emmett travel

It may surprise you to learn that there are different kinds of family camping you can embark on – all within budget and all facilitating the family experience. Build relationships and create lasting memories for families of all ages.

This article has been created to help you find your ultimate, unforgettable, family camping vacation – custom tailored to suit your family’s interests, fit within your budget, and match your available time.

Exploring the Great Outdoors

Camping gives everyone the chance to experience wildlife and nature firsthand. Campers might engage in hunting, fishing, plant study, swimming, canoeing or kayaking, nature photography and wildlife observation.

Camping delivers many physical benefits to every member of your family as well due to a person’s involvement in outdoor activities. According to long-time camping enthusiasts, this type of family vacation imparts confidence in children while challenging adults to step out of their sedentary lives and comfort zone when in unfamiliar territories.

Exercise for the Whole Family – Outdoors

A family hike is becoming more popular with campers of all ages. Anyone capable of walking long distances can certainly do this – no matter the pace. A day hikers’ objective is to hike or walk for the day and return to the campsite that same day, usually well before dark.

As well as the capability of walking long distances, you want to be prepared for any possible weather conditions and pack your rucksack with the right tools to ensure you can find the way back to your campsite.

A day’s walk requires the correct footwear. Comfortable as well as functional for the terrain. Purchase footwear designed specifically for a day of hiking for seasonal temperatures. Never purchase footwear solely based on how good they look and be sure to break them in for a week before you take off on a full day hike.

A Little More Rigorous? How About A Backpacking Camping Adventure?

• Backpacking is generally the most exciting and basic way to experiencing a wilderness adventure.
• Backpacking adds new excitement and elements to any hiking experience because it extends your visit in the backwoods. You may travel far into the wilderness because you are not obliged to go back to your campsite at the day’s end.
• Backpacking is simply exploring on foot beautiful and wild country, being self-sufficient, while hiking with camping essentials in a comfortable backpack and set camp mostly in undeveloped and primitive areas.

Put simply, backpacking entails having to carry a pack of essential camping supplies on your “back.” The longer your trip, the more supplies you carry. What you will be taking along with you as well as how distant you will hike actually depends on you.

Preparing for your backpacking trip involves assembling, selecting and packing supplies and gear that you need and want to bring along with you.

Selecting your backpacking gear is very significant so as to have a successful trip. Excessive gear or specifically the wrong kind of backpacking gear can bring about an extremely heavy weight load that will spoil your hike.

Likewise, incorrect or too little gear will result in discomfort and under certain conditions, may even be dangerous.

The internet is filled with stores specifically devoted to backpacking supplies and gear as well as information. Studying your backpacking gear will enable you to purchase the right gear that you need.

The selections for backpacking gear are always evolving. Do a little research to discover which one best suits your backpacking requirements.

Backpacking equipment generally costs more compared to tent camping, however much less compared to RV camping. Take note that you will save on backpacker’s campsites fees though.

Different Styles of ‘Roughing It’ – Your Vacation Home

Will you camp in the open? In a tent? Or in an RV trailer? Will you set up your home away from home in a camper’s park or in a secluded forest? A national park or the back lot of your acreage? There are many possibilities.

How About Travel by RV?

RV stands for Recreational Vehicle. RV campers embrace the liberty of traveling on their own schedule and are able to camp in different places (often for a day or two at a time) while not sacrificing any modern comforts and conveniences.

An RV is comparable to a small cabin, only it is on wheels. They usually come with a heater, oven, small refrigerator, stall shower, beds, a toilet, and 12-volt electrical power. Televisions, microwaves and other appliances may or may not be in an RV.

According to many RVrs, they enjoy their cabin on wheels because they are always packed and ready-to-go at a moment’s notice. These types of campers also enjoy the cooking, bathing and sleeping convenience the vehicle offers while in a distant or remote area.

If you have never experienced camping in an RV but are thinking of purchasing one, I suggest renting an RV first to know if the RV vacation lifestyle suits you and your family.

Camping with Tents

Tent camping usually attracts families with children because children are primarily the ones that enjoy it the most and because it is rugged and inexpensive.

Tent camping employs a vehicle to transport camping equipment to any established campground that offers full amenities and allow direct car access.

Whatever type you choose, with safety in mind, camping is sure to be a fun filled experience the whole family will love and will look forward to every season.

Summer, Winter, Spring or Fall – Go Camping Year ‘Round!

Different camping seasons impart different experiences and memories. While almost everyone has had at least one summer camping trip, not many have had the experience of winter camping. A lot more fun than it sounds, this can be the trip of a lifetime if you are prepared for harsh weather. Summer, Winter, Fall, and Spring offer many different and exciting challenges unique to every season.

