Howcast

How to Create a Romantic Experience on a Camping Trip

Howcast — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:09:25 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Choose a spot Choose a romantic spot for your campsite and make reservations a few weeks in advance. Consider a site on an ocean or lake, in the mountains, or desert canyon.
TIP: Choose an isolated location to allow you and your partner the privacy to do as you please.
Step 2: Keep it short Limit your trip to two days and one beautiful night to remember. Going too long without a shower, a comfy bed, and modern conveniences can dampen even the most romantic feelings.
Step 3: Plan activities Plan activities to do together during the day that you both enjoy, like hiking, mountain biking, sailing, skiing, horseback riding, or just walking on the beach.
Step 4: Bring easy food Bring a cooler full of picnic food and a bottle of wine, hot cocoa, or your favorite beverages — and don’t forget a decadent dessert.
TIP: Bring a fire starter to light a campfire for snuggling in front of or light some candles for instant romance.
Step 5: Sleep together Keep blankets handy to stay warm together. Before bed, zip two sleeping bags together so you can snuggle and spoon after your great outdoor adventures.
FACT: Studies have shown that people feel more romantic when they’ve gotten some exercise during the day.

You Will Need

Romantic destination
Outdoor activites
Cooler with food and beverages
Warm blankets
2 sleeping bags that zip together
Isolation (optional)
Fire starter or matches and candles (optional)

How to Wash a Tent

Howcast — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 13:02:52 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Sweep out your tent Sweep out your tent with the broom while it is set up. Use the dustpan to collect any dust bunnies and dirt piles.
Step 2: Shake out the sides Grab a side of the tent lightly and gently shake the fabric to remove dust and dirt.
Step 3: Brush off the bottom Brush off the bottom of your tent with your hand or your broom and set it back down on a clean tarp.
Step 4: Fill a washbasin Fill the washbasin with cold water and non-detergent soap. Use the soft rag to wash the sides, inside and out, and the floor of the tent.
TIP: If your tent has mildew, wash it and then dilute an enzyme-based odor remover in a wash tub. Then sponge down the entire tent, but don’t rinse it off.
Step 5: Allow to dry Allow the tent to dry away from direct sunlight.
Step 6: Disassemble Disassemble the tent and hang it on a clothesline to ensure that the bottom of the tent dries.
Step 7: Pack the tent away Pack the tent and your equipment away after the tent has completely dried. Store it in a cool, dry location to prevent mildew from growing on your clean outdoor bungalow.
FACT: The Coleman camping equipment company was founded by W.C. Coleman, a typewriter salesman who had an idea to design and sell gas lanterns.

You Will Need

Broom and dustpan
Tarp
Washbasin
Non-detergent soap
Soft rag
Clothesline
Soft sponge (optional)
Enzyme-based odor remover (optional)

How to Warm Up Fast in the Morning after Camping in the Cold

Howcast — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:00:49 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Set up early Set up your sleeping area early so it can absorb heat during the day. You should bring a foam pad to sleep on, a sleeping bag designed for temperatures colder than you expect, and a tent that has proper ventilation to prevent condensation building up inside.
TIP: Choose synthetic fibers for both your clothes and sleeping bag. Cotton traps moisture and is difficult to dry once it has gotten wet.
Step 2: Eat and drink Drink extra water and consume extra calories during winter backpacking. Food and water are necessary for your body to generate heat.
Step 3: Do pre-bed exercise Do a few jumping jacks or run in place before getting into your sleeping bag. This will heat up your body, which in turn heats up the sleeping bag. Heat the bag; the bag heats you.
TIP: Go to the bathroom before you go to bed. Your body needs to use up energy to keep that extra fluid warm, so get rid of it!
Step 4: Sleep Put a warm, tightly sealed water bottle inside your sleeping bag at your feet to help hold in heat. Never sleep with your face inside the bag, as that will trap moisture. Instead, wear a hat and scarf to keep warm.
TIP: Put tomorrow’s clothes in between your bag and your sleeping pad, and bring your boot insoles or socks into the sleeping bag, to warm them before morning.
Step 5: Layer up Layer up your clothes in the morning. Your body temperature is at its lowest right when you wake up, so you will need these layers until you become more active.
Step 6: Eat Eat a full but short meal in the morning. This could include oatmeal, hot chocolate, or anything that is warm. Eat quickly so you don’t lose body heat sitting still.
Step 7: Get moving Get moving! The longer your body sits without activity, the longer it has to lose heat. So get out and get active.
FACT: As of 2010, the coldest temperature ever recorded in the United States was minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit in Prospect Creek, Alaska, on January 23, 1971.

