outdoors travel

When camping
it is important to take plenty of food and water to remain nourished. These items should be easy to store
easy to carry when out on the trail and easy to keep fresh. Non perishable and dried items are best to take
but perishable items can be used if you have access to a refrigerator or cooler that will maintain the cold for the duration of your trip.

There are specialty stores that carry food supplies specifically meant for camping. However
these items can be expensive. They usually consist of pre packaged food and meals that are freeze-dried. Often the food is bland and may not be as nutritious as a fresh meal.

With a little planning
however
it is possible to have nutritious
easy to prepare meals right from the grocery store. There are many foods that are light weight
easy to store and non perishable. Cereals
nuts
dried fruit and candy are great snacks and can be mixed for an energy boosting trail mix. All those ingredients are readily available in a grocery store and can be made up before leaving and stored in an airtight container. Adding some packets into your backpack will provide a healthy snack while on the trail.

Always bring plenty of water for hydration and cooking. Don’t forget you’ll also need water for cleaning dishes after cooking. You can also bring drink mixes and coffee or tea to mix with the water for a pick me up in the morning. Any foods that require simply adding water are great. Cup of soup packets where you just add some water and let it steep are great for a quick and easy warm meal or snack. They are great for cold weather to help keep warm.

Canned meats
meats that do not require refrigeration and canned vegetables are a good source of nutrition. Tuna fish and canned chicken can be used in numerous recipes. Making stews out of canned meats and canned vegetables will provide you a hearty meal that is easy to prepare and easy to clean. Salami does not need to be cooked and is great on crackers for a snack. Beef jerky is a traditional camping snack that will provide nutrition and boost energy while on the trail. Just remember though that if you take any canned goods to also bring a can opener.

For sweets
candy and dried fruits are excellent. But who can resist a traditional s’more? Marshmallows
chocolate bars and graham crackers are lightweight and can be carried and stored with ease. Sitting down to a fire while roasting marshmallows and melting chocolate onto the graham cracker is a fun way to satisfy the sweet tooth.

Remember that when you are camping you will need to carry items with you on hikes and nature walks. Choose items that are lightweight and do not require a lot of cleaning. Bring a variety of meats
cheeses
breads
snacks and sweets. Camping is a temporary state and you should concentrate on ease of preparation and fun. Do not worry that you may not be getting the most balanced meal or gourmet food. There’s plenty of time for that at home. Enjoy the campfire
keep your energy level up and have fun.

When camping
it is important to take plenty of food and water to remain nourished. These items should be easy to store
easy to carry when out on the trail and easy to keep fresh. Non perishable and dried items are best to take
but perishable items can be used if you have access to a refrigerator or cooler that will maintain the cold for the duration of your trip.

There are specialty stores that carry food supplies specifically meant for camping. However
these items can be expensive. They usually consist of pre packaged food and meals that are freeze-dried. Often the food is bland and may not be as nutritious as a fresh meal.

With a little planning
however
it is possible to have nutritious
easy to prepare meals right from the grocery store. There are many foods that are light weight
easy to store and non perishable. Cereals
nuts
dried fruit and candy are great snacks and can be mixed for an energy boosting trail mix. All those ingredients are readily available in a grocery store and can be made up before leaving and stored in an airtight container. Adding some packets into your backpack will provide a healthy snack while on the trail.

Always bring plenty of water for hydration and cooking. Don’t forget you’ll also need water for cleaning dishes after cooking. You can also bring drink mixes and coffee or tea to mix with the water for a pick me up in the morning. Any foods that require simply adding water are great. Cup of soup packets where you just add some water and let it steep are great for a quick and easy warm meal or snack. They are great for cold weather to help keep warm.

Canned meats
meats that do not require refrigeration and canned vegetables are a good source of nutrition. Tuna fish and canned chicken can be used in numerous recipes. Making stews out of canned meats and canned vegetables will provide you a hearty meal that is easy to prepare and easy to clean. Salami does not need to be cooked and is great on crackers for a snack. Beef jerky is a traditional camping snack that will provide nutrition and boost energy while on the trail. Just remember though that if you take any canned goods to also bring a can opener.

For sweets
candy and dried fruits are excellent. But who can resist a traditional s’more? Marshmallows
chocolate bars and graham crackers are lightweight and can be carried and stored with ease. Sitting down to a fire while roasting marshmallows and melting chocolate onto the graham cracker is a fun way to satisfy the sweet tooth.

