As more people watch reality TV shows that focus on the joys of outdoor life, it’s easy to understand why more people are becoming interested in camping. If you think it’s time to take an adventure of your own, learn a few tricks to make your experience into a great one.
Make sure that all of your friends and family are involved in choosing the camping site. Talk about which state to go to. The United States offers so many choices that choosing one can be hard! If it is the simpler option, try picking a few you favor and letting your whole family vote on them.
Check the weather updates for the camping site that you choose to go to. There are countless websites that contain information about what sort of weather you should expect at the area you are going camping at. Having a good idea of what the weather will be like will ensure that you pack accordingly for your trip.
Make sure that you both carry a survival kit and then get in the habit of always having it with you. You need to pack a flare gun, utility knife, matches and a first aid kit. You need this if you become lost or stranded; the items in your kit may save your life. Never let it leave your side.
Look at the weather forecast prior to leaving for your trip. You can find the average weather during a season for almost any location online. This information can help you better prepare for severe weather conditions.
Double check your medical insurance. If you go camping out of state, you may need to have coverage where you go. This can be even more important if you’re leaving to another country when you are camping, such as Canada. Make sure that you that you are prepared, just in case!
Camping can be very dangerous or fun depending on whether you’re prepared or not. Only go camping once you are fully prepared. If you are camping in a new location, research the local wildlife, geography and the climate before leaving home.
Keep a kerchief or bandanna close at hand. A bandana is very versatile and can be used as a blotter, potholder, mini-bag and more. It is very versatile, so be sure you take one with you every time you go camping.
Dryer lint is a great item to bring if you are trying to start a campfire. Several weeks prior to your trip, start gathering up everything that collects in your lint trap. To make it easy to collect dryer lint, simply hang a bag next to the dryer and fill with your lint. By doing this, you’ll be able to collect the kindling on the day you’re taking the trip.
Try to get your camp fully set up by nightfall. If you come to the camp site in an RV, find a parking spot immediately. When pitching a tent, a level, dry area is needed. As long as it is daylight, you should not have trouble with these tasks. Since you will know what you are doing, you’ll prevent frustration.
Purchase pillows that are made specifically for camping. Regular bed pillows will feel hot and sticky during humid weather. Standard pillows will take in moisture and could mold or mildew. Pillows designed for camping offer a coating that prevents moisture absorption.
Duct tape is a handy tool to carry when you are camping. It has several uses like fixing a hole in a tent and holding moisture.
Make sure you have all the gear you need before you leave your driveway. Forgetting something crucial like your sleeping bag or a fire starter is not something you want to happen. Check to make sure you have everything you need with a check list prior to going on your trip.
If you are a camping novice, you should initially stay near home. You could run into problems with your gear, or decide to cut the trip short. Maybe you’ll run low on food or not have enough clothing with you. Many issues can occur for new campers, so you should camp near home your first time.
Double check that you have all of your necessary equipment prior to your camping trip. For example, your trip can be ruined if you forget your sleeping bag or tent. Check and double check your list to ensure that you pack everything you need.
If you bring a dog camping with you, be sure to keep an eye on them and be sure they’re on a leash. There are those who have a fear of dogs. This will maximize the respect that you have for others while camping. Also, dogs can damage your campsite or another person’s campsite if they’re not watched carefully.
It is important to take even greater care storing food if you are planning to travel to an area with active and dangerous wildlife. Keep things tightly wrapped and store them away from the site of your tent; if needed, avoid certain types of food altogether. This will help prevent wild animals from being tempted to visit your campsite.
Make sure you have what you might need in case of any event. Make sure you have put a little thought into things in case the unexpected does occur. Also, be aware that the weather can be very unpredictable. It’s vital to everyone’s well being that no severe risks are taken and that all safety precautions are heeded.
When out in the wilds camping, it is smart to be prepared for just about anything. Even with a perfect plan, things can still go awry. Someone could get hurt, the weather could change drastically or people could get sick. You must always exercise great care, avoid risk and consider your actions always.
Before heading out to go camping, compile a checklist of items that you plan to bring. This can be of particular importance if you are traveling a long distance and will be in more remote locations. Start packing a couple of days in advance of camping, making sure to follow a checklist.
Pesky mosquito bites can be avoided with an orange peel. Don’t worry if you forgot your bug spray. You can simply rub the inside of the orange peel on any exposed skin. The mosquitoes should stay away from you for hours.
Sleeping Bag
Always pick an appropriate sleeping bag for the weather. For example, there are lightweight sleeping bag for warm weather and heavy sleeping bags for colder weather. If you are going in cold weather, you will want a sleeping bag that hugs your body.
It is generally a smart idea to leave your basecamp or car with a fully charged cell phone. It is an even better idea to bring extra batteries as an emergency backup. Your cell phone is the best piece of emergency equipment you have so make sure it doesn’t die on you.
Always keep a close eye on your kids. It is easy for children to get lost, and cars often come and go. Something could happen very quickly, so if you keep an eye on your kids, your supervision will help keep them safe.
An orange peel can help repel mosquitoes. If you forgot to bring your favorite brand of mosquito repellant, this remedy might save you from some discomfort. Just rub the inside of the peel over any exposed body parts. This can help for many hours.
When you put up your tent, seal the tent seams the best you can. If your tent kit did not contain a tube of sealant, it can be found at most sporting stores. This helps to keep animals, insects and rainwater out so you stay comfortable.
As indicated by this article, a camping trip requires some forethought and preparation. However, after reading this, you should be able to handle the basic stuff. You can have more fun since you know what you are getting yourself into.