Summer Camping

The summer is the most popular season for campers because the weather is dry and warm and activities are abundant. Campsites are understandably more crowded during the summer so you might want to consider a National Park (more space between campsites) if you want more privacy. Eithe way, plan ahead and make reservations. Arrive early to choose the better camp sites at the parks.

Winter Camping

Some families find that winter camping is more fun and relaxing than camping in the summer months – after the first time. More challenging to the seasoned camper, winter camping requires a strength of spirit, determination, and courage that summer camping does not.

Winter camping gives all members of your family a confidence boost as they realize that you actually can aspire to the preparedness and ingenuity this type of outdoor adventure requires for survival and success.

It isn’t all about the challenge however. There are many advantages to camping during winter; no snakes, bugs, flies, bears, dust or mosquitoes, plus winter wilderness view is breathtaking. Furthermore, campgrounds during winter will most likely be quiet, empty and normally cheap.

Activities include snowmobiling, snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and many other hearty challenges.

Just note however, that a lack of preparation and proper supplies bring dangers that everyone in your camp needs to be aware of such as large quantities of snow falling from overhead trees. avalanches, severe weather conditions, ice dangers and more. With good planning you can enjoy the slower pace of winter camping.

Here are my six top tips about winter camping:

1. Drink plenty of water to fight or avoid hypothermia because water effectively replaces all the moisture that was expelled from the body due to constant heavy breathing. Just drink water even when you feel you are not thirsty. The recommendation is one gallon of water a day.
2. At signs of an approaching storm, immediately put your rain gear on. Should you get wet, change right away to warm and dry clothing. Moist clothes will quickly suck heat from your body.
3. Remember to pace yourself in all activities during all times of the day.
4. Do more physical tasks than you would at home. Movement generates body heat.
5. Following tips 1-4 and wearing clothing layers, especially clothing that is polyurethane foam insulated, will help you prevent frostbite.
6. Always listen and take notice of your body’s reactions. When you start to shiver, immediately take action to warm yourself before uncontrollable shaking and numbness sets in.

And remember, hypothermia occurs mostly in windy and wet weather with temperature ranging from 30-50 degrees F. It is wise to eat a lot of complex carbohydrates and to avoid food rich in sugar and starches.

Fall Camping

Fall camping is catching on among family campers. The beauty of nature during the fall season is indeed captivating. This is also the best time of year for day hikes.

With lesser crowds and no insects to bother you, fall camping can be perfect. However, during this season some of the standard camp ground amenities such as showers and washrooms might not be offered. If you can settle on remote fall camping or roughing it a bit, pack your warm clothes and enjoy the autumn months.

Spring Camping

Spring is the season of transition; snow is now melting away and it is time to go back outdoors and see nature after that cold and long winter.

A great time of year for campers with a desire to fish, north bound anglers are eager to camp at this time as small mouth bass and walleye are both spawning; ducks are returning to the marshlands and if hunting season is open some go hunting.

Plus spring camping offers similar activities to summer camping, without the crowds. Hike, swim, canoe or kayak, fish, and observe nature.

Remember that whatever the season, while you are camping you are dealing and co-existing with local wildlife. Learn and apply your basic survival skills when the situation calls for it. Stay alert and be prepared at all times.

Choosing A Tent

An essential piece of equipment, your outdoor camping enjoyment is largely dependent on the quality and size of your tent. Precisely why there is a huge quantity to choose from.

The first and simplest decision to make is based on the tent dimension required.

Tents are constructed and classified by the specific number of individuals. A solo backpacker will be looking for a tent that is much smaller than a family of campers that require a roomier tent.

Almost all tents are labeled with description and their capacity which indicates how many individuals the tent can hold comfortably.

Unless you are intent on having a collection of tents in different capacity or sizes, it is wise that you establish the largest number of individuals you believe will sleep in the tent.

If you normally backpack with a companion but this summer you are going solo, it would be prudent to purchase a two-man tent.

Basically, there are four tent components: namely the poles, tent body, rain fly and the tarp which is some kind of footprint or ground cloth to extend your tent’s floor life.

