Survival Guide - Chances are you won’t have to end up eating your hiking boot leather or improvising traps for wild animals on your camping trip if you plan things out right. But it’s always nice to have the option of acting out your own version of Into The Wild if you feel like it. Survival Guide gives users tons of helpful tips on everything from creating a shelter to identifying edible plants in the wilderness.

iHandy Flashlight Free – While you should probably pack a few flashlights and some backup batteries before you head off to the local wilderness area, it’s always good to have a fallback plan. If there were an award for truth in advertising, iHandy Flashlight Freewould win in a landslide. It does exactly what you’d expect it to do, providing illumination via the iPhone’s camera light in a number of different modes.

TrailBehind: Find Adventures Nearby – Spending time outdoors will necessarily involve a bit of hiking. TrailBehind gives you access to some of the most comprehensive trail and hiking maps you can find on any iPhone. If you get lost with TrailBehind on your iPhone, it won’t be because of this highly accurate and up-to-date map app.

My-Cast Weather Radar – Nobody likes it when the weather decides to rain on their parade, and that’s doubly true when it comes to camping outdoors. My-Cast Weather Radar gives you a heads up on incoming storms and inclement weather with full-featured Doppler maps and severe weather alerts.

Star Walk – 5 Stars Astronomy Guide – One of the best things about camping is sleeping under the stars. Identifying constellations is a major component of the fun, which is why Star Walk is a must-have for astronomy lovers. It’ll help you find new constellations, rediscover old ones, and make the most of your stargazing regardless of what hemisphere you find yourself in.

All of the aforementioned applications were chosen not only for their utility in a camping scenario, but also for the high marks they receive from users. Thoroughly tested in the field by thousands of iOS users, these applications are guaranteed to be worth it in the few cases where they’ll actually cost you anything. If you’re planning an overnight stay outdoors, make sure to take these handy apps along with you.

Author S. Dawson writes for Tundraheadquarters.com, the place for interesting articles on truck accessories as well as reviews of truck camping gear, like tents, truck bed air mattresses, and more.

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Basic Ice Chest Tips

Depending on the size of the group or family, quite a few ice chests may be necessary, especially on trips longer than three days. A family of four can typically get by with three ice chests, and each has a specific purpose. One cooler should be set aside for perishable food, another for drinks, and one for frozen goods. Using separate ice chests reduces the time they remain open while campers are looking for a particular item; thus, the ice will last longer and food remains cooler.

Drink coolers work best with cubed ice, while you will want to use ice blocks within the perishable foods and frozen chests. Keep the chests in a shaded area when it is hot outdoors and consider laying a tarp or insulated sleeping bag atop them to preserve temperatures. Take time to empty excess water out of the coolers daily to reduce the risk of cross contamination and bacteria.

Make Block Ice

Many families keep a stash of milk jugs, plastic juice containers and so forth on hand to store away water for emergencies, and camping is a great time to use those resources. However, do not simply take the water bottles as they are. Freeze them along with some smaller portable water bottles, and then use them as ice blocks within the coolers. Not only is this ice virtually free, it lasts much longer and reduces the need for draining the ice chests daily. When camping in winter, temperatures could drop low enough to refreeze these containers overnight. Naturally, when the receptacles thaw, precious drinking water remains.

Camp Freezer Tips

If camping for more than a few days is on the agenda, consider investing in an extra-insulated cooler. These are more durable and will extend the longevity of ice blocks. Hard freeze the meats that you plan to use on the trip beforehand, so they will be thawed around the third or fourth day into the camping adventure. Some campers prefer to use dry ice in their camp freezer, which allows them to bring frozen treats. Keep in mind that however effective, dry ice is risky if younger children are coming along for the trip, as it can burn the skin in mere seconds.

Keep the Critters and Bugs Away

By far, food is what most attracts pests to the campsite, and it is advisable to store away all nonperishable foods and coolers in a vehicle or tent if possible. Even if there is no risk for bears, raccoons and other clever creatures, have no trouble breaking into ice chests or food boxes. Concerning food at the campsite, make sure to avoid dropping scraps nearby or pouring grease onto the ground. Animals can smell these particulates for great distances, and will surely attempt to find them. Rinse all cans and containers before throwing them away, and try to remove trash from the site daily.

Whether one plans to camp in a small state park, such as the one near Inks Lake in Texas or head to a majestic national park, water and nutrition are staples that cannot be done without. Keeping these tips in mind will allow campers to enjoy a smoother experience when it comes to handling the food and beverage aspect of any outdoor adventure.

Tracey Mastic first enjoyed camping, and then living, by the Highland Lakes in the Texas Hill Country.  She enjoys writing about the area so that visitors can enjoy what it has to offer.

