| For the unprepared new camper, there's always a | | | | It happens more than you think. In fact, I've seen |
| different story. You can spot a beginner camper | | | | beginners get themselves into "first time" camping |
| the moment they step onto the campground. | | | | messes more than I can count. It's not a pretty |
| They arrive with the excitement of a kid in a | | | | sight. |
| candy store, with a potpourri of disorganized | | | | I know, I had the very same experience during |
| items like city clothes, a borrowed camping tent | | | | my first camping trip 30 years ago. |
| and some expensive outdoor camping gear they | | | | Over the years, I learned to hone my camping |
| never used. | | | | skills for better outdoor tent camping. |
| Then reality hits... | | | | So what have I learned? |
| First, they arrive near sunsetafter driving for | | | | Well, there's lots to know. First and foremost - |
| hours. They struggle to put up their tent in the | | | | plan. |
| dark, but can't seem to figure it out. | | | | Having a plan before setting out into the |
| They realize that no one packed water or the | | | | wilderness is the difference between having a |
| proper camping food. There's no supermarket | | | | mediocre camping trip and enjoying an awesome |
| anywhere nearby, so they go to bed hungry, | | | | wilderness camping adventure. |
| thirsty and disgusted. | | | | From setting up the tent, to bringing a list of |
| They realize that they didn't bring items to get a | | | | items you need, to gathering firewood. If you put |
| good night sleep. So they end up sleeping on a | | | | a plan into place, you'll be setting yourself up for |
| cold, damp tent floor with just a light blanket to | | | | success - especially if you're a first time camper. |
| cover them. | | | | Most important, learning how to camp by trial and |
| Last, they didn't bring the items needed to stay | | | | error is a huge waste money, time and energy, |
| comfortable on the trip. | | | | not to mention, it's risky. Having a plan before you |
| They're stressed out, and everyone is miserable | | | | leave ensures you'll have a memorable camping |
| and unhappy. They proceed to pack up sooner | | | | trip. |
| than they wanted, and head home or to a nearby | | | | Plan ahead and you'll be a happy first-time camper! |
| motel, vowing never to go camping again! | | | | |