A lot of people still think that all they need to do when planning a camping trip is find a good campsite and prepare all their gear. Don’t get me wrong; this is very important. But that’s not all there is to do when you’re making preparations for camping. As a matter of fact, I personally think that that’s only about half of it. The other half involves using a little bit of smarts and a lot of common sense. A lot of times, campers tend to find themselves in situations which could have been avoided if only they were paying attention.
When looking for a good campground, always keep in mind that not all campgrounds are appropriate for every camper. If you’re new to camping, for example, it’s always a good decision to pick a public camping spot that’s close to your home. Avoid going to far-off locations when you’re just starting out. Remember also that public campgrounds are run by a government agency; therefore regulations and services tend to be consistent and reliable. Privately-run camping sites, on the other hand, usually vary in their services, amenities, and policies. It’s also never a good idea to set up camp in an RV park when you’re in a tent. The noise from all the air-conditioning and power generators will keep most campers up during the night when they’re supposed to be sleeping.
Some people place reservations for a campground which they have never been to before. How can you be sure that it’s what you really want? Reservations can get lost, camping grounds can fill up, and you may find yourselves traveling over 1,000 miles to some place where you have no campsite. Be sure to get a confirmation by phone or email, and get all essential information about the campground, such as refund policies, check-in times, and rules for visitors.
When you arrive at the campground, the next important thing is to choose your campsite. As with real estate, it’s all about location. As much as possible, make sure that you pick one near the showers, toilets, lakes, ponds, or rivers, and playgrounds, if any. Some people even look for spots near garbage disposal areas, but I shall leave that option to your own preference. Some people like to be near certain areas, while others prefer to be as far away as possible. Now, when pitching your tent, the rule is to find a level spot that is high off the ground. This way any water from rains will drain away from your tent. Select a spot that is also far away from campfires or barbecue areas, and don’t aim your tent door to the East, unless you want to wake up with the sun shining in your face.
Always cook your food outdoors. Campgrounds usually have designated areas for this, so be sure you use them. As for eating, you can eat just about anywhere you like, except inside your tent. Why? The crumbs that will certainly fall from your plate will attract critters, and they will put holes in your tent just to get to the food. Speaking of which, I recommend storing all your food in tightly-closed containers, and if possible, just place them in your car’s trunk, rather than inside your tent. If you have a cooler and you want it close, place something heavy on top of the lid.
Mind the wildlife. You are temporarily staying at a place where bugs, birds, and animals have made it their home. Protect yourself by using bug repellents, and if you want to observe wildlife, do it from a safe distance. If you are in the woods, it’s nice to check yourself and your gear every now and then for ticks. And oh, you may find it very interesting to feed animals, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Lots of campers in the past have tried doing this, only to find the wildlife returning to their tent every so often to get fed and make a nuisance of themselves later on.
When it’s time to go, be sure to pack your equipment dry. Pick up all debris and trash scattered around your campsite and dispose of it properly. Always inform the campground attendant that you’re leaving and that your campsite is available, as a courtesy to him and to other campers who may be just arriving.
Survival Essentials
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Knives And Survival Knives
The knife has come to symbolize to the modern men the essence of survival and the ability to provide all that is needed for survival with one simple and lethal tool. A good knife is indeed better than most material things, it can provide protection and the ability to hunt and prepare food, it can also help in building a shelter and creating small objects that are vital for survival.
A few generations ago, maybe even less than a hundred years ago, men would not leave their house without a proper knife, it was only common sense to take a knife with you wherever you went, you never knew into what situations you will run into, if you will get lost and will need to survive for a couple of days in the wild or if you will be surprised by some enemy or thief and will need to protect yourself.
For those of us that know knives it is a simple fact that no one knife can have all the features in it, every knife has its advantages and anyone using a knife will have to make his own decision as to what kind of things are important for him to have on his knife. It is not only the extra features of the knife that matter, it is also the way the knife itself is crafted and what it is made off.
Today most people are looking for a knife to serve them when they are away in natural for a few days, or sometimes a few weeks, they need something that is very basic and that will provide them with the safety that it could potentially help them in case something goes wrong.
