Top Camping Advice Straight From The Experts

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJVZKUHLVjQ&w=420&h=315]

Camping out means that you don’t have the modern conveniences of home. This means that you should plan your trip carefully and thoroughly. The following article can help you make sure you get the most out of your camping trip.

Let all of your family members have a chance to contribute to picking a campsite. Talk about the state you would like to go to. There are millions of options just in the United States, and it can sometimes be difficult to choose the perfect one! If it is easier, select a few of your personal favorites and then let the entire family vote.

Always pack enough for your kids. Camping is messy. Kids simply love to get dirty. This means that as the day goes on, the dirtier your kids will get. While this cannot usually be prevented, be sure to pack some extra clothing. Be prepared for dirty clothes and dirty children by packing extra clothes.

Bring a hankerchief or a bandanna with you. These can be used in a pinch if you need a potholder, towel or even something to carry an item in. As you can see, a handkerchief can serve many different purposes on a camping trip.

Camping Pillows

Buy yourself some camping pillows for your trip. Your standard pillow that you have at home will not be comfortable if the conditions become humid. Those big pillows can also mildew, because they absorbs moisture. Camping pillows are coated to prevent this from happening, keeping you dry and comfortable.

Bring activities for you to have fun with while camping. Entertain yourself by taking cards and fishing poles. If the kids are camping with you, you’ll need to increase the amount of entertainment items that you pack.

Camping’s main idea is to generally live off of the land, however, you still need to be well-prepared. Blankets are essential, in addition to a sleeping bag, to maximize comfort. Blankets make good padding and can help you stay warm if it’s colder than you expect at night.

When you reach your campsite, pitch your tent on the softest, most level ground you can locate. Choosing a sloped or rocky area to camp at can make you uncomfortable when in your tent. Also, use a tarp under your tent to keep water out and prevent damage.

Know where your kids are at all times. Cars abound at campgrounds, and it is easy for a little one to walk into the woods and have trouble getting out. It can happen in an instant, so make sure they are always supervised.

Pick out all of your clothing before you go camping. You will need an adequate supply of clean clothes to last the entirety of your trip. Pack clothes that will allow you to dress properly for whatever weather is expected in the area where you will be camping. Make sure to pack a good pair of shoes to hike in as well.

If you’re planning on camping, you need to remember to pack energy food like beef jerky and trail mix. These grab-and-go snacks are great for taking on a hike or as a snack after a long day when you don’t feel like preparing a meal. As an added benefit these snacks have a long shelf life, so if you do not eat them while camping you can enjoy them for months to come.

You should never leave your car or basecamp without a fully-charged cell phone. Or, bring an extra battery just in case your battery dies. This is an important thing to have and you need to make sure you can use it if you need.

It is important that you have first aid and survival kits on hand when you go camping. These kits can assure you have everything you need in any unexpected situation. This precaution can prevent loss of life and give you the time you need to get needed medical assistance in case of injury.

Learn how to use a compass or read a map, beforehand. Even if you know the area well, getting lost is always a possibility. You will be able to avoid possible tragedy when you learn how to use both of these life saving items.

Make sure to seal the seams in your tent when you are setting it up. You can purchase sealant at shops that sell sporting goods, but some tents come with a tube. This helps to prevent bugs, as well as rainwater, from coming in your tent.

As crazy as it might sound, do not forget to pack some toilet paper. Many camping trips involve trees as toilets. It is not advisable to use leaves, as some plants are poisonous; stay on the safe side and take some toilet paper.

When choosing a sleeping bag, make sure that you pick one that is meant for the season and climate in which you plan to camp. During summer, lighter bags are the rule, allowing you to maintain your cool. In the winter, however, you need something a bit thicker to stay warm.

When you go camping, you do not have access to many modern comforts. This will be hard for some and appealing for others. To get the most from camping, plan ahead and learn some great tips. The tips from this article should help you out.