Archive for the ‘Sports And Fitness’ Category

How To Have The Ultimate Camping Experience

Saturday, January 9th, 2010
Bradlley Mckoy asked:


Want to go on a vacation trip with your family or with friends to exotic tourists’ havens but don’t have the budget? Then camping might just be the thing for you. Whether you’re an experienced camper or have no clue about camping, this fun activity will be a snap if you follow proper guidelines.

Where to go camping

When you’ve already set your mind to going on a camping trip, it’s time to choose where to go camping. Most cities or states have their own camping sites. Check your local listings, or ask around for nearby camping grounds. f camping near home just isn’t adventurous enough for you, check out other well-known camping sites across the nation.

Most camping sites have fun and exciting activities available for everyone. Some camps offer picnic areas, hiking trails, games, and even river rafting. At night, you can enjoy sitting around a bonfire with the entire family or friends and talk about the day’s activities, tell exciting stories, or sing happy camp songs while roasting marshmallows.

However, some campgrounds prohibit campfires for safety reasons. Make sure to check with the campground personnel before doing so to avoid violating any rules. When on a camping site, make sure to observe and follow the rules and guidelines about campfires and outdoor cooking.

What to Bring On a Camping Trip

When on a camping trip, bring with you the proper camping equipment and supplies. One of the basic camping necessities is perhaps a tent. The size and number of tents should depend on how many of you are going on the trip. Choose quality tents, and test the tent before the trip to familiarize yourself with the way it is put up.

Food is also very important when going out on a camping trip. Although some campgrounds have canteens that sell food, bringing your own will probably be a lot cheaper. Some campers will even opt to bring portable gas stoves and grills, so they can cook right on the campsite. You can even go fishing for your lunch, for a more enjoyable experience.

Bring your personal necessities like a change of clothes, extra shoes and socks, anti-mosquito lotions, sun block, and even cigarette cases to protect your pack of cigarettes from being crushed or getting wet. It is important to have a camping checklist so as not to forget anything. Be sure to double check the list before leaving for the trip.

When planning a camping trip, plan it ahead of schedule to avoid last minute panic. Inquire about the campsite weeks, or even a month before the designated date of the camping trip. Decide on the length of your camping trip so you can bring the exact amount of foodstuff and other necessities.

Make your camping checklist

Take time to think and jot down on paper the things you will need on the trip. Think about the activities you will be doing and what items will be used. After making the list, check if you already have some of the items, and shop for the items that you don’t have.

It will also be a lot easier if you ask tips or advice from others with more camping experience. They would be able to tell you what you need and what you should eliminate from your list to avoid excess baggage. Once you’re all set for the trip, prepare to have an unforgettable camping experience.



Hire Caravans

Survival Tips When Camping in Winter

Thursday, December 24th, 2009
Benedict Smythe asked:


Winter camping is one of the many varieties of recreational group activity that you can do outdoors. However, although it might be a very awesome experience, aspiring winter campers should note that such activity can be very dangerous and challenging. Camping in winter pose certain dangers that are far more difficult to handle that those offered by a forest camp. Keep in mind that when you camp out in winter, negligence may yield to a variety of accidents and disasters. That is why winter campers should conduct extra preparations for their trip. Obviously, the most challenging thing about winter camping is staying warm and comfortable. Below are some tips that you ought to consider:

a. Before you set out for camp, check the latest weather forecast. Winter weather can bring sun or storm. Make sure that you are prepared for challenges prompted by the weather. Match your camping gear with the weather predictions.

b. Make sure that you have an alternative plan in case the weather spoils your plans. Be ready to face adverse reality. You must have an alternative camp site and an alternative itinerary.

c. You must have enough food, beverages, and clothing in case you get stuck in a storm. Make sure that your camping gear and supply is enough to last for a week or more out in the cold.

d. Never forget to bring tools for navigation. Navigation in the snow can be very hard. That is why you ought to bring GPS tools that can help you find your way even if the roads and foot trails are all covered in snow.

