When it comes to outdoor adventures, whether it's camping, hiking, or embarking on a survival expedition, having the right tools can make all the difference. One such tool that often goes unnoticed but is incredibly versatile and essential is the survival shovel. But what exactly is a survival shovel, and why is the EST Shovel considered the best in its category? Let's dive in.
A survival shovel, as the name suggests, is not just any ordinary shovel. It's a multi-functional tool designed specifically for survival situations. While its primary function is digging, a well-designed survival shovel comes with a plethora of other features, from cutting and chopping to opening bottles and even starting fires.
Key Features of a Survival Shovel:
Now that we understand the importance of a survival shovel, let's explore why the EST Shovel is the top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
The EST Shovel is the best survival shovel on the market because it is durable, lightweight, and versatile. It is made from high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the elements. The EST Shovel is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in a backpack or bug-out bag.
Here are some of the features that make the EST Shovel the best survival shovel on the market:
Why you should own an EST Shovel
The EST Shovel is an essential tool for anyone who spends time outdoors, especially in remote areas. It is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of emergency situations.
Here are some of the reasons why you should own an EST Shovel:
If you are looking for the best survival shovel on the market, then the EST Survival Shovel is the right choice for you. It is a durable, lightweight, and versatile tool that can be used in a variety of emergency situations.
Some say you can never be prepared for a crisis. We are here to tell you that you can be prepared! All it takes is a little bit of pro-action, common sense, and research. Luckily for you, we have condensed all you need to know into this article.
]]>Some say you can never be prepared for a crisis. We are here to tell you that you can be prepared! All it takes is a little bit of pro-action, common sense, and research. Luckily for you, we have condensed all you need to know into this article.
Being prepared for an emergency does not mean that you need to have millions of dollars stashed away in an offshore account, waiting to be used. Although that would be nice, being prepared is more situation-specific than we think.
Ensuring you are prepared for any form of crisis, accident or emergency, means that you have a small bag ready for you and the family, just in case you become stranded, unable to escape a specific area, or need to wait for medical assistance.
Some of the most common emergencies are hiking and road-trip based. It is because we like to venture for the isolated and quiet areas that few know about, that we find ourselves at a higher chance of encountering an emergency.
If you aren’t prepared for any situation, you may find yourself dehydrated, starving, lacking basic first aid, debilitated, and in the worst case scenarios, being on the brink of death. We are here to ensure that this doesn’t happen!
You could be sitting in a normal building, going about your office work for the day. However, as you start to click send on that email, the electricity shuts down and nobody can leave the building as there is no manual override.
Now although the above sounds like the beginning of a horror movie, we’d rather not leave it to chance. If you have a car-park, make sure to leave some necessities in the trunk. For this situation, it would be best to make a little emergency bag and keep it in your locker at work.
More often than not, we take a 24 hour road-trip less seriously than we should. Imagine driving through the Nevada Desert and you run out of gas. You have no food, water, electricity, and your cell phone battery is on 5%.
With the nearest garage being 12 miles away, you know you are going to have to walk. However, making sure you have your emergency kit with you, ensures that you are well equipped to make the journey safely and without any bodily torment.
Camping trips are usually the emergency that many are the best prepared for. Seasoned campers will know that absolutely anything can happen on these trips. From broken bones, to knocks on the head, to even tripping into a cavernous ditch.
With the above linked with hiking emergencies, many find that keeping a small first aid kit, GPS locator that runs on solar power, as well as at least one days worth of food and water, to be the bare necessary essentials.
Being out at sea doesn’t seem too stressful. That is, until you are caught in a rip current, your boat is thrown off course, and your navigation system’s bearings are getting disrupted by the looming storm.
Now these emergencies may not sound too stressful. However, not being able to drink the surrounding water, as well as having no idea where you are, is bound to make even the boldest at heart a little fearful.
Now that you know which kind of situations you could find yourself in depending on your adventure preference, here are a few of the bare minimum necessities you need to think of when travelling longer than 12 hours.
Making sure that you have enough food on the off-chance that you get stranded, can really make or break a survival situation. You want to ensure that you take 72 hours worth of food with you. Using non-perishable tins is always recommended.
Emergency situations can cause us to run out of water pretty quickly. This is why having at least two liters of water per day is the optimal situation. If you can’t take bottles with you, make sure you locate your nearest water source.
To accentuate the latter, make sure that you pack some iodine tablets. That way you don’t have to worry about potentially contracting water-borne illnesses. You could easily pop the little container into your first aid kit for safekeeping.
Make sure that you have a fully stocked first aid kit. Having an antiseptic cream, proper bandages, waterproof plasters, scissors, a bundle of cotton wool, and some pain medication will ensure that almost any injury can be treated.
Person-specific chronic medication may also need to be taken. Ensuring that you keep at least a five day supply of this medication for a two day trip (always 72 hours extra), will ensure you won’t come into any preventable healthcare issues.
Technology has advanced to such an extent that wearable technology can ensure that those at home know your exact whereabouts at all times. Many find that a built-in GPS system in their watch, allows those at home to know where they are at all times.
Many outdoor watches come with a ‘panic notification.’ This prompt let’s specific contacts know that you are in trouble and need help! Even though we go on adventures to escape technology, we cannot deny how useful it can be.
Also, you will never know if building a shelter may become necessary. This is why a multi-purpose shovel, which has cutting capabilities, is an absolute necessity. Don’t worry, being small and compact, it won’t add too much extra weight to your packing list!
Before you trek out, please make sure that everything is in good working order! The last thing you want is for all of your preparation and diligent packing to go to waste with equipment that isn’t working!
A: You know you have all that you need when you can safely leave your house with less anxiety than you are accustomed to. Preparing for a possible emergency situation is not easy, but we can promise you that it is worth it.
We highly suggest creating a ‘running list’ based on the most frequent types of adventures that you participate in. This will allow you to analyze what you need for the most probable emergencies. This ensures that you will always be prepared!
A: Typically, a bug-out bag can be the best option to make sure your emergency equipment and materials are kept in one place. Bug-out bags can be purchased individually, or you can make your own.
With the bags coming in different sizes, they cater to the most seasoned adventurers, and even those that just want to take an overnight hike up the nearest mountain range.
A: Different adventure types will require different preparations. For example, if you are going on a road-trip for two days, you won’t necessarily need a tarp or sleeping bag as you can use your car for shelter.
By sharing your emergency kit lists with others, you will be able to get that external insight that can make you realise if you forgot something important.
Make sure that if you have different kits for different adventures, that all of the equipment, non-perishable items, and medication(s) in the first aid kit, are all in good working order and not past their expiry dates.
A: Ensure that everyone knows how to use the equipment and materials in the emergency kit. Most emergencies are time sensitive. This means you can’t waste unnecessary time on figuring out how to open an antiseptic bottle that is child-proofed.
Having a safety plan in place will also mean that there is no ambiguity on what to do should an emergency occur. The worst is when everyone is running around aimlessly when they should be focusing on the task at hand.