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The first thing you want to do is to choose where you want to camp. For the beginner I would suggest a state or government run park with campsites. These are convenient to get to and most provide restrooms. They also have hiking trails and some have wildlife displays to enjoy. Many of these campsites are closed during the winter months so be sure to do your research. If you want to do your camping in the “wild” it would be best to go with an experienced winter camper. They will know the good camping spots and what it will take to enjoy your camping trip safely.

Next you need to ask yourself what you will need to keep warm. Two of the greatest dangers in winter camping are frostbite and hypothermia. Be sure to pack supplies that protect you against the cold. This may sound so obvious but it is an area that deserves a lot of thought. Several changes of warm clothing that can be layered is ideal for keeping warm. Be sure to pack an extra pair of gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm. A good pair of waterproof, insulated boots will keep your feet dry and warm. Although mittens are hard to work in, they keep your hands warmer than gloves. Only wear gloves when you need your fingers to be free to move around. Your boots should be insulated, waterproof and lace up to at least the mid-shin.

Another very important part of planning your winter camping experience is what you will eat to keep your body fueled and warm. When your body becomes cold it uses more calories as it tries to bring the body temperature up to normal. It is important to eat healthy by planning healthy meals to keep your body’s energy level up to fight the cold. A general guideline for a winter camping diet is half complex carbohydrates and simple sugars; 30 percent fats and 20 percent proteins.

It is best to avoid taking fresh foods with you such as eggs, vegetables or fruit. These can freeze very easily and are heavy to transport. It is best to pack backed goods, dried foods and freeze-dried ingredients. Fresh running water can be hard to come by in the winter so you need to be sure to bring enough water to last the entire trip. Assuming there is snow It can be melted over a fire or on a stove for drinking.  Your body uses a lot of energy to melt the snow when you eat it which can quickly lead to hypothermia. You should never, ever eat snow to satisfy your thirst. Snow should be boiled to insure its safety.

Also you need to consider what type of shelter you will use. A shelter should not only keep you out of the elements providing safety and warmth but also light weight and easy to set up. A roomy dome tent is a good choice because the tent’s shape prevents snow from accumulating on the roof. Be sure to have a tent large enough for the occupants and any camping gear. There isn’t much you will want to leave outside in the elements.  A good rule of thumb is to have a tent that will sleep next highest suggested occupancy. In other words if you are planning a 2 person camping trip you should have a 3-4 person tent. A tent that is equipped with a rainfly is ideal for preventing condensation in the tent, keeping you warm and all camping supplies dry.

It is a good idea to stomp around on the snow to trample down an area to place your tent. Be sure to have a tarp to place between the ground and the tent to prevent moisture from seeping through the bottom of the tent. This will also serve as added padding and insulation for the floor of the tent. Once the tent is set up, pack snow alongside the outside bottom of the tent walls to provide additional insulation. Avoid getting the inside of your tent wet by carefully brushing all of the snow off before entering your tent.

Besides a good shelter a good sleeping bag is as important for staying warm at night. Any good sleeping will be rated for different temperatures. Choose a tent that is rated for a lower temperature than what you actually plan to be sleeping in. For example, if you expect to be sleeping in 32 degree temperatures, have a sleeping bag that is good for 0 degree temperatures. The mummy style sleeping bags are ideal for lower temperatures. No matter which style of sleeping bag you chose be sure it is roomy but not too roomy. A sleeping bag that is too big and baggy will let in cold air so be sure you fit comfortably into the sleeping bag.  It is also a good idea to wear warm clothes even when sleeping for added warmth. An inflatable mattress or full length foam pad to lay down on takes some of the rough out of roughing it but is perfect for comfort and protection.

These are just some tips I have found to be helpful when camping in the winter. If it will be your first time winter camping be sure to plan well and prepare. Make a checklist and check each item as you are packing. This will help you to avoid forgetting important gear you may need. Plan well, prepare and have a good time winter camping, it can be fun.

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1. Know Your Abilities
   This one should seem obvious, but every year people pushing themselves past their physical limits leads to dozens, if not hundreds of rescues. Be honest with yourself about your abilities. There’s no shame in using your head and avoiding a potentially dangerous situation. Don’t be afraid of asking for help if you need it. Your ego may be damaged for a short while, but you will live to hike another day!

1. Yield Ahead
   Knowing when to yield can be just as important on the trail as it is in a car. You always want to yield to all animals, including farm animals. Yielding to livestock seems like a no brainer, but bikers also should be given the right of way. The same is also true of people above you. Of course there are exceptions, so when in doubt, simply think of the golden rule and do the right thing.