e. When traveling for a winter camp, it is necessary to use camping boots that are capable of traveling even in the slippery snow. When traveling during the early winter, many campers recommend the use of sturdy leather boots.

f. If you are bound to pass by trails with less snow, you should still use your snow boots. However, if the snow is quite dense, you should opt for an actual snow traveler.

g. Never camp in places that are not frequented by many campers, especially if you are not an expert. Make sure that somebody knows where you are setting your camp. When choosing a camp site, choose places that are highly recognized by the local authorities as an official camping site.

h. Before you set your camp, check the signboards and warning signs. On your way to your camp site, take note of all the signboards and landmarks that you find along the way. This can help you get back on the right track in case you lose your way.

i. Bring things that can entertain you along the way. Although you can bring your electronic play stations, it will be best if you bring books, cards, or board games that you can share with your fellow campers.

j. During winter, keep in mind that sunsets are quite fast so you will have to bring flashlights with you, along with other lighting tools. It will be best if you have an electric emergency light aside from the usual matchsticks and lamps. Bring extra batteries as well.

k. To fight the cold winds, you should be dressed properly. In fact, you should wear layers of clothing. First, wear clothes that transfer moisture away from the skin. Then, wear clothes that provide adequate insulation such as wool or fleece. Lastly, put on something that’s water proof or those clothes that can drift snow.



Holiday Parks

RV Lifestyles: How To Get The Most From Free Bush Campsites

Thursday, December 3rd, 2009
Bill Revill asked:


The ever-spiraling cost of RV lifestyles — plus those increasingly crowded tourist parks — is prompting many RV travelers to consider overnighting on free bush sites. Sure, no real surprise there, but paradoxically, very few of our fellow travelers actually follow through on the idea.

And that’s a pity. After all, those who for valid and various reasons choose to remain with mainstream RVing miss out on much that this lifestyle has to offer. That’s certainly true in terms of outdoor enjoyment, and the sense of freedom that comes with a night or two of self-reliance.

As it happens, help is at hand: Not only can RV bush camping be a safe, hassle-free experience, the extra gear required is negligible. Indeed, getting onto a site deep in the backblocks can be far easier than squeezing your caravan or motorhome into a crowded tourist park. And depending on how adventurous you choose to become, you probably already carry the equipment that’s needed.

So, if we press ahead with the notion that bush camping might at least be worth a try, your earliest thoughts are likely to focus on how to assess the suitability of any potential free site that you chance upon during your travels.

Checking potential bush sites

Given that safety and comfort are high priorities for all of us, the most important step in utilizing a bush site is to have a careful look over it while there’s still plenty of daylight. This upfront assessment should include (1) the condition of the track going in, (2) the overall practicality of the site, and (3) whether you’ll be able to get your RV out of there in the event the track peters out, or if rain sets in later. In the majority of cases, the best method of weighing it all up is to check it out on foot — before you commit to an unknown sidetrack.

If your tow vehicle is 4×4, one or two track deficiencies should present no problem, but with conventional transport extra caution might be wise. Be absolutely certain, for instance, that the track is wide enough for both vehicle and caravan/trailer, keeping in mind extended mirrors, tight bends, and close trees or overhanging branches. Is there sufficient clearance underneath the RV? Are wheel-ruts in the track likely to result in dragging the bottom? Any mud, rocks, or steep sections? Could the drive in be made easier with some minor track repairs?

If you do locate a viable site, what’s it like overall? For example: Is it fairly level? Is there enough room to maneuver and turn your outfit around? Does it appear to be the local gathering place for motorized sleazoids? Is the site polluted beyond easy clean-up? Are there fences close by, or farmhouses within earshot? Is it far enough from passing traffic? Look up: Is there sufficient clear space to avoid parking the RV beneath overhanging branches? And if you’re set up for solar power, will panels receive enough sun? In forested areas, what’s the current fire danger status? Is the site adequate considering the length of stay you have in mind?

