Taking the time to really research camping can ensure you have a successful trip outdoors! There is a bit more to this form of recreation than taking a tent and starting a fire. This article will give you a good deal of information that you can take with you on your next trip.
One of the most important parts of your camping gear is your tent. The tent you buy should suit your needs and the size of your camping party. If you have young children, you probably want to purchase a large tent so they can sleep in the same tent with you. If your children are old, buy them their own tent so they don’t have to bunk with the adults.
Find your shelter before it gets dark. Once it gets dark outside, figuring out how to set up a tent, finding wood and making food may become impossible. That is particularly true if you aren’t used to the blackness of the wilderness. Set up camp before dark to keep yourself from getting into this situation.
Before you head out on your long-awaited camping trip, make sure the area where you plan to camp doesn’t require a camping permit. If you happen to camp in a place that does require one and you didn’t get one, then you could be facing quite a hefty ticket or fine from a local forest ranger.
If you are planning any kind of backcountry camping, a must carry item is a fire starter kit. If you are in a survival situation, fire is a way to cook, keep you warm, purify water, and signal for help. Many camping stores sell fire starters that can be used when wet and do not require any fuel. Also, try making fire when you are not in a survival situation so you know you can do it if the need arises.
Allow everyone in the camping party a say in the location. Think about where it is you want to go. Try to keep a small list, as there is such an abundance of spots to choose from, it can be hard to pick one. Narrow down your top choices and let your entire family decide.
Choose a tent large enough for everyone that is going to sleep in it. This will ensure you are able to comfortably move around without disturbing people you are sharing your tent with.
If you are going camping with your pets or children, you need to take a few extra precautions. Try to teach your kids the basics of camping safety. They need to know what to do if they get lost and should each have a small survival kit. Make sure you have leashes for any pets and make sure they are current with all vaccinations.
Camping has the potential to be thrilling or hazardous, depending on your level of preparation. Be sure you don’t go camping until you are fully prepared with all the supplies you need. Research the area to learn about the wildlife and the geography and climate.
If you’re camping with your family, try finding campsites that are pet-friendly. This is a great way for you to get your animals out in the fresh air. Your kids will be happy to have your animals there with you, so it can be a great experience for all of you.
Giving yourself enough time to enjoy your camping trip is key. Plan out your trip far in advance and get a couple of days off from work if possible. You want to enjoy yourself camping for at least a few days, that way you feel like you got the full experience out of it.
An indispensable item to pack for your camping trip is Ziploc bags. You can separate items in your gear like sunscreen and bug spray so if they puncture they do not get all over your gear. You can also use them to keep items like matches and cellphones dry if it rains.
Bugs and mosquitoes are a common camping annoyance. You could buy a commercial repellent with chemicals, but a good natural way to keep bugs away from your body is by using an orange peel. Rub the inside of the peel on your arms and legs. This is a inexpensive, responsible way to repel annoying pests.
When out in the wilds camping, it is smart to be prepared for just about anything. No matter how careful you are, things can happen that are not a part of your original plan. Also, be aware that the weather can be very unpredictable. You mustn’t take any reckless risks, be careless, and you need to think before acting.
When camping, many people wake up in the morning, only to find out they they have left items out that are now wet. This is because of the morning dew, which can hardly be avoided. If the weather conditions are right, dew is inevitable, so make sure you put things away.
Always make sure that your cell phone is with you when you get to your campsite, and it should be fully charged. Even better, try bring along some spare batteries in case your phone’s battery runs out. Your cell phone can help should an emergency arise.
Always take a map with you, and make sure you know how to read the map and a compass before you go. It is still possible to get lost at the camp grounds even though you have already been there, because campsites look similar. You can prevent disaster by knowing how to use these lifesaving items.
Make sure you secure all sources of food at night when you go to sleep. There are many animals that can frequent campgrounds at night and scavenge your food, especially when left open and unattended for hours. You don’t want to wake up to your food scattered everywhere, and you left with a shortage.
As you can see, there are plenty of things you need to remember for your next camping trip. Many things will play a factor in your safety and the overall enjoyment of the experience. Use what you have read from this article, and you will have a better camping experience next time you go outdoors!
