Camping has long been known as a cherished pastime for the young and old alike. It does not matter whether you plan to just kick back by a warm fire and relax, hike or any type of other recreation, you should always be prepared with some basic camping knowledge.
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.
Pick out your sleeping bag according to what season it is. You are going to roast all night long in a sleeping bag designed for cold weather that you camp with during summer. The reverse is also true. Using a light, cool sleeping bag in the middle of winter will keep you very cold. You may even risk hypothermia.
Make sure that you avoid any venomous plants. A good way to do this is to stop at the ranger station and ask what kinds of poisonous plants are in the area so you can identify them if you come into contact with them on the trail. Never eat anything while hiking on the trail if you do not know it is edible.
Camping often sounds like a great deal of fun, and it is; however it does require some special preparation. Before going camping for the first time, make sure you have done some research on tents, food and wildlife survival. It can make the difference between a great trip and a dangerous one.
If you are traveling with children, consider staying at a campground that is specifically designated for families. Campers in these areas know what to expect and will not have an issue if you have a cranky toddler or your children want to run around, scream and play. You will probably be more relaxed as a result and have a better time.
Attempt a "jungle breakfast" with the younger members of your camping party. Pack breakfasts of cereal, juice and fruit in bags and hide them somewhere on the campsite. Then, have the kids go on a hunt for their breakfast when they awaken. This is a great alternative way to keep your kids happy while camping.
The lint from the dryer actually is great to help start campfires. Collect your dryer lint about a month before you go camping. Place the lint you normally throw in the trash in a plastic bag to take with you. The morning of your departure, all you need to do is grab the bag and depart, kindling sorted!
Pour out any water that has accumulated in your freezer each day. You want to do this canvas bell tent with stove jack to prevent the ice inside from melting into the water. It is also a good idea because any contaminants that have entered the water from foods you have in, can be poured off.
Take the time to get a map and to get to know the land. This will help prevent you from getting lost, and to help you figure out how to navigate around your camping grounds throughout your entire trip. This is a good idea to help save time and worry for you.
Take the time to get a map and to get to know the land. This will help prevent you from getting lost, and to help you figure out how to navigate around your camping grounds throughout your entire trip. This is a good idea to help save time and worry for you.
If you're going camping with a pet, take them for a vet visit beforehand. Inform your veterinarian of where you plan to go camping. Get your pet updated on all their vaccinations and be sure they have protection against ticks, mites, and fleas. You can never be too careful when it comes to the safety of a pet.
Know the climate of your camping area. You will want to have the proper clothing packed for the trip. Knowing how cold the nights get or how hot the days are will help you dress best. You will not want to get caught in the great outdoors with inadequate protection.
If you're taking along the kids, pack current pictures of them. In the case that a child goes missing, having their photo at hand could be of great use. When camping far away from your house, remember to bring one in case of an emergency.
Ensure that you clean your campsite up whenever you finish using it. Pick up any piece of trash you can find. This is just common courtesy for the people who will be using it whenever you finish. You would want and expect the same thing in return from other people.
Always ensure you have enough clean water. Water is the single most important thing our bodies need. Always carry enough bottled water with you, especially if you don't have access to a spring. You could also try bringing along iodine packets to sanitize the water that you collect from the backcountry.
Be mindful of the environment when you go camping. Whatever you carry into a campsite, make sure that you remove it when you leave. This will eliminate litter and protect the natural environment. Before leaving, the area you have inhabited should be as clean as you would want it if you were just arriving to camp there that day.
Take along a current picture of any kids you have camping with you. If they get separated from you, having a picture will make finding them a lot easier. Your should always have current pictures of your children with you, but this is especially true when camping.
As previously mentioned in this article's introduction, in general, camping is fun. You must be prepared if you want things to go well. Apply the ideas found above to guarantee a fabulous excursion in the great outdoors. And make sure you do one thing extra, and that's have a good time!
