Many people have a negative view of outdoor camping. It is not like that at all. It can mean great food, good times and no bugs if preparations are made. Continue reading to learn more about ensuring the trip is a fun success.
Let all the members of your family have a hand in picking your campsite. Talk about which state to go to. There are many sites in the country to visit that are nearby and are very beneficial. To make your decision easier, pick a few favorites and then vote on the final choice.
Pack a bandana. You can use it as a potholder, bag holder or a towel. It has a multitude of uses and should be an essential part of your outdoor camping gear.
Purchase pillows that are made specifically for camping. Standard bed pillows tend to get sticky in humid weather. These pillows will also retain water from the air during humid conditions, so they can mildew. Pillows made specifically for camping have a protective layer that keeps these things from happening.
Take some things to entertain yourself while in the wild. Fishing poles, decks of cards and games will be fun campsite entertainment. If you have kids going with you, you may want to go a little overboard with the things you take for entertainment.
Make a list of your required camping gear and double check it while packing. Forgetting one or two key items could result in disaster. Make sure to write a list down and cross things off as they are packed. Some important things to put on the list are your tent, tarp, water, food, fire-starters, soap and sleeping bag.
Bring the right sleeping bag for the weather you choose to sleep in. Lighter bags might be good ideas for warmer climates and seasons to avoid unnecessary weight and space usage, but make sure that you have a heavy enough bag to stay warm in cold conditions. Cold weather and winter camping means that you need a sleeping bag that contours your physique so that you can keep body heat during your sleep.
An orange peel may just be the natural answer to repelling mosquitoes when you’re out camping. If you neglected to pack mosquito spray, fear not. Authorities recommend rubbing the interior of an orange peel over exposed skin. This will keep the mosquitoes away for long periods of time.
Pay attention to where you’re setting up camp. Try to steer clear of wasp nests or other pest havens. If you are by plants or flowers, bring pants to block insects. It may be wise to take along bug spray too.
One great piece of equipment to carry while camping is a spare utility knife. An utility knife is the most versatile tool you’ll have as a camper, and bring another one if you should lose the other.
Make sure you have a charged phone somewhere near you, like in the car. You may also want to bring a couple of extra batteries in case one runs out. A cell phone is a great emergency device; make certain it will keep working.
When pitching your tent, always make sure you seal the seams. Tubes of sealer are readily available at the sporting good shop. By doing this, you will prevent wayward animals or rain from making it inside.
At the end of your family camping trip, make sure your camping site is clean. You’ll need some trash bags to clean up everything. Look around for any excess food, don’t leave it behind. A basic camping rule of thumb is to only leave your footprints behind.
By now you should understand that camping can be very fun. Apply what you’ve learned here to your next outdoor camping trip. Doing so makes your entire trip more enjoyable.