Are you among the 75 million Americans planning a camping trip this year?
If so, here are some essential camping tips and tricks for beginners you should know before your adventure.
1. Bottle Lanterns
There are two ways you can create glowing and lovely lights while camping.
One way is to purchase USB powered lights that can slip into bottles such as water, wine, or beer bottles. These lights are great because they can be charged with a portable solar kit and USB port.
Another idea is to strap small LED lights or a headlamp around a bottle or jug.
These bottle lanterns are handy because you don’t have to worry about holding them or the dangers of fire.
2. Meal Prep at Home
Before you head out on your camping trip, cut up all your vegetables and fruit and portion your snacks in containers or baggies. This will make cooking and eating considerably easier.
Plus, it saves you time so you can spend less time preparing meals and more time exploring.
Check out some of our food hacks that will make life easier whether you’re camping or staying in.
3. Easy but Delicious Meals
Hobo stew is one of the easiest meals you can make while camping.
Simply bring prepped vegetables that you enjoy and meat if you’d like. Coat the food with a barbeque sauce and your favorite seasonings and place in aluminum foil.
Then, all you have to do is throw the foil onto a grill or fire and cook for about 15 minutes until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are softened.
Make sure to keep all food and trash securely stored to prevent visits from dangerous and/or annoying wildlife.
4. Easy Fire Starters
Bring a fire starter kit to take the hassle out of starting a warm and cozy fire.
If you are set on doing it the old fashion way, then bring toilet paper rolls stuffed with dryer lint. These will catch on fire quickly and smell nice, too.
5. Wet-Naps
Wipes or wet-naps are essential for camping.
Sometimes you won’t have access to a shower. Use these to wash, stay smelling nice, and prevent any harmful bacteria or infections.
6. Comfort is Key
For your first camping trip, you want to be as comfortable as possible. There are a few ways to make sleeping comfier.
If you’re driving and weight isn’t a concern, bring lots of blankets and/or sleeping bags that are suited for weather and provide extra padding.
If you need lightweight materials, bring a blow-up mattress or a sleeping mat. Some people use child’s playmats that come apart and puzzle together.
7. Bug, Tick, and Bear Repellant
Repellant is one of the most important camping tips and tricks for beginners. The most important part of camping is staying safe and comfortable.
Bring mosquito and insect repellant, tick deterrent, and bear repellent to keep away pest and dangerous wildlife.
You can find these in any outdoor store or make your own.
8. Test your Equipment
Before you treck on your journey, test all equipment. It may be difficult to find replacements or loans once you’re there.
Test to make sure your flashlights, chargers, tent, stoves, and any additional gear are in good shape, work properly, and do not have any tears or wounds.
Always bring extra batteries and a repair toolkit just in case.
You can get all the equipment you need at 4WD Supa Centre. They have everything from tents to mosquito nets to kits and more. Discover more of their high-quality camping products on their website.
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