HOLIDAYS

Evening Post, Volume CXXII, Issue 153, 26 December 1936, Page 15

HOLIDAYS

CAUTIONS TO CAMPERS

Every year camping seems to become more popular, and consequently the number of seasoned and experienced campers is growing, states Ihe "Auckland Star." There are always novices, though, and those, who have never camped before are wise if they join with those who know the best ways of setting about it, or if they attend one of the many good organised camps that are to be found in many parts of the country- If, however, you prefer to camp "on your own" in a spot that takes your fancy, there are certain rules to be observed. You cannot pitch your tent or park your caravan anywhere, even if the land appears to be common land, but permission must first be obtained from the farmer or landowner. Therefore, don't leave the choice of a camp site until late in the evening. Select it in the afternoon, if possible, so that after getting permission, you can pitch your j tent, see to food supplies, and get all; ready for the night in good time. You j

may be attracted by a lovely wood, or like the idea of camping on the bank of a river, but do not. Neither ground will be suitable, and both may be damp. The wood will shut out the sunshine, and not be very pleasant in heavy rain or a thunderstorm, and on the river bank you may-' .meet with mosquitoes, as well as damp mists. Choose a field. for preference, near a farm from which you can obtain milk, eggs, butter, fruit, and vegetables. Do not camp in a field in which animals are grazing; they will only disturb you at night if you do. The ideal camping site is on a slight slope facing north, with a shelter from the wind, and a dry and level patch for the campers to lie on. Never camp very near trees, but be sure a good water supply is close at hand. A spring or well is best for drinking. If you intend spending a few nights on the same site, let it be within easy reach of a town or village, so you do not run short of food. Before going to bed always examine guylines and tent pegs. In rainy weather slacken the guylines a Jittle. Try to avoid touching the inside of your tent when it is raining. Spread dry bracken, hay, or newspapers on your ground sheet and under your sleeping bags, and be sure you have enough blankets.