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Camping Basics - Breaking Camp
Tips for Packing Up and Departing

By , About.com Guide

All good things sooner or later come to an end, and the same goes for camping. When it comes time to pack it up and head back to our other lives, consider these tips before departing:

  • Stow Your Gear
    Use a whisk broom and/or rags to wipe off gear as you stow it.Try to pack your gear as you had it when you came to the campground. Also it's a good idea to separate dirty clothes so that they will be ready to be washed when you arrive home.

  • Check the Cooler
    Dispose of any food wastes, empty out excess water, and replenish the ice, as needed, for the trip home.

  • Dowse the Campfire
    Make sure the campfire is out. Dowse the area with the excess water from your cooler or another source.

  • Gather all Trash
    To state it simply, "leave no trace!"

  • Police the Area
    A broom and a leaf rake come in handy for grooming the campsite and gathering up the last of any litter.

  • One More Potty Break
    Before leaving, take advantage of this opportunity to take a final bathroom break and to wash up a bit.

  • Final Walk Around
    One last check, walk around your vehicle and look around the campsite to see if anything was missed.

  • say goodbyes
    Until next time ...

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