How do you maintain a canvas tent?
Camping is getting a lot of positive response from people in the media lately, especially in reality-based programming. As a result, this type of vacation is becoming more popular. If you are one of these people and you want some tips and strategies on how to have a fun and safe camping adventure, continue reading for some great advice.
Navigation is the key when it comes to camping. It is important to know where you are, and how to get back to civilization if you become lost. Always bring a map of the area, and a compass to help you. You can also use an outdoor GPS that will give you navigation information, as well as additional information such as altitude.
Particularly, if you have children, you need to consider what to do if you have inclement weather one day. Gather together a few supplies to have on hand in case you need to stay in your tent. Bring a board game, play doh and art supplies. Don't let your family members touch these items until it rains so that they don't lose their appeal.
Before you start out on that relaxing camping trip, it is essential for your safety to make sure to let someone know you are going. Give a friend or neighbor the name of the campsite if you are using one. If you are headed out on a less structured trip, give your contact a general idea of where you are headed and a timeline for your return. If something goes wrong, there will be someone to know where to look for you.
If you are going camping with your pets or children, you need to take a few extra precautions. Try to teach your kids the basics of camping safety. They need to know what to do if they get lost and should each have a small survival kit. Make sure you have leashes for any pets and make sure they are current with all vaccinations.
Before you bring your dog along for a camping trip, get him used to the idea with a little practice run in the back yard. Pitch the tent in an already familiar area, and let him sleep or play in it for a while. Bringing a dog can really add to the fun of camping, so long as the animal has been adequately prepared for the event.
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.
Kids like camping, but they need structured activities. If you are camping in the deep woods, far from anything familiar, kids can become bored. They probably aren't used to fishing or campfires. Teach them these things ahead of time to ensure a great trip.
As a courtesy to other campers, don't leave your lighting on overnight, if you are close to others. Pack a timer that you can attach to your lights that will automatically shut them off after a certain time. Leaving lights on overnight is a popular complaint among most American campers!
Even camping purists may find that having a small luxury item is a good thing. Take something like creamer for your coffee or a chocolate candy bar. A few small indulgences can make you incredibly happy.
If you pet is accompanying you on your camping trip, then be sure to keep them leashed and under control at all times. Not all people are dog lovers, and some are extremely terrified of dogs. You should keep that in mind while you are on your camping trip. Your dog might even damage someone else's property if not properly supervised.
If you go out camping with kids, have a photo of them on hand. While it is a worst case scenario, a child can easily be separated from the rest of the party, and a picture will make it easier to locate them. Be sure to have a photo for an emergency, even more so if you're camping far away from your home.
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.
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.
Wrap up your fishing gear, like line and lures, in plain old aluminum foil! This will keep everything from tangling up and if you do it properly, water proofed as well. Foil will also prevent rust from ruining your valuable fishing gear, so make it part of your camping trip every time.
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.
If you are camping with young children, make sure you plan activities for them and bring them toys to play with. You may be fine with a book on the picnic blanket, but children need more to keep them occupied. Don't forget to keep travel games in mind, also.
Novice campers often set up their tent near bathrooms, but this is an error. They do this in the belief that it will be very convenient, but quickly learn the truth. Campground bathrooms attract high foot traffic and create bright light during the night. Therefore, camping is not as comfortable and convenient as expected.
If you are camping in the mountains or higher elevation, be prepared for cold temperatures. Even in the summer, people just assume that mountains are as warm as it is on flat land; this is simply not true. Have ample blankets with you and be sure to bring proper clothing.
As you can see from the article above, there are many helpful tips that can help you enjoy your camping trip more. Camping is not intended to be an intense best porta potty for camping event, but there is a bit of know-how required to make it stress free. Utilize the information you have learned in this article to ensure a fun, safe camping trip.