Preparing For Your Family Camping Trip

By: Larry West

Photo by greenkayak73

With the many ways one can do camping, from the comforts of home-like camping in RV’s to tent camping, there is forms of camping for everyone that will make that perfect vacation.

Looking for a way to vacation on a low-budget, then camping is one of the best ways to get outdoors and see the country while maintaining a low-budget. With the many ways one can do camping, from the comforts of home-like camping in RV’s to tent camping, there is forms of camping for everyone that will make that perfect vacation. Tent camping is very popular for the younger families. Tent camping can be a wonderful experience for the seasoned camper; however, it can be a disaster for the beginner.

Having an enjoyable and memorable camping trip means being prepared for all the elements that you might encounter. The things that can go wrong on a camping trip is countless, weather, bugs, bad bathrooms, uneven ground, bad food the list just continues. Having a good plan of action can eliminate many of these problems before they occur.

Most important, a camper with a good plan knows how to adjust to the unexpected elements that can be thrown your way. As hard as it may seem, you can always make the most of any situation. A camper that is prepared for the unexpected will surely have a better camping experience.

A camping check list is a must have. Where you will be camping, the weather conditions, and for how long will help determine the supplies you may need to take. Always pack to meet your basic needs first: food, shelter, and comfort. The shelter is one of the most important items to help assure your camping trip will be a success story instead of a horror story. Try to get a camping tent that is larger than needed, this will give you some additional space. A good tarp over the tent is a good idea to help protect you and your supplies in inclement weather. The camping checklist needs to be updated during and after each trip, for no two camping trips are the same? Its’ better to be over stocked with items, than need it and not have it.

When packing for your trip, let the kids pack all of their belongings. Everyone should have their own flashlight and games. Have them pack their small items in a duffel-bag with their sleeping bag. Once at the campsite encourage everyone to replace any item they use back where it came from. This will eliminate the next person from having to spend time looking for something that is needed. In addition, when packing the group supplies pack each room in separate containers, this way everything has its ‘own place. A good first aid kit is a must have.

Food is one of the most important items for an enjoyable camping trip. Once the family has decided on the type meals you will be preparing, you will need to decide on how to cook them. A good outdoor camping stove or outdoor camping grill will be needed. If you plan on cooking over an open camp fire, a good cooking-grate is a must have.

Taking the time needed to plan your camping trip will increase the odds of your family’s trip being a wonderful experience and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Since my wife and I started camping some four years ago, we have learned that camping is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors. One of the best parts of camping is preparing your meals outdoors and eating at the picnic table. Also, camping allows for a family to build stronger bonds and create memories.

Great Tips for Car Camping Enjoyment

 

Photo by so-ya!

Camping is one of my favorite activities and my favorite type of camping is car camping. However, there are many other types of camping such as base camping, canoe camping, RV camping, tent trailer camping and back yard camping. Regardless of how you spend your time out of doors or how much time you spend out of doors, there is always more to learn. I have compiled an extensive list of camping tips and this installment is for car campers. Here are my favorite tips for getting the most out of your car camping experience.

Organize your gear before you go. The basic principle is to organize or categorize your gear by "when" and "how quickly" you will need it. When I get to the campsite, the first thing I do is prepare shelter. So my tent and shade awning are the easiest pieces of gear to get to.

Plan your campsite. Understand how vehicles, wind, sun and rain will enter the campsite. For example, if the wind is coming out of the west, you’ll probably want your tent and kitchen west of any campfire to reduce smoke nuisance.

Always have a first aid kit in camp. Everyone in camp should know where it is, have access to it and know how to use it. I keep mine in plain sight in my kitchen. If it’s locked in my truck, no one can get to it except me.

Every camp needs a shovel. I believe a shovel is the most important tool in camp. You’ll use it to manage your campfire, leveling sleeping spots and countless other uses. Don’t leave home without it.

What tent should you use? I recommend a tent that is bigger than you think you’ll need. If inclement weather sets in, you’ll have a spot out of the elements for reading and playing games. My tent is big enough for two people, two cots, two chairs and two dogs.

There is nothing wrong with having a checklist. Things frequently forgotten are: extra batteries, trash bags, kitchen towels, hats, reading material, sleeping pillows, hiking boots and pet food.

