Camping is a pastime that has long been known to be a favorite of many families. Many people don’t go camping because it sounds hard, but it really isn’t. Having the right tips can erase this negative approach. Continue reading to get advice that will make your camping trip more enjoyable.
Anytime you buy a tent, be sure to practice setting it up and taking it down in your backyard prior to actually camping. You can be sure there are no missing pieces and learn ahead of time the correct way to set your tent up. It can reduce the frustration that you could experience setting up the tent as well.
Make sure to find your shelter before it gets dark. Once blackness falls out there in the woods, it can be extremely difficult to pitch a tent, find good firewood and prepare food. This is particularly important if you are not used to doing things in the dark. Don’t get into this situation, look for proper shelter before you get to this point.
Don’t be afraid of bringing too much if you have kids. Camping can be messy. Children love the dirt. So, you are likely to be dealing with grimy kids all day long. The solution is not to stop them from getting dirty, but to have clean clothes ready for them after they are done. Stay ahead of the game!
Go to a class to learn about first aid. This way, should an accident occur, at least you are properly prepared until help arrives. Never forget to research. You should be aware of the poisonous snakes, wild animals, etc., that inhabit the area.
Understand your medical coverage. You may need another policy if you’re going to a different state. If you plan to travel to a different country, such as Canada, then its is especially important. Be sure that your insurance will cover you, no matter where you are.
Proper planning and preparation can keep you safe and make your camping experience more enjoyable. Make sure you always go camping only after preparing yourself fully. If you are camping somewhere new, research the area to familiarize yourself with the climate, wildlife and other factors.
While kids often have fun when camping, make sure to make plans to keep them entertained. They could get bored out in the woods and away from the things they use to entertain themselves regularly. Children may not be familiar with activities like pitching a tent or fishing. If you don’t normally spend time outside, show them before you go camping.
Set your campsite, tent and sleeping bags up before it gets dark. If you’re driving an RV, find a safe parking spot. Pitch your tent on land that is flat and dry. Making sure this is all done before dark gives you time to become familiar with the area. You can see how to set up your camp, which will save a good deal of frustration.
Duct Tape
Don’t forget the duct tape. Just like around the home, it has many uses while camping. It can be used to repair holes in air mattresses. It can also be used on your tarp or tent. You can also protect your feet against blisters while hiking long distances by putting duct tape on them. You can even use it to bandage up injuries.
Use specialty camping pillows when camping. Don’t bring the pillows you use in your bedroom. These pillows can trap heat during humid weather. They may also get mildew from all the moisture outside. Pillows specifically designed for camping will not draw in wetness like regular pillows will.
Make a list and check it twice before packing for your camping excursion. This can be of particular importance if you are traveling a long distance and will be in more remote locations. Start getting things together a couple of days before you plan to leave, and check things off the list as you pack them.
Trail mix is a classic snack and for a good reason. Throw a little beef jerky, a few fruits, and you’ve got yourself a full camper’s meal. These grab-and-go snacks are great for taking on a hike or as a snack after a long day when you don’t feel like preparing a meal. These kinds of foods do not spoil quickly, so you can always save them for a later time.
Before you go camping in a new place, it is essential to have an understanding of what dangers are located there. You should know if there are deadly spiders found there, or if sheer cliffs or flash floods occur there. Every camping area has its dangers.
Pack carefully and efficiently. Create a checklist of what you’re going to be bringing along and check things off while you’re packing them. If you are going deep into the bush or backcountry where emergency supplies and services are inaccessible, then you really need to make sure you have first aid material and related equipment.
Don’t make the mistake of waiting until dark to pitch your tent. Pitching a tent can be difficult enough in the daylight, let alone in the dark of night. A flashlight or fire will help you out. Making the effort to do the work before the sun goes down will make for a more enjoyable trip.
Bring along some interesting activities when planning a camping trip with kids. Far from civilization, kids tend to get bored. They have probably never fished or set up tents. If they have not spent much time outdoors, show them the basics before you leave.
Select a sleeping bag that works with the temperature and season. Choose a lighter bag for summer months, as an example. When it’s wintertime, it’s a good idea to get a thicker bag so you’re not too cold.
A common mistake with newer campers is to set their site up near bathrooms. While this might be convenient, you’ll soon find out differently. For example, there is a lot of foot traffic in these areas, as well as bright lights. Consequently, campers that pitch their tents near communal campsite bathrooms have neither the convenience nor the comfort that they may have expected.
Take extra precautions if you are camping in any area that has very dangerous wildlife. You have to wrap your food tightly and keep them away from the tent; some foods, you may have to forget. This will help prevent wild animals from being tempted to visit your campsite.
Camping is an easy thing to do now, isn’t it? No matter your skill level, you can advance very quickly. Use what you have learned from this article and apply it to your next camping trip. Soon you’ll be closer to nature on a great adventure.