Do you need a tarp for a tent?
One of the most popular recreational activities in the world is camping. There is nothing quite like heading out into the great outdoors to really feel connected to nature. If you are thinking about going camping, use the following advice to make your next camping trip more fun and enjoyable.
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.
Before you head out on your long-awaited camping trip, make sure the area where you plan to camp doesn't require a camping permit. If you happen to camp in a place that does require one and you didn't get one, then you could be facing quite a hefty ticket or fine from a local forest ranger.
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.
At night, create "bear bags." Tie a rope around the bags with your food and your trash. Then, find a tree and toss bags over a branch, raising until they are at least seven or eight feet off the ground. Tie the rope around the tree so it is secure. This way, bears and other animals will not be able to get into your food and trash during the night.
Prior to camping in a brand new area, you must understand its dangers. You should be aware of any venomous insects or snakes, dangerous weather or cliffs in the area. Each camping spot is unique and can be dangerous in its own way.
Make a list of things you need to take with you before you go camping. You may think you are great at packing, but little else is worse than being out in the middle of the woods and realizing you forgot your allergy medication. Sit down and create a comprehensive list of everything you might need during the week before your camping trip.
Even the most natural experience can allow for one nice luxury from home. Carry something small and convenient, such as a chocolate bar or some coffee creamer. Small things like this can increase your enjoyment of the trip.
Unless you are going to be spending a significant amount of time camping, buying expensive sleeping bags is really unnecessary. Even if your old and musty sleeping bag is rated for below freezing temperatures, it is excellent padding for the ground even when it is hot outside and you will feel comfortable sleeping on it.
Pack your camping supplies in advance of your trip. You can not afford to forget an important item like your sleeping bag or your tent. Make sure you check for the items you need, and create a list before leaving to be certain you have everything you want.
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.
Be sure to choose the right site for your camping experience. The camping site can make or break your trip. Try to choose a site that is not too far away from help should you need it. Choose a site that is flat and somewhat apart from trees. You want a location that is far from critters and close to aid.
Do not forget your cooking supplies. You will need pots, pans, utensils and dishes to best camping portable toilet cook on and eat with. Make sure that you double-check to be sure that you have packed these supplies before you leave the house. You do not want to get all set up and ready to cook your first meal and find that you have left your pot at home.
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!
Many people associate camping with misery; bug bites, sunburns and poor food. While this can be a reality, it can also be avoided by preparing about one week ahead of time. Try to think of all the possible situations that could go wrong, and find a product to help you avoid that situation.
Don't let your kids out of your sight. It is easy for children to get lost, and cars often come and go. It can take just one second for a child to get into danger, so supervise them at all times to be safe.
You must bring at least one first aid kit. The kit has to have in it everything you need in an emergency situation. The best way to ensure that you are prepared is to bring along both a first aid kit and a snake bite kit to ensure that you are prepared for any injury. It is important to be as safe as possible when camping, but unfortunately, no matter how careful you are, accidents do happen on occasion, so you must be properly prepared.
Keep safety in mind on your camping trip. Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit along with the traditional bandaging supplies and antibiotic ointment. But throw into the mix some antihistamine for bug bites and bee stings, pain reliever, hand sanitizer and any other items that could come in handy in the outdoors.
Pack ready to eat foods in your camping gear, like trail mix and jerky. These little nutritious snacks can come in handy after a long day. Even if you don't eat them, these are non-perishable snacks that have a long shelf life.
There's no need for your trip to be a bummer because you were not prepared for some of the most basic things that come with camping. Thanks to this article you be a camping pro! Have a great time outdoors and surprise everyone with all your new knowledge while on your trip.