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02 03How To Keep Cats off Outdoor Furniture Cushion
What are the best ways to keep cats off outdoor furniture? Natural repellents, such as smells cats hate, keep uninvited felines off your chairs and loungers.
Manufactured cat repellents, ultrasonic fences, aluminum foil, mothballs, and double-stick tape all provide alternative ways to keep cats off cushions.
You can also provide alternative hang-outs for cats, store your furniture, or train the offending cat to avoid the chairs.
I've thoroughly researched the smells, sounds, and tactile sensations that repulse cats. I've distilled my findings to keep sharp cat paws from snagging your patio cushions.
This article provides everything you need to keep cats off your outdoor furniture. I offer organic and synthetic options, as well as behavioral modifications sure to keep your kitty from ruining your cushions and chair legs.
Natural Cat Repellants on Cushion
Cats have powerful senses of smell. Use their noses against them. Spraying outdoor furniture and the surrounding areas with certain scents repels kitties.
Sprays
A small spray of a repulsive scent goes a long way. Cats detest the smells of peppermint, vinegar, lavender, and cinnamon. Felines actively avoid these smells, so spraying them on your chairs and lounges keeps kitties away.
Fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar, water, and liquid hand soap. Adding a little lavender or cinnamon makes the spray more palatable to your nose.
Avoid essential oils, however. Essential oils are hazardous to kitties.
Citrus Rinds
Cats hate the smell of citrus. So putting lemon, orange, or lime peels around your furniture helps repel cats and fills the space with citrus fruit's pleasant and clean aroma.
Make sure to replace the peels regularly. The rinds rot, and the smell quickly goes from clean and fresh to unpleasant.
Cat-Repellent Potpourri
Mixing up a simple, cat-repellent potpourri keeps kitties away without hurting them. The smell ensures their little paws stay off your furniture cushions.
The potpourri also adds a pleasant smell to the sitting area. Mix the peels of lemon, tangerine, lime, and oranges with citrus sprays.
Lemon juice, water, and citronella oil help draw out the smells in dried peels.
Plants
Plants provide an organic and aesthetically pleasing way to keep unwanted kitties away. Even better, the plants often attract pollinators, like hummingbirds and butterflies. You can help your garden grow while maintaining your patio furniture.
The following plants all repel cats:
LavenderPennyroyal
Lemon thyme
Geraniums
Lemongrass
Rue citronella
This keeps your cat away from your furniture to avoid what it perceives as a potential threat. Most synthetic cat repellents last for around 24 hours. They require daily application until your cat is conditioned to avoid the scent.
Some of the best cat-repellent sprays on the market are:
Ultrasonic Fences
Ultrasonic fences work best for those hoping to keep cats and other uninvited visitors out of their yards.
Motion triggers these devices to create a high-pitch tone. When a cat crosses the ultrasonic perimeter, the noise irritates them and sends them running.
The ultrasonic barrier requires virtually no upkeep. Unlike sprays that need to be reapplied or plants that need to be cared for, you only need to set up the fence and then forget it.
Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil provides a quick, easy alternative using something most of us have in the house. Cats don't like the sound or feel of aluminum foil.
Putting a thin layer on your furniture will repel cats. This is a particularly good option during colder months when you won't use furniture too frequently. Otherwise, you'll need to remove the foil every time you sit and replace it after you go inside.
Mothballs
Put your leftover mothballs to good use. Zip them inside the furniture cushions. Cats don't like the smell, and it escapes through the material.
You'll also have to smell the mothballs, so keep that in mind before opting for this treatment. Also, never leave the mothballs where the cat can ingest them.
Stick to PDB mothballs, as they are less toxic. Naphthalene mothballs are highly toxic. Curious animals besides the neighborhood stray may want to chow down on your mothballs.Dogs, in particular, like to eat them, so be careful using them as a deterrent.
Double-Sided Tape
Cats hate the feeling of sticky things against their paws. So putting a layer of double-sided tape around the base of your furniture or along the legs can help deter cats from climbing onto your chairs and lounges.
Worried about a particularly jumpy cat completely bypassing the floor or legs? You can put tape on one side of a chair's cushion and flip it over when you want to sit on it.
Don't use any tape stronger than double-stick tape. The adhesive needs to be mild. Strong glues can hurt a cat's paws.You don't want to hurt the cat simply to cause enough irritation to keep them off your chairs and loungers.
