Coolers are a must when camping and having the right cooler is important. When we camp we take along multiple coolers, 2 large and a couple small ones for day trips. We use one of the large coolers for the perishable foods and the other for beverages, this way we are not opening the food cooler as often, keeping it colder for much longer. Packing correctly will also prolong your ice.

Tips to prolong your ice:

• Freeze meat and drinks that you will not use in the first day or two
• Chill your drinks before packing in the cooler
• Fill the cooler with food then add ice on top
• Open the cooler as little as possible
• Keep the lid closed tight
• Keep the cooler in the shade
• Do not drain all the water
• If space allows use some blocks of ice as these will last much longer than cubes

If you tire of running to the camp store for ice and have an electric site you may want to invest in this next pricey gadget. A portable ice maker may be just what you need. Some models make ice in just minutes and can make over 20 pounds a day.

For the gadget savvy camper electric coolers are available for around $100 or less. I have not used this type of cooler, but I am sure you can find many reviews elswhere.

23 Qt. Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer

What ever your choice just remember to chill out and have fun!

The heat is on in much of the country. So, here are some hot weather tips to keep your camping trip trouble free and enjoyable for the whole family.

Dress for the Heat
Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing. The light colors will reflect sunlight and heat. Hats are also recommended.

Stay Hydrated
Keep a good supply of water with you and drink at regular intervals. Even if you do not feel thirsty remember to drink. Avoid beverages that dehydrate such as caffeine and alcohol.

Avoid Salt Tablets
Do not take them unless your doctor recommends them.

Eat Smaller Meals
Try to eat smaller meals, but eat more often. Proteins increase metabolic heat production, so limit your intake.

Allow More Time for Activities
Allow time for breaks and try to plan your activities during the cooler parts of the day. Slow down and have fun, do not over do it.

Use Sunblock
Avoid the sun as much as possible and use sunblock.

Have Fun
Have a good time but at the first sign of a heat related illness you should stop immediately and cool down.

Everyone has seen them when they have gone camping. The decorations that almost all campers put up around their camp site. Whether it be party lights, flags, windsocks or welcome signs, they all give a little of your own personality into that space for the time that you have it.

Canopy or Party Lights

The most common are those lights hanging from the canopy of all style’s of campers. Small or large they all seem to have some type of lights. They come in all different shapes, sizes and colors. The selection is unlimited, from beer bottle’s to flip-flops the choice is never ending. It was one the first things I bought, after purchasing my camper.

Canopy light range in price from $9.99 & Up. There are other options to the party lights, you can use rope lights or make your own flower pot light. There is also a benefit to having these lights in camp, they will provide dim lighting at night, so you can find your way around the camp site and they don’t draw as many bugs as the lanterns. Follow the links below to see some examples of various lights.

Globe Patio Lights

Ramblin’ Road Patio Lights

Flags

Flags are another popular campsite decoration, many campers will display their favorite sports team or state flag. They also come in many different sizes and styles, with the United States flag being the most popular. Flag poles range in price from $5.99 & Up , it generally depend on the size and style of the pole. You can find flags at most retail locations and on Ebay from $4.99 & Up depending in size. There are options available for the flag pole, you can use the type that mount to your camper (most place them on the hull, or use the garden flag style, which stick in the ground. The other option make your own out of PVC pipe, click here for plans.

US Garden Flag Kit

Welcome Signs

Welcome signs with the last names and city/state that they reside, are great, it gives you the opportunity to meet people from your neck of the woods, other areas or even other countries. These are quite simple to come by, you can create your own, or purchase a custom made sign.

You may also like to try your hand at making a Flower Pot Light. It is a simple light made from plastic flower pots and decorating beads. Flower Pot Light