How long should a tent stay waterproof?
Many people are reluctant to try camping for various reasons. For some, it is the fear of the unknown. For others, the thought of sleeping outdoors is a little scary. If you've been hesitant to go camping, fear not. The article below has the tips your need to make your trip a success.
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.
You may feel that when you get to your campsite you will have enough wood to make a fire. This is not always the case because green and wet wood will not burn easily. It's always prudent to bring wood that you have gathered beforehand, and to store it in a location where it will stay dry.
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.
Do plenty of research on your camping site and ensure that it offers everything that your group will need. Consider the individual needs of each camper to ensure that everyone is taken care of. This alleviates the need to make supply runs, or worst case, have to end the trip too soon.
Any time you go camping, do not forget to bring a first-aid kit along with you. Since accidents can happen at any time, a first-aid kit is a very valuable asset to possess. Be sure to include topical creams for bug bites, sun burns and poison ivy when putting your kit together.
Camping often sounds like a great deal of fun, and it is; however it does require some special preparation. Before going camping for the first time, make sure you have done some research on tents, food and wildlife survival. It can make the difference between a great trip and a dangerous one.
If you are taking your children camping with you, don't forget to take walkie talkies along with you. Although each of you may own a cell phone, the area where you are camping may not have adequate coverage. It is best to invest in walkie talkies that have a range of several miles. By having walkie talkies or Family Radio Service (FRS) radio, you can remain in contact with all members of your family.
Purchase some special camping pillows. Regular bed pillows will feel hot and sticky during humid weather. They also take moisture from the air and that makes them grow mildew fast. Pillows designed for camping offer a coating that prevents moisture absorption.
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.
Bring some plastic totes or canisters with you when you go camping so you can store any food products you have opened. This will keep any critters from swarming around your campsite and it bell tent carpet will also keep various wildlife from being attracted to whatever it is you have in there.
Think folding chairs when packing for your camping trip. You will want folding chairs to sit in around the campfire. The best type of folding chairs are those that have a case with a strap. This type of chair makes it easy to tote when hiking or visiting other campers.
Any time you go camping, do not forget to bring a first-aid kit along with you. Since accidents can happen at any time, a first-aid kit is a very valuable asset to possess. Be sure to include topical creams for bug bites, sun burns and poison ivy when putting your kit together.
Learn how to pitch your tent ahead of time. First-time tent pitching can take time, and you may get frustrated if your first time is at the actual campsite. If you practice doing this ahead of time, it will be a breeze to do once you get to your destination.
The best tip in camping is to decide where you are going to camp and who is going to camp with you before you go. You need to pack for everyone and make sure there are facilities available. If you add any additional people at the last minute, you need to add additional food and supplies for them.
Wear layered clothing to manage your body temperature. When camping, it is a hassle to have to change clothing when temperatures suddenly rise or drop. However, if you layer your clothing, you will be able to quickly and easily peel off or put on layers of clothing as the need arises.
When siting your tent at your campsite, be sure to place a waterproof tarp on the ground before erecting your tent. In this situation, size really does matter. Use a tarp that is about 2 inches smaller than the tent floor, or cut a larger one down if need be. It should never extend beyond the edge of your tent floor. A tarp that is too large can collect water that will be channeled right back into your tent.
Before going camping, make sure you know how to read your map or how to use your compass. Even if you are returning to a campsite you know well, the area could have changed and you could become lost. Learning how to actually use certain items will help you avoid getting lost.
When you're getting a survival kit together for camping, it's recommended to bring waterproof matches. Always store your matches in a container or packaging that is airtight. Even normal matches can be waterproofed with nail polish or paraffin wax. A great container for storage is a film canister. A plastic medicine bottle also works.
Your trip can be a great one if you want it to be. Camping can also teach you a lot about yourself. Use the tips in this article to prepare yourself for a fun, exciting camping experience that you can remember for years to come.