Nine guidelines in choosing the best tent for your camping needs:

1. Consider your needs. Know your particular camping requirements, such as where do you mostly go camping, at what season and would you be backpacking? And how many are you. These answers can give you a clear idea of what type of tent you will need.
2. Set your budget. When you allocate a budget before you go looking for a tent, most likely, you will not overspend.
3. Tent weight and size. How many individuals will be sleeping in the tent? The size of your tent will not really matter should you go “car camping”; however, if your intention is backpacking, then consider a “light-weight” tent.
4. Tent features. Today, there tent manufacturers offering a lot of features for their tents. Mesh panels allow the breeze go in your tent at the same time keep the mosquitoes and bugs out, “shock-corded” tent poles allow speedy setup, waterproof and flame resistant for safety, a rain fly for added rain protection, etc. Make certain you choose the tent that best caters to all your basic requirements.
5. Make certain that you select a durable fabric tent. It will cost you more money, however this is definitely an area worth it.
6. Select the proper tent color. Inspect how the color of the tent transmits light well into the interior. Certain colors generate a brighter interior, whereas others create a cave-like and dreary ambience. Take note that light colors are best for summer camping since they tend to be cooler whereas dark colors are able to absorb solar energy so that they are great when camping in cold weather.
7. Check the tent’s coating. Remember that you must see a waterproof and shiny coating inside the floor and rain fly. If this is not visible or you can not feel this on the tent’s fabric, than it is not thick enough to withstand heavy use.
8. Know that tents used in the summer are very different compared to camping in the snow. Almost all tents available on the market have weather ratings. Make sure that you purchase a tent specifically made for a particular weather condition or season that you will be out camping.
9. Tent manufacturers. Various tent manufacturers have their unique design and name. Some are identified to make inexpensive tents, while others are well recognized to make high quality but expensive tents. Popular tent makers are Coleman, Wenger, Eddie Bauer and Greatland Tents. Choose a tent manufacturer that has been trusted for years.

While in the forest or wilderness the wrong camping equipment may not kill you, it can send you packing off to a motel and cause you to regret having planned a family campout.

For that well-planned and enjoyable camping vacation, take your time when you purchase your tent.

Remember, it will be your home for a few days. Having the right tent will keep you comfortable and warm especially on rainy and cold nights.

How to pick the best backpack

“…just a bag…,” that’s what most inexperienced campers say.

Unknown to these campers are that the choice of bag is no trivial matter. You will never appreciate how a good backpack can benefit your hike, trek or camping experience until you try going on a major one using an ill-fitting or ill-suited pack.

Take for example the experience of a trekker who went on a trip to the Appalachians in 1994. Instead of an exhilarating camp experience, he had to go home broken and bleeding from the weight of an ill-fitting pack damaging his hips. A decade later – a lot wiser and experienced – this hiker, accompanied by a better fitting pack, made 960 miles of terrain. Far more successful than having a trip cut short due to terrible equipment.

Now you know how important a good pack is, here are a few tips to help you choose a good pack for the journey that lies ahead:

Three Tips to Choosing the Right Camping Backpack

1. Know what you need – hikers and campers vary sharply in camping preferences, some are very minimalist in nature and take only the bare essentials. Others take a lot more equipment on their trips. The amount and type of equipment you bring will definitely shape the decision you make towards what backpack you will need.
   You can then do some simple computation on your space needs. Most capable sales representatives can give you the amount of space their bags offer. When doing this try using the measurement for the amount of equipment you take for the longest trip you expect to go on.
2. Is it comfortable – this is probably the most important consideration when choosing a backpack. The goal of every good camping bag is to help campers carry the most amount of weight with the least amount of effort – and inconvenience for that matter.

   Good packs distribute weight efficiently, allowing you maximum comfort when carrying the pack. To know how well a pack does this, you will have to test the pack itself. Most camp stores will have sand weights to place in the pack so that you can test how the pack holds up to the weight. You will have to carefully consider how comfortable these packs are before even considering them for purchase.

   A rule of thumb to remember is that the shoulder straps should carry about 30% of the weight, while the hips – being a lot more stable should carry about 70% of the weight. When testing the pack, make sure the shoulder straps are not uncomfortable or restrictive. Try moving around in them to see how much mobility the backpack gives you.

   Most packs also have a sternum strap. These straps help stabilize the backpack. Sternum straps should be positioned below the collarbone to ensure comfort and stability.

   The hip belts on the other hand should not constrict your breathing, nor should they be too thick that they reduce your mobility. Designs always vary and backpack companies are always heralding a ‘new and improved’ technology for campers to try out. The only way to really know if these new bags work is for you to try them out.

3. Choose your frame – there are two types of frames to choose from – internal and external. Internal frames are slimmer and hug your body closer, making them ideal for hard trails since they are so maneuverable and do not restrain mobility. They are a bit harder to load though. External framed backpacks are great for beginners on easy trails since they are easier to pack. However, they are a bit stiffer and may restrict mobility. It’s the best type of backpack for children and beginners though.
4. Extras – when purchasing backpacks consider whether the pack is compatible with weather sheets to protect your pack against the elements. Also consider how attachments can be adapted for your pack. Most packs have rings and snap-on pieces that allow for accessories to integrate with your pack.