Your most important camping gear should always be on your body. Not in your pack, not in your tent or in your vehicle. Whenever you leave camp always have a watch, a whistle, a cell phone, a flashlight and a knife on your person.

Some neat tidbits I’ve picked up over the years are: a golf towel is perfect for hanging in your kitchen because it comes with a grommet, you can never have enough zip lock bags, you won’t find me camping without a flare – it’s perfect for lighting wet firewood, my camp chairs have side tables attached to them, I pre-cook baked potatoes at home and warm them up in the camp fire, in good weather my hammock gets lots of use.

Car camping allows you to take virtually anything with you when you camp. But the most important of all is good company. Take along good friends and family. When you do, it doesn’t really matter if you have the best gear or the best techniques, the one thing you will have is the best of times. Use this information and you’ll Get It Right The First Time. Get Outdoors!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chuck Fitzgerald is the owner of Arizona based BackCountry Toys, an online specialty store with the “Best Gear Out There” and dedicated to helping outdoor enthusiasts to “Get It Right The First Time” with timely educational information. Please visit www.BackCountryToys.com to find great gear and to receive the Fact & Tips e-newsletter, "FreshAir.” (800) 316-9055.

How to Make the Most Out of Your Next Camping Trip

By: Jon Tsourskis

Photo by pixn8tr

So you're ready to venture out and get some time away from the city life. To make the most of your next camping trip, you need to plan, prepare and pack. Just a few tips to help you get the most out of your coveted weekend in the wilderness!

Plan, prepare, and pack

Make sure you take a look at the weather forecast. You can pack your clothes, shoes, food, and fishing supplies—then run it by your fellow campers to make sure you haven't missed anything. When you're in the wilderness, you generally can't run out to the store to make a purchase and online shopping isn't an option.

Create a menu around the times of day people will be available to eat. Make sure you have a few different options, and try to stock up on the necessities to pack a snack for a hike. When returning to camp, you can always cook burgers, hot dogs, or if you're really bold—make a steak dinner for your family and friends! By utilizing items you already have in your home, you can save yourself some cash. Take the ketchup you bought last week, you do not need a special, new one for this trip. Save yourself some money on the food and invest in camping supplies like proper baggage or tents that will keep you safe and sound during even the chilliest night or heaviest rain.

When packing, make sure you're bringing cleaning supplies—a broom and garbage bags will suffice. Make sure you're keeping your camping area clean. If this area is clean, you're sure to make the most out of your next camping trip! Make a rule that no one with dirty shoes can come inside of your sleeping quarters; this will prevent dirt and water from entering this area. It will also help the main cleaner from having to deal with maintaining this area every few hours.

Now that we've got all of the business out of the way, you can also make the most out of your next camping trip by scheduling activities. Many campgrounds have activities from games, to scavenger hunts, to meet and greets with other campers. You could organize your own entertainment by bringing games, or scheduling a historic hike. Make your camping experience fun by utilizing the spaces around you.

By remaining organized and prepared for any given situation, you'll make the most out of your next camping trip. Have some fun, get creative, and utilize all of the great camping accessories that are available today.

Jon Tsourakis - About the Author:

The Camping Equipment Company has designed top of the line family tents since 2000. Providing innovative high quality designs at an affordable price and offering one of the largest selections of family camping tents, screen houses, canopies, hammocks, sleeping bags, self inflating mattresses and many more camping accessories. The Camping Equipment Company caters to all camping enthusiasts. Camping Equipment

How to Keep Children Entertained on Long Camping Trips

By: Christopher Miguel



Camping is a good opportunity to unwind and relieve oneself from the guzzling sounds of the city. Going to a secluded area with fresh air will surely leave anyone with new light into their life once they get back, and where else is there to go but to a camping trip to be one with nature. Not only adults can go on a camping trip, but children can as well. To make your camping trip more memorable, prepare things and activities for your children to do so they won't get bored and ruin the entire trip. When travelling with kids, always remember that there are other options other than the television that could keep them entertained for hours.

Here are some of the things that can be done while on an outdoor excursion with little ones.