Remember that when you are camping you will need to carry items with you on hikes and nature walks. Choose items that are lightweight and do not require a lot of cleaning. Bring a variety of meats
cheeses
breads
snacks and sweets. Camping is a temporary state and you should concentrate on ease of preparation and fun. Do not worry that you may not be getting the most balanced meal or gourmet food. There’s plenty of time for that at home. Enjoy the campfire
keep your energy level up and have fun.

When it comes to enjoying a vacation on a limited budget
it is difficult to beat the appeal of the good old camping trip. After all
it costs next to nothing to pitch your tent in the back country wilderness of your favorite state or national park. A week long camping trip can often cost less than a day or two in a big city or tourist hot spot
while giving the entire family time to bond and enjoy being together.

As a matter of fact
camping is one of the most popular family activities
and many families enjoy camping together
sharing stories around a roaring fire
roasting marshmallows
swimming
fishing and all the other great things that come with a camping trip.

For many
camping brings back memories from childhood
and many parents want to give their children a taste of what their own childhood was like
back when things were so much simpler.

Another great thing about camping is that once the initial expenses are paid
there is little in the way of ongoing expenses. Unlike a traditional vacation
in which the money you spend on that great hotel is gone for good
with camping you buy your hotel room (also known as your tent) outright
and you own it forever.

After you have bought all the essential items
like the tent
a couple of good camping lanterns
a good camp stove
sleeping bags and the like
your only expenses may be the food for the trip and the gas it takes to get there.

And camping provides plenty for all members of the family to do. Dad may enjoy fishing in his favorite spot
or boating around the lake
while mom and the kids may enjoy a beautiful hike and bird watching trip. There are even campgrounds that feature movies
swimming pools and other amenities for those who prefer a level of comfort to their journey.

As a matter of fact
there are many ways to camp
from rough camping in the back country to cabins at campgrounds to even RV camping. The level is entirely up to you
and that is one thing that makes camping so attractive to budget travelers and families alike.

There is nothing quite like vacationing in the great outdoors to get back in touch with nature. From watching the wildlife to watching the stars
there is plenty to do on the average camping trip. Stargazing is particularly popular with city dwellers
who may never have seen the Milky Way in all its glory before. Getting away from the glare of city lights and see nature as it truly is.

We know that camping is one of the least expensive of all vacations
but lets take a quick look at the expenses associated with this type of budget travel. The centerpiece of the camping trip
of course
is the tent. Unless you plan to camp in an RV or rent a cabin
which is more expensive
you will need a sturdy
high quality tent. It is important that the tent be waterproof and that it close easily. Be sure the tent features a high quality zipper or other closure that is easy for every member of the family to operate. Test the zipper several times
and be sure you know how to set up the tent before you get to the woods.

Most campers will also want to invest in a few high quality sleeping bags. It is a good idea to choose a sleeping bag that is insulated
and to pick one that will be good for several seasons. Many sleeping bags are designed with removable liners and insulation. These are a good choice
since they can be used in cold weather and warm.

It is also a good idea to buy a couple of camp lanterns. These portable lights are great for lighting your way around in the dark. A cooler for drinks and food is a good idea as well
as is a portable charcoal grill or camp stove. If you are camping at a campground
however
you may be able to leave the camp stove and grill at home
since many campgrounds provide grills for their guests to use free of charge. It is important to find out what amenities each campground offers before you head out.

If you spend any amount of time in the backcountry at all
it will rain on you. Remember this - rain is a good thing; without it there wouldn’t be much backcountry to enjoy. How you prepare for rain and how you handle yourself and gear in the rain
makes the difference between a great experience and a horrible one. Here are some great ideas for ensuring your backcountry enjoyment when mother nature rains down on you.

Our best tips for enjoying the backcountry in the rain can be separated into two categories. The first pertains to getting ready to hike
camp or whatever else you love to do outdoors. Here are the Best Outdoor Preparation Tips:

 Always check the weather forecast. Understanding the type of rain to expect may even determine whether you go or not. If the forecast calls for severe thunderstorms with tornados
you will probably plan differently than you might for scattered showers. Check before you go
and check when you’re there. A good weather radio is an essential piece of gear for backcountry recreation.
 Store everything you take in re-sealable plastic bags
especially socks
matches
flares
food
maps and your first aid kit.
 Pack your sleeping bag in a large plastic trash bag or a specially designed waterproof bag.
 Pack a brimmed waterproof hat and jacket. Always have rain gear with you
even if it is only a large trash bag.
 Treat your tent
hat
jacket and pack with waterproofing spray – even if they’re called “waterproof” to begin with.
 For two weeks prior to your trip
be sure to take your multi-vitamins. You should be doing this regardless. A good immune system is an outdoor enthusiast’s best friend.

