The allure of the great outdoors is something that many people enjoy. Going camping prepared is always the best bet though, and having some tips and tricks up your sleeve never hurts. If you spend enough time reviewing the ideas below, you can plan a wonderful trip every single time.

Remember that everything you bring along, including you and your family, will more than likely get dirty. While baby wipes can be used to help for some level of cleanliness, expect that people will get dirty. Be ready for it and accept it. Enjoy being in the woods and allow yourself to let loose and be messy. You can get clean when you return home.

Survival Kit

Bring a survival kit on the trip and keep it on your person all the time. Things to include in your survival pack are a knife, matches that are waterproof, first aid kit, flares and tablets to purify water. This kit could be the difference between life and death. It is important that you carry your survival kit with you at all times.

Be sure your tent is big enough. This assures there is enough sleeping and moving around room.

Try to combine a camping experience with a swimming experience of some kind. When camping, you may find you miss your home shower. By taking a dip in a pool, lake or river, you will have fun and feel clean and refreshed at the same time!

Don’t wait until nightfall to set up camp. Look for a safe parking place if you are camping in an RV. If you are in a tent, you need to find some flat, high ground. Doing this during daylight hours will save you hassle and frustration. This can help to reduce the stress that you have during your trip.

Don’t forget to pack up some duct tape when you’re camping because it’s very versatile. You can patch holes in tents, shoes and inflatables as well as using it to secure your tent or seal your mosquito netting.

Buy some camping pillows. Your standard pillow that you have at home will not be comfortable if the conditions become humid. Standard pillows will take in moisture and could mold or mildew. Pillows designed for camping offer a coating that prevents moisture absorption.

Make sure that you bring all of your camping equipment with you before you head out on your trip. You definitely don’t want to leave something essential behind, such as your sleeping bag or tent. Create a checklist if you feel like you are going to forget something.

When you are at your campsite, pitch your tent on the softest and most level ground you are able to find. Pitching your tent on bumpy, rocky ground or on a slope won’t make for a very comfortable night’s sleep. Also remember to put down a tarp underneath your tent as an extra layer of protection from water.

Believe it or not, an orange’s peel may keep mosquitoes from biting you during your next camping excursion. If you arrive at your camping destination and realize you’ve forgotten to pack bug repellant, fear not. Rub the inner peel of an orange over your body as mosquitoes will refrain from biting you. It’ll keep you mosquito-free for hours.

When planning for a camping trip, make sure you bring beef jerky and trail mix. 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 are non-perishable; if you do not use them, you can simply bring them home.

You should always bring a spare utility knife when camping. Utility knives can be quite versatile, so be sure to have an extra with you.

Camping is one of life’s true joys for those who have a thorough understanding of how to do it well. Good research is the foundation for a wonderful camping trip. Use the guide above and prepare yourself for the best time of your life.