When you go camping with your family, you are likely to create memories that everyone remembers for a lifetime. But are the memories good ones filled with smiles and laughter? Or is just the trip that no one ever wants to talk about? The difference is largely in your knowledge and preparation for the trip. Read on for tips you can use towards camping success.
If you are camping at a public campground, make sure you pack shower shoes for everyone in your party. Not only will they protect your feet from the bacteria on the shower floor, but they are great for those nighttime runs to the bushes when you need to use the restroom. They can be old flip flops, Crocs, or even slip-ons.
Make sure you plan out your route in advance of your trip. Look to see if there are any special places that you can stop at along the way. It will make the drive much more enjoyable and you may have a lot of fun in the process. Granted, you may need to get to your destination quickly, but if you have time, taking the scenic route is worth it.
It is better to over-pack than to under-pack, especially for kids. Going camping can get really dirty. Kids love to play in the dirt and will bring it back to your tent. As the day goes on, you may end up with messy, dirty kids. To prepare, bring additional clothing for your children. It’s best to be prepared.
Before going camping, take a course in first aid, especially if you plan to bring children with you. Camping can be very remote, so it is best to be able to deal with emergencies on your own, until help can be reached. Also remember to research other dangers near your camping location. You should be aware of the poisonous snakes, wild animals, etc., that inhabit the area.
Make sure you know what’s covered in your medical insurance. Traveling to a different area may necessitate that you purchase another policy. This becomes even more important if your camping trip takes you to another country. Always be prepared.
Purchase pillows that are made specifically for camping. Standard pillows can get hot and sticky in humid weather. They also take moisture from the air and that makes them grow mildew fast. Camping pillows use a coating to lock moisture out to improve your comfort level.
Be prepared for colder weather than expected when choosing a sleeping bag to bring on your camping trip. Always choose a sleeping bag rated for a temperature range just below what you’re expecting, even in the summertime. Also, sleeping bags made with synthetic fibers will dry out faster if it rains unexpectedly, but natural fiber sleeping bags will be lighter to carry.
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.
Know the climate of your camping area. You will want to have the proper clothing packed for the trip. Knowing how cold the nights get or how hot the days are will help you dress best. You will not want to get caught in the great outdoors with inadequate protection.
Camping trips with your family become the memories of legend. Sometimes these memories are good, sometimes they are bad. To give your next camping trip the highest chances of success, apply all the ideas that you have read in this article. They can serve as the tent of knowledge that protects you.