Camping in the Great Outdoors
April 13th, 2008You probably experienced camping in your youth while visiting friends or on trips with
organized groups. The Boy Scouts and other groups are dedicated to this pursuit. They
offer rudimentary training in organized groups which are usually chaperoned by
knowledgeable adults. Camping can be fun for the young as well as the adult camper. It is
best to start out camping in less extreme conditions and environments. Do not plan your
first camping trip in a snow storm or 110 degree temperatures. Use terrain that is not
threatening or dangerous to the camper on his first excursion. Gain experience and
knowledge. This knowledge along with proper camping equipment can lead to more extreme
camping. Stay away from areas with dangerous game populations.
Weather and terrain usually are good indicators on what camping equipment to take with you
on your excursions. Cold weather calls for proper cold and wet weather clothing. Heavier
duty equipment is usually called for in these situations. Better insulated bed rolls and
clothing that can insure a worry free trip are better ideas. Stronger tents and equipment
that are better suited to cold weather environs and offer better protection from the elements
are correct choices. Some type of heating device or alternative plans for heating that could
make your stay more comfortable in cold weather should be initiated. Foods that are high in
caloric content make better choices in cold weather camping.
Warm weather camping calls for equipment that meets the criteria for hot conditions. Light
clothing and bed rolls meet these conditions. Extra water or water filtration devices should
be carried on these trips. Hats and clothing that offer protection from the sun are good
choices. Bug spray and a snake bite kit might come in handy under these conditions.
Under all camping conditions proper lighting and first aid equipment should be carried at all
times. Food and provisions for cooking that food should be taken along on the trip. Bed rolls
or sleeping bags should be accompanied by an air mattress and mattress pad. Maps and
compasses should be taken and put to good use. You should leave information about your
location and probable return date with a person who can use this information to inform the
authorities and thus speed up recovery operations if the need arises. Cutting devices such
as knives and axes should accompany you on your journey. To modern day campers a cell
phone can be put to good use in emergency situations.
Take packs and enough equipment that will insure your comfort and survival for the proposed
time and extra equipment and food for extra days if the need arises. If you are camping in
areas where the weather can change abruptly make allowances for that problem. Make sure
that the vehicles that transport you to the camping area are in good repair and that vehicle
emergency equipment is on board. This could include shovels and flares. A cb radio
installed on the vehicle could make a critical situation into a pleasant experience.
Have fun and be prepared for all of the situations and problems that could face you and your friends in
the great outdoors.
Stephen Graham: Stephen has a degree in Psychology and writes articles from research and his own life experiences.
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