In the end, a good pack is almost synonymous with a great trek. Choosing a good pack will definitely enhance your camping experience tenfold. Choose carefully, since your backpack will probably be your most trusted companion on all of your camping trips.

The Best Sleeping Bag, Ever!

One of the biggest challenges to being on a camping trip is getting a good night’s sleep. Being out in the woods on the trail will certainly expose you to nature’s worst. While you shelter yourself against the elements with a good tent, only a proper sleeping bag will help give you a good night’s rest to power you up for the next day of activities.

While finding a perfect sleeping bag is virtually impossible, it is however, possible to find a bag that will keep you comfortable for most trips.

Sleep with Comfort Even on the Road – A Camper’s Guide to Sleeping Bags

When choosing a sleeping bag, take careful note of your needs. You will have to cater your choice of sleeping bags to the trips you most often make. Also, careful knowledge of the available types of sleeping bags will help you make a good decision regarding a sleeping bag.

The greatest issue when choosing a sleeping bag is whether to purchase a down or synthetic fill sleeping bag. Nothing provides comfort and warmth like down, and down is generally recommended for most outdoor camping trips with the family. However, in the event that it rains and your down-filled sleeping bags get wet, it is going to take forever to get your sleeping bags dry. Synthetic fill bags, on the other hand, give good warmth and dry quickly if ever they get wet. They are a bit heavier in comparison, though.

If your needs revolve around general purpose camping trips, you will want to purchase a three-season sleeping bag. These bags generally have a temperature-comfort rating of 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are a more specialized camper – for instance if you like going camping on specific seasons – you will want to purchase a bag that caters to that season. If you like camping during the cooler seasons, go for sleeping bags that offer more warmth – and if you need a bag for warmer climes, go for breathable bags that keep you cool even during the hot seasons.

Check the bag before purchasing, they will usually have a temperature rating guide so that you can choose the bag suited to your needs. Most winter sleeping gear should be rated for minus 15 to 40 Fahrenheit, while summer sleeping bags should hold up to the 10 to 20 degree Fahrenheit rating.

Here are few things you should look for in a good sleeping bag…

• Material – Most sleeping bags will be made of nylon, or polyester. These are the best kinds of material for sleeping bags. If you are a serious backpacker, try to avoid cotton material – especially the printed ones. If you are taking kids along, you will probably have to concede this point.

  For added comfort while sleeping, look for bags that have a lining of taffeta or other non-cotton material. These materials, in comparison to plain nylon or even some cotton lining, are more comfortable, breathe better, and warm quicker.

• Shape – The mummy shaped sleeping bag is pretty popular nowadays, however, some people find them constricting, especially those that want a lot of space to wiggle around in while sleeping. Mummy shaped bags tend to be snug and comfortable for some people, plus they warm quicker. Rectangular and semi-rectangular bags are great if you want a larger space to sleep in.
• Accessories and zippers – Make sure the zippers are double-sided and allows for opening on both ends without any hassle. You may want to look out for zipper hooks as well, which prevent the bags from inadvertently opening up accidentally. Also look for insulated draft collars that help seal in the heat around the shoulders and around the neck. Plus, dark colored bags are advisable since they absorb more heat and are easier to dry out than their lighter colored counterparts.

While all these tips come in handy, you may still want to test the bag itself to see if it fits your lifestyle. Some stores will allow you to test their products before selling them to you. If this is the case, don’t hesitate to jump into a bag to try it out.

With a good sleeping bag, you can look forward to more comfortable nights on your camping trips.

Building Campfires and Setting Up Your Campsite

Building a good fire for your camping trip isn’t just a fancy party trick to impress your fellow campers. Most camping gear today makes traditional campfire building look paltry and tedious, knowing how to build a proper camp fire can spell the difference between life and death in extreme circumstances.

In the older, simpler, and less complicated days, when matches and gas torches were but luxuries, building a proper camp fire was essential to any outdoor activity. This was where everyone sought warmth against the cold environs, and where people found the means to cook a warm dinner for everyone. Night temperatures can be very unforgiving, and camp fires provided a means for everyone to gather around and warm up.

Aside from the heat, camp fires also repelled wild animals. Wild dogs, lions and other beasts are not keen to approach a campfire. That is why camp fires are always left burning well into the night.

While the art of making campfires has been all but forgotten (unless you’re planning on going on the hit TV series Survivor) campfire making as a skill is still relevant and essential to any camper’s repertoire of tricks.

