Brands

There are a lot of different brands that you can find on the market. Those that have collections available in wide selections include West Marine, Columbia, Gill International, Helly Hansen, Jeantex, Mustang Survival and Henri Lloyd. The good thing about the products of these makers is that they are stylish, they look like regular rain jackets and you can wear them anytime.

Sources

If you are thinking about getting a new jacket you should look for it at sporting-goods stores, department stores and marine-supply stores. Since we live in the era of technology, naturally you can also find these goods in online stores.

Features

To ensure that you get a jacket of high quality, you should check for the  seams to be made with double stitches. This adds more strength. In the same time the entire jacket should be lined, including the sleeves. You should be able to zip the collar all the way up and you should be able to zip the pockets as well. It is important for the jacket to be breathable.  The majority of the top brands offer inside pockets that are zippered.

Considerations

When looking for a new jacket you should make sure that the one you get is roomy enough so that perspiration will be able to escape. It is also a good idea to have a complete set of waterproof gear. This should contain gloves, pants and a hat. The type of the ship that you will be sailing on could also influence the choice that you make. Some of the sailing ships have more inside area than other ships.

There are some jackets that were specially created to be used on ships that have more open area. Remember that the more protection your jacket offers you, the more you will enjoy your vacation.

As you can see there is a lot to consider when it comes to sailing jackets. Last but not least you should also think about the style of the jacket. If you look good, most probably you will also feel good.

Fraud

Although the majority of motels are really careful when it comes to processing the credit cards there are still chances of fraud. When information is introduced in the system, it goes through numerous hands, it is viewed by the staff of the motel and it could be stored in databases.

When making a reservation there is need for your name, card security number, credit card number, phone number and address. With this information anybody could use the same card for whatever they want.

Theft

When it comes to processing credit cards for motels technology makes it possible to store all information digitally. Nonetheless there are still some motels that use other formats as well. Electronic formats offer some degree of security, but physical storage makes the chances of stealing credit card information higher.

Fees

When paying for a room reservation it is possible that the issuer of the card or the motel itself will charge extra fees or commissions. In some cases the motel operators pass the fees on to the customers, making the price of the reservation even higher. Sometimes there is a ‘hold’ placed on the card to make sure that the transaction will take place. This could result in fees that the card user didn’t think about.

Extra charges

Making the room reservation with a credit card could add extra fees during your stay. Upon arrival the motes ask for a credit card to ensure the payment of extra charges that could take place during the stay. Such extra charges include the use of the telephone, purchases from the gift shop, room service, damages to the room or theft. In many cases the extra fees aren’t mentioned to the customers upon arrival and they find out about them only later.

All in all using a credit card to reserve a room may be more dangerous than it seems at first sight. When offering information about credit cards it is important to make sure that the credit card processor takes safety measures to protect the information of the card user.

The north coast of France and Belgium is often overlooked by tourists, but even if you’re just looking for somewhere to overnight before heading further south or you’re more into just hopping across the channel on day trips to France, try and find some time to do a little exploring nearer to the port as there’s all manner of interesting stuff to see.

Here are a few of the top spots – chances are you’ll never have heard of them!

Quirky Museums

Most of the historic monuments in this part of the world focus on the battlefields of World Wars 1 and 2. But there’s plenty here to keep culture creatures who aren’t military historians happy too.If you have kids in tow, see if you can find the Museum of Traditional Games (645, rue Gaston Dereudre, 59279 Loon-Plage, France) at Loon-Plage.

Here you’ll find an ancient farmhouse converted into a museum with displays describing the history of local games like Nicolas Billiards – a circular table with four sets of bellows attached to it. The aim of the game is to use the bellows to blow a small ball into your opponents’ goals. You can try your hand at most of the games as well – ideal for keeping smaller holidaymakers happy – particularly if it rains.

Stay: Camping Des Dunes (Rue Victor Hugo, Plage de Petit-Fort-Philippe, 59 820 Gravelines) is a friendly three star campsite a stone’s throw from the beach and the town.

Fishy goings on

Ever seen fishing on horseback? Local fishermen still trawl for shrimp on horseback at Oostduinkerke on the north Belgian coast – just as they have done for some 500 years. Dressed in bright yellow waterproofs, the fishermen sit on horseback, dragging nets behind them as they plod through the low-tide waters catching shrimp as they go.

These days it’s a dying trade kept alive more for the tourists than for business. Horses shy away from the lapping waves when they are first introduced to the idea, but eventually rider and horse develop a unique bond – one horse remains with the same fisherman throughout its working life.

