TV relies heavily on outdoor reality shows, so it is hardly a wonder camping has become so popular. If you are one of these people and you want some tips and strategies on how to have a fun and safe camping adventure, continue reading for some great advice.
Your sleeping bag should be seasonally appropriate. Bringing a sub-zero type of sleeping bag to use on a trip in the summer will make you sweat the entire night. On the other hand, light-weight sleeping supplies will never keep you warm enough in the dead of winter. Without protection, you are running the risk of developing hypothermia.
You might think that you can find all of the wood that you need to keep the fire going, but there is a good chance that the wood will be wet. It’s a great idea to carry your own wood with you and to keep it secure in a dry area.
Anytime you buy a tent, be sure to practice setting it up and taking it down in your backyard prior to actually camping. That way, you can make sure you have everything you need to set up the tent, including knowledge of how to do it properly. This kind of “dry run” also helps lower your frustration level when setting up the tent at the campsite
Bring things like a bandanna and handkerchief along with you. These can be used for several things, like drying your hands or holding a hot pot. There are a lot of different uses for it, so make sure you bring one on every camping trip with you.
After you buy your camping tent, set it up at home rather than waiting until your trip to set it up for the first time. You can be sure there are no missing pieces and learn ahead of time the correct way to set your tent up. This kind of “dry run” also helps lower your frustration level when setting up the tent at the campsite
A surprising tip you may not know about is that the lint from your dryer also doubles as great kindling for your camp fire. Start saving this lint a short time period prior to going camping and you’ll have enough lint in time. Place the lint you normally throw in the trash in a plastic bag to take with you. Your kindling will be easily accessible when you are leaving for your destination.
Be certain you have everything you will need before embarking on your adventure. You would be pretty irritated if it turned out that you left your sleeping bag or tent back at home. Use a check list that you can use to double check, to be sure that you have everything before you leave home.
Make sure that the tent you take camping has enough space for everyone you are taking along. This ensures the most comfortable sleeping arrangement and allows you to move about without disturbing others.
Don’t go far from home during your first couple of camping trips. You could run into problems with your gear, or decide to cut the trip short. Others may find that they have a shortage of food or their clothing isn’t appropriate. Many issues can occur for new campers, so you should camp near home your first time.
Plan several activities to do while camping. Card games, fishing poles or games like a scavenger hunt can be very entertaining in the wild. If kids are coming along for the trip, take even more entertainment with you to keep them from getting bored without their electronics.
Before you leave home to go camping, check to see if inclement weather is predicted in the area you are planning to visit. You can visit http://www.weather.com to check the weather just about anywhere. Be sure to look at the 10 day forecast along with extended weather patterns. When you know what to expect, you will have the right clothes packed.
Try to refrain from draining your flashlight when camping. It’s possible to accidentally hit the “on” button on your flashlight. To avoid this, store the batteries backwards in your flashlights. This prevents accidental switch nudges so that they will remain fresh when you need them.
Take along a current picture of any kids you have camping with you. If you lose them during your trip, that picture can help you immensely. Be sure that you have one on hand if you are far from home so that you are fully prepared.
The way you prepare will determine whether your camping trip will be fun or if it will be dangerous. Always fully prepare before you head out on a camping trip. If you are camping somewhere new, research the area to familiarize yourself with the climate, wildlife and other factors.
You must always pack a survival kit and first aid kit. Without such kits, you may have to end your camping trip early if an unfortunate incident occurs. Being prepared also keeps minor emergencies from becoming major emergencies.
People who don’t pack food correctly risk food poisoning. Any food that is not canned, preserved, or vacuum sealed is at risk of spoiling or causing food poisoning. Ice is important as it will help to keep your food chilled and fresh.
If you are going camping, be sure to have a first aid kit. What you include will depend on where you are going and when. Antivenom is another important component to bring with you, depending on the area where you visit.
While it may seem silly, make sure that you pack some toilet paper before you go camping. If your campsite lacks toilet facilities, you will need to use the woods. You certainly don’t want to be wiping yourself with leaves.
Think about how you are going to get food cooked at your campsite. Make sure that you decide on the food items that you will bring beforehand. Cooking over an open campfire can be tasty and fun, but if you are not prepared for it, it can be impossible.
Always become familiar with the potential dangers of a campsite before you enter it. For example, there might be poisonous spiders or dangerous trails. Many camping areas pose some dangers.
Save your dryer lint and bring it with you when you camp. As silly as it may sound, it’s a great way to start a campfire. The flames generated by lint are super-bright. Lint and a little spark will bring you a nice warm camp fire.
There are many things to take into consideration before camping. But you’re now likely feeling a little better prepared to handle the basics. You know what you can expect, so focus on enjoying yourself on your trip!
If a pet accompanies you to the campground, do not just let him or her run free. Some people are afraid of dogs. You should be respectful of other campers while at the site. Dogs can also damage campsites, or get into the belongings of your neighboring camps, without proper supervision.