Yes, that’s quite a raft of questions. In fact, in your early days of bush camping a pocket checklist is not a bad idea. After a while, though, this whole ‘assessment’ process won’t take much longer than the walk in. Negatives tend to leap out at you!

Getting onto the site

OK. Everything looks pretty good so you decide to drive in.

Next rule: Take it slowly. If possible, have someone walking alongside to watch for any nasty surprises. Decide in advance what hand signals and yelling are meant to indicate. Nonetheless, the driver is the person in the hot seat, so tricky decisions are, ultimately, his or her call — within reason, of course.

As you negotiate a bush track in an RV, try to think in four dimensions: above, below, left and right. Visualise where the wheels are going — or where you want them to go — and what the rear of the RV is likely to do. Take the corners as widely as surrounding vegetation permits. If potentially damaging branches obstruct your path, get someone to hold them aside or, as a last resort, remove them.

Despite all this caution, if you get boxed in, don’t panic. Back up if possible, very carefully, and under the watchful eye of your outside guide. A caravanner’s worst-case scenario might involve unhitching, then re-hitching at an acute angle, with the vehicle now facing the preferred direction of travel. Not a lot of fun, but a long way short of dangerous. Besides, it’s all part of bush camping in an RV!

Setting up camp

Without doubt, you could strike one or two potential hazards, but most often you’ll reach the site without drama. Nevertheless, once you’re in there, still more decisions confront you! After checking once again for overhanging branches, where’s the best spot for the RV? If you want to use an awning, will it fit in the space available? With privacy in mind (ie, visibility from passing traffic), which direction should the outfit face? Does the site provide natural run-off in the event of heavy rain? Where might a campfire be set up to avoid filling the RV with smoke? Should RV or vehicle be positioned to form a windbreak?

Well, finally, you have the rig in position! However, if you need to get it level — for optimum performance of LPGas refrigeration — first check its side-to-side attitude (using a spirit level). If it needs to come up on one side, the quick solution is to drive (or tow) it onto suitable blocks of wood.

Having double-checked side-to-side, now check for level front-to-rear. To get this right, caravanners may need to resort to anything from complete unhitching, to minor elevation of the tow hitch using the jockey wheel (after setting van and vehicle handbrakes).

The point is, bush sites aren’t tourist parks. The job of leveling an RV may take a little time but is worth the trouble, not just for the fridge, but for your general comfort, too.

Finally, lower the stabilizers firmly onto (more!) blocks, chock the wheels if the site is sloping, and drop the step (if necessary). Now it’s time to take a well-earned break!

Getting comfy

Once you’ve recovered from the adrenalin surge, you might give some thought to making the camp comfortable. Most often, top of the list is an awning — and with an outside shelter in place, you’ll really start to feel at home. (By the way, on bush sites a full caravan annexe is rarely an option, no matter how good the site may be.)

A small garden rake is handy about now so that the area beneath the awning can be cleaned up a little, perhaps in preparation for some type of ‘floor’, such as a section of shade cloth. Obviously, for a stay of only one or two nights, you probably won’t bother. But with a floor down and a bit of camp furniture set up you can get yourself quite comfy.

Another job you might have to think about is the sullage outlet hose. A single-night stay presents no problem, but beyond that you don’t want kitchen water (and food particles) accumulating beneath the RV, attracting every ant and critter from miles around. It’s best to run the hose to a small pit covered with leaves or grass to give water a chance to soak away — while the flies are kept at bay.

Some other improvements to consider (though also time-dependent) might be:

· Establishing a bush toilet (and an obstacle-free path to it).

· Positioning a bush shower.

· Where to string a clothesline.

· Location for the generator.

· TV antenna.

· A campfire and firewood.

· Barbecue or outdoor kitchen.

· Rubbish container for non-burnables.