Not long ago I read in the paper that a diver had to use his knife to protect himself against a shark, he did not stab the shark as it was trying to attack him, but simply hit the shark on his nose with the blunt side of the knife, this did the job and the shark run away, even though he didn’t use his knife as it was planned to be used, this diver had the right instinct, and he went for his knife.
In any case, when you are out camping, hiking, fishing or diving you will probably consider buying yourself a knife, and you should think about what you need before you even set foot in the shop. Try and think of the environments you are going to be in, and your needs, sometimes someone does need to hunt with his knife, but does not need to prepared the food from the hunted animal, in some cases you will be walking through a jungle and you might want to use the knife to carve your way out of some thick bushes.
If you do your research and spend some time thinking of what you need you will have a better starting point, try and use the internet for information about different kinds of knives, I am sure you will be surprised from the wide verity of products out on the market. Happy hunting.
A few generations ago, maybe even less than a hundred years ago, men would not leave their house without a proper knife, it was only common sense to take a knife with you wherever you went, you never knew into what situations you will run into, if you will get lost and will need to survive for a couple of days in the wild or if you will be surprised by some enemy or thief and will need to protect yourself.
For those of us that know knives it is a simple fact that no one knife can have all the features in it, every knife has its advantages and anyone using a knife will have to make his own decision as to what kind of things are important for him to have on his knife. It is not only the extra features of the knife that matter, it is also the way the knife itself is crafted and what it is made off.
Today most people are looking for a knife to serve them when they are away in natural for a few days, or sometimes a few weeks, they need something that is very basic and that will provide them with the safety that it could potentially help them in case something goes wrong.
Not long ago I read in the paper that a diver had to use his knife to protect himself against a shark, he did not stab the shark as it was trying to attack him, but simply hit the shark on his nose with the blunt side of the knife, this did the job and the shark run away, even though he didn’t use his knife as it was planned to be used, this diver had the right instinct, and he went for his knife.
In any case, when you are out camping, hiking, fishing or diving you will probably consider buying yourself a knife, and you should think about what you need before you even set foot in the shop. Try and think of the environments you are going to be in, and your needs, sometimes someone does need to hunt with his knife, but does not need to prepared the food from the hunted animal, in some cases you will be walking through a jungle and you might want to use the knife to carve your way out of some thick bushes.
If you do your research and spend some time thinking of what you need you will have a better starting point, try and use the internet for information about different kinds of knives, I am sure you will be surprised from the wide verity of products out on the market. Happy hunting.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Buy Camping Equipment That Goes Beyond The Basics
If you love camping, then you can purchase your camping equipment that will take you from a regular camper to a true camping fanatic. And if you are not yet a camping enthusiast because you don’t think you can find the comforts of home out at the campsite, then you may just not be aware of all of the things you can buy – camping equipment products available that can bring the creature comforts with you out on the road.
Like any other hobby, camping has benefited by the technological advances of the last few decades. You will find advanced types of products to buy – camping equipment in every type of gear that you might want. First, there’s apparel that is specifically designed for camping or other forms of outdoor activities that gives you a number of options in limited numbers of garments. Pants with zip off legs, shirts with zip off sleeves, jackets with a number of layers and materials as well as undergarments that keep you dry and warm have all been developed that will give you lots of choices without taking up much space in your backpack. Plus, good, sturdy camping shoes with flexible soles make hiking more pleasant – especially if you’ve got heated socks to keep your toes warm.
When it comes to backpacks, a staple of camping equipment, there are now a number of ergonomically designed models that are scientifically designed to distribute the weight of a pack across the body in the most efficient and least burdensome way, meaning you can carry more with less strain on your back. There are those made for women, for men and even for children, and many have convertible or removable compartments so that you can carry only what you need when you need it. Plus, there are weatherproof models so that your belongings and other items you buy (camping equipment is expensive) don’t have to be stashed in your tent to stay safe.
When you’re tired of hiking and want to set that backpack down for dinner, you won’t necessarily need a fire to cook those meals. There are personal or miniature stoves that boil water or can cook entire meals with an easily carried fuel canister. Water filter systems mean that you can be absolutely certain of water being potable, no matter where you are camping.
