The Great Outdoors

A fun thing to do to get yourself outside is to go camping! Who doesn’t love the great outdoors and getting away for a while? It’s great fun to swim, fish, lay outside, read a book, make a fire, and generally have a good time! However, camping requires a few tips to stay safe and to make your trip the best possible. Keep reading for some tips and tricks on camping!

1.       Bear safety – Nobody wants to get eaten by a bear…well, almost nobody. I’m betting you’re part of the group that doesn’t like to be mauled. If you’re not, leave this page and go get help immediately. The rest of you, remember to pack away food in containers at night to keep down the smell. Put the containers in a bag and don’t leave them out on tables or on the ground where food is an open invitation to bears. Also, make sure to take off your garbage or keep it in a bear-proof container. Yes, those are real.

2.       Bug spray – Always bring bug spray – nobody wants nasty diseases and itchy spots! Make sure to choose a natural kind because others contain harsh chemicals that are especially rough for children. Check for ticks and other pests before going to bed at night and remove any you see immediately and treat the bite with some kind of antibacterial spray, cream, or some itch cream.

3.       Food – Make sure you pack healthy food like fruit, healthy carbs, etc. You’ll need it to stay energized on the trip. Also, don’t forget your water! Camping in the summer can get really hot, and dehydration is a risk.

4.       Schedule – Make sure to tell a neighbor or friend where you’ll be going and when you’ll be back. That way, should anything come up, they can find you. They can also watch your house and tell the authorities if you don’t come back when you said you would. Also, don’t forget to keep it under the table when you’re leaving; you don’t want overeager neighbors to pull a five-finger discount at your house. One friend should be enough to keep you under tabs if you tell them what’s going on with your plans.

5.       Don’t bring stuff home – Really, don’t bring home wild animals or unidentified plants. Animals can carry diseases, as can plants, which can also be poisonous. Not to mention that it’s illegal!

6.       Carry a weapon – Yes, carry a knife or a small pistol in case you run into a snake, rabid animal, etc. You don’t want to be caught unarmed.

There are also lots of things you need to pack – sleeping bags, cooking utensils, and toiletries. You need to take lots of things to keep yourself comfortable, but the kitchen sink isn’t necessary! Just be sure to stay safe, and if you have any questions, ask your local park ranger or outdoor store employee for help.