Whether you are new to camping or an old pro, there are plenty of things you can learn about camping. Camping is one of those experiences where you can always learn something new. Therefore, this article is good for you--it contains information and tips to make your camping experience great.
Try to get to the campsite well before nightfall. This allows you to get a feel for the lay of the land and gives you the opportunity to set up camp while you can still see what you are doing. In addition, it lets your children feel a little more comfortable with their surroundings because they will have time to explore.
If you are going backcountry camping, you should probably carry a snake bite kit in your gear. The best snake bite kits are the ones that use suction. Some kits have scalpels and blood flow constrictors in them. Scalpels can actually cut the poison into the blood stream faster, and constrictors can be deadly if not used properly.
A major mistake that campers make is they will get lost on occasion. Do not let this happen to you. If you are unfamiliar with the area you are camping in or if you are in a wilderness area, do not stray too far from your campsite. A portable GPS is an excellent investment if you are planning any kind of wilderness camping adventure.
Bring enough food and snack items to last you throughout the whole trip. You don't want to spend your time going to get food every meal, enjoy yourself while you are camping. Bring cereal, hot dogs, and all of your other favorite food items that will fuel you throughout your trip.
Preparation can make your camping trip easy and relaxing. Only go camping when you have prepared yourself for it. Research the place that you are traveling to, which will help you to understand the climate and geography.
One smart thing to bring along camping is duct tape. A roll of duct tape has a great number of uses on a campsite. Duct tape can be used to repair anything. It can also be used on your tarp or tent. Putting some on your feet before hiking can prevent blisters. You can also use it to bandage injuries.
A big concern with many people who go camping is the bugs. Do not get stuck in the middle of nowhere without having some sort of bug repellant. Check your surroundings before setting up camp for any wasp nests or ant hills that could cause you problems. Wear long pants and long-sleeved whenever possible and inspect yourself for ticks occasionally.
If you are on a camping trip and forgot the bowls for stew, make your own from large plastic soda bottles that have been emptied. Just rinse the bottle and cut down the plastic to the depth you need. Lightly sand the edges to smooth out any rough spots and prepare to scoop up dinner!
Be prepared for colder weather than expected when choosing a sleeping bag to bring on your camping trip. Always choose a sleeping bag rated for a temperature range just below what you're expecting, even in the summertime. Also, sleeping bags made with synthetic fibers will dry out faster if it rains unexpectedly, but natural fiber sleeping bags will be lighter to carry.
In this modern age, there is no excuse for being in the woods without some form of communication ability. Of course, no one likes to receive phone calls when they are relaxing, so leave your phone off but fully charged, just in case there is an emergency, and you need to contact someone.
A checklist is essential before embarking on any camping journey. A list will help you to not forget to bring any essentials. Pack a few days before your camping trip is supposed to happen and check off your list while you go through things.
People who are going camping would be wise to stay away from axes to do their chopping. Sure an Ax might make you feel manly, but in many conditions, particularly when it is wet outside, 4 man canvas tent or you are tired, an ax is a one-way ticket to the hospital.
A great tip for anyone that is going camping is to take plenty of water. In this case, there is absolutely no such thing as too much water. Plan out how much water you will need and then try and at least double the amount just to be on the safe side.
If you have other people sleeping nearby your campsite, do not bother them by leave your awning lights on during the entire night. Instead, use a timer that you can set to turn the lights off after a certain time period. By doing this, you won't bother others with your lights.
Keep bears away by properly storing your food and disposing of your waste. When you leave food out or in your tent or shelter, nearby bears may destroy your site to find it. Keep it safe and way from your camp. Try placing it in a high place like on a tall tree branch or on a rope.
Practice tying different kinds of knots, building fires and sharpening knives before you head out for your camping adventure. Knowing how to do these essential things ahead of time will save you from having to learn them on-site. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy yourself during your camping trip.
Dress in layers when camping. Sometimes the weather changes unexpectedly. It can be chilly in the early morning, only to be followed up with a sweltering, humid afternoon. The evenings may turn cold again very quickly. By dressing in layers of clothing, you can easily shed layers when the temperature rises and then add layers when the temperature drops.
If children will be coming along on a camping trip, be sure to pack several items to keep them entertained during down-times and after dark. Playing cards, board games, paper and crayons and story books will keep them from being bored long after the campfire has been put out.
Camping can be a lot more enjoyable and easy if you just know what you're doing, and hopefully you have learned something here. Your camping time will be so much more enjoyable now that you've taken the time to educate yourself. Apply what you've learned here, and have a great trip.
