Where can I go glamping in the US?
Camping has become a popular pastime, thanks in part to all the reality shows depicting outdoor activities. If you want to spend some time outside for fun and relaxation, keep reading for how to do it right.
Choose a sleeping bag that is seasonally appropriate. By bringing a winter sleeping bag in the summer you may end up sweating instead of sleeping. On the other hand, light-weight sleeping supplies will never keep you warm enough in the dead of winter. Using a lighter sleeping bag in the winter could actually lead to you developing hypothermia.
To increase your sleeping experience while camping, bring a pad along that you can place under your sleeping bag. This pad acts as a barrier between you and the hard ground where twigs and tree knots may cause strange sleeping conditions. If a pad isn't handy, bring a few extra blankets that you can fold over on themselves to create some cushion.
Don't worry about over-packing for the kids. Camping can get very messy and dirty when you bring your children. Kids love to play in the dirt and will bring it back to your tent. Therefore, you will need to understand that a clean trip is probably out of the question. Take extra clothing with you for your children. There is nothing like being prepared!
When you go camping, be sure to wear closed-toe shoes. Walking in wooded areas, you can come across almost anything; not to mention things can fall on your feet. You may also want to take a hike. So the next time you go out camping, make sure to wear shoes that can go everywhere you want to go.
Bring supplies for 'Smores. 'Smores are an integral part of any camping trip. Simply pack graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows. Toast the marshmallows, then make it the filling to a graham cracker/chocolate sandwich. When you have a 'Smore, you will want 'some more'--bring enough for everyone to have at least two of them!
Bring your cellphone with you when you go camping. Even if you are serious about roughing it, cell phones are still very useful in emergencies and should not be left at home. A cell phone is no longer a hobby, and when you go camping it can help you reach police and emergency personnel--bring it.
When planning for your camping trip, don't forget to pack the sunscreen. Just because you are not on the beach doesn't mean that you don't need protection from the sun's burning rays. A sport sunscreen can be a smart choice if you will be doing strenuous physical activities during your trip.
Let people know where your group is headed. Just in case anything happens to any of you, you want to know that there are people who know where you are at. This is a good precautionary measure to take if something were to happen to your camping group, because help will be on the way soon.
Avoid severe weather when going camping, and pay attention to forecasts. It is horrible trying to pitch a tent in the rain, and not much fun sitting in a tent during a rainstorm. It is equally as disturbing approaching a muddy campsite and trying to make a weekend out of it.
Any time you go camping, do not forget to bring a first-aid kit along with you. Since accidents can happen at any time, a first-aid kit is a very valuable asset to possess. Be sure to include topical creams for bug bites, sun burns and poison ivy when putting your kit together.
You need duct tape because it is a versatile, handy tool. Just as it has myriad uses around the house, you can use it for a variety of needs in the woods, too. You can slap a piece of it on a leaking air mattress. You can also use it to patch up a tent, tarp or sleeping bag. Prior to heading off on a long nature hike, place some tape on your heels to avoid blistering. This can also be used for injuries when you do not have a regular doctor around.
Learn how to pitch your tent ahead of time. First-time tent pitching can take time, and you may get frustrated if your first how to build a tent platform time is at the actual campsite. If you practice doing this ahead of time, it will be a breeze to do once you get to your destination.
If you don't like to drink water, you will be in real trouble on a long camping trip. Water is essential to staying hydrated, so if you really hate the taste, purchase some one-use lemonade and add it to bottles of water. This will keep you hydrated throughout your adventure.
Zip-lock bags can be very handy in a camper's tool chest. Don't worry about hauling mixing bowls in your gear. A gallon size zip-lock bag is great for mixing foods together and is much easier to carry in your pack. Just secure the top of the bag very carefully, then squeeze, knead or shake the ingredients together. Then discard for super-easy cleanup too!
You should leave your car or basecamp with a cell phone that's fully charged. The best idea is to bring a couple of extra batteries to maintain your phone. Your cell phone is the best piece of emergency equipment you have so make sure it doesn't die on you.
Toilet paper is one of the essential items that you need while camping. If there are no restrooms in your area, you will need to go out in nature. You do not want to use leaves to wipe yourself, as they may contain poison ivy, so take your toilet paper with you.
Make sure your tent remains dry and properly ventilated. If your tent is thoroughly sealed, perspiration and breathing can build condensation throughout your whole tent. No one wants to wake up in a moist atmosphere, as this could make you very uncomfortable. Tents sometimes have vents that are built in or windows that can be opened to prevent the build up of moisture.
Once you know what you are doing, it is a lot easier to have fun on your next camping trip. By arming yourself with some basic advice, you can avoid common mistakes and just focus on enjoying yourself. Just remember the tips from this article to have a great time camping.