First of all, the secret to starting camp fires is to start them quickly. You can only do this if you have a firm grasp of what is needed to start a fire – heat, oxygen, and fuel.

Oxygen, while around us, is not always readily available to the campfire, you may have to arrange the fuel in such a way that it has adequate air supply. You may also supplement this supply by blowing into a cinder, or fanning an already blossoming flame.

Heat is usually generated for campfires by friction. You will probably use an assortment of methods to generate this heat – rubbing two sticks together, using flint stones, and other techniques. However, this won’t give you a glorious fan of flames if you don’t have the right fuel.

Fuel is what keeps your fire burning, and finding the right type of fuel is integral to your efforts at building and maintaining a fire. Building a fire by applying the heat to the logs isn’t going to work. You will need tinder. Tinder is easily combustible materials that will burn quickly and hopefully emit enough heat and gases to start a fire with larger pieces of wood.

Ideal tinder includes dry sticks, bark, dry leaves, and twigs. Use this kindling to start the fire and to help maintain it. But remember that you can only successfully build a fire if the larger, harder to burn pieces of wood burn.

Some common designs of campfires include:

• The Tepee: Tepees are great for quick fires, and last long into the night. It makes use of a lot of tinder, so you will need a good bunch of it. The longer burning wood is placed, balanced against each other vertically around the tinder. This makes sure that the heat and the gases of the tinder are generated in a way to help the larger pieces of wood to burn. It is the perfect fire for boiling water and general purpose campfires.
• The Pyramid: You build a ‘pyramid’ of logs by laying the logs horizontally on the ground together, then building another layer on top of the next gradually forming a pyramid. Although this type of campfire is a little hard to start up, the advantage of such is that it generates a lot of charcoal that will be useful in the future. It burn pretty well and is quite a stable fire.
• The Parallel: The parallel fire puts the tinder in between two logs. This is an efficient burning fire since the insides of the log burn too – having the fire and heat going in a good, snug place between two logs.
• The Star (Indian): This is the type of fire you usually see on those old Western movies. The logs are laid out like spokes of a wheel. Tinder is placed in the middle. The fire is easy to maintain, although you do have to push each ‘spoke’ of the wheel towards the middle as the fuel burns up.

There are other types of campfires, all with specific purposes. But as with any outdoor skill, creating and maintaining any of them takes a lot of practice to get right.

Campfire Safety

As most mothers tell their kids, don’t play with fire. Treat it with respect as it has the power to save and to destroy. Remember to follow safety precautions after using a fire – douse the fire with water or bury the remains of a campfire with dust and dirt. Fires left unattended may cause serious property damage, so always take precautions that nothing that shouldn’t burn gets burned.

Fun Activities While Camping

You are only limited by your imagination. Always, there really is something fun to do if you just put your mind to thinking up ways to do it.

The following may be helpful suggestions to do just that. Believe it or not, these tips do not require expensive devices, batteries or equipment. All one needs is an open mind and a free-wheeling attitude.

Create interesting stories: Telling stories is the age-old device used by our ancestors – and even us – to battle away boredom. What did you think was the purpose of all those cave drawings? Story-telling is an ingenious way to keep kids occupied. An idle mind is a nest of anxiousness and tantrums. Keeping their minds creatively occupied through stories will get their brain cells processing.

Plus, the best thing about this activity is it is free and could be done anytime and anywhere.

How to get started? Simply start with a single line. This line should set up or at least build up the image of where the story could lead to.

For example, you may begin with “Once upon a time,” or with “I saw a green marmalade monster once.” From there, abruptly stop and let others add their own detail to the story.

However, it is best that you also set up specific rules. You may advise that there should be no detail that would scare off “your little brother” just good old clean and entertaining fun.

Watch The Clouds Roll Over: Relax and unwind. This is one way to unreel and be less up tight about anything. Chilling out has never felt this good.

Spread some towels on the grass or a blanket that is old and not that regularly used. Lie on your back and observe the variety of clouds that pass by. You may see an elephant, a rabbit or a dog. Or you could count the number of clouds that pass. This is a relaxing activity that is also just as fun. Try it out.

Bubbles, bubbles, bubbles: When outdoors, do not forget to bring your bubble maker device or toy and let everyone, especially kids, bubble their way to fun. This is an effective way to run around and laugh as bubbles pop and float around.

Board games, dice and play: In case you get rained on, do not fret. If you have brought your trusty old dice and any easy-to-carry board game with you, playing will be just as easy as one to three and its fun too. The game Yahtzee is one example. Card games are also easy and convenient games to bring. It fits one pocket’s easily and can bring loads of entertainment and games. Even magic tricks, if you know a few ones using cards.

