Camping is a fantastic way to get out there and forget about your troubles. Every day life can be full of anxiety and stress, so it's good to step away from it every once in a while. Before you go camping, however, it's useful to keep what you're about to read here in mind at all times.
Always take more water than you think you will use when you go on a camping trip. Many times, people forget how much water is needed. It is used for drinking, washing dishes and hands, cooking and even brushing your teeth. Water is not something you want to be without.
Reserve your spot at a campground as soon as possible. Particularly in the summer, many people are interested in camping with their families. If you make your reservation in the winter, you are much more likely to get the best rate possible. Those savings can translate into additional family fun while on your vacation.
When you are camping, a necessity for your gear is a survival knife. This is the most important part of your camping gear. Buy a high quality survival knife, not just the cheapest you can find, your life may depend on it. These knives are all very similar; they have a long blade serrated on one side and a hollow handle. Inside the handle you can carry fishing line, hooks, a compass, and matches as a small survival kit.
Make sure you are aware of what hospitals are close to your campsite and how to get to them. While you don't want to think about anything bad happening on your trip, it is a possibility. Certain injuries will necessitate a visit to the doctor, so it is best to know where to go before something happens, and you are in panic mode.
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.
Take a bandana or handkerchief with you. These can be used in a pinch if you need a potholder, towel or even something to carry an item in. You will find that you can use these in a lot of versatile ways, so bring one along when you're camping.
Take along pillows that are especially for camping. If you take along a regular bedroom pillow, it can get hot and sticky when it is humid outside. Mildew can grow in it when they absorb the moisture from the air. Pillows designed for camping offer a coating that prevents moisture absorption.
If you're bringing your dog along for the camping trip, make sure it's wearing its tags. Losing track of a pet can be heartbreaking. Make sure your dog is wearing its dog license and an ID with contact information before you leave on your trip. Neglecting to do so can have tragic consequences.
If you are new to camping, you should camp near your home. If you want to end your trip, you will be close to home. Perhaps cabin canvas tent you realize that you've run out of food or haven't packed enough clothing. So many things can go awry for the newbie camper; it's definitely best to find a campground near to home.
Learn how to pitch your tent ahead of time. First-time tent pitching can take time, and you may get frustrated if your first time is at the actual campsite. If you practice doing this ahead of time, it will be a breeze to do once you get to your destination.
Try using dryer lint to help you start your campfire. Start collecting the lint from your dryer's filter about a month before you go on your trip. Just hang a grocery bag next to your dryer and stuff the lint into the bag. Using this method, you can acquire kindling and camp in the same day.
Unless you are a wildlife expert, you should never drink water that you haven't brought to the campsite with you. Water may look crystal clear but actually be home to a host of diseases or bacteria. If you are in an emergency, always choose running water over stagnant water.
Always carry a first-aid kit with you while camping. It should include bandages, antibiotic ointment, wrap bandages for sprains and strains, and peroxide or alcohol for cleaning wounds. Scissors, tweezers and other small tools can be used to remove splinters or ticks. Antacids, over-the-counter pain medicines, and allergy medicines should also be included.
The best way to dress when you are camping is in layers. Weather in the outdoors can change very quickly. It may be chilly early in the morning, but then the afternoon can be incredibly hot and humid. Late evenings often bring another cold spell. With layers of clothes available, you can remove or add them dependent on the changing climate.
When camping out, you're going to have bugs. Some of them are fine, and some of them; you don't want them around you. To limit the amount of bugs you must deal with, keep your campsite clean. Bees and ants are attracted to sugary soda cans and messes, so dispose of your trash immediately.
Ensure that you clean your campsite up whenever you finish using it. Pick up any piece of trash you can find. This is just common courtesy for the people who will be using it whenever you finish. You would want and expect the same thing in return from other people.
It is important that you practice food safety while you are out camping. Use bags that are airtight and your containers should be waterproofed. Food should also be stored in an insulated cooler. Do not place cooked and raw foods in the same area. Before you handle your food, clean your hands properly with soap or other sanitizers, and clean the food prep surfaces. Cook all your foods completely and quickly refrigerate foods.
By now you should see that you can have a lot of fun while camping. Use this advice for help in preparing for your next camping trip. The information can help you enjoy your time instead of fighting with nature during your stay.