Emergency situations are not meant to be the ‘be all and end all.’ They are survivable, and your chances of survival are that much higher when you are well prepared. Never think that it won’t happen to you—because if it does—you don’t want any what-if’s.
As long as you have a well-structured emergency plan, a bug-out bag that contains all you need, and the willpower to see the emergency through to the end, you will overcome anything that is thrown at you!
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When we look at the definitions of what is considered a ‘big’ or ‘small’ emergency, one of the main criteria for the former is the after-effects thereof. A small emergency is one that can be handled immediately, whereas a big emergency will have more complications.
For example, say your car runs out of gas at the side of the road and you need to walk 20 miles to the next gas station. That, for some, may be a rather small emergency because you simply walk the distance, get the gas, and are back on your way.
However, when we look at a car accident, we find that the emergency encompasses the actual accident, the effect on those involved, and whether serious medical intervention is required.
Needless to say, it is of paramount importance that you are always prepared. It does not matter whether you think an emergency will happen or not. If you can think of it, prepare for it!
Emergencies can happen at any place or time. You may let the knife slip, and your finger is wounded rather deeply. Alternatively, you could slip down the stairs and severely twist your ankle. Emergencies, whether big or small, are always around us.
However, depending on the type of activities you partake in, you may be at greater risk of certain emergencies. After all, if you don’t like hiking, you’ll find yourself less likely to be involved in a hiking-based emergency.
That said, motor vehicle accidents are not impossible even if you don’t have a car, as you could be using public transport or traveling with a friend when a collision occurs. Nobody is entirely exempt from emergencies!
Preparing for emergencies makes potential experiences less stressful and will most likely provide a better outcome! Imagine falling off a small cliff and breaking a bone. If you don’t have a sling or know how to make one, any movement will cause pain.
Being prepared is not only about ensuring the worst possible outcome is prevented but also about lessening the trauma that those involved face. Mental health issues after emergencies are common, and most of the time, it is due to lack of preparedness.
Most Common Emergencies
Injuries, whether you are out for a walk in the garden or climbing up a mountain, are extremely common. Although we hope that you don’t have snakes in your yard, animal bites are one of the most common reasons to visit the Emergency Room.
Typically, snake and dog bites are not only unexpected but are more common than we like to admit. This is one of the reasons that you should know how to immediately deal with bites, stabilizing the victim until they can seek professional medical care.
Moreover, you may find yourself camping in a wildlife park, where bears and baboons roam freely. You don’t want to get in a tussle with these folk. We recommend having a basic knowledge of how to deal with any such encounter!
Car accidents, too, can leave you seeing stars. The shock of actually having been involved in one usually outweighs our degree of rational thought when involved in a situation like this.
The more you are prepared, though, the less you need to think and the better you will respond in the situation. It is scary to think about, but in our opinion, it is even more scary to think about the accident occurring when we were not prepared!
If you live in a country that is prone to floods (perhaps as a result of poor drainage systems), you may find yourself faced with flood warnings and potential landslides. These sorts of emergencies are more common than you think.
Meticulous preparation, especially where water is involved, changes the approach we need to take! Waterproofing the equipment in your emergency bag (or buying a waterproof bag) is the first step!
Hurricanes, earthquakes, and typhoons require additional strategies. Because you never know when they are going to hit, you need to use the history of them in your area in order to adequately prepare for them.
This is where technology gives us a bit of an advantage, especially as it helps us to detect when these natural disasters are going to hit. This not only gives us time to organize our thoughts but to mentally prepare ourselves for the inevitable disaster.
Strategy—Mind Over Matter, Brains Over Brawn
We know that it is easy to say that you need to ‘think’ during an emergency, especially when you aren’t faced with an emergency. However, clearing your mind and focusing on the end-goal of surviving needs to be at the forefront of your brain.
The one aspect about emergencies that always remains stress-inducing is their degree of unpredictability. The fear of not knowing how an emergency will play out, or change your life, is what can cause us to think irrationally.
Therefore, take a moment to calm yourself down rather than running around aimlessly for minutes, not achieving anything. Depending on the type of emergency, you may need to find a way to ignore the screams and focus on survival.
Like we alluded to above, you may be faced with any emergency at any time. However, that does not mean you need a storage room with 20 different bags, each tailored to a different emergency.
We recommend creating one or two different types of emergency bags that have common necessities and a few specifics. For instance, ensure both have a first aid kit! For a hike, pack a torch and a shovel. For a natural disaster, non-perishable food is a must-have!
Generally, people get so stuck on the specifics that they forget the most important parts of an emergency kit: clothes, medication, chargers (where applicable), and toiletries are the most frequently forgotten constituents of an emergency kit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: If I prepare for large-scale emergencies, do I still have to prepare for small-scale ones?
A: If you are able to use the contents of the kit for your large-scale emergency for the small-scale emergency, then definitely! What we will recommend is having a small bag in your large-scale emergency kit.
The reason for this is so that instead of lugging a bigger bag around, you can seamlessly remove a tinier emergency kit and simply put it back if it’s not necessary.
Q: What is the one item that there is no compromise about getting?
A: Make sure that you have a fully stocked first aid kit! Many of the newer kits come with a few protein bars and vitamin shots, which not only make sure you have something to munch on but that you are prepared for any injuries that may occur.
Q: What level of preparedness is required for a family in comparison to someone who is single?
A: Preparation on a larger scale will definitely be necessary. However, it also depends on who is attending. The type of preparations you make for the elderly will be vastly different when compared to preparations you make for an infant.
However, the basics remain standardized. Make sure you have non-perishable food for all parties, first aid kit, clothes, drinking water for 72 hours, and—where possible—technology with built-in GPS capabilities.
Q: Should I really bother preparing for emergencies?
A: Yes! This should not even be a question. You may never encounter an emergency. However, you could be rather unfortunate and encounter one in a month. We just never know. It is this degree of uncertainty that causes anxiety in many individuals.
With the level of preparedness having a direct effect on an emergency’s outcome, knowing that you are prepared, even if you never use your kit, will make you sleep easier at night!
Emergency Preparation, In Summary
Being prepared can save not only your life but also the lives of those you care the most about! You don’t want to be living with any form of regret, thinking: “If only I was more prepared.”
Emergency preparation, when done correctly, will promote a positive sense of mental health within yourself and those around you. It will decrease any form of anxiety that you are experiencing when you need to travel or are going out on a group adventure.
You don’t need to buy an entire outdoor warehouse. However, you need to take some time to think critically about your greatest needs and ensure that these will be accounted for, should any emergency present itself.
When we consider the reasons we need survival shelter, we can classify them into the basic and the advanced. On the basic level, we find that shelter protects you from the elements and any lurking wildlife.
On a more advanced level, it can act as a storage unit for supplies, while ensuring your safety. Should there be some sort of small rock avalanche at the base of a mountain, a well structured and functional shelter will protect you from harm.
Make sure that you research the forecasted weather for your adventure so you can pack appropriately. For instance, if you see there is a chance of heavy rain, we recommend packing a tarp to make your shelter water resistant.
