HOME       ABOUT US       CONTACT      THE VAULT       FAQ      SITE MAP      SEARCH

Happygrrls' How-To:

---

Be an outdoors savvy woman…

Ah, the tranquility, the serenity, the great outdoors. Don't let a few mosquitoes stop you from enjoying Mother Nature. Our handy guide will show you how you too can be at one with the Earth.

Mosquitoes, creepy crawlers, pit bathrooms – ick! Well, there actually might be something you can look forward to about camping outdoors! Whether you're going with your honey or taking a girls weekend, you can be prepared and it's all about the preparation baby! Plus, you'll probably surprise your group by showing you are prepared. In fact, I'm going to give you the 4-1-1 based on my recent travels so that you can have a great, bug-free time.

Rule Number One: Check The Weather.
It sounds simple, but you'd be surprised how many people forget to do this. If it's going to be a rainy weekend there's really no point in trying to make do with mud pit, unless that's your kinda thing.

Rule Number Two: Get the Necessary Supplies.
I mean it, only the necessariest (I know it's not a word)! You don't need to pack your curling iron, pounds of makeup or those high heels you love. This is the rugged land we need to make peace with. You don't see men packing up nice dress shoes do you? I've compiled a list of necessary items you'll need, so quick grab a pen…or printer:

• MAP of where you will be camping/hiking
• TENT (or if you're fortunate enough to travel luxury RV-style, know how to hitch it to the vehicle properly)
• SLEEPING BAG (consider investing in an air mattress if you're sleeping in a tent) and PILLOW
• CLOTHES (don't over pack, but bring heavier clothes for nighttime when it cools down)
• SWIMSUIT/TOWELS
• SHOES (Dr. Martens or Timberlands if you're doing some hiking, plus tennis shoes and flip flops). Funny that rappers sing about those brands in songs…see, everybody goes camping!
• SPORTS BRAS (this is not included in clothes because it deserves its own category. You'll need these if you're hiking or running!)
• HYGIENES (toothbrush/paste, deodorant, hairbrush, hair ties, shampoo/conditioner, soap, face wash or those foaming cloths do wonders. If you must bring makeup, remember only the necessities! Nobody looks photo-flawless on a camping trip, nobody!)
• SUNSCREEN/LIP BALM
• FOOD & DRINKS (divvy this up among the group; make sure you have plenty of fresh water… and booze if you so choose)
• UTENSILS, PLATES, BOWLS, CUPS, THERMOS, COOLER, STOVE, MATCHES, CHARCOAL, CAN OPENER, TOILET PAPER, PAPER TOWEL, WASH CLOTHS, KNIFE
• CANDLES, LANTERNS and CORRECT LANTERN FUEL
• FIREWOOD/KINDLING/LIGHTER FLUID (or you can be adventurous and chop your own! Be sure you learn how to build one before your trip!)
• BUG REPELLANT (Even if you don't see them, they are there. Spray your ankles so ticks don't jump onto you while walking through tall grass)
• SANITARY WIPES (thank me later)
• GARBAGE BAGS
• FLASHLIGHT (Don't forget the batteries!)
• MEDICATIONS and FIRST AID KIT (See checklist website below)
• FM RADIO/ CD PLAYER/MP3
• BOOKS/MAGAZINES
• CAMERA! Camping is often filled with memorable experiences, which you may like to preserve and share with family and friends later

And I'll make this one the most important tidbit you should know: DO NOT WEAR SCENTED PRODUCTS! They tend to attract flying insects. That includes scented deodorant! Obviously this is not a comprehensive list for every modern urban woman who wants to go camping, but it's a helluva good start (and pretty complete if you ask me).

I've also recommended a few websites for you to print out and familiarize yourself with if you've never been camping and want to know how to do it like a pro.

If you really want a simple and easy checklist print this out:
About.com's Camping Checklist

For a detailed instruction on how to build a campfire:
How To Build A Campfire In 6 Easy Steps

For camping cooking recipes and other fun tips:
Camping Cooking Tips

Rule Number 3: Have a Few Games Planned.
Have these handy so that you can play them when you get bored or have some down time. Think “10 fingers“ or “truth or dare“ or “would you rather…?“ to get to know some of your camp mates a little better! Embarrassing stories always makes for a good time. Board games are also a good option in case the weather gets bad. Hey, my girls and I would be all set with hot dogs, booze and music! The possibilities are endless…

Rule Number 4: Have Fun!
I've given you the essentials of what you need to bring with you to be ready for a modern camping trip!

Fighting off the bugs is half the battle, so enjoy your outdoor experience and let me hear about your trip! ¤ Erica