Camping in North America 

Locating a campground

The popularity of camping in North America has never been higher, and locating a memorable campsite there has never been simpler. Think again if you thought camping was dull.

To get you started, have a look at these campsites below.

Ludington State Park – Mitchigan 

http://www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?type=SPRK&id=468 

Westport Camping Grounds – Massachusetts 

http://www.westportcampinggrounds.com/ 

Normandy Farms Campground 

http://www.normandyfarms.com/ 

Top 10 Camping System Checklist 

It has long been said that if you don’t plan, you plan to fail, and this saying is especially true when it comes to organising your camping equipment.

Thanks to mountaineers.org, we have put together a list of the top 10 essentials. I’m sure you could add a few of your own.

  1. Navigation: Map, altimeter, compass, [GPS device], [PLB or satellite communicators], [extra batteries or battery pack] 
  1. Headlamp: Plus extra batteries 
  1. Sun protection: Sunglasses, sun-protective clothes, and sunscreen 
  1. First aid: Including foot care and insect repellent (if required) 
  1. Knife: Plus repair kit 
  1. Fire: Matches, lighter and tinder, or stove as appropriate 
  1. Shelter: Carried at all times (as a light emergency) 
  1. Extra food: Beyond minimum expectation 
  1. Extra water: Beyond minimum expectation, or the means to purify 
  1. Extra clothes: Beyond minimum expectation 
  2. A St Christopher necklace (optional) for extra protection when you travel 🙂

  

Travelling with your Dog 

Dogs can be wonderful camping trip companions. You can arrange their travel health using the checklist below.

Prior to departure:

  1. Is your dog microchipped?
  1. Does your pet have valid pet insurance? 
  1. Is the dog vaccinated? 
  1. Has your dog visited the vet for travel advice?
  1. Is your contact number for a veterinary practice, in case of an emergency correct?
  1. Apply flea and tick prevention treatments 
  1. Replace broken leads and collars, if necessary 
  1. Place the dog’s name, address and your mobile number on a visible part of the collar
  1. Include bandages, sticking tape, adhesive bandages, scissors, tweezers, a big syringe for oral treatments, a blanket, a towel, gloves, cotton wool, and antiseptic in your first aid box. Gauze can be used to cover wounds or serve as a muzzle.
  1. Do not forget your dog’s regular food 
  1. Last, but not least doggie treats!

The journey: 

Dogs, like people, require regular travel breaks and are susceptible to travel sickness. Make sure to stop at certain locations along the way.

  1. Leave a window open at least six inches, alternatively you can install a pet vent 
  1. Maintain the inside temperature of your car at (18oC – 21oC)
  1. Keep supplies for cleaning, such as paper towels and wipes, in case the dog becomes ill

On-site: 

  1. Keep the dog secured on a lead at all times to prevent accidents. 
  1. Keep or get access to fresh, clean or bottled water. 
  1. Keep a collapsible water bowl for any adventures. 
  1. Keep a canopy to provide shade on hot days. 
  1. Keep extra blankets. 
  1. Keep a dog coat if it is cold. 
  1. Keep tarpaulin for protection against the elements. 

  

The journey: 

Dogs, like people, require regular travel breaks and are susceptible to travel sickness. Make sure to stop at certain locations along the way.

  1. Leave a window open at least six inches, alternatively you can install a pet vent 
  2. Maintain the inside temperature of your car at (18oC – 21oC)
  3. Keep supplies for cleaning, such as paper towels and wipes, in case the dog becomes ill

On-site: 

  1. Keep the dog secured on a lead at all times to prevent accidents. 
  2. Keep or get access to fresh, clean or bottled water. 
  3. Keep a collapsible water bowl for any adventures. 
  4. Keep a canopy to provide shade on hot days. 
  5. Keep extra blankets. 
  6. Keep a dog coat if it is cold. 
  7. Keep tarpaulin for protection against the elements. 

If you plan ahead, you are sure to enjoy your trip and share your memories for years to come!