The sea forms a vital part of the local economy here and you can find out more about the traditions of fishing on horseback and more at the Belgian National Fisheries Museum (PastoorSchmitzstraat 5, 8670 Oostduinkerke, Belgian). Kids will particularly enjoy the aquariums, teeming with fish and other sealife.

Stay: Camping Amazone (Westhinderstraat 2, 8670,Oostduinkerke) is a quite and peaceful spot with good facilities just moments away from the beach and the village.

Here for the beer?

These parts of France and Belgium are pretty famous for brewing uniquely interesting beers too. On the French side of the border there’s La Gravelinoise – a light, hoppy beer with hints of coriander. It’s produced in a microbrewery in the attractive small town of Gravelines.

You can buy bottles at the local tourist office in Gravelines (11 rue de la République) or from La Cave Gourmande (6 rue Léon Blum, 59820 Gravelines). And in another pretty little French village, Esquelbecq, EsquelbecqMicrobrewery (22 rue de Wormhout, 59470 Esquelbecq) makes a number of interesting brews.

Among them is one called La Rouge Flamande which is named after a breed of local cow.It has a sparkling, flowery aroma in the mouth with a slightly nutty aftertaste – seriously refreshing on a hot summer day! Brewery tours and tastings are available April to October. Or you can drop by the bar at the brewery to sample a few of the brews Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 12.30 pm and 2 pm to 7 pm.

Stay: Camping Des Dunes (see Quirky Museums above) is ideal for Gravelines. Camping Gite des Roses (2 Chemin du Heron, 59470 Esquelbecq) is a pleasant three star site, just moments from the village.

This has led to the development of posh, luxury, glamorous camping, otherwise known as ‘glamping’. This sort of defeats the object of camping – getting back to nature, going without your favourite luxuries and saving money – but it does provide another camping alternative for travellers who more commonly sleep on 100% Egyptian cotton sheets in a hotel bed.

But if you want to combine low costs with a certain level of luxury, then a static caravan is your best bet. Caravans have come a long way since the 1950s and 60s when they first became broadly popular. These days they have all kinds of mod cons including dishwashers, power showers and full ovens.

In this way, they provide the perfect compromise between a hotel and a tent. You can still enjoy that camping feeling, that’s low maintenance and low cost, but you can dry your clothes, sleep in a bed and even watch TV. Park Resorts now has a wide range of cheap caravans for sale so you can own your own little bolthole by the coast or amongst beautiful British countryside without having to remortgage your home.

But why would you want to pin yourself down to just one area? The beauty with the UK is its small size and well-connected road system. You can travel from the tip of Scotland to the farthest corner of Cornwall in under 15 hours and there’s plenty to see in between; so locating in one spot doesn’t mean you’ll be confined to that one area.

Park Resorts has cheap caravans for sale at all of its park sites from Devon to Kent and the Isle of Wight to Ayrshire. You can choose between used and new caravans depending on how much money you have to spend. It also offers VIP visits to all of its sites, so you can sample various types of caravans in numerous parks before you make a purchase.

Another benefit to owning your own caravan is that you can personalise it. It can feel like your home away from home, which takes away any negative factors associated with confining yourself to just one spot.

More information on caravanning and owning your own caravan can be found on the National Caravan Council’s website.

Since few years, technology has created equipments that are available and reachable to almost any part of the world. There are various means for even campers to stay in touch from any corner.

Here are few methods to keep in touch while camping:

1. Camp with your phone

These days no matter where you are, you want to stay connected via a phone call to different parts of the world. And if you are keen on making free calls, then don’t forget to carry a mobile phone at the camp and register with a suitable calling service. So while you relax around Mother Nature, you can make several international phone calls and talk to your loved ones for hours. Tell your family about your camping plan for the day and get to know their bits. On hearing their voice you will surely feel at home around another home, that’s nature.

2. Go online

Also, carry your laptop and make sure you have an internet facility to use the online services, where you can make free calls. You can chat with your folks between breaks and tell them about the fun you had. You could even write to them emails about what you have been doing in the day and reply to important business emails. Ask your family to write to you via emails or tell them to come online by deciding a particular time. While you camp, you can very well enjoy the sense of the rugged outdoors and ease of online technology.

3. Post stuff about the camp

Around social sites, there is so much to do. For instance, you can showcase your camp stories on a daily basis. Social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter, allow you to share posts, stories, comments, pictures, videos, etc. You can upload stuff, post on your walls and create a picture of your entire journey to convey to your loved ones. And everyone back home and your friends can know that you are enjoying your trip, all safe and sound.

