Night Time Safety Essentials For Camping

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Camping in the great outdoors is one of many people’s favorite pastimes. After all, being among nature does incredible things for your health, particularly your mental wellbeing. It makes you happier, less stressed, and more focused. 

But before you book your camping trip away, it’s crucial to think about safety. Particularly at night, when it tends to be more challenging to navigate your way around a new place. 

For some insight, below is some advice and equipment that'll ensure you have a safe night while camping.

Bug Repellant 

If the area you’re visiting is prone to pesky mosquitoes, be wary at night when these pests are most active. 

As the sun goes down, the mosquitoes come out. To prevent you and your travel companions from being eaten alive, invest in a few cans of Bug Bam. This bug repellant keeps annoying mosquitoes from ruining your trip.

Also, talk to locals about what works best in that area. Some mosquitoes are more persistent than others. 

Night Light

A headlamp, flashlight or both, are always handy when the sky turns to black. Whether you need to tend to a family member or go to the toilet, light is a much-needed tool for all campers. If you urgently need to go somewhere at night, and the campground is dark, take a flashlight and someone with you.

We also like to carry solar lights with us camping. These deck lights are sturdy and cast just enough light around your campsite.

If you don't have a fire going but want to sit outside, we like these solar lanterns. They store flat, charge quickly and look really cool.

No Roaming

If it’s a busy campground, with well-lit facilities, roaming within the grounds at night may be safe. But if it’s not, refrain from walking at night, especially alone. Most campgrounds are pretty safe but you can learn a lot by reading online reviews before booking your trip.

Put The Fire Out

Making a fire, for most, is a desirable addition to a camping trip. It’s great to cozy up with your family and friends, roast some marshmallows and tell stories, all while keeping warm in the process.

And while it may be tempting to keep the fire running throughout the night while you’re asleep, it’s safer to put it out. 

As a rule, if no one is there to watch and monitor the fire, it needs to be put out. Otherwise, all it takes is a flicker of burning wood to catch onto a nearby shrub or tree, which could, if the weather is hot, cause a forest fire. Not to mention, this scenario will put you and your family in great danger.

Also, be aware of local fire regulations and bans before you start a campfire. If you are unsure, ask the camp host or ranger.

Shelter

If the weather is hot, and you love the outdoors, it may be oh so tempting to experiment sleeping outside at night - but don’t do it! Weather can change quickly, and creepy crawlies will have optimum access to your skin. Plus, you never know if there could be dangerous creatures nearby, especially if you're unfamiliar with an area. 

From an RV to a secure tent, choose to invest in a shelter that will keep you safe, warm, and protected at night.

Warm Clothes

Lastly, regardless of the weather during the day, or the estimated temperatures of a particular place before you arrive, always take additional layers suitable for cold weather. Adding more coverage can prevent bug bites and keep you warm should the temperature drop.