I was reading a post today about how to clean a camelbak, or any other similiar bladder.  I bought a Platypus Big Zip years ago and I've never looked back.  At first I had my doubts about using what seemed to be a glorified zip-lock bag, but when you start playing with it you find the zipper really does hold up.  The Big Zip makes it extremely easy to clean the majority of the bladder.  I'm a big guy, but I can put my whole arm in there to clean it.  That doesn't do any good for the hose though.  I've used the CamelBak Cleaning Kit with good results, but the only part of it I still use is the cleaning brushes to get the hose clean.

So, I'd like to make two suggestions when it comes to cleaning a bladder.  First, buy some Polident - it works just as well as the CamelBak cleaning tablets for a fraction of the price.  Second, just put your bladder in the freezer when you are done with it and you won't have to clean it often.  As soon as I get back from a hike, I rinse mine out and put the whole thing in the freezer.  I've been doing this for years without any problems.  You still will need to clean it occasionally but the freeze keeps anything from growing in it.

I enjoy camping, but I'm not a big fan of camping in cold weather.  Partially because its cold, and partially because my friends won't go camping when its cold.  And camping alone is kind of boring to me.  That said, when it starts to warm up I can't wait to get out on the trail.  First things first though, I've got to go through all my gear.  I have to make sure everything is cleaned, conditioned, seam-sealed, and organized so I can find what I need quickly. 

Inevitably I find one or two items that I don't use anymore and wonder what to do with them.  If you have that same problem, let me introduce you to GearTrade. Their site says they are "bringing outdoor freaks together to buy and sell gear".  All you have to do is register for a free account, then post the items you want to sell.  Its not hard - post some item specs, pictures, and your asking price.  If someone buys your gear, GearTrade takes a small commission and you are guaranteed to get paid.  It's well worth the time.  And its nice to know that the gear will get used instead of laying around in my closet.