camping tips from a pro...well,not really

hey guys! i thought it would be fun to talk a bit about some of the things that tom and i have learned about camping that have helped make it a bit more enjoyable and since summer is coming to an end many of you might be taking those last minute ventures into the woods.

since tom and i mostly bike camp we have to be sure we not only pack lite but that everything we bring is necessary. first, we like to start with a list. this helps a ton and since our last adventure went oh so wrong, we were determined not to forget the necessaries, like, oh,... tent poles. i know they make camping list pads but for us it isn't bike camping specific but if you are a first timer, it is always helpful to know what to bring.

once, you have compiled a list it is helpful to add things that can make the trip fun. i bought tom this awesome solar paneled crank radio and we bring it everywhere. it is perfect for hanging out by the creek and listening to some tunes! plus no batteries are needed. we also LOVE dominoes but a stack of cards is always a great idea too.

 don't forget boooooooooze!!!!!! since tom and i have to pack light, a wine bottle is just too heavy but never fear! this company makes awesome wine in a small box. it's lighter aaaand has more wine then a wine bottle, booyah baby! plus on the back of the box, it tells you 10 reasons why they rock and they are pretty much right on target ;D

rope. thank goodness tom and i at least remembered rope on our last disastrous trip otherwise we would have been sleeping under the stars and would have gotten rained on the following morning. rope is really handy for just about anything and makes for a perfect clothes line. like i have said, we have to pack light so washing our bike clothes is a good idea and saves space in our bags for other things.

lastly, baby wipes. i like to stay as clean as possible while camping and i like our "house" to stay as clean inside as possible too so when walking around the camp site in flip flops your feet can get a little dirty so wiping your feet before you get in keeps all the dirt and pine needles out of the tent. plus it is less clean up when you are packing up and heading for home. coleman makes biodegradable wipes but we ran out of time and didn't get a chance to pick them up.

i hope we can squeeze one more trip in before winter sets in, typing this out really made me want to go asap. i would love to hear if you have any other tips too!
xo,
cb