Camping is a great way to escape from the "real world". It lets you get out into nature while forgetting about things for a little bit. Keep reading to find advice and insights for making the most of your next camping trip.
While it may be that there's enough wood around to keep a fire going for a long time, some of the wood may be wet and cannot burn no matter what you try. Bringing some extra wood in a watertight wrapping is a smart idea for camping success.
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.
At night, create "bear bags." Tie a rope around the bags with your food and your trash. Then, find a tree and toss bags over a branch, raising until they are at least seven or eight feet off the ground. Tie the rope around the tree so it is secure. This way, bears and other animals will not be able to get into your food and trash during the night.
Remember to pack a camera. There are some memories you're going to want to capture on your camping trip. Bring along a small camera that can fit in your pocket. Try to pack something durable that could stand getting dropped or becoming a bit wet. Consider using a disposable camera.
Make sure you have cover in case of rain. When you're out in the woods, a rainstorm can be wet, cold and uncomfortable. Make sure you have some kind of protection against the rain, whether it be a tent, cabin or lean-to. In a pinch, you can use a garbage bag as a poncho!
Know what is available in the area around your campsite. You may get lucky and have beautiful weather the entire time. However, you may also face inclement weather, too. Have a backup plan in case you need a diversion. This is particularly crucial if you have kids, but adults need a little entertainment as well!
Make sure that you bring things to occupy yourself when camping. Create a good scavenger hunt list, pack some fishing poles and carry along some board or card games to entertain you while sitting in the middle of the woods. Children often complain that they're bored wherever they go, so bring along as many items as you can think of to keep them entertained.
Let people know where your group is headed. Just in case anything happens to any of you, you want to know that there are people who know where you are at. This is a good precautionary measure to take if something were to happen to your camping group, because help will be on the way soon.
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.
Save space in your bag by leaving mixing spoons and containers behind, and instead just bring plastic zip-lock bags. Place the foods or liquids that rugged you want to mix in the bag, and ensure that the zipper is well closed before mixing. Not only do the bags take up considerably less space than bowls and spoons, but they're much more lightweight as well!
Never park your vehicle under a single tree when you are at a campsite. If there is a storm, it will attract lightning. This also means that you should avoid sleeping under any trees that are in a particular area by themselves. Try to be in an area that is free of trees or one that has many.
An orange peel can help to avoid insect bites. Don't worry if you forgot your bug spray. Experts have said that you can just rub inner side of an orange peel on any exposed skin. This should give you the protection that you need while out in the wilderness.
Charge all of your electronic equipment such as your cell phones and gaming equipment for the children to the max before you go to a camping trip. You want to get the most out of their charge when you do decide to use them, so make sure they are charged.
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.
A Frisbee is a great toy to take for entertainment when camping. It is easy to pack and fun. But in addition to its use as a game, it is also a great way to strengthen a paper plate. Just place the plate into the middle of the Frisbee at meal times and the plate will not collapse no matter how big your hamburger.
If your children are with you, establish a daily routine early on. This will help them adjust to their new surroundings and have a good time. Try to stick to a certain bedtime and eat your meals at about the same time each day. Your kids will be happier, and you will be as well.
Food poisoning is a common danger of camping stemming from improper food storage. Bring preserved foods and foods that don't spoil easily. Pack perishables in ice, and don't forget to pull out the drain plug of the cooler to keep food from getting wet.
Waterproof matches are an essential part of any camping survival kit. Store these in a waterproof and airtight bag or container. A regular match can be made waterproof by dipping it in nail polish or paraffin. Provide your own caddy for the matches by storing them in a plastic medicine bottle or 35mm film container.
By doing some planning and some research, you can take an ordinary camping trip and turn it into something truly special. Take the time to use these tips to plan your next family camping trip and everyone will have a great time. Create the memories that last a lifetime this year!
