TV relies heavily on outdoor reality shows, so it is hardly a wonder camping has become so popular. If you want to spend some time outside for fun and relaxation, keep reading for how to do it right.

It is important to establish and set up your shelter before the sun goes down. If you wait until after dark to set up you will find it to be nearly impossible, even if you have decent light. This is even more true if you’re accustomed to city life, and your eyes haven’t adjusted to the darkness of the woods. Avoid this by setting up your shelter ahead of time.

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. Therefore, take some wood with you on your camping trip and store it in a location where it can remain dry.

Pack a survival kit and carry it on you at all times. Don’t forget things like knives, waterproof matches, flares, first aid, and a water purifier. You may find that this kit makes the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Your kit should not be left behind at the camp site, but should be carried with you wherever you go.

Ensure the tent is an adequate size for anyone that might be with you. This will give you the room necessary for a comfortable camping trip.

Before camping, check out your medical insurance to affirm that it is intact. Some policies will not cover you outside your own state. It is even more critical if you are camping outside of your country. It is important to always be prepared.

Bring a hankerchief or a bandanna with you. That small piece of cloth could become a potholder, a bag, a blotter or a towel. Because there are so many versatile uses for them, bringing one or two on each camping trip is a good idea.

Buy special camping pillows instead of using your standard ones. Standard bed pillows tend to get sticky in humid weather. They may also get mildew from all the moisture outside. Pillows made specifically for camping have a protective layer that keeps these things from happening.

Make sure that you understand the dangers and risks of the camping site that you choose. That include deadly spiders, sheer drops, and flash flood areas. There are natural hazards associated with every camping area.

When you get to the campsite, set your tent up on the flattest, softest ground you can find. A sloped and/or rocky area will make any time spent inside the tent very uncomfortable. Make sure you put down a tarp before you set up your tent. This will keep water from entering your tent at night.

Try to refrain from draining your flashlight when camping. It is not uncommon to accidentally bump the switch and turn your flashlight on when you are digging around in your bag. To make sure your batteries don’t get drained, put the batteries in backwards. This way, you’ll still have fresh batteries for your trip.

Pack extra flashlights and batteries when you are packing for your trip. You will likely need to see when it gets dark out. After all, you don’t want to stumble in the dark, or accidentally step on a wild critter. If you are bringing children on your trip, it’s a good idea to provide each of them with their own light.

There is a lot to think about before you go camping. But you’re now likely feeling a little better prepared to handle the basics. Being forewarned you can now enjoy your trip away and have a lot of fun on your next camping vacation!