How to Survive Camping
- 1). Plan the camping trip well in advance. Make plans as you would for any vacation or trip. Determine where you want to go, what you want to do and how long you should or can stay. Take into consideration any short half-day trips that may be taken, as well as activities available without having to drive away from the campsite.
- 2). Pack for the camping trip with the mind-set of comfort and enjoyment. Especially when planning a trip with smaller children, this is no time to try out wilderness survival skills. Pack plenty of food as well as snacks, beverages and items for entertainment.
- 3). Plan for the unexpected or worse-case scenario. When camping, the worst case is usually rain, so what will you do? Include games, a radio, books or other items that can keep family members entertained for possible extended periods. This is also a good time to leave the campground and enjoy a short half-day trip to a local tourist attraction or historic area.
- 4). Research the activities available in or near the campsite. Many times there are opportunities for hiking, fishing and other outdoor activities. Taking the time to include fishing equipment or other related items can not only increase the opportunities for fun, but can also decrease the amount of money by saving on equipment rental. Also consider taking bikes on the trip.
- 5). Plan on spending time around the picnic table or a campfire. This is a great family time for in-depth or casual conversations. The main point is to encourage family bonding.
- 6). Include a first-aid kit. One of the fastest ways for camping to turn disastrous is through injuries that cannot be treated. Pack a first-aid kit for basic cuts, scrapes or burns. Keep in mind that the possibility exists for more traumatic injuries such as sprains or that you may also need to stabilize a potential broken bone. Know how to use the items in the kit properly.