The type of shelter also depends on the type of weather that you encounter. For example, in the sweltering heat, you would prefer an open lean-to shelter rather than a closed one. We’ll jump into the specifics of four basic shelter types below.
The location that you choose for your debris-hut shelter is just as important as how well you construct it. You want to ensure the shelter is built on flat ground with good drainage away from your site. You don’t want rain to pool in your shelter.
For this basic type of shelter, you will need a large and strong piece of wood that is going to act as the shelter’s main beam. This is the most important step as you don’t want your entire shelter to collapse while you are trying to get a good night of rest!
Where you decide to place your main beam will establish how much room you will have to move around.
You then want to search for large sticks that you can use to create a roof. By angling them on the main beam, you create both the height and width that you will have to lie in.
This last step is the fun part. Get all the leaves that you can muster and pile them on. If you brought a tarp, throw it over after this step. For the inside, fill it with leaves to aid with heat insulation.
The benefit of this type of shelter is that it uses your body’s heat to warm itself - making it nice and cozy during those cold nights. However, one disadvantage of this type of shelter is that it is best suited for two people at most. If you need a larger shelter, you may want to consider constructing a lean-to shelter instead.
How this type of shelter differs from the debris-hut is that you use an existing tree with a low-hanging branch, or a solid structure as the base of your shelter. You can then find the largest branches you can and lean them against your structure.
This basic form of shelter provides you with a lot more space (you can decide how long to make it), as well as a rigid structure that is stable against most weather conditions. Just make sure that you build your shelter away from the direction of the wind.
This shelter requires a bit of a trench to be built in order to enhance the stability of its structure, as well as to give you more space to move around. The recommended depth is approximately eight inches. To make this easier, make sure you pack a multi-tool shovel!
The main difference between this type of advanced shelter and the latter is that you have to assemble more branches to close-off the sides of the lean-to shelter. We recommend packing some rope to tie these branches together. This creates an easy-to-use door.
You’d want an enclosed lean-to shelter when the weather conditions turn harsh or especially if you are unsure what wildlife is present in the area.
For this type of advanced shelter, you will need to gather lots of saplings. Make sure that the saplings you search for are flexible. You will want to make sure the selected piece of ground is as flat as possible. A rule of thumb is making the area two times the breadth of your arms.
By finding different lengths of saplings, you create an entire dome around the demarcated area that was measured using your arms. The more saplings you can find, the stronger your shelter will be.
Push the saplings at least two inches into the ground to create enough stability to allow your shelter to remain standing in harsh weather conditions. Trust us, the worst is having your shelter collapse in the pouring rain!
Finding strong saplings to tie around the circumference of the dome’s shape is a necessity. The reason is that you need to ensure its strength and stability. Make sure to have strong rope packed in order to secure the saplings together.
If in an emergency or to make water resistant, cover the dome-shaped shelter with a tarp. If you have some time, find some large sets of leaves, or branches, in order to create a thatched roof. The more you have, the more heat your shelter will retain.
With any of the above different shelter types, you can create your own bed! By finding two large and sturdy branches, you will be able to lay enough leaves down to ensure a good night of sleep.
Make sure that you have a detailed emergency plan should you need to construct a survival shelter in a short amount of time. By delegating roles to individuals (e.g., collecting leaves and/or branches) there will be less chaos and more building.
Before you even think of collecting materials for your shelter, confirm that the location is safe. Are there any landslide risks in the area? Are the water drainage systems sufficient? If a tree was to fall, would you be injured?
The importance of having a fully equipped first-aid kit available cannot be emphasized enough! Along with this, make sure that the attendees on your expedition have enough medication to last the trip’s duration plus five days.
Unless you are 150% sure that the plants and vegetation are not poisonous, do not attempt to eat them. Make sure that you bring enough non-perishable food items should an emergency present itself.
Ensure that you are aware of which types of wildlife are in your area. You don’t want to attract any unnecessary attention with evening fires or elaborate meals. Instead, pack appropriate clothing for the weather rather than elaborate foodstuff.
Q: What is the most important task to do when needing to construct a survival shelter?
A: Make sure that your emergency plan is detailed and understood by everyone. Before you even think of setting up camp, make sure that all of the materials that may be needed to construct a shelter are available in abundance!
Q: Should I bring anything with me on the trip just in case?
A: A tarp and first-aid kit are must-have items. The former will keep you warm and the latter will ensure that you are in a physically fit state to withstand weather conditions or other emergencies should they arise.
Q: What do I do when wildlife enters the campsite?
A: By doing research on the types of wildlife that are around the campsite, you will know how to deal with them. For example, trying to hack a snake to pieces will probably result in you getting bitten, when you should’ve not made any sudden movements.
Q: What do I do if I can’t find all the materials for the shelter?
A: We’d recommend finding another area to set up camp. You need to always plan for the unexpected, as well as include the what-ifs. The more prepared you are, the greater your chance is at survival!
A survival shelter can be built in any situation. All you need to do is have all the materials in the surrounding area, a bit of know-how, and enough food in order to survive.
By ensuring that you are well equipped to handle any situation, you are making your safety, and the safety of those you travel with, the primary concern. Nature gave us all the materials we need in order to survive. We just need to know how to use it!
]]>As humans, when we are faced with a disaster or life-threatening instance, we only have one thought in our mind: Survival. This does not mean that bug-out bags can only be used when you are in trouble. There are so many more uses!
Picture yourself getting home one day and you find out there has been a gas leak in your house and you must leave your house immediately. Instead of needing to first think about packing, you have your exit strategy easily accessible with all you need.
Maybe your city is prone to hurricanes and other natural disasters. When evacuation sirens are heard, the last thing you want to do is still hunt for items in your house and have frenzied thoughts on what you need to pack. Simply grab your bug-out bag and evacuate.
Perhaps your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. There is no cellphone signal and you have to spend the night in the woods. Having your bug-out bag, with enough resources for 72 hours, will make a world of difference.
You see, bug-out bags are more than just a bag filled with everyday stuff. It is your survival kit. It is what will make your emergency situation that much easier to handle. It is a must-have and this is how you can make your own!
It is important to know that there are different types of bug-out bags. Some are based on weight, and others are based on the type of excursion or emergency you are planning for.
For example, you won’t pack a one-day bug-out bag if you are preparing for a house evacuation. The reverse is also true. You won’t pack enough items for seven days if you are going on a road trip for one day. Finding the best fit is all about planning!
To give you a bit of insight as to what different types of bug-out bags there are, we are going to break them down into levels based on weight, the size of bag all the items will fit into, and the cost of these bags. They are as follows:
If you enjoy planning every detail of your adventures (which we highly recommend), you will be able to choose the most appropriate bug-out bag. If you have absolutely no idea, then we recommend the level 3 bag. You can never be too prepared.
Shelter will be one of the most important items in your bug-out bag. Being exposed to nature’s elements with no way of protecting yourself, especially at night, will only result in discomfort, irrational thought patterns, and even the possibility of disease.
