Getting outdoors and camping can be a relaxing experience. However, it’s important to know what you’re doing. In order to get the most out of your trip, you need to prepare your equipment properly. Here are some tips to ensure that your camping trip goes off without a hitch.
You’re going to need to pack a few extra things to keep you and your family comfortable. It’s not enough to just take your tent, sleeping bag and food. Make sure that your gear is easily accessible when you arrive. Whether you’re pitching your tent or using a campsite’s facilities, you’ll want to be able to reach your stuff when you need it.
One of the most useful things to bring along to a camping trip is a sleep mask. This is especially helpful if you’re planning to sleep in your tent. Getting a good night’s sleep is the key to feeling refreshed the next day.
A mobile phone can be a handy device to have when camping. You can use it to communicate with friends and relatives, and it can also be a great navigation tool. Depending on the campsite, you may be able to get WiFi, so be sure to bring your own earbuds and a case.
It’s always a good idea to carry a flashlight. This is especially true during the dark nights of the year. For example, a full moon might mean that you’ll need a lot of light to get around at night. Having a light will be an asset in your quest to find the perfect campsite.
Another thing to consider is a multi-tool. A hammer and a mallet are both handy tools to have, especially if you’re planning on setting up your own campsite.
A good place to start is with the REI Co-op. This venerable store has been in business since 1938. They’ve recently repackaged their product lineup to include some fun camping gadgets. They’ve even come up with some of their own tricks, like putting an extra layer of petroleum jelly on cotton balls to start a campfire.
Using a hand sanitizer is also a good idea. You’ll need to keep your hands clean, especially if you’re planning on cooking or baking. To clean your hands, you can either swab them with water or use a hand sanitizer. If you don’t have a hand sanitizer, you can bring some biodegradable soap.
There are numerous other small but useful items to have on hand. For instance, you might want to take along a small bottle of shampoo or a travel bottle of hand sanitizer. You’ll want to pack your sunscreen, too, to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. You can also pack some hot water bottles to tuck away in your sleeping bag.
While you’re at it, you might also want to pack a mini bottle of petroleum jelly to soothe chapped lips. You’ll be glad you did when you get back to your tent.