Camping Guide For Families

July 29th, 2010 Posted in Outdoors

Camping can be a great way to spend quality time with family and friends. There are endless activities that you can participate in while camping. Packing thoroughly before starting your trip can make for a smooth, drama-free camping experience. There are a few essentials that any camper can’t go without.

One thing that is certain on any trip is food. You will have to eat while in the great outdoors and, depending on your destination, there may not be many dining options. You will need to pack the staples and see if there is room for the luxurious food items.

•    Water is a must. Be sure that you have enough bottled water to sustain the entire group in case of an emergency.
•    Raw foods are great. They won’t spoil. Freeze dried meats and other types of foods can be purchased at camping specialty stores. 
•    Pack lots of snacks like chips and nuts. Trail mix can be great for energy as well as the munchies.

Decide on your sleeping arrangements. If you are taking a tent set it up in your backyard before you leave. The last thing you want to do is get to a camp ground and find out that your tent doesn’t stand up. Bring sleeping bags and blankets for everyone. It may not seem cold at home, but the great outdoors can get chilly at night regardless of where you camp.
Repellent, repellent, repellent! Don’t let the bugs eat you alive. If there is room you may also want to bring something like a citronella candle or lantern for the camp site. These candles repel bugs from far away. A first aid kit should also be at the top of the list. You never know what may happen while embarking on such rugged terrain.

Winter camping can present you with additional inconveniences as you head outdoors. Prepare for it to be colder than you can imagine. Double up on clothing and blankets. Bring water resistant out clothes to keep your clothes from absorbing water. Pack an ice ax. You never know what may freeze at night. Last but not least, be sure to pack enough waterproof bags. You will end up putting everything that you want to keep dry in these.

Just to remind you, these are only the necessities. You will want to bring other stuff and that is perfectly fine. Music, books and equipment for activities can take your trip to the next level. This is a different story if you are backpacking because you can only take what you can carry.
Whatever the case, camping is an activity that depends on what you make it. If you can survive with the bare necessities then more power to you! If you need some of the comforts of home don’t be afraid to tote them along. Lifelong memories are made as you go camping, be sure to bring a camera to capture all those. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the time with the ones you love!