Ahh, camping! Camping lets you get out in nature and enjoy it with your friends or family members. It can be thrilling, awe inspiring and even relaxing if you do it right. Look at the following advice to learn how to have fun camping.
Do not assume you can collect firewood from the area. Make sure you bring some of your own dry kindling and make sure it stays in a dry area.
Chances are, your family and your belongings are going to end up getting dirty. While baby wipes can be used to help for some level of cleanliness, expect that people will get dirty. Be ready for it and accept it. Allow yourself to be improper, messy and just “let go” while outside. You can always clean up, and be “normal” when you return home.
When going camping you need to ensure that the tent you build can easily hold you and anybody else that comes along. This will make it easy for you all to have a comfortable time sleeping, and moving around in the middle of the night when nature calls for people.
If you’re going to be taking your children camping, attend a first-aid course. In the unfortunate case of an accident, you will be prepared to handle the situation. Be sure to research the area you are visiting. Know the types of wild animals that inhabit the woods and gain understanding of any poisonous snakes or plants nearby.
A bandanna or handkerchief should be brought along with you. In emergencies, such cloth can turn into a towel, a potholder or a piece of luggage. It does not take much space in your bag and can save the day in many different situations.
Pack things like oranges when you go camping. They are nutritious, and they also keep mosquitoes away. After you’ve eaten the flesh of the fruit, save all the peels. When you need bug repellant, rub the peels on your skin to repel mosquitos naturally and on the cheap!
If the area in which you’ll be camping is well known for wildlife that poses a danger, special precautions must be taken regarding your food. Take safety precautions, such as wrapping your items in many layers for protection. Taking these precautions can significantly lower you chances of being attacked.
Camping Trip
If this your first time going on a camping trip? Before you head off on that initial camping trip, practice pitching your tent. Doing this will make you properly prepared when you get to camp. Doing this will help you pitch your tent quickly, just in case you get to your campsite when it starts to get dark.
Take some preventative steps in order to avoid inadvertently draining the batteries in your flashlights during your next camping adventure. It is not uncommon to accidentally bump the switch and turn your flashlight on when you are digging around in your bag. To prevent draining the batteries, place them in your flashlight backwards. That way you make sure you don’t accidentally turn them on.
Sleeping Bag
Take along a sleeping bag that matches the climate where you’re going. Lighter weight bags are great for warm weather; however, if the climate is cooler, a heavier bag will be in order. Make sure your sleeping bag fits you well, hugs your body and helps you to retain heat.
Be very aware of the place where you have decided to set up. Beware of wasp nests, or breeding territory of other animals. If the campsite has a lot of vegetation, protect exposed skin by wearing long pants and sleeves. It may be wise to take along bug spray too.
You should leave your car or basecamp with a cell phone that’s fully charged. You might want to bring an extra battery as well just in case your original runs low. A cellphone is a great way to get in touch with someone in case of an emergency so be sure yours isn’t going to die.
When camping, pack carefully and wisely. Create a list of necessary supplies and check each one off as they are packed. This is something you should strive to do if you are camping in a secluded spot, away from first-aid or emergency amenities.
Plan Activities
Plan what you will do from the time you arrive until you leave to make your trip fun. Marshmallows and campfires aren’t the only things you can do when you’re camping. Get creative with your trip and plan activities that appeal to all members of your family. You should plan activities that both the older campers and younger campers alike will enjoy.
Even though camping is a fun and popular getaway, things can turn sour without the right planning. With any luck, this article should have given you some useful tips to have a great time and enjoy the next camping trip.