Practice - Camping and Backpacking

A disaster is really an opportunity for an outdoor adventure. Camping and backpacking is a great way to practice this. Trust me when I say camping with kids takes practice (for parents and the kids). It teaches survival skills, and expectations for your child to rely on in a disaster. It prepares them for the physical demands of work and rough living conditions. These experiences test and build endurance- physically and psychologically. Your kids will learn what they are capable of handling and doing, it teaches how to deal with stress and frustration. It may not seem like it but your practicing experiences will give you all something to laugh about in a disaster. Memories of flooded tents, burnt food, exhaustion and frustration will be comforting once you have mastered it. Camping can strengthen family bonds – which will be needed throughout disaster recovery stress.

There are lots of great resources for beginner camping and backpacking. I recommend starting with a camping trip in your backyard or somewhere close to home. It may take a few tries just to make it through the night, and figure out what you’ll need without forgetting something. There is also the Let’s go camping program from the Oregon state parks (if you live in the pacific northwest). These are ranger lead camping trips; it includes borrowed camping equipment and a complete guide for everything from setting up your tent, to cooking and fun. Work your way up to longer trips further from home, adding gear and skills as you go. I recommend keeping a list and everything in a box (I call it my chuck box). This can also become a handy in a disaster or evacuation situation if you have the time to grab it.

If your up for backpacking (once you've mastered the camping) you can take your 72-hour kit backpacking or just keep your backpack stocked and ready as your emergency kit.  Backpacking supplies can be pricey but you'll be completely set and comfortable in an emergency. you'll also have one set of supplies instead of all your camping gear AND your 72 hour kits. It's a great investment, and you get to see the best parts of the country thhis way.

I promise you the earlier you start the easier it is to get them used to it. My 2 young is already bugging me to go camping – because there are flowers out. Remember its normal for lots of can we go homes. Stick to your guns and finish it out. It’s best to push your limits by your own choice now than have your limits overwhelm you later.

For more information and encouragement:
http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/lgc_intro.shtml- brochure for Oregon state parks “let’s Go Camping”program
http://camping.about.com/c/ec/1.htm - 5 lessons on camping for beginners
www.joyofcamping.com