Since we typically only go camping about once a year, it is easy to forget to do or bring certain things beforehand. Of course, you don't realize that you forgot about them until you are already there - with no store within dozens of miles. So, here are some things to consider:
1. Have a camping checklist. If you make a list each time you go camping, you are bound to forget something each time. If you have a checklist saved on your device, you can always pull it up and check it. Then, if you did forget something, you can add it before your next trip. Some things you might want to include are: tent, mallet, whisk broom, stove, propane, lighter or matches, hatchet, wood, camp chairs, pots and pans, kettle, Dutch oven, plates, cups, utensils (eating and cooking), marshmallow prongs, paper towels, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, trowel, hand sanitizer, toiletries (with biodegradable soap), towels, map, compass, mirror, sleeping bags, extra blanket, pillows, sleeping pads, a cot or air mattress, air pump, extra batteries, lantern, flashlight, sunscreen, bug spray, rain gear, day pack (hiking), hiking pole, first aid kit (with mole skin), water purifier, appropriate clothing, hat, sunglasses, laundry bag, water bottles, large water container, food, cooler (with ice), ziplock bags, duct tape, a book, cash, and trash bags. Also make sure everything is in working order.
2. Tell someone where you are camping. If you are out in the wilderness, there is a very good chance that your cell phone won't work. So, if you get stuck in an emergency situation, it is important that someone who isn't going with you knows exactly where you are and when to expect you back. You may also make arrangements to call them as soon as you return so that if you aren't back within a certain time frame, they can contact the appropriate authorities. Of course, leave a cushion so that they don't send out search and rescue just because you had to travel at a slower speed than you expected; because chances are you will.
3. Check the weather report. You want to be prepared before you head out into the wilderness. Just because it is 85 degrees where you live doesn't mean that hot where you are camping. By checking the weather for the place you will be camping, you will make better decisions about which clothes to bring. That said, regardless of what the weather report says, make sure you pack a jacket and set of warm clothes for everyone in case of a freak storm. Also, be aware that just because it isn't raining where you are, if it is raining uphill from where you are, there is always the potential of a flash flood, so keep an eye on that as well.
4. Be familiar with the wildlife in the area. The biggest concern will be bears. If you are going to be camping in an area close to bears, make sure you take the proper precautions: having a place to store your food where bears can't get it, teaching your kids what to do in case they encounter a bear or other wild animal, make sure they know not to keep any type of food (or candy) in the tent, etc. Any animal can be dangerous when threatened, and shouldn't be touched or fed, but other animals that require extreme caution are snakes, moose (a lot more dangerous than many people realize), and cougars.
5. Teach kids what to do in case of an emergency. Of course you don't ever expect anything bad to happen, but regardless of our best intentions, life happens. When you are camping, you and your kids will be out of your environment, so it is always a good idea to go over what to do in case of an emergency. You may not want to scare them, but they need to be prepared in case something does go wrong. Some situations to discuss might include: what to do if you get lost, fire safety, safety around bodies of water, or what to do in extreme weather conditions (snow, rain, lightning, flood, excessive heat, etc.). Remember it is always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared.
Be safe and have fun!
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