Camping can be a blast, especially if you have some tips to make your experience more comfortable. Saving space, staying warm, and keeping the mosquitoes away are all things that can improve a camping experience. We’ve collected some need-to-know tips and tricks for all of you outdoorsy types to help make your next adventure unforgettable.
Use Doritos to Start your Fire
Turns out, Doritos are not only delicious, but they can keep you warm as well. If you find yourself needing some kindling for your fire, chips such as Doritos, Fritos, or any other corn-based chip will do the trick. The oil in these chips catches fire quickly, so they can serve as an effective fire starter.
Throw some chips at the base of the fire because they catch easily, and then add some dry sticks and twigs on top. Place your logs on that and you’ve got yourself a worthy fire. No need to spend on expensive fire starter kits. Plus, your leftover kindling will serve as the perfect fireside snack.
Burn Sage to Keep Mosquitos Away
It’s hard to enjoy your camping trips with mosquitoes buzzing around. You don’t want to be itching while you’re trying to enjoy the great outdoors. Fortunately, sage acts as a natural repellent to these pesky bugs. Burn some sage leaves or a bundle of sage in your campfire to keep the mosquitoes away. We recommend keeping your bug spray with you as well (just to cover all your bases).
Another option is to bring some sage in the form of essential oils. The theory is that the scent from the plant is what keeps bugs away. Put some on your clothes or around your sleeping area. Plus, enjoy the natural perfume given off by this fragrant plant. Win, win!
Keep a Hot Bottle of Water at the Foot of Your Sleeping Bag
Staying warm in a tent can be tricky, especially depending on where you’re camping. When it’s time to leave the fireside and go to bed you might need this hack to keep warm. Fill up a water bottle with hot water and store it in the bottom of your sleeping bag. This will make your bed nice and toasty when it’s time to wind down.
Keeping your feet and your head warm are the easiest ways for your entire body to retain heat. So having a natural foot heater at the bottom of your sleep bag and a beanie on top of your head will help you stay warm throughout the night.
Use Foam Tiles in Your Tent for a Softer Floor
Depending on your campsite, your tent might be set up on some uncomfortable ground rather than the Tempur-Pedic mattress you’re used to at home. One way to make your sleeping environment a little more comfortable is to bring some foam tiles to lie on the ground in your tent.
These will add some much-needed cushion under your makeshift bed. You may remember these colorful foam tiles from elementary school. They easily detach and are easy to pack and travel with. You can order a pack on Amazon for less than $20. Campers find this to be a small change that dramatically impacts their comfort while camping.