You Will Need

Foam pad
Sleeping bag
Tent
Water bottle
Hat
Scarf

How to Keep Your Cellphone Charged during a Camping Trip

Howcast — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 10:45:38 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Purchase a spare battery Purchase a spare battery, and bring it along with you on the trip. Swap it out when your cellphone battery loses its charge. Charge the spare battery ahead of time as batteries lose their charge during storage.
TIP: Use a power station that plugs into your cellphone and acts as an external battery for phones that don’t have a removable battery.
Step 2: Plug into a portable power source Plug your cellphone into a portable power source while camping. Portable power sources use size-A batteries, and let you charge your cellphone through an AC plug or a USB plug.
Step 3: Crank a wind-up charger Crank a wind-up charger and plug in your cellphone. If you don’t have access to batteries while on your camping trip, use your own physical strength to charge your phone.
Step 4: Camp near an outlet Camp in a park that is RV accessible. These parks usually provide electrical hookups and adapters so you can use them to plug in your phone.
FACT: In 1977, the FCC allowed cellphones to be publicly tested with 2,000 customers in the city of Chicago.

You Will Need

Spare battery
Portable power source
Batteries
Wind-up charger
RV-accessible park
Power station (optional)

How to Buy Used Camping & Hiking Gear

Howcast — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:15:39 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Purchase locally Look for used camping and hiking equipment at garage sales, or check the local newspaper classifieds for used outdoor equipment. Buying locally lets you inspect the equipment before you buy it and saves you delivery charges.
Step 2: Check eBay Search for equipment eBay at ebay.com if you can’t find the equipment you want locally. Many times you can find good used hiking and backpacking gear that has only been used once or twice.
TIP: Sellers on eBay are rated. Check the ratings to ensure you only buy from sellers that have proven themselves reliable in the past.
Step 3: Check a specialty website As an alternative, look for equipment on a website that specializes in used outdoor gear like geartrade.com or mec.ca. Sites like these make it easy to compare prices.
Step 4: Consider buying discounted new equipment Consider purchasing discounted new equipment if you still can’t find what you are looking for. Amazon.com is a good source of discounted new outdoor gear. One way or another you should be able to save some money on your equipment.
FACT: When the ice-preserved mummy of a man who lived around 3300 BCE was discovered in 1991, the man was found to be wearing waterproof leather shoes lined with grass.

You Will Need

Local sources
Websites

How to Make a Basic Shower While Camping

Howcast — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:31:22 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the hose off Cut the hose from the bottle, leaving a 1-inch section coming out of the bottle. Then cut the hose off of the sprayer, again leaving a 1-inch section of hose attached to the sprayer.
Step 2: Replace the hose with tubing Slide one end of the medical tubing over the section of hose you left on the sprayer and secure it by tightly wrapping thick rubber bands around it. Then fit the other end of the tubing over the section of hose connected to the bottle, again securing with rubber bands.
TIP: You can also tape or epoxy the tubing in place, but you won’t be able to disassemble your shower for storage.
Step 3: Check for leaks Fill the bottle with water, pump the spray bottle, and squeeze the trigger on the sprayer. If there are any leaks, remove the tubing and reattach it with tighter rubber bands.
Step 4: Heat your water Heat your shower water by double-bagging it in black plastic bags, squeezing the air out before sealing the bags, and letting it sit in the sun for a few hours.
Step 5: Make an enclosure Build a shower enclosure by throwing a length of rope over a tree limb, and attaching the handle of an umbrella to the rope. Open the umbrella and hang a shower curtain along the umbrella’s ribs.
TIP: You can cut a hole in the umbrella, fit the sprayer through the hole, and lock the trigger down for a hands-free shower.
Step 6: Be clean while you camp Enjoy your camping excursion while maintaining a modicum of personal hygiene. Go for a hike smelling fresh as a daisy.
FACT: According to a national survey, 33.1 million Americans engaged in primitive camping in 2004.

