| The best camping tip you can get is to abide by the | | | | do not forget the water. Make sure you have plenty |
| Boy Scout motto and "be prepared." There are all | | | | available to keep hydrated and to cook with. |
| sorts of things that can happen on a camping trip so | | | | Weather |
| expect the unexpected. Make lists of items that you | | | | Plan for the expected weather conditions in the area |
| should bring and pack all the essential equipment. | | | | but do not be surprised if there is a sudden climate |
| Take into consideration the area where you will be, | | | | change. For summer bring hats for protection, |
| any rules for the camping site, weather conditions, | | | | sunscreen and insect repellant. For winter, make sure |
| safety and fun. | | | | to dress in layers, wear sunscreen, and have |
| The Campsite | | | | waterproof footwear. Always bring extra clothing in |
| Make sure you have the proper equipment for | | | | case of a climate change. Even in hot weather it can |
| camping. Know what sleeping arrangements are and | | | | get very chilly at night. Prepare for rain by ensuring |
| where you will be cooking. If you are using a camper | | | | you have shelter, tarps and waterproof attire. |
| or RV, much of this will be supplied in your facilities | | | | Safety |
| but you will need to know any rules for the particular | | | | A first aid kit is a required piece of camping |
| campsite. If you are sleeping outdoors, make sure | | | | equipment. These can be found pre made in |
| you have tents and sleeping bags as well as warm | | | | pharmacies and outdoor sporting goods stores. Rope, |
| clothing. Bring waterproof matches for campfires and | | | | a flashlight and waterproof matches are also |
| cooking. Set up tents according to instruction. Always | | | | important. Having a compass available will help in case |
| leave your campsite the way you found it. The best | | | | you get lost and a whistle can help you call for help |
| rule of thumb is to make sure it looks like you were | | | | even if you are fatigued. If leaving the campsite, |
| never there. | | | | make sure you bring food and water supplies. |
| Food | | | | Fun |
| Bring only the cooking utensils you will need to | | | | Bring games and toys, especially if you are traveling |
| prepare meals and eat. You will not have a | | | | with children. A game of Frisbee or football is a fun |
| dishwasher and may not have trash bins available. So, | | | | way to spend an afternoon. Bring your fishing rods |
| make sure you can easily clean and dispose of food | | | | and canoes for fun on the water. Do not forget to |
| items and waste. Bring lightweight, non perishable and | | | | bring binoculars and a camera for hikes and nature |
| easy to cook and clean food items. Canned foods, | | | | walks. You may want to bring art supplies and books |
| trail mix, soups and stews are great nutritional meals | | | | in case of inclement weather. For nature walks, insect |
| that are easy to store and carry. | | | | and plant guide books are usually lightweight and can |
| My favorite way to cook while camping is over the | | | | help you identify wildlife and items in nature. |
| fire, using a tripod and aluminum foil. There are lots of | | | | Camping can be great fun but you should always |
| delicious meals you can cook by putting a few | | | | prepare for things that may come up. Sudden |
| ingredients in a piece of foil, sealing it, and cooking it. | | | | changes in weather can occur and accidents can |
| Cleanup is a breeze. There are no dishes to wash. | | | | happen. Make a list of the supplies you will need and |
| You just need to properly dispose of the used | | | | carefully pack for your trip. Being prepared will help |
| aluminum foil. Do an Internet search for "campfire | | | | ensure you have a great time and stay as safe as |
| recipes" and you'll get lots of delicious foil/pouch | | | | possible in all conditions. |
| campfire meal ideas. While getting ready for camping, | | | | |