The draw that nature has for many folks is undeniable. You can assure a great trip if you use the tips shared here. If you are willing to put the time and effort into it before you leave on your trip, you will surely benefit a great deal from it later on.
Anytime you buy a tent, be sure to practice setting it up and taking it down in your backyard prior to actually camping. This will allow you to get the experience needed for erecting your tent. It also helps with the frustration of putting a tent up.
Survival Kit
Pack and carry a survival kit on your person for the entire trip. A first aid kit, matches in a water tight container, a good knife, flares and tablet to purify water are some essentials to include. This survival kit may be what keeps you alive if you get lost and the items in it are indispensable in a survival situation. Be sure to bring it with you whenever you leave your campsite.
Check the weather before leaving for your camping trip. There are dozens of websites that can tell you about local climates. If you have the correct weather information, you will be better prepared with proper equipment and clothing.
Review your health insurance policy. If you go camping out of state, you may need to have coverage where you go. If you are going to a foreign country, this is especially critical. Be sure to be properly prepared!
Though camping is meant to emphasize minimalism, some carefully chosen supplies can make all the difference. While it's important to have a sleeping bag, it's also recommended to have extra blankets. This will keep you warm if it gets really cool at night and/or you can use them for additional padding.
It is imperative that you are properly packed for your camping trip. Unfortunately, forgetting one or two key items can ruin your trip. Take the time to create a list that can be checked off while you pack. You should bring along a knife, food, water, shelter and a sleeping bag.
As you set up your campsite, choose an area that is as smooth and as level as possible for the location of your tent. It is important to feel as level as possible to maximize the comfort that you feel. A tarp should be laid on the ground before the tent is set up to keep moisture out.
Plan to save the light of your flashlight before you go camping. You don't want to waste your flashlight battery and not be able to see. An easy way to prevent this is to switch your batteries around when the flashlight isn't being used. That way you make sure you don't accidentally turn them on.
Watch your kids closely. Cars abound at campgrounds, and it is easy for a little one to walk into the woods and have trouble getting out. Disaster can strike quickly if you aren't watching closely.
When you are out in the wilderness with kids, have a photo of them with you. If you lose a child at any point, having a picture to show rescuers or search parties could be very useful. Always have one on you for emergencies.
It is recommended you bring lots of beef jerky and/or trail mix when you go camping. These snacks are nutritious enough to eat in the event you don't feel like cooking. Even if you don't eat them, these are non-perishable snacks that have a long shelf life.
Camping can be a life-changing adventure when properly understood. Camping, however, does take a good deal of planning and knowledge to ensure that you have a good time. You'll be ready for your first camping trip soon if you follow the tips you read above.