Camping has become a popular pastime, thanks in part to all the reality shows depicting outdoor activities. If you are one of the many who enjoys good outdoor fun, read on in the article below for a memorable experience!

When you go camping, find your shelter before it gets dark. Once it grows black in the woods, you can have a hard time setting up your tent, preparing food, and getting adequate firewood. This is particularly true for those city-dwellers that are not used to pitch-black darkness. Do not wind up in this position. Seek shelter and make camp for the night well before darkness sets in.

Sleeping Bag

Pick a sleeping bag which is appropriate for the season. You are going to be really hot and uncomfortable camping in the summertime if your sleeping bag is rated for sub-zero temperatures. If you are going to bring a light bag in the winter, you may end up freezing and having a miserable time. Hypothermia can be experienced, as well.

Remember that everything you bring along, including you and your family, will more than likely get dirty. If you are prepared for that before you go, it will cause less stress when it happens. Take this as an opportunity to enjoy the freedom, let your hair down, and get a little dirtier than usual. You can clean up when you get back home.

Let all of your family members have a chance to contribute to picking a campsite. Talk about the state you wish to see. The U.S. has dozens of great camping options. If necessary, select a few locations yourself, then let the family decide among your choices.

Make sure your medical insurance is up-to-date. Some policies don’t cover you while out of state and you may have to add an extra policy. If you are camping outside of your own country, it can be even more critical. This preparation tactic can help you save a lot of money in the event of an accident.

If you’re camping with kids, try a “jungle breakfast”. Take mini-boxes of cereal, juice boxes and fruit out into the woods, and tie them to the trees. Then, when the kids wake up, have them go and “hunt” for their breakfast. This is a wonderful way to spice up the whole camping trip.

If you think you’ll miss the luxuries of home, bring along a liitle something. Make it something easy to transport like your favorite coffee sweetener or candy. These small treats for yourself can really boost morale.

Pack things like oranges when you go camping. They are nutritious, and they also keep mosquitoes away. When you get through eating an orange, rub the peel on exposed skin to keep pesky bugs away.

Bring duct tape with you since it can help you in many situations. It works quickly for inflatable leaks, tent holes, worn soles on shoes, sealing mosquito nets, securing tent poles, and so much more.

Children love camping, but be sure that you provide them with activities. Being in the woods can be boring for them as time goes on. They may not know how to fish or pitch tents. If they aren’t used to camping activities, teach them before you leave.

If a pet accompanies you to the campground, do not just let him or her run free. Many people are fearful of pets – especially large dogs. It’s important to think of other people when you’re out there camping. Your dog might even damage someone else’s property if not properly supervised.

It’s imperative that you take along the things you need when you’re going camping. If you forget a key item, it can destroy the vacation. Make a master checklist of everything that you will be needing on your trip and be sure to check off items as they are packed or loaded into the car. A few things that you probably should pack include a sleeping bag, tent, knife, food, soap, and plenty of water.

As indicated by this article, a camping trip requires some forethought and preparation. But you’re now likely feeling a little better prepared to handle the basics. You know what you can expect, so focus on enjoying yourself on your trip!