Camping
Usually a hiking trip is made up of two different types of activities. Firstly there is the actual hiking or in other words walking. Secondly there is camping and activities that you do in the camp. In this section the basics of choosing a campsite and setting up a camp are going to be coverd.
Imagine that you have been walking the whole day, it is starting to get late and you decide that it is time to set up camp. What should you do and what should you think about to have the best plausible camping experience and a good nights sleep? |
1. Choosing a campsite
First of all you need to decide on a spot that is suitable for camping. When searching for a good spot to set up camp there are a few things to look for.
- Look for a spot that is dry. This usually means a spot located on higher ground than the surroundings. Keep the expression "high and dry" in mind. However do not pick a spot on top of a hill or something similar if it is exposed to strong winds.
- Choose a site that is located close to a water source. Water is needed for several of the things that you are going to be doing in your camp such as cooking and cleaning.
- Pick a spot where the ground is flat. This one might be a no brainer but we are going to include it anyway because it is really important. Camping in a flat area makes activities such as cooking both easier and safer, furthermore it keeps you from rolling out of your sleeping bag at night.
- Choose a site according to regulations. In a lot of places there are rules that you have to be a certain distance away from houses and roads etc.
- Pick a campsite with shade. This one is not a must and it depends on what type of weather and climate you are camping in. But keep in mind that if you are going to stay in your camp during daytime it can get really hot, and on a warm day it is always nice to be able to relax in the shade.
2. Setting up the camp
Now that you have picked a spot it is time to set up the actual camp. Start with setting up your tent and unroll your sleeping bags so that they get a bit fluffy for when it is time to sleep. To avoid animals in your camp keep your food in a spot far away from the tent. We recommend that you hang it from a branch so that animals cant reach it. Finally decide on a toilet area. It should be located far away from the campsite and downstream any water source close to the camp. Dig a hole in the ground and keep a roll of toilet paper in a plastic bag close to it. When your are leaving fill in the hole and pile some stones on top, it keeps future campers from digging up the same spot.
3. Staying in the camp
When you are in the camp make sure to be organized. If you stay organized while you are in the camp it will keep you from loosing your possessions. Also make sure that you put all your garbage in special bags which you like the food keep away from animals. Another tip to avoid animals in your camp is to prepare your food far away from your tent.
That's it! Camping does not need to be more difficult than that. Just make sure that you bring all your possessions and garbage with you when you leave. No one likes people who litter. Hopefully you have learned something and good luck with your future camping!
That's it! Camping does not need to be more difficult than that. Just make sure that you bring all your possessions and garbage with you when you leave. No one likes people who litter. Hopefully you have learned something and good luck with your future camping!
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