For safety and navigation, technology has made a number of differences. Depending on where you are camping, you might have internet or cell phone access available. But if not, buy camping equipment available that will still keep you connected to the world – and particularly the weather. There are radios that can pick up stations for miles around, safety lights that never run out of batteries and can be seen from miles away, and portable GPS systems mean that you’ll never lose your way again.
Like any other hobby, camping has benefited by the technological advances of the last few decades. You will find advanced types of products to buy – camping equipment in every type of gear that you might want. First, there’s apparel that is specifically designed for camping or other forms of outdoor activities that gives you a number of options in limited numbers of garments. Pants with zip off legs, shirts with zip off sleeves, jackets with a number of layers and materials as well as undergarments that keep you dry and warm have all been developed that will give you lots of choices without taking up much space in your backpack. Plus, good, sturdy camping shoes with flexible soles make hiking more pleasant – especially if you’ve got heated socks to keep your toes warm.
When it comes to backpacks, a staple of camping equipment, there are now a number of ergonomically designed models that are scientifically designed to distribute the weight of a pack across the body in the most efficient and least burdensome way, meaning you can carry more with less strain on your back. There are those made for women, for men and even for children, and many have convertible or removable compartments so that you can carry only what you need when you need it. Plus, there are weatherproof models so that your belongings and other items you buy (camping equipment is expensive) don’t have to be stashed in your tent to stay safe.
When you’re tired of hiking and want to set that backpack down for dinner, you won’t necessarily need a fire to cook those meals. There are personal or miniature stoves that boil water or can cook entire meals with an easily carried fuel canister. Water filter systems mean that you can be absolutely certain of water being potable, no matter where you are camping.
For safety and navigation, technology has made a number of differences. Depending on where you are camping, you might have internet or cell phone access available. But if not, buy camping equipment available that will still keep you connected to the world – and particularly the weather. There are radios that can pick up stations for miles around, safety lights that never run out of batteries and can be seen from miles away, and portable GPS systems mean that you’ll never lose your way again.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Unique Camping Gear
When searching for the right gear for your camping trip, you may happen upon some very unique camping gear items. Depending on what type of camping you plan on doing, if it be in the mountains, in the desert, or along the coast, you may end up needing these special and unique camping gear items.
There are several sites online that specialize in selling unique camping gear. Items such as a snake bite kit, camouflaged tent and clothing, or even night vision goggles. Some of these items may seem unnecessary, however if you plan on a trip in the desert, a snake bite kit may become a life saving device, or if you’re going to be camping while out hunting the camouflaged tent and clothing along with night vision goggles may be necessary items. A whistle could also be considered a unique item, as it is not something you would typically think of bringing, but it just may come in very helpful in a time of need. When purchasing unique items, and deciding on what you will need, it all depends on the location you plan on camping in, and what activities you plan on doing while you are out camping.
There are also several different, and innovative, tents that are being developed and are available on the market. One of these many tents is a glow in the dark tent. This type of tent may come in handy when you head out for the bathroom at night and have a hard time finding your way back to your tent. The company that makes the tent also claims that the glow keeps away any bugs and insects. The same company that makes the glow in the dark tent also makes polka dot tents for those who wish to have a very fashionable and unique tent. Other companies are starting to make tents that are accessible for those with disabilities. Because it can sometimes be difficult for someone on a wheelchair to enjoy camping with the rest of the family, there are companies who make unique camping gear with this in mind.
There is a range of unique camping gear available that will suit any unique camping trip. These unique items are not only useful to many, but also rather enjoyable as it is something new and different. Although to some, these items may seem a bit foolish or useless, it will almost always turn out to be an extremely useful item and possibly a life saving device as well. However, these items may be more expensive than ordinary camping gear because of its uniqueness, so keep that in mind when deciding on what gear is necessary and what items you are purchasing only because its different and new.