You Will Need

1-gallon pump spray bottle
Knife
10 feet of rubber medical tubing
Several thick rubber bands
Black plastic bags
Rope
Umbrella
Duct tape or epoxy (optional)

How to Make Camping More Comfortable

Howcast — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 13:45:44 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Pack clothing and protection Pack extra clothing for all sorts of weather, including rain gear and extra boots. Remember to pack sunscreen, bug sprays, and a first-aid kit. Nothing is less comfortable than suffering burns, bites, and injuries.
TIP: Drink a tablespoon of white vinegar three times daily for the week before your trip, as well as during the trip, to keep the mosquitoes away.
Step 2: Stash food Stash food in tin canisters to keep it safe and fresh. Use coffee cans to keep toilet paper dry and store matches and money in screw-top jars.
Step 3: Set up tents Set up a compartmentalized tent, which can zipper to a storage tent or other tents. Quarantine a bug-free tent exclusively for meals.
Step 4: Make a bed Fold bubble wrap for a cushy mat. Be thrifty and use the wrap as a mattress as well, or bring along a foam or air mattress.
Step 5: Use aluminum foil Use aluminum foil to cover drinks, layer it to use as cookware, or use it as a cooking workspace.
TIP: Consider getting cooking stations with sinks, cupboards, counter tops, and lighting.
Step 6: Get more light Construct a foil or pie pan reflector to duct tape around lights and brighten things around the camp. String LED lights to illuminate the campground for natural nocturnal emergencies. Now enjoy your comfortable camping trip with friends or family.
FACT: More than 275 million visits were recorded in America’s national park system in 2007 — 3 million more than in 2006.

You Will Need

Sunscreen
Bug spray
First-aid kit
Tin canisters
Coffee cans
Screw-top jars
Tents
Bubble wrap
Foam or air mattress
Aluminum foil
Duct tape
Lights
White vinegar (optional)
Cooking stations (optional)

How to Go Winter Camping

Howcast — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 11:30:50 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Dress in layers Prepare for the cold conditions by dressing in layers. Thermal underwear, insulated fleece, and water- and windproof outerwear are a must.
Step 2: Keep feet and hands warm Keep your feet and hands warm by wearing insulated boots and gloves that have a waterproof outer shell.
Step 3: Protect face, neck, and head Protect your face, neck, and head from the cold by wearing a balaclava.
Step 4: Bring water and food Bring plenty of water and carbohydrate-rich food that is easy to prepare. Carbohydrates will provide fuel for hiking as well as keep your body warm.
TIP: Keep the water bottles in a wool sock to prevent them from freezing.
Step 5: Select a tent Select a tent that is sturdy and that will protect you from high winds and snow buildup. Use snow flukes or snow stakes to anchor your tent. Bring a tarp to set on the floor to help keep snow and ice out.
Step 6: Find a campsite Find a campsite that is sheltered from the wind. Bring a closed-cell foam pad to sit on and to use beneath your sleeping bag to keep you further insulated from the ground.
TIP: Vent your tent as much as possible to deter condensation from forming on the tent walls.
Step 7: Relax and have fun Stay warm during the day by taking advantage of all the activities the great outdoors have to offer: hiking, cross-country skiing, or fishing. At night, sit back, relax, and star gaze under the winter sky.
FACT: The average American family takes an estimated 4 1/2 trips a year.

You Will Need

Waterproof
insulated clothing
Boots and gloves
Balaclava
Water
Carbohydrates
Tent
Snow flukes or snow stakes
Sheltered campsite
Closed-cell foam pad
Sleeping bag
Wool sock (optional)

