Camping is definitely a great way to spend one’s vacation. The great outdoors is indeed a good venue to take time off from the hustling and bustling city with the fresh air and nice view that is a welcome replacement to your daily dose of smog and dust.

However, many people are hesitant about taking camping trips especially those who have pets. While pet hotels are now widely available, a lot of dog owners could not bear to be separated from their beloved canines even for just a few days.

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One great idea to do is bring Fido along on the camping trip. Of course there are advantages as well as disadvantages with bringing your pet dog camping, it is therefore important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding to take Fido along on your trip.

The Pros of Taking Your Pet Dog Camping

Bringing your pet dog camping can be very exciting for both you and your canine friend. The outdoors can be very stimulating for an animal that has spent much of its time in a yard or a secluded doghouse. Your dog would greatly be excited to see, smell, and hear new things. The fresh air of the woods can be very advantageous to your dog’s health. The camping site can also be a great venue for the dog to exercise since you are most likely going to do a lot walks in the forest.

Campsite Snippet. Your camping supply list should have lots of carbohydrates for the necessary fuel for trekking and keeping the body warm. Cook easy food, which at the same time is appetizing, like one-pot meals or check out our info on easy camping recipes for suggestions.

Bringing your pet dog along can also free you of worries and the anxiety of leaving him or her behind. This gives you peace of mind during a time when you are supposed to be relaxing. While pet hotels have been really made to be safe for you pets, seeing your pet all the time is usually the best way to make sure they are safe and are being treated the way you want them to be.

When you bring your dog along, you can also do a lot of activities. You can take your dog on hunts for bugs and other small animals. You can play catch and fetch. Dogs can be great company for long walks. They can also help guard you from dangerous animals and nosy campers. Dogs are great protectors in the wild. A dog can even help you find your way back to your campsite in case you get lost.

Campsite Snippet. Sleeping Bags. Check that your sleeping bag is rated appropriately for the weather you are going camping in. You don’t want to take a -30 rated sleeping bag on a summer camping trip, or vice versa.

The Cons of Taking Your Pet Dog Camping

Taking your dog camping can indeed be fun, however it can also be a hassle. Dogs can get too excited in the outdoors. They can get rowdy and misbehave because of the new sights, sounds and smells that agitate them. Dogs may also be frightened by the wild animals they might encounter in the woods. Being introduced to a large space may also exhaust your dog especially if it is old.

Bringing your dog along may give you extra things to worry about. Dogs may get lost in the woods and it would really be stressful on your part if they do. Your might constantly need to check on your dog, giving you extra tasks during a time when you are supposed to be relaxing. Your dog can also be extra noisy especially at night, disturbing your sleep and the quiet moments. Dogs may easily get into accidents outdoors as there are many hidden dangers that lurk in the forest. They might run into cliffs or get entangled in bushes. They may get attacked by wild animals or get bitten by snakes and rodents. They may even catch ticks that could cause Lyme disease.

Campsite Snippet. As with any prepackaged food you will probably find most camping food portion/serving sizes extremely optimistic or after a long day of hiking..

Dogs may even restrict you from doing certain activities in the campsite. Some areas in national parks do not allow dogs and other pets and thus you might not be able to gain access to such areas if you bring your dog. Dogs may provoke wild animals and cause and you may be greatly bothered by them.

Taking your pet dog camping can have its merits and demerits. You have to carefully decide whether to bring your dog or not. If you do so, it is best to check with your dog’s veterinarian to make sure that your best friend is fit for the outdoors.

The choice is up to you whether you should bring your dog camping. If you do decide to bring Fido along, enjoy the moment together, after all, your dog is your best friend.

Campsite Snippet. Some camping foods can now be heated with a heating pouch by adding water to a chemical heating source. The advantage is there’s no flame.

Camping and Dogs

The hardest thing about going on camping trips is getting a good night’s sleep. Being out in the woods on the trail will certainly expose you to nature’s worst. While you shelter yourself against the elements with a good tent, only a proper sleeping bag will help give you a good night’s rest to power you up for the next day of activities.

While finding a “be all and cure-all” sleeping bag is virtually impossible, it is however, possible to find a bag that will keep you comfortable for most trips – if not all.

Campsite Snippet. Most camping tents are designed for round the year use and are very carefully built so that the tent is able to withstand hail, slate, strong winds, blinding rain and so on. While camping tents are available in bright colors, if the camper wants to go unnoticed in wilderness, it is best if he chooses hues that might help him to camouflage.

