This year, you might need to give up your overseas trips and crowded beach holidays, but you still don’t have to stay at home and be bored all summer. Consider camping! If this is your first time sleeping in nature, here are a few tips you might want to keep in mind.
Have a trial run
While setting up camp isn’t rocket science, it can be a bit tricky for first-timers. So, instead of fumbling with your tent and stove at the location, make sure to try them out in your backyard. This will show you how much time you’ll need for this task and how to tackle it the right way eliminating a lot of the stress.
Also, as much as possible, schedule your camping on weekdays rather than the weekend. Campsites are usually jam-packed with people during weekends, so you have to know the best time to visit. That way, you can have a more relaxing and peaceful camping trip.
Keep Some Disposable Rubber Gloves Handy
When camping, preparing pairs of rubber gloves like nitrile gloves will always come in handy. You can use them to prepare food, set up your tent, or just to protect your hands when doing camping tasks. But first, what are nitrile gloves?
Nitrile gloves are a type of glove made from high-quality synthetic rubbers, which means that this is 100% latex-free and is safe for those prone to allergic reactions. These are also way more durable and puncture-resistant than the usual latex gloves, making them ideal in any camping activity. You don’t have to worry about getting wounded when setting up the tent or making a campfire because it can keep your hands protected from the pressure.
Despite not being as elastic as other latex gloves, nitrile gloves are notable for their lower resistance to friction. They’re gentler to the skin, so you can wear them or take them off as often as you need without scraping the surface of your skin.
Also, if you’re camping near a fishing site and planning to fish, nitrile gloves can keep your hands comfortable. Since you’re fishing, the gloves you use will be wet, which can be uncomfortable. Fortunately, these gloves can withstand permeation better than other types of gloves and are less likely to absorb water, making them perfect for this activity.
Plan meals in advance
Sit down and try to plan your meals for every day. This will help with your shopping and cooking utensil packing and reduce confusion once you arrive at your camping ground. If you want to have a good old BBQ session, there are portable pellet grills you can bring to the campsite. You can then cook chicken, pork, fish, or veggies. A Kamado grill is one of the best ceramic grills on the market today.
Add plenty of snacks to your grocery list as well. Think of something that won’t perish like crisps, nuts, granola bars, and dried fruit.
If you’re camping with kids, these will come in handy since kids can get super impatient when it comes to food.
Buy a good cooler box
Your average cool box won’t keep your food cold for the day, so you’ll need something more serious like a pro passive cooler. These bad boys will keep ice for up to five days without using electricity! If your camping ground has an electric hookup, you might even consider investing in an electric cool box.
Bring some fire with you
You might think “There’s no way someone will forget a lighter” but it happens too often, especially if all camping-party members are non-smokers. So, make sure to put a refillable Zippo lighter at the top of your packing list. These are reliable, durable, and essential for easy fire-making, so have one close at all times.
If you don’t know how to make the fire for cooking or keeping warm, search the Internet for fool-proof tips.
Invest in a good sleeping bag
You probably spent hours on tent research, but what about your sleeping bag? Many people just choose the cheapest one and think their tent will keep them comfy, but a good sleeping bag makes the world of difference. Investing in a decent 3 season sleeping bag will keep you warm and cozy no matter the weather.
Bring some light
Flashlights are practical and easy to carry, but lanterns are a must light source for every camp. They keep your hands free and illuminate your entire camp boosting safety and practicality. However, a handheld torch is still necessary for safe night toilet trips.
Charge your devices
While you should try your best to detox from electronics during your nature retreat, you will need to have your phone charged. Your phone can provide you with everything from emergency contacts and navigation to music and photography, so it’s best to keep it operational. Having a good power bank or a solar charger will definitely come in handy for longer camping trips.
Think about your health
No matter how careful you are, nature can be unforgiving, so it’s best to come prepared with a well-equipped first-aid kit. Make sure to have plenty of band-aids and disinfectants for cuts. If you’re camping with pets, there are ready-to-buy human+pet first-aid kids that might come in handy.
Pack extra necessities
Every trip is unpredictable, so make sure to pack some extra necessities. If you get stranded or just want to prolong your camping experience for a little while, you’ll be glad you packed some extra food, drink, clothing, and fuel.
No matter if you’re cooking on wood or if you’re using butane gas canisters, pack ample supplies, especially if your campsite doesn’t have a camp shop where you can buy supplies.
Forget about staycations and spend some time outdoors in fresh air and sunshine. Organize your camping trip with these tips in mind and you’ll ensure you have a fun and safe outing.