A compressible sleeping bag or tarp is usually the way to go as these can either be included inside the bag or strapped on the outside. You don’t need a pillow, you can always use your jackets and jerseys for that!
Making sure you have enough food rations will ensure you remain alive—literally! We recommend a few cans of ‘ready-to-eat’ food, and for those longer journeys, food that needs to be boiled. Just make sure you have everything to make a fire.
Your next big concern should be water. Luckily, water purification tablets are readily available and work like a charm! This should be one of your first items you think of, because without it, drinking water in nature may cause severe illness and diarrhea.
You also want to make sure that you can venture with enough water to sustain yourself should you not find another water source in close proximity. Always make sure you have a one-liter flask available to regularly replenish your hydration levels.
Lighting will be a great concern as soon as the sun sets. Thus, by ensuring you have adequate tinder, a lighter, and a headlamp, you will be prepared to see through the darkest of nights. If you can, bring a mini solar-powered lantern with you.
Finally, Make sure you have a first-aid kit ready and easily accessible. It is easy to trip, fall, and twist your ankle. You need to be prepared with bandages, pain medication, a tourniquet (for severe emergencies), and some antiseptic cream.
There are some items that aren’t completely necessary, but definitely do help! Some of the most underrated items you can pack in your bag are wet wipes and items to help keep your sanity.
Wet wipes are gifts from heaven—they are perfect for washing yourself when access to clean water is non-existent. Not only do they clean, but you smell rather good afterwards too!
When out in the open, or in a bunker, sleep is also of paramount importance. You cannot think rationally if you are tired. This is why we recommend always having a pair of earplugs, a sleeping mask, and a small mental health item (e.g teddy bear) with you.
Sourcing all of these items may require you to go to different stores, so you may opt to purchase a ready-made bug-out bag from an outdoor shop retailer—most should carry them. However, rather tailor your bug-out bag to your personal needs. You’ll thank us afterwards!
Q: Should I always carry a bug-out bag with me?
A: Depending on how prepared you want to be, we would always recommend it! You could even have different bags for different situations. Whether it be in the case of a violent storm, or for a hike up the mountain, you can never be too prepared!
If you plan on always having one at the ready, we recommend making sure that all of the foodstuffs are safe to consume and that the equipment is working well. Regular checking of expiry dates and equipment functioning is not negotiable.
Q: How much of each item do I take?
A: Just enough to sustain you for the period of your journey. For example, if you are doing a three-day hike, make sure you have enough ‘ready-to-eat’ meals for that period. The last thing you want to do is starve in the middle of nowhere.
Q: What happens if I run out of utilities?
A: Being thoughtful with your packing will ensure this doesn’t happen. Ask yourself, “Do I really need this item?” If you don’t, pack less of that, and more useful items like clothes and food. You aren’t there to live a life of luxury, you are there to survive!
Q: Does the bag size really matter?
A: Of course! Imagine lugging a 50-pound bag with you on a one-day adventure. Not only would this be extremely uncomfortable, but the likelihood of you needing all those items in the presence of an emergency remains miniscule at best.
We recommend looking at the type of survival plan you might need, the basic equipment list discussed above, along with resources you find online, to create a personalized bug-out bag—there is no such thing as a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach when it comes to this.
Bug-out bags are useful tools that ensure your survival. Having one readily available when tragedy strikes can help you make it out alive. Remember, your main goal is to survive and a bug-out bag will make this possible.
Our final thoughts? Make sure that you always have something that can purify water, that your food is enough to last your journey, and that your first-aid kits are always stocked up. Doing this will increase your chances of survival when it matters most!
]]>Some say you can never be prepared for a crisis. We are here to tell you that you can be prepared! All it takes is a little bit of pro-action, common sense, and research. Luckily for you, we have condensed all you need to know into this article.
Being prepared for an emergency does not mean that you need to have millions of dollars stashed away in an offshore account, waiting to be used. Although that would be nice, being prepared is more situation-specific than we think.
Ensuring you are prepared for any form of crisis, accident or emergency, means that you have a small bag ready for you and the family, just in case you become stranded, unable to escape a specific area, or need to wait for medical assistance.
Some of the most common emergencies are hiking and road-trip based. It is because we like to venture for the isolated and quiet areas that few know about, that we find ourselves at a higher chance of encountering an emergency.
If you aren’t prepared for any situation, you may find yourself dehydrated, starving, lacking basic first aid, debilitated, and in the worst case scenarios, being on the brink of death. We are here to ensure that this doesn’t happen!
You could be sitting in a normal building, going about your office work for the day. However, as you start to click send on that email, the electricity shuts down and nobody can leave the building as there is no manual override.
Now although the above sounds like the beginning of a horror movie, we’d rather not leave it to chance. If you have a car-park, make sure to leave some necessities in the trunk. For this situation, it would be best to make a little emergency bag and keep it in your locker at work.
More often than not, we take a 24 hour road-trip less seriously than we should. Imagine driving through the Nevada Desert and you run out of gas. You have no food, water, electricity, and your cell phone battery is on 5%.
With the nearest garage being 12 miles away, you know you are going to have to walk. However, making sure you have your emergency kit with you, ensures that you are well equipped to make the journey safely and without any bodily torment.
Camping trips are usually the emergency that many are the best prepared for. Seasoned campers will know that absolutely anything can happen on these trips. From broken bones, to knocks on the head, to even tripping into a cavernous ditch.
With the above linked with hiking emergencies, many find that keeping a small first aid kit, GPS locator that runs on solar power, as well as at least one days worth of food and water, to be the bare necessary essentials.
Being out at sea doesn’t seem too stressful. That is, until you are caught in a rip current, your boat is thrown off course, and your navigation system’s bearings are getting disrupted by the looming storm.
Now these emergencies may not sound too stressful. However, not being able to drink the surrounding water, as well as having no idea where you are, is bound to make even the boldest at heart a little fearful.
Now that you know which kind of situations you could find yourself in depending on your adventure preference, here are a few of the bare minimum necessities you need to think of when traveling longer than 12 hours.
Making sure that you have enough food on the off-chance that you get stranded, can really make or break a survival situation. You want to ensure that you take 72 hours worth of food with you. Using non-perishable tins is always recommended.
Emergency situations can cause us to run out of water pretty quickly. This is why having at least two liters of water per day is the optimal situation. If you can’t take bottles with you, make sure you locate your nearest water source.
To accentuate the latter, make sure that you pack some iodine tablets. That way you don’t have to worry about potentially contracting water-borne illnesses. You could easily pop the little container into your first aid kit for safekeeping.
Make sure that you have a fully stocked first aid kit. Having an antiseptic cream, proper bandages, waterproof plasters, scissors, a bundle of cotton wool, and some pain medication will ensure that almost any injury can be treated.
Person-specific chronic medication may also need to be taken. Ensuring that you keep at least a five day supply of this medication for a two day trip (always 72 hours extra), will ensure you won’t come into any preventable healthcare issues.
