While you may think that getting deep into the woods or mountains is easy, it’s important to have some making information in mind before you go for the sake of your safety. The hints and tips laid out here give you great advice for making your future camping trips a wonderful success.

A good multi-purpose tool needs to be part of your camping gear. There are two kinds to bring. First is the saw/hammer/axe 3-in-1 tool to use for firewood and other chores. The other is the standard multi-purpose tool with a variety of tools on it like a can opener, tweezers, scissors, and a knife.

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 large trash bag for dirtied laundry, and keep it in a central location, suitable for everyone in your party. Let them pack their clothing individually, as this makes it much easier to find than if you pile it all in a community storage box or bag. Toss in a dryer sheet to any bag you want smelling fresh.

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.

Let all of your family members have a chance to contribute to picking a campsite. Openly talk about the various options available to you. The U.S. has dozens of great camping options. If it simplifies things, pick four or five favorites and then give everyone a vote.

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.

If you are camping and the weather is starting to rise significantly, tale the coolers that you have with you and put them somewhere in the shade. It will also help to keep them covered with some type of tarp. This will keep the temperature inside the cooler from rising too much.

Bring supplies for ‘Smores. ‘Smores are an integral part of any camping trip. Simply pack graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows. Toast the marshmallows, then make it the filling to a graham cracker/chocolate sandwich. When you have a ‘Smore, you will want ‘some more’–bring enough for everyone to have at least two of them!

You should always have some duct tape along on any camping adventure. Just as it has myriad uses around the house, you can use it for a variety of needs in the woods, too. It can be used to fix a hole in your air mattress. You can close up rips and tears, and bundle things together. If you plan to take a long hike, be sure to place some on feet to avoid developing blisters. It can also work as a bandage.

Before leaving for your trip, write a list of what you need to bring along. This is especially crucial if the campgrounds are in a remote location. Make sure you have everything you need and pack a couple days before leaving.

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.

Recreational camping is not just for warm weather. If you are feeling especially adventurous, you can go camping in early spring and late fall at most camping grounds. You can even camp in the snow if you have the right gear. Make sure your sleeping bags are suitable for whatever weather you are camping in.

Don’t forget waterproof matches in a camping survival kit. The container should be airtight. You can convert standard matches into waterproof ones simply by dipping each one into substances like nail polish or paraffin. Easy-to-find 35mm film canisters and plastic medicine bottles make handy cases for matches.

The more organized you are, the better your camping trip will be. You will feel safer, secure, and more relaxed when you use these camping tips.