While the current generation’s lives may have been characterized by touch screens and social media, studies show that enthusiasm about camping is actually on the rise amongst American families and specifically young people. Fifty-one percent of families in the United States went camping last year, and the number of people participating in this pastime has increased a million people every year since 2014.
It can be intimidating to get into camping as a novice, especially when it seems like everyone else knows what they are doing. Here are some very basic tips for the most novice of campers, learned from our camping experiences with Green River Mini Storage.
Tents are not as big as they claim
If a tent is advertised as being a “four-person tent”, that usually means that four people can physically lay down in it–but that doesn’t mean it will be roomy enough for an extended stay. As a general rule of thumb, we find that you need to double the amount of people a tent will sleep for everyone you hope to fit in there. Often, it’s not a lot more expensive to go a bit bigger, and that extra space can definitely come in handy.
Buy a tarp for under your tent
Using a tarp under your tent is a good idea–it keeps the bottom of the tent from getting as worn down, it keeps the tent cleaner when being packed up, and it can help with moisture when the ground is wet or it’s raining.
Do a test run setting up your tent before actually camping
If possible, try setting up your tent a few times at home or in the yard before attempting it on your first camping trip. There’s nothing worse than getting to your campsite at night, in the rain, and realizing that it’s going to take a while to figure out how to set up your cover.
Rake the ground under your tent before setting it up
Using a rake on the ground before you set your tent up can help remove any stones or sticks that may make sleeping uncomfortable–especially if you don’t have any mats or mattresses between you and the ground.
Dig a trench around the tent
Digging a trench around the tent can help protect it from puddles during downpours. Rain doesn’t have to ruin your trip–it just may take some special prep to make sure your bedding doesn’t get soaked.
Bring a mat for outside your tent entrance
Having some type of light, easy to store mat for the front of your tent will help keep your tent clean, and can be a place to leave your boots or shoes before stepping into the tent.
Air it out at home
After returning home, let your tent have some time to air out while set up, without anything inside. This will keep it in good shape and keep away mildew and mold while in storage.
Hopefully this will give you the confidence to start doing some research and planning for your first camping experience! There’s a reason that camping is gaining popularity throughout the years–it’s an affordable way to spend time with those you love, enjoy the great outdoors, and explore our country.
At Self Assured Storage, we love helping our customers pursue the things they love–if space is an issue for you, an affordable, climate-controlled storage unit is a great place to keep your camping gear safe and dry when you’re not using it. Give us a call today to see how we can help protect your investments, whether it’s camping gear, tools, keepsakes, or furniture!