· Door mats (inside and out).

· Ant deterrents (plus removal of branches resting against the RV).

Other issues

In some parts of the country it is entirely possible to set up your RV for quite lengthy stays on bush sites. But there are a few issues that, while hardly worth considering for just a night or two, do increase in probability with the passage of time. No doubt the two of concern to most travelers are security and bad weather.

Security. Provided the site is reasonably concealed from passing traffic, and appears to hold little interest for others, all should be well. In any case, you might prefer to remain in ‘departure mode’ for the first night, avoiding the use of jacks, awnings, and so on. Also, if the main road is close by, keep lights and fires to a minimum, while maintaining a low profile but high awareness. Of course many travellers continue to rely on their trusty canine friend. Nevertheless, keep in mind that, in the bush, you are probably far safer than you ever were back home!

Bad weather. If you prepare for extreme weather before leaving home, you already have it beaten. By rigging awnings with adequate guy ropes, pegs and tensioners, having extra tarps on hand to cover anything stored outside, and by keeping a small mattock or shovel handy to redirect any pooling rainwater, inconvenience will be minor. Of course it does pay to keep up with local weather reports in an effort to stay one step ahead of these particular gremlins. And if the exit track becomes a little shabby, early departure may be the smartest option when foul weather sets in.

Like most bush campers, you’ll no doubt find that the first time is the hardest; so much to think about, so many minor concerns buzzing around in your head! Next morning, though, as the sun peeks through the trees, warming this private piece of real estate, I can guarantee that you’ll feel much better about the decision you made the night before.

From that point on, each bush camp just gets easier.



Motorhomes

Some of the Exciting Alaska Fishing Camps

Sunday, November 22nd, 2009
Ian Koch asked:


Alaska is a fantastic region; not only for fishing enthusiasts but for nature lovers from all over the world. It is said that when USA purchased Alaska from Russia many, many years ago, it made the best bargain ever. And people who lives there or has been there will understand why. This territory is famous all over the world for it’s hunting and fishing capabilities, it’s purity and cleanness and it’s wild and exotic nature sceneries.

Alaska fishing camps are available in plenty that serve as an excellent entertainment and sports center for those who are inclined to fishing. Some of the fishing camps are built on the lakes and the rivers to provide you an exciting experience that you can remember for your lifetime. These camps are excellent places for great fishing with deluxe tents and fine food served for you during camping. Thanks to a lot of competing companies you can get great service for a decent price from most of them.

We can categorize the camps based on the location of the camp. As a broad category we can divide them into South East Alaska fishing camps and the South Central Alaska fishing camps.

Some of the camps or lodges in the Southeast region are Alaskan Fishing Adventures, Glacier Bay Country Inn, and Sitka Point Lodge & Fishing Charters. ‘Alaskan fishing adventures’ is a world class fishing charter for the salmons. The lodging facility has 3 bedroom and 3 baths.

The boat used for the charter is powered by the Twin 225 Fourstroke Honda outboards. The rods and the reels used in the camp are from G Loomis and Penn. You may check out their website for more details on the price for the fishing charter and the lodging. There are many websites that give details of all the lodges and the fishing camps available in the Southeast region.

Some of the fishing lodges and Alaska fishing camps available in the South Central region are Wilderness Place Lodge by the Alaska Adventure Company, Alaska Rainbow Lodge, and Piscatorial Pursuits. The Wilderness Place Lodge is located in the famous Lake Creek. This location is famous for the salmon and the rainbow fishing in Alaska.

Fly-fishing is a specialty of this camp. Log lodges are available right on the river for a wonderful and exciting experience. Personal guides are available for your fishing trips. Check out their websites for more details on the lodges and the fishing camps available throughout Alaska!