There are several sites online that specialize in selling unique camping gear. Items such as a snake bite kit, camouflaged tent and clothing, or even night vision goggles. Some of these items may seem unnecessary, however if you plan on a trip in the desert, a snake bite kit may become a life saving device, or if you’re going to be camping while out hunting the camouflaged tent and clothing along with night vision goggles may be necessary items. A whistle could also be considered a unique item, as it is not something you would typically think of bringing, but it just may come in very helpful in a time of need. When purchasing unique items, and deciding on what you will need, it all depends on the location you plan on camping in, and what activities you plan on doing while you are out camping.
There are also several different, and innovative, tents that are being developed and are available on the market. One of these many tents is a glow in the dark tent. This type of tent may come in handy when you head out for the bathroom at night and have a hard time finding your way back to your tent. The company that makes the tent also claims that the glow keeps away any bugs and insects. The same company that makes the glow in the dark tent also makes polka dot tents for those who wish to have a very fashionable and unique tent. Other companies are starting to make tents that are accessible for those with disabilities. Because it can sometimes be difficult for someone on a wheelchair to enjoy camping with the rest of the family, there are companies who make unique camping gear with this in mind.
There is a range of unique camping gear available that will suit any unique camping trip. These unique items are not only useful to many, but also rather enjoyable as it is something new and different. Although to some, these items may seem a bit foolish or useless, it will almost always turn out to be an extremely useful item and possibly a life saving device as well. However, these items may be more expensive than ordinary camping gear because of its uniqueness, so keep that in mind when deciding on what gear is necessary and what items you are purchasing only because its different and new.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
What You Need To Know About Camping Trailers
A great alternative to “roughing it” while camping is to rent or purchase one of the many models of camping trailers available on the market. Camping trailers can range from a hard-top tent trailer that requires some set-up and will easily pull behind even a small sized car through to a larger, all-in-one unit that is literally a home away from home on wheels. Each type of camping trailer has pros and cons to ownership, but one of the largest factors with any type of trailer is the cost.
The pop-up or fold down tent trailer is a less expensive option for campers that will be camping in established campgrounds or at least in areas where there is access by road. These camping trailers have an aluminum and steel or fiberglass and steel bottom with a lid or top that securely fastens while the trailer is being stored or moved. The trailer lid or top is raised through a crank mechanism to its full height of about eight feet over the bed area of the trailer. There are two or three bunks or sleeping platforms that then fold out, giving the appearance of a tent. These areas are usually large enough to comfortably hold two adults each and are roughly the size of a very large double bed. There may also be extensions that can be used to provide even more sleeping and relaxing space.
Most models of the camping trailer will also include permanent storage cupboards within the bed area. These are ideal for storing utensils, supplies and even clothing. In many models, small fridges and freezers, sinks, countertops and even cooking surfaces are built in to provide all the comfort of home. The central area has a collapsible table and a bench-like arrangement providing lots of seating. The newer models of tent trailers may also be wired for electricity and can easily be hooked to a generator for the full conveniences of home.
The more deluxe versions of a camping trailer are the fifth-wheel trailer and the travel trailer. These are completely rigid body trailers that are very comparable to a small apartment that is rectangular in shape and contains all the comforts of home. Most fifth-wheel and travel-camping trailers have showers, indoor toilet facilities, separate sleeping areas and even a full, apartment sized kitchen area. Many of these trailers have a generator in the design of the unit and there may even be options for television sets, entertainment units and even wireless internet connections.
Choosing the right camping trailer does require some thought and consideration, as well as some attention to your budget and spending requirements. Both types of trailers are relatively durable and will last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Storage for the smaller tent style camping trailers is easier for most people than trying to store the large fifth-wheel trailers and travel trailers. Spend some time looking around or even consider renting some different camping trailers to try out before you decide on the model and brand that is right for you and your family.
The pop-up or fold down tent trailer is a less expensive option for campers that will be camping in established campgrounds or at least in areas where there is access by road. These camping trailers have an aluminum and steel or fiberglass and steel bottom with a lid or top that securely fastens while the trailer is being stored or moved. The trailer lid or top is raised through a crank mechanism to its full height of about eight feet over the bed area of the trailer. There are two or three bunks or sleeping platforms that then fold out, giving the appearance of a tent. These areas are usually large enough to comfortably hold two adults each and are roughly the size of a very large double bed. There may also be extensions that can be used to provide even more sleeping and relaxing space.