Write your way out of boredom: Try bringing a journal and write your heart out. This could include a log of the activities that you have done all through the camping trip. They may be fun and educational later on.

Study up: When in a new place, it might help if you study the area’s history. This could be a good way to tell kids the background of the area you are at. It may also be a nice story to tell around camp fires.

Sing some songs: Really a lot more fun than you think. Songs around the camp fire are a good activity to keep everyone entertained. Make up a song. Or play a game by letting others guess the song you are humming. Use nature’s instruments – twigs may be used as drum sticks. And dance! It does not cost a thing, no one will see you, and it is a great form of exercise.

All in all, the limits of activities rest on how much you want your mind to explore. The sky’s the limit may also mean, your mind is its own limit. Do not be afraid to try something everyone would enjoy and have fun doing. Be creative. You may also bring toys such as balls. Frisbees are also a fun thing to play with especially when camping in the wild outdoors. Just remember to always have fun.

Play it Safe – Packing a First Aid Kit

Camping requires a significant amount of time away from civilization and a lot of active time walking, trailing and enjoying all the glory of the outdoors. However, wherever there is camp away from real-world conveniences, the possibility of needing some form of first aid is likely.

The following are a few tips and advice to pack that vital first aid kit when out camping…

First thing first, take lessons. Believe it or not, there are a lot of classes available that provide first aid lessons. There is a basic EMT or emergency medical technician course that one could take. However, for those who do not have much time, short lessons are available. The American Red Cross provides such courses.

Check your local community. Basic first aid lessons are generally inexpensive yet valuable once learned. Once such knowledge is acquired the training allows you to provide immediate care to an individual who is injured or sick.

Children should also be given basic first aid information. When camping with children, it definitely would not hurt if they are introduced to the first aid kit. Show kids the items inside the first aid kit, its purpose and when the probable time it might be needed.

Older kids may also be point out certain situations wherein they could get hurt and what action you should take when such a situation occurs. A child who knows or has a basic idea of first aid will panic less once an injury or a slight emergency situation occurs.

First Aid Kit: What to Pack

To better understand your first aid kit, do not forget to bring in a manual. The American Red Cross provides a good one.

Also, a small Swiss Army Knife is a very useful tool to have on a camping trip. An emergency blanket should be brought as well. Be aware that a blanket made of wool could get wet and after which may smell bad and take forever to dry. There are emergency blankets that are light weight and are easily packed.

A razor blade is great for removing splinters. Another tool to bring on a camping trip is a magnifying glass.
In addition to finding pesky slivers a magnifying glass can be effective for starting fires on a sunny day.

Another handy and useful item to bring is a mirror. Mirrors are useful especially when signaling for help.

A thermometer is another item that could be brought on a camping trip.

A cold pack can be included to prevent any exhaustion that is caused by heat. It could also be used to treat away burns, sprains, bruises, swelling, toothaches and headaches.

A water packet – the sterilized kind – usually containing about four ounces of water is an efficient and useful item used for water drinking and cleaning a wound. Fortunately, this item has a shelf life of five years.

For wounds, a medical tape should also be brought in. Also, try to pack in threads and a needle. Gloves, safety pin, scissors, eye dressing, band aid as well as a wrap bandage that is elastic.

For any injuries involving the shoulder or arms, a triangular bandage should also be brought along. Gauze pads (a good supply) should also be brought as well as a bandage that is large and compressed.

A wrap gauze should also be available when camping, wipes that are antiseptic, a lip balm (to protect the lips from the sun), and Neosporin (for kids with small wounds).

Meanwhile, for adults, a pain reliever like Tylenol should also be available. For children, a non-aspirin tablet should be available. Decongestants like Dimetapp are a good medicine to bring. Antihistamines are a great option for adults. For a hot camping trip, do not forget to pack in a salt tablet.

All in all, camping is fun if you are prepared for all the activities and experiences the outdoors will bring.

Staying in Touch when Camping

How should you do just that when you are outdoors and away from all the amenities and convenience of civilization? Easy, there are various ways and means as well as gear that is available to cater to a camper’s every need.

The following are tips and advice to make keeping in touch during camping as easy as ABC…

Set boundaries and follow them

Camping, especially if there are kids around, could be quite a complicated activity. To make it less complex and safe, try to set some boundaries in and around the campsite. Advise campers, especially kid campers, what are the things they should do and not do with or without an adult. Usually, an effective method is requiring kids to always be with a buddy. This could be an assigned partner where one could check in on each other on where the other’s location is, or update the rest of the group of any location changes.