Caravan Rentals

Top Four Camping Tips For Beginners

Friday, November 6th, 2009
Benedict Smythe asked:


Camping is sure fun. Exploring the outdoors overnight is a splendid activity that you should share with your friends and your family. However, regardless of the fun and enjoyment that you are trying to attain, keep in mind hat camping is not all fun. If you want to make the most of it, you ought to be fully prepared. Below are some tips that can help you become an avid camper

Plan ahead

This is the most important tip that you should keep in mind. If you want to make your camping adventure a complete success, make sure that you plan ahead. Planning consists of a variety of things. The first of which is to choose the best campsite and to become very familiar with it. After choosing where you are headed, make sure that you know how to get there and what are the activities that you can do in the camping site. Create an itinerary for your trip. Other than that, prepare all the equipment that you will need- the most important of which are your sleeping bags and your camping tent. Also, pack adequate food, beverages, and clothing. Do not forget to bring a map and a first aid kid.

Ask an experienced camper to accompany you

Camping can somehow be dangerous especially if you are a newbie. Even if you are well prepared for it, it will be best if you will have someone experienced to come with you on your first time. If you can, be a part of a camping group. Aside from being a lot safer in the company of skilled and experienced campers, camping with them can prove to be a very educational experience as you will probably learn essential tricks of the trade.

Consider your phase, start safe

Recognize your real capabilities and skills as a camper. As a beginner, you should take the art and science of camping on a step by step basis. You can ensure your safety by matching your camping activities with your level of skills and knowledge in your chosen endeavor. In your first trip as a camper, do what first timers typically do. In choosing a camping site, never go deep into the forest or up a very high mountain. Never take bigger risks in your initial attempt. Apply the cliché, “take things slowly but surely.”

Be extremely aware of the camp site

Unlike your home, your campsite might be a place for exploration but it will not promise you the same set of comfort, safety, and security that you find at your home. As such, you have to take extra precautionary measures when you are camping outdoors.

Be aware of your surroundings especially the various environmental factors that exist in your campsite. Make sure that you are well aware of the fauna and flora that exist in your surroundings. Familiarize yourself with the wildlife in your campsite. Always check the warnings and bulletins around. Be aware of potential hazards such as lions, bears, snakes and other dangerous animals that might be lurking in the forest. Be aware of the poisonous flowers and fruits that might be growing around the area as well. Always carry a first aid kit.



Touring Caravans

Your Essential Camp Cooking Checklist

Saturday, October 24th, 2009
Nicole Munoz asked:


One of the most fun things to do during a camping trip is camp cooking. Why? Because eating is one of the best things in life! Most people who are passionate about food and have flair for the sense of taste would agree with this. A grand feast of sumptuous camping meals would definitely make a camping vacation a great experience.

But because cooking entails quite an effort and some equipment to bring, avoid the scenario of forgetting an important ingredient or an essential cooking utensil by creating a menu of the dishes you intend to cook for the family and from here create a checklist of things to bring.

Here’s a sample of a camping cooking checklist with a few cooking tips to make your life easier. Be sure to add any personal food item or cooking utensil you can’t do without.

• Main ingredients of the dishes and meals you plan to cook. It’s a good idea to measure ingredients back at home, put them in ziplock bags with labels. This will make cooking much easier and faster and save you space in your bags. It’s also better if you half cook meat or poultry at home also to save fuel in the camp trip.

• Other cooking necessities like cooking oil, seasonings and condiments.

• Cookware like pots, pans, frying pans that you’ll need for the meals in the menu. Don’t forget the lids because these will enable you to save a lot of cooking time since dishes cook faster when covered.

• Cooking and eating utensils like spatula, tongs, grill skewers, knives, spoons, forks, plates, bowls, cups, can and bottle openers.

• A Coleman camping stove. Be sure to bring one that will suit your camping needs: size of cooking you intend to do, type of camping activity and fuel preference.

• Camp or barbecue grill

• Lighter or matches. Even though most Coleman stoves have electronic ignition, it’s still good that you have these to use for other purposes like lighting up a grill.