Most models of the camping trailer will also include permanent storage cupboards within the bed area. These are ideal for storing utensils, supplies and even clothing. In many models, small fridges and freezers, sinks, countertops and even cooking surfaces are built in to provide all the comfort of home. The central area has a collapsible table and a bench-like arrangement providing lots of seating. The newer models of tent trailers may also be wired for electricity and can easily be hooked to a generator for the full conveniences of home.
The more deluxe versions of a camping trailer are the fifth-wheel trailer and the travel trailer. These are completely rigid body trailers that are very comparable to a small apartment that is rectangular in shape and contains all the comforts of home. Most fifth-wheel and travel-camping trailers have showers, indoor toilet facilities, separate sleeping areas and even a full, apartment sized kitchen area. Many of these trailers have a generator in the design of the unit and there may even be options for television sets, entertainment units and even wireless internet connections.
Choosing the right camping trailer does require some thought and consideration, as well as some attention to your budget and spending requirements. Both types of trailers are relatively durable and will last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Storage for the smaller tent style camping trailers is easier for most people than trying to store the large fifth-wheel trailers and travel trailers. Spend some time looking around or even consider renting some different camping trailers to try out before you decide on the model and brand that is right for you and your family.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Camping Cook Ware
To prepare campsite meals and feed yourself or family during your camping trip, at least some camping cook ware will be needed. Camping cook ware that is small in size and portable will make your camp cooking and packing for your trip less complicated. Backpackers who are camping will especially appreciate compact, portable camping cook ware. Camping cook ware can range from a simple single pot to a number of skillets and pots in different sizes that nest into each other for easy storage and transportation.
A main choice you will have when shopping for camping cook ware is the type of cook ware material. Aluminum, cast iron, titanium, and stainless steel are all available and each has their own merits. Aluminum, titanium and stainless steel cook ware sets will be lighter and easier to tote around. Aluminum camping cook ware sets may come in non-stick varieties, which will be slightly more expensive. Metal cook ware sets will all be prone to rusting, so be careful that your cooking pans are dry before you store them. Cast iron cook ware sets are especially durable, and can last you a lifetime with proper care. Because they are so sturdy, cast iron cook ware sets will be much heavier and harder to transport than cook ware sets made out of other materials.
Besides pots and pans, utensils and cutlery are other essential pieces of camping cook ware. Depending on what type of campfire foods you want to prepare, you may be able to get away with just a simple knife and spoon, or you may need a more elaborate utensil set including a spatula, measuring cups, tongs and forks. Folding utensil sets are available that allow for easy storage. If you are worried about storage space, a simple and cost effective solution is to purchase an all-purpose wooden spoon and saw off most of its handle, being careful of splinters from the sawed off end. Also, look for plastic cutlery sets including forks, spoons, and knives, for another cost saving way to find camping cook ware.
To minimize the need for lots of camping cook ware, there are a few camp cooking strategies you can follow. For example, much cooking preparation can be done ahead of time in your own kitchen. Vegetables can be chopped up and sauces can be prepared and stored in small containers or plastic bags. This allows you to leave behind the knives, cutting boards, stirring spoons, and other equipment that will take up room and need to be cleaned. Also, sticking to simple camp cooking recipes will allow you to reduce the number of camping cook ware pieces needed for your meal preparation. Aluminum foil cooking is a simple and easy method that creates hot, delicious dishes and the only cook ware needed is a roll of foil.
A main choice you will have when shopping for camping cook ware is the type of cook ware material. Aluminum, cast iron, titanium, and stainless steel are all available and each has their own merits. Aluminum, titanium and stainless steel cook ware sets will be lighter and easier to tote around. Aluminum camping cook ware sets may come in non-stick varieties, which will be slightly more expensive. Metal cook ware sets will all be prone to rusting, so be careful that your cooking pans are dry before you store them. Cast iron cook ware sets are especially durable, and can last you a lifetime with proper care. Because they are so sturdy, cast iron cook ware sets will be much heavier and harder to transport than cook ware sets made out of other materials.
