Are you thinking about going camping? It is important to plan no matter how long your trip will be. The following advice can make any camping trip more relaxing and fun.

Bring sleeping bags appropriate for the season. If you’re camping in the heat of summer, a sub-zero bag just isn’t comfortable or appropriate. On the flip side, bring a sleeping bag meant for summer camping will make you very cold during your winter camping trip. You might develop hypothermia.

Let everyone know they have a say in the campsite and should help pick a favorite spot. Discuss which state you would most like to visit. Since the are so many great options to choose from across the U.S., it might be hard to select only one! To make it easy, pick a few that you really like and then have a family vote.

Learn to set up your tent prior to leaving on your trip. This allows you to check and see that all the pieces are there and that you know how to assemble your shelter correctly. You will find your frustration level diminishes greatly as well.

You don’t have to entirely rough it. Bring a little piece of luxury from home. Take something like creamer for your coffee or a chocolate candy bar. A few small indulgences can make you incredibly happy.

Oranges taste great, but they can also help keep mosquitoes away from you. Keep the peels when you are finished eating them. Rub the peels on your body and mosquitoes will stay away.

If your dog goes with you, always keep up with him. Other campers might be fearful of your dog, no matter how friendly he might be. You should keep that in mind while you are on your camping trip. Dogs can also damage campsites, or get into the belongings of your neighboring camps, without proper supervision.

Duct tape is an interesting item to be included in your inventory while camping. It is nearly as useful while camping as it is around the house. Tape can be used to seal holes in your sleeping mattress. You can close up rips and tears, and bundle things together. You can even put some under your feet before long hikes so that you don’t get blisters. You can even use it to hold on a makeshift bandage.

Are you new to camping and now have a brand new tent in your possession? Spend time practicing pitching a tent prior to leaving for your trip. This way, you will know the things you need to put your tent up. That way, you can get things done rapidly once you get to the campsite.

Sleeping Bag

Take along a sleeping bag that matches the climate where you’re going. Bags that are light are good for warmer places and a sleeping bag that’s heavier works best when things are colder. You want a sleeping bag that is close to your body and helps you retain your body heat if you plan to sleep in a tent.

It’s a great idea to bring along beef jerky or trail mix when you go camping. These grab-and-go snacks are great for taking on a hike or as a snack after a long day when you don’t feel like preparing a meal. These foods also keep well, eliminating the worry of spoilage.

Utility Knives

Utility knives are great to have when camping. It is even better if you have more than one. Utility knives serve many functions so bring along at least one.

Remember to choose a sleeping bag that is suitable for the season you are camping in. Choose a lighter bag for summer months, as an example. But during the cold of winter, you need a thermal bag that will keep you protected from the elements.

Think about how you are going to get food cooked at your campsite. The cooking method is going to determine what food is appropriate for taking so make this decision well in advance. Cooking over a campfire is fun, but can’t be done with out the right tools.

You should now be better prepared to plan for your trip. You will need the same things no matter how long you plan to camp. Are you ready for a fun camping trip?