• Fuel for your Coleman camping stove

• Large water jug, water bucket. Camping activities may drain your energy. You need a lot of water to reenergize and prevent yourself from dehydrating.

• Coolers, ice chest and ice. These are important because you’d want a cold drink to quench your thirst. It’s a smart idea to bring a large block ice instead of cubes because the former last much longer.

• Potholders and oven mitts to prevent anybody from getting scalded.

• Thermos

• Portable water heater

• Dishwashing soap

• Folding tables and chairs and table cloth

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil and ziplock bags which serve a variety of purposes like for wrapping leftover food, for storing ingredients and many others.

• Paper towels and napkins

• Trash bags. Be sure to leave the camp site in a spick and span state.

After a whole day of spectacular views to see, exciting and fun activities to do, the best thing to look forward to aside from a comfortable rest is a great sumptuous meal that entice your taste senses. Bon Apetite!



Holiday Parks

Camping Tips For a Great Outdoor Camp

Tuesday, September 22nd, 2009
Benedict Smythe asked:


Camping is for everyone. Undeniably, people of all ages cannot help but have an innate fondness of packing their things and spending the night outdoors in an open environment. Basically, camping is one of the most productive forms of recreation. It does not only serve as a precious bonding moment for large groups and couples alike. Instead, it can be a very informative and educational tour.

Before you set out for camp however, make sure that you are well aware of the following camping tips:

a. Before you plan for your camping vacation, make sure that you have checked the weather forecast. Obviously, you will have to avoid storms and hurricanes. If your vacation is set on a day that will have an unpleasant weather, it will be best if you reschedule your camping adventure.

b. In preparing for your camping activity, the first thing that you should do is to pick a camping site. The choice of camping site will tell you what equipment, tools, food, and clothing that you ought to bring during your vacation.

c. In preparing the equipment, make a camping checklist first. Without a checklist, you might end up forgetting a thing or two of the most crucial equipment that you need. Pack your things according to your list and make sure that you have categorized the gear and tools.

d. Before setting your camping tent, make sure that you have thoroughly checked your camping site. Check your surroundings for nearby warning signs and advisory regarding poisonous herbs, fruits and vines. Watch out for warnings about bear, snake, or lion sightings. Make sure that the place is genuinely safe. To be certain that the place is really secure; find out if the local authorities and officials recognize the site as an official camping area.

e. Before you set your camping tent, you should remove all the rocks and branches from your camping grounds. Make sure that the ground is flat so you can set up your tent quite perfectly.

f. Choose a campsite that is generally peaceful and interesting. Bear in mind that the main purpose of camping out is to relax and have fun. Make sure that your campsite is comfortable for sleeping at night.

g. If you are camping out with your family and friends, make sure that you have packed enough food and clothing. Check if the tent sizes are appropriate for the number of people who are going to occupy the tent.

h. If you are camping out with your kids, make sure that you have checked their packs. Although you can let them pack their things, supervise your kids. It will be best to pack extra clothes and food for them since they are more likely to end up wet, dirty, and hungry most of the time.

i. Keep in mind that most tent sizes do not include spaces for your gear, tools, food stocks, and beverages. That is why it will be better if you bring an extra tent that will serve as your storage area. Do not forget to bring a separate cloth bag for your dirty laundry.

j. Keep your campsite safe and clean. Make sure that your gears, tools, and food are properly stored. Keep your food in close containers that are compartmentalized. Make sure that your camp fire is far away from your storage area and never leave the fire unattended.



Holiday Homes UK

Have the Best Camping Experience by Bringing a Reliable Tent

Tuesday, September 15th, 2009
Nicole Munoz asked:


One of the best rewards that we can probably give ourselves is to get away from the busy lives of the city and be able to be one with nature. A nice camping trip with our love ones is a good idea. But before you pack your things and hit the road, make sure that you have the right camping gear. One of the most important must have gears is the camping tent. To help you look for the best tent, here are some helpful tips.

