Camping might be something you used to do when you were younger. It was fun then and still can be fun if you know what you’re doing and come prepared. Anyone of any age can have fun camping as long as they take some extra time to prepare properly for the trip with information. These tips can help you.

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.

Did you know that a simple mirror can save your life? If you are camping and end up in a survival situation, a simple hand held mirror can be used to signal for help many miles away. Do not buy the standard glass mirror, many camping supply stores sell mirrors made of Lexan that will float and are practically unbreakable.

Use separate coolers for perishables, ice and drinks. While it does not matter if the perishables and drinks go into the same one, make sure to pack your ice separately. This will keep the temperature down so that you will have ice for much longer than you would have otherwise.

Choose a tent large enough for everyone that will be expected to use it. With enough room, getting up during the night will not disturb others in the tent, and you can all be comfortable while sleeping.

If you are interested in camping, and you are new to the activity, then you should never start out alone. It can be quite dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing, so it is important to bring along an experienced friend to help you learn the ropes.

A first aid session, especially if you have children, is essential. This way, if someone were to have an accident, you’ll possess enough knowledge to deal with it enough until medical help arrives. You should also research the area you plan on camping in. Be aware of poisonous flora and fauna, as well as of what sounds animals make.

If you will be camping somewhere that is very far away from civilization, then make sure you have told several people where you will be as well as how long you are intending to stay. Ask them to call you on the day you are supposed to return to ensure your safety.

Always watch your kids closely. There are cars that pull in and out of campsites, and of course, young children can quickly and easily get lost in the woods. It takes just a second and something can happen; therefore be certain you always give kids the proper supervision.

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.

If you are going camping with a tent you have never used before, put it up in your backyard before you leave. When you get to your campsite, it might be dark and raining, and you might have to go on feel and memory pitching the thing. So, it helps to have done it at least once before.

Make a list of the things you need for your camping trip and check each item off once you pack it. Then, make sure you bring each bag to the car. The last thing any camper wants is to reach the sight and find out they forgot something important, like matches or the food.

Remember to choose a sleeping bag that is suitable for the season you are camping in. For example, summertime camping calls for a lightweight bag that helps you stay cool. Meanwhile, if you are camping during the winter months, you will probably desire a more heavyweight sleep bag that will protect the body’s extremities from frostbite.

A great tip for those of you planning a camping trip would be to bring along flashlights that are LED and run on lithium batteries. These types of flashlights last much longer than traditional flashlight and the last thing you want when out in the wilderness is a broken flashlight.

Always carry a first-aid kit with you while camping. It should include bandages, antibiotic ointment, wrap bandages for sprains and strains, and peroxide or alcohol for cleaning wounds. Scissors, tweezers and other small tools can be used to remove splinters or ticks. Antacids, over-the-counter pain medicines, and allergy medicines should also be included.

If you are camping with young children, make sure you plan activities for them and bring them toys to play with. You may be fine with a book on the picnic blanket, but children need more to keep them occupied. Don’t forget to keep travel games in mind, also.

Keep old shower curtains, you can use them as disposable tarps to put under your tent when you go camping! You could also put it down in the area in which you are going to wash your dishes or prepare your food. Instead of consigning your shower curtain to the dumpster, wash it and keep it around for your next camping trip.

Put all of your food and toiletries away at night. If you are camping where you are parked, store them in a locked vehicle. Otherwise, gather it all up in a bag and hand it several dozen feet off the ground and away from your tent. Animals might want to investigate the scents at night, and you do not want them bothering either the bag or your campsite.

All you need to enjoy camping as much as you did as when you were a kid is sheer will and a solid knowledge base. Use the information in this article to give you ideas and advice on going camping now. Make memories with your children and friends in the great outdoors.