Camping is a fun activity that allows you to spend time with family and friends. Yet, it can be seen as something that's hard to get into, so people tend not to attempt it. It isn't that hard if you get the right advice first. Keep reading for camping advice that will turn you into an eager camper in no time.
When packing for your camping trip, make sure to pack either a pair of flip flops or water shoes. These will come in handy in and around the campground. For instance, if you are staying in a campground that has bathroom facilities and you plan on taking a shower, you need to wear shoes in the shower to protect your feet from foot fungus.
If you are planning any kind of backcountry camping, a must carry item is a fire starter kit. If you are in a survival situation, fire is a way to cook, keep you warm, purify water, and signal for help. Many camping stores sell fire starters that can be used when wet and do not require any fuel. Also, try making fire when you are not in a survival situation so you know you can do it if the need arises.
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.
When you decide to go camping you want to make sure that you bring a flashlight with some batteries. You want to be able to see in the middle of the night just in case you have to get up and go to the bathroom, or just to move around.
When going camping, make sure that you bring the right sleeping bag with you. Some sleeping bags will not keep you warm when the temperature dips below 40 degrees, while others will have you sweating all night long because they are too hot. The label on the bag usually will tell you what kinds of temperatures are appropriate for each sleeping bag.
Make sure to see what the weather forecast is for the town you are camping in. There are dozens of websites that can tell you about local climates. Armed with the forecast, you can prepare yourself with appropriate clothing and camping gear.
Bring supplies for 'Smores. 'Smores are an integral part of any camping trip. Simply pack graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows. Toast the marshmallows, then make it the filling to a graham cracker/chocolate sandwich. When you have a 'Smore, you will want 'some more'--bring enough for everyone to have at least two of them!
If you're bringing your dog along for the camping trip, make sure it's wearing its tags. Losing track of a pet can be heartbreaking. Make sure your dog is wearing its dog license and an ID with contact information before you leave on your trip. Neglecting to do so can have tragic consequences.
Cross contamination is not an issue that only affects people that cook at home. When you are cooking outdoors, you still have to worry about not using the same cutting board to cut meat that you do to cut any other foods. If you only have one board, use both sides.
Do not approach any wild animals while you are camping. Something that may appear harmless and adorable could be incredibly territorial. Furthermore, be sure not to feed any animals, as doing so may lead to injuries. Avoid keeping any food inside of your tent to prevent animals from destroying your campsite. Keep it stored away safely or in a nearby tree.
Camp needs to be set up before night begins. If you're driving an RV, find a safe parking spot. If you have a tent, carefully select tent to live in year round the plot of land you are going to use. Getting your camp set up before dark will give you time to get to know your campsite and surrounding area. It is also easier for you to see what is happening, so you won't feel so frustrated.
Duct tape can be a camper's very best friend. When disaster strikes on a camping trip, a roll of heavy-duty duct tape 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 something to entertain yourself when you have some downtime. Bring some board games for the whole family, or bring a book in case you wake up before everyone else. This is a good idea so that you know you are entertained throughout your entire trip and there isn't a dull moment.
If you will be camping in a warm area, you may think it is not necessary to bring a nice sleeping bag. That is a huge mistake as many areas cool off considerably at night. Secondly, a sleeping bag helps to mitigate uneven or rocky ground, allowing for more comfortable sleep.
Is this the first time you are camping? Before you head off on that initial camping trip, practice pitching your tent. This will assure you can effectively pitch your tent and have everything you need to do so. This will help you set up camp in a hurry if you get to the site just before dark.
Be thankful for your opportunity of camping on your campsite by cleaning up more trash than you brought in. This is an excellent method of showing appreciation and being polite to other campers who will be using the site. Pick up all your mess, and pick up a few pieces of other litters that is not yours. If everyone were to follow your example, the great outdoors would be a cleaner place for all.
For easier food preparation on a camping trip, prepare ingredients at home, and pack them in plastic zipper bags. You might want to chop, and other ingredients can be cooked quickly and easily when the prep work is done ahead of time. Throw a few bags of vegetables and meat into a pot over a fire, and you have soup or stew!
Use an old shower curtain as a camping tarp. The next time you switch out your shower curtain, save the old one and you can use it when you go camping. Tarps, or old shower curtains can be used for many things. You can put it under your tent or use it to keep you dry should it rain.
As you now know from the article above, camping is not simply driving out into the wilderness without proper planing. Rather, there are many important things to consider when venturing out to the great outdoors. Keep the tips you've just read on hand and implement them the next time you decide to go camping.