1. Control Your Kids/Pets
   Hiking with your children can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have as a parent. Having your kids understand why it’s important to respect our planet is an amazing feeling, and immersion in nature will only help this cause. It’s up to you to teach them proper trail behavior. No one is saying don’t have fun, but children can inadvertently cause damage to the trail and the ecosystem if they aren’t aware what they are doing. Make sure your kids have safety whistles and know how and when to use them, along with emergency light beacons, or flashlights that have this function. This could be a separate post on its own! When it comes to pets, it is important to know where you are going, and how your pet will behave. You have to remember that not everyone may like dogs as much as you do, so if you can’t guarantee 100% that your dog will listen, it may be best to leash it. Your pack probably has a plethora of places that would serve as a lock point if you don’t want to hold the leash the entire time. Also, treat your dogs waste the same as you would treat your own, and don’t forget a doggie bowl for water and food!

1. Be Nosy (If Applicable)
   If you see someone doing something that is dangerous to themselves or others, don’t be afraid to politely call them out on it. Most hikers will appreciate the advice, and will take any tips you have to offer. If you see someone who looks disoriented or sick on the trail, don’t be afraid to ask if they are okay. If someone is ill on the trail, their judgment may be off, and they could end up wandering off trail, or could be in need of medical attention. Just because you make the right decisions doesn’t mean that everyone else does!

1. Research
   Planning an overnight? You’d be crazy not to check the weather forecast. You also will want to know where you’re going to camp. If you’re thinking about camp near moving water, make sure you know if the area has a history of flash floods. In some parts of the country it’s not uncommon for waters to rise several feet in just a few hours.

By following these simple rules, you will be making the trail a better place for you and others to come!

Hans Ericsson is the head writer for the Auto Europe Travel Blog. He is often seen wandering around the British Isles, or behind the wheel of a fancy UK car rental.

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Convenient size and ability to carry

There’s been an increasing trend toward creating these giant survival knives that look like massive behemoths. While it’s easy to become enthralled by these huge works of art, they’re impractical for carry. The thing about survival situations is that they’re completely unexpected, so if you have a survival knife, but you don’t carry it at all times because it’s too unwieldy, it’s essentially worthless. Along these same lines, it should come with an easy-to-carry sheath. Remember, bigger is not always better.

Strong but comfortable handle

Like the movement toward huge knives, many new so-called survival knives feature a hollow handle that’s packed with useful survival gear. While these are definitely more convenient than having to carry those items in a separate pouch, it usually means the handle is made with less strength. There are typically glued portions that might dissolve with extreme use. Before buying a knife, holding it firmly in your hand will give you some inkling as to whether it will be comfortable because you might find yourself having to hold it for extended amounts of time during a real survival situation.

Top-notched steel blade with a full tang

What type of steel you choose to buy is solely up to you. There is the age-old debate of carbon steel vs. stainless steel (though modern steels are becoming increasingly more advanced that the nuisances are becoming less noticeable), so do your research and make a decision based on preferences. Nevertheless, a good rule of thumb is to get a fairly thick blade with high-quality steel. A full tang made from one piece of steel will also make it more durable.

Avoid serrated-edged and double-edged blades

While this area is also up for debate, many survival experts despise survival knives with serrations because they are difficult to sharpen and have very limited capabilities. A single-sided blade is much more versatile and dependable for most situations you’ll find yourself in outdoors.

Tim Martinez is a freelance writer who blogs about a variety of topics, including Spyderco knives and birdhouses.

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This is an excellent question, and answering it correctly may well save your life! While you hope nothing catastrophic ever happens, it is best to be ready just in case. With that in mind, the first item you should include in your survival equipment, is a space blanket. It is called a survival blanket as well, and it offers many excellent features when out alone in the cold. First, it reflects your body’s heat back to you, which is critical for keeping hypothermia at bay. On a long night in the woods, it can truly mean the difference between life and death.

However, it has another life saving benefit as well – it can be used to signal air rescue. The large reflective surface captures sunlight just like a mirror, and can send a signal which can be seen from several miles away. This can help emergency crews locate your position, and can greatly speed the time it takes to get rescued!

The second item you’ll need may come as a bit of a surprise. While you may picture survival gear allowing you to build shelter and hunt for food, in reality rescue is your primary goal. Most successful survival situations end in rescue within the first several days. In this amount of time you will not starve even though you will be hungry, and you can rely on natural shelter if conditions are temperate enough. With your space blanket for warmth, this second item will lead to a swift end to your ordeal. Whether you are going out hiking, camping, hunting or climbing it is an excellent idea to take a Personal Emergency Beacon with you. Cell phones are unreliable in the wild, and relying on one for emergency help can be a mistake.