4. Create a camp photo album

This is a more effective way to stay connected. Right from what breakfast you had today to adventurous moments to campfire fun, you can create an album. All these pictures can create a series of memories which could be shared with your loved ones. You can post these camp albums on sites like flickr.

Luckily in the UK, there is no threat of insect bite related diseases like the rest of the world, this article intends to provide you with information and advice for those travellers heading further afield for their holidays and adventures.

(photo credit: dipdewdog)

If you have chosen to spend time in Europe during 2012 there are a few points to consider when it comes to insect bites. Although not a major area of concern, basic vaccinations including Tetanus and Polio should have been given at a young age.

If you are camping or staying near lakes, rivers or the coast in Europe and are concerned about insect bites, our advice is to ensure you take bite cream, spray or tea tree oil. Applying these to the bite reduces itching and swelling.

Throughout Asia and the Middle East, insect related diseases such as Malaria are more common. Malaria is also prevalent across Africa, South America, India, Thailand, China, Indonesia, Papa New Guinea, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.  If you choose to travel to these far-flung destinations, you should always consider seeing your doctor at least 3 months before you depart. They can arrange for the correct vaccinations depending on your destination.

Apart from injections, your doctor may prescribe Malaria Tablets. Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease, which can be contracted through a mosquito bite in over 100 countries throughout the world. Taken properly, anti- Malaria tablets can prevent the disease. Failure to take the drug correctly can put you at risk.

Ways to prevent bites and stings on vacation:

• Avoid heavy perfumes and scents.
• Try to wear natural colours; bright colours attract insects.
• When eating out, try to dispose of any strong smelling rubbish; consider citronella candles.
• Cover your skin as much as possible with light clothing.
• Apply insect repellent, consider areas such as ankles, wrists and neck.
• Try to avoid swamps, areas of lying water and dense forests.
• Always check exposed skin when returning from a day out.
• In hotels and camps, use bed nets to prevent insects biting you at night.

If you have been bitten, seek medical help as soon as possible. Some vital signs of a bite are a raised red area, itching, pain and an allergic reaction. Symptoms of Malaria include a fever like illness with shaking and chills, muscle aches, headache and tiredness. You may suffer from nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Some strains of Malaria can cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, due to the lack of red blood cells. Some strains can cause kidney failure, confusion and could be fatal.

Symptoms of Malaria usually start 10 days to 4 weeks after the initial bite. Malaria can be treated with prescription drugs, so when returning from your vacation if you feel unwell or believe you have been bitten, see your doctor as soon as possible. Some people can fall ill up to a year after they have visited a country that has a Malaria threat. Like most other things, prevention is better than the cure in this case too.

Make sure you speak to your doctor if planning to visit a country outside of the UK and Europe. Also ensure you have all your vaccinations and take your Malaria tablets as prescribed.

Pitching up in Hyde Park, within a stone’s throw of the grandiose Buckingham Palace sounds like a pretty cool idea – but is it practical and, most importantly, is it legal?

The trespassing laws are not as strict in England as they are in the States, i.e. you won’t get immediately handcuffed for it, but it is still frowned upon. In a perfect world, we would be able to camp on any spot of land that we thought looked even remotely comfortable, but, unfortunately,it’s not that simple.

Most National Parks in England allow a certain amount of wild camping, but, even if it is forbidden in a certain area, it is unlikely that you will get more than the well-built farmer asking you to move along if he finds you (courteous ignorance goes a long way in these situations). In a city centre, though, the chances of being oustedwill shoot through your canvas roof. You’ll stick out like a tent pitched in the middle of a metropolitan wilderness.

However, I do seem to recall pictures of many a happy camper pitched beside Westminster Abbey in the not-so-distant past. There was a wedding going on, I think, or something along those lines. Forgive me for my ignorance if there was some kind of temporary law established for those couple of weeks, but if they were allowed to camp out on the street, then why can’t you camp out in the park?

A little longer ago – 2007, in fact – a group of Bulgarian and Romanian immigrants were camping their nights away in the hidden corners of Hyde Park while they looked for work. The Daily Mail quoted one of them as saying: “If you find a hidden area, then you can stay for days in your tent and you will not get caught.”

Well, there you have it; camp away, as long as you’re well hidden!I don’t know for how long they were actually there, but the park manager later insisted that the Royal Parks Police would not tolerate such encampments… perhaps it’s not such a good idea then.

You probably would be breaking some kind of law and you would get into some kind of trouble, but it’s an intriguing thought and an intriguing challenge at that. Camp in the city at your own risk, but, if you get caught, remember:you didn’t get the idea from me!

