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The Six Biggest Mistakes Made by Both New and Experienced Campers #1
Here we will deal with the Do's and Don't's of camping. This issue deals with the Do's. Camping will continue to be enjoyable as long as each camper acts responsibly.
Do practice low impact camping techniques
Do pack out everything you pack in-even toilet paper, matches and cigarette butts
Do dig a 6 inch cat hole in the backcountry for human waste
Do hike with at least one other person
Do carry your map at all times
Do return to camp before dark
Do carry at least 2 quarts of water
Do bring a fanny pack to carry rain gear, water, food, map and flashlight with you at all times
Do stay hydrated
Do be prepared for freezing temperatures and rain
Do remember that once you get wet it is hard to get dry out in the wilderness
Do pack everything in plastic-including your food
Do bring a backpack cover
Do bring good rain gear, and put it on before you get wet
Do secure your food by hanging it from a tree branch or in containers provided in the backcountry
Do not leave food in your tent or pack
Do dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures
Do bring bug repellent
Do bring sunscreen
Do bring extra plastic bags
Do bring your camera with film
Do bring a good flashlight with extra batteries
Do have a checklist with you for all the items you bring with you and make sure you take them all away with you
Do recognize that a Touch the Earth trip is a group experience
Do explore and enjoy
The great outdoors is open for everyone to enjoy. When camping, the outdoors is even more open with regard to privacy because privacy barriers you have at home may not exist. So please respect others' privacy.
Follow any rules your campground has. You do not want to be fined or asked to leave, and you do not want to make things worse for other campers by encouraging the campground manager to make stricter rules in the future. Some rules may include the prohibition of pets and alcohol, observed quiet times at night and various guidelines for campfires.
It is also common sense to clean up after yourself before you leave your campsite. Do take all trash with you that came with you. None of us wants to ruin the site either for the next camper, or for the area's wildlife. Even if it is just a gum wrapper or a cigarette butt, please dispose of it properly. These are the basic Do's of camping. Learn them and you will be well on your way to being a responsible and safe camper for years to come.
Another thing I neglected and one more important reminder: In the event that you're out camping and you or a loved one scrape yourself on a tree or something worse God Forbid happens it's always a good idea to have a First Aid Kit available for you and your family!
We have a free Camping Checklist available from our home page. Just check off the items you already have, then print out the page to make sure you have everything you need and take the checklist with you.
To view our great selection of Camping & Outdoor Products, use the following links:
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