Location of the Tent
There are a number of little things in connection with the arrangement of the camp and its tent which are not likely to occur to the inexperienced camper which nevertheless are quite important when it comes to his comfort. One of these little things is the exact location of the tent and its position. If there is any option in the matter it will be well to have the tent face a little south of east. This brings sunshine into the tent’s entrance the first thing in the morning at a time when it is most needed and welcome. This position of the tent also insures considerable protection against cold northwest winds. The camper will be more comfortable under all weather conditions if his tent is pitched in this position.
Then again, be careful to choose a well-drained [[136]]and fairly open situation for the camp—one well exposed to sun and air, and yet look out for shelter. In case of wet weather the open situation will allow the tent to dry out sooner, and a fringe of timber to the west or northward will often enable the tent to safely weather a blow that would otherwise send it kiting.
Be careful not to camp near dead timber which might be liable to blow down on you in a storm with unfortunate results.
Until the camper has had a little experience he is apt to exaggerate the hardships of camping. Colds and minor ailments are not apt to attack those who have taken to the open in a camping trip. Even a drenching is likely to be more unpleasant than dangerous to health, provided the precaution of getting into dry clothing and shoes as soon as possible is followed. If the shoes are wet and there is no dry article to change to, the chill of the wet may be cured and the shoes made warm as toast by heating a few small stones in the camp fire or on the camp stove, and then placing these in the shoes for a few minutes. Be a little careful not to heat the stones hot enough to burn the shoes.