Provide an Alternative
Sometimes the best way to keep cats off furniture is to offer a better option. This option may not work for uninvited strays. However, personal pets or welcome guests may just want their own place to hang out.
Consider providing a cat-specific cushion. Offering your cat their own space may keep your feline friends from hopping on your patio furniture.
Adding a cat tree gives your furry buds somewhere to climb and lounge. Also, offering cats something more appealing than the patio furniture helps protect your cushions.
Store Your Cushions Away
Let's be honest; there are plenty of reasons beyond cats to store outdoor furniture inside when you're not using it.Rain, snow, and cold can all have deleterious impacts on furniture cushions. Wet upholstery develops mold and mildew.
Storing your chairs and lounges in a garage, shed, or other indoor location prevents unwanted animal interference and weather damage.
Train Your Cat
If the main cat attacking your furniture is your fuzzy friend, train them to stay off the chairs and lounges. This method only works for cat owners with plenty of time.
Whenever you see your kitty approaching the furniture, spray them with water. Cats generally hate getting wet and will be put off by the moisture. This is a form of conditioning.
If you spray your cat every time they approach the furniture, they'll associate jumping on the cushions with getting wet and take the necessary measures to avoid getting spritzed.
This requires time and consistency. The negative reinforcement needs to be consistent for a few days so that kitties believe that they'll get sprayed every time they go for the furniture.
Conclusion
Cats can cause extensive damage to outdoor furniture. The tips and advice in this article provide natural, synthetic, and behavioral options for keeping unwelcomed kitties away from cushions.
Many basic household items use a cat's own sensory aversions to repel them from the furniture. You have all you need to keep kitties on the floor if you have citrus rinds, mothballs, aluminum foil, or double-stick tape.
Now that you know how to keep those cats off your furniture, choose your weapon and get to cat-proofing!
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17 01How Much Weight Can a Folding Chair Hold?
When looking for a folding chair, you need to know how much weight it can hold. You don't want to pick up a chair that has a low weight capacity. You want to ensure that the chair is strong enough not to break while people are sitting on it.
How Much Weight Will My Folding Chair Hold?
If you plan on having many people at your party or event, it is crucial to find something sturdy. But it should also be light in weight for enhanced mobility and foldability without the risk of damage.
The maximum weight capacity of a folding chair depends on several factors, including the specific model of the chair and its design. Some models can hold over 800 pounds, while others can only support around 300 pounds.
Before purchasing folding chairs for your wedding or special event, determine how much weight each can hold.
You can find this data printed on a label inside the chair itself. If you don't see it, contact the manufacturer for more information about how much weight their product can handle.
Factors That Affect the Weight Capacity of a Folding Chair
The strength of your folding chair depends on several factors. These include the material of make, its design, and age.
You should also know that the higher the weight limit, the more you will pay. Most folding chairs have a maximum weight capacity of 250 to 800 pounds, but I have found that some can hold more.
Material of Make
Folding chairs come in various materials, such as plastic, wood, metal, etc. Each material differently affects your folding chair's strength and durability.
Metal Folding Chairs
Metal folding chairs are heavier than wood and plastic. Because of their high tensile strength, they can support more weight without bending, breaking, or becoming damaged.
Metal chairs are also heavier than wood and plastic. They cost more than wood or plastic—but that's because they last longer and offer more durability!
The weight capacity for metal folding chairs averages between 600-800 lbs. This figure is higher than most other types of folding chairs out there.
Wood Folding Chair
Folding chairs made from wood are an excellent choice for any event. Wood is a durable material that can hold a lot of weight and folds very compactly, making it great for storage or transport.
Wood folding chairs have a weight limit of 300-800 pounds.Many types of wood get used for folding chairs, each with its characteristics, but teak is the best.
The type of wood you choose will determine how much weight your folding chair can hold.When choosing a folding chair, remember the thickness and quality of the wood that makes up your chair. Generally speaking, heavier woods like oak or teak will be able to support more weight than lighter woods like pine or cedar—and vice versa!
Plastic Folding Chairs
Regarding plastic folding chairs, the weight capacity can be anywhere from 220-600 lbs. It all depends on the material used to make them.
Plastic folding chairs are relatively cheap compared to other types of folding chairs.
Since they don't need special storage, these are one of the most convenient folding chairs available! You can use them for both indoor and outdoor events.Polyester Folding Chairs
Polyester folding chairs are a common sight in any restaurant or banquet hall.
