Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. You can spend time in nature, have fun around a campfire, or just relax by a lake. But before you head into the wilderness, make sure that you are taking all the necessary steps to keep yourself safe during your adventure. Remember that camping means increased time under the sun. To avoid overexposure, here are some basic sun protection tips you should keep in mind:
1) Use Sunscreen
Sunscreen should always be on the top of your list when it comes to preparation for camping trips. Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes prior to leaving home and reapply every two hours to keep your skin protected from harmful UV rays. When choosing a sunscreen, you should choose one that has an SPF (sun protection factor) rating of 30 or higher. The higher the number, the more protection your body will receive from the sun’s rays.
Wearing sunscreen will also benefit your skin in different ways. It can prevent hyperpigmentation, help fight wrinkles, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and even slow down the aging process.
2) Wear Sunglasses and a Hat
Aside from sunscreen, sunglasses and hats should also be a part of your camping essentials. To protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays that can cause cataracts and macular degeneration, wear sunglasses that block out 99 percent or more of both UVA and UVB radiation. For extra protection, consider wearing hats made from lightweight materials like cotton. Lightweight materials are less likely to absorb the sun’s harmful rays and make you feel uncomfortable.
3) Dress from the Sun
Sunglasses and hats aren’t enough to protect you from the harsh rays of the sun; clothing is important too. Choose clothes that cover as much skin as possible while still allowing you plenty of comfort. Select long sleeves and pants instead of short-sleeved shirts and shorts. Also, wear light colors that don’t absorb sunlight. Aside from protecting your skin from the sun, this kind of clothing can also help regulate your temperature. You don’t want to overheat when you’re out in the sun, so it’s best to dress lightly.
4) Avoid High Exposure Times
As mentioned earlier, camping is ideal because you can take advantage of beautiful scenery without having to worry about pollution or crowds. However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t limit how long you stay outside of your tent. Make sure to set aside specific times throughout the day to rest and rehydrate. This will allow your body to recover from the rigors of being in the open air. Plan your activities carefully so that you don’t have to go hiking when the sun is highest in the sky.
5) Stay Hydrated
When camping, staying hydrated is essential. Bring enough water for drinking and cooking purposes. This will give you the energy you need to go about your day. During camping trips, you’ll especially want to drink enough water to replace what you lose through sweating and breathing. Water helps flush toxins from your body and keeps your muscles working properly. Having adequate amounts of fluid also prevents dizziness, dehydration, and other health problems.
6) Take Breaks When Needed
Don’t forget to rest! While it’s great to appreciate the natural beauty of your surroundings during your camping trip, you should learn when it’s time to give your body a break. Being under the sun for too long isn’t a joke. Your body needs breaks to recover and adjust to its environment. If you feel fatigued, dizzy, overheated, or nauseous, get under the shade and take some time to regain your composure. After you’re feeling better, you may decide to venture back out for another adventure.
7.) Treat Sunburns Properly and Immediately
Sunburns are common among campers. You never know when a strong ray of sunshine might make your skin red or burn it. The first thing to do when you notice any signs of burning is to apply aloe vera gel. Aloe vera contains enzymes that naturally reduce inflammation and speed up healing and moisturize your skin. This soothing ointment should be applied directly to the affected area to provide immediate relief.
8) Have a First Aid Kit
First aid kits should never be forgotten on camping outings. This kit can save your life if you experience an emergency. When someone experiences problems due to too much sun exposure, a first aid kit will help prevent further complications. It should contain all necessary medication and other treatment options for minor injuries such as cuts and scrapes. Have everything placed in a bag that won’t easily get damaged.
The Bottom Line
There’s no doubt that camping is one of the most relaxing pastimes for many adventure-seekers. However, there are some things you need to remember before heading out to the wild. By following these basic guidelines, you should be able to enjoy yourself under the sun with minimal worries.
