Camping in the Desert

Desert is considered as a place with extreme climate and weather conditions. There are several regions where desert get intensely hot in the day but cold during night time. If you are planning to go camping on a desert, you must plan as well as pack for both weathers. You may need a desert trip packing list.

Planning for Desert Camping

Spending the day on a hot and humid weather requires you to stay hydrated. However, finding a reliable drinking water source in the desert might be challenging. You need to be physically fit when camping in a desert like Death Valley National Park camping. You must keep in mind these challenges as you prepare for your trip.

There are also other concerns you may encounter as you spend time in a desert. These include but not limited to finding landmarks, getting on trails and encountering dangerous animals. Deserts may house venomous snakes which may threaten your safety. We recommend you research about the area first before your camping schedule.

Desert’s natural beauty makes it ideal for camping trips. Nevertheless, it requires prior preparation as one mistake may lead you in encountering trouble.

Provided in the next sections are some tips and tricks when camping in the desert.

Safety Precautions

The desert presents a very harsh environment. You need to know and understand the things you may expect. Moreover, bringing along the appropriate desert camping equipment is a big help. If you are hiking, make sure to bring along items in your desert hiking checklist.

One of the medical conditions that desert campers encounter is Hyperthermia, also known as heat stroke. It is a serious threat that one may encounter by staying in a hot and humid weather for a long time.

Heat Stroke Risk

Around 400 US campers die per year due to excessive exposure to heat. Should you expect yourself to spend your entire day in the sun, there is a huge risk of heat exhaustion or stroke. This is the time when your body can no longer cool down itself.

Some of the symptoms you must note of are confusion, dizziness, chills, hallucinations and slurred speech. If you notice someone from your group experiencing this situation, allow the individual to rest. It is best to allow his or her body to cool down in an area with shade. We also recommend planning for items to bring in your desert survival kit list.

Staying Hydrated

Should you notice that the individual encountering heat stroke does not cool down, encourage him or her to drink water. By hydrating the body, you can alleviate the heat stroke symptoms. It is also the most essential thing to accomplish as you camp in the desert.

Camping experts recommend drinking around 3-4 gallons of water per day in the hot desert. Nevertheless, the amount of drinking water you need should depend on your exposure to heat. It is recommended to drink water enough that you urine is transparent or clear.

You can cut your water loss by breathing on your nose. Avoiding foods that are fatty may also aid in keeping water in your body. Fatty foods may be difficult to digest which takes more water.

Keeping in Track

Deserts lack landmarks which can guide you on your path. You may easily get lost or disoriented when traveling in the area. With this, it is difficult to lose belongings in the desert. Once you misplace several items, it will be difficult to identify its potential location.

If you are camping in a desert, it is recommended to bring along a map, cellphone and GPS unit. Should you prefer to go on a hike, we suggest you to bring desert hiking essentials. On the other hand, when travelling alone, notify people with your location. With this, you can get immediate help and assistance in case of emergency.

Desert Animals and Wildlife

Despite having a limited wildlife, the desert can be an enjoyable location for a camping activity. It is home to a number of birds, insects and wild animals. They are extremely adapted to the surroundings, managing the heat of their body in blending in.

Compared with other regions, the desert wildlife is known to be more subtle. Since the heat during the daytime is intense, most animals are sleeping on shaded areas. The animals tend to be nocturnal. Should you wish to interact with animals, you have a better chance of finding them in early morning or late evening.

There are also animal that can challenge your safety. In the desert, you might encounter venomous snakes and insects. These include but not limited to spiders, rattlesnakes and scorpions. With a just a bite or sting, you might find yourself in a bad situation.

It is important to utilize certain safety precautions when dealing with these animals. We recommend you to be aware on your surroundings. Should you encounter stings or bites from these venomous animals, you must request for emergency assistance.

Adapting on a Desert Camp

Participating on a desert camping requires challenging adaptation procedures. The desert presents an environment which is not conventionally comfortable for most people. You can physically train yourself by performing activities on nearby areas such as California Desert campgrounds.