How to Take Dogs Camping

Howcast — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 13:01:05 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Be sure your dogs are allowed to camp with you Contact the campgrounds or park you will be visiting, and be sure your dogs are allowed in the camping areas and on the trails.
TIP: Make sure your dogs are in shape to keep up with you while you’re camping. If you want to hike, make sure your dogs can handle the distance and difficulty of the trails.
Step 2: Check dogs’ vaccinations and ID tags Check to be sure your dogs’ vaccinations are up-to-date. Make temporary ID tags for your dogs and include a phone number where you can be reached while you’re camping, and the phone number for the campground or park where you’ll be staying.
Step 3: Bring supplies Bring supplies your dogs will need. Pack food and water, dishes, a towel, a first aid kit, bags to clean up after your dogs, and extra leashes in case your first ones gets broken.
TIP: Buy doggy backpacks if your dogs are over 20 pounds and over a year old. Then they can help carry some of their supplies.
Step 4: Decide if you want the dogs to sleep in the tent with you Decide whether or not you want your dogs to sleep in the tent with you. If you don’t, buy lightweight, collapsible crates.
Step 5: Keep an eye on your dogs when hiking Keep a close eye on your dogs if you go hiking and use a leash to keep your dogs close to you. Inspect their fur and paws carefully for any cuts, ticks, or burrs when you return to the campsite.
TIP: Apply sunscreen to your dogs’ nose and ears when you’ll be in the sun for a long time. If you have dogs with short hair or light skin, you may need to apply sunscreen across their back as well.
Step 6: Respect other campers Respect other campers who might be staying near you. Keep your dogs from barking, and clean up after them. Never leave your dogs unsupervised outside.
Step 7: Involve your dogs in all your activities Involve your dogs in all of your activities while you’re camping. Take them for walks, grill them some treats, and play fetch around your campsite. Have a great time, and your dogs will be excitedly waiting for your next big camping trip.
FACT: In 1872, Yellowstone was officially established as America’s first national park. Today, the park stretches across parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, covering over 2.2 million acres of land.

You Will Need

Vaccination records
Temporary ID tags
Food
Water
Dishes
Towel
First aid kit
Clean-up bags
Extra leashes
Lightweight
collapsible crates
Dog backpack (optional)
Sunscreen (optional)

How to Make a Hot Water Shower While Camping

Howcast — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 11:15:44 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Purchase a sprayer Purchase a compressed-air sprayer from a lawn and garden supply vendor. Choose a 1- or 2-gallon model with a spray hose that extends several feet and a wand that is a couple of feet long.
TIP: Do not use a sprayer that has been used to apply lawn or garden chemicals.
Step 2: Extend the hose length Extend the length of the spray hose by replacing the original hose with a length of flexible rubber medical tubing. Leave an inch of the original hose connected to the bottle and the wand, and then secure the rubber tubing to the ends with heavy-duty rubber bands or duct tape.
Step 3: Fill the bottle Fill the compressed-air bottle with water, and then transfer the water to a large plastic bag. Place a second plastic bag around the first bag.
Step 4: Hang the bags Use the rope and clips to hang the bags from a tree in a warm, sunny location during the day. The water will make the water warm, but not hot, in several hours.
Step 5: Heat the water in a large cooking vessel Heat the water in a large cooking vessel over a stove or fire if you want hotter water. Transfer the heated water to the compressed air bottle, making sure it is a suitable temperature for your shower. Then lather up.
FACT: Ancient Egyptians took indoor showers by having their servants pour hot water over them.

You Will Need

Compressed-air sprayer
Rubber tubing
Rubber bands or duct tape
Plastic bags
Sunny location
Rope and clips
Cooking pot
Camp stove or fire

How to Keep Food from Spoiling on a Camping Trip

Howcast — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:15:39 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Keep food hot or cold Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Most food bacteria stop growing at temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit and above 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The in-between range is the danger zone.
Step 2: Practice good hygiene Practice good hygiene. Bacteria present on raw meat can spread to other foods if juices are allowed to drip from packages, hands, or utensils.
Step 3: Transport food cold Transport food in the cold state. It is easier to keep things cold than it is to keep them hot. Use frozen gel-packs or frozen box drinks as cold sources.
Step 4: Bring disposable wipes Bring disposable wipes to clean dishes if clean water will not be available.
TIP: If you plan to use water from streams, lakes, or springs, be sure to purify it first. The safest way to purify water is to boil it.
Step 5: Carry shelf-stable foods Carry light-weight, shelf-stable items for the duration of your trip. Cold foods are best used on the first day of camping.
Step 6: Use a food thermometer Use a food thermometer when cooking meat or poultry over an open fire or on a portable stove to make sure it is fully cooked. Always be sure to clean the thermometer after using it.
Step 7: Enjoy your trip Enjoy your healthy, food-poisoning-free camping trip.
FACT: More than 700 serotypes of E. coli have been identified.

