There are so many things to think about when it comes to camping, it can seem like there is too much to handle when you try and go camping. Yet once you break it down, it isn’t all that difficult to plan out a camping trip, you can learn that ahead.
Plan accordingly when it comes to food. It is a hassle to make room in your car for all the food you need. However, proper nourishment is crucial when you are in the woods. Also, items that are fairly inexpensive in your local store often carry a higher price tag near camping sites. Bringing enough food means that you will save money and keep everyone in your family in a good mood.
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.
Prior to leaving, take a few minutes to make a checklist of everything that you need. There is nothing worse than getting to a campsite and then finding out that you don’t have what you need to be comfortable. A checklist is a great aid as you are packing. Try to start getting thing’s together several days before you leave so you have plenty of time.
Navigation is the key when it comes to camping. It is important to know where you are, and how to get back to civilization if you become lost. Always bring a map of the area, and a compass to help you. You can also use an outdoor GPS that will give you navigation information, as well as additional information such as altitude.
Allow everyone who is going on the trip to have a say about the campsite. Talk about the state you wish to see. There are millions of options just in the United States, and it can sometimes be difficult to choose the perfect one! Narrow down your top choices and let your entire family decide.
If you are using a tent for camping, put a great deal of thought into buying your tent. Consider the climate. Consider your price range. How often will you be using this tent? You don’t want to buy a tent that won’t be able to stand up to the elements. At the same time, you don’t need to pay a fortune for a tent you plan to only use once.
Make a list of things you need to take with you before you go camping. You may think you are great at packing, but little else is worse than being out in the middle of the woods and realizing you forgot your allergy medication. Sit down and create a comprehensive list of everything you might need during the week before your camping trip.
Incorporate swimming into your camping trip. A hot shower can be sorely missed. When swimming, you will feel refreshed and cleaner. If you use some biodegradable soap, you can get just as clean as you would at home.
Bring a hankerchief or a bandanna with you. These can be used in a pinch if you need a potholder, towel or even something to carry an item in. Because there are so many versatile uses for them, bringing one or two on each camping trip is a good idea.
Consider purchasing inexpensive walkie-talkies to take with you on your next camping trip to provide a way to keep in touch with everyone in your party in areas where cell phone reception may not be available. This can be especially important if you are camping with children and need to keep track of their whereabouts.
Prepare some of the food ahead of time so you will not have to mess around with it at the camp site. Make up some sandwiches, precook the pasta and take along foods that can be eaten as is to make each meal less tedious. Other meals can be enjoyable to prepare in the woods, but some should be ready to go on the days the weather is not perfect.
Getting to know what there is to know about camping is a good thing to have in your head. Even if you aren’t going to plan out a camping trip any time soon, it is at least a good idea to make sure that you know what it does take to go camping for future advice.