For those thinking about camping on their next vacation, a little bit of research and some basic planning can prepare the campers for seasonal weather changes that might occur. Enjoying the great outdoors is the upside of a camping holiday. But too many times, a lack of preparation subjects campers to changing weather conditions.



It would be impossible to prepare for every weather occurrence, but experienced travelers and outdoor enthusiasts are well prepared most of the time. It is fine to challenge family members and group members with outdoor living. Those challenges are part of the excitement of camping vacations. However, being unprepared for rain, extreme changes of summer temperature, winter temperature and strong winds can take all of the fun out of being challenged by nature.

Of course, it helps to get a forecast for temperature and precipitation for the area where the group will be camping. This eliminates some of the potential problems, helping with decisions about what clothing to bring along and how heavy tents and sleeping bags should be. But weather conditions can change quickly in the wilderness, especially in the mountains or near the sea. Temperatures drop significantly from daytime to night in the desert and in the mountains.

Some campers, especially those using recreational vehicles and camper/trailers, like to have a good thermometer, as well as a barometer and other items, to help keep track of the changes in weather. These folks may have one advantage over tent campers during summer camping. Extreme temperatures, ranging from 40 degrees to 100 degrees, will affect the "primitive" campsites much more than those who can get indoors and might even have air conditioning.

When considering climate conditions at the vacation destination, always keep in mind the planned activities. Heat cannot only be a challenge for hikers and walkers, but also can be a threat to health. Wise campers and those on walking tours (even in urban areas) take along plenty of water and dress in layers so they can adjust to temperature changes.

While it may be tempting to take off a shirt while outdoors, this can be a problem if there is a chance of coming in contact with such plants as poison ivy or poison oak. Exposing too much skin to the sun can lead to some miserable time spent nursing sunburn. Tip: Remember that bright sun and cloudless skies can be a problem at most altitudes. Even if the mountain air feels cool, the sun can be burning the skin.

Only a few hardy and experienced souls try . For those who are well prepared the challenges are quite rewarding. But proper clothing and sleeping bags are critical for this type of outdoor activity. Talk with the professionals at your favorite outdoor/camping supply store so that you get such items as socks made of the correct material. This small detail can mean the difference between cold, wet feet for a few minutes or discomfort and even skin damage. A little bit of planning for the weather/climate conditions at the destination will help make the holiday trip go more smoothly.