Besides pots and pans, utensils and cutlery are other essential pieces of camping cook ware. Depending on what type of campfire foods you want to prepare, you may be able to get away with just a simple knife and spoon, or you may need a more elaborate utensil set including a spatula, measuring cups, tongs and forks. Folding utensil sets are available that allow for easy storage. If you are worried about storage space, a simple and cost effective solution is to purchase an all-purpose wooden spoon and saw off most of its handle, being careful of splinters from the sawed off end. Also, look for plastic cutlery sets including forks, spoons, and knives, for another cost saving way to find camping cook ware.
To minimize the need for lots of camping cook ware, there are a few camp cooking strategies you can follow. For example, much cooking preparation can be done ahead of time in your own kitchen. Vegetables can be chopped up and sauces can be prepared and stored in small containers or plastic bags. This allows you to leave behind the knives, cutting boards, stirring spoons, and other equipment that will take up room and need to be cleaned. Also, sticking to simple camp cooking recipes will allow you to reduce the number of camping cook ware pieces needed for your meal preparation. Aluminum foil cooking is a simple and easy method that creates hot, delicious dishes and the only cook ware needed is a roll of foil.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Consider Temperature When You Go Camping In Summer
Moving outdoors and relishing nature is one of the great gifts of camping. Venturing out into the outdoors and learning how to endure it is again among the potential drawbacks of camping.
While it is a fun that your strength is put to test in camping, but to get windblown, cold, and wet is not so at all. To plan ahead on finding out that the weather report is good at the selected location is wise enough, but weather in wild zones is susceptible to quick change. Moreover, in comparison to urban areas such changes can be more severe. In hilly areas that provide many campsites, the difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures is wider.
A clock of the type that can adjust with indoor or outdoor temperatures, in the tent or outside, should come along with you. Perhaps it would be more advisable to connect with one of the more extensive weather stations immediately. Note carefully their reports on rainfall, a reliable indicator like air pressure, temperature, humidity and some such things that have impact on your plans on the campsite. Such sets are portable and accurate, while the power they get from AA batteries.
Even though summer camping is more common, the weather factor still you cannot ignore. In many camping sites highest temperatures can reach 90s and may even go beyond that in July-August while at night they can drop down to 50s.
Since hiking is a common activity during camping, high daytime temperatures cause worries for hikers. You would need extra minerals and water, and if you take along a sports drink low in sugar content that would be helpful. You must take rest for five minutes each hour. If your dresses are in layers you can take off the clothing when temperature is high and still you can feel comfortable when the temperature drops down.
Better not move out without shirt on unless it is an open area, and even in such areas it would be advisable often to have the shirt on. It is because toxic plants, scrapes from bushes or trees or rocks make you more prone in the outdoors to quick septic. In high altitudes excessive UV exposure is a more serious threat. It is advisable that you use sunscreen on exposed skin areas and restrict to the minimum such areas.
For those who relish snow and colder temperatures, winter camping, less common though, can give them immense delight. Since deer, moose and other animals trek into lower altitudes then in search of sufficient food, chances are brighter that you would view wildlife. Since bear sightings are rare it would be a great experience to have that. To see a bear may not sound something dangerous, though the reality may be otherwise. Dangerous they can be and moreover the grizzlies view people not as playmates, but as food.
A good item that should accompany you is thermal underwear and socks of the kind that soaks up sweat yet at the same time lets in some air through the material. More comfort you would get thereby since in colder weather temperature control is of utmost importance. Not only that frostbite is really a dangerous possibility but often the damage it inflicts upon nerves and tissue is of permanent nature.
On frozen lakes, ponds and streams better not walk if your winter camping trips are scheduled in winter. It is because the ice is generally only a couple of inches thick, while the asymmetries in he crystalline structure of natural ice are quite abundant. Whimsical cracking at any moment is encountered frequently. It may so happen that the ice that appeared strong enough only ten minutes back would fail without any warning to bear your weight. Highly annoying it is and a potential danger too just like icy water pressed against your skin firmly.
For your selected location make advance planning for the season and the climate and a much more enjoyable camping will be your gain.
