Safety when camping is paramount to a successful and memorable trip—better safe than sorry! Rather than being blissfully unaware of crucial camp safety tips, it’s always better to read up on some of the most common mistakes and be prepared ahead of time for any potentially dangerous scenario. Worry not, we compiled the most relevant hiking and camping safety tips in this very article for you to have a look at. Take a look below for the full article.
Camping Safety Topics – Don’t Make These Mistakes
Take it from us—practicing safety when camping is not something you want to approach lightly. Veteran outdoorsmen and women may seem like they preach safety as if it were a religion, but chances are they do so because they have a story to tell about coming a little too close for comfort to a dangerous situation.
Below, we outline some critical camp safety rules that you should not ignore if you want your upcoming trip to go smoothly.
Not Bringing the First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is Emergency Planning 101. You should always pack one as part of your standard set of safety gear. You never know what might happen; being prepared is always the better and more prudent choice.
Overpacking
You may have heard that you should pack for every eventuality. While that sentiment isn’t strictly wrong, many misinterpret the message here. It doesn’t mean you pack four different sweaters in case each gets muddy or if one doesn’t keep you warm enough—it means you pack high-quality, multifunctional gear that works in all conditions.
Though not as obvious, it can become a safety issue if the situation forces you to make some tough choices, ultimately neglecting some crucial items.
If you’re struggling with limited space and can’t seem to fit enough things, take a look at our article covering Camping Hacks to Save You Space and Weight.
Poor Gear Selection
Following up on the previous point, good quality items will last you a lifetime, cover all your bases, and provide adequate safety. For example, waterproof gear that actually does what it’s supposed to make a night-and-day difference when camping in the rain.
The same goes for your clothing selection. In essence, everything you pack needs to fulfill some sort of purpose and be well-suited to that task. If it’s not, you’re compromising your safety.
Underestimating the Weather
Weather complacency forms one of the most important camping safety topics. Whether you like it or not, out there, you’re at nature’s mercy. Sudden and unexpected torrential rain that catches you off guard in the middle of a hike can leave you soaking wet, dazed, and even potentially sick—if you’re not prepared for it.
Wandering a dozen miles in the blazing sun can lead to dehydration, exhaustion, and even heatstroke—if you don’t think about these things ahead of time.
The weather is a factor that you should always keep in the back of your mind. Choose weather-appropriate clothing and a great all-season sleeping bag, and consult local guidelines to remain aware of potential dangers that occur frequently in the area you’ll be traveling to.
Improper Food Storage
Nourishment is critical. In the wilderness, without access to your usual amenities, if you run out of food or water and can’t get more easily, that’s where your trip typically ends. Improperly storing your food risks exposing it to the elements, when it can become waterlogged and spoil quickly. But, a flimsy container likely won’t do either, as it’s just a standing invitation for wildlife to come and tuck in.
The lesson here is to store your food in solid, leak-, and bear-proof containers or hang it from trees well away from your campsite. Always clean up food scraps and dispose of waste properly to avoid unwanted visitors.
Not Planning Activities Around Daylight
You only have so much daylight, and thinking that you’ll be fine for the last stretch back to your campsite with only the stars and the moon guiding your way is folly. Camp safety rules dictate that you start your day early, return to camp by dusk, and always keep a headlamp or flashlight handy should you need one.
Forgetting Skin Protection
Summer campers and hikers who like backpacking ultra-light tend to get caught up in the thrill and excitement of their trip, forgetting about the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation and prolonged sun exposure. Employ adequate sun protection tips to stave off these effects on your hikes.
Approaching the Wildlife
It doesn’t matter if you think it’s cute or would make for a great photo-op. Disturbing, feeding, approaching, or in any way interacting with the wildlife you encounter is a huge risk, both to you and the animal. Practice wildlife safety during your trips, give any forest residents a wide, respectful berth, and always carry bear spray if headed to bear country.
The Takeaway
Your safety when camping is crucial to creating memorable experiences and walking away unscathed. Incorporate the tips we listed above into your routine, keep them fresh in your mind, and make sure all your companions observe them as well. Nature tends to be unpredictable—don’t let it catch you off guard.
You may also read: How to Care for Your Tent - 6 Tips