When choosing a sleeping bag, take careful note of your needs. You will have to cater your choice of sleeping bags to the trips you most often make. Also, careful knowledge of the available types of sleeping bags will help you make a good decision regarding a sleeping bag.

The greatest issue when choosing a sleeping bag is whether to purchase a down or synthetic fill sleeping bag. Nothing provides comfort and warmth like down, and down is generally recommended for most outdoor camping trips with the family. However, in the event that it rains and your down-filled sleeping bags get wet, it is going to take forever to get your sleeping bags dry. Synthetic fill bags, on the other hand, give good warmth and dry quickly if ever they get wet. They are a bit heavier in comparison, though.

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If your needs revolve around general purpose camping trips, you will want to purchase a three-season sleeping bag. These bags generally have a temperature-comfort rating of 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are a more specialized camper – for instance if you like going camping on specific seasons – you will want to purchase a bag that caters to that season. If you like camping during the cooler seasons, go for sleeping bags that offer more warmth – and if you need a bag for warmer climes, go for breathable bags that keep you cool even during the hot seasons.

Check the bag before purchasing, they will usually have a temperature rating guide so that you can choose the bag suited to your needs. Most winter sleeping gear should be rated for minus 15 to 40 Fahrenheit, while summer sleeping bags should hold up to the 10 to 20 degree Fahrenheit rating.

Campsite Snippet. Winter camping is an interesting alternative to ordinary camping. When planning a winter camping trip, it is important to remember that speed reduces considerably in winter.

Here are few things you should look for in a good sleeping bag

1. Material – Most sleeping bags will be made of nylon, or polyester. These are the best kinds of material for sleeping bags. If you are a serious backpacker, try to avoid cotton material – especially the printed ones. If you are taking kids along, you will probably have to concede this point.

Campsite Snippet. If you already have a camping stove or other camping equipment that uses fuel consider getting a lantern that uses the same type of fuel so you won’t have to remember to bring both fuels and you’ll use less space too. Although some dual-fuel Coleman lanterns will burn both white gas or unleaded gasoline (check to be sure).

For added comfort while sleeping, look for bags that have a lining of taffeta or other non-cotton material. These materials, in comparison to plain nylon or even some cotton lining, are more comfortable, breathe better, and warm quicker.

2. Shape – The mummy shaped sleeping bag is pretty popular nowadays, however, some people find them constricting, especially those that want a lot of space to wiggle around in while sleeping. Mummy shaped bags tend to be snug and comfortable for some people, plus they warm quicker. Rectangular and semi-rectangular bags are great if you want a larger space to sleep in.

Campsite Snippet. When you buy a camping lantern make sure to get extra mantles, fuel, bulbs, and/or batteries, it’s not much fun needing a lantern part in the middle-of-nowhere and not being able to get it when you need it.

3. Accessories and zippers – Make sure the zippers are double-sided and allows for opening on both ends without any hassle. You may want to look out for zipper hooks as well, which prevent the bags from inadvertently opening up accidentally. Also look for insulated draft collars that help seal in the heat around the shoulders and around the neck.

Plus, dark colored bags are advisable since they absorb more heat and are easier to dry out than their lighter colored counterparts.

Campsite Snippet. Candle lanterns can be lightweight at 3.7 ounces, but you may not want to use them as a camping lantern as their light output leaves something to be desired at 1 to 1.

While all these tips come in handy, you may still want to test the bag itself to see if it fits your lifestyle. Some stores will allow you to test their products before selling them to you. If this is the case, don’t hesitate to jump into a bag to try it out.

With a good sleeping bag, you can look forward to more comfortable nights on your camping trips.

Campsite Snippet. While great LED lanterns put out a good amount of light I haven’t found one yet that can match the light output of well-designed flame camping lanterns. If you need a lot of light in a local outdoor area have a look at butane, propane, and gas lanterns.

Campers Sleeping Bags

How to Pick the Best Tent to Ensure a Comfortable and Safe Refuge While Camping An essential piece of equipment, your outdoor camping experience is largely dependent on the quality of your tent. Which is why there is a huge quantity to choose from. The first and simplest way so as narrow your tent choices is to decide the tent dimension that you require.

Tents are constructed to house a specific number of individuals. A solo backpacker will be looking for a tent that is much smaller than a family of campers that require a roomier tent. Almost all tents are labeled with description and their capacity which indicates how many individuals the tent can hold comfortably. Unless you are intent on having a collection of tents in different capacity or sizes, it is wise that you establish the largest number of individuals you believe will sleep in the tent. If you normally backpack with a companion but this summer is going solo, then it is wise to purchase a “two-person” tent.

