Your Guide to the Perfect Camping Adventure!
Labor Day is behind us, and camping season is in full swing. Nothing compares to waking up in the woods with the sun shining through the trees and the birds sweetly singing to the world. Camping can be a fantastic way to unplug from our electronically driven lifestyles while being with the ones you love and appreciating the peacefulness of mother nature. If you are anything like me, comfort is super important, and sometimes camping can be, let’s say…Uncomfortable. Here are some tips to make your camping experience more enjoyable.
The ability to start a safe and successful fire is essential to camping. Campfires are great for gathering around socially, cooking food, and, most importantly, staying warm! Before anything, ensure you are in an area or campsite that permits small campfires; this is critical for your safety and the environment around you. Starting your campfire can be the most challenging part. Toilet paper rolls stuffed with the lint from your dryer or cotton balls saturated with petroleum jelly work as effective, cost-efficient fire starters. You may also want to consider packing some newspaper or paper bags to get your fire going. Don’t forget to bring a lighter or matches!
When it comes to eating while camping, I suggest preparing some meals at home, which will make for less clean-up while in the woods. I recommend preparing any meats, veggies, or pasta dishes you plan to bring in plastic Tupperware. Pre-made sandwiches are also another ready-to-go camp meal. You’ll want to pack some snacks and lots of water as well. I recommend bringing along the fixings for S’mores. It’s just not camping without them!
I don’t know about you, but sleeping with nothing separating me from the ground but a thin tarp isn’t for me. I like to bring foam mats for my camping adventures, and they’re easy to pack up and just as easy to arrange in your tent. Air mattresses or cots might be a better option if you are looking for a little more distance from yourself and the lumpy forest floor.
I have found that the older I have gotten, the more I have enjoyed and appreciated my family camping trips. These trips are one of the best ways to take much-needed breaks from our crazy busy lives and enjoy quality time with the family.
I’d love to hear any of your camping hacks or funny camping stories. Feel free to send them to me at creynolds@newdimensionsfcu.com
Happy Camping, Everyone!
Carrielyn