How to Get Ready for a Camping Trip in Canada

Tips for getting ready for a camping trip in Canada

Canada is a wonderful country to visit and an excellent part of the world for camping. Getting ready to go camping is always a chore, but think about fun in the sun, clean water and fresh air, gorgeous starry nights, good kayaking, canoeing and boating, fishing and hunting, all with an open door of hospitality. You will wonder why you have not made a camping trip in Canada before this.

Tips for getting ready for camping trips in Canada:

Make certain that you have up an to date passport and driver's license, if you are planning to enter Canada from another country, as those will be required at border crossings for identification purposes. Be aware that your luggage may be searched at airports and border crossings. If you drive across the border, you may have your car searched. You will need current insurance coverage on your vehicle. Be sure that you are fully insured for Canada!

If you are driving, make certain that you have current road maps. If you are flying or coming to Canada, via other modes of transportation, be aware that you can rent vehicles at most airports or rental agencies, for a reasonable price. You may be able to rent kayaks, canoes or boats of different kinds, at various camp grounds. There will be road construction and detours. Check to see if the roads that you plan on taking are open for tourist travel or if there are any possible problems in those areas, for example wash outs from rain, floods or landslides, if you are heading into the mountains.

On many major highways in Canada, camping is restricted to designated campgrounds only. Some of the minor highways do have campgrounds, but not all of them. Research the area that you are planning to visit and see what facilities are available. Most camping sites will provide water, showers and washrooms. Some will have stores where you can purchase food, clothing or camping supplies.

Plan to purchase appropriate boating, fishing or hunting licenses that you require, ahead of time. Remember that life jackets are mandatory for each person on a boat. These may be rented at the same place where you rent a boat.

Obtain appropriate health coverage for the area you plan to visit. Note that all of the medications you require may not be available where you are going, so plan accordingly. Take along extras, just in case. Take extra medical supplies that you may require.

The cost of gasoline may be prohibitive, so it is wise to plan for extra cost in terms of fuel. Check for availability of gasoline, if you plan on traveling long distances or into remote areas. Make certain that you have a gas can with a tight fitting lid. There may be areas where gas is not available. Carry extra gas money in a safe place, just in case it is needed.

For pets you are planning to take with you, make certain that they are licensed and have proper identification tags. Be aware that you may or may not be able to purchase their particular brand of food. Check for any regulations with respect to taking pets into the country. Don't forget their dishes or leashes.

In terms of actual camping equipment, make certain that you have a sturdy, well made tent that will withstand inclement weather. Plan on taking warm sleeping bags and extra blankets, as the nights can be extremely cool. Temperatures can plunge below zero suddenly, although the daytime temperatures are still warm. Use disposable paper dishes and cutlery if possible, as you may not always to be able to wash your dishes. Make certain that pots and pans are lightweight and suitable for camping. Pack a small collapsible table and several lawn chairs.

Learn campfire rules and regulations for the area that you are heading into. Because of the possibility of forest fires, there may be restrictions on campfires.

If you are heading into wilderness country, be aware that the camping attire or clothing you and your family require, may not be immediately available. Appropriate daytime wear in the summer, may be t-shirts and shorts, with running shoes or sandals. In the evening, it is likely to be blue jeans and long sleeved shirts, sweaters, or jackets. Always carry extra socks for cold feet. Include rain gear and if you are planning on driving through the mountains, take a ski jacket; otherwise, pack at least a rain coat or an all weather jacket of some kind.

If you are going to be bicycling, make certain that you include helmets for each person. Mountain bikes are an excellent investment, but check out your bike before you go and make certain that you are able to transport it safely. A tool kit, backpack and water bottle are important when you are going mountain biking.

In terms of food, most major highways have restaurants with reasonable prices, at appropriate locations. If you are not traveling on major highways, be prepared to take the food that you need with you. Keep perishable items to a minimum. Remember that you may not be able to purchase the different kinds of food that you prefer, so plan accordingly and make certain that you have extras, just in case. You may, or may not be able to pick up ice at a service center, depending upon where you are traveling.

Water can be a problem when traveling, so make certain that you take water with you for your vehicle, as well as for drinking, bathing, washing clothing or bedding. If uncertain about the water in an area, boil the water to avoid any health problems. Bottled water is preferable to water from a river or a stream, unless the stream has running water.

A well stocked, first aid kit is a good idea. Include extras for wilderness excursions. Be aware that poison ivy and poison oak can be a problem when camping, so learn about them and how to treat them. Black flies and mosquitoes can be a nuisance, so pack appropriate repellant. Taking along antihistamines is a good idea for bee stings.

Canadian money will include the looney and the tooney. You might want to learn about the exchange rate before you travel into Canada. ATM cards can be used in Canada in most places, but not all. Carrying travellers checks is a good idea.

Wild life can be a problem, particularly moose or deer on the highways. Bears can do a lot of damage at camp sites, so make certain that you are able to put all food in appropriate containers with lids. 

Have your vehicle serviced just before you leave. You may need extra items like a tire pump, replacement hoses, oil or windshield washer fluid. Don't forget your spare tire. Make certain your air pressure is correct in it, as well as in your other tires, especially on a long trip, as your ride will be much smoother.

Plan ahead of time for extras in terms of entertainment, like dvds and a radio. Include books and notepaper. Remember to pack extra batteries. You might also include sports equipment.

Plan your time carefully, so that you are not in a rush. That way your camping trip will be more enjoyable for everyone.

For swimming, the smaller lakes are warmer, but find supervised areas, particularly if you are traveling with children. The Great Lakes can be cold, so watch out for hypothermia. Pack extra towels, just in case and don't forget your swim suits. Most of the parks will have life guards, but not all of them.

Cell phones may or may not work, depending on the location that you are in.

Pack at least one good flashlight. Solar lights are excellent, because they can be re-charged by the sun. If you carry matches, make certain that they are in a waterproof container.

Make sure that you include your camera and camera equipment so that you can capture a few good 

memories!

Remember to take your sunscreen, sun glasses and a hat.

You may have other tips to add to this list.

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, your camping trip in Canada should be just about perfect, as you are ready.