There is nothing more exciting than a well planned camping trip. You may also find that it helps with self-awareness and lets you develop a love of the natural world. You can build a campfire, as well as go hiking. There are endless numbers of ways in which one can enjoy a camping trip. In this article, however, we are just going to go over some basic ways in which one can get the maximum out of one's camping experience.
Water is critical for your survival when hiking in the backcountry. Carry water purification tablets with you or some sort of water filter that is capable of filtering out bacteria. There are many different kinds available at your local sporting goods store. Whenever you are looking for a water source, make sure the water is flowing; stagnant water can kill you if not treated properly.
When camping, be sure to locate a shelter before dark. Finding the right spot for your tent, gathering firewood and making dinner are all a lot tougher after darkness settles in. This is particularly the case for city slickers who are unaccustomed to darkness. Avoid being in that position; find good shelter before the sun goes down.
Be certain that your tent has enough space for both yourself and whoever else comes with you. This makes it possible for everyone to sleep comfortably, and it also allows for room to move about and exit the tent if nature calls.
When you pack up your camp site to go home, leave a few logs and some kindling for the next camping group that comes along. If you have ever arrived at your site after dark, you know how tough it can be to find firewood! It's a very nice pay-it-forward gesture that will probably help out more than you can imagine.
Get a sleeping bag that is warm enough. This is important. Even if you go camping in the summertime, nights can get very cold out in the wild. There are sleeping bags promising protection from varying cold temperatures; it is a good idea to opt for as low a temperature as you can find.
Make sure that the cooler you are taking with you is air tight. You do not want your food to spoil because the cooler was allowing the cool air to get out. Store your cooler in a shaded area where the sun will not work against it. This could save your food and your stomach.
When kids are in your camping party, it is important to let them know what the rules are as soon as you get there. They must have strict guidelines to follow, or they could get hurt or annoy others. For example, talk to them about screaming and how their voices could disturb others. It is much harder to enforce rules after you have been there for a few days, so get going early.
Be certain that your tent has enough space for both yourself and whoever else comes with you. With enough room, getting up during the night will not disturb others in the tent, and you can all be comfortable while sleeping.
To avoid blistered and chapped feet on your camping trip, bring a bar of soap along! Prior to any lengthy walk, rub the soap into the heals of your socks and this will minimize friction, thus reducing soreness. Keep the soap in your pocket for a quick dose when your feet start feeling beat-up or blistered.
Choose your campsite carefully. The location in which you're camping can make all the difference. Do plenty of research before you make any plans. What is the weather like? Does the campsite have specific rules? How crowded will the campsite be? Poor planning can make for a miserable camping experience.
Come prepared for everything when you're preparing to camp. Try to plan your camping trip as best you can, but know that unexpected events can arise. Weather conditions can turn on a dime, your surroundings can change suddenly and injuries can occur at any time. It's important that you take care of everything, don't take risks that you don't need to, and think things through before doing them.
When camping, many people wake up in the morning, only to find out they they have left items out that are now wet. This is because of the morning dew, which can hardly be avoided. If the weather conditions are right, dew is inevitable, so make sure you put things away.
Do not leave your sleeping bag rolled up until right before it is time for you to get some sleep. Lay it out right away so that it can loft up and give you the highest level of insulation. Do the same for any sleeping pads you have brought along.
Pack your things with care. Make a list of what you'll need and check it off as you get things packed. This tip is always important, but especially so if your camping trip will take you to a remote area that does not provide access to food, shelter or emergency supplies.
Duct tape can be a camper's very best friend. When disaster strikes on a camping trip, a roll of heavy-duty duct tape tough tents will usually save the day. If the tent fabric needs patching in the rain, duct tape will hold back the water. When tent poles need reinforcing, the duct tape will provide support. Do you have holes in your tennis shoes? Duct tape right over it. Whatever the mishap, a roll of duct tape is sure to help!
Take along a current picture of any kids you have camping with you. This can come in handy if they are separated from you while on your trip. A picture should be carried anytime you are away from home, but even more importantly when camping in the woods.
When camping, ensure you have entertainment. Of course, if you bring too many electronics, you may defeat the purpose of the trip, but there is nothing better than sitting beside a lake reading, or listening to music beside a camp fire at night.
Leave your camping spot as clean as, or cleaner than you found it. It is important to show respect to the land and to others by cleaning up your camping area. If it was a mess when you got there, you can do a good deed and make it cleaner.
Camping is a fun experience, but requires being prepared and knowing a few things. Use these tips to prepare for your next outing. When you use this newly found knowledge, you can't help but have a great trip.