So now you’re packed and out the door. Once you’re there
common sense and a few tricks of the trade will help you get through unscathed. Here are the Best Outdoor Rain Tips:

 Never camp in a low lying area. Look for a durable surface which will allow water to run off more effectively.
 Look for a campsite this is somewhat protected from wind
flooding and heavy rain fall. Under a group of small trees is ideal. Keep away from the tallest tree in the forest – that’s where lightning likes to visit.
 Place a mat outside the tent door to collect debris. If you are base camping
the weight of the mat is not worth the benefit – so use rocks instead.
 Do not touch the walls of your tent when it is wet. This will adversely affect the water resistant capability of the tent. That is – you can create a leak.
 Use a tarp under your tent. You should do this regardless of the weather
but when it’s raining it becomes important.
 Sleep. There’s nothing better than sleeping in a tent when the rain falls.
 Check the forecast every hour. If the storm is worsening
you need to know about it. Do you have extra batteries for your weather radio?
 Never hold a fishing pole during a lightning storm.
 Emergency flares are excellent for igniting wet firewood.
 Body heat is a precious element. Conserve and protect your body by keeping it dry on the outside and wet on the inside. Drinking water becomes very important when body heat is being lost. Change into dry socks
get into your dry sleeping bag.
 Keep an eye on your tent
the tent’s rain fly and the ropes/stakes holding your tent in place. Standing water and high winds are the enemy of your tent.

Remember this – when it rains
you’ll see fewer people and fewer insects. Some of the most remarkable times you’ll experience will be in the backcountry during a rain storm – it can be exhilarating! Doesn’t sound so bad after all – does it?

Use this information and you’ll Get It Right The First Time. Get Outdoors!

Beaches offer joy to every one irrespective of color
creed
or social status. Ever since man learned the art of expressing joy
ocean and beaches have been his theme
whether the medium is a poem
painting
photograph
song or video. The beauty of a sunrise or sun set at the beach is beyond description.

Beach camping is one of the least expensive ways of enjoying weekends or other holidays. One can experience long boardwalks and beach fun like volleyball
swimming
fishing
sailing
wind surfing
jet skiing
water skiing
boating and much more.

As in any activity
beach campers need to take essential camping equipment such as tents
sleeping bags
drinking water
food
cooler
camp stoves
utensils
can opener
appropriate clothes
charcoal chimney
cleaning items
first aid kit
binoculars
bug spray
camera
candles
cell phone
compass
flashlight
GPS
kites
pen and paper and water filters.

Beach camping requires additional equipment such as sunburn lotion
folding aluminum furniture
beach chairs and tables
shade tents
beach wear
beach bags
and beach umbrellas.

With kids there is always a probability for accidents
particularly on beaches. Though all beach camp sites have coast guard services available
it is important for the camper to carry a first aid kit. Whether it is a ready-made unit or put together for the occasion
the kit should include these items: personal medication
bandages
medical tape
sterile gauze
elastic wrap
antibiotics
antiseptic cream
burn ointment
hydrogen peroxide
scissors
tweezers
eye wash and sanitary napkins.

With proper planning and adequate equipment
beach camping can be a captivating human experience!

Time out of doors is a precious commodity to the outdoor enthusiast - but are we getting the most out of this time. One way to ensure maximum backcountry enjoyment is to get the most possible value from the gear you acquire and use. Here are 5 ways to get the most out of your backcountry gear – and your backcountry experience.

- Purchase the best gear you can possibly afford. If you are going to spend a year planning your next excursion on the continental divide
spend three months getting into great shape
take three weeks vacation when it’s time for the hike
purchase an airline ticket
and so on – then why are you using the cheapest backpack you can find? A good backpack will make all the difference in the world. This applies to all of your backcountry gear. Whether its your GPS unit
sleeping bag
rain gear or dual-fuel portable stove
be sure to carry good equipment in order to get the most value for your money. Don’t buy cheap!

