1” long.
5. Built for Durability
Durability is a cornerstone of the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box. The molded bottom is designed to handle heavy loads and rough handling, ensuring that the box remains stable and secure even when fully packed. Constructed from 50% recycled materials, the bottom not only reflects Gregory’s commitment to sustainability but also maintains exceptional strength and durability. Additionally, the box’s stacking design allows multiple units to be stacked neatly, optimizing storage efficiency and saving valuable space.
6. Water Channeling and Drainage Design
Beyond its waterproof properties, the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box features a sophisticated water channeling and drainage system. The top lid is meticulously designed to channel water away and facilitate efficient drainage, preventing water from pooling on the box’s surface. This is particularly beneficial in wet environments, as it ensures that no excess water remains on top, further protecting the contents inside. Real world example of how badass this is: I often use these as a tabletop surface on the tailgate of the Tacoma. I wasn’t paying attention after adding in all of the spices to my Ramen dinner and the Jetboil overflowed - spilling goodness everywhere. The liquid rolled straight off the Gear box, and not a single drop of ramen juice got inside.
7. Customizable Storage Options
Organization is key when it comes to managing outdoor gear, and the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box doesn’t show up to the party alone. The box is compatible with 5L and 10L Alpaca Gear Pods (sold separately), allowing you to tailor the interior layout to suit your specific needs. Whether you’re organizing camping equipment, photography gear, tools, or other essentials, these Gear Pods provide dedicated spaces, ensuring that everything has its place.
8. Lifetime Warranty for Peace of Mind
Gregory stands firmly behind the quality and durability of the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box with a comprehensive lifetime warranty. This assurance provides customers with confidence that their investment is protected and that their gear will remain secure and well-maintained for years to come. Whether you’re venturing into the wilderness or simply storing equipment at home, the lifetime warranty underscores Gregory’s commitment to delivering reliable, long-lasting products.
Pros and Cons of the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box
While the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box offers a plethora of impressive features, it’s important to consider both the advantages and potential drawbacks to make an informed decision. If I’m being 100%, I am stretching on trying to come up with cons, but I want to try to deliver the most accurate and unbiased review - though, I admit, I am biased. These are the jam!
Pros
1. Exceptional Waterproofing and Dustproofing:
The IP65 rating ensures that your gear remains dry and protected from dust, making it ideal for various outdoor conditions.
2. Clearview Lid for Easy Access:
The transparent polycarbonate lid allows for quick identification of contents without opening the box. Convenient AF.
3. Flexible Access with LOCKABLE FlipFlop Hinged Lid:
The ability to open the lid from either side provides versatile access, especially in tight or awkward spaces. Having slots to drop padlocks into and keep sticky fingers out is a huge benefit - especially to those with pickup trucks. Those slots are also about 1” long so a strap could pass through if you wanted to tie these things down.
4. Durable Construction:
Built from high-impact materials and 50% recycled content, the Alpaca 45 is designed to endure heavy use and harsh environments.
5. Efficient Water Drainage:
The water channeling and drainage design prevent water accumulation, adding an extra layer of protection for your gear.
6. Customizable Storage Solutions:
Compatibility with Alpaca Gear Pods allows for personalized organization, catering to a wide range of gear types.
7. Lifetime Warranty:
Gregory’s lifetime warranty offers peace of mind, ensuring long-term reliability and support.
8. Stackable Design:
Multiple boxes can be stacked neatly, optimizing storage space and maintaining organization.
Cons
1. Higher Price Point:
To some, the advanced features and durable construction of the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box come at a premium price, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. In the end, it’s just a storage container, right? Nope - I personally disagree. It’s a storage container on steroids that feels like it was built just for people like you and me.
2. Additional Cost for Gear Pods:
While the storage options are customizable, the Alpaca Gear Pods are sold separately, potentially increasing the overall investment needed for optimal organization. Again, this isn’t so much of a con because the gear pods are incredibly useful outside of being used with the gear box.
3. Size:
This is a brand new product, so it is only available in the 45L size. I would love to see a larger version of this in the future. Right now I use the popular 24 Gal Action Packer for my bigger items. It works, but I would like to get the features of the alpaca line in that size.
4. Limited Color Options:
Depending on user preference, the available color options for the gear box might be limited. It comes in 2 colors right now: Mirage Tan and Slate Blue. I think they nailed it with these. Again, not bright ass red like the Husky boxes, and by giving 2 options, it makes it easier to identify your boxes by color. “Kitchen in Blue. Sleeping Gear in Tan.”
Conclusion
The Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box transcends the typical storage solution, offering a robust, protective, and versatile container tailored to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and travelers. Its waterproof and dustproof construction ensures that your gear remains safe and dry, no matter the conditions. Innovative features like the lockable Clearview lid and FlipFlop hinged design provide unparalleled convenience and accessibility, while the durable build guarantees longevity even under the toughest circumstances. The customizable storage options with Alpaca Gear Pods allow for personalized organization, making it easier than ever to keep your gear in order.
Whether you’re braving the elements on a wilderness campout or simply seeking a dependable way to store your equipment at home, the Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box stands out as one of my personal favorites. Its lifetime warranty further reinforces its reliability, giving you the confidence to invest in a storage solution that won’t let you down. Ready to upgrade your gear storage? The Gregory Alpaca 45 Gear Storage Box is waiting to be your new adventure companion. Don’t leave your next expedition to chance—equip yourself with the best and embark with confidence.
