Explore the Great Outdoors with Bomgaars

Summer is around the corner. School will be out shortly, and the kiddos will need something to stave off boredom. What better place to find fun than the outdoors? We have compiled quick guides and products to help you and your family have a fun-filled summer. 

Camping

Whether you want to camp earlier this season or want to prepare for camping season, you'll need the right equipment and tips. Fun for the whole family does require some forethought, after all.

Here are some camping essentials:

• Tent (to accommodate the number of people, plus extra if you need to keep the peace)
• Sleeping bag (according to average temps & your specific needs)
• Cooler(s) (large enough for everything plus ice)
• Camp stoves, fuel, & meal prep (don't forget utensils!)
• A first aid kit
• Sunscreen & bug spray
• Any toiletries needed for the length of the stay, remember to stay clean!
• Utility boxes (store everything you need & keep it away from critters)

 If you aren't in a typical camping area, RV stop, or such, you may need to look for a place to pitch your tent and settle your family in for the night. Dry and level areas are the best.

Keep away from these areas:

• Dark, wooded, & moist areas that could attract ticks
• Next to a ravine, stream, or body of water
• Places with dead branches overhead, leaf piles, & dead trees that could fall

Kayaking

Go on an adventure with your family with our sit-in and sit-on-top kayaks. Don't forget a paddle! If you're a beginner at kayaking, we highly recommend this guide by rei.com. Here's a comparison of sit-on-top & sit-in kayaks so you can choose the right one (info from rei.com). 

Sit-on-top:

• Easy to get in, no matter the depth
• Great for casual uses, for kids, or as a swimming platform
• Most comfortable when both air & water are warm as you will get wet
• Self-draining scupper holes save you time pumping out water
• Heavier than sit-in
• May include rod holders for fishing enthusiasts

Sit-in:

• Most comfortable when air & water are cool
• Multiple points of contact inside will allow better maneuvering and useful in rough water
• More efficient paddling than on a sit-on-top
• Spray skirts can help, but a bilge pump will be needed if it becomes swamped (you'll need wet exit skills if this happens in a narrow sit-in)

Fishing

If you and your family are looking for a more laid-back activity while camping or on any summer day, try out fishing. This is great for kids around middle school and high school age. Ensure you and your kids have a good time by identifying good fishing spots. 

Here are some clues:

• An area full of vegetation (like the edge of the weeds)
• A place with overhangs and shady places (algae collects here & predatory fish hide here)
• Drop-offs are excellent for hunting deep water fish
   

Backyard Camping & Grilling

Sometimes you can't go camping, whether it be budget, work or other reasons. Luckily, a small tent outside for the kids, lawn chairs, a fire pit, and grilled food for dinner can mirror the camping experience without going anywhere. Roast marshmallows over a fire pit. Scoot over your lawn chairs, and be sure to help the kiddos roast theirs if they're in elementary school or under.

Lastly, don't forget to take some pictures of the moments. A noteworthy rainy-day craft is putting together a scrapbook or looking over photos of past summer days.