Many people think camping only involves sitting around bored while rationing food and getting bitten by bugs. However, it’s not necessary to have this type of experience. By taking the time to properly plan, you can avoid nasty bugs, eat well and have a wonderful time. Learn more about planning an enjoyable trip by reading on.
Allow everyone in the camping party a say in the location. Talk about which state to go to. With the many parks and preserves in the world, deciding where to go can be a task into itself. It may be easier to choose a few front runners and have family members vote.
Pack additional clothes when going camping. Being out in the wild can result in all sorts of messes. Kids love to play in the dirt and will bring it back to your tent. Therefore, you will need to understand that a clean trip is probably out of the question. By packing a few extra changes of clothes, your children can be presentable at dinner. The key is being prepared.
When choosing a tent, pick one that has plenty of room for you and all of your camping companions. This will give you the room necessary for a comfortable camping trip.
Bring oranges with you since they are great for snacking and repelling insects. After you have eaten the orange, rub the peel onto exposed body parts and this will repel any blood-sucking bugs.
Duct Tape
Duct tape is a valuable item to carry for many different situations. From mending tent holes to fixing shoes, duct tape can be used for a lot of repair work in a pinch.
Make sure that you are aware of the perils around the camping site that you choose. This would include stuff like what spiders dwell there, how steep the terrain is, and if the area is prone to flooding. Each area can pose different dangers, so familiarize yourself whenever you venture somewhere new.
Always pack enough food and the right kind. It is very important to make sure the food you bring will not spoil during your trip. No one wants to end their trip early because of food poisoning from spoiled food. Take the proper steps to prepare your food and do research if necessary.
Take some things to entertain yourself while in the wild. Card games, fishing poles, scavenger hunt lists and other supplies can make hanging out in the woods more fun. This is especially important if you are bringing children, as they tend to bore easily.
One smart thing to bring along camping is duct tape. It is as convenient for repairs while you are camping as it is at home. Duct tape can be used to repair anything. It be used to seal tears in tarps, tents, and even sleeping bags. You can also protect your feet against blisters while hiking long distances by putting duct tape on them. In a pinch, you can also bandage an injury with it.
Stand ready for all possibilities when you camp. 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. You need to pay attention to what you’re doing, avoid unnecessarily risky behavior, and think before you act whether you are in a crisis or a normal camping situation.
Sleeping Bag
Take some time to find the right sleeping bag for the climate conditions at your campsite. If the weather is warm, you want a lightweight bag. If frigid temperatures will be present, choose a sub-zero rated bag. 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.
Bring along a photo of any children that will be camping with you. This can come in handy if they are separated from you while on your trip. You should bring another photo to keep in case of emergencies.
Smart campers will leave their car or base camp with a charged mobile phone. Even better, bring extra batteries so you are prepared if there is an emergency. A cellphone is a great way to get in touch with someone in case of an emergency so be sure yours isn’t going to die.
An easy, yet often forgotten tip is to find shelter before it gets dark. It is extremely difficult to pitch a tent whenever it is dark. It is possible to do by firelight or by flashlight, but it will more than likely be frustrating and can be downright impossible in areas where there are hazards nearby. It is so much easier to set up your shelter before dark.
Remember to pack foods that don’t spoil to avoid food poisoning. If you don’t preserve, pack and prepare your food right, you’re at risk. Pack numerous ice packs to keep perishable foods chilled and do not forget to pull your cooler’s drain plug so that food products do not get soaked.
As you now realize, camping can be one of most exciting experiences for you and your family. Use the tips here as a guide to assist you in planning your next outdoor adventure. They are great for helping you steer clear of camping pitfalls so that you can enjoy nothing but the benefits.