Camping is one of the most enjoyable things to do with family and friends. It is a great experience that everyone should indulge in. Camping isn't a fool's sport and it requires a bit of knowledge regarding your surrounding environment. Read the following article and learn some great tips to consider while camping.
When you're camping, always look for shelter prior to dark. Once the woods are dark, it is very difficult to find firewood, pitch your tent and prepare some food. This is even more true if you're accustomed to city life, and your eyes haven't adjusted to the darkness of the woods. Avoid this hazard completely, by finding adequate shelter long before the sun goes down.
When you buy a new tent, set it up completely at home before you take it camping. This will not only familiarize you with the process, it will allow you to ensure there are no missing pieces or defects. It also helps with the frustration of putting a tent up.
When it comes to children, don't hesitate to over-pack. Camping can get very messy and dirty when you bring your children. Dirt and dust are like magnets for children. As they go about enjoying the natural surroundings, you may find that dirt is added to dirt. While this cannot usually be prevented, be sure to pack some extra clothing. Stay ahead of the game!
If you are not prepared for your camping trip, your fun excursion can turn dangerous fast. Be sure you're always prepared before you go camping. If you go someplace new, research wildlife and research the weather and geography.
Review your health insurance policy. Some policies don't cover you while out of state and you may have to add an extra policy. This is especially important if your camping destination is in Canada or another country. Be ready for any eventuality.
If you're camping with kids, try a "jungle breakfast". Bring small cereal boxes, juice drinks and fruit, and keep them tied up high in the trees. When they wake up, they'll have to search the "jungle" for breakfast. This is a wonderful way to add fun to their camping enjoyment.
If you are camping in the summer, go swimming too. Many people miss a nice warm shower while camping. Cool water will make you feel clean and fresh, so you may not miss your shower at all.
A hankerchief is a great item to bring on your trip. That small piece of cloth could become a potholder, a bag, a blotter or a towel. They are quite versatile, so be sure to bring one every time you go on a trip.
If you are interested in camping alone or with friends, make sure you have prepared an emergency kit. The content of this kit should be personalized to the type of camping you will be doing. Take into consideration all the possibilities that nature has to offer, and take precautions for them.
Duct tape is the cure-all for many mishaps in camping. This can help to seal and protect your tent and even protect your body.
Bring adequate amounts of food. Make sure the food you bring won't spoil while you're camping. You don't want to get food poisoning, so you want food that doesn't spoil easily. Prepare your food properly and research any precautions you need to take.
Flashlight Batteries
Think carefully on your next trip to prevent the drainage of your flashlight batteries. You may accidentally turn on a flashlight while you're looking through what you have packed for your trip. To prevent this, put flashlight batteries in backwards. This prevents the flashlight from coming on and will ensure it is ready for use when needed.
A wonderful tip for camping is to take extra utility knives. One of the most useful camp items is a utility knife, so pack an extra one just in case one gets lost.
Always bring a survival kit and a full first aid kit with you. These two kits are essential for your safety and well being. Being prepared can prevent a serious situation from worsening and can buy you time when helping a sick or injured person to safety.
Duct Tape
Duct tape is an important piece of camping equipment. Tents can be quite durable, but they aren't invincible. A piece of duct tape is sure to fix any damage on your tent and can ensure a safe, dry night in the woods.
When your camping trip is over, make sure to leave a clean campsite behind. Bring enough garbage bags for all the trash. Also, it's important to take all food with you when you leave too. When you leave your campsite, the only thing you should leave are your footprints.
Don't forget the toilet paper. If your campgrounds or location doesn't have a properly installed restroom, you will need to go outdoors in the woods. It is not advisable to use leaves, as some plants are poisonous; stay on the safe side and take some toilet paper.
Keep food safe when you're out in the wild camping. Keep food in waterproof containers of airtight bags. Any perishable food should be stored in insulated coolers. Prevent cross-contamination of raw and cooked foods by storing them separately. Wash your hands while preparing food and afterward, and keep any surfaces, utensils and cooking containers clean as well. Cook all of your food to the right temperature and get them chilled quickly.
Plan plenty of activities to keep yourself busy while camping. There is so much more to camping than just roasting marshmallows. Exercise your creative muscles and think of things everyone in your group will enjoy. Think of both your younger and older kids when choosing activities.
Proper camping is all about preparation and the right knowledge. Be certain to utilize the information above prior to your next outdoor excursion. By keeping the tips featured above in mind, your camping trip is sure to be a huge success.