Familiarize yourself with the surroundings

Once you arrive in the camp, make sure that you and the campers immediately familiarize yourself with the surroundings. Try to take note of any noticeable landmarks that are around. A large tree perhaps, yet make sure these landmarks are locatable in relation to the campsite.

Whistle, whistle, whistle

Equip each camper, especially children, with their very own whistle. Establish a code for specific situations that everyone could easily follow and heed. For example, a whistle blown two times could be established to mean “help.” Whistles that are blown three times could mean “I am here.”

Color your world

Or at least, have campers carry trash bags that are colored brightly. Once lost, these bags could be used as a device to signal to the others your location. Also, the bags could be used during an emergency like when it is cold outside and they need temporary shelter. Simply cut a slit at the bag’s top and have it pull through the head. Believe it or not, this plastic bag could serve as an effective albeit temporary protection that could keep a kid camper alive through the night.

Choose a camp that provides high-tech communication

Believe it or not, there are camp sites that provide campers the same amenities one would usually find in civilization. Email facilities, fax as well as phone equipment are available in a New Zealand camp site called Old Macdonalds. That is if you prefer to surf the internet while enjoying the comfort and glory of the natural outdoors.

This type of camp is perfect for those who might want to be in touch with their business or personal affairs while at the camping grounds. This type of camp strikes a balance between the rugged outdoors and the comfort and convenience of modern technology.

Make use of high-tech communication gear

If you really want to stay connected, utilize modern technology through the following gear:

• Hand-held radios. This equipment is very handy now-a-days and so could be easily transportable anywhere and anytime campers need to communicate with each other. Currently though, such an equipment is also used not just in camping but also by families that are out shopping or attending a large sports event.
• Laser Range finders are now just as handy as radios. Though they were once large and difficult to actually use, today’s finders are light, user-friendly and extremely accurate. Believe it or not, these laser range finders are also used in golfing.
• Global positioning system. Currently, units that have gps are used by the military and units involved in search and rescue operations. Though these equipments have features that are high-tech, they are still easy to operate and very user friendly.
• Night vision goggles. The movies are not the only place this equipment could be seen and used. These devices are now readily available. Though these are sophisticated, they are very easy to use, light weight and are compact and handy.

All in all, staying in touch while camping out may be a bit difficult if you have no idea how to go about it. To be able to avoid this, prepare the equipment, rules and stuff you need to go through beforehand. Camping should be fun. Ample preparation adds to enjoyment and lessens the stress.

10 Fun Things for Kids To Do on A Camping Trip

No doubt about it, camping trips are fun. A vacation in the wild outdoors, fresh air, roughing it can be such a fun break from the hectic routine of city life.

However, a lot of people think they cannot enjoy or even survive a camping trip because of kids. Children can indeed add enjoyment to anybody’s life, but to be honest, it is really hard to bring kids along on a camping trip. Imagine having no television or computers to keep them busy (and quiet).

For the average parent, that could spell disaster. But you should not despair; there are many activities in the outdoors that can keep kids entertained during a camping trip. Here are ten of them.

1. Get wet and go splashing. More likely, you would be able to find a nice swimming spot. Whether a big lake or a small brook, you are bound to locate a nice body of water to splash around and have wet fun. Swimming amidst nature can be so much more enjoyable than swimming in a man-made pool. Just be sure that the swimming hole you find is safe for people, normally camping parks would tell you which ones are good for dips and which ones are not. Also, be careful about diving and never leave your kids swimming alone.


Cycling is fun for the whole family.

