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It ain’t over ’till it’s over, and that’s certainly true of summer 2015. If you haven’t yet taken to the woods or beach in search of the perfect camping experience, there’s no time like the coming weekend. Before you head out, read up on a few ways to make the trip more memorable, more comfortable, and more fun! 

use paper lanterns for lighting

Add holes to paper bags and place an electronic tea light inside for romantic lighting. If you want to get fancier, try this origami lantern DIY .

add sage to a campfire

This easy hack keeps mosquitos away.

bring a cast iron cooker

Upgrade from hot dogs and marshmallows over the fire by bringing an iron press to make paninis, pies, quesadillas, waffles, and more. Or try a popcorn popper!

try crushable cups

Skip the plasticware to save space and the environment with reusable silicone cups.

remove a tick

Place a cotton ball soaked in liquid hand soap over the tick for about 20 seconds to remove it.

bake campfire cinnamon rolls

Hollow out oranges and place cinnamon roll dough inside for yummy orange-infused treats. Easy to cook over the campfire. Full recipe here .

make glow stick jars

Break open glow sticks in mason jars for unique, colorful lighting at night.

use corn chips as kindling

Any chip will catch fire easily, just don’t forget the matches.

bring lawn games

Try badminton, bocce ball, or horseshoes. Look for glow-in-the-dark sets to play at night.

upgrade your tarp

Ditch the tarp and spread your sleeping bag out on something comfier—try a yoga mat or foam tiles.