Trying new areas for camping can lead to new experiences, but you will need to be prepared in order to stay safe. The tips and tricks that we’ve provided to you here should help make your next trip much more enjoyable.
Let everyone of your family members have a say on where to go camping. Openly talk about the various options available to you. There are millions of options just in the United States, and it can sometimes be difficult to choose the perfect one! It may be easier to choose a few front runners and have family members vote.
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 will also allow you to feel more comfortable about setting up the tent later.
Make sure your tent is of ample size. This will ensure comfort while inside the tent.
Emergency kits are one of the most important things to bring on a camping trip. Always keep the bare basics with you in the kit, and make sure that you have water purification tablets in it as well. You may want to pack bear repellent or antivenom.
If you are a novice camper, choose a destination close to home for your first trip. That way, if problems arise, you won’t be too far from help. You may not have enough food, or realize that you didn’t pack the right clothing. First-time camping is a learning experience and anything can happen, so find a campground near your home.
Pack enough of the right kinds of food. Depending upon how long your trip will last, you should have plenty of food that won’t spoil over the course of your trip. Food poisoning will put a damper on your trip and force you to end it quickly. Make sure your food is prepared the right way to avoid the risk of spoilage.
Be prepared for anything when you go camping. Try to plan your camping trip as best you can, but know that unexpected events can arise. Weather problems, injuries and other unexpected things may occur. Is is essential that you pay attention at all times, not take anything for granted, avoid risks and plan everything carefully.
Sleeping Bags
Make sure that your sleeping bag is appropriate for where and when you are camping. When the weather is warm, light sleeping bags work best; heavier sleeping bags are also available for colder weather. You want a sleeping bag that is close to your body and helps you retain your body heat if you plan to sleep in a tent.
Select your campsite carefully. One thing to consider is whether or not there are insect nests in the space in which you want to set up. When staying near plants, use long sleeved shirts as well as pants; this avoids insect issues. Insect repellent is a life saver.
It is recommended you bring lots of beef jerky and/or trail mix when you go camping. After a busy day of hiking or other strenuous outdoor activities, you may be too tired to deal with campsite cooking. These snacks are healthy and nutrient-dense, making them a quick and easy source of nourishment. These items keep for a long time so it won’t be like your wasting food if you don’t use them.
Always make sure that you have a sharp knife with you when you go camping. One of the most useful camp items is a utility knife, so pack an extra one just in case one gets lost.
Make sure your cell phone is fully charged before leaving your car or campsite. Even better, tote an extra battery in case your first one dies. A mobile phone is an important part of camping safety these days, and you want it to be ready to go when you need it.
One of the most common problems campers have is food poisoning from spoiled or improperly handled food. If your food isn’t prepacked or canned, food poisoning might be a risk. Pack an adequate supply of ice for keeping perishable foods nice and cold and be sure to drain your cooler’s plug so the food doesn’t get soaked.
As silly as it may seem, be sure to pack toilet paper with you on your camping trip. When camping at a facility without public bathrooms, you will need to do your business outside. Leaves may have poison on them, as you will want to use toilet paper to wipe.
Be safe with food when you go camping. Use the correct containers to pack and store food in. Insulated coolers are where the food should be stored. Cooked food should be kept separate from raw in order to prevent cross-contamination. Before you handle your food, clean your hands properly with soap or other sanitizers, and clean the food prep surfaces. Always cook and store foods at the proper temperatures.
Collect dryer lint for your next camping trip. As silly as it may sound, it’s a great way to start a campfire. It lights easily and is completely free! All that’s needed for a toasty fire is a spark and a pile of lint.
Bring a filter or tablets so you can purify water. Even if you bring plenty of water you may run out or have an emergency that requires more water, fast. Try a couple of tablets out before you leave home to ensure you know what the water will taste like. This will help you circumvent dehydration due to the fact that you dislike the water’s taste.
When you spend time outside, you are going to have a much more fun time if you are prepared. Put the tips you’ve learned here to use the next time you are planning a camping trip and you will ensure that you have a fun, safe, and relaxing time.