Traveling with a hookah to nature.

To set up a hookah in an outdoor setting, no specialized skills or equipment are required. The key factor is to consider the unique characteristics of the chosen location during the preparing process. This article will outline the necessary items to bring along and provide guidance on selecting an appropriate hookah for camping.

Essentials for an outdoor smoking kit

Unlike the comforts of home or a shisha bar, outdoor environments lack standard amenities such as electric stoves or convenient tables. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure the hookah is safely transported to and from the site. To prevent any issues before, during, and after the smoking experience, it is advisable to pack six essential items.

1. Portable hookah
   In our hookah store hookahs are generally categorized into four sizes:
   • Micro: up to 20cm in height.
   • Small: ranging from 20 to 40 cm in height.
   • Medium: measuring between 40 and 60 cm.
   • Large: above 60 cm in height.
     It is important to note that large hookahs are unsuitable for outdoor use due to their cumbersome nature and the requirement for a stable surface and calm weather for setup. Medium-sized hookahs offer better portability but may not fit comfortably in a backpack. Small hookahs are the optimal choice for outdoor excursions, as they occupy minimal space in a bag, require less tobacco for preparation, and are easy to clean. Some popular models for hiking include:
     - Amotion Roam
     - Alpha Smart
     - Ocean Kaif S
     For those unfamiliar with mini hookahs, it is essential to be aware of their specific characteristics:
     - Short shaft: The likelihood of water from the base flooding the hose is higher, necessitating careful consideration of the liquid volume.
     - Compact design: Mini hookahs heat up rapidly, making temperature control more challenging compared to larger models. It is advisable to limit the use of heat to no more than two cubes of coals and to utilize heat-resistant smoking mixes.
2. Turbo nozzle and gas burner
   In outdoor settings, conventional stoves for heating coals are typically unavailable. A fire serves as a viable alternative for heating coals; however, one must ensure that the coals do not become lost among the regular ones. If an open fire was not part of your initial plan and creating one solely for the purpose of using a hookah seems overly labor-intensive, it is advisable to bring along a gas burner for heating the coals.
   For those traveling to rural areas by car, it is possible to purchase an adapter for the vehicle's cigarette lighter, allowing for the connection of a small stove. Care should be taken to avoid dropping the hot coals onto the car seat.
3. Coal for a hookah in nature
   Briquetted coal is distinguished from the more commonly used cube form by its larger size. These briquettes are produced from coconut shells through a pressing process, resulting in no significant differences beyond their shape.
   One notable advantage of briquetted coal is its ability to retain heat for an extended period. After preparing the hookah, the briquette remains hot for approximately 15 minutes. However, the initial heating process is time-consuming, typically requiring 30 to 40 minutes for a hookah smoker.
4. Molasses catcher
   This accessory is seldom utilized in domestic settings, as the immediate washing of the hookah post-smoking is generally feasible. However, in outdoor environments, the absence of a sink means that the device may remain unclean for one to two days, making it challenging to remove the dried residue.
   To mitigate the difficulties associated with cleaning, hookah enthusiasts often employ a molasses catcher—a compact device that attaches beneath the hookah bowl. This device prevents syrup from entering the hookah base and shaft, resulting in a significantly cleaner apparatus after use.
   In addition to facilitating easier cleaning, the molasses catcher allows for the preparation of a second hookah with a different type of tobacco without the need for prior rinsing. One simply needs to clean the bowl or replace it with a new one.
5. Wind cover
   A cost-effective yet essential accessory that shields the coals from wind exposure. Even a gentle breeze can cause the coals to cool rapidly.
   It is important to note that the wind cover is beneficial not only for outdoor use but also indoors. Within the home, it serves to prevent coals from dropping onto the floor and minimizes the risk of sparks dispersing.
6. Table or board
   For hookahs exceeding 50 cm in height and lacking a stable base, it is prudent to bring along a solid, flat surface. A table is ideal, but a cutting board can also suffice.

