Camping is an experience that appeals to many individuals, and the high number of outdoor reality shows is adding to the appeal. If you want to spend some time outside for fun and relaxation, keep reading for how to do it right.
Chances are, your family and your belongings are going to end up getting dirty. When you know that going in, you won’t stress out when it happens. Enjoy hanging out in the wilderness and don’t worry too much about getting messy. You can get clean when you get home.
Pack additional clothes when going camping. Camping can be messy. Kids love to play in the dirt and will bring it back to your tent. Children will get dirtier as the day goes on. The solution is not to stop them from getting dirty, but to have clean clothes ready for them after they are done. It’s best to be prepared.
Ensure that your tent is large enough for all of the potential occupants. This will ensure comfort while inside the tent.
Preparation could mean the difference between a good camping experience and a dreaded one. Always fully prepare before you head out on a camping trip. If you’re visiting a new location, be sure to research its wildlife, climate, and geography.
Make sure you know what’s covered in your medical insurance. Sometimes going into a different state means that you will need to have an additional policy. This is a bigger factor if you’re traveling to another country for a camping trip, such as Canada. Be sure you’re prepared to be on the safe side!
Even the most natural experience can allow for one nice luxury from home. Bring an interesting book, some luxurious candy or even a nice fluffy pillow. Don’t bring any items that are heavy, though. It is these simple luxuries that can lift your mood.
Make sure to finish setting up camp during daylight hours. If you are traveling in an RV, park it in a well secured area. Locate a flat area of dry ground if you plan to pitch a tent. Choosing a site before night falls gives you an opportunity to get used to your surroundings. You will be able to see due to the sunlight and you will have an easier time.
Make sure that you bring items along with you that will make your camping trip more fun. Fishing poles, decks of cards and games will be fun campsite entertainment. This is especially important if you are bringing children, as they tend to bore easily.
Duct Tape
Don’t forget the duct tape. Duct tape has numerous uses at a campsite. Tape can be used to seal holes in your sleeping mattress. It can also be used on your tarp or tent. If someone’s shoe falls apart while out and about, it can hold shoes together quite nicely. Applied to the foot itself can prevent blisters. If anyone hurts themselves, it can be used for securing splints or for covering wounds, provided something soft is placed between the tape and skin.
It is extremely important to be properly equipped when you go camping. If you forget a key item, it can destroy the vacation. Write a list of all the items you need and make sure to cross them off of the list once you pack them. Your list should include a sleeping bag, tent, tarp, water, food, knife, soap, fire-starting items and more.
Pack extra flashlights and batteries when you are packing for your trip. There are times when it is important to be able to see clearly in the dark. Sufficient light can help you avoid falling or bumping into to animals. If you have children with you on your camping trip, a smart thing to do is to give each of them a flashlight.
Make sure your sleeping bag is appropriate for the location. Lighter weight bags are great for warm weather; however, if the climate is cooler, a heavier bag will be in order. If you are spending the night in a tent in cold weather, a bag that hugs your body and traps your body heat is essential.
Keep one eye on your children at all times. There is quite a bit of traffic at campsites, and young kids can wander around in the woods, often getting lost. It can take just one second for a child to get into danger, so supervise them at all times to be safe.
Make sure that you pack strategically and efficiently when you go on a camping trip. A checklist of all supplies can help you be sure that you have everything you need as you are packing. This is very helpful if you’ll be far from civilization.
It’s important to clean the campsite you used when it’s time to leave. Make sure you have garbage bags to clean up trash. Pack up any food that may remain and remove it from the campsite. The only thing you want left are your footprints when you are gone.
Many get food poisoning due to improperly stored food on a camping trip. Food poisoning can happen when food is spoiled, which is something you risk when you take food not properly preserved, vacuum sealed or canned. Bring lots of ice to prevent food from spoiling, and remove the drain plug on the cooler so your food stays dry.
Dress in layers when camping. Sometimes the weather changes unexpectedly. It may be chilly early in the morning, but then the afternoon can be incredibly hot and humid. It can get really chilly again when the sun starts going down. You’ll need to be sure your clothes are layered so it’s easy to adjust what you’re wearing throughout your day.
It should be clear to you now that you have plenty of different issues to consider when you prepare for a camping trip. However, you are now likely well prepared to deal with the simple situations that pop up. Since you know more, you can sit back and focus on relaxing while you are camping.