While it is a fun that your strength is put to test in camping, but to get windblown, cold, and wet is not so at all. To plan ahead on finding out that the weather report is good at the selected location is wise enough, but weather in wild zones is susceptible to quick change. Moreover, in comparison to urban areas such changes can be more severe. In hilly areas that provide many campsites, the difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures is wider.
A clock of the type that can adjust with indoor or outdoor temperatures, in the tent or outside, should come along with you. Perhaps it would be more advisable to connect with one of the more extensive weather stations immediately. Note carefully their reports on rainfall, a reliable indicator like air pressure, temperature, humidity and some such things that have impact on your plans on the campsite. Such sets are portable and accurate, while the power they get from AA batteries.
Even though summer camping is more common, the weather factor still you cannot ignore. In many camping sites highest temperatures can reach 90s and may even go beyond that in July-August while at night they can drop down to 50s.
Since hiking is a common activity during camping, high daytime temperatures cause worries for hikers. You would need extra minerals and water, and if you take along a sports drink low in sugar content that would be helpful. You must take rest for five minutes each hour. If your dresses are in layers you can take off the clothing when temperature is high and still you can feel comfortable when the temperature drops down.
Better not move out without shirt on unless it is an open area, and even in such areas it would be advisable often to have the shirt on. It is because toxic plants, scrapes from bushes or trees or rocks make you more prone in the outdoors to quick septic. In high altitudes excessive UV exposure is a more serious threat. It is advisable that you use sunscreen on exposed skin areas and restrict to the minimum such areas.
For those who relish snow and colder temperatures, winter camping, less common though, can give them immense delight. Since deer, moose and other animals trek into lower altitudes then in search of sufficient food, chances are brighter that you would view wildlife. Since bear sightings are rare it would be a great experience to have that. To see a bear may not sound something dangerous, though the reality may be otherwise. Dangerous they can be and moreover the grizzlies view people not as playmates, but as food.
A good item that should accompany you is thermal underwear and socks of the kind that soaks up sweat yet at the same time lets in some air through the material. More comfort you would get thereby since in colder weather temperature control is of utmost importance. Not only that frostbite is really a dangerous possibility but often the damage it inflicts upon nerves and tissue is of permanent nature.
On frozen lakes, ponds and streams better not walk if your winter camping trips are scheduled in winter. It is because the ice is generally only a couple of inches thick, while the asymmetries in he crystalline structure of natural ice are quite abundant. Whimsical cracking at any moment is encountered frequently. It may so happen that the ice that appeared strong enough only ten minutes back would fail without any warning to bear your weight. Highly annoying it is and a potential danger too just like icy water pressed against your skin firmly.
For your selected location make advance planning for the season and the climate and a much more enjoyable camping will be your gain.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Camping Trip Checklist
Besides the tent, sleeping bags, and cooler there are many essentials that must be brought in order to have a successful, enjoyable camping trip. Depending upon the environment where the camping trip will be, these essentials can vary according to the terrain, whether, and any flora and fauna that may be encountered. Also, who is going on the trip must be considered – children may require different gear from adults.
A first aid kit is absolutely essential no matter the camping environment or the makeup of the group making the trip. Camping trips, by definition, are to areas away from civilization and should an injury occur it could be some time before professional medical attention is available. That’s why it is so important to have a first aid kit packed for the trip.
In every first aid kit, there should be a flashlight with working batteries. Be sure to check that the flashlight works before leaving home. This flashlight should be additional to other flashlights more casually used. It’s there in case of an emergency and other flashlights are not available. Also, the kit should contain a whistle. The whistle has a dual purpose – a method for locating lost campers and for scaring off wild animals. There should be a whistle for every person in the group and they should be worn whenever a trek into the wilderness is begun. Also, the kit needs tweezers, cloth bandage for wrapping sprains, etc., band-aids for small abrasions, anti-itch cream, burn cream, aloe vera for sunburns, a thermometer to check for fevers, antiseptic (Listerine works), pain medicine (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or aspirin), and a first-aid handbook that can provide guidance in the case of an emergency.