How to prepare a hookah in nature

We recommend bringing an ample supply of water. Utilizing water from a lake or river is not advisable due to potential contamination. Additionally, juice and tea are unsuitable if immediate cleaning of the base is not possible.

Step-by-step instructions for assembling a hookah:

1. Fill the hookah base with water.
2. Attach the shaft and hose.
3. Clean the bowl with a cloth and fill it with tobacco, as the specific type of tobacco is not critical.
4. Cover the bowl with foil and puncture holes across the surface if a HMS is not being used.
5. Ignite the coals, ensuring to bring tongs for safe handling. The coals should be uniformly bright red.
6. Place the coals on the bowl, utilizing a HMD for this purpose.
7. Create a cap from foil or use a pre-purchased one, ensuring it rises 5-7 cm above the coals.
8. Allow 3-5 minutes for the smoking mix to heat up.

Methods for igniting hookah coals outdoor:

Let us explore four common methods for heating coconut coals in an outdoor setting:

1. Turbo lighter: This device resembles a standard lighter but boasts enhanced power sufficient for heating coal. It operates using a gas cylinder. While it is compact, it can be somewhat cumbersome, as the coal must be held with tongs while the flame is directed upwards.
2. Gas burner: An excellent choice for outdoor use, it is advisable to bring along a metal saucer. Place the coal cubes on the saucer and turn them periodically as they heat. Alternatively, the coals can be positioned on a sturdy, non-flammable surface such as stone or brick.
3. Electric stove: This option is suitable if there is access to electricity outdoors or if you have arrived by vehicle. However, in the latter case, only low-power, compact stoves are recommended.
4. Campfire: This is the most accessible and economical method. Coals heat rapidly over an open flame, necessitating careful observation of their color to prevent them from disintegrating.

Cleaning a hookah after use outdoor:

The process of cleaning a hookah outdoors mirrors that of cleaning it at home. Initially, allow all components to cool slightly before disassembling the device. Rinse the tubes, shaft, and base with water, using a brush to effectively remove even the most stubborn residue. If available, baking soda can be utilized to thoroughly clean the base and eliminate any lingering odors.

Transporting a hookah:

For expensive models, it is advisable to use specialized cases designed for hookah storage. These cases resemble sturdy suitcases and feature foam padding with compartments or rubber fasteners to securely hold the hookah components, thereby minimizing the risk of damage.
A more economical alternative to a case is a carrying bag, which is often provided with compact hookahs intended for outdoor use. However, this option has the drawback of allowing the parts to move freely within the bag. While the hookah is unlikely to break during transport, there is a possibility of scratches and bends in the hose.
For those with a camping hookah, it is essential to invest in a suitable carrying solution.

When engaging in outdoor hookah smoking, it is essential to keep several key considerations in mind to enhance your experience. Here are some recommendations:

Avoid excessive use of tobacco and take shallow inhales. The fresh air can make smoking feel easier, which may increase the likelihood of dizziness.
Ensure you bring ample water. It is crucial to refrain from using water from rivers or lakes due to potential contamination. To facilitate proper preparation and cleaning of the hookah, it is advisable to carry at least 5-10 liters of clean water.
Do not set the hookah directly on the ground. The uneven surface can lead to the device tipping over with even a slight breeze. However, cube hookahs, designed specifically for outdoor use, may be an exception.
During the summer months, consider submerging the base in water. This will provide additional cooling, resulting in a more refreshing smoke.
Keep the hookah away from open flames and direct sunlight. These conditions can raise the temperature, leading to the overheating of the tobacco.
Immediately rinse the hookah after use. Any type of water will suffice, including river water, as long as it effectively removes tobacco and syrup residues. Delaying this cleaning process can make it significantly more challenging to remove dried remnants later.
Extinguish the coals properly. Leaving them hot poses a fire risk, as the wind can easily carry sparks.

In summary, you are now equipped with the knowledge to enjoy hookah smoking outdoors. The process is straightforward, provided you have the appropriate equipment, sufficient water, and a suitable container for the coals. The outdoor experience is not vastly different from smoking at home, with the primary distinctions lying in the tools and materials used.