How to Camp in Hot and Dry Weather

Living in Arizona, I have been camping in hot and dry weather for over 10 years. Read this article to learn how I ensure a safe trip and for tips on camping in hot and dry weather.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Camping gear
• Sunblock
• Lots of water
• A tarp for shade
• A cooler packed with items like water, gatorade and food

1. Decide where you will be camping. Try to pick a place where water is near - swimming or simply sticking your feet in water can be an awesome way to cool yourself off when the weather is very hot and dry.

2. Determine if there is a water source nearby. If no water source is nearby, you will need to pack at least 3 gallons of water per person per day (including partial days or travel days). If there is a water source nearby, you will need at least 2 gallon of water per person per day (including partial days or travel days) AND a water purification method such as tablets or a portable water filter.

3. Weather can be very hot and dry during the day and cooler at night. Pack layers - a sleeveless shirt, a t-shirt, a long-sleeve t-shirt and a hooded sweatshirt should do the trick. Pack both shorts and pants, sandals and shoes and socks. Be prepared for any weather change. A rain jacket or disposable poncho is always smart to pack.

4. If weather is hot and dry, you will likely not be allowed to have a campfire, especially if you are camping in a primitive area on public land. Make sure you have warm items with you to keep you comfortable at night. It is important to recognize that while days can be over 100 degrees, night time temperatures can drop into the 50s and 60s in areas that are hot and dry.

5. When selecting your camp spot, find an area that will be in the shade if possible. Any natural shade will help cool you off during the hottest part of the day. Pitch the tent in the shade. Set up your water station in the shade. If no shade is available, create your own by tying a tarp to your vehicle or to a couple of trees. Be creative - shade, even if you have to create it, is a must!

6. Store coolers in the shade to help ice last as long as possible.

7. Store food out of direct sunlight.

Tips & Warnings

• You can never have enough water when camping - especially in hot, dry weather.
• If you are filtering your water, filter more than you think you will need and store in airtight water bottles. Dehydration can present itself very quickly - the more water you have available to drink, the safer the experience will be.
• If you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Drink water whenever you feel thirsty.
• Pay attention to those you are traveling with. Disorientation, strange statements or dizziness can be signs of dehydration, heatstroke, etc. Get help immediately if someone is acting out of character.
• Pay special attention to dogs when camping in hot, dry weather. Ensure they are drinking plenty of water and are choosing to rest in the shade, not the sun.
• Do not camp in hot, dry weather without sunblock! Slather it on at least every two hours, more often if you are sweating excessively.
• Have plenty of water. If you feel you are running out of water and you have no way of filtering nearby water, end your trip and leave immediately.
• Watch the skies for signs of thunderstorms. Even though the weather is hot and dry, thunderstorms can crop up at any moment. Be prepared for weather changes.
• Do not drink significant amounts of alcohol during your camping trip in hot, dry weather. It will cause you to become dehydrated faster.

[mysteriousmuse]

on 7/6/2009 I appreciated these tips as a "neighbor" in AZ. I haven't lived here long, so these are very helpful! 5*****