If you have been wondering about what to expect for an upcoming camping trip, you have come to the right place. This article will share basic tips and advice that will make your camping trip go off without a hitch. Continue reading to learn just where you need to start.
Water is critical for your survival when hiking in the backcountry. Carry water purification tablets with you or some sort of water filter that is capable of filtering out bacteria. There are many different kinds available at your local sporting goods store. Whenever you are looking for a water source, make sure the water is flowing; stagnant water can kill you if not treated properly.
Select the right sleeping bag for the season. If you use a heavy winter sleeping bag in summer, this can be stifling and uncomfortable. Alternatively, taking a light bag in the winter can lead to great discomfort. You may even develop hypothermia.
Know what is available in the area around your campsite. You may get lucky and have beautiful weather the entire time. However, you may also face inclement weather, too. Have a backup plan in case you need a diversion. This is particularly crucial if you have kids, but adults need a little entertainment as well!
Before going camping, take a course in first aid, especially if you plan to bring children with you. If something bad happens, you’ll be able to take care of it because you’ll know exactly what to do while waiting for a health professional to show up. Be sure to research the area you are visiting. Be aware of poisonous flora and fauna, as well as of what sounds animals make.
Camping often sounds like a great deal of fun, and it is; however it does require some special preparation. Before going camping for the first time, make sure you have done some research on tents, food and wildlife survival. It can make the difference between a great trip and a dangerous one.
Make sure to finish setting up camp during daylight hours. If you are in a vehicle, this means find a secure spot to park the vehicle. When you find a camping area, make sure that your tent is pitched on a flat area that isn’t near any unsafe ledges. Knowing the area around your campsite before it gets dark adds to your camping safety. Since you will know what you are doing, you’ll prevent frustration.
If you have a young child with you, do the math in advance with respect to how much baby food or formula they will need. Make sure you have supplies for them that will last the entire length of your trip. There are no guarantees that a store near your campsite will have these items or will have the type of items that you want.
When you’re going to take some kids with you on your camping trip, educate them on the dangers that camping can bring with it. Ensure you children know what poison ivy and poison oak looks like, what to do if they get lost or stumble upon wildlife.
Be sure to choose the right site for your camping experience. The camping site can make or break your trip. Try to choose a site that is not too far away from help should you need it. Choose a site that is flat and somewhat apart from trees. You want a location that is far from critters and close to aid.
Avoid severe weather when going camping, and pay attention to forecasts. It is horrible trying to pitch a tent in the rain, and not much fun sitting in a tent during a rainstorm. It is equally as disturbing approaching a muddy campsite and trying to make a weekend out of it.
Generally when you camp, you want to live with as little as possible but still be prepared for anything. While a sleeping bag is obvious, it is still a good idea to bring extra blankets. That way, you will be prepared for an unexpected chill, or you can have a softer place to sleep.
Do not take anything that belongs in nature with you when you leave. Have fun and take pictures, but when you are loading up the car, make sure rocks, pinecones and other objects remain where they are. This is one of the unspoken rules of camping. Everyone should have the same opportunity to enjoy these things.
Be sure that you have a good amount of lighting devices with you, as well as means of keeping them running. This will ensure everyone remains safe. Without a flashlight, you could easily stumble and fall or be surprised by local wildlife. If you’re taking kids along with you, give each one of them a flashlight.
Zip-lock bags can be very handy in a camper’s tool chest. Don’t worry about hauling mixing bowls in your gear. A gallon size zip-lock bag is great for mixing foods together and is much easier to carry in your pack. Just secure the top of the bag very carefully, then squeeze, knead or shake the ingredients together. Then discard for super-easy cleanup too!
One tip that is very useful to anyone who is planning to go camping is to practice finding as well as purifying water prior to your camping trip. You don’t want to start this process when you are already thirsty as it could lead to a very dangerous situation.
Recreational camping is not just for warm weather. If you are feeling especially adventurous, you can go camping in early spring and late fall at most camping grounds. You can even camp in the snow if you have the right gear. Make sure your sleeping bags are suitable for whatever weather you are camping in.
Camping is a pretty simple outdoor excursion for just about anyone to handle. But this article shared some information that should help you field any mishaps that come your way before they ever have a chance to become a problem for you. Keep this information in mind on your fun camping trip!