They're sturdy, comfortable, and durable and can last through many years of use. This folding chair has a weight capacity of 220-650 lbs.Polyester is a synthetic fabric used in many indoor and outdoor furniture types. It's easy to clean. Just wipe off any spills with mild soap and water.
An easy way to store them is by stacking them vertically. This approach keeps the frame from warping over time while keeping dust off the material, so no spots appear later after repeated cleanings (or stains!).
The Physical Condition of the Chair
We must point out that the physical condition of your folding chair can also affect its weight capacity.
If a seat has a tear or a crack, the strength of that piece will get compromised. Therefore it may be unable to hold as much weight as before.If the chair has been used for a long time and is showing signs of wear, it may be unable to hold as much weight as it could when it was new.
The same goes for refurbished chairs. If they feature second-hand parts, they may be weaker than they once were.
As you can imagine, an old chair with a bent leg or missing screws or bolts will not be able to support as much weight as one in good condition.
The Shape and Design of the Folding Chair
While a folding chair's most basic and essential component is its legs, other factors influence how much weight a chair can hold.
The shape of the backrest and seat also affects a chair's ability to withstand heavy weight.Additionally, the frame's size and strength are crucial factors in determining how much weight a chair can hold.
A large but lightweight frame can support more weight than a smaller one, but a heavier one would be able to manage.
Quality Assurance (Certifications)
If you're unsure whether a chair holds your weight, look for certification from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
ANSI-certified chairs have gotten tested to ensure they can support a minimum weight before breaking.Other quality standards and certifications to consider for your folding chair include EN581 Standards, 225 lb Impact Testing Standards, and UL 94 Flame Retardance Standards.
What Is the Best Folding Chair For a Big Person?
If you're a big person, you want a folding chair that can hold your weight.
The best folding chair for a big girl or guy is one that can handle their weight and also one that they can sit on comfortably.If it's too low to the ground, one might feel like they are sitting in a hole or have to lean forward uncomfortably to keep balance.
Another crucial factor here is portability. If it's not easy to carry around with you wherever you go, there won't be much use in having it around!
Uses of Folding Chairs
Folding chairs have limitless applications. You can find them in meetings, seminars, and conferences for convenience and portability.
They're also commonly used at outdoor barbeques and picnics, and events where the venue has limited space.They can be helpful indoors too, like this moon square chair, capable of holding 350 pounds of weight.
Lawn Parties
When most people are at their best and most carefree in the summer, lawn parties are a great way to spend time with family and friends.
With saucer folding chairs offering comfortable seating for everyone, lawn parties are easy to pull off. And with a weight capacity of 400 pounds, it will be comfortable for just about anyone.
And if you were thinking about storing those folding chairs in a shed or garage when not in use? Forget it! These lightweight pieces of furniture fold so small that they can fit into any corner of your home without taking up any space.
Another solid option foldable option is this double moon camping chair, capable of holding up to 400 pounds.
Camping
You may not be able to take your heavy wood chair with you on a camping trip. But if you're looking for something easy to carry and store, several options are available.
Folding chairs for camping are generally lightweight and easy to carry, but they can also serve as tables when needed. This model has a weight capacity of 300 pounds.
This best-selling chair has extra padding for support and comfort, and can comfortably sit a person who weighs up to 300 pounds.
Beach or Poolside Lounging
The material for beach or poolside folding chairs is typically plastic or polyethylene. A model like this recliner can support a weight of up to 300 pounds. They are lightweight and easy to carry around and store.
You can fold them up for easy storage, but they aren’t as durable as other folding chairs because they lack metal parts to keep them sturdy.
Folding beach or poolside chairs are easy to clean and maintain. Beach or poolside folding chairs come in many styles, including armrests, cup holders, cushions for extra comfort, and even padded seats for extra support.
How to Strengthen a Folding Chair
The trick to strengthening a folding chair is adding new, heavy-duty legs and a reinforced frame. If you're handy with tools, you can do this easily at home.
Many websites sell reinforced chairs for reasonable prices. These may not be as sturdy as those built with all-new materials, but they'll still last longer than most commercial folding chairs on the market.
Folding Chair Maintenance Tips
Here are some ideas on how to care for your folding chairs so that they last longer.
Keep Them Dry
A folding chair in the rain or snow may warp or get rust spots on its frame. Water can also cause mold and mildew growth on the fabric seat of your folding chair.
Water damage will shorten your folding chair's life, so ensure to bring them inside after every use.