Technology has advanced to such an extent that wearable technology can ensure that those at home know your exact whereabouts at all times. Many find that a built-in GPS system in their watch, allows those at home to know where they are at all times.
Many outdoor watches come with a ‘panic notification.’ This prompt let’s specific contacts know that you are in trouble and need help! Even though we go on adventures to escape technology, we cannot deny how useful it can be.
Also, you will never know if building a shelter may become necessary. This is why a multi-purpose shovel, which has cutting capabilities, is an absolute necessity. Don’t worry, being small and compact, it won’t add too much extra weight to your packing list!
Before you trek out, please make sure that everything is in good working order! The last thing you want is for all of your preparation and diligent packing to go to waste with equipment that isn’t working!
A: You know you have all that you need when you can safely leave your house with less anxiety than you are accustomed to. Preparing for a possible emergency situation is not easy, but we can promise you that it is worth it.
We highly suggest creating a ‘running list’ based on the most frequent types of adventures that you participate in. This will allow you to analyze what you need for the most probable emergencies. This ensures that you will always be prepared!
A: Typically, a bug-out bag can be the best option to make sure your emergency equipment and materials are kept in one place. Bug-out bags can be purchased individually, or you can make your own.
With the bags coming in different sizes, they cater to the most seasoned adventurers, and even those that just want to take an overnight hike up the nearest mountain range.
A: Different adventure types will require different preparations. For example, if you are going on a road-trip for two days, you won’t necessarily need a tarp or sleeping bag as you can use your car for shelter.
By sharing your emergency kit lists with others, you will be able to get that external insight that can make you realize if you forgot something important.
Make sure that if you have different kits for different adventures, that all of the equipment, non-perishable items, and medication(s) in the first aid kit, are all in good working order and not past their expiry dates.
A: Ensure that everyone knows how to use the equipment and materials in the emergency kit. Most emergencies are time sensitive. This means you can’t waste unnecessary time on figuring out how to open an antiseptic bottle that is child-proofed.
Having a safety plan in place will also mean that there is no ambiguity on what to do should an emergency occur. The worst is when everyone is running around aimlessly when they should be focusing on the task at hand.
Emergency situations are not meant to be the ‘be all and end all.’ They are survivable, and your chances of survival are that much higher when you are well prepared. Never think that it won’t happen to you—because if it does—you don’t want any what-if’s.
As long as you have a well-structured emergency plan, a bug-out bag that contains all you need, and the willpower to see the emergency through to the end, you will overcome anything that is thrown at you!
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Although the event itself is both terrifying and stress-inducing, we don’t usually focus on the after-effects or the process of actually living through it. Thus, we are going to provide you with a bit more detail in this regard!
For example, you have just received a warning that a hurricane is inbound within the next three hours. Apart from the normal individual’s panic response, what do you do? You don’t have time to be scatter-brained—you need to be proactive!
Typically, depending on the type of natural disaster, specific key issues can arise. Your power may trip, your geyser may burst after an earthquake, you may be trapped in your house for an entire week, the list goes on and on!
Luckily, there is a way to avoid all of the after-effects that come with the announcement of a natural disaster. How you do this is by creating your own emergency kit and ensuring you have household emergency protocols in place.
Natural disasters will require you to think outside of the box, adapting your immediate surroundings into a place of safety for you and your family. Not only is the focus placed on safety, but ultimately on your survival!
With there being different magnitudes of natural disasters that can occur, preparing for one will never be a “one size fits all” approach. If you are used to tornadoes in your area, plan for them! But, don’t forget the possibility of torrential rain and its disastrous effects.
A natural disaster may require you to grab-and-go! When the alarms go off alerting you of an oncoming hurricane/tsunami, your priority is getting to a bunker or higher ground. Making sure you are prepared for this journey will make your lives that much easier.
Your research will determine which materials you need to gather for your emergency kit. Take a look at the weather once a week. Observe whether there are any major differences. Investigate the ‘why’, so you can be prepared for the ‘when.’
Research regarding a natural disaster goes further than just the disaster itself. You need to research immediate services available to you. Having a travel plan and house-based emergency protocol in place will most likely secure your survival.
Power outages are common with natural disasters. Whether it is the wind that overturned your neighborhood’s power supply, or torrential rain that has caused a landslide and damage to the central electrical powerhouse, you need to be prepared!
The effects of power outages are multi-faceted. You most likely won’t be able to heat up your food, take a warm shower, or contact loved ones due to the lack of Wi-Fi. If this occurs for long periods of time (and you are trapped), starvation may even occur.
Flooding is another primary cause of suffering when a natural disaster takes place. Not only does flooding predispose mountainous areas to landslides, but its disaster-causing potential stems further than a little puddle that you can jump in for fun.
With the failure of local drainage systems, floods have the ability to cause demise in those that cannot swim, direct structural damage to motor vehicles, as well as damage to infrastructure such as housing, supermarkets, and hospitals.
Both of the above instances may result in you and your family being barricaded in your house/apartment. With no way to seek medical attention, food, drinkable water, and toiletries, you will most likely be confined to the contents of your emergency kit.
Should you find yourself isolated in a bunker for a longer period of time, you may be alone or with other strangers. This experience is most likely to have a large negative impact on your mental health.
We can’t express the importance of positive self-affirmation and thoughts when living through a natural disaster. Preparing your mind and thinking about positive outcomes will lessen the anxiety and depression you may experience.
Non-perishable food items are a non-negotiable must-have when creating your own emergency kit. Natural disasters can last anywhere from two days to an entire week (and in some cases even longer). You don’t want to find yourself rationing your food stores.
Along with food, making sure that you have at least three days worth of drinkable water per person, will ensure that no form of dehydration occurs. Starvation and dehydration are two of the most common causes of demise during a natural disaster.
Medication, including your own personal chronic medication, needs to always be in a surplus of at least two weeks. You may be able to ration food and water supplies, however, rationing your medication will lead to devastating physical effects.
Portable chargers, including a fully charged power bank, are useful items so that you can remain in contact with your loved ones. We already discussed the effect of social isolation, and it just feels so much better knowing that those closest to you are safe.
Placing all of these items in a waterproofed bug-out bag will ensure all of your equipment and necessities are in one place. You don’t want to waste time finding equipment that actually works. This is why regular maintenance remains important!
Clothes and sleeping supplies will provide you with a degree of comfort which may provide a sense of calm during the storm. When you get sufficient, good quality sleep, you are able to think with clarity and rationality. This is vital to your survival!
We recommend taking one mental health item with you. This could be a teddy bear that holds personal meaning to you, your favorite book, or a necklace that your significant other has gifted you.
We need to be able to find a sense of stability during the anxiety-inducing effects of a natural disaster. It is for this reason that you use an item to ground you to reality. When you remember what you are surviving for, your faith and hope is renewed!
Q: Why should I be prepared for a natural disaster?
A: Natural disasters do not discriminate on who it affects! It does not matter if you are from the richest town on the planet, if a tornado is coming your way, it will most definitely not go around you.
