Common Mistakes Of New Campers
Thursday December 27, 2007
Many of you may have gotten some outdoor gear for a present over the holidays. Before you take it camping for the first time, try it out. One of the most common mistakes of new (and old) campers is not trying out new gear at home. The point is to become familiar with your gear before going on a camping trip. Assemble tents in the yard. Sleep in your sleeping bags on the floor for a night. Use any cooking items for a home cooked meal. Put batteries in and test any electronics. It's all about being prepared...read more
Comments
A nice article and very good advice. I taught camping to adults so they could camp with kids.
Another good piece of advice is to pitch that new tent in your yard and hose it down. It WILL leak the first time it gets wet. Let it dry and then either pack it away WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS or camp out over the weekend in the back yard. Learn to assemble/disassemble and properly stow your camping equipment. Backyard camping is one of the best ways to use that new stove, stack pots (soap the bottoms with dish soap before open fire cooking), gas lanterns (be sure you have spare mantels), and portable heaters if needed, and a test of what you need to pack–like a can opener and matches. Lists are available on many camping websites.
Most of all, be sure you have sufficient safety equipment along. The best things you can pack are a folding shovel, a box of baking soda, a first aid kit, your cell phone, and a bucket. All are instrumental in fighting fires and for personal safety.
Don’t forget Fido’s needs! Flea and tick treatment, a 6′ tie out cord, poop bags–yes, you are required to scoop poop, sufficient food for a more active pup, and of course tip proof food and water bowls. Many campgrounds require a copy of Fido’s rabies certificate as well.
If you figure out just how everything works in the comfort of your home turf everyone has a more pleasant time when you hit the more “wild” outdoors. For your first foray, camp with a more accomplished friend. They will help you out of your troubles and you’ll have that much more to laugh about years from now!