Can you camp in 50 mph winds?
So, you're going camping and you are wondering where to start. Camping is a rather simple pleasure, but it's vital that you make yourself aware of some basic things when it comes to camping. This article will help educate you on some of the things you need to know for your trip.
To increase your sleeping experience while camping, bring a pad along that you can place under your sleeping bag. This pad acts as a barrier between you and the hard ground where twigs and tree knots may cause strange sleeping conditions. If a pad isn't handy, bring a few extra blankets that you can fold over on themselves to create some cushion.
Let all the members of your family have a hand in picking your campsite. Talk about which state to go to. The United States offers so many choices that choosing one can be hard! If necessary, select a few locations yourself, then let the family decide among your choices.
Navigation is the key when it comes to camping. It is important to know where you are, and how to get back to civilization if you become lost. Always bring a map of the area, and a compass to help you. You can also use an outdoor GPS that will give you navigation information, as well as additional information such as altitude.
Know what is available in the area around your campsite. You may get lucky and have beautiful weather the entire time. However, you may also face inclement weather, too. Have a backup plan in case you need a diversion. This is particularly crucial if you have kids, but adults need a little entertainment as well!
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.
Be prepared to handle any emergency that may arise and have a plan in place. This emergency kit changes depending on the place you go camping, but you have to be certain it has the basic tools. Take things for specific creatures as well, like antivenom.
It is important to have a flashlight when you camp, but make sure the batteries are fully charged. One way to be sure the batteries don't accidentally drain on the journey is to put them into the flashlight backwards. That way if the switch is accidentally engaged, they stay charged. Plus, you know where the batteries are.
Clean up thoroughly when leaving a campsite. Try your best not to leave any trace of you at the campsite you stayed in. This is important, not just in terms of being considerate of glamping rental other people. There are animals and insects that continue to live in the woods after you have left, so think of them as well.
If you have never been camping before, then be sure to bring extra of everything. This is most important for things like food and drinks. Since you are inexperienced you may underestimate how much food you actually need. Remember, you will probably be very active, and therefore need more food than normal.
Clean up thoroughly when leaving a campsite. Try your best not to leave any trace of you at the campsite you stayed in. This is important, not just in terms of being considerate of other people. There are animals and insects that continue to live in the woods after you have left, so think of them as well.
Bring everything that you will need before starting out on your camping trip. It wouldn't be good if you forgot something you really need like your sleeping bag or a tent. Verify all the things that you need or should take and write out a list of all of them. Then, check your final packing according to the list to be sure.
If you're having trouble keeping warm at night, wear a hat. It can get cold out in nature. As cold as it gets, however, it can be quite stifling to keep your head tucked inside your sleeping bag at all times. Pack a warm woolen hat to wear while you sleep.
Zip-lock bags can be very handy in a camper's tool chest. Don't worry about hauling mixing bowls in your gear. A gallon size zip-lock bag is great for mixing foods together and is much easier to carry in your pack. Just secure the top of the bag very carefully, then squeeze, knead or shake the ingredients together. Then discard for super-easy cleanup too!
It is important that you dress appropriately for the outdoors when you go on a camping trip. Dressing in layers is the key! This proves perfect when temperatures increase in the summertime, or cool down in the wintertime. Don't forget to pack some rain gear in case the conditions turn wet.
Practice tying different kinds of knots, building fires and sharpening knives before you head out for your camping adventure. Knowing how to do these essential things ahead of time will save you from having to learn them on-site. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy yourself during your camping trip.
You can use a used shower curtain as an under-tent tarp. You could also put it down in the area in which you are going to wash your dishes or prepare your food. Whenever you replace a shower curtain, simply launder the old one, and stow it away with your camping gear for your next outdoor adventure.
An essential element of your camping gear is a first aid kit. The kit should contain anything that you will need in case of an accident. Your personal first aid kit needs to contain pain reliever, bandages, splinting materials, snake bite treatments and wound dressings. You must be prepared for any type of accident or illness that could occur while camping.
Many people will tell you that they have fond memories of camping. The information provided here should help make it so that you have a memorable trip as well, as long as you keep the information in mind. You should know be ready to field any curve balls that come your way!