So, you’re going camping and you are wondering where to start. Camping is a rather simple pleasure, but it’s vital that you make yourself aware of some basic things when it comes to camping. This article will help educate you on some of the things you need to know for your trip.
When packing for your camping adventure, make sure you pack only what you need for mealtimes. If you are at the campground, your food will have to stay cold so it does not spoil. If you are on the trail, any additional or excess food can be a burden. If you pack just enough food for the time you are on the trail, you will not be weighed down by excess weight.
A big concern with many people who go camping is the bugs. Do not get stuck in the middle of nowhere without having some sort of bug repellant. Check your surroundings before setting up camp for any wasp nests or ant hills that could cause you problems. Wear long pants and long-sleeved whenever possible and inspect yourself for ticks occasionally.
Make sure to pack plenty of extra clothing for your children. Camping can be dirty! Kids are always attracted to dirt. As a result, they are going to be seriously messy by the end of each day. Take extra clothing with you for your children. Prepare thoroughly!
Bring supplies for ‘Smores. ‘Smores are an integral part of any camping trip. Simply pack graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows. Toast the marshmallows, then make it the filling to a graham cracker/chocolate sandwich. When you have a ‘Smore, you will want ‘some more’–bring enough for everyone to have at least two of them!
Remember to pack a camera. There are some memories you’re going to want to capture on your camping trip. Bring along a small camera that can fit in your pocket. Try to pack something durable that could stand getting dropped or becoming a bit wet. Consider using a disposable camera.
Do not dump any type of food waste on the ground. This is a great way to attract unwanted bugs and animals. The best way to get rid of excess food waste is to dump all of it into the fire pit. It is also not a good idea to bury them.
Make sure you have cover in case of rain. When you’re out in the woods, a rainstorm can be wet, cold and uncomfortable. Make sure you have some kind of protection against the rain, whether it be a tent, cabin or lean-to. In a pinch, you can use a garbage bag as a poncho!
When you bring a canine along on a camping trip, don’t forget his leash and to keep a close eye on him always. There are those who fear dogs. You should keep that in mind while you are on your camping trip. Also, dogs can damage things around your campsite, or another person’s if they aren’t being watched.
Take along plenty of drinking water. You need to stay hydrated, and you will need the water to prepare your food. Depending on the nature of your camping trip, this water may also be needed for clean-up and washing of the hands. It is better to bring along more than you need than not enough.
Don’t forget the duct tape. Just like at home, its uses are nearly endless. It can repair an air mattress should it get a hole. It can also fix up a tarp, sleeping bag, or even the tent. You can even put some under your feet before long hikes so that you don’t get blisters. It can also work as a bandage.
When you are at your campsite, pitch your tent on the softest and most level ground you are able to find. Spots that are rocky, steep or wet mean an uncomfortable sleeping experience for you. Also remember to put down a tarp underneath your tent as an extra layer of protection from water.
Don’t forget to bring back-ups of things like batteries and flashlights. Many camping spots are remote, so there will not be a glow from city lights guiding you in the dark. Having that extra light source might help to prevent a fall or accident, or even getting lost in the woods. If you’re taking kids along with you, give each one of them a flashlight.
When you have a campfire, be certain that someone is monitoring it at all times. Summer’s weather and dry campsites can be potentially hazardous conditions for fires in unwanted areas. Take turns watching the flames, and be sure to keep a bucket of water and dirt handy to put out any fires.
Learn how to pitch your tent ahead of time. First-time tent pitching can take time, and you may get frustrated if your first time is at the actual campsite. If you practice doing this ahead of time, it will be a breeze to do once you get to your destination.
It is a great idea to put your tent together at home before you go out camping. Some tents can seem very complicated, and you do not want to get stuck in the dark without your tent being assembled. If you practice when you are at home, you will already have the experience of setting it up, and it will go smoothly.
For easier food preparation on a camping trip, prepare ingredients at home, and pack them in plastic zipper bags. You might want to chop, and other ingredients can be cooked quickly and easily when the prep work is done ahead of time. Throw a few bags of vegetables and meat into a pot over a fire, and you have soup or stew!
Many people will tell you that they have fond memories of camping. The information provided here should help make it so that you have a memorable trip as well, as long as you keep the information in mind. You should know be ready to field any curve balls that come your way!
