When one feels like
stepping away from it all and getting some perspective, camping is
one of the alternative escapes that comes into the mind of the modern
person. The chance to sleep outdoors, conquering the wilderness as
your own, is an aspiration that may have subsisted since childhood.
From school requirements to family vacations, camping has been a
mainstay of our culture. Camping does not have to be as tiring as
going backpacking and sleeping in the woods, roughing it at every
opportunity. A family can just take their SUV with camper in tow to
the nearest camping grounds. This way, you can have all the comforts
of home while eating marshmallows around a fire. However you prefer
your camping trip to go, a degree of preparation will do you some
good.
Before leaving for the great outdoors, a weather check
is in order. No matter how well prepared you are, there is no way you
should be out camping in the middle of a raging storm. Even if the
weather guy foresees clear skies however, you will still need basic
weather protection just in case. Jackets and rain ponchos are must
haves. Your tent ought to also be waterproof. Speaking of which, one
must practice putting up the tent at home, so you can set up quickly
in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. Sleeping bags are of
utter importance as well, because the right one can protect you
against the onslaught of the elements. There are synthetic bags that
can protect you against below zero temperatures, but if you want to
go light, using down filled bags is the way to go. Down bags are best
against extreme cold and can go as light as two pounds, perfect for
family trips and backpacking.
Even if you have your trusty
cell phone, coverage areas are not as trustworthy. In case of medical
emergencies, a first aid kit is essential. Alcohol, gauze pads,
antiseptics, sting and rash lotion, bandages and even a snake bite
kit will help against most situations. Medicine that helps against
allergies, the flu, fever, and body aches can also go a long way. Sun
block is also very important. Aside from melanoma protection, you
wouldn’t want to suffer a sunburn on vacation. You also wouldn’t want
to be scratching yourself all over, so anti-itch and bug lotions are
a must have.
If backpacking is a part of the itinerary,
physical fitness is important. Core, leg, and shoulder training are
essential to avoid hurting yourself. Packing light will also help as
this will keep you nimble and hence less prone to injury. Properly
distributing the weight of your pack will also help with balance,
comfort, and avoidance of blisters. This is also where a lightweight
sleeping bag comes in handy. Maps and compasses are also handy for
getting you home.
Easy to prepare food is best on camping
trips. Sandwiches are great for these trips, as well as healthy
snacks. Energy bars also provide a good source of sustenance in case
of emergencies. Speaking of which, you wouldn’t want to create a
crisis by drinking river water. Bottled water or a water purifier is
very important, as water in the wild can contain bacteria, making it
a health risk.
Your source of nutrients, though, can also pose
unnecessary risk if not stored properly. Keeping food in higher
ground and in air tight containers will keep wild animals from
sniffing around. Proper trash disposal will also help against these
critters, and keep the environment clean. It’s all about being green
these days.
