Everything For The Outdoors!

A tent is the most important part of your camping gear. You can have a entire truck load of gear but if have no tent, a bad tent or the wrong tent all of your other camping equipment becomes useless. You can get by without an axe by using more kindling and burning larger bits of wood. A camping stove is a great convenience but you can always cook on the fire. A tent however is essential.

How do you pick a tent? Its really not that hard despite the large array of choices. You should get the best tent you can afford and buy one that is slightly bigger than you think you will need. If you have four adults on your trip and gear you should look to buy an eight person tent. A four person tent will contain four adults but not comfortably and not necessarily with enough room for all the supplies you bring and need to keep safe or dry. After this its just a matter of choosing the right shape, height, and area. Remember not to buy too big because you may have trouble finding a flat spot to lay your tent out. Always remember that the tent is the most  important part of your camping equipment.

No matter how carefully you plan, or how many times you’ve been camping, emergencies can strike at any time. Whether you’re lost, hurt, or have been bitten by a snake, it’s essential to have the right equipment to deal with these situations. The first thing you should have packed is your first aid kit.

You should always check your kit before leaving to make certain it’s well stocked. This should include bandages, gauze, and antiseptic ointment to treat minor scrapes, cuts, and burns. Also, keep hydrocortisone cream inside in the event of  poison ivy or mosquito bites. A good first aid kit should also have a snake bite kit. This is important because it could be a while before medical assistance arrives.

Other emergency basics include a pocket knife with scissors, blade, and can opener, a compass in case you become lost, a silver emergency blanket for warmth, and a cell phone. Remember, your cell phone is not guaranteed to work in the woods or mountains, but it’s good to have, and sometimes can be used to track you. Most important of all, always tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.This could be the biggest lifesaver of all.