Nothing really beats spending time with your friends and family beneath the stars. There is a reason that camping is so great. For the most pleasant and safest trip possible, however, it is best to keep some basics in mind. You will find some wonderful advice on how to prepare for your next outing.

Select a sleeping bag which is right 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 use a lightweight sleeping bag during the winter, you can spend your night shivering if it’s cold outside. Hypothermia can be experienced, as well.

Remember that you, your possessions and your family members are inevitably going to get dirty. Don’t stress out when it inevitably happens. Just enjoy and appreciate being free in the wilderness; get stuck in and get messy. You can reclaim the normalcy in your life when you arrive back home.

Take along a survival kit and carry it at all times. This kit should include water-purifying tablets, a first-aid kit, flare gun, survival knife and waterproof matches. This kit can keep you alive! Never let it leave your side.

Make sure to pack plenty of extra clothing for your children. Camping can be messy. Your kids may love playing around in the grass and dirt. As the day goes on, your kids will get messier and messier. Be sure to pack some extra clothes for your kids in case this happens. Don’t be caught without something you need!

Look at the weather forecast prior to leaving for your trip. There are lots of websites that can give you an idea of what the typical weather is like in the area during the time of your travel. This way you will know what type of clothing to pack and the equipment you need.

Affirm that your insurance is intact before you leave on your trip. You may need additional coverage in case you have an accident in a different state. If you plan to travel to a different country, such as Canada, then its is especially important. Be sure you’re prepared to be on the safe side!

A hankerchief is a great item to bring on your trip. That small piece of cloth could become a potholder, a bag, a blotter or a towel. Its uses are innumerable, so it is smart to always have one available.

Find all of your equipment and start packing well in advance of your trip. It would be a shame to arrive at your campsite only to realize you have forgotten some important items, like food and water. Create a checklist if you feel like you are going to forget something.

Flashlights, lanterns and a few extra batteries must be taken for every camping trip. There are times when you’ll need light to help you see after sundown. Sufficient light can help you avoid falling or bumping into to animals. When you go camping and your kids come along, it is smart to let them each have their own flashlight.

Mosquito Bites

An orange may prevent you from getting mosquito bites when you’re on your camping trip. Don’t worry if you forgot mosquito repellant. Experts say to rub your exposed body parts with a inside layer of a ripe orange peel. This should stop any frustrating, itchy mosquito bites.

Beef jerky and trail mix are two camping staples you should always bring with you. When you reach the end of a long day, it may not sound appealing to cook, so it helps to have these things to eat when you’re too tired. These kinds of foods do not spoil quickly, so you can always save them for a later time.

As mentioned earlier, anytime you plan to head into the wilderness, you need to keep several things in mind. Be certain to utilize the advice discussed above in order to have a safe, enjoyable time in the great outdoors.