How to Prepare for a Camping Trip

A camping trip can be a lot of fun for the whole family, providing you prepare properly, but be aware that this preparation requires a great deal of thought and a lot of work.  Assuming children will be involved, that will also require special consideration depending on their ages. It is generally considered not a good idea to do rough, or tent, camping with kids under four or five years of age because of their special needs.

Having said that, let’s look at what the most basic requirements will be for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Your first consideration should be an Emergency box that includes a flashlight and batteries for each person.  Headlamps are good for moving around at night and chores like night cooking.  You’ll need wooden matches and a lighter, a battery powered radio and extra batteries, basic tools like Phillips head and slot screw drivers, a hammer and a camp knife. Top that off with a small fire extinguisher, a well stocked first aid kit and a roll of duck tape and you are pretty well prepared for the un-known.

Now, even though you will be roughing it a few basic toiletries are essential.  You will want to pack toothpaste, toothbrushes, bath soap, shampoo, a small metal mirror, toilet paper and a small shovel, and by all means don’t forget the bug repellant, Sunscreen and lip balm with UV protection.

So far so good, but remember the importance of good shelter.  Cheap tents are great for the kids to play with in the back yard, but trust me; they are not for serious camping.  Buy, or either rent, a good quality tent that is large enough to accommodate your family and pack a couple of good quality tarps; one for ground cover under the tent and one for extra cover of your goods.  Make sure you pack any tools or equipment needed to set up your tent.  Then, of course, sleeping bags and blankets are a must.

Last, but not least, is your food supply.  You’ll need lots of it because you tend to eat hardy and snack often while camping.  Here are a few suggestions:  Pack as few perishables as possible.  Fresh meats like hamburger and chicken spoil easily and can be a problem.  Think of things like canned corn beef hash, beef stew, Ravioli, macaroni and cheese, baked beans and soups.  There are all kinds of canned vegetables to choose from, along with cheese, sandwich meat, and hot dogs. You’ll need several coolers with ice and for eating, paper plates and plastic utensils are hard to beat.

For meal preparation, a butane camp stove is much preferred over an open camp fire.  It is safer and much more convenient.  And, for the most important piece of cooking equipment, pack a non stick frying pan.  It makes for even cooking and easy cleanup.

Don't forget to pack your bedding, there is nothing worse than finding you have no way to keep warm at night. While you may not be able to take a duvet with you, you must at least have a decent sleeping bag.

You will no doubt have your own unique method of camping preparation, but I hope this will give you a head start on the basics you’ll need to consider for a safe and fun filled camping trip. Remember to clean up your spot for the next camper coming behind you.

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