North Carolina, Raleigh- Adventure lovers look forward to camping. Therefore, we offer a series of tips to do it in a practical and safe way.
And camping involves several activities, such as pedaling, resting, and cooking, among many others. That is why it is good to consider various aspects.
The site
The first decision is where to camp. Generally the choice is between a wild place or something more civilized. Something wild would be a forest, a beach, a distant place. Not all of those places are dangerous. Another option is something closer to civilization, like a garden, a train station, or even an airport.
Geographic orientation
Experts recommend always being oriented regarding the cardinal points. Accordingly, colder or hotter places may be found, depending on the choice. Also based on this, there will be more or less light at dawn.
The road
When the idea is to camp near a road, it should be considered that, if it is located in a sloping area, it is better to camp on an elevated area, both for safety and discretion reasons.
Now, if the road has a curve, it is better to sleep inside it for the following reasons:
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The lights of the vehicles will not interfere, as they always illuminate the outside
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You will have greater discretion when you are in a dark area
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In the event that a vehicle goes off the curve, those camping will be safe inside.
Prior inspection
It is always prudent to check the area. There are places that from afar may seem pleasant and safe, but when you get to the area they can become quite the opposite.
Take advantage of the light
It is advisable to work (prepare camping) in sunlight.
Water, key element
About two or three hours before camping you have to fill the tanks because sometimes it is unpredictable knowing where a new source or tap will be found to fill them.
It must be considered that camping without water or with a shortage of it means not being able to wash, not being able to cook, and not drinking anything throughout the night. You must carry all the water you need.
Food
The worst mistake is to bring the exact food for the day. It is possible to change your mind and want to camp longer.
A worse case is getting sick and having to stay longer than expected. Allan Coto, an expert in the art of camping, says: “I always carry an emergency package of spaghetti. It weighs little and can take away my hunger at least for a couple of days.”
Details
Even the colors of the store vary, depending on the location. In general, green or a dark tone is used. However, to go to the mountains, an orange tent is recommended. The color red would be appropriate for going to a festival.
Other aspects to consider are fire, lights, or music, always respecting the environment.
Fire
Without a doubt, those who love camping also enjoy making a fire in the middle of a cold night, but you have to know how to do it. Precautions should be taken in this regard: It should not be done in very dry areas or hot climates. Nor on days when there is a lot of wind. If possible, a quantity of water or sand should be kept on hand to extinguish it in case of emergency.
Find out, ask
It is always good to ask and receive help. You can ask people who live nearby if the place is safe for camping and general aspects.
watch out for animals
From the smallest ones, such as mosquitoes and ants, to the large ones such as bears, wolves or lions, information must be obtained on which ones are present in the selected area.
Humidity
There are areas near lakes, rivers, and beaches where there is a lot of humidity at night. Therefore, leaving clothes outside should be avoided. An effective way to know if moisture exists is to touch an external surface.
Pendant
If there is rain, wind, or snow, the option is to look for a roof that represents having shelter. For example, a bridge or an abandoned house may be options.
Soil
It is key to look at the type of floor where the tent will be placed. Dry or clay soil can become muddy in the event of rain. Other terrain can form puddles and end up camping in a kind of pool.
Cordiality
It is always recommended to be friendly to the locals, put on your best smile and greet them.
All ready
When it's time to go to rest, it is best to have all your equipment ready in case an emergency arises in the early morning.
Lantern
A spotlight or flashlight is always a good ally. But it is not only about carrying it, but also having it on hand when it is needed.
Sleeping
Although the idea is to sleep in the tent, another possibility - if possible - is to sleep in full contact with nature, seeing the stars and even some animals. Of course, there must be security that there are no dangerous animals in the environment.
Security before everything
Many people prefer to camp with a dog to alert them in cases of danger. Another tip is to place small bells in specific places so that if someone approaches, a kind of alarm is generated.
An additional recommendation is to place a piece of plastic on top of the tent so that it makes noise in case someone approaches.
Cleanliness
Garbage must be managed correctly. If it is organic waste, it should be thrown away from the store so as not to attract animals.
The place must be left exactly as it was found upon arrival. There should be no trash left behind. It is always good to set an example.
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