TheCampingGuy.com Blog | Camping Tips

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You’ve seen them…they’re lined up outside in long lines waiting for the new iPhone, or Xbox or even concert tickers.  They show up days in advance so they can be first in line.  The last time I saw that I said to myself, “what nuts!” they’re in lawn chairs and sleeping bags.  If you gonna do this, do it right, with comfort!  So, for all you fans that want to be first in line, here’s some Camping Guy tips on how to make it enjoyable.

Shelter
You need something that you can immediately fold up and stow away so that if you’re asked to leave the line or if it suddenly begins to move, you’re not left in the cold dragging your belongings.  A small pop-up tent is the easy answer. They’re easy to fold and unfold and they’re very light. So if the line moves, your shelter can, too

Comfort
A pop-up tent is convenient and light but the sidewalk is very hard!  So get a camping pad or camping mattress, as they’re called, to keep your body comfortable, away from the cold ground and cramp free.  Also, take a sleeping bag, pillow, and comfortable chair so you can sleep a little….sit a little, and not get totally bored.

Layers
Since you do have to be mobile while at a “first in line” campout, instead of blankets, layer yourself with as many articles of clothing as you need for the temperature. For really cold weather campouts, try a poncho style coat that you can put lots of layers underneath and that will keep the rain off you.  Don’t have a poncho?  Use a green garbage bag and make a poncho.

Drinks
Keep yourself going with hot tea, plenty of water and hot chocolate during your campout. Try to avoid too much caffeine, however, as it will dehydrate you, putting your health in jeopardy during your fun, crowded event. Also be sure to keep your electrolytes up with Gatorade or some other sports drinks or juices.

Food
Be sure to eat something that will keep you going as well. Since you’re staying over night or longer, you’ll likely need to take a couple of meals in a cooler on wheels with you. Leftovers on ice with a side of salad is a great meal for your campout. You might also be able to take a small single burner stove  for coffee, soup, hot chocolate, etc.  If you use a single burner camping stove you can also cook “in the can” food, such as beans and spaghetti, and not have any cleanup!

Don’t forget to take books, magazines, video games, iPod, - anything to keep you occupied.  It could be a long cold wait, but if you use my tips you will be one of few people in line that is warm, dry and comfortable.

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