The Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set Made a Bold First Impression
The Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set promises a minimalist approach to camp kitchenware, targeting outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize space and weight savings. Survive Outdoors Longer, known for their innovative survival gear, aims to provide a practical and packable solution for cooking and food preparation. I was eager to see if this set could truly deliver on its promises of convenience and durability in the demanding environments I often find myself in.
For years, I’ve struggled with bulky, space-hogging cookware on backpacking trips. Traditional bowls and strainers are incredibly awkward to pack, often leaving me with less room for essential gear like extra socks or crucial first-aid supplies. The promise of a flat-packing solution was incredibly appealing and motivated my purchase.
Upon unboxing, the Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set immediately impressed me with its compact size. The bowls and strainer are made from a flexible, food-grade silicone that feels surprisingly robust. The nested design contributes to its incredibly thin profile when collapsed.
I considered alternatives like collapsible silicone buckets or heavier, nesting stainless-steel bowl sets. The Survive Outdoors Longer set won out due to its dedicated strainer and the overall lighter weight than the steel options. The flat-pack design was far more appealing than trying to compress a bucket.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the material felt durable, and the collapsing mechanism seemed effective. I wondered how it would hold up to real-world use and the rigors of a backpacking trip, especially with hot liquids. Would the flat-pack design truly be practical in the field, or would it prove to be a flimsy gimmick?
Real-World Testing: Putting Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set during a five-day solo backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was predictably unpredictable, with a mix of sunshine, rain, and even a brief hailstorm. This trip provided a perfect environment to assess the set’s performance in varied conditions.
The set performed admirably, handling everything from boiling water for rehydrating meals to straining pasta after a stream-side cook-up. The silicone remained stable even with near-boiling water poured into the bowls. Using the strainer in a fast-moving stream was surprisingly easy; its wide base and sturdy construction prevented it from tipping over.
The bowls were easy to use right out of the package, expanding into full-size containers with minimal effort. The strainer likewise popped into shape effortlessly. After the first use, I noticed a slight learning curve in collapsing them properly, ensuring they packed flat.
My initial concern about the silicone retaining odors proved unfounded, as a quick rinse with soap and water eliminated any lingering food smells. One small surprise was how easily the silicone attracted dirt and pine needles. However, this was a minor inconvenience easily remedied by a quick wipe.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use on various camping and backpacking trips, the Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set has proven to be a reliable addition to my camp kitchen. The set shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being crammed into backpacks and exposed to rough terrain. The silicone remains flexible and resilient, showing no cracks or tears.
Cleaning and maintenance are incredibly easy. The silicone is dishwasher-safe (although I prefer handwashing it in the field), and a quick scrub removes any food residue. I’ve found that storing the set flat helps maintain its shape and prevents any potential warping.
Compared to my previous experiences with bulky, hard-plastic bowls, the Survive Outdoors Longer set is a game-changer. It packs significantly smaller, is lighter, and offers the added benefit of a built-in strainer. It outperforms my expectations in terms of packability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set
Specifications
The Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set features a durable, food-grade silicone construction designed for lightweight packability. The set includes two collapsible bowls and one collapsible strainer, all designed to nest together for compact storage. The collapsed dimensions are approximately 8 x 8 x 1.5 inches, and the entire set weighs around 8 ounces.
The bowls each hold approximately 20 fluid ounces (600ml) when fully expanded. The strainer features a fine mesh pattern suitable for straining small particles, and its wide base provides stability. The silicone material is BPA-free and heat-resistant up to 248°F (120°C).
These specifications are critical for backpackers and campers who need to minimize weight and space. The heat resistance of the silicone allows for use with hot foods and liquids. The BPA-free material ensures food safety.
Performance & Functionality
The Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set performs its intended job exceptionally well. The bowls provide a stable and convenient platform for eating meals, while the strainer effectively separates liquids from solids. The collapsible design works flawlessly, allowing for significant space savings in a pack.
The set’s strengths lie in its packability, lightweight design, and ease of use. One minor weakness is the silicone’s tendency to attract dirt and debris. A more textured surface might help mitigate this.
Overall, the Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set meets and even exceeds expectations. Its design is simple, practical, and perfectly suited for outdoor adventures.
Design & Ergonomics
The Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set design is simple and functional, prioritizing packability. The food-grade silicone is both lightweight and durable. The nested design is ingenious, allowing the entire set to collapse into a slim profile.
The set is incredibly user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The bowls and strainer expand and collapse easily, making them a breeze to use in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
The Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set is built to last, with the durable silicone able to withstand repeated use and packing. With proper care, this set should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning with soap and water. The dishwasher-safe silicone adds to the convenience.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set comes as a complete set, and there are no specific accessories or customization options offered by Survive Outdoors Longer. Its simple design makes it compatible with virtually any camp cooking setup. The bowls can be paired with any standard-size spork or utensil.
Pros and Cons of Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set
Pros
- Incredibly packable and saves significant space in a backpack.
- Lightweight design minimizes overall pack weight.
- Durable silicone construction ensures longevity.
- Easy to clean and maintain, both in the field and at home.
- Versatile strainer allows for various cooking and cleaning tasks.
Cons
- Silicone material attracts dirt and debris.
- Limited heat resistance compared to metal cookware (although sufficient for most camp cooking needs).
Who Should Buy Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set?
The Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set is perfect for backpackers, campers, and anyone who prioritizes lightweight and compact gear. It’s ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small groups who need a minimalist camp kitchen setup.
Those who require heavy-duty cookware for high-heat cooking or those who prefer the aesthetics and durability of metal might want to skip this product. If you are solely car camping and weight is not a concern, a traditional set would suffice.
A simple camp soap and a quick-drying towel are must-have accessories for cleaning the set in the field. No other modifications are needed; it’s ready to go right out of the package.
Conclusion on Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set
The Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set is an excellent addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear collection. Its packability, lightweight design, and durability make it a standout product in the crowded camp kitchen market.
The price of $15.49 is more than justified given the set’s performance and convenience. This product delivers exceptional value for money.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Survive Outdoors Longer Flat Pack Bowls and Strainer Set. It’s a simple yet effective solution that significantly improves the backpacking and camping experience. Pack lighter, travel further, and enjoy your meals in the great outdoors! Don’t hesitate – add this to your pack today!