Preping for Unpredictable Weather When Camping
It has felt like an extra long winter, and with the long weekend approaching, many of us are all set and ready to get our camp on. You have your site booked, friends who co-camp with you are reviewing the checklist, and you’re double-checking the weather every other day.
Camping in May can be hit or miss regarding weather; if you are a seasoned RVer, you know all too well what it’s like to experience all kinds of weather and get stuck in the rain.
Most who have experienced a rainy weekend are well prepared; they know what equipment they wish they had last time and will not be caught without it on round two. Others are concerned about all types of weather but hoping to make the best of it no matter how the weather roulette lands; they just can’t wait to be out in the RV.
Camping with kids during this time of year is another kind of camping. There’s no risk when you’re playing roulette with the weather, and it’s just you and your partner you have to worry about. A few extra hours spent inside reading a book or curled up playing a card game while parked in the great outdoors is its special kind of serenity.
Those with children don’t have that same luxury, especially if they are still young.
If you plan to take the RV out on the weekends this time of year, in camping preparation there are a few things to remember when packing up the rig.
- As mentioned, the weather is unpredictable. Bring all the raincoats, pants, boots and hats. Muddy Buddies are ideal for little ones who want to puddle jump. Be sure to bring warm layers and lots of them. Things will inevitably get wet if you’re caught in the rain, and there’s nothing quite like being damp and cold and wishing for dry clothes.
- Get outside. Even if the weather isn’t ideal, bundle up, take a walk, hike, pack the kids in their carrier or wagon and make it an adventure. Despite the weather, getting everyone out of the RV will help burn off the energy and create long-lasting memories in the fresh air. Don’t get cooped up; it’s a recipe for disaster, adults and children alike.
- Hopefully your RV has an awning, and even so bringing extra tarps and rope can help create a larger dry space. Hanging tarps from the surrounding trees provides an extended outdoor space to gather with friends, eat dinner outside and even have a fire.
- Don’t cancel the trip just because of the changed weather. Some of the best trips are made out of not ideal circumstances. You’d be surprised by the creative activities children and adults can find when stuck inside an RV during a downpour. Stock your cupboards with new colouring books, fresh crayons, and activity kits; bring the knitting needles, your favourite games or even a puzzle.
- Have an ATV, UTV or Dirt Bike? This is the perfect time of year to get out and get a little dirty. If you have the means to travel with your all-terrain vehicle, you won’t regret it. With the chill still in the Spring air, hitting up some nearby trails with your pals can provide you with a different kind of camping experience. While the water and beaches warm up, think about packing up the kids and finding some trails worth exploring. There’s nothing quite like the need for speed.
Take your camping adventure with optimism; we have all found ourselves caught in all types of weather; however, the weather changes and it can also surprise you. If it does become unbearable, remember you can always pack up and go home early.
During your next trip, reevaluate whether or not your RV is big enough for you and your crew. Having space for everyone to enjoy their personal space and activities can affect the success of a trip. Many new RV models offer separate bunks for children, including a designated play space. We offer models that provide a variety of layouts to accommodate the number in your family, along with a couch under a bunk, a tv space separate from the main area or even an additional washroom.
RVs are built now with you in mind. Keep your trip easy, even if you get caught in the rain. Drop by the lot and see for yourself; the new models offer upgrades you didn’t even know you were missing.
