The 411 On Camping: Your Camping Checklist
Summer fun is not complete without a camping trip. A lot of people love to get out of town, sleep under a blanket of stars and listen to nothing but the quietness of nature. You can go zen or go wild, whichever style suits your inner-self the most. There are some details to consider before each time you plan a camping trip near or far such as gear, activities and wildlife habitat. Read on for your camping checklist for summer!
In the Colorado mountains, a beautiful sunny day can turn into a wet and rainy night, and you better be ready for it! Camping gear is something you want to invest your money in. A strong and waterproof tent could save a day, and a weather resistant and compact sleeping bag could save your night. A high end sleeping pad can deliver a good rest as well. You will also want to bring enough water for drinking and cooking. A portable water filter or a water purifier is not a bad idea if you want to travel light and will be staying by water resources. Don’t forget a headlamp and some back up batteries for a night time!
There are a lot of people who love going backcountry hiking and camping solo. It is ok as long as but you let someone know where you are heading to and when you are expected to be back, just in case. While out there, be respectful of nature. Don’t pick the wildflowers – they are most beautiful right where they are! Stay on a trail while hiking and set up tent on designated area, if available.
Food storage is also very important when you go camping. Bear proof containers can be found at most campsites. They are mostly rectangular in shape, hard sided and made of heavy steel.The container helps keep most animals away from the human food that are powerfully attractive to wildlife. By properly storing your food in the wild, you can avoid a close contact situation between you and any number of beasts, including raccoon, elk and mice etc. If a food container is not provided, you can hang your food up by some rope or cable between well spaced trees high enough to avoid the reach of a standing bear. Do not keep any food in your tent or car, especially at night while a lot of animal are out hunting.
Camping is not just about sleeping outside under the stars.There are a lot of details to consider when you plan a camping trip. Tiny little details can create a whole different experience. Some of the basic camping suggestions mentioned above can help you get started. Remember, when you go camping, you are leaving your own habitat and occupying another’s. So, please keep that in mind and be respectful of the native wildlife and beauty of the great outdoors.