Memorial Day is a special day to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms. It's a time to be thankful for their service and come together to support each other during tough times. Together, we celebrate the bravery, loyalty, and selflessness of those who served our country and sacrificed for our safety. If you're planning on spending Memorial Day with your loved ones in the great outdoors, we've compiled a list of 10 camping tips that will make your trip successful so you can build some unforgettable memories. 

1. Plan ahead
2. Check the weather
3. Stay hydrated
4. Pack a first-aid kit
5. Bring appropriate camping gear
6. Prepare for bugs
7. Respect wildlife
8. Practice fire safety
9. Leave no trace
10. Have fun

1. Plan ahead - As the unofficial first day of summer, it's no surprise Memorial Day is one of the busiest times for campgrounds! Since many people spend time outdoors that weekend, make sure to research the campsite you'll be visiting and make a reservation if possible. The BSA offers an extensive list of camps you can visit with your family throughout the summer. You can check out this list of camps here. If you need help finding and reserving a campsite near you, websites like reserveamerica.com and recreation.gov will help you find and reserve a campsite tailored to the type of outdoor experience you want! 

2. Check the weather - Keep an eye on the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Checking the weather before embarking on a camping trip is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone in your group. Doing something as simple as checking a day or two before your trip can help you prepare for potential weather hazards, such as thunderstorms, high winds, and extreme temperatures. Additionally, knowing the forecast can help you pack appropriate clothing and gear, such as rain jackets or extra layers. Being prepared for the weather can make all the difference in having a successful camping trip. If you need help finding rain gear, check out ScoutShop.org where you'll find rain gear like ponchos and rain suits—all delivered straight to your doorstep. 

3. Stay hydrated - It's essential to stay hydrated while camping, especially if you're doing outdoor activities. Bring plenty of water and electrolyte drinks to keep you hydrated throughout the day. We suggest bringing spill-proof water bottles and an MSR Trailshot Water Filter. This filter weighs just 5 oz., and it's designed to hide in stash pockets and deploy quickly. With its easy one-handed operation, it filters one liter in a mere 60 seconds, so you can get back on the trail quickly. This hollow-fiber filter meets U.S. EPA drinking water standards and NSF protocol P231 for the removal of bacteria (99.9999%), protozoa (99.9%), and particulates. It is also easy to clean - a few shakes help restore flow rates in the field; no tools are required. Replacement cartridges are available; a cartridge lasts for 2000 liters. We can't stress this enough, drink plenty of water—even when you're not thirsty! 

4. Pack a first aid kit - Accidents happen, so make sure to pack a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and any necessary medications. From minor cuts and scrapes to more serious injuries, having a well-stocked first aid kit can help you treat injuries quickly and effectively. It's also important to know how to use the items in your first aid kit and have basic first aid skills, such as how to clean and bandage a wound. This Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight First Aid Kit includes 6 sterile dressings (2" x 2"), 2 butterfly closure bandages, 4 adhesive bandages (1" x 3"), 2 knuckle adhesive bandages, a 10-yard rolls of 0.5" tape, 11 precut and shaped Moleskin pieces and 2 alcohol swabs. As for medications, the pouch includes 4 ibuprofen (200mg), 2 antihistamines (25mg), 2 AfterBite® sting and itch relief wipes, 3 After Cuts and Scrapes® towelettes, and 2 triple antibiotic ointments. The kit also contains splinter/tick remover forceps and 3 safety pins. By being prepared with a first aid kit, you can enjoy your camping trip with peace of mind knowing that you're ready for any unexpected injuries or mishaps.

5. Bring appropriate camping gear - Make sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, and camping chairs. Don't forget a camp stove or grill for cooking meals! You can find a great camp stove like the GSI Selkirk 460 Plus Camp Stove at Scout Shop This camp stove features two 14,000 BTU burners with individual controls designed to heat pots and pans rapidly making the small GSI Outdoors Selkirk 460 2-burner camp stove ideal for family campouts or troop outings! 

6. Prepare for bugs - Bugs can be a nuisance while camping, so make sure to bring insect repellent, citronella candles, and bug spray. Applying bug spray while camping is essential to protect yourself from insect bites and potential diseases they may carry. It not only helps prevent discomfort and itching from bites but also reduces the risk of contracting illnesses such as Lyme disease or West Nile virus. Plus, it allows you to fully enjoy your outdoor adventure without being constantly bothered by pesky bugs. So, make sure to pack bug spray and apply it regularly to keep those bugs at bay!

7. Respect wildlife - Remember you are a guest in the animals' home. Keep a safe distance from wildlife and do not feed them. When packing out food at a campsite, it's important to be mindful of the environment and the animals that inhabit it. Make sure to pack all food, trash, and scented items in airtight containers and secure them in a backpack or bear canister. Avoid leaving any leftover food or packaging behind, as it can attract wildlife and harm the ecosystem. Always follow your Leave No Trace principles and leave the campsite cleaner than you found it.

8. Practice fire safety - It is very important to practice fire safety while camping. Fires can quickly get out of control and become dangerous, causing harm to people and the environment. By following fire safety guidelines, we can prevent accidental fires and keep everyone safe. Remember to always use designated fire pits, keep flammable objects away from the fire, and never leave a fire unattended. It is also important to have a plan in case of an emergency and to know how to properly extinguish a fire. Let's all do our part to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience for everyone. Only build fires in designated areas and make sure to fully extinguish them before leaving! 

9. Leave no trace - Every seasoned Scout knows their Leave No Trace Principles. Following no-trace principles is crucial to preserving the natural environment and ensuring the sustainability of outdoor activities. By leaving no trace, we can minimize our impact on the environment and protect it for future generations to enjoy. This means packing out all garbage and waste, staying on designated trails, avoiding damaging vegetation, and respecting wildlife by keeping a safe distance. By following these principles, we can all do our part to preserve the beauty of nature and ensure it remains intact for years to come.

10. Have fun - Finally, remember to have fun! Camping can be an amazing experience that allows you and your loved ones to connect with nature in a unique way. Spending time outdoors, breathing fresh air, and enjoying the sounds of the wilderness can be incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating. Camping also gives you the opportunity to unplug from technology and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Whether you're roasting marshmallows over a campfire, hiking through the woods, or stargazing at night, there's something special about being out in the great outdoors. So, if you're looking for a fun and memorable adventure, consider heading out on a camping trip this Memorial Day! 

Following these simple tips ensures that your Memorial Day camping trip is fun, safe, and memorable. We hope you have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend with your family! For camping equipment and hiking gear, visit ScoutShop.org—the official store of the BSA.