Everything For The Outdoors!

Camping is much like survival and requires some very basic components: shelter, food and water. The question you need to ask yourself is, “How rugged do I want to get?”. When camping you have to work for your survival and the more time you spend at work the less time you have for play.

Let’s start with shelter. You’re probably bringing a tent. But there’s more to shelter than that. Where are you putting your tent? Do you need electricity? What is the weather like? Do you need something to act as a wind block? What does the terrain look like? All of these problems can be answered with a well setup campsite. You have to pay to camp usually but it’s a lot easier and less work.

The next obstacle is food. This is a big one because a lot of people don’t like to leave the comforts behind when they think about what they want to eat. Hot dog on a stick doesn’t cut it for everyone. You have to consider more factors when packing it tho like trash, method of preparation and storage. I have found some great recipes online for easy campfire meals. One time we made a roast with potatoes and veggies wrapped in foil in individual servings. All we had to do was set it near the fire for 30 minutes then pull it out and eat it! But it never hurts to make sure civilization is a quick jaunt from your campsite incase you need to run to your favorite fast food joint.

Lastly we have to think about water. A lot of people take water for granted. With pesticides and natural bacteria in most rivers and streams we can’t just go scooping handfuls of the stuff into our mouths anymore. If you’re using a fresh water source always boil your water. If you are at a campsite they usually will provide water to you. Otherwise, I reccomend hauling it in by the gallon.

Keep these things in mind the next time you are planning your trip. It could mean the difference between a relaxing weekend with your family or having to work overtime just to scrounge up a meal!

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.