Camping can be fun and exciting for people that are young, old or anywhere in between. One way to make sure you have a safe and happy trip is to make yourself aware of the best camping tips and tricks. The following article will help you prepare for your trip out into the wilderness.
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.
If you are planning any kind of backcountry camping, a must carry item is a fire starter kit. If you are in a survival situation, fire is a way to cook, keep you warm, purify water, and signal for help. Many camping stores sell fire starters that can be used when wet and do not require any fuel. Also, try making fire when you are not in a survival situation so you know you can do it if the need arises.
If you are traveling with children, give them the opportunity to assist you when you get to the campground. They can carry gear, support you as you set up the tent and look for firewood. Not only will it keep them busy and out of trouble, it will be fun for them as well.
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.
Figure out your new gear before you go camping. The practice does really help. No one wants to get to the campground, only to find out that they don’t know how to use something or set up their own tent. Practice with your new gear before you ever set foot on the campground.
Don’t be afraid to over-pack for your children. Camping can be messy. Kids love to play in dirt. This means that your kids will get dirty during the day. It is almost impossible to prevent, but luckily, you will not need to worry if you have extra clothes on hand. Be ready for anything.
Introduce yourselves to other families camping in your immediate area, as a means of being social and more apt to help each other out. If another crew arrives after you’ve set up, offer to help with their tent or equipment. If something goes awry during the trip for anyone, it’s much easier to ask for help from somebody who was courteous enough to introduce themselves.
When planning for your camping trip, don’t forget to pack the sunscreen. Just because you are not on the beach doesn’t mean that you don’t need protection from the sun’s burning rays. A sport sunscreen can be a smart choice if you will be doing strenuous physical activities during your trip.
Take along pillows that are especially for camping. Regular pillows do not hold up well in the outdoor air. They can mildew quickly after absorbing moisture. Pillows made especially for camping have a protective outer layer that prohibits moisture absorption.
Camping is a classic pastime loved by both the young and young-at-heart. It is a good idea to learn as much as you can before going on your next trip. Hopefully the information you learned here will help you enjoy your camping trip.