Camping in the great outdoors can be one of the most relaxing and enjoyable ways to get away from the stress of every day life. To make sure that your trip is as relaxing as possible, there are some basic tips that get help you get the most of your time away. The article below has lots of great ideas.
Prior to leaving, take a few minutes to make a checklist of everything that you need. There is nothing worse than getting to a campsite and then finding out that you don’t have what you need to be comfortable. A checklist is a great aid as you are packing. Try to start getting thing’s together several days before you leave so you have plenty of time.
Do plenty of research on your camping site and ensure that it offers everything that your group will need. Consider the individual needs of each camper to ensure that everyone is taken care of. This alleviates the need to make supply runs, or worst case, have to end the trip too soon.
While a campfire gives off enough light in the general area around it, you want to be sure you take along a flashlight on your camping trip if you plan to venture outside of the campfire’s glow. This is a definite safety precaution you don’t want to ignore. It can be quite dark out there in the woods at nighttime.
If you are traveling with children, consider staying at a campground that is specifically designated for families. Campers in these areas know what to expect and will not have an issue if you have a cranky toddler or your children want to run around, scream and play. You will probably be more relaxed as a result and have a better time.
Introduce yourselves to other families camping in your immediate area, as a means of being social and more apt to help each other out. If another crew arrives after you’ve set up, offer to help with their tent or equipment. If something goes awry during the trip for anyone, it’s much easier to ask for help from somebody who was courteous enough to introduce themselves.
You can make tasty meals even when you are camping. You do not necessarily need to eat just franks and beans or hamburgers. Pack a box with herbs and spices, olive oil, brown sugar or whatever else you like. You can fix meals that have flavor even when you are “roughing” it.
Set up a “jungle breakfast” when you are camping with your kids. Take little juice boxes, mini cereal boxes, and fruit into the woods and be sure to tie them to a nearby tree. Your children can then hunt these foods when they wake up. It adds some fun to camping.
If you’re new to camping, you’re going to want to arrive early to the campground. The reason for this is you will be new to the campground site and rules, and this will slow you down. You don’t want to be stuck setting up camp after dark, so just arrive a little earlier than you usually would.
It is important to have a flashlight when you camp, but make sure the batteries are fully charged. One way to be sure the batteries don’t accidentally drain on the journey is to put them into the flashlight backwards. That way if the switch is accidentally engaged, they stay charged. Plus, you know where the batteries are.
Are you a novice at camping, having just bought your tent? Before going on the trip, set up the tent at home. This will ensure that you understand how the tent is to be set up and taken down. This will also speed up your ability to pitch a tent and keep you safe if nighttime is approaching when you’re ready to camp.
If you are camping outdoors instead of in a travel trailer or RV, it is important to dress in (or carry with you) layers of clothing. While on a camping trip, temperatures can fluctuate widely. The easiest and most effective method to control your body temperature is through adding and removing layers of clothing. Having layers of clothing also protects you from bug bites.
Be sure to check your first-aid kit before you leave for your trip. You need to be sure it has all the basic necessities. Make sure it includes items like bandages, tweezers, disinfectant, ointment, etc. You never know when something may injure you or another person on your trip, so it’s best to be prepared.
Take some time to find the right sleeping bag for the climate conditions at your campsite. Heavy weight sleeping bags are best for cold weather, while lightweight bags works best for hot weather. Cold weather and winter camping means that you need a sleeping bag that contours your physique so that you can keep body heat during your sleep.
Do not leave your sleeping bag rolled up until right before it is time for you to get some sleep. Lay it out right away so that it can loft up and give you the highest level of insulation. Do the same for any sleeping pads you have brought along.
Bringing along a cell phone with a full charge isn’t a bad idea while camping. The best thing to do is bring some backup batteries. Your phone could be the most important equipment you have in an emergency.
Be prepared if you get lost on a camping trip. You should know how to use a map, compass, and GPS device before leaving for your trip. You should also keep these on your person during your trip. If you stray too far from your campsite, these items can help you get back quickly and safely.
As you can see there are many great ways to make your time in the great outdoors the best camping trip ever. Using the tips in the article above will make sure that your experience is one to remember for years to come. You will return to your daily routine refreshed and ready to go.
