Some Helpful Hints for Tent Campers

Camping, what else to say other than its a passion of mine. I average approximately 6-8 camping trips a year ranging from 2 day excursions to week long trips.

California has so much to offer as far as diverse surroundings that I find that there are several ways to camp determining on the type of location you find yourself in. Here are a few tips that I have found helpful regardless of where I was.

Block ice is important as it will last twice as long as the cubed style that you get @ the store. There is nothing worse than having to make those inconvenient back and forth trips to civilization when you need ice just to keep your food & beverages cold.

A good steel rake is always a great idea, especially for those tent camping. Rake the foundation where you plan to put up your tent to clear any unwanted rocks, shrubs, and roots.

This gives you a smooth base for those sleeping on the ground and decreases any potential hazards of puncturing air mattresses. Also raking the confines of your campsite reduces the amount of unwanted insect life that normally calls your campsite home.

A very easy way to start and keep your camp fire going is to use some instant start charcoal. I usually use 1/2 a bag to line the fire pit and "tee-pee" the wood directly on top of the coals. The coals will ignite your wood because of the consistent flame and this will save you valuable time. Do not use Instant light fuel logs as they are horrible to cook over, trust me as I have experienced the lousy taste of fuel tainted hot dogs. Nasty.

Easy food that makes you look like a hero, several ideas come to mind. Instant potatoes are easy as all you need is hot water and butter and now you have mashed potatoes. Pancakes are also easy to do as well.The nice thing is that there is these are light weight, compact, and inexpensive. Macaroni and cheese is also easy to make/ throw a can of chili beans to the mac and cheese with some hot sauce..presto you have a tasty chili -mac dinner.Remember that space is at a premium when you go camping and consolidation and maximizing what you have to eat makes the trip that much more enjoyable.

These are just a few concepts that I have put to good use while camping and hope they are helpful. I will post more as I remember other ideas that may be helpful as well. Until next time, remember take out what take in and respect your fellow camper.