Camping is a great way to get in touch with the great outdoors. Nothing can beat the feeling of waking up to the sound of a river, stream or a waterfall. The best part of camping is that it is an activity enjoyed with family and friends, so it makes for a great outing.

However, as thrilling as camping is, there are measures one should take to ensure the trip goes successful.

Picking the right camping spot

Picking the right spot for camping is vital to a successful camping trip. For first timers, picking a campsite closest to your home is a good idea. The closer the location, the sooner you can get there and jump into the thrill of camping. Also, be sure to book the campground beforehand, as the popular campsites tend to get booked quickly so it is better to book ahead of time to ensure a spot for you.

Also, be sure to do your research on the campsite. Useful go-to resources can be found in The National Park Service and other organizations with websites that share information about campgrounds online.

What to bring

When camping, you want to be careful not to over pack. Carrying too many items can be heavy and pointless. Here are some basics that should assist you on your trip:

• Durable backpack – make sure to get a bag with plenty of pockets to store the various items you are carrying, especially if you decide to take a hike.
• Sleeping bag – make sure the sleeping bag is comfortable and will keep you warm at night. You can also purchase a sleeping pad to put under the bag so the bag doesn’t touch the cold ground.
• First aid kit – take the basics – Band-Aids, wraps and basic medicines.
• Clothes – remember an extra pair of clothes. Be sure to check the weather and pack clothes accordingly. You may also need to pack extra socks and thermal if you are going in a cooler season.
• Pocketknife – a utility knife can be helpful on the trail.
• Batteries – pack extra batteries for your electronic equipment.
• Matches – starting a campfire with matches is much easier.
• Compass – if you want to go for a hike, the compass can come in handy.
• Sunscreen
• Food and water- bring enough supply to last your whole trip.

Picking a tent

The selection of the tent depends on the number of people you take as well as the durability required for the season you’re camping.

Regardless of the tent you choose, it is important to choose a durable tent. It should be made of breathable fabric like nylon or polyester so that the moisture from inside the tent is released and water from outside does not come in. Most tents come with mosquito screens and vents so you may want to look into purchasing a tent with those options.

Camping is definitely an experience to share with family and friends. Nothing beats sitting with one another on a campfire, telling stories while sharing s’mores. Just be sure to be prepared for the trip otherwise it may not be as exciting as you anticipate.