by Joseph C. Alkire

Created on: July 17, 2009   Last Updated: July 18, 2009

Of all the mistakes made in camping, the biggest mistake by far goes to the lack of planning. This one is rated numero-uno because too many people found out too late that they forgot something when it was needed the most. Murphys' Law is a perfect example. "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong given the opportunity". Proper planning is the most essential task before endeavoring any kind of trip.

Let's do a little preparation before going into some camping mistakes. The type of trip we are going on will pre-determine the equipment necessary to bring (ie. camper, RV, pop-up, and backpacking). The length of stay needs to be determined in order to know how much to bring. A GPS (global positioning sensor), a map that has the route highlighted with an escape/alternate route marked out just in case, compass, flashlights with extra batteries, matches or lighters, and camping tools are all ready to go. Oops, we almost forgot the rope.

Not bringing the right kind of clothing for the climate can prove costly. Plenty of socks are necessary for winter camping to keep the feet dry and preventing frostbite. Light loose clothing should be worn in the summertime. If there is constant sunlight, long sleeves would come in handy in case of sunburn. A windbreaker or light jacket is ideal for those cool nights out in the open.

Unless there is a stream nearby, many a camper has under-estimated the amount of water to bring. Hence, a shorter camping trip or unnecessary run to the store. Since all streams have some form of bacteria that is not good for us, water purification tablets are a necessity. People have gotten violently sick by non/improper treatment stream water. Remember to keep the drinking water at the furthest point upstream. The bathing area should be at least ten to twenty feet below the drinking area. Lastly, ten to twenty feet below the bathing area would be the part of the stream where utensils are cleaned.

It was mentioned earlier that bringing too much was a mistake. Now I'm saying bring extra. Which one of these statements are correct? They both are. Bringing too much is a mistake as it can make camping a burden, especially if the extras never get used. Bringing necessary extra items such as food, clothing, camping tools and the like are necessary in case of inclement weather and the stay must be lengthened. It means the difference between going hungry/thirsty for a few more days and being comfortable.

There is nothing more unsettling than a good hunt or catch being stolen in the middle of the night. Our four legged campsite visitors are more than willing to come back for another free meal. This is where rope and a tree limb come in handy. Tie the prepared food with rope and hang it on a tree limb high enough so the animal can't reach it but you can. Try to keep things that attract animals out of their reach.

In closing, if the unexpected were prepared for, then the whole camping experience should be one that is both enjoyable and memorable. The pains of mistakes learned is called experience. No one is totally prepared for everything but we can be as close to it as possible.

Learn more about this author, Joseph C. Alkire.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.