In addition to the first aid kit, basic necessities and tools should be packed. Pack flashlights for adults, and one for each child if children will be camping – this will avoid arguments on who gets to use the flashlight. Battery powered headlamps can provide light for nighttime activities. Campfires do not provide adequate light for nighttime cooking, for example. Wooden matches and a lighter are always needed for lighting campfires and serve as a backup for each other should one method become inoperable. Be sure to bring screwdrivers, a hammer, and a camp knife. Also keep a fire extinguisher handy just in case. Finally, some duct tape should be packed. Duct tape can fix unseen tears in tent material that become a problem should it start to rain, plus it has many other uses.
All the items already mentioned are essential for a successful, headache free trip. Other items that should be brought include personal hygiene items like toothbrushes/toothpaste, shampoo, a mirror, brush, etc. Be sure to pack toilet paper and a shovel for when nature calls. If you’re camping in the summer time be sure to pack sunscreen and lip balm. Lip balm is a nice item to have during the colder months also. Be sure to bring bug repellent and some bug candles. Bug candles when lit help keep away the bugs from your campsite.
There are also some simple items to bring that can increase the comfort level when sleeping in a tent. Cut down a piece of carpet to the size of your tent and place it inside when the tent is up. This will provide a great comfort enhancement to the hard ground. A camping stove will greatly enhance the camping experience when it’s time to eat. While it is fun to cook on the open campfire this can be impractical when cooking hamburger meat or fish, but it is perfect for roasting marshmallows. Also, campers might consider investing in a cooler that operates off a car battery. These are really small refrigerators that plug into the cigarette lighter. These eliminate the need for ice – which melts, of course.
A first aid kit is absolutely essential no matter the camping environment or the makeup of the group making the trip. Camping trips, by definition, are to areas away from civilization and should an injury occur it could be some time before professional medical attention is available. That’s why it is so important to have a first aid kit packed for the trip.
In every first aid kit, there should be a flashlight with working batteries. Be sure to check that the flashlight works before leaving home. This flashlight should be additional to other flashlights more casually used. It’s there in case of an emergency and other flashlights are not available. Also, the kit should contain a whistle. The whistle has a dual purpose – a method for locating lost campers and for scaring off wild animals. There should be a whistle for every person in the group and they should be worn whenever a trek into the wilderness is begun. Also, the kit needs tweezers, cloth bandage for wrapping sprains, etc., band-aids for small abrasions, anti-itch cream, burn cream, aloe vera for sunburns, a thermometer to check for fevers, antiseptic (Listerine works), pain medicine (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or aspirin), and a first-aid handbook that can provide guidance in the case of an emergency.
In addition to the first aid kit, basic necessities and tools should be packed. Pack flashlights for adults, and one for each child if children will be camping – this will avoid arguments on who gets to use the flashlight. Battery powered headlamps can provide light for nighttime activities. Campfires do not provide adequate light for nighttime cooking, for example. Wooden matches and a lighter are always needed for lighting campfires and serve as a backup for each other should one method become inoperable. Be sure to bring screwdrivers, a hammer, and a camp knife. Also keep a fire extinguisher handy just in case. Finally, some duct tape should be packed. Duct tape can fix unseen tears in tent material that become a problem should it start to rain, plus it has many other uses.
All the items already mentioned are essential for a successful, headache free trip. Other items that should be brought include personal hygiene items like toothbrushes/toothpaste, shampoo, a mirror, brush, etc. Be sure to pack toilet paper and a shovel for when nature calls. If you’re camping in the summer time be sure to pack sunscreen and lip balm. Lip balm is a nice item to have during the colder months also. Be sure to bring bug repellent and some bug candles. Bug candles when lit help keep away the bugs from your campsite.
There are also some simple items to bring that can increase the comfort level when sleeping in a tent. Cut down a piece of carpet to the size of your tent and place it inside when the tent is up. This will provide a great comfort enhancement to the hard ground. A camping stove will greatly enhance the camping experience when it’s time to eat. While it is fun to cook on the open campfire this can be impractical when cooking hamburger meat or fish, but it is perfect for roasting marshmallows. Also, campers might consider investing in a cooler that operates off a car battery. These are really small refrigerators that plug into the cigarette lighter. These eliminate the need for ice – which melts, of course.
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