How about some time under the stars? There are many reasons why we enjoy a relaxing camping trip so much. While it may be fun, there is a lot to keep in mind when camping. You will find some wonderful advice on how to prepare for your next outing.
Although you might assume the woods will offer you plenty of firewood for your camping needs, nature may surprise you with rain-soaked logs or wood that will not easily ignite. It’s important that you bring extra wood with you that you can keep in a dry area.
Bring along a sleeping bag appropriate for the season. By bringing a winter sleeping bag in the summer you may end up sweating instead of sleeping. Alternatively, taking a light bag in the winter can lead to great discomfort. You might even get hypothermia.
Do not worry that you have packed too much stuff for the kids. Camping can be messy. Almost every child will want to play in the dirt or mud, constantly. Expect them to be all shades of dirty as the day moves on. While there is nothing you can do about that, you can have some extra clothing just in case. The key is being prepared.
A tent needs to be the proper size for all people staying in it. This makes it possible for everyone to sleep comfortably, and it also allows for room to move about and exit the tent if nature calls.
Let your family members all have a decision when it comes to choosing a campsite. This will make everyone feel invested. There are various options throughout the United States that it may make it hard to pick only one. Throw out your ideas to see if they stick with members of your family.
Take either a bandanna or handkerchief with you when you go camping. In a pinch, that single piece of fabric can serve as a potholder, carrying bag, blotter, hand towel and paper towel. It is very versatile, so be sure you take one with you every time you go camping.
Even when you’re trying to get away from the luxuries of life, it can help to bring something nice on your camping trip. Bring a lightweight, easy-to-carry item like good chocolate, cream for coffee or another reminder of home with you. You can really feel good on your trip when you bring these food items.
Learn to set up your tent prior to leaving on your trip. It will help you make sure that all of the parts are included and learn how to set it up right. This also makes setting up your tent at the campsite a much smoother process.
Make sure that you bring things to occupy yourself when camping. You might want to take a deck of cards or a list of things to look for during a scavenger hunt as well as a fishing pole. If you’re bringing along kids, it doesn’t hurt to go overboard when thinking of what to bring for fun.
If you camp in an area known to have dangerous wildlife, be sure to incorporate extra precautions to stow away food securely. Keep things tightly wrapped and store them away from the site of your tent; if needed, avoid certain types of food altogether. This will reduce the chance of an attack.
Pack what is necessary for your children. Camping can be a bit messy. Kids love to play in dirt. So, you are likely to be dealing with grimy kids all day long. While you can’t do much to prevent that, you can at least provide clean clothing, so long as you brought extra. Staying prepared is the best way to avoid issues on your trip.
You want to make sure that you don’t end up with drained flashlight batteries when you head out on your camping trip. You may accidentally turn on a flashlight while you’re looking through what you have packed for your trip. You can prevent your batteries from losing power by storing them backwards in your flashlight. It will keep the power from draining from the batteries and have them easily installed when you need it.
Prior to camping, write out a list of everything that you need to pack. For trips that take a while to arrive at the destination, this is crucial. Use your list to guide your packing and make sure to start packing a few days before the start of your trip.
Prior to heading out, be sure you are aware of the forecast for your destination. There are lots of excellent websites that you can use for a weather forecast and they can give you an idea of what to expect. Having a good idea of what the weather will be like will ensure that you pack accordingly for your trip.
Sleeping Bag
Make sure your sleeping bag is appropriate for the location. If the weather is warm, you want a lightweight bag. If frigid temperatures will be present, choose a sub-zero rated bag. You need a sleeping bag that fits snugly and keeps your body heat in if you’re going to sleep outside in a tent.
Preparation can make your camping trip easy and relaxing. Only go camping when you have prepared yourself for it. If you’re going somewhere you’ve never been, do a little research about the land. Find out the weather, wildlife and the layout of the land.
Know where your kids are at all times. There is quite a bit of traffic at campsites, and young kids can wander around in the woods, often getting lost. It can happen in an instant, so make sure they are always supervised.
Before you go camping, make sure to think about the clothes you will need for the trip. Make sure you pack enough appropriate clothing for the duration and activity planned for your outing. Be sure to also carry clothing that is weather and climate appropriate on your trip. Don’t forget to pack durable, comfortable shoes for walking.
It’s imperative that you locate a safe place to camp and pitch your tent before the sun goes down. If you come to the camp site in an RV, find a parking spot immediately. Search for flat, dry ground when camping in a tent. It is much easier to do these things during the day, and you can become familiar with the area. This can help you see what you are doing and prevent frustration.
Think about where to set up camp before you do. You want to avoid erecting your tent near a wasp’s nest or other insect habitats. If you’re near lots of vegetation, you should wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin from insects. Don’t forget to bring along the bug spray.
Utility knives are great to have when camping. It is even better if you have more than one. These pieces of equipment are quite versitile and can get you out of a lot of bad situations.
Duct tape is a handy tool to carry when you are camping. You can patch holes in your tent, your mattress or your shoes, or secure your tent poles, seal mosquito netting and much, much more.
Seal the seams on your tent when you’re putting it up. You can get a tube of sealant at a sporting goods store if you didn’t get any with your tent. By doing this, you will prevent wayward animals or rain from making it inside.
As discussed above, there are some things that you need to think about when planning a camping trip into the wilderness. Be certain to utilize the advice discussed above in order to have a safe, enjoyable time in the great outdoors.
You need to make sure you have everything you need when you go camping. Unfortunately, forgetting one or two key items can ruin your trip. Making a list and checking things off is a good way to remember everything. Some important things to put on the list are your tent, tarp, water, food, fire-starters, soap and sleeping bag.
