Build A Table Box for Campers - Combine Packing and Dining

A Practical Table Box for Campers - The Perfect Combination of Packing and Dining

Discover the ultimate solution for campers—a versatile table box crafted from a large coffee or similar-sized box. While a box with a three-ply top adds a touch of neatness, it is not crucial. Opt for a box with outside measurements of 14 inches deep, 20 inches wide, and 29 inches long, as it conveniently allows a person's knees to comfortably pass underneath when used as a table.

Follow these steps to create your camp table:

1. Begin by sawing the box in half along its center line, creating two uncovered boxes of equal size and depth.
2. Be sure the corners of each box are well braced on the outside, as demonstrated at point A in Figure 1.
3. Attach strips labeled B to the inside of the box, forming sockets marked C, where the legs will be inserted.

The strips should measure 1/2 inch thick, 1-1/4 inches wide, and match the box's depth in length. Use four legs, approximately 12 inches long, sized to fit snugly in the sockets. These legs will hold the boxes together during transportation. Attach rope handles at the ends of each box, along with a hook and eye mechanism to secure them together.

To pack the boxes, place one half open side up and insert the legs as shown in Figure 2. Fill it with your belongings, extending the packing to the level of the leg ends. Then, slip the other half of the box onto the legs and fasten the two halves with the hooks. When properly roped, this box can be conveniently treated as baggage. Pack items like canvas and other articles that will be immediately removed upon arriving at the camp, rather than provisions. This allows for quick and effortless conversion into a table.

To transform the box into one or two tables, remove the packing legs and insert longer legs into the sockets of each section. A set of eight legs measuring 30 inches in length occupies minimal space and can be diagonally carried at the bottom of the box. Wrap them with a piece of oilcloth that can later serve as a table cover.

It is recommended that the legs fit loosely in the sockets to account for swelling in damp weather. However, they can be wedged to ensure stability when necessary. Refer to Figure 3 for an illustration of the table.

Enjoy the convenience and practicality of this table box, providing you with both efficient packing and a functional dining experience during your camping adventures.