Image credit: Europe a la Carte

To make sure you’re able to make the most of your time in the great outdoors, be prepared. It may be a predictable cliché to roll out, but with good reason. You will have, no doubt, heard plenty of camping horror stories over the years and will be keen to avoid any of your own.

[ Image courtesy of towo^tm ]

There is no definite list of dos and don’t s before you embark on your break, although a little common sense will go a long way. Like purchasing travel insurance. The obvious perils of being out and about in the wilderness mean that it’s worthwhile to get cover as soon as possible, especially if you have children. To get more information on the best travel insurance money supermarket have all the latest news and offers.

With that sorted, you can focus your attentions to putting together the real nuts and bolts of your camping trip. Getting the basics right will be crucial if you are to enjoy getting back to nature.Travel light, but be certain to pack the essentials.

Make sure your tent is fit for purpose and perhaps consider doing a trial run to ensure you know how to put it up quickly and efficiently and that all the relevant pegs, poles and paraphernalia are present and correct. Think carefully about what bedding to take, because if the temperature does plummet overnight, you don’t want to be caught cold. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

You should also give plenty of thought to what clothes you’ll need and be ready for whatever Mother Nature can throw at you. Come rain or shine, you’ll want to be as comfortable as possible,so checking the weather forecast and making sure you’ve got plenty of sunscreen and bug spray is advisable. You will need to be aware of what kind of terrain you will setting up camp on and plan accordingly. A first-aid kit is also a must, as is a reliable torch, some matches and a lighter.

Food will form a key part of your holiday, so organize what you’re going to eat and when, not to mention how you will prepare and store it. Pack extra gas cylinders for your camping stove just in case and ensure you have the right cooking utensils.

Keeping yourself and your camp clean and tidy during your stay is important, so stock up on toiletries – don’t forget your tooth brush! – and start thinking about what kind of activities you’ll be doing. If there are children in the traveling party, keeping them active and occupied could be easier said than done without their usual creature comforts.

Finally, don’t forget a compass and maps if you’re venturing a little further afield.

1. Search the Stars: Camping is an excellent time to learn about astronomy and constellations. Even if you don’t have a telescope many of the wonders of the universe are visible to the naked eye.

2. Play Some Cards: A deck of cards fits in your pocket and lets you play a ton of different games. Brush up on poker and blackjack online before your trip and you’ll clean up versus your opponents.

3. Take a Hike: They don’t call it the great outdoors for nothing, so be sure to take the time to explore all the country around you.

4. Catch a Fish: Even if you don’t get a single bite the chance to relax by a rushing stream or river is well worth the time and effort.

5. Bring Your Bike: Camping trips provide a great base to explore on your bike, letting you access territory that’d otherwise be out of reach.

6. Toss the Pigskin: Throwing a football around is a great way to relax, but the same idea applies to frisbees and soccer balls as it’s easy to throw them in the trunk.

7. Take a Dip: Whether you swim in a pool, lake, or ocean (or relax in a hot tub) it’s always a good idea to pack your swimming trunks when camping.

8. Pack Your Apps: More and more campgrounds offer WiFi access so bring along your iPhone or iPad, as you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite games such as online roulette, Angry Birds, or Bejewled.

9. Pack a Hammock: Hammocks are very lightweight and take up virtually no space, giving you a great way to kick back and relax.

10.  Snap Some Pics: Photography is a great way to help you slow down and soak up all the beauty when on your next camping trip.

One of my personal favourites is the Lake District, in particular the area around Windermere which oozes beauty. With its rolling hills, enchanting green and brown colours and focal lake it will be a demanding camper or backpacker who isn’t impressed.

Bowness makes a fantastic base with a huge variety of B&Bs and other charming accommodation to choose from. For campers though there are no reasons to feel left out. Campgrounds are aplenty and it’s easy to find a great spot that is hidden away from the crowds. Visit the land of Beatrix Potter, sail around the Lake or wander across the tumbling hills and soak up the brisk British air that inspired countless authors.

If the country walks take it out of you and you’re ready for a break then head out to Kendal and grab some of its famous mint cake. If you continue to buzz with energy long into your stay then maybe you should tackle the Old Man of Coniston – one of the most challenging hill walks around.

The Lake District is famous for a reason – it is a fantastic destination which continues to please every camper and backpacker that crosses its path.

Guest Post by Tom Mcloughlin: Tom Mcloughlin writes Backpacking Travel Destinations – a guide to the best places to go travelling around the world. Check it out!