• Swimming – Ask around for safe swimming spots where your children can take a dip at. But make sure they are supervised as no water is ever safe.
• Biking – Renting a bike will create hours of fun as it allows the rider to explore the wilderness. Just tell your children to bring lightweight camping tents so they'd have a place to rest if they get tired and outdoor camping equipment such as helmet and extra supplies.
• Animal watching – Sightseeing is always fun. If you happen to camp in a conservatory type resort, the options are endless for animal tours. So make the most of it and take as many pictures as you like but keep your distance of course as you stay in gazebo tents.
• Camp stories – By letting your children sleep on their own hiking tent, they will be able to exchange ghost stories and the like as they cramp up in their children's sleeping bags with fun and excitement.

Children don't necessarily have to be a burden on trips like this. If you know how to keep them entertained then your family will surely have the best vacation of your life.

Christopher Miguel - About the Author:

Shirley Brown is a writer for a leading brand tents australia.

Camping with children

By: Christopher Miguel

Photo by chymera

Taking the whole family on a camping adventure is one of the many interesting and creative ways to bond with your family. Camping is a trip wherein campers leave the city or an urban area and go off to the wilderness or outdoor ground, with the right supplies and gear, a camping activity can set out for as long as two weeks or more. When out on the rough country and backwoods, camping can be an exciting experience since campers will have to live on minimal supply and depend on Mother Nature to provide food, so it calls for a lot of hard work too. If you want to give your family the time of their lives, safety and security is the first thing you should assure.

If traveling with small children and babies, always make sure they have the suitable kids camping gear as being out in the outdoors can put them at risk for mosquito bites, plant allergies and cold rash. A baby sleeping bag and toddler sleeping bag will help your little ones sleep better as it keeps them warm and protected since children will usually feel some discomfort when they are not at home. Once you have selected the best equipment for your little campers, the next step is to situate you and your family in a safe location away from possible natural threats such as wild animals and unpredictable weather conditions. Setting up at a family campsite or private ground will not only make your experience safer but also more comfortable as well which will make everyone have more fun in the trip. In a typical campground, camping tents are usually laid out and campers can go on to do their activities as their family tents, other belongings and family members are safe and sound within the premises.

Camping requires time, preparation and effort to make it a successful trip. It can also be a disaster and awful experience if it is not planned well. But with the correct equipment and cooperation from the entire family, it could be an experience worth remembering for the rest of your life.

Christopher Miguel - About the Author:

Shirley Brown is a writer for a leading brand lightweight backpacking tents

Camping - Safe and Convenient

By Stan Parker 

 Photo by i am le petit oiseau

As time passes by, there are lots of changes that happen, especially within our environment - more buildings are built, factories and other sources of air, water and even noise pollution. We used to have fun spending time outdoors with friends and family. We can escape all the problems that plague us daily. We can have time to relax and be at peace with nature. That's why it's always refreshing to go to places where nature is at its best.

We can go hiking, trekking, mountaineering, or simply exploring the wild. The world is simply wonderful. Quite often, we are so immersed in our busy lives making money and establishing our careers that we forget to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. A beautiful world is waiting for us and we need to explore it. What better way to do that than camping, right?

Before you go camping, you need to make sure that you have prepared everything you need. You will be needing food, of course, and camping stove to cook your food.This makes everything convenient because bringing one means that we don't have to make a fire ourselves by gathering wood and arranging stones. Camp fires not only is harmful to our lungs but it is also very harmful to the environment. The risk is also greater as the fire we make can even cause the whole woods to light up. These accidental fires are very common especially when it's summer time. If you want to avoid these accidents, avoid making camp fires. Due to this, taking a camping stove with you is safer and more convenient.

Food will always be important for us and we can't do a lot of walking and adventure-seeking on an empty stomach. If we want to make the most out of our outdoor experience, bringing all the things that we need is important. While you do your preparations, you need to read all the safety precautions so that everything is in its proper place.

How can you enjoy your trip when you put everyone at risk, right? Do your homework and do your research online for useful tips in camping. It's also nice to have the whole family go on camping. By doing this, you will have time to bond with each other, strengthen your relationship and enjoy at the same time.

If you are planning to go camping, do not forget to bring only the best camp chef propane stove so you can be assured of your safety. A portable camping stove is safe, affordable, lightweight and handy wherever you camp.