With that being said, these types of disasters have, in many cases, a rather high mortality rate. Being prepared increases your chances of survival. The better prepared you are, the greater your chances of overcoming nature’s temper-tantrums.
Q: Where should I go if a natural disaster hits my area?
A: Many cities have designated bunkers and areas of enforced protection that focus on the safety and well-being of its citizens. With that being said, not all cities have these facilities available.
Living near a fault line by the ocean may predispose your area to tsunamis. So contacting your local government authorities to find out what the protocols are should disaster strike, is the best route to take.
Q: What is the use of an Emergency Kit?
A: The purpose of an emergency kit is to keep all of your necessities in one compact place. However, keep on updating what you deem to be your necessities. Whatever you need for your survival, should be included. Grab it, go, and head to safety.
Q: How long should I pack for should there be an announcement of a possible natural disaster?
A: Most natural disasters may extend from two days to an entire week. However, the after-effects of the disaster are what remain for some time. Many people pack for a week, primarily because if it ends earlier, they have more than enough resources.
If your bunker is already equipped, or the city-based safety area provides meals, it may change how long you pack your bug-out bag for. Make sure that you have a sufficient amount of an item. If you think you’ll run out, pack a bit more.
The effects that any natural disaster has on an individual's psyche and ability to return back to a normal life, remains different in each individual. Experiencing a natural disaster is a traumatic event and this should never be discounted!
You have the potential to survive each and every disaster that comes your way. What will determine your rate of survival is the degree of preparation you have invested into compiling your bug-out bag!
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Camping in the winter can be just as fun as camping in the summer. Instead of being out and constantly traipsing through dirt, you will be in the warm confines of your tent performing tasks that you love!
There is this unwritten rule that just because it is winter, you should not go camping. The pretense is that it will be boring, that there is nothing to do, and that you will most likely shiver and be unhappy in the cold weather.
It is one thing to decide for yourself that you are going to give cold camping a try. However, convincing others may be the tricky part. It may actually be the most difficult segment within the entire process!
Luckily for you, we are here to provide you with some of the best reasons as to why camping in the winter can be refreshing, as well as some of the equipment that you will need.
All we see and hear in movies are the exclamations of the cast members when they are in a forest and it starts to rain. What if we were to give you reasons to exclaim and rejoice when the rain comes? Would you believe us if we said it is possible?
Well, it really is, and camping during the winter doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be cold. The temperatures will be cooler, but you may even be given the opportunity to learn and see more about what nature has to offer.
A misconception is that camping in the winter limits the activities that you can do. Yes, you wouldn’t exactly want to go swimming in the nearby river, but you also wouldn’t want to be sweltering in the sun for your entire camping trip during the summer either.
Many take camping in the winter as not having a remote chance of being enjoyable. Contrary to this statement, many people actually prefer camping during winter because the camping grounds aren’t too busy, and they get more alone time!
Another misconception is that, should it rain, the trip will be ruined. Remember, a camping trip is what you make of it. Putting on your headlamp, making a warm cup of cocoa, and diving into your favorite novel sounds pretty amazing to us.
Staying warm may be the most important consideration when wanting to camp in the winter. What this means is that not only should you have warm clothes, but that your sleeping apparatus should be warm too!
If you love the life of luxury, a down-feather sleeping bag can be nice and cozy. However, if you enjoy the ‘natural feel’ of camping, a normal sleeping bag with blankets stuffed inside will provide just as much comfort and warmth!
In terms of clothes, depending on the weather, some thermal garments may be necessary. We highly suggest doing a bit of research just so you know what the weather will be like, and you can plan ahead. Failing to plan will only result in a sub-par trip!
Should it start to rain, or a thick blanket of fog descends on your camping ground, you will need to have some equipment to ensure visibility. Many strong torches aid in visibility where thick mist and fog is concerned. You don’t want to walk into a tree!
Alternatively, if you are one that doesn’t get scared by a bit of rain, make sure your jacket has a nice hood in order to prevent the rain from pelting your eyes. The more you are able to see, the more you’ll be able to enjoy!
With the larger amounts of dew that appear in the morning during the winter, it may be necessary to waterproof a few of your items. Do not compromise on a waterproof tent and a small bag for all your important personal belongings.
The last thing you want to happen is you falling asleep and waking up in a puddle of water because the rain seeped through. Trust us, it has happened to us before, and we want to make sure that it doesn’t happen to any of you!
Making sure that all of your basic medical supplies are present and accounted for, plays a pivotal role in how you enjoy winter camping. You don’t only want your body to be comfortable, but you want your mind to be too!
When deciding that it is a good idea to go camping in the winter, you need to make sure that your food and water stores are up to par! We recommend at least an extra 72-hours of non-perishable food, and an extra five liters of drinking water.
With camping in winter seen as being immensely under-rated, we wanted to open up your minds to all the fun activities you can do! The first one is one you can do by yourself or with your family. Needless to say, always have a deck of cards ready.
When playing cards with your family, there are so many different games you can play. Crazy Eight, Rummikub, Go-Fish, and Snap, are but a few examples. Even if you are alone, you can try your hand at Solitaire, Devil's Grip, or Klondike.
What many people enjoy about winter camping is the ability to do some introspection and personal reflection. There is literally nobody around to bother you, so you can whip out your journal and get to planning the next stage of your life!
We cannot explain the serenity of reading your favorite book while listening to the pitter-patter of the rain against your tent. Few feelings can really compare to it! Take two or three books with you, because if you are like us, one just won’t be enough.
When there is no rain and the sun is not at its strongest, it is the perfect time to take a walk around the campsite. We don’t know about you, but the winter sun, although bright, intensifies the colors of nature. This is an experience everyone needs to see!
As a family, depending on who goes with you, there may even be some time to get to know each other a bit better. We are all often so busy thinking of what to do the next day, that we forget to chat and reminisce with those that matter.
Q: Why should I consider camping in the winter?
A: Camping in the winter brings with it all the joys of a typical camping experience, without the sweltering hot sun and sweat from walking around the campsite. Not only is it cool and comfortable, but it is calm and serene.
Camping in winter will provide you with a different perspective on camping. This will make you realize that you don’t need to limit your camping experiences to the busy summer days. Camping is supposed to be enjoyed all-year-round.
Q: What items should I definitely not forget?
A: Making sure that you have your warm clothes and sleeping equipment is a must! Sometimes all you want to do is take a nice nap. However, we all know that with a lack of good quality sleep, the day’s tasks will not be as enjoyable.
Over and above the sleeping equipment, the first aid kit and chronic medication is not to be forgotten. Not only will it impact your health negatively, but serious emergencies could occur and you’d want to make sure that you’re prepared for it!
Q: Is it safe to go on a camping trip in the winter on my own?
A: Definitely! Actually, we highly recommend it. If you are the type of person that would first try things before inviting anything else, then you should’ve already gone yesterday!
