The adventure is over and you're ready to collapse into your bed. Wait a
minute! You still have to unload the car and unpack. If you take care of camping
equipment, it will last a long time. A little extra time invested at the end of
a camping trip can save hours of preparation before your next excursion.
Drying Out
Dishes will rust and fabric will mildew if it is not completely dry before
being stored. If your tent and tarp are damp, lay them flat on the driveway or
over a trampoline until they dry.
Repair tears in fabric and holes in air mattresses before storing them.
Cookware should be washed with dish soap and hand dried.
Dishtowels and potholders can be cleaned in the washing machine, but if they
are caked with soot, they should be discarded and replaced.
Sleeping bags and blankets may fit in your washer and dryer. If they don't,
commercial washers and dryers are available at most laundromats.
Restocking
Make a list of consumable items that are necessary for camping so that you
can take inventory and restock before your next trip. Items such as paper goods,
trash bags, matches, soap, insect repellent, and first-aid kit supplies should
be on your list.
Storage
Plastic storage bins with lids fit easily into the trunk or SUV, and they can
also stack neatly out of the way in the attic or garage. On the outside of each
bin, tape a list of what is stored inside. If any items are missing, pencil a
note next to the item's name. You won't forget anything next time you go
camping, and you'll know which boxes to take with you. For instance, if you were
staying in a cabin during a winter trip, you would not need the storage box that
holds the tent, tarp, tent stakes, and rope.
Lists for Kids
Keep kids occupied with constructive activity and teach them responsibility
by creating lists of items for them to pack. These lists could be for clothing,
toiletries, games and toys, or a nature-hike backpack. Be sure to check their
work before leaving the house.
A little preparation and planned activities can make camping with kids an
enjoyable experience, even for parents. A weekend with the family at a state
park campground is affordable, but the memories you'll make will be
priceless.