A Great Camping List For You

Some items that will make camping easier:

First, if at all possible, bring a friend or family member and that will give you double fun. If not camp alone but bring along everything that you need.

Cord - lots of cord. Make sure you bring enough cord to hold your tent down, plus a little extra.

Tent stakes - That will prevent your tent from rolling or flying away in windy weather.

Flashlights - You'll always need one of these even if you like camping in the dark. In the middle of the night if you are looking for something in your tent, you'll not find it without a flashlight. And, if you hear a noise in the middle of the night, the best thing to do is immediately put your flashlight on. This lets everyone know that you are in your tent, and that your equipment and tent is being watched.

Water, bring lots of water to drink. Camping is the easiest way to get started on a new healthy way of living. With the stores and the soda pops far away , you have no excuse to not drink water. So , hydrate yourself and keep yourself healthy.

Extra set of car keys: You don't want to get locked out of your car on the last day of your camping trip. [Yes, that's when it will happen]. Keep the extra set of car keys ON your person , not in the car.

Majic candles: Remember those trick birthday candles that you used to use when you were a child? Well, these candles are the perfect things to bring along on a camping trip. When you are lighting your lanterns or lighting your fires, it will be convenient if you light them with a candle instead of a match. These 'majic" candles won't blow out. So, even if you are camping on the windiest day of the year, with these candles in your supply box, you'll surely get that fire lit and maintained. These candles are available at Target stores and at novelty stores in your neighborhood.

Back to tents: Please know that you can go camping without spending lots of money. Just use your imagination, and you'll find a great way to go camping in a great campgrounds or state park. You can bring tarps and string and make your own tents. I did that once and it was very easy.

If you want life-long tents, I highly recommend a company called, Eureka. Eureka tents are the best!

Linda Perry, an avid camper and television producer shares her ideas on all topics here. She is a published author, creator of genuine, unique television shows that air on Time Warner and on Cablevision in New York City. A warm-hearted individual who gives a voice to those who have been silent all along. This author produces television shows about almost all topics that help people in their lives. Many of the shows are entertainment; some are information and resources and still others are festivals, fiestas, and community events that bring all people together in one place in the city or in the country.