Abstract: A combined backpack and tent, optionally including a ground mat for sleeping on. The ground mat connects at its corners to several lightweight spars which once assembled define an arcuate skeletal frame above the ground mat. A tent fabric may then be supported on the skeletal frame. The spars and optional tethers hold the skeletal frame in shape by tension. The spars are knock-down, comprising manually connectable and separable sections which when disassembled fit into the backpack.

Abstract: A coupling member for a sheet assembly. The coupling member includes a top portion and a bottom portion spaced from the top portion. A gap exists between the top and bottom portions. The gap is capable of receiving a portion of the sheet assembly therein. Also, at least one fastener is coupled to at least one of the top and bottom portions.

Abstract: A combined backpack and tent, optionally including a ground mat for sleeping on. The ground mat connects at its corners to several lightweight spars which once assembled define an arcuate skeletal frame above the ground mat. A tent fabric may then be supported on the skeletal frame. The spars and optional tethers hold the skeletal frame in shape by tension. The spars are knock-down, comprising manually connectable and separable sections which when disassembled fit into the backpack.

Abstract: A backpack system where a pack portion includes a compartment that has a flap coupled to the pack portion and configured to be selectively moved between an open position. The compartment is accessible and when in a closed position, the compartment is encased by the pack portion and the flap. The backpack system has a sleeping pad coupled to the pack portion where the sleeping pad is moveable between a stowed position and an extended position. The sleeping pad is maintained within the compartment when in the stowed position and the flap in the closed position.

Abstract: A connector plate for quickly and easily securing tent guide ropes and/or straps for facilitating a tent's assembly includes: a base portion, a trunk portion extending longitudinally from the base portion, and a number of branches extending radially from the trunk portion. The base portion has dimensions that are greater in the transverse direction than the longitudinal direction (that is, has a greater width than length) and defines therethrough a slot opening that receives a tent strap. The branches, which may be grouped as oppositely disposed pairs, terminate in geometric shaped end portions, around which end portions a tent guide rope may be wrapped. A method of assembling a tent using the present connector plate is also provided.

Abstract: A coupling member for a sheet assembly. The coupling member includes a top portion and a bottom portion spaced from the top portion. A gap exists between the top and bottom portions. The gap is capable of receiving a portion of the sheet assembly therein. Also, at least one fastener is coupled to at least one of the top and bottom portions.

Abstract: A protective sheet assembly includes a sheet member. The sheet member comprises a first layer and a second layer. The first layer is formed from a breathable material. The second layer is coupled to the first layer, and formed from a reflective member.

Abstract: A protective sheet assembly includes a sheet member. The sheet member comprises a first layer, a second layer and a third layer. The first layer is formed from a breathable material. The second layer is coupled to the first layer, and formed from a reflective member. The third layer is coupled to the second layer and formed from a breathable material.

Abstract: A storage and travel bag includes a collapsible bag having an enclosure defined by a bottom panel, a first end panel, a spaced second end panel, a front panel, a back panel and a top panel, wherein the first end panel, second end panel, front panel, back panel and top panel are movable between a collapsed position and an uncollapsed position. A support structure is disposed within the enclosure and configured to be movable between a supporting position, wherein the support structure supports at least one of the first end panel, second end panel, front panel, back panel and top panel in an uncollapsed position, and a collapsed position, wherein the first end panel, second end panel, front panel, back panel and top panel are movable to respective collapsed positions.