You’re in for a real treat if you are experiencing the joys of camping for the first time. There is nothing better than going waking up next to nature. If you have never been camping, but assume it’s hard or you won’t like it, continue reading to learn more about it.

Find where you will camp before sunset. If you wait until after dark to set up you will find it to be nearly impossible, even if you have decent light. Those that live in urban areas find this to be the case even more than those that are used to pitch black darkness. Avoid this hazard completely, by finding adequate shelter long before the sun goes down.

Take a class on how to do first aid. This is especially important if you are taking kids with you. If something bad happens, you’ll be able to take care of it because you’ll know exactly what to do while waiting for a health professional to show up. You should also research the area you plan on camping in. You should be aware of things like whether there are snakes around and what kind of animals live there.

Weather Forecast

Prior to leaving on your camping adventure, look at the weather forecast in the location your are going to be camping. There are several websites that will give you the weather forecast for the week. If you have the correct weather information, you will be better prepared with proper equipment and clothing.

Kids might enjoy a camping activity called the “jungle breakfast.” Bring some packaged foods, beverage boxes and even fruits, then tie them to trees near the campsite. Make your children “hunt” them in the wild; like a great outdoorsman. This can add some magic to their camping trip.

Dryer Lint

Old dryer lint makes a great fire-starter. Collect your dryer lint about a month before you go camping. Keep a used grocery bag on your laundry room door to collect the lint. Using this for your kindling will save you time looking for it, and it will work even better than any kindling that you do find.

Even camping purists may find that having a small luxury item is a good thing. Bring an interesting book, some luxurious candy or even a nice fluffy pillow. Don’t bring any items that are heavy, though. These small treats for yourself can really boost morale.

It’s imperative that you locate a safe place to camp and pitch your tent before the sun goes down. If you are traveling in an RV, park it in a well secured area. Locate a flat area of dry ground if you plan to pitch a tent. If you don’t do this, you could find yourself in a precarious and unsafe area after dark. This will save you from feeling stressed and frustrated, as you can see exactly what you’re doing.

Duct tape is a valuable item to carry for many different situations. From mending tent holes to fixing shoes, duct tape can be used for a lot of repair work in a pinch.

Duct Tape

The supplies for your next camping excursion should include a couple rolls of duct tape. Duct tape has numerous uses at a campsite. Tape can be used to seal holes in your sleeping mattress. It can repair a rip in a sleeping bag, tarp or tent. Before embarking on an arduous hike, put it on each foot to stave off blisters. You can even use it to hold on a makeshift bandage.

Are you a beginning camper and have just purchased your first tent? Practice pitching the tent that you purchase to gain experience and avoid stress. This will give you the confidence to pitch your tent at any time. With this practice under your belt, your tent will go up much quicker and have you sheltered before night falls.

Now that you have the basic information for camping, start planning your next camping trip! By using the advice you’ve gathered here, you’ll be a camping pro. No matter where you go, near or far, you can have a wonderful time.