What do you call a campsite without a tent?
Are you thinking about camping? If so, are you prepared for the usual challenges that nature can throw your way? Camping trips can be pretty basic in terms of expectations, but don't overlook the importance of thinking through your trip prior to leaving on it. Keep reading for some helpful tips.
One of the most important parts of your camping gear is your tent. The tent you buy should suit your needs and the size of your camping party. If you have young children, you probably want to purchase a large tent so they can sleep in the same tent with you. If your children are old, buy them their own tent so they don't have to bunk with the adults.
Select your sleeping bag with the weather, season and location of your trip in mind. Bringing a sub-zero type of sleeping bag to use on a trip in the summer will make you sweat the entire night. On the other hand, light-weight sleeping supplies will never keep you warm enough in the dead of winter. Without protection, you are running the risk of developing hypothermia.
Make sure you have a survival kit with you during your entire camping trip. Things to include in your survival pack are a knife, matches that are waterproof, first aid kit, flares and tablets to purify water. These items are important to have in case you get lost. This kit should be carried with you and not left back at camp.
When you decide to go camping you want to make sure that you bring a flashlight with some batteries. You want to be able to see in the middle of the night just in case you have to get up and go to the bathroom, or just to move around.
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.
Many people are deterred from camping because they have to sleep on the ground, but you do not have to be uncomfortable when you go camping. Stop by the local drug store and purchase some inexpensive pool floats. These are far more comfortable than the ground to sleep on, and will keep you high and dry as well.
When preparing for a camping trip, people often fail to bring enough clothes. Remember that there will be no washing facilities, and you also need to think about how the weather can call for certain glamping furniture specific attire as well at times. You always want to be prepared, so pack accordingly.
Do not leave your sleeping bag rolled up until right before it is time for you to get some sleep. Lay it out right away so that it can loft up and give you the highest level of insulation. Do the same for any sleeping pads you have brought along.
When you select the location for your tent, be sure that it is the right place. The ground should be level and do what you can to avoid setting it up at the bottom of a hill. This will help you keep it dry if the weather should turn bad.
Never park your vehicle under a single tree when you are at a campsite. If there is a storm, it will attract lightning. This also means that you should avoid sleeping under any trees that are in a particular area by themselves. Try to be in an area that is free of trees or one that has many.
Charge all of your electronic equipment such as your cell phones and gaming equipment for the children to the max before you go to a camping trip. You want to get the most out of their charge when you do decide to use them, so make sure they are charged.
An indispensable item to pack for your camping trip is Ziploc bags. You can separate items in your gear like sunscreen and bug spray so if they puncture they do not get all over your gear. You can also use them to keep items like matches and cellphones dry if it rains.
Before you head out for your camping trip, be sure that you take the time to practice setting up your tent. You do not want to get yourself frustrated at the site. Setting the tent up the second time will be much easier than it was the first time around.
Be prepared if you get lost on a camping trip. You should know how to use a map, compass, and GPS device before leaving for your trip. You should also keep these on your person during your trip. If you stray too far from your campsite, these items can help you get back quickly and safely.
When your camping trip is over, make sure to leave a clean campsite behind. Get some trash bags and clean up your mess. Remove any traces of food from the campsite. The only thing you want left are your footprints when you are gone.
Be aware of the location of your campsite. You have to be sure you don't set up next to stinging insects or anything unsafe. To keep the bugs off of your skin, wear garments that cover your skin especially if plant life is abundant. You should also have insect repellent.
Pay attention to where you're setting up camp. Always avoid camping near a bee's nest or insect breeding grounds. When staying near plants, use long sleeved shirts as well as pants; this avoids insect issues. You might also want to carry bug repellent too.
Now that you know what it takes to have a good camping trip get ready for many exciting adventures to come. Use everything that you learned today about camping to enjoy yourself with a good time away from your normal routine of life, and to get an experience you'll never forget.