Are you thinking about going camping? Planning is required for any trip, whether it is overnight or if you are going to stay a long weekend. The information contained in this article will assist you in planning an enjoyable and laid back camping trip.

Look for where you’re going to set up your shelter before darkness falls. When night falls, making food, finding wood, and pitching your tent can be very difficult. This is even more true for city folks whose eyes are not used to the pitch black. Don’t get into this situation, look for proper shelter before you get to this point.

Although you might assume the woods will offer you plenty of firewood for your camping needs, nature may surprise you with rain-soaked logs or wood that will not easily ignite. Bringing some extra wood in a watertight wrapping is a smart idea for camping success.

Pack a survival kit and carry it on you at all times. You should have a bandanna (to use as a sling or tourniquet), wound coverings, something to use for sprains, matches, a knife, tablets to purify water and a compass in your kit. These items are important to have in case you get lost. If you don’t take it with you on excursions it will serve you no good.

Double-check any medical insurance. Sometimes going into a different state means that you will need to have an additional policy. It is even more critical if you are camping outside of your country. Be sure that your insurance will cover you, no matter where you are.

Bring along a bandana or handkerchief. It can be used as a hand towel, potholder or even a gag in a pinch. There are a lot of different uses for it, so make sure you bring one on every camping trip with you.

Purchase a few camping pillows to take with you. Regular bed pillows can become damp if the weather is wet or humid. The moisture in the air can also cause mildew. Pillows designed for camping offer a coating that prevents moisture absorption.

Try to find a campsite that is closer to your house for your convenience when on your first trip. You may encounter problems with your equipment, or you may decide to come home early. You might realize you haven’t packed enough clothes or food. There are a lot of different things that can come about and being closer to home will make it a lot easier.

Food is one of the most important items to bring while camping. Make sure to bring food that won’t go bad while you are on your trip. Food poisoning is a great way to make a good trip go bad. Take the proper steps to prepare your food and do research if necessary.

Whenever you go camping, it’s important to remember to bring all of the items you will need when you arrive at your destination. Your whole trip could be ruined if you forget a couple of things. You might want to create a checklist of things you need to bring. You need to include things like; hand sanitizer, fire starters, utility knife, water, tarps, sleeping bags, tents and prepared foods.

Decide what clothing you will need before you make your trip. Clean clothes are important, as you will not want to feel dirty while out in the wilderness. Also, remember to bring clothing that is weather appropriate for the climate of your campsite. Durable shoes like hiking boots or other closed-toe shoes are also recommended for many situations.

Charge your cellular phone to maximum capacity before you leave on your trip. Also, bring additional batteries in the event of an emergency. Your phone could be the most important equipment you have in an emergency.

You should now have a good idea on how to plan your trip. It does not matter whether you are camping for one night or two weeks, you still need to carry out extensive planning. Start planning now for that upcoming trip, and you’ll be glad you did.