You Will Need

Hot foods
Cold foods
Good hygiene
Frozen gel-packs or frozen box drinks
Disposable wipes
Shelf-stable items
Food thermometer

How to Choose a Camping Location

Howcast — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 11:01:15 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Explore the area Explore the area thoroughly while there is still plenty of daylight.
Step 2: Look for positive features Look for resources that make camping easier and avoid dangerous landscape. Make sure there is a nearby source of water. Be on the lookout for potential hazards such as overhead branches and loose rockfall.
TIP: Consult a topographical map to see where the wind and rising heat will likely come from. If you don’t have a topographical map or don’t know how to read one, remember that warm air rises, so higher locations will be warmer at night.
Step 3: Consider weather extremes Give some thought to how the site will fare in weather extremes such as high winds, flash floods, and electrical storms.
Step 4: Look for previously used campsites Seek out campsites that have been used by others in the past. Don’t camp on top of sensitive vegetation or plants that are endangered or threatened, and vary your routes to your water source and the latrine so that they don’t damage the site.
Step 5: Consider local conditions Choose a site that provides a natural response to local conditions. Seek out the shade of the forest in summer, and a site some distance from water in mosquito country. Now you’re ready to head for the back country.
FACT: John Wesley Powell was given authorization in 1884 to begin the first systematic topographic mapping of the United States.

You Will Need

Daylight
Previously used site
Responsiveness to local conditions
Topographical map (optional)

How to Roast Wieners over a Campfire

Howcast — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 08:46:17 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Locate a roasting stick Look for a green forked branch to use as a roasting stick.
TIP: The branch should be 3 to 4 feet in length so that you don’t have to get too close to the fire.
Step 2: Build a campfire Build a campfire and let it burn down to glowing orange coals.
Step 3: Strip the roasting stick Strip the bark from the last 6 inches of the roasting stick using a sharp knife while waiting for the fire to burn down.
Step 4: Skewer the wiener Skewer the hot dog on the forked end of the roasting stick.
Step 5: Roast the wiener Roast the frank over the hot coals until it is fully cooked. This should take about five minutes. Once you’ve mastered wieners, you can move on to marshmallows!
FACT: The modern sausage in a bun was called a “hot dog” for the first time at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904.

You Will Need

Stick
Campfire
Hot coals
Knife
Wiener

How to Wash Clothes in a Lake with Phosphate-Free Soap

Howcast — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 11:45:43 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Collect water Collect water from the lake with the bucket and bring it to your campsite.
Step 2: Hang rope Hang a clothesline between two trees to dry your clothes after washing them.
TIP: Wash your clothes before the heat of the day, so they’ll be dry by the time you will need them.
Step 3: Drop clothes into bucket Drop your dirty clothes into the bucket and soak them in the water.
Step 4: Lather with soap Lather each item of clothing with phosphate-free soap and scrub the clothes with your hands to clean them.
Step 5: Rinse Rinse your clothes in the bucket of water and then ring out the excess water.
Step 6: Hang clothes Hang your clothes on the line with clothes pins and allow them to dry.
Step 7: Dump water Dump the soapy water onto a rocky or sandy area to allow for evaporation.
FACT: Phosphates are a food source for algae and can cause algae growth to increase, which may make water sources unsuitable for drinking and swimming.

