While having fun in the outdoors is important, safety is even more so. Camping is a great way to get outdoors, but it’s important to always put safety first. One mishap can ruin your whole trip.
You don’t want that to happen. Read on for our tips on camping safety. You can have a safe and enjoyable camping trip by following the tips below.
1. Select the Right Shelter and Site
Consider your age, your physical limitations, and your medical needs, as well as the needs of your entire group, when reserving a shelter or campground. If you choose to stay in a tent, you can expect to have different amenities than if you choose a cabin or an RV. Plan accordingly and decide what equipment you need. Camping is possible in a cabin, which provides full beds and bunks, while sleeping outside in a tent requires you to bring a sleeping bag, air mattress or other accommodation.
Though RVS and Cabins provide more safety and amenities than tents, around 60 per cent of campers report that they still prefer tent camping. Tent campers can enjoy picnic tables, fire rings and nearby restrooms that include showers.
2. Keep up to Date With the Weather
Be sure to check the weather forecasts before you go. We all know that the weather can change in an hour. It is therefore important to prepare for adverse weather conditions such as high heat, rain or snow. About 33% of campers are proactive and plan their trips a month in advance.
3. How to Safely Store and Pack Food
If you leave food on a picnic table or any other place that is not secure, it can attract wildlife. Pack your food in tight-fitting, waterproof containers, and store it in a cooler. Wash your hands to avoid foodborne illness and separate cooked food from raw food. Every year, one in six Americans gets sick due to contaminated food.
4. Practice Campfire Safety
The distance between your campsite and the tent walls, trees and shrubs should be 15 feet. Keep your fire contained and small in an area designated for it, such as a fire pit. Never leave a fire unattended. Keep a bucket of water nearby, and extinguish the fire before you leave or go to bed.
5. Insect Protection
Use insect repellents that do not dissolve in water to protect yourself against mosquitoes, ticks and any other insects. Check for ticks every day, particularly in areas that you might not expect. To avoid contact with insects, it’s recommended that you wear long sleeves and long pants while hiking. Place your clothes in a dryer on high heat for at least 10 minutes after completing a hike or other outdoor activity. This will kill any ticks on your clothing.
6. Allergies: Be aware
It’s smart to have an EpiPen on hand or any other medication you know will help with your allergies in case of unexpected situations. Keep a first-aid kit on hand and be alert for symptoms such as dizziness, difficulty breathing and swelling near bites and places where insects or plants may have come into contact with the skin.
7. Protect Your Skin From the Sun
The sun’s rays can be as damaging on a cloudy day as they are on a sunny one. The sun’s rays will be strongest during the midday hours. Wearing a hat, sunglasses or seeking shade can protect you. Use lip and broad-spectrum sunscreens with at least SPF 15.
8. Stay Hydrated
It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, you should drink water. A minimum of 3 to 5 days’ worth of bottled drinking water should be included in an emergency kit. You may already be dehydrated if you feel thirsty.
9. Wildlife Watch
You can avoid attracting unwanted wildlife by storing your food in your car, a bearproof container or a food storage locker. Avoid touching or feeding animals, but do not hesitate to contact them if necessary. Wash your hands with soap or water, or use a hand sanitiser that contains at minimum 60% alcohol.
10. Enjoy Yourself and Stay Alert
Camping is a great experience, but you should also pay attention to what your body needs and how it responds to the surrounding environment. Limit your alcohol consumption, sleep well and keep your mind sharp. Over the last three years, about 3.4 million U.S. homes have become new campers. Enjoy your time outside and have fun with other campers.
Avoid These Camping Mistakes
You may know the basics of camping safety, but there are some common mistakes that people make. These can hurt their camping trip. Here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure your camping trip is safe and enjoyable.
Do Not Research Your Camping Destination
Research is essential when camping, and tent camping in particular. Even if you’re staying at a Kampgrounds of America campground, you should still research information like booking policies and permissions, as well as popular dates and seasons. Understanding what you can expect will help you plan your trip better and make sure you have all the gear you need.
Arriving Late at Your Campsite
Even if the road to your campsite is well-lit, it’s best to avoid arriving after dark, as you may not be able to see all the details. While a headlamp can be used, it will not give you the same level of visibility as daylight. You may not see dead branches that can blow away in strong winds. You might also find it difficult to see the details on your tent, and end up assembling it incorrectly.
Arriving late to your campsite will not only cause you more problems, but it can also disturb other campers. You can ruin their camping experience by making noise while you set up your tent, or by blinding them with a headlamp.
Forgetting Equipment
The worst thing that can happen when camping is to forget an important piece of equipment, like a camp stove or raincoat, at home. Make a packing checklist before you leave for your trip and double-check it several times to make sure that nothing is left behind. This list should be brought to the campsite so that you can check if you have all of your items before you leave.
Ignoring Camping Etiquette
You will likely be required to adhere to certain rules while staying in a campground. Ignoring the rules could harm you or another camper and make it more difficult for campground owners and staff to ensure everyone’s safety. By thinking of others and following the rules, you can make sure everyone has an enjoyable camping trip.
The majority of campgrounds follow the following policy:
- Prepare and plan.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Reduce the impact of your fire.
- You can leave anything you find.
- Respect wildlife.
- Respect other campers.
Prioritising camping safety is essential for truly enjoying the great outdoors. As you prepare for your adventure, consider the importance of thorough planning. Research your destination, familiarise yourself with the terrain, and know the rules and regulations of the area. This groundwork not only enhances your experience but also ensures you’re well-equipped to handle any challenges that may arise.
Always pack a comprehensive first aid kit and know how to use its contents. Familiarise yourself with basic first aid procedures and have a plan for emergencies. It’s also wise to share your itinerary with someone who isn’t going on the trip, so others are aware of your plans.
Stay hydrated and be mindful of the weather conditions. Check forecasts regularly and adjust your plans accordingly. Dressing in layers will help you adapt to changing temperatures, ensuring you’re comfortable throughout your trip. Additionally, keep an eye on local wildlife and understand how to interact safely with animals. Respecting their space is crucial for your safety and theirs.
Practising Leave No Trace principles is another vital aspect of camping safety. This means cleaning up after yourself, disposing of waste properly, and minimising your impact on the environment. By doing so, you help preserve these natural spaces for future generations of campers.
Embrace the beauty of nature with confidence, knowing that a little caution and preparation go a long way. Camping can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences, filled with adventure and connection to the natural world. With these tips in mind, you can create lasting memories while ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure. Remember, the best experiences in nature come when you’re well-prepared and aware. Happy camping, and may your journeys be filled with wonder and discovery!