Store Them Carefully
Store folding chairs away from direct sunlight or heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, and other appliances that produce heat.
Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
Folding chair materials that react differently to chemicals such as bleach and ammonia-based cleaners. If you want to clean your folding chairs, use only mild dishwashing soap and warm water.
Know When It's Time To Replace the Seats
If you notice that your chairs are beginning to look worn out or starting to fall apart, then it could be time for you to start searching for replacement seats instead of trying to fix them up again yourself or having someone else do it for you.
You should also replace any damaged parts at this point so that nothing falls apart on your guests when they sit down.
Folding Chairs Are Worth Their Weight
The popularity of folding chairs has grown with the increasing number of people who spend time outdoors. It's no wonder that so many people love them! The typical weight limit for folding chairs ranges from 250 to 800 pounds.
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16 0110 Folding Chair Decor Ideas
Folding chairs get a terrible reputation. However, they're versatile members in the toolbox of any event planner, perfect for events both indoors and outdoors. Able to be put up and taken down quickly, durable and reusable, and rearranged in a moment, folding chairs are great options for any venue and event.
Unfortunately, one big downside of folding chairs is that even the most upscale ones tend to be plain at best. That's where a bit of creativity can go a long way. Bust out your craft bins and artistic eye.
It's time to dress up the drab and dream up something new with these ten folding chair decor ideas inspired by common events you'll find them at.
Weddings
Outdoor weddings are becoming increasingly popular, meaning that mobile seating options like folding chairs are becoming more and more vital for wedding planners.
So, for the perfect forest wedding deep surrounding the picturesque gazebo or a farmhouse wedding, you'll need some seating.
Let's check out some options to dress up that seating in a wide array of materials. In general, you'll want to keep an eye on how much your materials are costing per head.
This expense, like many others with weddings, will sneak up on you. Even a seemingly cheap decoration, like a $5 bow, adds up quickly with dozens of guests coming for your special day.
So if you have a strict budget to stick to, keep that in mind when planning your seating decor.
Flowers
Fresh flowers are an expensive option but an elegant one for a big day. Talk to a florist to discuss the perfect way to decorate folding chairs with fresh flowers. Big blooms aren't the best way to go here. Instead, some of the hardier greenery and filler flowers make a big impression with these setups.
Photo from Pinterest
Another option is to use fake flowers, like the ones found in hardware stores, to make garlands that can stand the test of time. These can be purchased premade or crafted by yourself or members of the wedding party as a gift.
Fake flowers can be much more economical and a much more durable option.
Ribbons & Fabrics
Weaving fabrics through the components of a folding chair is another great way to dress up a drab chair into something that will look elegant and lovely in wedding photos. Some great options are tulle, taffeta, and printed cotton.
Photo from Pinterest
Very small amounts of fabric can go a long way to dressing up a venue. Plus, overdoing it on fabrics can make your decor look tacky.
In addition, you can use ribbons to wind around the legs and struts of a piece to give it a striated effect. See-through and metallic ribbons, as well as glittery ones, can be used to great effect here.
Bows
Nothing truly shines through with romanticism and poise like a large bow on the back of a folding chair at a wedding. You can create bows through several methods, some more expensive than others, all sure to dazzle guests and groomsmen alike.
Some sashes come premade in a wide array of colors, ready to purchase and perfect to match the wedding colors.
However, making your own bows from satin is easy and cost-effective. It can also be a great activity for the wedding party to work on together, letting the groomsmen and the bridesmaids intermingle and spend time together.
Covers
One innovative way to skirt the concept of decorating a folding chair altogether is obscuring its form. When you're truly not a fan of folding chairs in the first place, you'll be ready to cover it up entirely. Thankfully, there are solutions available for that.
Photo from Pinterest
Available for purchase are folding chair covers, available in a wide variety of colors that can let the chairs blend into the background so that the more important elements of the day shine through, whether that's the guests' attire, the venue itself, or, of course, the people being wed.
Burlap
For the more rustic-inspired wedding, you can't go wrong with the material everyone keeps raving about. No barnyard wedding is complete without copious amounts of burlap, and it's the perfect material for sprucing up those folding chairs.
If guests aren't parked on bushels of hay, adorn their folding chairs with some charming burlap to elevate the experience to the next level of down-home comfort.
Birthday Parties
Birthday parties have become even more precious after the last few years of uncertainty and fear. Of course, life itself is more special, even making the celebration more important. So let's keep going all out with our decor and our jubilation for birthday parties.