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Some Not So Basic Car Camping Tips
The weekend is coming and you have an epic car camping trip lined up. Check out these car camping tips to make sure it's the best one yet!
I love car camping. You get to bring all the luxuries and still get to enjoy the best of nature. You know what I don't love - the packing, forgetting things, FOMO. We put together this list compiled of mistakes we have made in the past so that you don't have to go through the same thing. After all, we are heading out to the wilderness for some peace, quiet and relaxation, right?
Before you hit the road
1. Fill the tank
Don’t be that guy. There’s nothing worse than getting out on the Forest Service roads and watching the ominous gas light turn on. Start your trip off with a full tank of gas. You may also want to top it off before heading into the wilderness. Stay stress free, my friends. I carry a Rotopax 2 gallon tank that I fill with extra fuel on longer trips, but my Tacoma doesn’t get the best mpg.
2. Bring Lots of Water
Start your weekend with as many full water bottles and bladders as possible. Weight isn’t an issue since you won’t be lugging it around on your back, and having lots of water gives you peace of mind. Use every gas station, visitor center and restroom as an opportunity to top off. Part of my road-tripping kit is a Dometic Go Hydration Water Jug paired with their Faucet. At camp, this also serves as my Hand and dishwashing station.
3. Sleep like a king or Queen
Don’t skimp on the luxuries. You’re not backpacking here! Bring a thick air mattress, or a heated blanket, and maybe your favorite pillow. Bust out your favorite book before bedtime. Heck, hang an iPad and snooze off to an episode of Ozark.
How to Pick Out the Perfect Campsite When Car Camping
4. Don’t Limit Yourself to Paid Campgrounds
The states are loaded with beautiful free campsites - you just need know where to look. One of the beauties of public land is that you can camp for free, right near your car. Follow these guidelines to choose a site, and be sure to check with the local land management agency for specific regulations.
5. Check if you need a Fire Permit
If you think you’ll want to make a fire, get a permit in advance from your local land management agency. Just because the campsite has a fire pit doesn’t necessarily mean fires are allowed. Know how to properly start, maintain and make sure your campfire is dead out.
When you get to your perfect campsite
6. Save your car battery
You’ll probably be opening the doors frequently, so save your battery by keeping the indoor lights in the “permanently off” position, and carry jumper cables in case of a dead battery. I always have a car jumper kit stowed away. This thing has saved my butt more times than I would like to admit.
7. Don’t make your campsite a yard sale
No need to unpack every last item: leave some things, like your daypack, extra food, and extra clothes, in the car. This helps you stay organized and ensures you have some reserve supplies in the rare event that critters steal your food or weather jacks up some of your gear.
Car Camping Tips for Setting Up Camp
8. Pick a Safe Spot for Your Tent
Scan the site for dead or overhanging branches and trees - you don’t want to pitch your tent underneath these things. Set up your tent in a flat, well-drained area. Bonus points if you can have your opening facing some epic scenery. Even though many tents have 2 vestibules, I usually only use one side to minimize the chance of debris or rain getting inside the tent.
9. Be The camp chef
Find a flat, sheltered spot 150 feet from your tent to pitch a tarp or canopy like the Kelly blah (if you’re expecting rain) and set up your stove. I set my kitchen under my FRO awning up against the truck. Use a proper kitchen table, chill your beer or wine in the stream (check alcohol restrictions for the land management agency), and get ready for a gourmet dinner.
Some Bomb Car Camping Tips
10. Don’t be a Litterbug
It’s important to practice Leave No Trace (LNT) by packing out all of your garbage. we started using the Litter Gitter by Kelty which helps to stay clean and organized as well as cutting down on tic garbage bags. If you’re in a place with access to waste bins, like trailheads or visitor centers, take the opportunity to chuck some in here. This will keep your car from getting stanky.
11. Store Food in the Car
Storing food and cooking equipment in the car prevents hungry critters from setting up shop on your site. Bring a cooler and sealed containers for opened foods: this keeps them fresh and lowers the stink factor. We have started using reusable storage bags and food storage containers by hydra flask. They help keep the food fresh, are super durable and come in some pimp colors for photos. If you really want to go all in, check out a portable camp freezer like the Dometic CFX45. We are big fans of outdoor cooking and having one of these is a game changer over using a traditional cooler. It is way cleaner, and cheaper in the long run - plus you never have to worry about water getting into any of your foods.
12. Tetris TF out of your car
Develop a mental map of where everything is in your car. You don’t need to be overly meticulous and annoying, but using proper bins or bags goes a long way. for soft items, I use Gregory Duffel Bags like the Supply Duffel 60 or Alpaca 60. For other items, I use the Rubbermaid Action Packer bins. A lot of people swear by this REI packing cube system but I personally haven't used them yet. Because I have a pickup truck, it’s rad that these can be locked with a quick combo master lock. Starting and staying organized as you go allows you to spend more time enjoying the outdoors and less time rummaging around for that spork that you swear is under the driver’s seat, but come to think of it, it might be in the glove compartment…
Car Camping Tips for packing up your site
13. Leave it as Clean or cleaner than you found it
Pick up all trash left behind by previous hooligans (especially in the fire pit). I agree, it’s no fun, but people will sometimes just be people. if you love the outdoors, be the better person and pick up what can. I thank you on behalf of all of the a-holes.
14. Spread some love
On your way out, stop by the visitor center or ranger station to tell the staff how much you enjoyed your visit and to thank them for all the work they do to keep these areas open and accessible. To do their jobs they sacrifice a lot. a small gesture of appreciation can go a long way!
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