Camping safety tips
Basic rules for a safe and enjoyable time outdoors.
- Check the weather forecast and local regulations before you go.
- Tell someone where you're heading and when you plan to return.
- Bring a paper map and compass - just in case.
- Download offline maps and save GPS coordinates before losing signal.
- Make sure your vehicle can handle the route and any restrictions.
- Have a backup plan: alternate routes and extra overnight stop.
- Bring a satellite communicator or locator for remote areas.
- Save local emergency numbers - 911 doesn't always work everywhere.
- Pack a solid first-aid kit and learn how to use it.
- Bring emergency shelter, water, and food - better safe than sorry.
- Review basic first aid and CPR before your trip.
- Keep emergency contacts and numbers handy - not just in your phone.
- Check fire or barbecue restrictions before your trip.
- Use designated fire pits or fire bowls where possible.
- Keep fires small and under control - never leave unattended.
- Always have water or soil ready to extinguish the fire quickly.
- Before leaving, stir the ashes - they should feel cold to the touch.
- In dry conditions, prefer a camping stove over an open fire.
- Bring more water than you think - about 4L per person per day.
- Always treat natural water - boil, filter, or use purification tablets.
- Know the signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion.
- For longer trips, check if nearby water sources are clean.
- Carry water containers and a backup purification method.
- Know if water will be available in the area this season.
- Monitor the weather and be prepared for sudden changes.
- Watch for signs of dangerous weather - lightning, floods, strong winds.
- Protect yourself from the sun: wear sunscreen, a hat, and breathable clothes.
- Learn signs and responses for hypothermia and heat stroke.
- Be aware of seasonal hazards - avalanches, landslides, floods.
- Bring gear suitable for expected temperatures.
- Bring animal deterrents like noise alarms or bear spray.
- Store food in animal-proof containers or hang it high if needed.
- Keep your campsite clean - food smells attract wildlife.
- Make some noise on the trail - but not too much! - to avoid sudden encounters.
- Learn how to react when you meet different animal species.
- Never feed wild animals - it harms them and you.
- Check what animals live in the area and how they behave seasonally.
- Bring a flashlight or lantern - just in case.
- Choose level ground, away from hazards like dead trees or landslide zones.
- If possible, set up camp before dark.
- Secure loose items that wind might blow away.
- Keep cooking and sleeping areas separate.
- Store toiletries and scented items with food to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Ensure good lighting for nighttime activities.
- Always carry a phone to reach help quickly.
- If injuries occur: Stay calm (and put safety first), then ask for help.
- In bad weather: Seek shelter immediately and avoid ridges or trees during storms.
- If encountering wild animals: Follow species-specific safety guidelines and don't run unnecessarily.
- In case of fire: Evacuate immediately, call 112 (or local emergency number), and follow evacuation routes.
- Navigation: map, compass, GPS.
- Communication: phone, satellite communicator.
- Fire: waterproof matches, lighter, fire starter.
- First Aid: first aid kit, basic meds.
- Emergency: whistle, signal mirror, emergency shelter.
- Tools: multitool, duct tape, paracord.