Adorning those we adore doesn't stop at the cake and presents. There are ways to liven up the folding chairs at a birthday party, regardless of the age of the person being celebrated. These are especially great for big, bombastic parties like milestone events.
Streamers & Crepe
Crepe is an inexpensive way to dress up any space, and folding chairs are no exception. However, while it's easy to simply weave a stretch of crepe paper through the spokes of a folding chair, there are so many more options for the crafty-minded that are such to make your decor stand out.
Photo from Pinterest
Crepe paper of different colors can be laced together to create a checkerboard or basketweave panel that can sreve as a false back to folding chairs. This can create a stunning effect in pictures of the events, serving as an optical illusion in photos.
Balloons
Party balloons are a fun, festive way to liven up an event. Whether you get balloons with a manual air pump or helium balloons, you're sure to have guests excited by the prospect of their presence at your event.
Photo from Pinterest
One way to tie in balloons to your overall event theming is to have a balloon arch at the entrance and then tie a single balloon to each folding chair. All of this set up requires no helium and makes the entire event feel like one cohesive balloon-themed extravaganza.
For a more up-and-about feeling, snag a helium tank and get to filling for balloons that soar above the guests. Secure one or two to each chair for a balloon canopy to float in a colorful array above guests.
Funerals & Memorials
Though funerals are somber, they still call for a touch of elegance in deference to the deceased's life. There is a particular calling for an air of tastefulness on these occasions.
When decorating for a funeral, remember that less is more and that the grieving will be very focused on their emotions and their loved ones.
Photographs
A photograph taped to the back of a folding chair can be a great, simple option to decorate a folding chair for a memorial.
This can be a way to personalize the venue quickly and efficiently and give those attending a tangible piece of memorabilia to take home with them. This can be a big comfort to those currently experiencing grief.
Lace
For a funeral leaning towards elegance, especially where the passing was anticipated by loved ones, lace is a quiet option to adorn folding chairs that can help elevate the event towards a more somber tone.
Photo from Pinterest
The lace can be white or black. Black is a traditional mourning color in many colors, but white is also seen as a color of mourning in some as well as symbolizing purity.
Another benefit of lace is that it is seen as delicate and gentle, imagery that can comfort people when distressed.
Banquets & Picnics
Outdoor eating is a delightful way to spend time with loved ones and your community and is likely to be one of the most typical events that you'll see folding chairs trotted out. Elevate your gatherings with these fun folding chair decoration ideas.
Napkins, Tablecloths, and Embroidered Tea Towels
Rather than placing the napkins on the table, simply drape them across the back of the chair in anticipation of the guest's arrival. Placing napkins makes table setting faster and gives the folding chairs a bit of flair in anticipation of the event.
Pull out all the stops with custom-made gifts for a smaller gathering, perhaps an intimate family picnic. Make a seating chart and order custom monogrammed tea towels.
Drape them across the back of a folding chair for a bit of stylish decor that will elicit squeals of delight upon further inspection.
Final Thoughts on Folding Chair Decor Ideas
When it comes to decorating folding chairs, the sky is the limit. Be crafty with your budget, supplies, timeline, and human resources. Keep an eye out for whether your decor will upstage your guests and the event itself.
Remember, bigger isn't always better, and a folding chair is an underrated place for decor.
Finally, whatever happens, rest assured that no matter what, people will be more focused on being at your event than whatever is adorning the venue. So stay focused on the activities and ceremonies themselves, and you'll be sure to have a winner of a day.
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16 01Plan the Perfect Camping Trip in 5 Simple Steps
Ah, the great outdoors. There's nothing better than getting out of the house and reconnecting with nature for a few days.
Imagine it now: hiking through rugged paths, fishing in a sparkling lake, roasting marshmallows under a starry sky - if you haven't already guessed, I'm talking about taking a nice, relaxing camping trip.
Camping is great. It's inexpensive and family-friendly, and there are a ton of fun activities you can do. And wouldn't you know it, America is full of beautiful locations and grounds ripe for a scenic vacation.
Of course, before you can set up a tent and sit around a crackling fire, you've got to do some planning. This is where many people find themselves scratching their heads.
If you're one of those people, you're in the right place! In this guide, I'll teach you how to plan the perfect camping trip in 5 simple steps, so you can spend less time stressing and more time camping.
5 Steps to a Successful Camping Trip
Planning a camping trip is simple and fun when you know what you're doing. Unfortunately, it can be a nightmare if you don't.