2. Bike together. Most camping sites have great bike trails. Riding bicycles is very fun when the view is great. It is faster and cooler than just traveling on foot. Make sure to bring a map and plan your trip so that you would not easily get lost. Do not ride too fast, or you might leave each other behind, anyway, you would not be able to enjoy the scenery if you speed.
3. Watch for birds and animals. Most camping sites and forest parks have primers and leaflets about the various animals thriving in their area. You may also bring books about wild animals and see if you could spot them. Try having a contest – the one who spots most kinds of animals wins. See the different animals that come out during the night and compare them to those that come out during the day. Just keep your children a safe distance away so that they will not disturb the animals.
4. Play games in the outdoors. It may be the classic sac race, tug-o-war, or just plain tag. Nothing beats the time-tested games when done in the woods. Just be sure to play games in a clear area to avoid accidents. Also, avoid creating so much noise so that you disturb the wildlife.
5. Organize a scavenger hunt. Kids love to go on quests and adventures. Scavenger hunts can be a great alternative to the role playing games kids play these days, not to mention that it is more physical, allowing your kids to exercise rather than just sit in front of the computer screen all day. Just warn your kids about the many prickly plants that could be lurking in the woods, such as poison ivy, oak and sumac.
6. Learn how to read maps and compasses. The great outdoors is a nice way to teach your children about navigation. Take out your map and compass while exploring the forest. Show your kids where you are on the map and show them where you are heading. This can also be done in conjunction with the scavenger hunt.
7. Light a campfire. Perhaps this is among the most awaited activities during camping. This can be the best way to end the day. Gather around the campfire to sing songs and tell stories (scary ones if you would like). Roast marshmallows and hotdogs. Play riddles and other word games.
8. Watch the stars. This is another night activity that can be both fun and educational. You may just simply lie on the ground and appreciate the free light show in the sky, or you may bring out a star chart and look for famous constellations and other heavenly bodies. Look for shooting stars and make your wish.
9. Bathe in the rain. The weather can be unpredictable in many places, you cannot expect to have clear and sunny skies all the time. But do not pout if the rain does pour. You can have fun playing in the rain and enjoy mother earth’s natural shower. Just be careful not to go out when there is thunder and lightning.
10. Just relax and simply enjoy the moment. You are in the outdoors for only a few times in a year (or even in a lifetime). Enjoy what nature has to offer. Avoid bringing any electronic gadget and simply bask in the quiet of the forest. This is the time to bond and enjoy each other’s company.

There are hundreds of other activities to do out doors, these ten are just a fraction of the many activities you can do with your kids on a camping trip. The point of it all is to enjoy spending the time together as a family.

What About Your Dog? (The Pros and Cons of Taking Your Pets Camping)

Camping is definitely a great way to spend one’s vacation. The great outdoors is indeed a good venue to take time off from the hustling and bustling city with the fresh air and nice view that is a welcome replacement to your daily dose of smog and dust.

However, many people are hesitant about taking camping trips especially those who have pets. While pet hotels are now widely available, a lot of dog owners could not bear to be separated from their beloved canines even for just a few days.

One great idea to do is bring Fido along on the camping trip. Of course there are advantages as well as disadvantages with bringing your pet dog camping, it is therefore important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding to take Fido along on your trip.

Bringing your pet dog camping can be very exciting for both you and your canine friend. The outdoors can be very stimulating for an animal that has spent much of its time in a yard or a secluded doghouse. Your dog would greatly be excited to see, smell, and hear new things.

The fresh air of the woods can be very advantageous to your dog’s health. The camping site can also be a great venue for the dog to exercise since you are most likely going to do a lot walks in the forest.

Bringing your pet dog along can also free you of worries and the anxiety of leaving him or her behind. This gives you peace of mind during a time when you are supposed to be relaxing.

While pet hotels have been really made to be safe for you pets, seeing your pet all the time is usually the best way to make sure they are safe and are being treated the way you want them to be.

When you bring your dog along, you can also do a lot of activities. You can take your dog on hunts for bugs and other small animals. You can play catch and fetch.

Dogs can be great company for long walks. They can also help guard you from dangerous animals and nosy campers. Dogs are great protectors in the wild. A dog can even help you find your way back to your campsite in case you get lost.

Taking your dog camping can indeed be fun, however it can also be a hassle. Dogs can get too excited in the outdoors. They can get rowdy and misbehave because of the new sights, sounds and smells that agitate them. Dogs may also be frightened by the wild animals they might encounter in the woods. Being introduced to a large space may also exhaust your dog especially if it is old.

Bringing your dog along may give you extra things to worry about. Dogs may get lost in the woods and it would really be stressful on your part if they do. Your might constantly need to check on your dog, giving you extra tasks during a time when you are supposed to be relaxing.

Your dog can also be extra noisy especially at night, disturbing your sleep and the quiet moments. Dogs may easily get into accidents outdoors as there are many hidden dangers that lurk in the forest. They might run into cliffs or get entangled in bushes. They may get attacked by wild animals or get bitten by snakes and rodents. They may even catch ticks that could cause Lyme disease.

Dogs may even restrict you from doing certain activities in the campsite. Some areas in national parks do not allow dogs and other pets and thus you might not be able to gain access to such areas if you bring your dog. Dogs may provoke wild animals and cause and you may be greatly bothered by them.

Taking your pet dog camping can have its merits and demerits. You have to carefully decide whether to bring your dog or not. If you do so, it is best to check with your dog’s veterinarian to make sure that your best friend is fit for the outdoors.

The choice is up to you whether you should bring your dog camping. If you do decide to bring Fido along, enjoy the moment together, after all, your dog is your best friend!