Disposal of Human Waste

It's inevitable, both humans and animals pee and poop. Although wild animals have it made without any rules, us humans have strict rules when it comes to proper disposal of waste. I have camped in several campgrounds in which were regulated and some that were not, and I have to tell you, how disgusting it is to witness human waste which was not properly handled sitting out in the open for all to see, smell and step in. I have to tell you it is pretty gross, and not to mention unsanitary. There is such a thing as biodegradable toilet paper, which decomposes faster then regular toilet paper and is much safer for the environment. If you have ever camped and noticed all the toilet paper dropping all over camp, this is regular toilet paper left behind, probably when someone went potty behind a tree, and never picked up after themselves. Ok, here is the scoop. If you camp ,you have a couple of options of how you will rid yourself of waste. You can either bring your own latrine, or you can make your own. If you decide to use mother nature as your dumping ground, make sure you hike out about 200ft from your area and away from water. It is also best to find an area abundant with sunlight for faster decomposition. Make sure you dig a hole at least 6-8 inches deep if you are in higher elevations, and 4-6 inches for lower elevations. If you urinate and use toilet paper, pick up the bunches and place in a paper bag and burn if possible. Most campsites have bathroom facilities, but some don't. Please be responsible and pick up after yourself. If you don't, you are posing a health risk to the area and everyone who is around it. Here are some additional items you may find useful. Make sure you bring a camp shovel so you can properly did your hole. Bring small paper bags for toilet paper waste. Bring baby wipes for those unexpected moments. Bring hand sanitizer that is anti-bacterial. Remember,going to the bathroom outdoors, is so much harder than sitting on the toilet at home.

Camping with pets

True story, I was on a camping trip with my brother in Oregon a few years back, and there was a favorite ridge he liked to camp at and to my amazement there was an older gentleman camping with his bird and his dog. No kidding he had his bird there in a cage over looking Mount Hood. The point of my story is, no matter what pet you have, chances are you probably want them with you. However, not all pet's suitable for camping. This may be just because they have never been camping, or even outside for an extended period of time. In my experience, I have only seen dogs camp, but how unusual to see a bird. Anyhow, check out this information on camping with pet's and you be the judge.

One of the most important things you must do before heading out, is to find out if where you are going ,will allow pets. Find out what rules and leash laws exist. The worst thing to happen is to get all the way there, and find out you can't stay. That is a result of poor planning and no one to blame but you. I have mentioned in my checklist for pet's what items to bring, but I want to go a little deeper with some things to consider. If your pet is used to sleeping in a kennel it might be a good idea to bring it along so that way they feel more comfortable since they are in an unfamiliar territory. Animals get cold and hot just like people do, so make sure you treat your animal as you would be treated and don't leave them out in the cold or in the heat. It would be a good idea that you make a shaded area using tarp just for them. When it comes time for bed, my dogs sleep in my tent. I give them an area with blankets and pillows so they can curl up as well. I'm not saying cuddle with your animals, but treat them kindly. Also, I have seen tents specially made for animals. During the day make sure you have water available as well as food. It's not a good idea to leave a container of food lying on the ground, as ants need to eat too. Pick it up and seal it, and give later when their interested. Never leave your animals unattended at the camp site, and never leave them alone in the tent. Keep them confined the best way possible, to not to wander into other campsites. One of the most important things, is to pick up your animals waste immediately after seeing it. If you don't, you will have flies, and someone is bound to step in it and not to mention it STINKS! Just be courteous, as this also affects the next campers that move into that area. The next thing I want to touch on is, to make sure your animals is vaccinated and that they are healthy to travel. Good idea to have your animal checked out by a vet. And while you're there, look into getting some tick and flea repellent. The woods especially are prone to contain ticks, which carry deadly diseases. If your pet gets them, chances are you're coming home with them. And yes they also suck on humans YUCK! Don't forget to bring extra towels in case you need to dry them off ,and don't forget their favorite toys or any medications they may be taking. lastly, really be sure that the pet you're about to take, is truly one that will enjoy themselves and that it's not just your wish. You can always make arrangements for someone to watch your animals, even if its a neighbor. The worst thing is to bring a pet camping, and not come home with it. What a horrible thing to happen.

Camping With Kids

Camping with kids can be a great experience for them and for yourself, or it can take a turn for the worse. In this day and age kids prefer hand held video games or playing games on the computer. How can you convince a kid that camping can be fun? Since camping may be new to the family you will have to come up with creative ideas together. I suggest talking to your kids first to see what their idea of camping means to them. Heck have a mock camping trip in the back yard who knows you may have a lot of fun. If you have succeeded and have come up with a plan, here are some great things you and your kids can share when you are actually outdoors camping:
Take a nature hike. You will be amazed on what you will see and learn. Take pictures to share later.
Build a fort or maybe a tee pee
Play board games
Rent a boat or canoe
Bring arts and crafts
Bring a portable DVD player (Don't forget the movies)
Crayons and books, markers, and paint
Create a campfire story

Here are some important safety tips that parents should talk with their kids about before Camping:
Never play with fire. That means no running around an open fire, adding to it, or trying to put it out, or playing with matches
Respect wildlife. Never destroy plants or animals. Leave the area just as you arrived.
Be courteous to other campers
Learn more about nature and camping ahead of time

Safe proofing your home

I have provided you with some helpful tips with what to bring camping and a great camping checklist, but most importantly, is a checklist on how to safe proof your home before any trip. Here are some things to remember:

Tell a trusted neighbor or a family member where you are going and when you will be returning
Provide a cell phone number
Have someone pick up your newspaper and mail
Leave a spare key with trusted neighbor or friend
Lock all doors and windows
Make sure your electronics such as curling iron, coffee pot, etc are turned off or even unplugged
Clean up dishes
Take out trash
Set the alarm
Leave a light on outside
If you have an automatic garage door ,unplug the operating unit in case your code has been hacked into they cannot open the door