Check Out These Camping Hacks, Then Add Your Own

Are you a camper?  Do you love to get out into the wilderness and enjoy all that it has to offer?  If you are, then you are among the millions of Americans that participate in the activity of camping each and every year.  We all do it differently…to a point.  Some in RVs, some in cabins (not sure I would call that camping), and some in tents. 

Every year we pack up the family trickster and head to somewhere in the Adirondacks.  We have special things that we do, but I always love to hear about new ideas, tips, and tricks to make camping more enjoyable for all.  There are a lot of camping hacks out there, but check out some of these and maybe give them a try the next time you are out in woods or by the lake.  If you have any others you would like to suggest, that would be awesome!  I can always use new ideas!

1.        I learned that you should bring a tarp when ten camping.  20 x 20 should be enough, along with extra tent stakes and some paracord, to make a shelter over your tent.  If you live in Central New York, you know that the rain con be unpredictable, so this makeshift shelter definitely helps to keep things drier.

2.       Years ago, we purchased a cast iron skillet.  They cook more evenly, and their easy to clean.  You can use them right on your campfire.  Careful pulling it out.

3.       Bringing firewood?  Make sure you get all the information from your campground about local rules and regulations regarding transport of firewood.  Due to infestations, many places don’t allow you to bring outside wood.  Most campgrounds offer wood for sale.

4.       Wet wipes.  Bring them.  They make for easy cleanup for when water and soap may not be readily available.

5.       Typically you don’t need as many clothes that you think you need.  Remember that you are camping.  It’s ok to wear a pair of cargo shorts more than once.  Really it is.  Ease up on the extra clothes unless you are just a super neat freak and can’t tolerate wearing clothes more than once.

6.       Starting a fire?  I’m sure you plan on having a campfire.  Take cotton balls, soak them in petroleum jelly (sterno) and put them in a pill bottle or container that will close securely.

7.       If you are doing some really rough camping, take some baking soda with you.  It can be used for things like brushing teeth, soothing a stomach ache, deodorizing, absorbing moisture and as a mild abrasive.

8.       Get some blue automotive towels rather than your run of the mill brawny towels.  These are much stronger and can be used for many things.  I’ve even seen them used as a wick for a citronella lamp.

These are just a few that I have come across over the years.  I’m sure you have some of your own.  Feel free to share!