If you're a novice and want to keep things as uncomplicated as possible, refer to these five easy steps:
Step 1: Deciding the Details
Before going forward, there are a few crucial decisions you've got to make, which will determine the location you choose and what you'll bring.
First off, ask yourself what type of camping you want to do. Do you prefer primitive camping or "glamping"? Perhaps you'd fancy something in between. This will ultimately indicate where you'll be sleeping for your trip.
A few traditionalists prefer the old-fashioned "sleeping under the stars" style in sleeping bags, though most campers just use tents. If you're more acquainted with city life, you might even feel more comfortable in an RV or a cabin.
In addition to your camping accommodations, you'll want to list off any other preferences in location. This is optional but helps break down the search process. If you're unsure what I mean by this, I'm just referring to the geography of the campgrounds.
Basically, do you want a mountainous region, a flat region, or a site beside a river? There are even beach campsites available for those of you who don't mind some sand.
America is full of natural wonders and beautiful locations, so you should have no problem finding a campsite to fulfill your needs.
Step 2: Finding and Booking a Location
Once you've got the speculations out of the way, it's time to find and reserve a campsite. The easiest way to start your search is by Googling "campsites near me." Pay attention to user-submitted photos, reviews, and recommendations, as these will give valuable insights into each location.
If you're looking for a grander vacation than some local spot, try looking into the many national parks scattered around the country. Many of these places have campgrounds and offer some of the most alluring scenes you'll ever see. It may take a more extended trip to get to these spots, but the extra effort is worth it.
After you've found a suitable campground, check out the main website and take note of the regulations. Ensure that the place meets your accommodation requirements and any other needs. Many campsites have a minimum/maximum time you can stay, so make sure you factor that into your planning as well.
Before officially reserving a spot, refer to your schedule and weather forecasts so you can choose a suitable date. Once you're sure, everyone is good to go for your selected days, reserve your spot and write down the address to keep it handy.
Step 3: Research the Location
After you're set on a campsite, you should do some research on the location. Find out the activities available and anything that's nearby. Since camping is pretty lax when it comes to planning activities, you don't have to schedule everything perfectly, but it's good to know what there is to do.
The available activities will also affect what you pack for your camping trip. For example, if there's fishing available, you might take your fishing rod. Or maybe there are bike trails that prompt you to pump up your bike wheels and strap it on the back of your van.
There's nothing worse than arriving at your spot and realizing there's something you'd like to do but can't since you didn't bring the necessary equipment.
Finally, take a look around on the map and see if there are any convenience stores or other shops. Sometimes, unforeseen circumstances happen, and it's always good to have a nearby safety net of supplies you can fall back on when push comes to shove.
Step 4: Plan Meals and Make a Packing Checklist
Unless you're planning on fishing, hunting, and gathering to fill your belly at night, you should carefully plan your meals. Pack your food plentifully and full of stuff that won't go bad without refrigeration. Trail mixes, bars, and fruits are among some of the most popular camping foods.
If you want something a bit more substantial, there are pre-made camping meals available at stores that sell outdoor supplies. Additionally, many campsites have on-site shops that sell hot dogs and other cold foods you can cook over the fire. Alternatively, you can bring refrigerated items in a cooler, just as long as you have a stable source of ice.
You'll also need to bring a few packs of water bottles. Remember, it's always better to bring too much than too little.
Aside from that, you'll have to create a list of everything you'll need on your trip. I can't tell you precisely what you'll need, but I can give you a list of some of the essentials and a general guideline:
- Tent, tarp, and sleeping bags
- Blankets and pillows
- Spare clothes
- Extra shoes
- Outdoor flashlights and extra batteries
- Chairs
- Table (if the site doesn't have one)
- Stuff for starting fires (tinder, matches, lighter, etc.)
- Sunscreen
- First aid kit and extra bandaids
- Eating and cooking utensils
- Paper plates
- Cups
- Pocket knife
- Bug repellent
- Towels
- Wipes
- Trash bags
- Paper towels
- Portable phone charger
- Circumstantial gear (hiking gear, fishing gear, etc.)
Once again, this is only a general outline of what you should bring. You might need more or less depending on where and how long you're staying. An excellent way to keep track of everything is by writing down an itemized list and checking off each item during the packing process.
Step 5: Check Gear and Pack
Before you actually get down to packing the day before your trip, it's good practice to always check your gear to ensure everything works. That means testing out flashlights, electronic equipment, and anything else that might fail you.
