There are few activities in the world that can match the the feeling of camping. Being in nature and having the opportunity to spend extended periods of time outdoors is incredible. If the idea of going camping thrills you, here are a few helpful ideas to get you started in the right direction.

When you’re packing up to go camping, don’t forget lighting essentials such as flashlights and batteries to operate them, hats to protect from sunburn and any toiletries you may need (in travel sizes of course!) It is hard to enjoy doing anything in the dark, so flashlights are quite essential. Hats are great for sun protection and keeping messy hair hidden, while your toiletries will allow you stay somewhat clean.

If you are taking kids camping, have them eat a “jungle breakfast.” You can tie small food and drink boxes into the trees. When the kids awake, you can tell them to “hunt” for breakfast. This activity adds a bit more fun to camping.

Make sure the sleeping bag you choose for your camping trip is right for the time of year and all the weather it brings. For instance, you’ll want a lightwweight bag to keep you cool in the summer. For wintertime, you will need to ensure that you have a heavyweight bag that will keep you warm in cold temperatures.

You should never leave your car or basecamp without a fully-charged cell phone. It is an even better idea to bring extra batteries as an emergency backup. A cell phone is a great emergency device; make certain it will keep working.

Try to ensure your camp is set up before night falls. If you driving an RV, you should locate a safe parking spot. Search for flat, dry ground when camping in a tent. It is much easier to do these things during the day, and you can become familiar with the area. You will be able to see a lot better, and this will make everything easier.

Always take a map with you, and make sure you know how to read the map and a compass before you go. You can get lost no matter where you are camping, keep that in mind. To steer clear of calamities, learning the right way to use such lifesaving tools is key.

If you are pitching a tent, look for soft, level ground. An area that is sloped or rugged won’t make for the best place to put your tent. Also, put a tarp down on your site to repel water in the best fashion.

If you have never been camping but are curious about whether you’d like it or not, there’s an easy way to find out. Pitch your tent right up in the sanctuary of your very own backyard, and sleep there for the entire night. No matter what happens, stay out of the house. If the night is fun, you are ready to head to the wilderness!

Take along your lint! You may think this is odd, but lint makes a terrific campfire-building aid. Lint makes better kindling than bits of wood. You just need to use some lint with a spark, and you can enjoy a nice, warm fire.

Always pack extra food and clothing when you are camping. It’s best to have extras of these just in case an emergency arises. If your food is ruined by the weather or you have to stay in the woods longer than planned, you will be prepared.

Always have an emergency kit on hand when camping with family, or even staying alone. Though your location can contribute to necessities in the kit, the basics will remain the same. Some extra emergency supplies like anti-venom may be included, too, depending on the types of wildlife you may encounter.

When you’re camping, always look for shelter prior to dark. Once it gets dark, it is much harder to find wood for your fire, prepare food, and get your tent ready. This is particularly important if you are not used to doing things in the dark. Avoid this hazard completely, by finding adequate shelter long before the sun goes down.

It is a common gesture of consideration to leave firewood at your campsite for future campers who use the site. People are often late arriving, and after setting up tents and getting the site prepared, there may not be time to find firewood before dark. You don’t have to leave any, but it’s a nice gesture.

Always pack a roll of duct tape when you go camping. Tents are pretty durable, but they still have the tendency to get weathered and torn. Having some duct tape to repair your tent can be the difference between sleeping soaking wet or sleeping dry on a rainy night.

Not many activities match the thrill of camping. Camping brings wonderful experiences, like beautiful scenery and the amazing sense of nature around you. No matter where you camping trip takes you, the helpful advice in the article above will make your trip one to remember.