Camping is a great way to get away from the city, connect with nature and bond with loved ones. However, this experience can turn into a disaster if you aren’t careful! Thankfully, there are plenty of camping safety tips that will help keep you safe while enjoying nature’s finest.
Plan your trip ahead of time: Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Take a look at the campsite and see where you can camp safely, avoiding areas with potential hazards like steep drop-offs or rivers. Consider how you will store your food and water, and be sure to include a first aid kit.
Pick the right site for you: Make sure you choose a spot that’s close to amenities and has adequate access to a bathroom. It’s also a good idea to choose a site with an elevated spot to protect you from the elements and keep you cool in summer.
Never leave items in the outside compartment of your RV: Leaving a vehicle unattended is an easy target for thieves. Secure all valuables in an inside compartment and lock up the outside. For an additional layer of security, purchase a small safe and hide it in your camper or trailer.
Be aware of wildlife and avoid touching them: While most wild animals are oblivious to humans, some can be dangerous, so always keep your distance when encountering a creature you don’t know. If you do come into contact with an animal, wash your hands and dispose of your food immediately.
Don’t set fires in your tent or around your campsite: This can be a serious danger, especially when the area is wet. It’s best to light your fire in a metal burn ring or stone-lined pit and keep it well away from tents, low-hanging branches, shrubs and trees.
Stay alert: Use your flashlight often, focusing on any suspicious activity, such as someone walking up to your tent or a car parked nearby. If you feel uncomfortable, try to escape in a different direction or call the police.
Invest in a first aid kit: Most parks are in remote locations and medical assistance is sometimes difficult to reach. Having a fully stocked first aid kit will save you a lot of time in the event of an injury.
Have a conversation about safety: Explain to children that they are very different from animals, and it’s very easy for them to lose track of the marked path when the sun goes down. In addition, teach them to keep their things in their tents, and not to leave food in their cars.
Cook your food in a bear-safe container: This is an important lesson for kids to learn early on. It’s important to remember that wild animals have a very strong sense of smell and can detect food that is left out in the open. Teaching kids to keep their food in their tents and away from other people will help prevent this problem.