You Will Need

Bucket
Clothesline
Clothes pins
Rocky or sandy area

How to Pack According to the Ultimate Camping Checklist

Howcast — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 14:16:02 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Pack protection and comfort Pack tents, stakes, poles, fly sheets, rope, and a tarp to protect against the elements. Ensure comfort inside with pillows, pads, and air mattresses. Don’t forget the air pump!
Step 2: Bring fire and cookware Jam in the cook stove, cooler, and a supply of clean water. You’ll need can openers, bowls, pots, pans, and maybe a griddle, depending on the menu. Bring fire starters and newspaper, which means a fire extinguisher for emergencies.
TIP: Cover the basics and make sure you have the camp permit signed, sealed, and safe in a spot where it won’t get moved.
Step 3: Stock food Box up canned goods, peanut butter, and bread, as well as tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, for basic nutrition. Toss in some spices for special meals. Keep the butter, eggs, cheese, vegetables, and juices in the cooler.
Step 4: Prepare and clean Include aluminum foil, plastic bags, and cutting knives to make and keep food. This means you will need measuring cups, tongs, garbage bags, a pot scrubber, paper towels, and dish soap, even if you supply napkins and paper plates.
Step 5: Plan for the worst Light up the darkness with candles and waterproof matches, flashlights and extra batteries, and a lantern. Pack fly swatters, hatchets, and mosquito repellent. To handle other eventualities, don’t forget the broom and dustpan, and always carry duct tape, if only to fix something on the car.
Step 6: Anticipate bad weather Anticipate every kind of weather by complementing a supply of shorts, tank tops, and swim trunks with hats, long johns, and sweatshirts. Rain ponchos and boots should be stuffed somewhere in the back of the vehicle, because if you don’t bring them, you’ll suddenly need them.
Step 7: Maintain hygiene Preserve good hygiene by remembering shampoo, soap, a shaving kit, toothpaste, and toilet paper.
TIP: Cosmetics, deodorants, and other sprays attract bugs, so avoid them if you can.
Step 8: Tote the cell Tote a cellphone for emergency communications, but nothing else if you’re out to have a quiet commune with nature.
Step 9: Supply first aid Tuck in the first-aid kit, tools, chairs, camera, books, and sewing kit and you’re sure to have a great, safe time — as long as you don’t forget your wallet.
FACT: The founder of recreational camping, Thomas Hiram Holding, wrote the first “Camper’s Handbook” in 1908. He crossed the American prairies with his parents as a child.

You Will Need

Protection from the elements
Cooking tools
Food
Storage supplies
Lighting
Insect repellant
Cleaning supplies
Clothing for all weather
Hygiene supplies
Cellphone
First-aid kit
Leisure supplies

How to Make a Campsite Washing Machine

Howcast — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 14:00:51 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Cut a hole in the bucket lid Use the saw to cut a hole in the center of the bucket’s lid, big enough for your toilet plunger handle to fit through.
Step 2: Insert plunger Put the plunger inside the bucket and fill the bucket with water, dirty clothes, and laundry detergent.
TIP: Use the saw to cut three quarter-sized holes in the plunger for easier movement through the water.
Step 3: Snap the lid on Snap the lid on the bucket with the plunger’s handle going through the hole in the lid. Move the plunger up and down like you would an old-fashioned butter churn, simulating a washing machine agitator.
Step 4: Wash the clothes for three to four minutes, or longer if they’re really dirty.
FACT: It takes approximately 35 gallons of water to wash a small load of clothes in a washing machine.

You Will Need

Hole saw
5-gal. bucket with lid
Plunger
Water
Dirty clothes
Laundry detergent
Clothesline or tree branch
Waterproof permanent marker (optional)

How to Get Your Husband or Wife to Enjoy Camping More

Howcast — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 13:16:20 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Check for bathroom accommodations Choose a park or campground with bathroom facilities. A lot of people shudder at the thought of using an outhouse, or worse — a hole. Many state parks and campgrounds offer bathrooms complete with showers that are cleaned and maintained regularly.
Step 2: Bring furniture Bring furniture, such as an air mattress and folding chairs. Many people don’t like camping because they’re uncomfortable sleeping in a sleeping bag on the ground or sitting in the dirt.
TIP: Push sticks into the ground and hang your shoes or boots on them to keep bugs out.
Step 3: Use a camp stove Use a camp stove. Many people don’t know how to cook over a campfire, but, with a propane-powered camp stove, you can cook almost as if you were at home. Prepare simple recipes and don’t forget utensils.
Step 4: Bring something to do Avoid your spouse’s potential boredom by bringing along activities. Pack a classic board game and a deck of cards, bring a book, or bring an iPod loaded with their favorite songs.
Step 5: Bring romance Plan something romantic. Drink wine out of paper cups under the stars, pack a picnic basket and hold hands on a hike, or have dinner by moon and candlelight.
Step 6: Relax together Relax together and remind your spouse that they don’t have to worry about workaday stress. Comment on how the sounds of birds and crickets are preferable to the sounds of cellphones and traffic.
Step 7: Don’t be obsessive about hygiene Don’t comment on the way your spouse looks when you’re in the wilderness. Tell your wife how good she looks without makeup, or tell your husband how rugged and sexy he looks with a 3-day beard. Take the time to tell your spouse how much you appreciate their company and you’ll both be sure to enjoy your excursion.
FACT: The National Park System covers 80.7 million acres of land across the United States.

