With the winter blues on their way out, you can start looking forward to getting back outdoors for the summer! Now is the time to get amongst nature and trek out beneath the stars instead of the city lights. Make time to plan for the ultimate camping trip with so many amazing locations to choose from. Whether your style is old school camping or using the latest technology and devices, these tips will help everyone from the novice through to the most experienced camper:
1) Insect Repellant
Keep those pesky mozzies and bugs at bay with insect repellant- you don’t want your skin to be a feast for midgies or come home covered in red spots and nasty bites. It’s an obvious essential which is frequently forgotten.
2) The Right Spot
Once you’ve arrived at your location, there’s a few factors to consider before you just set up camp. Make sure to choose flat ground that won’t turn muddy if it rains, find a spot that will shelter you from harsh winds and avoid camping near any dead trees to avoid falling branches.
3) Rug Up
Bring an old rug along and use it to line the base of your tent. It helps to manage incoming dirt and adds a bit of comfort which feels great at bedtime.
4) Fire Starter
Cotton balls with a smear of petroleum jelly make great fire starters. Store them in plastic resealable bags for easy access and minimized mess. Cardboard toilet paper rolls filled with lint also work well if you forget to purchase fire lighter cubes at the store.
5) Camp Menu
Canned items are still a win during any camping trip. Modify recipes when possible to allow for a one pot preparation- no one likes clean up duty. You can make meal time easier by prepping ingredients at home. Chop, dice, measure and mix what you can in the comfort of your own home kitchen, breaking meals down into individual servings.
While camping is a great experience and a lot of fun, don’t forget to be mindful of the environment and wildlife. Make sure you observe all signs and are aware of the park rules. Put out all fires properly with sand before bed and avoid feeding the animals. Happy camping!