Camping 101 - The Beginners Guide

Camping is one of the most popular types of family vacations. Why, there is hunting to be done, fish to catch, long trails to hike, and serene sunsets to watch. There are marshmallows to toast on an open fire and ghost stories to tell. There is also another aspect of camping that you should be aware of, however. And that is: Camping is not easy. Below is some advice that can make your camping trip a little more fun and a lot less stressful!

You can expect to work. Packing and unpacking gear along with setting up the camp is tedious work. Although most tents can easily be assembled in small amounts of time, you still have to lay tarps, pound stakes, attach guy lines, as well as, the tent poles. Trying to find a level piece of land is optimal, but most areas of land will not be totally level. In addition, you will be cooking, cleaning and housekeeping. This will be totally the opposite of a hotel vacation.

Don't expect to get a good night's sleep, especially when just starting your camping career. Remember, you won't be sleeping in your own comfortable bed. You can try to increase your sleeping comfort levels by using sleeping pads, air mattresses and cots, but it will still not be as comfortable as sleeping in your own home. You will also need to deal with other annoyances. Even though you may camp in warm weather, you may still be cool. The woods get cooler at night, than it does in the city. Also, dew will be on the ground in the morning, so expect things to be wet. You can also imagine the strange noises produced in this secluded area at night. All types of critters will come to life at this time of the day.

Expect animals to try to get in your food, as they have to find their nutrition in this area. You must remember to tightly close and lock your cooler and keep dry food in the car to avoid this problem. Never leave food out; whatever creature finds them may bring their friends back for another feast.

You should expect to not be on schedule when traveling. Leave early and give yourself extra time. You want to arrive at camp early enough that you still have daylight when setting up your camping area. You may encounter delays, detours or even get lost. Flat tires occur, as well as, car problems.

Don't expect to not have problems, no matter how carefully you have planned. Injuries can occur, food gets overcooked and undercooked as you try to familiarize yourself with a new way of cooking, and equipment, even though previously tested, sometimes just doesn't work. Campsites sometimes don't live up to your expectations and you may have neighbors who are not courteous.

Expect to forget something no matter how many checklists you made. Be prepared to have alternative plans. Don't expect to find grocery stores close by. You are in the middle of nowhere, and you may have to travel to get items left behind. Decide if you really need them, or if you can do without.

Finally, children will get fidgety, no matter how many activities you may have planned. They may need to get use to the outdoors living adventure. Don't expect everyone to love it. Adjustments need to be made, especially if you are a high maintenance person. Basic living can be hard for some. But after spending quality time in some of the most breathtaking surroundings, and working together to setup and prepare, do expect to develop closeness with your traveling companions and memories you won't soon forget.