A PLB is vastly different in its operation, and can be located anywhere in the world via satellite. Once you activate the device, a signal is transmitted on a 406 megahertz frequency. With 42 stations worldwide receiving your data, your exact position will be calculated quickly. If you coordinates indicate you are on the water, the Coast Guard will be alerted. If your location is land-based instead, then the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center will contact local authorities to dispatch a Search and Rescue team immediately. In most cases a team will be en-route to your location within one hour, meaning you won’t have long to wait for help to arrive!

So, if you are preparing to take a trip to a remote location, take along these two essential pieces of equipment. While it may seem like extra weight in the safety of your home, when problems occur on the trail you’ll be thankful you decided to pack them!

Alex O’Connor has written more articles on wilderness survival and survival equipment at SurvivalAids.net

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Don’t let its beauty fool you though, winter is also incredibly dangerous and presents a multitude of hazards that aren’t an issue during other seasons. Not surprisingly, the cold is one such danger and can lead to frostbite and hypothermia if the correct precautions aren’t taken. Your feet are especially susceptible to winter damage, so if you’re going to spending time enjoying the winter wonderland, read on for a few tips to protect your toes.

Winter Boots 101

What footwear you’ll be wearing certainly depends on what you’ll be doing outdoors. If you’re going to be cross-country skiing, look for boots that provide ankle support and perhaps a ski over-boot to provide extra insulation.

If you’re going to be snowshoeing or hiking, leave your typical backpacking boots at home—they’re not going to cut it.

• Insulated boots like Sorels or “Mickey Mouse” boots have a rubber or leather shell with an inner layer of wool felt. They come in different “levels” of warmth and can be used with snowshoes, crampons, and skis with special bindings.
• Plastic mountaineering boots are another option. These boots use a plastic shell and inner boots made of wool felt or closed cell foam insulation to keep your feet warm.
• Mukluks are one-piece moccasins that reach all the way to the knee and are often paired with felt liners and wool socks. They’re effective as high gaiters, keeping snow from getting into your boots, and are flexible and breathable. Mukluks work with showshoes, cross-country skis with special bindings, and hinged crampons. Unfortunately, they’re not waterproof so they’re best for dry winter settings.

Layers matter

Layering socks is one of the most effective ways to keep your feet warm. Layering provides much needed “dead space,” or air held in place by fibers that can be warmed through your body heat. This allows you to add or shed layers to increase or decrease your dead air space as the temperature changes and/or as your activity level changes. Your body is the heat source, the clothing layers only serve to trap the heat and slow down your heat loss to the cold environment.

Podiatrists and outdoor enthusiasts recommend wearing a thin synthetic sock next to the skin to wick moisture away. Layer 1-2 wool or thermal socks over the synthetic sock to absorb the moisture and keep your feet warm. Be sure that these outer socks are large enough to fit over the inner layers so they do not constrict circulation which would increase the chances of frostbite. Keeping your feet dry is essential to keeping them warm. Many mountaineers swear by foot powder with aluminum hydroxide. Others will apply antiperspirant to the feet the weeks prior to their trip. If nothing else, bring spare socks so that you can change if your feet get wet.

Practice proper foot care

Finally, show your feet some TLC. The cold, dry winter air can be tough on feet, leaving them chapped and cracked. Prevent this by moisturizing your feet daily. Look for rich creams and lotions that contain ingredients like Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, and rose or peppermint extract.

For more information on protecting and caring for your feet, check out Heel to Toe: A Guide to Feet.

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 Unconventional

If you are bored with international holidays, and you feel it is time to explore the country you call home, then holidaying in a caravan park is ideal. Australia has some of the most beautiful land in the world and too much is never seen by those who live there. However, caravanning allows you to travel where you like so this problem no longer exists.

Inexpensive

After you have paid for flights, a place to stay, and travel money, a holiday will leave you without a dollar to spare. At the same time, getting away from it all is required in order to remain sane. Taking your holiday in an Australian caravan park will save you a lot of money, and you will still feel like you have escaped everything.

The Outdoors

It is often the case that an international holiday will mean spending all day and evening doing nothing. When you take a holiday in a caravan, you can be ‘at one’ with nature if you choose. The activities you can do at a caravan park allow you to bond as a group more than any other holiday. More often than not, on package holidays, you can spend no time at all with the people that you care about the most because there are so many things happening but when you are staying in a caravan the outdoors is yours to explore.

Explore the Country

With a caravan, you are not limited to taking your holidays in one place because you can move it from one time to the next. What this means is that you can visit all different places and experience new things every time you want to take a trip. It is rare that a caravan park is fully book, which means that you do not need to book too far in advance. This means staying in a caravan is perfect for those who want to take a holiday at short notice.

Summary

Caravanning in Australia is one of the most exciting holidays you can have as both a child and an adult. Regardless of the group you go with there is always fun to be had, and this means if you get it right everybody you take will have a great time.

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