You Will Need

Furniture
Bathrooms
Camp stove
Utensils
Things to do
Romantic plans
Compliments
Sticks (optional)
Toilet paper (optional)

How to Find a Good Tent for Camping

Howcast — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:30:53 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Determine head count Determine the number of people that will sleep in your tent. If you plan to store gear in the tent with you, you may want to buy a bigger tent.
Step 2: Determine seasonal use Determine during which seasons you will use the tent. Check for ventilation and a rain fly so you are prepared for hot or wet weather that may roll in.
TIP: Tents are classified as two-, three-, or all-season and vary in price based on these classifications.
Step 3: Choose tent style Choose the tent style based on usage. If you are a primitive camper, then you will want a backpacking tent rather than a heavy-duty family tent.
Step 4: Check the waterproofing and zippers Check all seams for waterproofing and the zippers for durability. The base of the tent should be made of a tarp-like material and should wrap up the walls of the tent at least 4 inches, if not more.
Step 5: Check the poles and material Check the poles and tent material. If the fabric or poles are cheaply made, your tent won’t last more than one or two seasons.
Step 6: Choose a tent Choose a tent that is reasonably priced and meets all of your needs. Check online to compare prices before heading out to the store to buy your new wilderness abode.
FACT: The yurt, a round tent used by nomads in Central and Northern Asia, was first recorded in historical documents by Herodotus, the famed Greek historian.

You Will Need

Head count
Season in mind
Internet research

How to Make a Camp Oven

Howcast — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:45:41 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Cut off the flaps Make sure your box is large enough to contain your campfire grill. Then use your knife to cut the flaps off the top of the box.
Step 2: Cut ventilation holes Cut three ventilation holes near the bottom of the box, through two facing sides. This will allow oxygen to enter the oven while allowing other gasses to escape.
Step 3: Cover with aluminum foil Cover the outside of the box and completely line the inside of the box with aluminum foil. Use the sponge and craft glue to adhere the foil to the box.
TIP: You can also staple the foil to the box.
Step 4: Season your oven Dab a rag in cooking oil and spread a light coat of oil over the aluminum foil lining of your oven to season it.
Step 5: Cut a flap Cut a flap into one side of your oven to allow you to check on and remove your food. Use a stick to open and close the flap.
Step 6: bake your food Create a fire in your fire pit and set your grill over the fire. When the fire dies down and you have red-hot coals, set your food on the grill and place your oven, open-side down, over your food. Now you can bake up dinner.
FACT: Human activity is the primary cause of wilderness fires.

You Will Need

Cardboard box
Campfire grill
Knife
Aluminum foil
Sponge
Craft glue
Rag
Cooking oil
Stick
Campfire
Stapler (optional)

How to Go to the Bathroom While Camping

Howcast — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:31:06 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Pick a spot When it comes to doing your business while camping, finding the right spot is key. Choose a location at least 200 feet away from any trail, campsite, or body of water to avoid contaminating areas used for cooking, eating, or drinking.
TIP: If there’s an outhouse available, use it.
Step 2: Dig a hole Dig a hole at least 6 inches deep and about 8 inches across in which to go.
Step 3: Use the facilities Squat above the hole, making sure your clothes are out of harm’s way, and go to the bathroom. When you finish, clean yourself with toilet paper or odorless baby wipes.
Step 4: Leave no trace Place used toilet paper or wipes in an airtight freezer bag you carry with you — considerate camping means taking out any foreign objects you brought in.
TIP: Place any used feminine products in the freezer bag, too.
Step 5: Fill the hole Fill the hole with soil, pat down the top, and place a rock on the mound so future hikers won’t dig in the same spot accidentally. Put the trowel and unused sanitary materials away. Then, sanitize your hands, and get back to your camping adventure.
FACT: In 2009, 562 people hiked the entire Appalachian trail, which covers over 2,100 miles between Maine and Georgia.

