If you plan to make camping adventures a lifelong pursuit, the following 10 tips will help you prepare well and ensure your safety if you get lost in the wild. Whether you're spending your holiday at home or venturing along the Appalachian Trail, no matter your level of camping experience, these points are worth noting.
Find or Build Shelter Before Dark
One of the most important camping tips is to set up camp before nightfall. You can choose the type of shelter you prefer—whether it’s a tent, RV, or cabin. Some adventurers opt to sleep under the stars using just a simple hammock. If that sounds too rough, consider bringing a tent for your camping adventure. Though tents are the most basic form of shelter, they can be quite comfortable with proper preparation. It’s best to consult a salesperson at an outdoor store to find a tent that suits your needs, taking into account size, shape, and weight. Remember: bigger isn’t always better—after all, you’ll have to carry it to the campsite. Test your tent at home beforehand to check for any issues so you won’t run into trouble while camping. Bring spare tent poles just in case, as they can break unexpectedly. Open a window or leave a couple of small vents open at night to prevent excessive moisture inside the tent. Carry an old shower curtain (slightly smaller than your tent floor) so you can lay it down to keep the ground dry if it rains.
Choose the Right Sleeping Bag for the Season
The most important tip related to sleeping bags is to choose one suitable for the season. In warmer months, go for a lightweight sleeping bag, but in winter, you’ll need one that can withstand low temperatures. Choose a bag rated for a range of temperatures that will keep you warm and comfortable, and aim for a rating slightly lower than the temperatures you expect on your trip, just in case it gets colder. For sleeping in a tent, opt for a mummy-shaped sleeping bag. These bags wrap snugly around your feet and retain body heat, and they’re also easy to carry. In terms of material, synthetic sleeping bags dry faster than down ones and are less likely to cause allergies. However, goose down bags are lightweight and easy to carry.
To improve your sleeping comfort, place a pad under your sleeping bag. You don’t need to bring a pillow—use a durable plastic bag, inflate it, and use it as a makeshift pillow under your head.
Bring Only Essential Food
No camping guide is complete without tips on food and water. Whether your trip involves risks like hiking or kayaking, or you’re simply relaxing in an RV watching DVDs, you’ll need food. A good rule of thumb is to pack only the food you’ll actually need for each meal. For example, if you’re traveling with a small group, bring two cups of instant cereal instead of a whole canister of oatmeal. Use sealed plastic bags to mix and store your food. If you’re camping near an RV or car, use a cooler to store perishable items like meat, keeping them from spoiling.
Ensuring access to clean water is one of the most fundamental camping skills. Unless you can source clean drinking water yourself or know of safe natural springs, it’s best to bring bottled water. Alternatively, carry a small packet of iodine to purify water from the wild or potentially unsafe sources. You can also filter the cleanest water you can find or boil it for at least ten minutes. Additionally, wrap your cup in aluminum foil to help cool the water more quickly.