Camping in the winter is a good breakaway from our busy lifestyles, countless phone calls, social media scandals, and running errands. It allows you to stop, take in your surroundings, and focus on your own positioning and progress!
Q: What do I do if there is an emergency?
A: Always make sure that you have your first aid kit available if an emergency requires immediate medical intervention. Another tip is to ensure you have a GPS device, so that your loved ones can locate you should something go wrong.
We would also highly recommend doing some research with regards to facilities that are around your camping site. Look for hospitals, small towns, convenience stores, and other stores that you believe may be beneficial to you.
Camping in the winter is under-rated! We need you to realize this. It can be fun and relaxing, coupled with the immense beauty that nature has to offer! You won’t need to feel constantly tired and lethargic due to the strong, summer sun!
If you need to take a little break from your busy everyday life, or you want your family to experience some bonding time away from the concrete jungle, then we highly suggest planning your next camping trip during the winter!
You would be surprised at how much trail mix comes in handy when hiking up a mountain, or going on a long walk with friends. It provides you with a constant stream of energy, ensuring that you don’t become exhausted early in your adventure.
Making your own trail mix is not only cost-effective, but it gives you a personal sense of pleasure. You are including items that you enjoy. Making it yourself ensures that you won’t need to pick out ingredients that you just don’t enjoy.
Trail mixes have a wide variety of different combinations that you can use. Savory, sweet, or a mixture of both—your possibilities are endless! They even offer a little heat, if you’re into spice! If you are going on a camping trip, why not make ‘trail mix making’ a fun activity for everyone to get involved with?
What we love about trail mixes, is that you can adapt them in such a way that your nutritional requirements are always adhered to. Some might prefer ingredients that are high in protein, others may like a bit of chocolate, it is all about personal preference.
What many people love to do is to get a wide variety of different sizes of ziploc bags, types of nuts, dried fruit, and then go to town on baking their own inclusions for their trail mix. Peanut butter health balls are usually an amazing option!
Making your own trail mix is not as hard as you may believe. If we want to be rather eloquent, we can refer to it as a smorgasbord of ingredients. With that being said, the greater the variety, the greater the taste.
If you are an avid adventurer who enjoys going out into the mountains for the weekend, we would highly recommend making one large trail mix and decanting from it every time you leave your campsite.
If you prefer packing individual trail mixes, including a variety across different days, then that’s okay too! This leads us to the most important part of your trail mix—sandwich bags. Many prefer air-tight ziploc bags, but either of them work well.
If you plan on venturing into areas that have a high humidity, lots of rivers you need to wade through, or your weather forecast predicts rain, we recommend you use ziploc bags. Their air-tight seal will prevent unwanted moisture seeping in.
Another question many people ask is, “How much is too much?” To be honest, trail mix is not meant to substitute your main meals of the day. They are meant to be a snack for in-between your meals.
Naturally, people find that including approximately five to eight different types of ingredients, makes for a great all-rounded trail mix. It all depends on what you prefer, and this is the time to let your creative juices run wild!
This is where personal preference will dictate the nutritional value of your trail mix. However, this is not the only consideration that is necessary. Your daily routine and personal fitness goals may also dictate which ingredients you include.
For example, if you are a bodybuilder that is in the process of getting their cardio in, you might find that nuts are a good ingredient based on their protein content. However, if fitness isn’t an immediate goal, some chocolate drops can be included.
Other than personal preference, you want to make sure that your trail mix has a good balance of carbohydrates (which provide you with long-term energy), healthy fats, and a small portion of sugar-containing sweets (for those instant energy boosts).
Let’s hop into a few examples of some of your more common types of trail mixes. Remember, you are able to customize them as much as you want. You can use these little recipes as a guide.
One of the most common forms of savory trail mixes is known as the ‘Peanut Butter Friend.’ What we love about this mix is that it incorporates mainly savory items such as almonds, peanuts and banana chips, with some sweet peanut butter chips.
If you want to add a bit of dried fruit into your mix, why not create your own tropical mix? For this mix, you’ll need to combine some cashew nuts, Brazil nuts, some unsweetened banana chips, dried mango bits, and coconut flakes.
A favorite savory mix that we also just love is the ‘Fall Flavors.’ This mix combines the protein content of pecans and pumpkin seeds, with that of dried apples and maple granola. The mix is then rounded off with a dash of nutmeg and cinnamon.
Chocolate lovers will enjoy a mixture of M&M’s, some dried cranberries, hazelnuts, almonds that have been covered in chocolate, and some cacao bites! If you’re feeling adventurous, add some white caramel drops into the mix!
Some enjoy the typical peanut butter and jelly in the literal sense. However, there is a trail mix adaptation which consists of peanut butter chips, some dried strawberries, and shredded wheat cereal. Basically your classic deconstructed PB&J.
Now that you have a great idea of the main constituents within a savory and sweet trail mix, let’s take a look at some of the mixes that have a mixture of the two.
One of our perfect balances of savory and sweet, which will also entice the coffee lovers, will include hazelnuts, chocolate-covered coffee beans, almonds, raisins, and some white chocolate chips.
For those who enjoy fruit, nuts, and a bit of sweetness, why not try adding together some goji berries, dark chocolate chips, dried blueberries, pistachios, flax seeds and a dash of sea salt. This trail mix can also be used as a perfect post-workout snack.
Q: Why should one pack a bag of trail mix?
A: You may find yourself lacking some energy on your adventure, however, you aren’t hungry enough to eat the lunch you have prepared. This is where your trial mix comes in.
Not only is it a fantastic energy source, but it keeps you going until your body really does need to have lunch. Some people even use their trail mix as a distance tracker, eating a specific amount after every mile they walk.
Q: Can I only make a trail mix for a hike?
A: Not at all! Trail mixes sound like they are only for the hiking trail, but there are so many reasons to mix up some ingredients to enjoy a myriad of other activities. An example could be mixing popcorn, M&M’s, and dried cherries together for a movie.
In actual fact, whenever you plan on taking any form of bug-out bag or carrier bag with you on an adventure, make sure to pack a few of your favorite trail mixes inside. You never know when you may need them!
Q: Can you purchase ready-made trail mixes?
A: You definitely can! However, the chances are that you will most likely not want a specific ingredient in your trail mix. This is why we recommend doing some research on pre-made trail mixes, and adapting it to your fancy!
You may also find that with ready-made trail mixes, that they add extra sugar, colorants, and flavorings to their ingredients. If you are conscious about your health, we would definitely recommend staying away from them.
Q: Are there constituents in a trail mix that you shouldn’t substitute?
A: Not at all. Every ingredient in a trail mix should be one that you enjoy! Whether you are a person who enjoys more than 12 different ingredients, or you are more simplistic and only prefer four, the choice will always be yours!
Creating your own trail mix is usually a task that many wish to avoid. However, we cannot express the excitement that one gets when you are mixing your favorite items together, knowing that you are going to enjoy it later!
Some people are even able to see personality types based on what one puts into their trail mix. It is a great way to get to know other people, and have fun in the process. Not only that, but you can make your mixes as healthy as you would prefer!