Campsite Snippet. When you buy a camping lantern make sure to get extra mantles, fuel, bulbs, and/or batteries, it’s not much fun needing a lantern part in the middle-of-nowhere and not being able to get it when you need it.

Basically, there are four tent components: namely the poles, tent body, rain fly and the tarp which is some kind of footprint or ground cloth to extend your tent’s floor life.

Apart from these basic components, here are some guidelines in choosing the best tent for you:

1. Consider your needs. Know your particular camping requirements, such as where do you mostly go camping, at what season and would you be backpacking? And how many are you. These answers can give you a clear idea of what type of tent you will need.

Campsite Snippet. If you already have a camping stove or other camping equipment that uses fuel consider getting a lantern that uses the same type of fuel so you won’t have to remember to bring both fuels and you’ll use less space too. Although some dual-fuel Coleman lanterns will burn both white gas or unleaded gasoline (check to be sure).

2. Set your budget. When you allocate a budget before you go looking for a tent, most likely, you will not overspend.

3. Tent weight and size. How many individuals will be sleeping in the tent? The size of your tent will not really matter should you go “car camping”; however, if your intention is backpacking, then consider a “light-weight” tent.

Campsite Snippet. RV camping, or boondocking is growing in popularity. In fact, the BLM has begun to establish special areas for longer stays, particularly in Arizona.

4. Tent features. Today, there tent manufacturers offering a lot of features for their tents.

Mesh panels allow the breeze go in your tent at the same time keep the mosquitoes and bugs out, “shock-corded” tent poles allow speedy setup, waterproof and flame resistant for safety, a rain fly for added rain protection, etc. Make certain you choose the tent that best caters to all your basic requirements.

Campsite Snippet. While coolers and refrigerators can work well in some situations, ice or electricity is not always available making dehydrated/freeze dried food very attractive. While removing the water helps preserve camping food it also has another benefit.

5. Make certain that you select a durable fabric tent. It will cost you more money, however this is definitely an area worth it.

6. Select the proper tent color. Inspect how the color of the tent transmits light well into the interior. Certain colors generate a brighter interior, whereas others create a cave-like and dreary ambience.

Campsite Snippet. Check out what sort of camping gear you already have. While you might be keen to escape the modern world, it might not be so much fun if you’re sleeping on hard ground with a thin sleeping bag and it starts to rain.

Take note that light colors are best for summer camping since they tend to be cooler whereas dark colors are able to absorb solar energy so that they are great when camping in cold weather.

7. Check the tent’s coating. Remember that you must see a waterproof and shiny coating inside the floor and rain fly. If this is not visible or you can not feel this on the tent’s fabric, than it is not thick enough to withstand heavy use.

Campsite Snippet. It can be a bit more difficult to know what you need if you’ve never been camping before. Generally, a tent is necessity.

8. Know that your tent requirements when camping in the summer are very much different compared to camping in the snow.

Almost all tents available on the market have weather ratings. Make sure that you purchase a tent specifically made for a particular weather condition or season that you will be out camping.

Campsite Snippet. If you’re planning on cooking any food over the campfire, a good campfire grill makes life much easier. If there are fire restrictions or there’s no wood available for a campfire, then take along a camping stove.

9. Tent manufacturers. Various tent manufacturers have their unique design and name. Some are identified to make inexpensive tents, while others are well recognized to make high quality but expensive tents.

Popular tent makers are Coleman, Wenger, Eddie Bauer and Greatland Tents. Choose a tent manufacturer that has been trusted for years. While in the forest or wilderness the wrong camping equipment may not kill you, it can send you packing off to a motel and cause you to regret having planned a family campout. For that well-planned and enjoyable camping vacation, take your time when you purchase your tent.

Campsite Snippet. Just in case the stars aren’t sufficient, a strong torch with fresh batteries or a camping lantern can help. If you need to go wandering in the night, you’ll want to be able to check out your surroundings.

Remember, it will be your home for a few days. Having the right tent will keep you comfortable and warm especially on rainy and cold nights.

Campsite Snippet. Remember, in the end it’s important to travel light when you’re going camping. You don’t want to have so much stuff in your backpack that you can’t even lift it! It’s easy to get carried away and buy far too many things and spend a lot of money, but it doesn’t need to be that way.

Camping and Tents

No doubt about it, camping trips are fun. A vacation in the wild outdoors, fresh air, roughing it can be such a fun break from the hectic routine of city life.