The Secrets To Choosing The Right Camping Supplies

By Rachel Nunez

Camping is the best time to engage in fun activities such as hiking, fishing, bird hunting, boat riding, and others. But these activities are not enjoyable without exceptional camping equipment supplies. In view of that, it is of utmost importance to bring the right camping supplies in your trip. When planning the activities, you need to make sure that you have a basic camping supplies list of what equipment to bring. If outdoor fishing is on your list of activities, then you will need some fishing supplies to carry out the activity. 

Buying on the Net

Different discount camping supplies are available online. When you search for online camping supplies, you will see that there is a lot of camping gear to choose from. Any type of gear can be purchased via the Internet. Some camping supplies retail shops even offer great discounts on selected items online. This means that you can buy the camping supplies that you need at discounted prices. What a great way to buy the perfect gear for your camping excursion. 

To ensure that you will have a pleasurable experience, you will need to create a list of camping supplies that you will need for the outdoor camping activities. Before embarking on the trip, check if you have all the camping equipment that you need. The camping supplies list is important so that you know what other supplies you need to purchase. 

The Benefits

Buying the right supplies for camping is easy. There are plenty of resources online where you can purchase the right camping equipment. Most of these resources offer a wide array of outdoor camping supplies to choose from. Some camping supply websites offer high-quality equipment at prices that are easy on the pocket. No matter what kind of outdoor camping activity you are in, there are camping tools and equipment readily available for you. When choosing for the right camping supplies, you can start your search by looking into various websites that offer a wide display of cheap camping supplies.

Generally, websites that sell family camping supplies showcase different brands and styles of camping products. When you shop online, you can easily buy the camp gear that you like without any hassle at all. Buying online is very convenient because you can make a comparison of the prices of various supplies needed for camping and choose the one that meets you requirements. 

What to Consider

Purchasing the camping supplies online is very simple nowadays. However, we also have to take the necessary precautions when buying. The best thing to do it is to compare the range of the camping products as to the satisfaction that they can give to the user, their quality, sizes, and prices. Ask yourself these important questions. Are they really needed in the trip? Do they suit your taste and lifestyle? Are they of high quality? Do they meet your camping budget? When you already know the answers to these questions, then, that is the time when you can decide on what camping supplies to buy. 

With the complete list of camping gear and supplies, there is no doubt that you will have a successful camping adventure. The wholesale camping supplies are the key to experiencing a camping excursion at its finest. Most of all, always remember to carry only the essentials. Your main purpose here is to enjoy the trip and to take a breather.

Abou the author
For more tips and information about camping supplies, check out http://www.familycampingsupplies.com/.

7 Top Camping Safety Tips

By Shari Hearn

No doubt about it, camping can be fun. But, if you don't pay attention to safety, your fun camping outing can turn into the camping trip from Hell. What are some of the most important camping safety tips you should know?

1. Plan Ahead. Do your research. Make sure the campground you've chosen is a safe one. Make sure there are no current fire dangers. Check out the weather. Any health alerts in the area, such as dangerous bacteria count in the water, or outbreak of any rodent-carrying viruses?

2. Pack the Emergency Kit. Be prepared for cuts, bee stings and allergic reactions. Bring antihistamines, antiseptic, bug sprays and insect repellents, pain relievers, bandages, sunscreen and if possible, a snake-bite kit.

An emergency kit should also include the following items: Whistle, flashlight, compass, a small Swiss Army knife, razor blades, tweezers, magnifying glass, sterilized water packets for cleaning wounds, emergency blanket, thermometer, cold pack, and a mirror. A mirror can be helpful when signaling for help. Some people also use a CD. If you can afford them, a pair of night-vision goggles can also be a help in an emergency.

3. Arrive at the Campsite Early. Arriving early, with ample daylight, allows you to examine the entire campsite and set up while there's still light. Be on the lookout for sharp objects, broken glass, huge ant beds, branches, poison ivy, hazardous terrain and bees.

4. Build your Tent on a Safe Spot. Make sure your tent is flame-resistant and keep it at a safe distance from the campfire. Try to pitch your tent on elevated land so it doesn't flood in case of rain. In order to keep the bugs out, make sure you close your tent immediately upon entering and leaving.

5. Go Over Safety Issues with Family Members. Make sure family members are aware of poisonous plants in the area. Be sure the children understand that they should never drink from any stream or river, regardless of how clean it may look. Finally, issue each member of your family a whistle for emergency use only.

