Inate Shiru

While some people seem to have the whole “food on the trail” thing down to a science, I’m probably with the majority of people who find food preparation one of the more stressful parts of planning for a backpacking or hiking journey. Getting out the stove, preparing a little meal, and cleaning everything up isn’t always what I feel like doing after a grueling trek. I just want to plop down and eat something, which the Innate Shiru Vacuum Food Container makes doable. The Shiru is an insulated food container and cup system that can keep food or soup warm for up to five hours. On a recent camping trip, we prepared some hot chicken noodle soup before heading off to the campsite and poured it into the Shiru. Five hours later the soup was still warm and ready to eat. No messy setup and cleanup, we got right to diggin’ in. But what if your journey isn’t so clear cut that you can make it from the microwave to the camp site within five hours? In these situations, the Shiru becomes even more valuable. Say you’re out on the trail and stop for lunch. Instead of preparing just one meal, double up the portions and make enough for dinner as well. Store the extra food in the Shiru, and it’ll still be hot five hours later. No need to get out your JetBoil or pocket rocket again. No need to clean up another set of dirty dishes. Just bust out the Shiru and relax.

So how does the Shiru work? The main construction boasts a vacuum insulated 304, 18/8 stainless steel container, which keeps the hot stuff hot, and the cold air out. But what really sets it apart is the unique drinking cup/lid that contains additional insulation. With many food storage containers that skimp on

Inate Shiru

the lid insulation and construction, heat will simply escape through the top. The Shiru provides a completely insulated enclosure to maximize the time your food will remain hot. At only 13 oz (350ml) in weight, the Shiru has a capacity of 12 fl oz (369g). It’s light enough to be a mainstay in your backpacking kit, but don’t be surprised if your work lunch pail gets jealous. Luckily they’re only $18, so you can buy two and spread the love. –Josh Turner produces and hosts the web show CampingGearTV.com, featuring camping and backpacking gear reviews. The show is also known for actionable advice on fending off bears using unorthodox and impractical methods. For more on their “Cheap Wal-Mart Gear” experiment, visit CampingGearTV.com.