TIPS FOR SETTING UP CAMP from Little Family Adventures
These next few tips are universal no matter where you go camping:
- Setting up the campsite shortly after you arrive – This task is best done at the beginning of the campout and not after it gets dark. Whenever possible, let the kids help out and assist with set up.
- Set up tent in an area with partial shade – This helps protect the tent against the midday sun. If there are no trees around to help provide that shade, a tarp hung over the tent will also help. Shielding the tent from the sun will help keep the interior of your tent cooler and more comfortable at night.
- Set up your tent a short distance away from your cooking/campfire area – Ten feet away is the distance we strive for. It provides a reasonable space away from the campfire smoke or any ash/embers that blow out of the campfire.
- Prepare your tent foundation – Pick up any rocks or twigs where the tent will be laid over. This provides a smoother surface to lie on and reduces the chance the tent floor will snag or tear. Lay a tarp down over that cleared area to protect the bottom of the tent from other debris and provide a water barrier.
- Let the kids help set up camp – Everyone can help set up camp. Give the kids the task of setting up the sleeping area by laying out all the bags. This is a great chore to let the kids help out and be in charge of.
- Prevent headaches – If your tent is on a slope or incline, place the sleeping bags so that your head is facing uphill. Otherwise you’ll wake up with a killer headache.
- Create a family sized sleeping bag if needed – You can create a larger “family sized” sleeping bag by zipping two rectangular bags together.
- Too warm for a sleeping bag – If the night time temperatures are too warm to sleep inside your bag, you can open it up and use it as a base. Then add a flat sheet or light blanket on top.
- Lock away everywhere when not in camp – Local wildlife are accomplished snatch and grab artists. So don’t leave food or garbage out unattended, day or night. Store everything in a large plastic bin and lock it in your vehicle when you are away and at night. If camping in bear country, check the local rules on bear lockers.
