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5 ½ Tips for Camping

Hello heatwave, who’s ready to escape to the mountains? If you want to beat the heat or just get out of the city, Idaho has some amazing camping spots. Whether you plan on pitching a tent or staying in an RV, here are some tips to help make your camping trip better and safer.

tent and sleeping bags on a ridge overlooking sunrise

1) Find the perfect spot

Whether you’re going off the grid or to a well-known campground, it’s important to do some research on where you’re camping. For some places in Idaho, make sure to reserve your spot ahead of time before they fill up. Some beautiful places to check out are Stanley Lake, Redfish Lake, and Bear Lake.

2) Bringing the right equipment

Now that you’ve found your campsite, it’s time to figure out what to pack. The Outdoor Rental Center has plenty of supplies available to rent like tents, sleeping pads, and backpacks. Pop-up tents are easy to set up, so you can spend more time exploring the area.  Just don’t forget to zip it up before you leave to keep animals and bugs out.

3) Don’t forget the bug spray

Unless you want to be eaten alive by mosquitos and other insects, bug spray will come in handy while camping. Another tip is to spray your tent with bug spray so they won’t bother you during the night. There are a variety of bug repellants like spray, candles, or devices that attach to clothing.

4) Grab a firestarter kit

If you’re camping in a place without a grill or there are no restaurants nearby, a fire starter kit is an easy way to get cooking. The Outdoor Rental Center also has a dutch oven or a burner stove for rent if that’s more your style. Prepare and meal prep things like meat and vegetables, so all you have to do is throw it over the fire. Once you’re all done cooking (and enjoyed some s’mores for dessert, of course), don’t forget to put out the fire to keep you and the wildlife safe. Also make sure to check the fire danger level, and if fires are even allowed.

5) Pack the essentials

We always remember food and water, but don’t forget extra clothes, blankets, and tools. Bring a tool box to help pitch a tent or cut a piece of rope. Depending on where you’re camping, it could get really cold at night so make sure to pack warm layers and blankets.

5 ½) Stay away from the bears

The provided video shows a man running away from a bear who eventually catches up only for the man to turn towards the bear and feed it an ice cream cone. The video does not contain spoken audio.

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