by Linh Truong

Created on: February 22, 2009

When far from home we always want to be comfortable and have the things that we need everyday. There's the lotion, and clothes and other necessities but room doesn't always allow for us to bring along everything we intend to bring. Especially when you're camping or hiking and it starts to rain or snow, where's the jacket that you couldn't fit in your luggage? Aren't you wishing for a nice sweater? Or perhaps you packed for cold weather and it turns out that the weather man was wrong and there really isn't any hail or snow in late July.

When packing you have to think about all the possible things that could happen but also remeber to leave behind things you won't need. If you're going camping or hiking you probably won't need a blender when you have nothing to plug it into. When packing clothing bring some short sleeved shirts and also winter clothing to be prepared for all weather. Also bring along rain coats, sun block and bug spray! When you pack fold the shirts in half and then roll them tightly, this will give you much more room. As for pants chose lighter pants that won't add pounds to your bag. Bring along with you a pair of sneakers if you aren't already wearing them and extra socks so that the during the hiking trip you'll be at ease.

Store your water bottle on the outer pocket of your book bag so that when you need it from all the walking you've been doing its easy to find and reach. As for food, bring nonperishable food, such as canned food and remeber a can opener! Don't put food where animals can catch its scent, trying putting it over something and under something in your bag to keep the scent from being too strong. The last thing you'd want is to be stranded somewhere without food. Remember to store your car keys somewhere safe too.

Keep your beauty products in a zip lock bag or purse to keep any spillage away from your food and clothing. Also remember to bring toothbrushes and toothpaste and store this somewhere it won't get contaminated. Bring along deodorant because if a shower is out of reach at least you won't smell. Hiking and camping is all about spending time outdoor and breathing in fresh air so don't bring along a t.v and watch t.v as you would at home. Spend time watching the stars and swimming in the lake. Leave your footprints and take pictures to frame precious moments. With a perfectly packed bag nothing much can go wrong and if anything does, at least you have deodorant.

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