Northern Dancer
Survivalist
Camping is meant to be fun, right?
I remember a time when is wasn't fun - not at all. But I persevered until I could boast that I was a pro. When I say pro I'm not suggesting perfection or having all the skills that I need -there is something new to learn everyday. BUT, I have learned a lot.
Here are some of the things that I did as an AMATEUR
I DIDN'T DO ANY RESEARCH INTO ANYTHING
I didn't think about equipment that I might need, where I was going, what I might expect or even consider the weather. I loaded what I had into the car an off I went. Now that is real dumb adventure folks.
I DIDN'T TRY ANY OF THE EQUIPMENT BEFORE LEAVING HOME
It never occurred to me that my tent may leak, there were not enough guy lines; and what was that funny thing that looks a bit like an umbrella? What was that for? Oh...ya...the stove - it was brand new and damaged.
I RELIED ON A CAMPFIRE
How did I know that there was a fire ban? No one told me that it rained for three days before I got to the camp site. What do you mean I can't bring wood into the park?
CHEAP GOODS INSTEAD OF QUALITY
If it came from "Ally's" it had to be good stuff right? Wrong! You get what you pay for in the camping industry. Notice how the camp supply people stay away from the everyday stores? That's because they are everyday.
BUYING A LOT OF STUFF
We all do - buy stuff. That's what wanna be camping pros do - buy lots of stuff - most of which is cheap and useless. And then there is all that food - as if the world might come to an end when we are away. Really, come on now - do you actually have that kind of breakfast at home?
A CHEAP SLEEPING BAG IS ALWAYS A GOOD BUY
Did you look at the size? How wide is it and how long is it. Nothing like being six five and getting into a sleeping bag designed for a five six. How warm is it? Whaaaaaat? You thought it was going to be 22C [72F] and it's really what? Lumpy you say? I didn't know that it doesn't come with a comfort pad.
LIGHTING
I had one of those real cheap flash lights that I got on sale. Yep...it faded and guess what? It hadn't occurred to me to bring batteries. Do not underestimate the importance of lighting.
FOOD AND GARBAGE ACCESSIBILITY
I didn't see any animals around so putting away the peanut butter wasn't really all that important anyway - I mean, we just have to take it out the pack again in the morning.
ARRIVING LATE [AT NIGHT]
Don't get me started.
I look back on those days of yesteryear and I'm sooooooo glad they are behind me.
Luv to hear about your experiences. Can you add to the list?