Camping can be very relaxing and a great escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can just sit, soak in all that nature has to offer, and forget about the rest. This article describes some guidelines that will be helpful on your next camping trip.

Although you might assume the woods will offer you plenty of firewood for your camping needs, nature may surprise you with rain-soaked logs or wood that will not easily ignite. It’s always prudent to bring wood that you have gathered beforehand, and to store it in a location where it will stay dry.

Preparation could mean the difference between a good camping experience and a dreaded one. Only go camping when you have prepared yourself for it. Research the place that you are traveling to, which will help you to understand the climate and geography.

Keep a kerchief or bandanna close at hand. These can be used for several things, like drying your hands or holding a hot pot. There are many uses for these, so you want to be sure you have one or both of them on your next camping trip.

Did you know that dryer lint can make great kindling to get a campfire started? Start collecting the lint from your dryer’s filter about a month before you go on your trip. Simply use a plastic grocery sack to collect each new crop of lint. By doing this, you’ll be able to collect the kindling on the day you’re taking the trip.

Don’t leave home without all of your essential camping equipment. It would be horrible to forget something important like the tent or camp mat. Check and double check your packing list and make certain that every item has been included.

If camping is new for you, start somewhere nearby. If you have any equipment issues, it is better and easier to cut your trip short when you do not have so far to travel. Maybe you will find out that there isn’t enough food or clean clothes to continue. A variety of issues could arise if you don’t know what to expect, so being close to home can prevent you from feeling stranded and stuck.

Take along items to use while you are camping in the wild. Scavenger hunts, card games and fishing poles all add up to wonderful diversions to do in the wild. If you’re bringing along kids, it doesn’t hurt to go overboard when thinking of what to bring for fun.

If your intended camping destination is known for its prowling wildlife, take more than enough precautions to secure food. These precautions include tightly wrapping your foods and storing them away from your tent. You also have to just forgo certain foods entirely. Making sure to do this, will lessen any chance of a wild animal attack.

Packing key essentials is necessary for good camping. Forgetting one or two key items could result in disaster. Creating a checklist of all the things you need can help you. You should bring along a knife, food, water, shelter and a sleeping bag.

Cell Phone

Bringing along a cell phone with a full charge isn’t a bad idea while camping. You should also seriously consider bringing a spare battery for your cell phone in case the main battery dies. A cellphone can save your skin in bad situations, but only if it has a battery.

Learn how to use a compass or read a map, beforehand. You need to do this even if you’ve been to the campsite before. You may get lost even in a familiar site because so many areas look alike. Your skill using a compass and a map can be a lifesaver one day.

Waterproof matches are an absolute essential addition to your camping survival kit. Keep them stored in an air and water tight container. You can take ordinary matches and make them waterproof when you dip them into nail polish or paraffin. You can store these matches in something like a medicine bottle or empty film container.

Camping is a wonderful pastime. Explore the inspiring beauty of the great outdoors and get away from the every day. These tips can help you have a rewarding and memorable camping trip that you will enjoy remembering for years to come.