Ask Mica: How to Pitch a Tent for Dummies
Dear Mica:
My brother is planning a huge camping trip with his buddies to celebrate his birthday in July and he’s invited me to come along. The only problem is…I hate camping. I’d tell him I was too busy but we only just became friendly again in the past few months (we didn’t talk for years). Meaning, I can’t get out of it. They go camping every year for his birthday and it’s the first time they’ve invited me so it means a lot to them. What do I do?
City Girl Forever
Dear CGF,
I’m sorry to hear you don’t like camping! First off, do you have any girlfriends that like it? I’d check with your bro and if he gives the green light, try and recruit someone. Camping with a bunch of boys will definitely be fun, but at some points you might want a girl to come to the washroom in the dark with you – just sayin’.
I’m assuming that your brother and friends will be in charge of getting together all of the camping gear. Check with them. If not, hit up Canadian Tire and MEC (among other companies) to get yourself set up.
Other things you’ll need (off the top of my head):
- bug spray + sunscreen
- warm clothes (it can get cold at night), things with long sleeves/pant legs that aren’t too heavy (bug spray is good, but long clothing = added back up) + a hat
- tent (of course) + air mattress (trust me, it can make a huge difference – do make sure you have a way to inflate it though) + sleeping bags + pillows if you want some
- Matches (think long in length) + newspaper + firewood
- frisbee/books/other stuff to do during the day
CLICK HERE to get a thorough list
Are they planning to do group hikes, canoe around the area and/or any other related nature stuff? Likely yes. Be prepared to do these things. That said, you dont have to do everything. Compromise and your brother will appreciate it.
That said, make sure to put yourself out there and try things you may think you don’t like; sometimes you can discover a new passion!
About.me has a great “Camping 101″ link. CLICK HERE to read it.
PS – Boys like to fart in tents (another reason to bring a girl). Just a heads up :)
About the Author
mica
Mica is a stylista who likes to have her way with words. She's a Pink Mafia old timer and will bust your balls for wearing sweatpants in public. She likes watching the footy and updating instagram daily. She hates people who stand on the wrong side of the escalator and the "coffee" they serve at Timmy Ho's. If you see her at the bar, get her a vodka soda - two limes. Check out the blog she edits at youngandrestless.ca. Follow her on Twitter @micalj