- Learn how to use all of your gear correctly and practice using it. When you are completely lost
it’s not the time to learn how to navigate with a compass and map. When you and your firewood are wet
it’s not the time to learn how to start a fire with the flare you’ve been carrying for 5 years in your pack. Take time to learn all of the features of your gear. You might be surprised to learn just how useful your GPS really is when you understand how to use the backtrack feature. You’ll be mighty thankful when you learn the proper weight distribution for your backpack. Take time to learn – practice around your home before you venture into the backcountry.

- Keep your gear with you and use it as much as possible. Your backcountry gear isn’t just for the backcountry. It has unlimited uses in everyday life. Never go on a road trip without your pack. You’ll almost always find an opportunity to use your binoculars or GPS unit. If you don’t have your gear with you
you’ll need it – never fails.

- Take great care of your gear. Hopefully you’ve learned this from your parents and not necessarily from experience. Your gear will only take good care of you if you take good care of it. Conversely
your gear will let you down if you don’t take good care of it. That’s a bad situation to be in. Inspect everything before you embark on your adventure. Clean and properly store all of your gear upon your return. Have you check your gear’s straps
fuel
waterproofing
batteries and overall condition lately? Taking good care of your gear is an important part of enjoying your backcountry trip.

- When you’re done with it
donate it – and some of your time - to a local scout troop. They are always looking for assistance from outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll feel great getting this last piece of benefit out of your old trusty gear!

Optimize your time in the backcountry. The easiest way ensure maximum outdoor enjoyment is to get the most possible value from your gear. Let these 5 ways guide you in getting the most out of your backcountry gear – and your backcountry experience.

Use this information and you’ll Get It Right The First Time. Get Outdoors!

Can you name the number one spectator sport in North America? It’s not baseball
figure skating or racing. It’s bird watching. That’s right
more people are watching birds than football and hockey combined. With so many people hoping to see a bird they’ve never seen before
it’s not surprising to see a clamoring for the latest tips and tools to get the job done. Here are my top five tips for getting the most out of your birding experience.

#1. Get to Where the Birds Are! This sounds obvious
but many birders spend the majority of their bird watching time and energy on poor locations. Some folk have the advantage of looking out of their windows into the back yard to observe nature’s best. The rest of us need to get moving. I would highly recommend visiting a National Wildlife Refuge. There are over 500 of them across the United States. To find one near you
visit http://refuges.fws.gov/

#2. Know What Species to Expect. There are approximately 900 species of birds in the United States and recognizing each of them is nearly impossible. So when you visit an area
do a little research first. You may find that perhaps only a few species actually inhabit that particular area. With a little preparation
you will be able to more readily identify bird species from each other. Keep a list of successfully viewed species – we’ll call this tip number two and a half.

#3. Get a Great Pair of Binoculars. Spending time and money to get to the right place can be totally wasted when your binoculars are inadequate. If you have an inexpensive pair of binoculars you are not getting the most out of your viewing. Today’s technologies come at a price and they provide crucial benefits in wildlife viewing. For instance
image stabilization will keep your view from shaking-very important when watching from a long distance. Other cool features include anti-fogging
low-light viewing and wide-view characteristics. Additionally
binoculars with built-in digital cameras enable you to identify birds once you get home. These benefits will definitely enhance your bird watching. A great pair of binoculars will turn a mediocre experience into a great one. You can count on it!

#4. Practice Before You Go. A key to viewing wildlife
and especially birds
is to have the ability to very quickly put your binoculars on target. Many people have difficulty finding a full moon in a pair of binoculars-but alas-learning to focus on a bird in a bush or track a bird in flight is easy for someone who has practiced prior to their outing. Try this before you go; lower your binoculars to your side and very quickly raise them to find and follow a jet airliner across the sky. After only a few attempts
you’ll get good at quickly acquiring your target. Quite often
birds are visible for only a few seconds
practice to become proficient.

#5. Take Someone with You. Life is always better when shared. Not only do you get to spend time out of doors with someone you like
but they might alert you to the “Number One Sight of the Day.” Share your birding experiences with your friends and family. Pass the birding excitement to a child.

The best part about wildlife viewing is that you the viewer
control almost every aspect of the experience. The more you are prepared
the more rewarding your time in our backcountry will be.

Use this information and you’ll Get It Right The First Time. Get Outdoors!