Going camping in the back country can be an exciting adventure, but you need to be well-prepared to stay comfortable and safe. The tips and tricks that we’ve provided to you here should help make your next trip much more enjoyable.

Find your best place for camping shelter long before nightfall. If you wait until after dark to set up you will find it to be nearly impossible, even if you have decent light. This is especially important to those who are not accustomed to the darkness associated with the great outdoors. Avoid this circumstance entirely by securing your accommodations ahead of time.

Sleeping Bag

Bring sleeping bags appropriate for the season. You don’t want to sweat all night because you brought a sleeping bag that is suitable for winter in the middle of the summer. Conversely, if you bring a light-weight sleeping bag to a winter camping trip, you can be extremely uncomfortable the entire time. You could even develop hypothermia or frostbite if it’s very cold.

Let everyone help choose the perfect campsite for your family. Talk about where you want to camp. Since the are so many great options to choose from across the U.S., it might be hard to select only one! Try to select a short-list and then put it to a family vote.

Carry a bandana or handkerchief with you. A bandana is very versatile and can be used as a blotter, potholder, mini-bag and more. It has a multitude of uses and should be an essential part of your camping gear.

Dryer lint makes surprisingly good kindling for starting campfires. Collect some lint from your clothes dryer to bring with you. Keep a plastic bag right next to the dryer and put the lint in there. This technique allows you to grab your kindling and go the day of your trip.

When camping alone or in the company of friends, always bring an emergency kit. Your kit’s contents will change depending upon the season and location of your trip, but you should always bring the basics. Having extras like anti-venom is a good defense for certain kinds of wildlife.

You don’t have to entirely rough it. Bring a little piece of luxury from home. It could be something as simple as coffee or nice hand cream. A small luxury that reminds you of home can be uplifting.

Bring along camping pillows to the campsite. If you use your bedroom pillows, the humid weather will make them feel hot and sticky. Because they absorb moisture from the air, they can quickly mildew. Pillows designed for camping offer a coating that prevents moisture absorption.

The more organized you are, the better your camping trip will be. Using the advice presented here will give you the confidence to set out on your own safe and relaxing camping adventures.