How heavy should your backpacking tent be?
Camping can be a great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors. It can also be an experience that you would give anything to forget. If you properly plan for your trip, it will turn out great. Use the following tips to prepare for your next camping trip to make it one you want to remember.
It's imperative that you pitch your tent before the sun goes down. You do not want to be stuck trying to put your tent together or finding a safe location for the tent when it's pitch black outside. This is especially true if you are an urbanite whose sight is not used to the pitch dark. Don't let this happen to you. Look for adequate shelter before it gets this dark.
When going camping, you must make sure that you keep a list of all of the supplies that you plan to bring. You have to make sure you include everything that you will need on your trip. This is the best way to make sure that you don't forget something for your trip.
Did you know that a simple mirror can save your life? If you are camping and end up in a survival situation, a simple hand held mirror can be used to signal for help many miles away. Do not buy the standard glass mirror, many camping supply stores sell mirrors made of Lexan that will float and are practically unbreakable.
Try to get to the campsite well before nightfall. This allows you to get a feel for the lay of the land and gives you the opportunity to set up camp while you can still see what you are doing. In addition, it lets your children feel a little more comfortable with their surroundings because they will have time to explore.
Bring a plastic garbage bag and put all of you family's dirty laundry in it. This keeps the items from mixing in with your clean clothing. It also makes things convenient for you when you return home. You can simply dump out the bag in your washing machine and begin working on it all immediately.
Take oranges with you as a way to snack in a healthy, convenient way--and as a mosquito repellent that is organic. Use the discarded peels to rub your exposed skin, and the insects will stay away from you.
When you are heading out for that long awaited camping trip, don't forget to take along your cell phone. You may be tempted to leave all the texting and calls behind, but your cell phone can be one of your most important safety lifelines in the event of an emergency. Make sure it is fully charged and keep it protected from the elements in a plastic bag or waterproof case.
Before camping, get some camping pillows. Standard pillows can get hot and sticky in humid weather. Mildew can grow in it when they absorb the moisture from the air. 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.
Create a list of items you need for your camping trip. If you have to travel a long way to reach the campsite, this is particularly vital. Make sure you have everything you need and pack a couple days before leaving.
Pay attention to where you're setting up camp. You don't want to overlook something like a snake hole, take a little precaution. If you are next to a lot of vegetation, it is a good cpai-84 fire retardant idea to wear longer sleeves to protect you from insects. A strong bug spray is also something you want on hand, especially if the vegetation is very thick.
If you are taking your children camping with you, don't forget to take walkie talkies along with you. Although each of you may own a cell phone, the area where you are camping may not have adequate coverage. It is best to invest in walkie talkies that have a range of several miles. By having walkie talkies or Family Radio Service (FRS) radio, you can remain in contact with all members of your family.
If you are camping outdoors instead of in a travel trailer or RV, it is important to dress in (or carry with you) layers of clothing. While on a camping trip, temperatures can fluctuate widely. The easiest and most effective method to control your body temperature is through adding and removing layers of clothing. Having layers of clothing also protects you from bug bites.
When you are going camping, do your best to get as early of a start as possible. It will be your job to pitch your tent so you have somewhere to rest comfortably, and that will be much harder for you to do once it starts to get dark outside.
Make sure you pack a utility knife when going camping. This knife is a must-have for campers, and you should have a spare in case something happens to the first one.
Study what kinds of wild animals can be found in your camping area. Many campers have been attacked in the outdoors because of their lack of knowledge of wild animals. Some of the animals you may encounter are whitetail deer, feral hogs, black bears, mountain lions or snakes. Use the Internet to help you research your climate and area for an accurate list!
When choosing a sleeping bag, make sure that you pick one that is meant for the season and climate in which you plan to camp. For example, if you are going camping during the summer months, you will probably want a lightweight sleeping bag, so that your body does not overheat during the night. However, if it is winter, a thicker sleeping bag will be needed so you won't freeze during the night.
As this article has helped you see, camping offers something for everyone. By using the information that you have learned here, you can plan for a trip that even those who do not like the outdoors can enjoy. Head out into the wild and enjoy what nature has provided.