However, a lot of people think they cannot enjoy or even survive a camping trip because of kids. Children can indeed add enjoyment to anybody’s life, but to be honest, it is really hard to bring kids along on a camping trip. Imagine having no television or computers to keep them busy (and quiet). For the average parent, that could spell disaster. But you should not despair; there are many activities in the outdoors that can keep kids entertained during a camping trip. Here are ten of them.

Campsite Snippet. The potential buyer is spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing his type of camping tent. Some campers need a lot of space and feel claustrophobic within a constricted area.

1. Get wet and go splashing. More likely, you would be able to find a nice swimming spot. Whether a big lake or a small brook, you are bound to locate a nice body of water to splash around and have wet fun. Swimming amidst nature can be so much more enjoyable than swimming in a man-made pool. Just be sure that the swimming hole you find is safe for people, normally camping parks would tell you which ones are good for dips and which ones are not. Also, be careful about diving and never leave your kids swimming alone.

2. Bike together. Most camping sites have great bike trails. Riding bicycles is very fun when the view is great. It is faster and cooler than just traveling on foot. Make sure to bring a map and plan your trip so that you would not easily get lost. Do not ride too fast, or you might leave each other behind, anyway, you would not be able to enjoy the scenery if you speed.

Campsite Snippet. I recall that when I first arctic campaign about everything at the camping store because I could get a feel of the other shoppers what’s was quality and what was unnecessary. Now that I’m more confident with what I’m doing, I order everything online.

3. Watch for birds and animals. Most camping sites and forest parks have primers and leaflets about the various animals thriving in their area. You may also bring books about wild animals and see if you could spot them. Try having a contest – the one who spots most kinds of animals wins. See the different animals that come out during the night and compare them to those that come out during the day. Just keep your children a safe distance away so that they will not disturb the animals.

4. Play games in the outdoors. It may be the classic sac race, tug-o-war, or just plain tag. Nothing beats the time-tested games when done in the woods. Just be sure to play games in a clear area to avoid accidents. Also, avoid creating so much noise so that you disturb the wildlife.

Campsite Snippet. RV camping, or boondocking is growing in popularity. In fact, the BLM has begun to establish special areas for longer stays, particularly in Arizona.

5. Organize a scavenger hunt. Kids love to go on quests and adventures. Scavenger hunts can be a great alternative to the role playing games kids play these days, not to mention that it is more physical, allowing your kids to exercise rather than just sit in front of the computer screen all day. Just warn your kids about the many prickly plants that could be lurking in the woods, such as poison ivy, oak and sumac.

6. Learn how to read maps and compasses. The great outdoors is a nice way to teach your children about navigation. Take out your map and compass while exploring the forest. Show your kids where you are on the map and show them where you are heading. This can also be done in conjunction with the scavenger hunt.

Campsite Snippet. It can be a bit more difficult to know what you need if you’ve never been camping before. Generally, a tent is necessity.

7. Light a campfire. Perhaps this is among the most awaited activities during camping. This can be the best way to end the day. Gather around the campfire to sing songs and tell stories (scary ones if you would like). Roast marshmallows and hotdogs. Play riddles and other word games.

8. Watch the stars. This is another night activity that can be both fun and educational. You may just simply lie on the ground and appreciate the free light show in the sky, or you may bring out a star chart and look for famous constellations and other heavenly bodies. Look for shooting stars and make your wish.

Campsite Snippet. No matter what the season, camping can be a wondrous experience and a welcome relief from the cramped confines of city life. With the proper preparation and camping gear, hikes and overnight stays in the outdoors can rejuvenate the mind and body.

9. Bathe in the rain. The weather can be unpredictable in many places, you cannot expect to have clear and sunny skies all the time. But do not pout if the rain does pour. You can have fun playing in the rain and enjoy mother earth’s natural shower. Just be careful not to go out when there is thunder and lightning.

10. Just relax and simply enjoy the moment. You are in the outdoors for only a few times in a year (or even in a lifetime). Enjoy what nature has to offer. Avoid bringing any electronic gadget and simply bask in the quiet of the forest. This is the time to bond and enjoy each other’s company.

Campsite Snippet. Meals around the campfire are just as much the centre of camping life as meals around the kitchen bench at home.

There are hundreds of other activities to do out doors, these ten are just a fraction of the many activities you can do with your kids on a camping trip. The point of it all is to enjoy spending the time together as a family.

Campsite Snippet. After all, these are among the special ingredients of a great camping cooking experience that truly lasts a lifetime.

Camping and Kids