12 Tips for Camping: New Skills and Gear

Summer is almost here and it is June already, which means a lot of people are going to be out there camping in Ontario.

Here are some tips, new skills and gear that even experienced campers might find helpful:

1. Ultralight Backpacking: Invest in lightweight and compact camping gear to reduce the weight of your backpack. Look for ultralight tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment to make your trek more comfortable.

2. Navigation Skills: Improve your navigation skills beyond relying on GPS devices. Learn to use a map and compass to navigate through unfamiliar terrain. Familiarize yourself with basic orienteering techniques, such as reading topographic maps and using landmarks.

3. Leave No Trace: Embrace the principles of Leave No Trace (LNT) to minimize your impact on the environment. Practice responsible camping by packing out all your trash, disposing of waste properly, and leaving the campsite as pristine as you found it.

4. Advanced Fire Building: Go beyond basic fire-building skills by learning advanced techniques. Explore methods like the Swedish Fire Torch or Dakota Fire Hole, which maximize fuel efficiency and heat output while minimizing environmental impact.

5. Backcountry Cooking: Master the art of backcountry cooking by experimenting with dehydrated meals, one-pot recipes, and campfire cooking techniques. Learn to prepare gourmet meals with minimal equipment and ingredients, making your camping experience more enjoyable.

6. Wilderness First Aid: Enroll in a wilderness first aid course to enhance your emergency response skills. Learn how to assess injuries, treat common outdoor ailments, and administer basic first aid in remote locations.

7. Weather Forecasting: Develop the ability to interpret weather patterns and forecasts. Study cloud formations, wind direction, and other natural indicators to anticipate changing weather conditions. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about safety and itinerary changes.

8. Knot Tying: Expand your repertoire of knots beyond the basic ones. Learn advanced knots like the taut-line hitch, trucker's hitch, and bowline on a bight. These knots can be invaluable for securing tarps, setting up complex shelters, or creating improvised equipment.

9. Improvised Shelter Building: Practice building emergency shelters using natural materials. Learn how to construct different types of shelters, such as lean-tos, debris huts, or snow caves, to protect yourself in unexpected situations.

10. Advanced Water Filtration: Upgrade your water filtration system to handle diverse water sources. Invest in a reliable water filter or purifier that can remove viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. This allows you to safely drink from streams, lakes, or other untreated water sources.

11. Stealth Camping: Explore the world of stealth camping, which involves discreetly camping in non-designated areas. Learn how to find hidden spots, minimize your impact, and maintain a low profile to enjoy a unique camping experience.

12. Primitive Skills: Delve into primitive skills such as fire making without matches, foraging for edible plants, or carving your own tools. Expanding your knowledge of traditional survival techniques can add depth to your camping adventures.

Remember, these tips are for experienced campers who are seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge. Always prioritize safety and responsible outdoor practices while enjoying your advanced camping experiences.