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Camping Basics - Storing Gear

How and Where to Store Your Gear

By David Sweet, About.com

Before sitting down and reminiscing about the trip, the final chore of storing the camping gear still needs to be done. But first, if you haven't already done so, start a gear check list:

  • make a check list
    Take inventory of your gear as your store it, and note any broken gear that needs repair, missing items that need to be replenished, or items that you want to add to the list.

  • high and dry
    Storing gear high helps keep it away from rodents and insects. Keeping it dry helps avoid mildew.

  • avoid freezing
    Any moisture in materials can cause damage from expansion when freezing. Some materials, even when dry, may crack in very cold temperatures.

  • food smells
    Rodents are attracted to the smell of food and can quickly ruin your gear chewing through it to look for food that is no longer there. To avoid these pests, be sure to air out or wash all gear that smells of food.

  • remove batteries
    To avoid any possibilities of corrosion, remove the batteries from any gadgets and store them separately.

  • where to next?
    Plans for your next camping destination begin with the check list, and with adding any new items that may further your enjoyment of the great outdoors.

Happy Camping!

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