How often should you waterproof a canvas tent?
It doesn't get much better than lounging around a campfire under the stars surrounded by your friends and family. Camping is among the greatest pastimes we have and for good reason. For the most pleasant and safest trip possible, however, it is best to keep some basics in mind. The piece that follows offers terrific tips on how to get ready for a camping 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.
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.
If you are going on a camping adventure, make sure you have enough time to set up camp before dark. It can be extremely difficult to set up camp in the dark and possibly unsafe. You need to be able to scout the terrain, prepare bedding, and possibly build some temporary shelter prior to the sun going down.
When you get to your campsite, take your family out on a walk. Particularly, if you have children, everyone will need a chance to stretch their legs after getting out of the car. The hike will be a good chance to get everyone excited about the trip and involved with nature.
Examine your medical insurance policy. You may need an additional policy when you are traveling on your camping trip. This can be even more important if you're leaving to another country when you are camping, such as Canada. Semper paratus doesn't just apply to the military! Be prepared!
A big concern with many people who go camping is the bugs. Do not get stuck in the middle of nowhere without having some sort of bug repellant. Check your surroundings before setting up camp for any wasp nests or ant hills that could cause you problems. Wear long pants and long-sleeved whenever possible and inspect yourself for ticks occasionally.
To start your fires at camp, use dryer lint as kindling. Start collecting the lint from your dryer's filter about a month before you go on your trip. You can hang a bag next to the dryer and just stuff your lint into it. Doing this means you can just snag your kindling on the way out the door the morning your trip starts.
If your dog will be joining you on your camping trip, keep him leashed and under constant supervision. Many people fear yurts tents dogs. You must always respect the needs of others when camping. Additionally, dogs can wreak a lot of havoc on a campsite if they are not supervised properly.
If you are camping in the summer, go swimming too. Showering is one of the comforts of home you will have to do without while camping. When swimming, you will feel refreshed and cleaner. If you use some biodegradable soap, you can get just as clean as you would at home.
Practice makes perfect when pitching a tent. Take the time to put the tent up before leaving for your trip. This allows you to build your proficiency at erecting the tent, and will also help locate any issues with the tent in case you need to exchange it for a better option.
One great tip for anyone who is planning a camping trip is to bring along plenty of 550-cord. This cord is extremely useful for many things like staking guy-lines, installing tarp and hanging bear bags. It is always better to bring to much chord than too little and find that you really need it.
Utility knives are great to have when camping. It is even better if you have more than one. Utility knives are among the most versatile pieces of equipment in a camper's arsenal so make sure you Pack an extra one in your bag just in case you lose the one you carry around.
One thing that many people forget to pack for their camping trips is the Sun-block. Even if you tan very well, there is no excuse not to protect you from the sun. In the short term, you will end up with a horrible burn, but in the long run it can give you serious problems with cancer.
Be prepared if you get lost on a camping trip. You should know how to use a map, compass, and GPS device before leaving for your trip. You should also keep these on your person during your trip. If you stray too far from your campsite, these items can help you get back quickly and safely.
Never hike alone. It may sound juvenile, but always use the buddy system. It can be easy to get lost or turned around in nature. You could slip and hurt yourself. In instances like these, it is best to have someone along. Even if you have your cellphone handy, you may find it doesn't get reception in the woods.
When it comes to tents, you should understand that bigger is not always better. Keep in mind that you are going to have to drag your tent to the campsite. To make sure that your tent is not too large for you to haul and set up, test it out at your home first.
Don't forget the sunscreen. Sun protection is important! Also, make sure that you have a sunscreen with a high SPF. You might want to choose sunscreen that includes insect repellent. You certainly don't want to be smothered in stinky, irritating chemicals while meandering about in the woods.
If you are interested in camping but are not sure if it is the right choice for you, you may want to start out with something a bit easier, like staying in a cabin or renting an RV for a weekend. If you enjoy nature with this convenience, then it may be time to up the game to a tent.
Weather can ruin a camping trip, but there is little you can do about it. Poor planning can also ruin your camping trip, but there is a great deal that you can do about that. Keep in mind all that you have read in this article so that you can be prepared for you next trip.