Camping conjures up images of a tent pitched on a wide open plain near a willow tree or on the bank of a babbling brook. Many families enjoy getting away and reveling in the great outdoors, circling the campfire while singing songs and watching meat sizzling on a stick. Getting away from modern civilization is a great way to spend a holiday and get reacquainted with Mother Nature. Not only is camping far more economical than staying in a hotel, it is ideal for families with small children. No worrying about dress codes or trying to keep the kids quiet, mother Nature won’t shush them or frown upon their outfits. The following checklist can help you plan the perfect trip.
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Use this list!- Preparation
- Location. Know what kind of environment you like. Do you like solitude or a family camp site? Reservations. Some campsites require booking; in other cases, get a permit to pitch your tent in a more rural setting.
- Experience. Practice setting up your tent if you have the space for it. Setting up a tent is not as easy as it looks!
- Back-up plan. If your tent collapses in a sudden storm, know where the nearest motel is and have cash to see you through!
- Gear / Equipment
- Buy a tent. Select a weatherproof tent to suit your or your families' needs.
- Air mattresses or sleeping bags. Sleeping on the grass can be comfortable, but can also be tough on your back and hips. A little comfort is acceptable.
- An air pump. You don't want to have to fill up those air mattresses with your lungs.
- A camping stove. This should have at least two burners and a gas bottle. Whether you shop for food or catch it yourself, you'll have to cook it.
- A folding table and chairs (optional). If you are planning on having your meals on a blanket, that's cool, too.
- Dishes. It's okay to be a little civilized.
- A lantern. Practical and romantic as well as a must have for 'bathroom breaks'.
- A cooler and ice packs. You'll need to keep your groceries cool and away from bugs and insects.
- Things to Pack
- Photo ID. You never know what's gonna happen and you want some form of identification on you with contact information.
- Sunscreen. Being outdoors all day, your skin will need protection.
- Warm clothes. Even in summer the evenings can be chilly.
- First Aid. A couple of Band-Aids and bandages don't take up much space. It's better to have them and not need them, then to need them and not have them.
- A deck of cards or a board game. Just in case there is a rainy day, you want some form of entertainment
- Communication. If you have a way of charging your cell phone, bring it with you. Just in case.
- A camera. You will want to preserve some memories.
- Safety Tips
- Stove safety. Put your cooking stove away from your tent. Tent material catches fire very easily.
- Lantern safety. Extinguish your lantern before going to bed. Soft light may be romantic but a flame can turn into an inferno in no time.
- Wilderness safety. Familiarize yourself with poisonous plants, snakes and spiders.
get reacquainted with Mother Nature. Camping can be a time for relaxation, for grass underfoot instead of concrete, and to be surrounded with the patter of animal feet instead of the roar of urban traffic. Leave the iPods, cell phones and laptops at home, and enjoy the experience technology free.
Camping can also be a romantic getaway. Everyday life with its responsibilities and stress can put a damper on any relationship. Having an outdoor adventure can rekindle the spark between couples and make for some unforgettable memories. Others camp alone to commune with nature or ‘find themselves’. When surrounded by the beauty of nature, nerves are calmed, the soul is soothed and inner peace restored. The sky, sun, moon and stars can bring a feeling of joy and relaxation unmatched by any spa!
Camping means expecting the unexpected, however, so don’t forget to let someone know where you are going and for how long; pack the right stuff, and have a back-up plan in case the weather forecast turns ugly!
