Camping During the Warm and Cold Seasons

Summer Camping

Summer is the most popular camping season, simply because the weather is nice and warm.  Also, families can take advantage of their children being out school.  As you can imagine, most campgrounds and campsites are more crowded during the summer, so if it is possible to make reservations, you will definitely want to plan in advance.   

It is also important to be aware of potential health problems that can come along with camping during the summer.  Being exposed to the heat and sun can offer a wide array of problems, ranging from sunburn to dehydration to heatstroke. 

Here are a few tips for a healthy summer camping trip:

·         Make sure you have enough water and stay hydrated.

·         Wear loose fitting and light colored clothing.

·         Avoid physical activity during the hottest parts of the day.  Do your hiking during the mornings and evenings and save the afternoons for something less strenuous or even a swim to cool off. 

·         Make sure you know the warning signs and proper first aid for heat exhaustion and heat stroke. 

·         If you find yourself feeling tired, do not hesitate to rest for as long as you need.

·         If possible, set up your campsite in the shade.  

·         Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. 

·         Bring insect repellant to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other disease-carrying pests. 

·         Eat small, light meals. 

Winter

Camping during the winter can be very challenging, but even so, many people enjoy it.  There is something rewarding about knowing you braved the winter elements to take part in an exciting adventure.  Of course, there are some advantages to camping in the winter; gorgeous scenery, less wildlife to protect yourself against, less crowded campgrounds, and the potential to take part in winter sports such as skiing and snowboard to name a few. 

As with summer, winter campers want to be safe and make their health a top priority.  Here are a few tips for a safe winter camping trip:

·         Make sure you have enough water and stay hydrated, even if you aren’t thirsty.  You can become dehydrated from cold winter air just as easily as you can in the heat.

·         Prevent your water from freezing.  Bring a bottle cover or keep your water bottles in a sock. 

·         Bring rain gear to avoid getting wet.  Also, bring a change of clothes in case you do get wet.

·         Stay moving to generate body heat. 

·         Add more complex carbohydrates to your diet.  They will give you more energy and help keep you warm. 

·         Wear layers so that you may adjust them as needed.

·         If you feel yourself getting too cold, immediately take whatever necessary precautions to warm up.