You’ve never camped before? You’re missing out! Sleeping and waking up to nature is one of the most relaxing things imaginable. If your lack of camping knowledge has held you back in the past, the advice that follows may change all of that.

You can go swimming at the same time that you camp! You might long for a good shower when you are camping. The coolness of the water will help you feel cleaner and more refreshed, so you won’t miss your shower as much as you thought you might!

You can easily start campfires using dryer lint as a starter material. Before you go camping, start saving lint from the dryer’s filter. Just hang a grocery bag next to your dryer and stuff the lint into the bag. By doing this, you’ll have all the kindling you need.

Be prepared to handle any emergency that may arise and have a plan in place. The contents of the kit may change depending on where you camp and who you are with, but it should contain basic supplies. Don’t forget to pack the extra for your location, too, such as antivenom for snake bites.

Oranges can be used as a food source and a way to repel mosquitoes while you camp. After you have eaten the orange, rub the peel onto exposed body parts and this will repel any blood-sucking bugs.

Duct tape is a valuable item to carry for many different situations. It’s easy to use, can hold out moisture and will even fix a leak or a broken shoe!

Kids love camping, especially when you plan activities that they can do. They could get bored out in the woods and away from the things they use to entertain themselves regularly. They may not know how to fish or pitch tents. Show them how to do these things before you leave if they haven’t spent a lot of times outdoors.

If your dog will be joining you on your camping trip, keep him leashed and under constant supervision. Some people get frightened by dogs. Respecting your fellow campers is essential when camping. Also, dogs have the potential to wreck your campsite, or that of someone else, if they are allowed to run loose.

Be sure to avoid draining your flashlight’s batteries on your camping trip. It is all too easy to accidentally switch your flashlight on when digging through your bags. Keep the batteries for the flashlight in backwards. This prevents the flashlight from coming on and will ensure it is ready for use when needed.

Make a list and check it twice before packing for your camping excursion. This is especially crucial if the campgrounds are in a remote location. A couple of days before your trip, make a list of everything you need, checking things off as you pack them

Sleeping Bag

Bring along a sleeping bag made for the current weather. Hot weather calls for a lightweight bag, while heavier bags are needed for colder temperatures. You also want to get a sleeping bag that is comfortable to sleep in as well, so test them out.

Watch your children at all times. There are always cars arriving and leaving from campsites, and it is easy for little kids to get lost easily in wooded areas. Therefore, children should always have close supervision.

Always be aware of where your camp is located. You want to avoid erecting your tent near a wasp’s nest or other insect habitats. If you’re near lots of vegetation, you should wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin from insects. Insect repellent will also help to keep the insects away.

Now that you know what to do, start planning your camping excursion. Apply all that you have read, and you can camp like a pro. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or an extensive camping trip, you will be sure to have a great time.