Camping: Live it! Enjoy it! Remember it!

Ever wondered what the two most exciting times in the year are that we tend to spend over-the-top almost every time? Well if you're thinking your birthday maybe if your celebrating some kind of over the hill celebration! But those two most expensive times are Summer Vacations and Christmas. I guess you could spend that tax refund of yours on this summer vacation or if your just like the average American family, it takes all of six months to recover from a generous Christmas of gift giving. Then, after all that summer rolls along!

Let me give you a good alternative - camping! Yup. It is fun for the family, memorable most of the time and a new adventure for the entire family having a chance to have downtime away from it all!

Here are some essentials for camping:

* Book a camping site in advance. Just like with anything else that need reservation, the sooner you book your campsite the better your chances are that the dates you need will still be available. A good time would be at least three months in advance to six months if your booking Yosemite National Park.

* Shop for the things you need in advance. The purpose of your camping/nature trip is to enjoy it with the family not to run around looking for a store that carry a lantern or mattresses!

* Check your car or RV for the trip. Better safe than sorry. This could dampen your vacation if by chance you have forgotten to have your reserve tire inflated because it has been sitting for months and discover that it is flat as well when you need it!

* Plan the route you are taking. With the age of GPS and navigation systems, this could be a cinch. What if for some unknown reason your gadgets fail? Get a map or get printed directions to your destinations with alternate routes possibly to allow for what ifs.

* Self inflating mattress. Choose it for being lightweight. Compressed when not in use, utilizes your cargo space for other essentials. It provides excellent insulation between your back and the ground..

* Tent with room: Choose it because it allows for additional space, more head room and and provides ample space while changing or looking for that lantern.

* Make simple meals: These meals should be ones that are easy to put together, have few ingredients, and can be made quickly. Some suggestions are pasta and rice dishes out of a box make for easy cooking.

* Emergency equipment. One of the most essential as your camping gear. Included should be the standard First Aid kit, insect repellants, lotion for itching, and sun block.

And for the family that loves to see nature while having bonding time, there are a few parks to consider. One is Yellowstone National Park. Great for families, this camping ground is complemented with hiking trails and gorgeous waterfalls.

One place you really do not want to miss too is the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. Captivating canyon and breathless. Grand Canyon is a good bet for camping as well.

Emergency equipment is the most important of the camping kit and is most often ignored by many in their excitement of putting together camping tents and other equipment. It is very essential to be prepared for an accident at any time. This preparation not only includes having a first-aid kit but also means being prepared with the knowledge of what needs to be done in the event of an accident. Be sure you add some simple emergency medical kit to your camping gear.

I have included in this article a link to nps.gov:• U.S. National Parks • Camp Ground • Tour Reservation center • Links to Information

Also included is a link to:• usrvrental.com

Gerard Cadiz writes on travel and leisure articles and is an experienced traveller
for info on US National Parks please visit
http://www.nps.gov

9 Must Haves For First Time Campers

Are you are going camping for the first time? If you are, then the last thing you want is to carry a backpack full of things you don't need. Aside from bringing the usual tent, sleeping bags, mats, blankets, and personal stuff, what else do you need to bring?

The following list will help you know what you should bring when camping. It is not an exhaustive list, but it gives you an idea of some necessary items that all campers must have.

1. Compass and a map of your campsite area. First of all, you must know how to use a compass and a map. It is important to bring a compass and a map of the area where you will be camping in case you get lost.

2. Matches. Be sure to keep your matches in a waterproof container so they won't get wet when it rains.

3. Flashlight and camping lantern with extra batteries. Choose those that are light and not bulky so they won't crowd your backpack, and always bring spare batteries. Good camping lanterns and flashlights have batteries that last a long time.

4. Stove or cooking kit. You need something for cooking food and heating water. Many sites prohibit campers from building open fires, especially in the summer.

5. Water purifier tablets. You will need these in case your water runs out and you need to drink the water available in your camping area.

6. Insect repellent. This is a must. You wouldn't want insects to make a feast out of you when you're camping! This will also keep harmful insects at bay.

7. Pocket knife. A pocket knife always comes in handy and can be used in a lot of things.

8. First-aid kit and medicines. Your backpack should contain a first-aid kit. And if you are taking medication regularly, don't forget to bring your medicines. Remember that you will be spending a few days away from convenience stores and from the comfort of your home.

9. Small tool kit. This should contain some essential tools like a mirror, a small roll of duct tape, a whistle or any kind of signaling device, and about 50 feet of nylon rope.

There you have it, a list of the important things you need to bring when camping. You won't have to be confused about what to pack as you go on your first camping trip. You don't have to carry a heavy backpack full of things you don't need. And you don't have to wonder if you've brought everything that you need to bring.

All you have to remember are these nine basic must haves: compass and map, matches, light, stove or cooking kit, water purifier tablets, insect repellent, knife, first-aid kit, and a tool kit for signaling devices and other important materials. All campers should have these in their bags. They are important for safety, convenience, and of course an enjoyable first camping experience. Just follow this list and you'll be set to go.

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