With popular reality programming focused on the outdoors, it is no wonder that we are seeing a resurgence of interest in camping. If camping is something that you have been considering for some time, but you are not sure where to begin, you can find the information you need in the article below.

Always find your shelter before it gets dark when you go camping. Once it gets dark, it is much harder to find wood for your fire, prepare food, and get your tent ready. This is very true if you’re used to being in a city where there isn’t any darkness ever. Don’t get into this situation, look for proper shelter before you get to this point.

When camping, there is a good chance that your items will get dirty. Being prepared for this will make sure you don’t stress too much when it occurs. Enjoy the outdoors and get down and dirty. You can get cleaned up when you return home.

Let those you are camping with help pick the site. Have a conversation about where you want to go. The options are plenty, so do your research! Throw out your ideas to see if they stick with members of your family.

See if you can integrate swimming into your camping trip. Any time you go camping, you are likely to miss taking a shower. Spending some time in cool water can help you stay clean and refresh your spirits, so a little swimming can soothe the part of your heart longing for a bath.

To start your fires at camp, use dryer lint as kindling. Start saving this lint a short time period prior to going camping and you’ll have enough lint in time. An easy way to remember to save up your lint is to keep a plastic bag near your dryer as a reminder. Doing this means you can just snag your kindling on the way out the door the morning your trip starts.

Oranges are great for camping since they’re healthy, easy to eat, and they also keep mosquitoes away. Rubbing orange peels on your body will function as a perfect insect repellent.

When you bring a canine along on a camping trip, don’t forget his leash and to keep a close eye on him always. Other campers might be fearful of your dog, no matter how friendly he might be. Respecting your fellow campers is essential when camping. You do not want then to ruin anyone’s campsite due to lack of supervision.

Sleeping Bag

Choose an appropriate sleeping bag for the conditions in which you will be camping. Bags that are light are good for warmer places and a sleeping bag that’s heavier works best when things are colder. Make sure your sleeping bag fits you well, hugs your body and helps you to retain heat.

Plan out your clothing prior to a camping trip. Clean clothes are important, as you will not want to feel dirty while out in the wilderness. Also, be sure that you carry articles of clothing that are appropriate for the weather and climate of your camping location. Shoes need to be closed and durable, especially for hiking.

One simple tip that many people overlook is creating your shelter before dark. It is really hard to set up a tent in the dark. You’d have to do it with the light from a fire or from a flashlight, both of which could be difficult. It’s much easier to pitch your tent while it’s light out.

When you get done with your camping trip, clean up any of the mess you have made. Be sure to bring plenty of garbage bags to put your trash in when you cleanup. Also, it’s important to take all food with you when you leave too. The main rule when you’re leaving a campsite is that you should only leave your footprints behind.

As crazy as it might sound, do not forget to pack some toilet paper. If you camp in a place with no toilets, you’ll need to go in the woods. If you forget the toilet paper, you may be forced to use leaves, some of which could be poison ivy.

There are many things to take into consideration before camping. But you’re now likely feeling a little better prepared to handle the basics. By knowing what you can expect, you can just relax and enjoy yourself!