6. Be Fire Safe. Make sure there are no current fire restrictions before building any fire, and don't build a fire if there are strong winds. When you do build a fire, keep it in the fire ring, and make sure there are no flammable items near the fire. Do not use heating devices or candles inside the tent.

Never leave your campfire unattended, and keep the area clear of leaves and twigs. Before going to bed, make sure the campfire is property put out by drowning it with water.

7. Be Aware of Wild Animals. Be sure to familiarize yourself and your family with safety concerning wild animals. Wild animals have acute senses of smell. Make sure you keep your campsite clean and free of food or garbage which might attract them. It is best to store all food, garbage and strong-smelling items (such as soap or toothpaste) in bear-resistant containers or your vehicle. Keep your sleeping bag and tent completely free of food and food odors, and set up your cooking and eating area at least 100 yards from your tent. Do not go to sleep in the same clothing you cooked in, as even the cooking smells can attract bears and other wild animals.

While it may seem like attention to safety takes the fun out of camping, in reality it helps ensure that your camping vacation is a fun time for the whole family. And, isn't having fun the point of camping?

About the author
Shari Hearn is a writer and creator of an RV camping website where you can learn about such things asbeach camping parks

Camping Tips To Help Make Your Camping Adventure Tons Of Fun

By Gray Rollins

The best camping tip you can get is to abide by the Boy Scout motto and “be prepared.” There are all sorts of things that can happen on a camping trip so expect the unexpected. Make lists of items that you should bring and pack all the essential equipment. Take into consideration the area where you will be, any rules for the camping site, weather conditions, safety and fun.

The Campsite
Make sure you have the proper equipment for camping. Know what sleeping arrangements are and where you will be cooking. If you are using a camper or RV, much of this will be supplied in your facilities but you will need to know any rules for the particular campsite. If you are sleeping outdoors, make sure you have tents and sleeping bags as well as warm clothing. Bring waterproof matches for campfires and cooking. Set up tents according to instruction. Always leave your campsite the way you found it. The best rule of thumb is to make sure it looks like you were never there.

Food
Bring only the cooking utensils you will need to prepare meals and eat. You will not have a dishwasher and may not have trash bins available. So, make sure you can easily clean and dispose of food items and waste. Bring lightweight, non perishable and easy to cook and clean food items. Canned foods, trail mix, soups and stews are great nutritional meals that are easy to store and carry.

My favorite way to cook while camping is over the fire, using a tripod and aluminum foil. There are lots of delicious meals you can cook by putting a few ingredients in a piece of foil, sealing it, and cooking it. Cleanup is a breeze. There are no dishes to wash. You just need to properly dispose of the used aluminum foil. Do an Internet search for “campfire recipes” and you’ll get lots of delicious foil/pouch campfire meal ideas. While getting ready for camping, do not forget the water. Make sure you have plenty available to keep hydrated and to cook with.

Weather
Plan for the expected weather conditions in the area but do not be surprised if there is a sudden climate change. For summer bring hats for protection, sunscreen and insect repellant. For winter, make sure to dress in layers, wear sunscreen, and have waterproof footwear. Always bring extra clothing in case of a climate change. Even in hot weather it can get very chilly at night. Prepare for rain by ensuring you have shelter, tarps and waterproof attire.

Safety
A first aid kit is a required piece of camping equipment. These can be found pre made in pharmacies and outdoor sporting goods stores. Rope, a flashlight and waterproof matches are also important. Having a compass available will help in case you get lost and a whistle can help you call for help even if you are fatigued. If leaving the campsite, make sure you bring food and water supplies.

Fun
Bring games and toys, especially if you are traveling with children. A game of Frisbee or football is a fun way to spend an afternoon. Bring your fishing rods and canoes for fun on the water. Do not forget to bring binoculars and a camera for hikes and nature walks. You may want to bring art supplies and books in case of inclement weather. For nature walks, insect and plant guide books are usually lightweight and can help you identify wildlife and items in nature.

Camping can be great fun but you should always prepare for things that may come up. Sudden changes in weather can occur and accidents can happen. Make a list of the supplies you will need and carefully pack for your trip. Being prepared will help ensure you have a great time and stay as safe as possible in all conditions.

About the author

Gray Rollins is a featured writer for DreamCamping.com. To learn more camping tips and camping recipes, visit our site.