I recently had the privilege of experiencing my first camping trip. No, not glamping but true camping! Outside with a tent, sleeping bag and nature: insects crawling, birds chirping and a mild breeze. Water Flowing and people in floaties. I enjoyed my experience with some hiccups and can provide some advice for black women like myself.

TIP ONE: Bring bug spray and spray yourself frequently. 

I carried two types of bug spray with me. Ben's bug spray protected my skin from ticks and the lemon bug spray protected my skin from mosquitoes and other insects. I sprayed myself about every 30 minutes just to ensure I didn't get bit. I sprayed my skin that was open including elbows, ankles, neck, I even rubbed the bug spray on my face so that my face was protected. I sprayed my clothes in case insects attached to my clothes.  By doing this, I maintained minimal mosquito bites and other bites. 

TIP TWO: Buy appropriate tent and sleeping bag.

I recommend buying a two person tent and sleeping bag for each person. Make sure your tent is 3-season tent that are equipped with mesh panels (keep air flowing but insects out) and provide privacy. Make sure stakes are included with your tent to securely place your tent in the dirt. Choose a sleeping bag that has a comfortable temperature rating. For example, I usually am hotter at night so I chose a sleeping bag with a lower temperature rating. Choose a sleeping bag that fits your comfort level. Lastly, buy a sleeping pad to put under your sleeping bag. The sleeping pad protects your back from the hard ground.

TIP THREE: Go with someone who is a pro in camping 

I would not suggest to try camping with friends or family that has no experience camping. Fortunately, I camped with a group of people, some being avid campers. The group helped us with the essentials such as food, tent rental, tent set-up and breakdown. The group also help me feel comfortable with camping. They also gave recommendations of where to set up the tent and how to accomplish the most comfortable experience. 

**FREEBIE TIP: Usually, avid campers have a tent you can borrow so no need to spend $200 on a tent if only going to use once.

Overall, camping is an experience. Enjoy yourself, float on water, drink a beer and reflect in nature. Create a bonfire, sing, tell stories and create lasting memories. Here's the video of my camping experience.

Urban camp weekend is a good place to start. Check out details here: Urban Camp Weekend.