How do you keep a tent warm in the winter?
Camping is a popular type of vacation because it is so simple to pick up and go without too much hassle at any given time. Whether you're going near or far for your camping trip, you should read up a little to be aware of some important camping-related advice that everyone should know about.
Pick a type of sleeping bag that happens to be appropriate for the season. If you use a heavy winter sleeping bag in summer, this can be stifling and uncomfortable. If you are going to bring a light bag in the winter, you may end up freezing and having a miserable time. You could even develop hypothermia or frostbite if it's very cold.
Choose a sleeping bag that is seasonally appropriate. Bringing a sub-zero type of sleeping bag to use on a trip in the summer will make you sweat the entire night. The opposite is true as well, a summer bag won't keep you warm in the winter. You may even develop hypothermia.
Pack a few shovels if there are children with you on your trip. Kids love nothing better than digging in the dirt, and having the right accessories is crucial. If you have room, bring a bucket too. The children will happily entertain themselves in the dirt while you unpack, set up camp and do everything that you need to do.
Make sure you have a first aid kit with you. As an alternative, you could pack some supplies in a plastic bag. While hopefully your trip will be free of injuries, you never know. It is best to be prepared so that you can handle anything that happens in the best way possible.
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.
Before going camping, take a course in first aid, especially if you plan to bring children with you. If an accident occurs, you'll need to know what you need to better the situation until you can receive medical attention. Also remember to research other dangers near your camping location. Be aware of the potential for poisonous snakes, wild animals and other possible wildlife dangers.
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.
Make sure you are aware of what hospitals are close to your campsite and how to get to them. While you don't want to think about anything bad happening on your trip, it is a possibility. Certain injuries will necessitate a visit to the doctor, so it is best to know where to go before something happens, and you are in panic mode.
If you are going camping, whether with others or alone, a survival kit is essential. You may need different supplies, depending on where you will be, but there are certain things that you should always have. Species specific antivenom should be packed to protect against animal bites.
Make sure you observe the campground rules and regulations. One of the biggest concerns is trash and also noisiness within a campsite. People often think that people can't hear them, but noise travels far in a campsite. It is extremely difficult to have any privacy, especially when people are supposed to be observing quiet hours.
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 barebones flashlight 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.
Remember, when you are camping you will not have access to many kitchen luxuries. At most, you will have a can opener as well as a basic burner. This means canned foods make a great meal, but even better are things that need very little preparation, like peanut butter sandwiches.
When you are packing your clothing for a camping trip, remember that it is best to dress in layers. This way, you can add or remove clothing to make you more comfortable. Take along a rain coat that you can put on top of every other layer to keep you dry if it rains.
Take along a battery operated radio when camping. A radio will keep you up-to-date on any late-breaking news and weather reports. A radio will also give you entertainment during those quiet evenings sitting around the campfire. Or if you prefer, pack a guitar for you and your campers' enjoyment.
When you're finished camping and ready to go home, you should pick up after yourself. Keeping nature clean and preserved can allow future campers to enjoy it too. Before you leave, clean up any messes, you've made at your site and try your best to leave nature as you originally found it.
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 might silly, but remember to take toilet paper along when you go camping. If your campsite lacks toilet facilities, you will need to use the woods. Leaves can be dangerous alternatives to toilet paper, so don't forget it.
As mentioned previously, it's important to have a little knowledge about camping. But you can now use the advice shared here with you to ensure that you are ready for any curve balls during your trip. Print out this information if you need to, and refer to it often. Have a great trip!