]]>If you are taking this vacation with your children, trust me, there will be complaining! The peak of it will come if you decide to take away their cellular phones until 8pm every night. They’ll thank you later though.
The exciting part about a family camping trip is getting to know your family on a deeper level. Yes, you live with them, but do you actually know them? Our computer screens take so much of our time, that we forget to converse with our loved ones!
This is the perfect time for you to chill and relax as well. Bring that book you’ve been meaning to read, open up a bottle of water, find a shady tree, and revel in the relaxing atmosphere doing what you enjoy. Everybody needs a break now and then!
You can skip rocks at the nearby river, try to build a fire, play hide-and-seek, or even do a family Masterchef. The opportunities at a weekend away are endless. So we have determined the most fun ideas that the entire family will enjoy.
There is no limit as to what you can do on a family camping trip. It may sound cliche, but you are only bound by the borders of your imagination!
Maybe your family enjoys a quiet time around a fire. Maybe they are physically apt to hike the nearby trail. Or maybe you want to find out more about them to make these decisions. Camping is all about getting to know each other better.
You want to make sure that there is something for everyone to do. Let Grandma teach everyone how to knit, or get Dad to teach everyone how to chop wood. It is all about learning, and creating those memories that will last forever.
Here are the top 10 most fun activities to put on your itinerary the next time you plan that family camping trip.
Taking a dip at the nearby river can be a perfect way to cool down, especially if you decide to go camping in the peak of summer. Take a waterpolo or tennis ball to really spark the competitive spirit within the family.
Make sure that you always have more than enough sunscreen on, and are using it at regular intervals. The most disappointing part of a camping trip is getting sunburnt and having to sit on the sidelines.
There is no better way to bond as a family than going on a hike together! The encouragement when the path becomes too steep, coupled with the bouts of conversation, make for a great family adventure.
This is one of those times where one person can take a camera. This way you’ll have photos of the experience and nature that we typically take for granted.
As soon as the sun sets, the music should begin. Now we don’t mean that you need to use your phones. What we suggest is finding sticks, logs, and rocks to create your own instrument. Add your voices and you have yourself a nature band.
Pick one evening and safely make the largest fire that you can muster! This is bound to be an exciting experience for the children and adults alike. Add a nice warm cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows, and your evening is probably perfect.
Make sure that the bonfire is not in an enclosed space, as the worst that could happen is causing a forest fire. If your camp ground has a fire pit, we highly recommend using it. Just make sure you always follow the park’s rules.
Playing ‘snap’ especially in a big group, can be tons of fun. Better yet, get some Uno cards, throw together some of your own rules, and watch everyone explode with laughter.
You can even join together some card and board games for extra entertainment! Imagine playing 30 Seconds and Crazy Eights, both at the same time. If you can make that work, you’ll frequently be reminiscing on the experience.
See who can make the tastiest dish using the least time and equipment. Ensure that everyone gets the same set of ingredients, and watch how everyone’s creativity flows. Just make sure there is an impartial judge!
We’re not saying that you need to become an astronomer overnight. However, why not try and spot the Northern Star, the Big Dipper, or even some of the Zodiac signs? You’ll get the joys of both science and beauty during this activity.
Who knows, this might spark a career interest for a member of the family!
Night time can become rather boring when out camping with the family. This is why it is a great idea for everyone to bring a flashlight along to play tag. Demarcating a playing field will ensure that everything is kept fair.
If you’d prefer playing in teams, bring some colored cloth along and tie it to the arms of the respective team members. To add more of a competitive edge, try incorporating some dynamics of Capture the Flag.
Depending on where you go camping, some grounds allow for hiring of canoeing equipment. Taking the family canoeing can be immense fun, especially in the summer heat. Please just make sure everyone can swim!
This one is more for the little kids. Hide some sweet treats around the campsite, give them each a piece of paper with clues, and watch how the little cogs in their minds start to turn. This activity is great fun for both participants and spectators.
Make a mental note about where all the items are. You wouldn’t want any unexpected visitors (i.e wild animals) making a visit.
You want to make sure that you and your family remain cool in the summer sun. This is why we recommend a tent, with an attached tarp to provide that extra bit of shade, be put on your equipment list. Make sure to have a shovel handy to help with the set up!
Ensure that you pack appropriate clothes for the weather and activities. Nobody wants to go hiking in a sweatshirt when the sun is beating down on them. With that being said, make sure to back your basic medication and first-aid kit.
Make sure everyone’s dietary requirements are adhered to. If you plan on taking fresh produce, we recommend purchasing some ice and a cooler box. Making sure they remain cold and fresh will ensure nobody picks up any illnesses.
Lastly, allow books to be read. Camping isn’t just about socializing, but it is also about decompressing and finding your own centre. Whatever makes those in the family happy, allow them to actively partake in those activities.
Q: What do I do if so many different age-groups are coming (e.g Children and Elderly)?
A: Try your best to make sure they all have at least one activity that can keep them busy throughout the trip. Whether it be knitting, reading a book, or birding, allow them the time to do what they enjoy.
Q: How much money does a camping trip usually cost?
A: If you are starting with no equipment, a four-person camping weekend (including the hiring of the grounds) should not be more than $600. After the tent has been purchased, each subsequent trip will be approximately $100, or $25 per person.
The initial price includes all of your camping bags, sleeping bags, and even a few extras.
Q: How do I deal with everyone’s technological devices?
A: Allow an ‘online time’ for about one hour at night time. This lets everyone have something to look forward to, and also allows them to remain in contact with their friends. Remember, in the middle of nowhere there is little to no service anyways!
Q: What is the perfect duration of a family camp in the summer?
A: Usually a weekend should be sufficient, especially seeing as school holidays and work vacation days rarely match-up. However, if you’ve done family camping before and everyone enjoyed it, push for that seven day family adventure.
Camping in the summer is not done as often as it should be! It is the perfect way to strengthen bonds between family members, do some introspection, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Remember, emphasize to all the attendees the importance of staying safe. You don’t want an injury to occur, no matter how eventful it may be.
So what are you waiting for? Round up the family and get packing!
]]>While a shovel may not seem that immediately important, most experienced campers know just how important and essential it is. A shovel's main uses (when it comes to camping and other outdoor excursions) are as follows: to dig a hole for defecation, to move embers around in a campfire, to dig a rain trench around your tent, to level ground to pitch a tent, to dig a fire pit and for off-roading mishaps.
While shovels do come in many different sizes and weights, when it comes to camping, a foldable, lightweight shovel is ideal, so it's easy to carry around on long journeys without weighing you down or taking up too much space.
The EST Gear multitool, foldable shovel is a great option because not only is it an excellent shovel, it also functions se 17 other additional and essential camping tool such as an axe, firestarter, ice pick, saw, bottle opener, and a compass. The shovel has a hardened-steel, reinforced shovel head that is tough enough for any situation and the military-grade aluminum handle makes it lightweight and easy to work with.
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