The first thing that you have to consider before any purchase is the budget. Make sure that you have allocated enough to purchase a high quality tent. This will ensure that you get a durable tent without overspending.

In shopping for a tent you have to think of your needs. Think of where you usually camp and during what season, this will help you get the appropriate tent. Tents are usually made specifically for a particular season. Your need for summer camping is different from winter camping.

Another thing that you have to consider is the number of people who will be using the tent. If you don’t want to have different sizes of tents stored at home, it is advisable that you pick the tent that can cater the size of your family especially when you camp with them most of the time. You can also have a two person tent if you usually camp in small groups. Think of the weight of the tent as well if you are planning to go backpacking.

Check the different features offered by the tent as well. A lot of manufacturers have added different features to give additional comfort to their customers. But don’t base your purchase to added features alone.

Think if it is really helpful to you and compare prices. You might be paying a lot for added features you don’t even need.

Check the durability of the product as well. If you don’t know how to identify which one is durable, bring a friend who knows how. Check if the coating is thick enough for heavy usage. Make sure that it can withstand strong rain and will protect you from unwanted insects. This may cost more but it will surely be a worthy investment.

Consider the color of the tent as well. If you are usually camping on summer, choose tents with lighter colors as they give a cooler ambiance. On the other hand, darker colors are suggested if you usually camp during the cold seasons.

Consider the manufacturer as well. It is best to pick a tent manufactured by a trusted name. Make sure that you get a tent that is known for having high quality. Choose a product that gets good reviews from users and experts.

Your camping trip will be very memorable if you have the right camping gear with you. Getting the right kind of tent will surely make your camping trip worthwhile. Don’t risk having a wonderful camping experience by taking your tent for granted.



Caravan Finance

LED Flashlights And Other Equipment For An Inexpensive Camping Adventure

Thursday, September 3rd, 2009
Ben Anton asked:


Life’s like a MasterCard commercial and so is camping. This means everything costs something but memories made are priceless. Memories can be made in a cost effective manner. Maximizing the fun and minimize the money spent is possible if you know some ways to reduce costs. The most effective way of having a memorable camping vacation is to create a budget and follow these tips and tricks for camping efficiently. The key is to have some key pieces of equipment that can be used in a variety of ways and that will last a long-time. This will allow you to enjoy the benefits of the equipment without worrying about the long-term effects of the cost.

It is frustrating trying to put together a quality set of camping supplies on a limited amount of money but it is very possible. First off, develop a list of equipment priorities. The camp site location and the fuel to get there is a primary necessity. Food and water to last for the length of your stay would come next. Other important tools to include in your camping equipment list are a long-lasting flashlight or lantern, multi-purpose knife, extra batteries, a first-aid kit and matches to build a campfire. Camping supplies such as tents, sleeping bags, and chairs will make camping comfortable and will keep you warm and dry. The secondary list of camping items would include hobby tools and equipment like those for boating, cycling, or fishing.

Camp Site Location and Getting There

Campground prices usually weigh in a $12 to $25 per night. Call the campground ahead of time to determine prices at your local state or national parks. Also, consider whether the campground you are going to has running water, bathroom and shower facilities, charcoal grills and trash disposal areas. Depending on whether the grounds have these you may need to add or take away items from your camping list. Additionally, estimate gas money ahead of time to ensure you are prepared.

Food and Water

Include in your camping list the coolers, water jugs, paper or plastic plates, and cups you may need while camping. Investing in reusable camping dishes is a benefit for families that camp often and saves on the environment as well. Purchase enough food to last the course of your camping vacation and be smart about buying non-perishable foods wherever possible. About $200 should be allotted for food and gas. This should cover your needs for about a 2-3 day trip, depending on how many people you are feeding and how far you plan to travel.

