Camping can be great fun, but it really isn't something you just want to do on a whim. It will work out much better if you plan a camping trip and plan it well. The following article outlines important things you should consider before heading out for that weekend getting in touch with nature.
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.
When packing for your camping adventure, make sure you pack only what you need for mealtimes. If you are at the campground, your food will have to stay cold so it does not spoil. If you are on the trail, any additional or excess food can be a burden. If you pack just enough food for the time you are on the trail, you will not be weighed down by excess weight.
If you are traveling with children, consider staying at a campground that is specifically designated for families. Campers in these areas know what to expect and will not have an issue if you have a cranky toddler or your children want to run around, scream and play. You will probably be more relaxed as a result and have a better time.
If you'd like to prevent mosquito bites, but want to avoid using harsh chemicals, use an orange peel instead. Rub the orange peel over exposed areas of the skin, such as the neck, arms, face and legs to naturally repel mosquitoes. Not only will the orange peels feel better on your skin than traditional repelling chemicals, but they will smell better, too!
If you are going camping, be sure to have a first aid kit. There are certain things you'll need to include at certain locations (i.e. a snake bite kit.) However, there some basics you should always have with you. Having extras like anti-venom is a good defense for certain kinds of wildlife.
A jungle breakfest is a great way to add excitement to your trip. Use serving sized boxes of cereal, pieces of fruit and juice boxes and tie them to trees near your campsite. When the children awake, tell them that they have to "hunt" to get breakfast. This makes the trip even more magical for kids.
Always become familiar with the potential dangers of a campsite before you enter it. Figure out if there are any poisonous insects, what the land looks like and how the weather will be. Each camping spot is unique and can be dangerous in its own way.
Giving yourself enough time to enjoy your camping trip is key. Plan out your trip far in advance and get a couple of days off from work if possible. You want to enjoy yourself camping for at least a few days, that way you feel like you got the full experience out of it.
Be sure to choose the right site for your camping experience. The camping site can make or break your trip. Try to choose a site that how long will a yurt last is not too far away from help should you need it. Choose a site that is flat and somewhat apart from trees. You want a location that is far from critters and close to aid.
Talk to your kids about common dangers before taking them on a camping trip. Check out the plants that elicit poison ivy to better prepare for the dangers of camping.
Unless you are going to be spending a significant amount of time camping, buying expensive sleeping bags is really unnecessary. Even if your old and musty sleeping bag is rated for below freezing temperatures, it is excellent padding for the ground even when it is hot outside and you will feel comfortable sleeping on it.
Never force anyone to go camping with you, including family or girlfriends. Some people just don't enjoy being in nature, and they will be miserable and in turn, make you miserable as well. If your children are simply not interested, find a babysitter for the weekend and relax alone!
Pick out all of your clothing before you go camping. Make sure you pack enough appropriate clothing for the duration and activity planned for your outing. Pack clothing appropriate for your campsite's climate and weather. Shoes that will hold up and have closed toes are what you should wear for the most part.
If your children are with you, establish a daily routine early on. This will help them adjust to their new surroundings and have a good time. Try to stick to a certain bedtime and eat your meals at about the same time each day. Your kids will be happier, and you will be as well.
If you are on a camping trip and forgot the bowls for stew, make your own from large plastic soda bottles that have been emptied. Just rinse the bottle and cut down the plastic to the depth you need. Lightly sand the edges to smooth out any rough spots and prepare to scoop up dinner!
People that are new at camping sometimes mistakenly set up their camps near restrooms. They have convenience in mind, but might find out the situation is different than they thought. Bathrooms have constant light and lots of foot traffic. After a while, it becomes less of a convenience and more of a hindrance.
Duct tape is a handy item to pack with you on any camping trip. Just like around the home, it has many uses while camping. Duct tape can be used to repair anything. You can close up rips and tears, and bundle things together. You can even put some under your feet before long hikes so that you don't get blisters. You can also use it to bandage injuries.
Few things offer as much serenity and value than enjoying some one-on-one time with mother nature; hopefully this article has given you all the helpful advice you need to make your camping trip go smoothly and without incident. Keep these tips in mind as you pack for the outing and enjoy every minute of it!
