Camping can be great fun, but it really isn't something you just want to do on a whim. It will work out much better if you plan a camping trip and plan it well. The following article outlines important things you should consider before heading out for that weekend getting in touch with nature.
When you are camping, a necessity for your gear is a survival knife. This is the most important part of your camping gear. Buy a high quality survival knife, not just the cheapest you can find, your life may depend on it. These knives are all very similar; they have a long blade serrated on one side and a hollow handle. Inside the handle you can carry fishing line, hooks, a compass, and matches as a small survival kit.
If you are traveling with children, give them the opportunity to assist you when you get to the campground. They can carry gear, support you as you set up the tent and look for firewood. Not only will it keep them busy and out of trouble, it will be fun for them as well.
Use separate coolers for perishables, ice and drinks. While it does not matter if the perishables and drinks go into the same one, make sure to pack your ice separately. This will keep the temperature down so that you will have ice for much longer than you would have otherwise.
Do not hesitate to pack too much for your kids. Going camping can get really dirty. The dirt is like a magnet that draws your children into the mess. Because of this, your children will likely be filthy by the end of the day. Know that you must accept that fact, but have a change of clothing for them so they can be comfortable. It is important to be prepared.
Over-packing is better than under-packing when it comes to children. Camping can be quite dirty. Kids are seriously attracted to the dirt. Therefore, you will need to understand that a clean trip is probably out of the question. While you can't do much to prevent that, you can at least provide clean clothing, so long as you brought extra. Always prepare!
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.
Your camp should be set up before nightfall. Quickly locate a good parking place if you've brought along an RV. When pitching a tent, locate dry and flat ground. Getting your camp set up before dark will give you time to get to know your campsite and surrounding area. It will also save some time and frustration since you will be able to see better.
Remember, when you are camping you will not have access to many kitchen luxuries. At most, you will have a can opener as well as a basic burner. This means canned foods make a great meal, but even better are things that need very little preparation, like peanut butter sandwiches.
It is important to have a flashlight when you camp, but make sure the batteries are fully charged. One way to be sure the batteries don't accidentally drain on the journey is to put them into the flashlight backwards. That way if the switch is accidentally engaged, they stay charged. Plus, you know where the batteries are.
Be sure to pack a sufficient amount of the proper foods. Food that is resistant to spoiling, or that can be kept cold in your cooler, are the best options to choose. It could end up causing food poisoning and quickly end your trip. There are many great online sources to provide you with information on how to properly prepare and store food for your camping trip.
Since the tent is one of the most important parts of your camping trip, be sure the one you get is appropriate. Figure out how many people are coming on the trip so you can get a big enough tent. Also, make sure the tent you get prevents moisture from getting inside.
Never force anyone to go camping with you, including family or girlfriends. Some people just don't enjoy being in nature, and they will be miserable and in turn, make you miserable as well. If your children are simply not interested, find a babysitter for the weekend and relax alone!
If you are going camping with a tent you have never used before, put it up in your backyard before you leave. When you get to your campsite, it might be dark and raining, and you might have to go on feel and memory pitching the thing. So, it helps to have done it at least once before.
Before you head out for your camping trip, be sure that you take the time to practice setting up your tent. You do not want to get yourself frustrated at the site. Setting the tent up the second time will be much easier than it was the first time around.
Don't forget to watch your children. It is easy for children to get lost, and cars often come and go. It only takes a second for something to happen, so make sure that your children always have the supervision that they need.
If you're having trouble keeping warm at night, wear a hat. It can get cold out in nature. As cold as it gets, however, it can be quite stifling to keep your head tucked inside your sleeping bag at all times. Pack a warm woolen hat to wear while you sleep.
Don't assume that camping close to the bathroom facilities is a good idea. It may be convenient in some ways, but there are a lot of issues with that. Bathrooms are not only sources of light, but they receive quite cotton canvas bell tent a bit of traffic. This can lead to difficulty sleeping and other discomforts that you want to avoid.
In conclusion, going on a camping trip is for you, if you enjoy being outdoors. But, it's crucial that you are properly prepared for your trip if you want to have a good time. The tips this article has provided you with can be used to help you have the best camping trip ever.
