No matter who you are or where you live, getting out into the great outdoors is always a good way to slow down a bit, enjoy some nature, and recharge your batteries.
Camping is one of the most fun and yet least expensive activities you can do outside, so it’s no wonder that millions of people look forward to camping trips with friends and family every year, no matter what the season.
But, in order to really make the most of your experience, and this is true especially if you are new to camping, there are a couple of safety tips you should keep in mind. Follow these, and you’re going to be far more likely to avoid any accidental mishaps that can put a major damper on any camping experiences.
7 Camping Safety Tips
Don’t Over Exert
This is a big one, especially if you’re new to camping. There are all sorts of camping levels, something that fits everyone’s needs from a monitored campground at a state park to backcountry rustic camping. In order to have the most fun, start easy, and work your way to more rustic as you get more experienced.
Watch for Animals
Don’t forget, even if you are at a well monitored campground, you’re still in nature, and there are plenty of animals around, especially when they know there are humans out leaving food. Avoid this by keeping your food locked away, and respect your surrounding area, keep an eye out for critters.
Zip It Up
One of the best ways to make sure your tent stays free of any creepy crawlies? Keep it zipped at all times. That way you can ensure you won’t find any surprises in your tent when you least expect (or want) them!
Drink Water
One of the most common issues people run into when camping is they become dehydrated. It’s very easy to forget when you’re hiking or playing around to drink up on a consistent basis, since it’s not always easy to just open the fridge and grab a bottle. Keep plenty of water on hand at all times.
Dress Properly
No matter where you camp or what time of year you do it, it’s always a good idea to bring plenty of layers. Most people can be surprised at how chilly it can get at night, even during a very warm day, so don’t skimp on an extra shirt or pair of socks. And try using some wicking material instead of cotton.
Watch the Fire
Fire safety is a big issue, especially in and around campsites that are in drought conditions. Always keep an eye on your fire, set it up in an established area, and have water or sand easily accessible to put it out when needed.
Bring Lights
You might not realize just how dark it gets at night in the woods, even in established campgrounds. So be sure to have a few lanterns, flashlights, and even headlamps to help you easily get to the places you need to go safely without tripping on anything.
The most important thing though? Have fun! Follow these 7 tips and you’ll be well on your way to having a safe and fun time camping.
What are some of your best camping tips? Let us know in the comments!
