Can you live in a canvas tent?
To some people the thought of camping inspires thoughts of bugs, inclement weather, and burned hot dogs. Your camping trip doesn't have to be a letdown. It can mean great food, good times and no bugs if preparations are made. Keep reading for some great ideas to make your trip a pleasurable one.
Pick out your sleeping bag according to what season it is. You don't want to sweat all night because you brought a sleeping bag that is suitable for winter in the middle of the summer. If you use a lightweight sleeping bag during the winter, you can spend your night shivering if it's cold outside. In the worst case, you could be putting yourself at risk of getting frostbite or even worse.
If you are going backcountry camping, you should probably carry a snake bite kit in your gear. The best snake bite kits are the ones that use suction. Some kits have scalpels and blood flow constrictors in them. Scalpels can actually cut the poison into the blood stream faster, and constrictors can be deadly if not used properly.
When going camping you need to ensure that the tent you build can easily hold you and anybody else that comes along. This will ensure you are able to comfortably move around without disturbing people you are sharing your tent with.
When traveling to your camping destination, plan on stopping and having a meal when you're near the campground, but before you actually arrive. Being well fed before arriving will ease frustrations if the campground is full, or if it takes longer to get your gear set up. Use this break to discuss your plans and to remind everyone of how to remain safe!
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.
Save space in your bag by leaving mixing spoons and containers behind, and instead just bring plastic zip-lock bags. Place the foods or liquids that you want to mix in the bag, and ensure that the zipper is well closed before mixing. Not only do the bags take up considerably less space than bowls and spoons, but they're much more lightweight as well!
Let people know where your group is headed. Just in case anything happens to any of you, you want to know that there are people who know where you are at. This is a good precautionary measure to take if something were to happen to your camping group, because help will be on the way soon.
Duct tape can be a camper's very best friend. When disaster strikes on a camping trip, a roll of heavy-duty duct tape will usually save the day. If the tent fabric needs patching in the rain, duct tape will hold back the water. When tent poles need reinforcing, the duct tape will provide support. Do you have holes in your tennis shoes? Duct tape right over it. Whatever the mishap, a roll of duct tape is sure to help!
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.
Make sure that you know how to get a campfire burning before you head out living in a bell tent into the woods. If you have difficulties getting a fire started, look for fire starting supplies to take with you. These supplies make it easy for just about anyone to start a fire on the spot.
If you're bringing your dog along for the camping trip, make sure it's wearing its tags. Losing track of a pet can be heartbreaking. Make sure your dog is wearing its dog license and an ID with contact information before you leave on your trip. Neglecting to do so can have tragic consequences.
On your next fishing trip, go fishing. Fishing is a great way to enjoy yourself while you're out in nature, but it also helps you pack more lightly because you catch your food on the trip instead of having to bring it with you. Learn to de-bone a fish before leaving home and you'll have easy fish dinners on your camping trip.
Pack wisely and carefully. Create a list of necessary supplies and check each one off as they are packed. This tip is always important, but especially so if your camping trip will take you to a remote area that does not provide access to food, shelter or emergency supplies.
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.
Keep dry, fresh, and well-ventilated inside the confines of your tent. If your tent is completed sealed, you will find that condensation will accumulate on the sides of the tent from breathing and perspiration. This sometimes causes campers to wake from a deep sleep feeling wet. In a tent, you can crack doors, windows or vents to help you avoid buildup of moisture and give yourself a crossbreeze.
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.
Take a lot of water for everyone to drink for your trip. This will make sure that everyone is hydrated properly throughout the trip, and that you all have access to clean drinking water on your trip. This is always a good idea because you don't want to dehydrate while you're out camping.
In order to recreate your fond memories of camping trips taken as a child, you need knowledge and passion. Let this article help you stir your imagination and spark your mind so that you can have a truly memorable camping experience and learn to love it all over again.