There is nothing more exciting than a well planned camping trip. You might discover something new about yourself, get a little closer to nature or just feel free from the everyday stress you have to deal with. You can build a campfire, as well as go hiking. There are various things to think about and do before you leave to go camping, but these tips can help.
Although it is not an essential part of your back country camping gear, a machete is something that you may consider packing depending on where you are going. It is a very versatile tool in the wilderness. You can cut a trail, hack bamboo and vines for shelter, cut coconuts for water, chop firewood, and even use it as protection against wild animals.
Always find your shelter before it gets dark when you go camping. You do not want to be stuck trying to put your tent together or finding a safe location for the tent when it’s pitch black outside. Some people cannot see very well at night, and this makes setting up camp at night next to impossible. Try to avoid setting up after the sun sets.
When packing for your camping trip, make sure to pack either a pair of flip flops or water shoes. These will come in handy in and around the campground. For instance, if you are staying in a campground that has bathroom facilities and you plan on taking a shower, you need to wear shoes in the shower to protect your feet from foot fungus.
Those big, colorful plastic storage bins make excellent places to store and organize all of your camping gear. While at home, keep it in a closet or the garage and right before you leave for your camping trip, pop it in the trunk. It should keep everything air-tight, dry and easily accessible.
Take along a survival kit and carry it at all times. You should have a bandanna (to use as a sling or tourniquet), wound coverings, something to use for sprains, matches, a knife, tablets to purify water and a compass in your kit. Your survival kit can be the difference between you making it out of the woods on a stretcher or your own two feet. Never let it leave your side.
Make sure you have a first aid kit with you. As an alternative, you could pack some supplies in a plastic bag. While hopefully your trip will be free of injuries, you never know. It is best to be prepared so that you can handle anything that happens in the best way possible.
Pack a bandana. Not only can it keep the hair out of your eyes, it can also be a sack to carry things, a towel to dry your hands or a potholder to grab your coffee pot from the fire. As you can see, a handkerchief can serve many different purposes on a camping trip.
When camping alone or in the company of friends, always bring an emergency kit. This kit will change depending on when and where you are camping but should always include the basics. Items that will help with possible snake bites or a sling in case of sprains or breaks is a good idea, too.
To make your camping trip more enjoyable, bring along something luxurious. Your favorite candy bar or some prepackaged creamers for your morning coffee are light and simple to bring along. Small luxuries can make things more enjoyable!
Just because your tent is labeled waterproof, do not count on it to keep you dry when it rains. Pack a couple extra-large tarps to take along with you. Use one to set on the ground under your tent and keep one dry to use to cover your tent if it looks like it is going to rain hard.
Take something to entertain yourself when you have some downtime. Bring some board games for the whole family, or bring a book in case you wake up before everyone else. This is a good idea so that you know you are entertained throughout your entire trip and there isn’t a dull moment.
Charge all of your electronic equipment such as your cell phones and gaming equipment for the children to the max before you go to a camping trip. You want to get the most out of their charge when you do decide to use them, so make sure they are charged.
When camping out, you’re going to have bugs. Some of them are fine, and some of them; you don’t want them around you. To limit the amount of bugs you must deal with, keep your campsite clean. Bees and ants are attracted to sugary soda cans and messes, so dispose of your trash immediately.
Take along a battery operated radio when camping. A radio will keep you up-to-date on any late-breaking news and weather reports. A radio will also give you entertainment during those quiet evenings sitting around the campfire. Or if you prefer, pack a guitar for you and your campers’ enjoyment.
Be very aware of the place where you have decided to set up. You have to figure out a spot that doesn’t have too many insects or problems with any animals. Granted, even if you are cautious, you should still protect yourself from insects using long garments to keep them off of your skin. A strong bug spray is also something you want on hand, especially if the vegetation is very thick.
You should always bring a spare utility knife when camping. Utility knives can be quite versatile, so be sure to have an extra with you.
Bring along plenty of zip-lock bags on your camping trip, for a great mixing tool with foods as well as great storage. Always make sure the bag is completely sealed, then pop in any foods you need to combine, like chicken and batter or steak with marinade! Zip-lock bags are the best at keeping anything you need water-proofed too.
Getting all you can out of an experience with camping should be more simple now that you’re better prepared. Be sure to remember these tips for the next camping trip. They ensure that you have the supplies you need and can spend your time enjoying nature.
