Tobiasly’s Blog

I’m starting to get several emails from a few of you soldiers who will be heading to Camp Kalsu before long. Most are questions about what to bring, living conditions, etc., so I’ll try to answer some of those here (due to OPSEC reasons, I won’t get too specific; I’ll try to answer any other questions you might have over email, especially if you have a .mil return address).

It probably isn’t as bad here as you may have been hearing. All tents now have wooden floors and 220-volt electricity (which is pretty reliable), with lots of tents having 110-volt converters as well (although if you have your own converter, definitely bring it). So bring any sort of electrical appliance you want; I’d only caution against having too many space heaters (we’ve melted several adapters by trying to use too many, although it will be getting warmer soon). For when it does get warmer, most tents also have A/C.

I would recommend bringing building materials/tools if possible, since you’ll probably want to make changes or repairs to what’s here, or build tables and other furniture.

You will have to walk through mud and/or gravel to get to the showers, so get a good pair of shower shoes. The showers are heated, but require pretty frequent attention. However, there should be a new shower unit up and running soon.

A piece of scrap carpet is good to have for your area, as well as one of those cloth folding chairs you can get at Wal-Mart or the PX for seven bucks or so. You’ll also want as large a cooler as possible to keep drinks cold.

Lastly, I would bring a decent amount of cash, smaller bills if possible, to buy stuff like sodas, cigarettes/cigars, food, DVDs, etc. from the locals.

Hope this helps, and I’ll be seeing you soon!