You Will Need

Trowel
Toilet paper or odorless baby wipes
Sealable freezer bags
Rock
Hand sanitizer
Outhouse (optional)

How to Pitch a Pop-Up Tent

Howcast — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 15:02:33 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Remove the tent from its carrying bag Open the tent bag. Remove the tent and other parts, such as pegs, guy wires, or waterproof fly.
TIP: Practice setting the tent up at home before your camping trip.
Step 2: Remove the restraining straps for a spring-action tent Grasp the edge of the tent and the internal support wires firmly for a spring-action tent. Remove the restraining straps. The tent erects itself automatically as a dome.
Step 3: Expand the ribs of an umbrella tent Place your weight on the top of an umbrella tent, forcing its series of flexible ribs to bow outwards. The expanded tent pops into place in a dome shape.
TIP: Collapsed umbrella tents are long and thin, like beach umbrellas.
Step 4: Secure the tent on the ground Position the tent on the ground, and secure it with pegs and guy wires as described in the tent manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 5: Attach a tent fly Attach a tent fly if there is any chance of rain.
FACT: Did you know? Portions of the tents used by George Washington’s troops during the last major battle of the American Revolution are exhibited at the National Museum of American History.

You Will Need

A pop-up tent
A carrying bag with set-up equipment
Pegs
Guy wires
A waterproof tent fly
Support wires and restraining straps
Manufacturer’s instructions

How to Make Camping Recipes from Prepared Food

Howcast — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 12:04:54 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare a snack Fix up a blend of your favorite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, wheat crackers, and raisins at home. Store it in a zip-lock bag for snacks on the trail.
Step 2: Stir up oatmeal Combine a mixture of instant rolled oats and dried fruit at home. In camp, add the mixture to boiling water and let it stand until the oatmeal is cooked.
Step 3: Make stew or soup Cook up a stew or soup at home. Refrigerate it overnight, then transport it to your camp in a portable cooler.
Step 4: Bake a casserole Bake a casserole at home. Let it cool to room temperature, then freeze it. Carry it to your camp in a portable freezer, and thaw it out in time for your meal.
TIP: Don’t pack food if it has just been cooked and is still warm. Refrigerate the cooked food overnight before packing.
Step 5: Pack ice blocks Remember to pack plenty of ice blocks or gel packs around any perishable food that you transport to camp. You can also use frozen drinks as cooling bricks. Now all you have to do is wait for mess call.
FACT: The first s’mores recipe appeared in the 1927 Girl Scout Handbook with the title ‘Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts.’

You Will Need

Prepared food
Cooler
Freezer
Ice blocks
gel packs
or frozen drinks

How to Choose a Camping Spot on a Road Trip

Howcast — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 16:02:19 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Stop at a visitor center Stop at the visitor’s center to ask about different campsites. Ask a about local hazards, such as fire ants, poisonous snakes, bears, and poison ivy before setting up a tent.
Step 2: Pick a spot near the road Pick a spot near the road. When you’re on a road trip, you don’t want to waste time hiking to and from your campsite.
TIP: The campsite should be no more than a half mile from your vehicle.
Step 3: Find a level area Find a level spot that gets a mixture of sun and shade.
Step 4: Camp near water Set up camp near a lake or river. You don’t want to waste valuable car space on perishable food, but you’re going to have to eat, so camp near a good fishing spot.
TIP: Bring a portable fireplace. Your campsite may not have a fire pit, and you’ll need a fire to cook dinner.
Step 5: Choose a spot near the bathrooms Choose a spot close to a bathroom — ideally, bathrooms with showers.
Step 6: Pick a spot with activities Pick a spot close to activities your family enjoys, such as a playground or hiking trails.
FACT: Carbon monoxide poisoning causes approximately 30 deaths and hundreds of injuries each year, many from people sleeping in an enclosed area with portable heaters and lanterns.

You Will Need

Visitor’s center
Level ground
Lake or river
Bathrooms
Playground or hiking trails
Portable fireplace (optional)

How to Choose a Good Camp Spot

Howcast — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 11:16:13 +0000

Instructions

Step 1: Choose an attractive location Choose a location that offers attractive scenery where you will enjoy spending time.
Step 2: Choose a site close to water Locate your site close to a source of clean water if you are not bringing water with you.
TIP: Avoid setting up a camp site on low ground if there is a chance that it might rain.
Step 3: Choose a site near firewood Choose a site where the collection of dry firewood is permitted if you plan to use wood as your source of fuel.
Step 4: Choose a previously used site Choose a camp site that has already been used by other campers. This minimizes your impact on the land.
Step 5: Choose a site with privacy Select a camp site that affords privacy and that is away from outside disturbances.
FACT: Did you know? Some consider the yurt used by Mongolian nomads to be a parallel to the Native American teepee.

You Will Need

Attractive location
Water
Fuel
Previously used location
Privacy
High ground (optional)