Most people don't camp that often, so much of their camping supplies sit in storage for long periods. During this time, the equipment can degrade and stop working altogether.
If anything, a broken flashlight can be pretty inconvenient - especially when you've got to take a leak in the middle of the night. Hence, it's best to inspect the items on your checklist closely and don't cut any corners.
You should also take a good look at your car and ensure it's ready for a long trip since you probably want to camp at a nice campsite, not on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere.
Finally, go down your checklist and check off each item as you pack it away. Double-check your supplies, and you're all good to go!
Additional Tips for Planning Your Camping Trip
Here are a few extra pointers to help you along your camp planning journey:
- Avoid scheduling your trip during overly hot months and rainy seasons. The weather can really damper your plans if you're not careful.
- Pack a mix of light and warm clothes. Nights can get pretty cold, especially in mountain and desert regions.
- It's better to be over-prepared than un-prepared. There's nothing wrong with packing too many supplies, just as long as there's room for it.
- Bring extra, EXTRA clothes. People tend to bring too many pairs of clothing on vacation, but camping is where you'll need them. You never know when you'll fall in some mud or take an unexpected dive into the lake.
- When packing your food, put them in well-sealed containers or keep it in your car. Wild animals tend to sneak around and steal food when you're not watching.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it! That's everything you need to know for planning an incredible, unforgettable camping trip.
Whether you're looking to hike up some giant mountains or sit by a pond and fish, camping is just a few steps away from being your next vacation. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start planning your camping trip right now!
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16 01How To Make a Camping Kitchen
There's nothing like leaving the comfort of your house and taking a nice, relaxing camping trip.
Of course, if you're going to be in the great outdoors for more than a few days, you'll want some hot cooked meals. Bars and trail mix are nice, but their appeal diminishes at the thought of eating them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for a whole week.
More than likely, you're gonna want to make yourself a camping kitchen.
From a list of supplies you'll bring to the best meals you can cook over an open fire, everything you need to know about camping kitchens is here in this all-inclusive guide. So, pack your RVs and gather up some kindling because here's how you can make the perfect camping kitchen:
What Is a Camping Kitchen?
The term "camping kitchen" is pretty loose in definition, but it generally refers to a setup where you can cook hot food during a camping trip.
Camping kitchens are notably lightweight and portable, hence their convenience when you're miles deep into the wilderness. Setups can vary widely, so you'll have to construct your own layout based on your needs.
And yes, you can buy a premade camping kitchen, but they're often pricey and not customizable. Instead, you should think about making your own.
General Needs
Before creating your camping kitchen, you'll want to make a checklist of kitchen supplies you'll need regardless of what kitchen style you choose. Here's an example of basic needs for your camping trip:
- Napkins
Paper plates
Plastic utensils
Cups
Plastic bags (for cleanup)
For a complete list of supplies you'll need during your camping trip, refer to the official national park camping supplies list.
Choose Your Kitchen Style
To break things down, we've designed three basic models for camping kitchens: the barebones survivor, the intermediate camper, and the glamper.
None are superior to the others, but you'll want to choose which one you want to create depending on your preferences.
The Barebones Survivor
The barebones survivor is great if you're only spending a day or two at your campsite, as the supplies you have to pack are minimal, and cleanup is simple.
What You'll Need
Roasting sticks
Cooler
Ice bags
What You Can Cook
You're limited with what you can cook in the barebones survivor package, as you'll mainly live off of marshmallows, hotdogs, and snacks. Vegetables and chunks of meat are also valid options for roasting over an open fire, but you don't have many options overall.
Pros
- Easy to clean up
- It doesn't take up much space
- Gives off that "authentic" camping experience
Cons
- Limited to what you can make
- If you forget any of the supplies, you don't have much leeway
- Not suitable for camping trips that last more than a day (unless you're an expert survivalist)
The Intermediate Camper
Next up is the intermediate camper, which is excellent if you plan to spend a few days at your campsite. It's the "in-between" of the barebones survivor and the glamper and is probably your best bet to go off of when you design your camping kitchen.
What you'll need
- Fire pit grate
- Cast iron pan
- Portable table
- Knife
- Metal tongs
- Cooler
- Ice bags
- Dish soap
- Sponge
What You Can Cook
Unlike the barebones survivor, there's quite a bit you can cook with this one. With a metal grate and a cast iron pan, you open your options to hamburgers, bacon, grilled chicken, hearty roasted veggies, eggs, and more.
