Although Pulitzer Prize winning author and columnist Dave Berry calls camping “nature’s way of promoting the motel business,” outdoor camping is enjoyed year round by families and outdoor enthusiasts. While that first camping trip can be daunting, a little bit of planning and thinking ahead help the trip to go smoothly.
Camp Site Tips
Think carefully about the campsite where you intend to pitch your tent or park your RV. Look for level ground that is free of rocks. Consider the climate and season. In cool weather, choose a site that gets as much sun as possible, and go for the shade in the warmth of summer. Make sure there are no active ant farms or other insect colonies in the area, and no standing water that can attract mosquitoes. Place a tarp underneath and stake one over your tent to help keep it waterproof in case of rain. Although you do not want to situate your tent under a single tree in case of lightning, you do want to be near large trees so you can set up a clothesline to dry clothes, and a sling to get your food off the ground at night. Make sure to stake your tent down securely, and place large rocks over the stakes for extra security.
Food Tips
Plan your food and menu in advance of your trip. Go for meals that are simple, like grilled meat and canned beans. Pack perishables in tightly sealed coolers filled with plenty of ice, and add fresh ice frequently if it is available. Store nonperishable foods in tightly air-tight containers. For added security, place the containers inside of a sealable bag. Sweep the campsite after meals for any food that may have fallen on the ground that might attract insects or wild animals. Wash dishes and pots immediately, and put your cooler and other foods in a secure place like your car or hanging from a tree branch at least ten feet in the air. Get rid of all garbage as soon as possible. If there is no nearby dump station, seal the garbage in bags and place in your vehicle.
Equipment Tips
There is more equipment needed for camping than a tent and a sleeping bag. Never assume a grill is available, and bring a grate to place over the fire for cooking. Simple things can make you feel like you are living in the lap of luxury like a portable shower, a solar bag that creates hot water for washing dishes, comfortable beach chairs for relaxing around the fire, plenty of clothes, rain ponchos and a battery-operated fan for warm climates. Do not forget to bring wooden matches sealed in a waterproof plastic bag, several lengths of rope, extra batteries that fit the flashlights you are bringing, a utility knife, plenty of garbage bags, and games and other activities to keep the children busy. Things can go wrong when least expected, so be sure to always bring basic emergency supplies including a mirror for signaling, a first aid kit, simple fishing equipment and area maps.
About this Author
After attending Fairfield University, Hannah Wickford spent more than 15 years in market research and marketing in the consumer packaged goods industry. In 2003, she decided to shift careers and now maintains three successful food-related blogs and writes online articles, website copy and newsletters for multiple clients including Trails, Travels and Golflink.
