Vacations are a special time to get away, and camping is one of the most exciting ways of spending that time. If you want to really enjoy going camping, read this article and its tips. You will learn some great advice to use the next time you head to the great outdoors!

Water is critical for your survival when hiking in the backcountry. Carry water purification tablets with you or some sort of water filter that is capable of filtering out bacteria. There are many different kinds available at your local sporting goods store. Whenever you are looking for a water source, make sure the water is flowing; stagnant water can kill you if not treated properly.

Bring a plastic garbage bag and put all of you family’s dirty laundry in it. This keeps the items from mixing in with your clean clothing. It also makes things convenient for you when you return home. You can simply dump out the bag in your washing machine and begin working on it all immediately.

When you pack up your camp site to go home, leave a few logs and some kindling for the next camping group that comes along. If you have ever arrived at your site after dark, you know how tough it can be to find firewood! It’s a very nice pay-it-forward gesture that will probably help out more than you can imagine.

Always take a fully stocked first-aid kit when you venture out on a camping trip. You can put together your own kit with bandages, gauze pads, tweezers, scissors, anti bacteria cream and antiseptic wipes in a sturdy container. You can also buy one of the many excellent ready-made kits to save time.

Consider taking a CPR and first aid class. This is especially important if young children are traveling with you. This way, should an accident occur, at least you are properly prepared until help arrives. Be sure to research beforehand. Knowing about the native species in your camp area, such as snakes or other dangerous animals, is essential.

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.

Bring along a bandana or handkerchief. In emergencies, such cloth can turn into a towel, a potholder or a piece of luggage. It is very versatile, so be sure you take one with you every time you go camping.

If you’re camping with your family, try finding campsites that are pet-friendly. This is a great way for you to get your animals out in the fresh air. Your kids will be happy to have your animals there with you, so it can be a great experience for all of you.

If you are going camping, whether with others or alone, a survival kit is essential. Your kit’s contents will change depending upon the season and location of your trip, but you should always bring the basics. Don’t forget to pack the extra for your location, too, such as antivenom for snake bites.

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.

When you are camping, you should never eat anything unless you are absolutely certain of what it is. There is nothing worse than a strong case of stomach problems when you are far away from both medical attention and a toilet. It is recommended to only eat food that you bring.

When you are packing your clothing for a camping trip, remember that it is best to dress in layers. This way, you can add or remove clothing to make you more comfortable. Take along a rain coat that you can put on top of every other layer to keep you dry if it rains.

Camping is hard work, but it’s also very much fun. Once you figure out what you’re doing, the rewards are numerous. You get to experience nature and the outdoors; picnics are always fun, and you get a chance to sleep under the stars. Nothing beats some of the experiences you can have camping.

Camping can be a lot more enjoyable and easy if you just know what you’re doing, and hopefully you have learned something here. Have a great time on your camping adventure. If you utilize the advice in this article, your next camping adventure will be be enjoyed by all who attend.