As we watch more and more outdoor-themed TV shows, it is no surprise that many more families are heading out camping these days. Read on to learn the right way to create a fun, safe and memorable camping trip.
You might think nature naturally provides all the wood you need, but the wood where you are could have already been picked clean, or it could be wet. It’s a great idea to carry your own wood with you and to keep it secure in a dry area.
Do not worry that you have packed too much stuff for the kids. Camping can be a bit messy. Kids love the dirt. As the day goes on, you may end up with messy, dirty kids. By packing a few extra changes of clothes, your children can be presentable at dinner. Don’t be caught without something you need!
Enroll in a first aid course, especially if your trip will include kids. Accidents happen, and taking the right precautions will ensure you know how to better a poor situation. You should also research the area you plan on camping in. Know the types of wild animals that inhabit the woods and gain understanding of any poisonous snakes or plants nearby.
Pack a bandanna or handkerchief. A bandana is very versatile and can be used as a blotter, potholder, mini-bag and more. As you can see, a handkerchief can serve many different purposes on a camping trip.
Always have an emergency kit on hand when camping with family, or even staying alone. This kit should contain the basics, but should evolve as you change your camping locations. Take things for specific creatures as well, like antivenom.
Use specialty camping pillows when camping. If you use your bedroom pillows, the humid weather will make them feel hot and sticky. On top of that, they will mildew rapidly as they suck in moisture. Camping pillows have a protective coating on them to prevent the absorption of moisture.
It’s important that you make an effort to ensure that all camping gear you will need is packed before you leave to go camping. You can not afford to forget an important item like your sleeping bag or your tent. Use a check list that you can use to double check, to be sure that you have everything before you leave home.
Research the area you are planning to camp in and familiarize yourself with its particular dangers. For example, there might be poisonous spiders or dangerous trails. Every camping area has its dangers.
Always take along plenty of food, and be sure it’s the proper kind. Take a decent amount of food that won’t spoil when you go camping. Food poisoning can put a miserable end to an otherwise lovely trip. Take the proper steps to prepare your food and do research if necessary.
Protect your canine companion on the trip by keeping him leashed and under careful supervision. There are people who do not like dogs, so you will want to keep them in control. You must show respect for others when you camp. Also, dogs can cause damage if you let them run free, so be sure to keep control of them at all times.
Camping is about being one with nature and living off the basics, but it is important to go prepared. You’ll need a sleeping bag, as well as extra blankets. This can help you stay warm if it cools down at night or you may use them for extra padding.
Bring along extra flashlights, lanterns and spare batteries when you go camping. Even after the sun is gone, you may need to see. Without a flashlight, you could easily fall or be surprised by an animal. If your children are along on your camping trip, give them each their own flashlight.
It’s a good choice to take off from your automobile or base when your phone has a full battery. Also, bring additional batteries in the event of an emergency. This is an important thing to have and you need to make sure you can use it if you need.
Take time to learn map and compass reading. If you are lost, this skill can help you to navigate back to your destination. You can avoid things going wrong if you know how to operate these great lifesaving tools.
When preparing a survival kit for a camping trip, you should bring along waterproof matches. Store waterproof matches in a canister that is airtight. You also can create waterproof matches yourself by taking regular ones and dipping them in nail polish or paraffin. Provide your own caddy for the matches by storing them in a plastic medicine bottle or 35mm film container.
As crazy as it seems, packing a roll or two of toilet paper is a great idea when you are going camping. If there are no toilets at your destination, you will need to use nature as a bathroom. It is best not to use something from nature to clean yourself, so toilet paper will come in handy.
Maintain food safety on your camping trip. Pack your foods in bags or containers that are airtight and waterproof. Keep cold foods in ice in insulated containers. Make sure to keep your raw food and cooked food separate. Always wash your hands, cutting boards and preparation surfaces to optimize safety and keep yourself from getting food poisoning. Cook foods to proper temperatures and chill foods quickly.
There are several things to consider about camping. Now, you should have the information you need to handle the basics. By knowing what you can expect, you can just relax and enjoy yourself!