Nothing says adventure like a long weekend camping trip. Open road, blue skies, fresh air…it all adds up to a memory making experience. But you really should plan out the trip before you hit the road. Here are a few things to consider.

First of all, do you have a vehicle big enough to pack up the kids, the dog, the gear, and the food? With a Ford Truck, that won’t be an issue.

Make a camping checklist of all the gear and equipment you need to bring. Everyone remembers the tent and sleeping bags, but what if the ground is wet? Throw in a waterproof tarp or vinyl sheeting and you will sleep warmly above any damp ground.

If you’re bringing a portable stove, don’t forget the extra propane. If you’re lighting a fire, make sure you pack lots of matches in a waterproof container.

Safety needs to be a well-thought out priority. Make sure you have a first aid kit that includes band aids, bandages for strains, antibacterial ointment, mosquito spray, tweezers for splinters, topical ointment for bug bites and aspirin

Okay, you remembered the hatchet for chopping some wood, but did you also throw in the hunting knife so you could whittle some branches for campfire roasting

And speaking of roasting, eating around an open fire is romantic and exciting, if you’ve got the right food. Pull up some campfire recipes before you go so you can plan food accordingly. And bring enough ice to keep perishables fresh.

What about activities? Kids may want to bring Ipods and Gameboys, but wouldn’t you rather teach them to fish, or hike, or row a boat. And you can’t settle in for the night without a round of campfire songs. It’s time to teach a new generation “Michael Row Your Boat Ashore”.

There are many detailed camping resources to get you planned and on your way. So throw Mom, junior and the princess into the Ford Truck, and be on your way to an outdoor adventure.