Plus, if you're feeling adventurous, you can even get yourself a campfire pot for heating up some lovely soups, stews, and boils. Anything you can cook on a grill can get cooked with this setup.
Pros
- Fairly compact
- Versatile
- Good variety of what you can cook
- Perfect for novice and expert campers alike
Cons
- None. It falls perfectly in between the barebones survivor and the glamper, which excel at different points.
The Glamper
Don't let the name deter you from this one; if this style of camping brings you the most enjoyment, you should go for it!
The glamper has everything you need and is the optimal setup for medium to extended stays in the wild. It takes a bit more time to pack and clean, but it's well worth the effort (especially if you love good food).
What You'll Need
- Portable camping stove
- Small propane tanks
- Portable counter setup
- Electric fridge
- Cutting board
- Bowls for mixing
- One small or medium-sized pot
- One small or medium-sized saucepan
- Picnic table
- Knife
- Stirring utensils
- Plastic box to store supplies and food
- Dish soap
- Sponge
What You Can Cook
Are you craving a full steak dinner with potatoes and greens? Done. Pasta in your choice of sauce? Of course. Deep fried fish? If you bring enough oil, nothing is stopping you!
Anything you can cook on a stove at home, you can cook with this setup. It's the most liberal in what you can do with your cooking, and if you're a chef who wants to impress their friends, this one is perfect for that as well.
Pros
- As long as you don't need an oven, you can probably cook it
- Great for REALLY long trips
- Picky eaters don't have to survive off of hotdogs and nuts
- The people in the next campsite over will be jealous
Cons
- Takes more time to pack and clean up
- You'll probably need a bigger car to pack all this stuff
- The people in the next campsite over might try to mooch off of you
Designing Your Own Camping Kitchen
While we've laid out a general outline for various camping kitchens based on different camping styles, you can still adjust them and make them your own.
For example, you can add a few supplies to the barebones camper if you're only staying a night but want a meal cooked in a cast iron pot. Or, if you want to combine the glamper and the intermediate camper (basically adding a grate and a cast iron pan to the glamper), you can do that as well.
In general, these components comprise the quintessential camping kitchen setup:
- A food storage unit
- A cooking vessel
- A place to prep
As long as you keep these bases covered, you can build on and experiment with different supplies.
Other Handy Camping Kitchen Supplies
While these supplies aren't necessary, they're fantastic additions to any camping kitchen and enhance your cooking experience even further.
Campfire Sandwich Maker
This handy device allows you to make grilled cheese and other cooked sandwiches over an open fire.
Portable Drip Coffee Maker
If you need your morning coffee, this one is more like a necessity. Remember to bring mugs or portable cups to serve it in.
Small Camp Stove
Unlike a regular camping stove, a small camp stove has only one burner and can't cook quite as much food. While this is great for solo camping, it's not necessarily the best option for large groups.
A Disposable Tablecloth
This makes cleaning up drastically easier, especially if you've got a lot of messy eaters with you.
Tips for Managing Your Camping Kitchen
For a safe and environmentally friendly camping experience, make sure to follow these valuable tips:
Keep Food Packed Up
If you're not keeping an eye on your stuff, wild animals can quickly get into your supplies and wreak havoc on the food you pack. To avoid this, you'll want to tightly seal all food items in plastic containers or in your car when you're not using them.
Bringing along a large plastic box can help protect your food during the night and give you a way to easily pack up your kitchen gear.
Clean Up After Yourself
This should be known without being said, but always make sure to clean up after cooking. That means appropriately disposing of trash and washing your dishes. If you leave your pots and pans to sit out while they're dirty, harmful bacteria and bugs will get into them.
Make Sure Cold Food Stays Chilled
A few bags of ice won't last you more than a day or two, so if you don't have a portable fridge, you'll want to locate the nearest convenience store.
Luckily, most campsites have on-site shops you can buy ice, so always ensure that you research the nearest stores and establishments before you leave.
Don't Cook in The Dark
Cooking in the middle of a forest can be quite dangerous at night, even if you have a fire extinguisher at your site. It's best to leave the heavy cooking endeavors for the day and roast marshmallows and hot dogs at night.
Final Thoughts for Ultimate Camp Kitchen
Well, there you have it! That's everything you need to know about creating a fantastic camping kitchen, so hopefully, you're ready to get out there and cook up some delectable meals by the fire.
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- Napkins