Are you ready to pack and go on a camping trip? The most important step in any camping trip is planning, whether it is for a long backpacking trip or a weekend at the local park. This article contains all the information you need to make your camping trip something the entire family will enjoy.

When you’re camping, always look for shelter prior to dark. 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 very true if you’re used to being in a city where there isn’t any darkness ever. Avoid these circumstances by finding the right shelter while it is still light.

Don’t worry about over-packing for the kids. Camping is messy business. Children love the dirt. Your kids may become filthy as the day goes on. You don’t want to interrupt their fun, it’s a joy of camping after all; but, keep some extra clothing with you for them. Prepare ahead of time!

Consider taking a CPR and first aid class. This is especially important if young children are traveling with you. This way, should an accident occur, at least you are properly prepared until help arrives. Make sure to do your research. You should be aware of things like whether there are snakes around and what kind of animals live there.

Examine your medical insurance policy. Some policies don’t cover you while out of state and you may have to add an extra policy. This is even more of a factor if you travel to another country to go camping, like Canada. This preparation tactic can help you save a lot of money in the event of an accident.

For an exciting twist on the morning meal while camping with your kids, get up early and prepare a “jungle breakfast”. Bring some packaged foods, beverage boxes and even fruits, then tie them to trees near the campsite. When they wake up, they’ll have to search the “jungle” for breakfast. This is a fun way to bring excitement to the morning.

Carry a bandana or handkerchief with you. This single fabric piece can be used as a carrying bag, hand towel, paper towel, potholder, and blotter. This is an essential item that does not cost a lot of money and can provide a lot of benefits.

If you are interested in camping alone or with friends, make sure you have prepared an emergency kit. The content of this kit should be personalized to the type of camping you will be doing. Having extras like anti-venom is a good defense for certain kinds of wildlife.

Bring oranges not only to eat but also to deter mosquitoes. After you’ve eaten the flesh of the fruit, save all the peels. When you need bug repellant, rub the peels on your skin to repel mosquitos naturally and on the cheap!

Don’t forget to pack up some duct tape when you’re camping because it’s very versatile. It’s easy to use, can hold out moisture and will even fix a leak or a broken shoe!

Make sure that you bring all of your camping equipment with you before you head out on your trip. For example, your trip can be ruined if you forget your sleeping bag or tent. Double check the items you want to take and make a check list before you leave to make sure that you bring everything with you.

Duct Tape

One handy piece of equipment to take with you when you head out on your next camping trip is a roll of duct tape. A roll of duct tape has a great number of uses on a campsite. You can use it to repair a hole in an air mattress. It can also fix up a tarp, sleeping bag, or even the tent. You can even use it to help prevent blisters on your feet. You can use duct tape for almost anything.

This article hopefully helped you become better prepared. No matter how long your trip will be, there are some essentials that must be planned before you go. Make use of your research and start planning for your camping trip today.