Those who do not spend their vacations and weekends trudging through the wilderness may think camping is simple and requires little more than a tent and some sunscreen. The truth is, preparing for a safe camping or hiking trip requires a lot of careful planning. There are things you need to be prepared for when spending time in the wilderness that are not an issue if you are relaxing in a hotel room or lounging by the beach.

Getting back to basics can be a challenge, but it can also be a great deal of fun if you stay safe. If a camping trip is in your future, decide now what activities you will want to do once you are out there and make sure you have all of the gear you need before leaving. For instance, if you are camping near a river, you will need to have kayak anchors or kayak leashes, or be sure to have canoe materials or other boating equipment. It is important to make sure your gear is in good repair and that you have things you can trust once your plans are in action.

In addition to river fun, you will need to have shelter. While sleeping out underneath the stars is a great idea in theory, the weather does not always cooperate. Plan ahead to deal with inclement situations and then if the weather holds up, move your sleeping bag out under the stars. The important thing is to be sure you have a sturdy, easily assembled tent, just in case. Those who prefer a bit more protection or a bit more of the comforts of home can utilize a pop-up camper or RV. These vehicles vary in size and price. Take into account how often you plan to use the item before buying.

Next, be sure you have the right clothing for your trip. Different seasons require different camping wear. You will also want to account for temperature changes from day to evening. When you are in the woods, you will notice a more dramatic change in temperature once the sun goes down. Also be sure you have comfortable, sturdy hiking boots and bring along a few extra changes of clothes just in case you find yourself in a storm or accidentally taking a tumble into a river or stream. This is especially true for socks and footwear.

Once you know how many days you will be camping, you can plan to purchase the right amount of food. It is important to stay fed and hydrated while in the wilderness, and you will also want to make sure you store your food items properly. Bring along a few extra snacks and do not forget fun stuff like hot dogs and marshmallows for the campfire.

Finally, be sure you have the appropriate amount of safety equipment. This can range from simple conveniences like bug spray to a weapon to protect yourself from attacking wildlife. Determine where you will be camping and check the recommendation guides from others who have experience camping in your chosen area.