For a shorter stay in one place (overnight stay, 2-3 days of rest), a bivouac is arranged, and for a longer stay, a camp or campsite. In both cases, the same hygienic principles apply, but when camping, more permanent and complex improvisations are used, which will not be discussed here
Although it may seem easy at first glance, choosing a suitable place for camping can be a big problem. The place to set up the tent must be
dry
draining
slightly sloping
protected from the wind
with trees or next to a forest
2-3km away from wetlands
It is desirable that there is water nearby (river, lake, spring, etc.). In mountainous areas, care must be taken to avoid rockfalls, avalanches and blizzards. Also, avoid rocky soil, places with dense vegetation, and places where there are field rodents.
How to recognize the soil? In summer, pale green grass grows on it.
The ground is dry and partially cracked on the surface, while its lower parts are solid. There are no traces of moss between the sod and the grass.
If there is moisture and water, the grass is lush and has a bright green color.
There is also a lot of moss between the sod and at the base of the trees. If you have to pitch a tent in such a place, it is a good idea to place a plastic sheet (nylon) under the tent as insulation, but still avoid places near rivers and streams.
Even the smallest stream during heavy rains grows into a torrent that can be very dangerous. Avoid land surrounded by hills and sandy soil.
The wind, which is pleasantly refreshing on hot days, can suddenly turn into a fierce enemy. When this happens, tents are in danger. Set up the tent so that its smallest surface is facing the direction from which the wind is blowing, and the entrance to the tent is of course on the opposite side.
You can easily identify the direction from which the wind usually blows by looking at the surroundings: look at the grass, the shape of the trees and which way they lean, the appearance of the sand and where it gathers.
It is best to pitch a tent at the edge of the forest (never in the forest). You should know that after rain in the forest, water continues to drip for hours, and strong winds often break tree branches.
And never under a lonely tree – because they are often the target of lightning.
