It’s always important to do a little research about camping before setting off on your trip. There are so many different things that can happen while you are out there. It doesn’t hurt to be prepared, and can save you a lot of trouble. Here is some advice to help you have the best camping trip possible.
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.
Water is very important when camping. When camping at a campground, there should be ample supply of water available, but on the trail, you will have to carry some with you. If you are going long distances, you should probably carry iodine tablets to sanitize any water you find before drinking. Be careful, dysentery can be deadly.
Camping is a great time but it can be dangerous if you’re not able to properly prepare. Always be well prepared prior to leaving on your camping trip. When heading to a new spot, be sure to research the area thoroughly so you know what to expect with regard to weather and wildlife.
Dryer lint can make great kindling for creating campfires. Begin collecting dryer lint a few weeks before your trip. Simply hang a plastic bag near the dryer and stash the lint in the bag as it collects. That way, it will be convenient to just grab it at put it in your car at the last minute.
If you are camping with others, ensure that there is something available to keep everyone entertained. There is nothing worse than a bored campmate, as they will constantly pester you for activities. Talk to your family and friends before hand and make sure they know how to entertain themselves for the trip.
When planning a camping trip, be sure to plan on getting to your campsite before dark. This way you will have daylight in order to set up camp, check out your site for dangers, such as broken glass, dangerous tree branches and other potential dangers or problems that can be fixed before bedtime.
Before heading out to go camping, compile a checklist of items that you plan to bring. This is especially crucial if the campgrounds are in a remote location. Pack several days before you leave, and check things off as you go.
You need to carry water that is clean if you will not have access to a safe spring or to clean tap water when you’re camping. You can either carry your own water in bottles or bring some iodine with you to sanitize nearby water. You can also use a water filter or boil water for around 10 minutes.
Always be aware of where your camp is located. Don’t set up camp near wasps or other insect homes. If the campsite has a lot of vegetation, protect exposed skin by wearing long pants and sleeves. A strong bug spray is also something you want on hand, especially if the vegetation is very thick.
If you decide to leave your campsite to participate in activities like fishing or hiking, be sure you know how to get back. Many people become lost when doing these things and it could be hard for you to be found; remember, most cell phones do not work in these areas.
Duct tape is a great fix-all for camping trips. Tents are generally well-made nowadays, but rips and tears do happen. Duct tape can seal up your tent and keep you dry, especially when the weather is not cooperating with you like you thought it would.
Make a list of the things you need for your camping trip and check each item off once you pack it. Then, make sure you bring each bag to the car. The last thing any camper wants is to reach the sight and find out they forgot something important, like matches or the food.
A great tip for anyone who is planning a camping trip is to bring along some hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer is great for keeping your hands germ free, but it can also act as a disinfectant if you get a cut somewhere on your body and don’t have access to first aid.
As you can see, camping isn’t as easy as just setting up a tent and falling asleep. There are plenty of other things to think about as well. Now that you’re more knowledgeable about camping, you should have no trouble coming up with a plan to make your camping trip go well.