Camping Tools and Equipment

There are several items that are camping essentials. A multi-purpose tool or knife is essential for safe and effective camping. A multi-purpose survival knife will come in handy for cutting string or twine to hold down tents or hang tarps during rainy weather. It can also be used for opening canned food, gutting fish, and fixing other camping equipment should it break. There are a number of brands and styles of survival knives available. Find a good, quality one and keep it with your camping equipment at all times.

Quality lights are also important camping equipment. The most cost effective light for camping is a LED flashlight or LED lantern. They last longer than the usual fluorescent or incandescent bulb and are more resistant to breaking. This is very important if you are camping deep in the forest where it will get darker quicker or if you will be hiking to your destination. Having a long-lasting, dependable LED lantern or flashlight will give families extra reassurance of safety. LED lighting products are sometimes more expensive than regular camping lights but their longevity and bright light make them a smart investment.

Altogether, it is estimated that the cost of camping will be approximately $300-$400, making camping and spending time in nature a relatively inexpensive alternative vacation. Planning out your camping vacation: a quality, well-stocked campsite, food and water, tents and sleeping bags, survival knife, and long-lasting flashlights will help you spend a budget wisely and even save money in the long-term. This means more memories that last a lifetime.

~Ben Anton, 2007



UK Holiday Homes

Camping Gear For Comfort and Convenience

Monday, August 10th, 2009
Nicole Munoz asked:


Camping is one of the best recreational outdoor activities in the world. Camping, which became popular in the early twentieth century, include a variety of activities.

Survivalist campers challenge the wilderness with little more than the clothes they have on their backs. Recreational campers, on the other hand, set off with equipment that can provide electricity, heat, and comfort. Camping can be enjoyed by itself, but many activities are often done in conjunction with other outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, fishing, rafting, or backpacking.

Usually, the participants, known as campers, undertake this activity to get away from busy, urban lifestyles and enjoy the beauty of nature. At such, they spend a night or two at a campsite. Most camping is done in national parks, publicly owned natural places, and privately owned campgrounds although more adventurous campers can take up the challenge of camping in wild, uncharted regions.

Walking, traveling, and sleeping outdoors is fun, but you would need some camping gear to enjoy relative comfort. Even the staunchest survivalist who is camping outdoors would rather be snuggled in a thin blanket when sleeping than just lying down on cold, hard ground with only a jacket on.

Here is a list of camping gear that can make your outdoor experience a more delightful, enjoyable, and comfortable experience. The camping gear listed here are by no means essential for survival or complete but would offer you convenience and comfort that will make the experience closer to living at home.

1) Cooler - a small cooler filled with ice can keep cold drinks cold. Remember that some drinks are best drunk when it is chilled rather than at room temperature. Ice-filled coolers can also keep meat, vegetables, and fish fresh, acting as a portable refrigerator.

2) Foldable furniture - sitting on hard ground or rocks can be terribly uncomfortable. Camping gear such as collapsible chairs can make sitting more comfortable, and folding camping tables make food serving more convenient and less messy.

3) Cookwear - pots, skillets, and pans allow you to cook a variety of dish rather than settling on just grilled meat on a skewer over a campfire. They allow you to boil water, sauté vegetables, or steam meat, making the camp a little bit homier.

4) Generator - this piece of camping gear is necessary if you plan to bring electronic equipment such as a television, an electric grill, or a sound system. Even the most compact generators are heavy, so it is not a good idea to bring one if you plan to pack light. If you are carrying small electronic devices-a stereo, for example-it would be better to bring batteries.

5) Electronic devices - portable TVs, stereos, video game consoles, laptops, and similar things let you keep in touch with the world and provide you with modern entertainment while you are out there in the wilderness.

6) Portable stoves - this camping gear allows you to cook food without having to experience the hassle of making a campfire. A stove is also safer; you can control the flame easier, and the flame is not as big as a campfire’s.

Remember that this camping gear is optional. Before even considering bringing these, make sure that you have brought the essentials such as warm clothes, a tents, and a sleeping bag, a first aid kit, and others.



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