The Square Life

If you're an inexcusably urban girl who gets invited to go camping with Mr. Outdoors and his friends, don't panic. Just because you aren't naturally the outdoorsy type doesn't mean you can't enjoy a good ol' camping trip. This foolproof guide to camping will help you avoid looking like Vicky on The Parent Trap. And just in case you're wondering, hitting sticks together does not attract lions, tigers or bears.

First of all, learn about the area you are going to. Make sure your group has made a reservation and you know how to get there. Also, find out if there are bathrooms with showers or not. That will determine how much you'll really be roughin' it. Then, do some research to find out about some good hiking trails and any interesting history about the area or things to see while you're there.

Now, for the packing. It's all about the camping gear. Chances are, you know someone who has some you can borrow. The sleeping bag says it all — if you can get your hands on a good quality brand, you'll seem like a legit camper. And please, leave your pink ruffly pillowcase at home. Also, offer to provide one of the tents. That will show your enthusiasm about the trip. Just make sure you get a little tent set-up 101 before you head off so you'll have an idea of how to help set it up.

This may go without saying, but camping is not the time for impractical shoes, makeup or perfume. Bring good hiking boots or tennis shoes and leave all excessive primping supplies at home. Facial cleansing wipes are a great alternative to face wash while you're camping. And go easy on the makeup. A little mascara, concealer and lip balm should be all you need. If your guy is into the outdoors, your ability to leave the world behind and show your natural beauty will impress him. But don't forget your deodorant — that's going too natural.

Just because you're going camping doesn't mean you have to eat dried stew packets. If you really want to impress, offer to cook one of the dinners. There are plenty of simple and delicious meals you can make on a campfire (Try camprecipes.com).

Now when that campfire is out — so is the night sky. Getting away from the city you love oh-so much makes for some great stargazing. If you can point out some constellations other than the Big and Little Dipper, it won't seem like its your first time in the wild.

The main thing to keep in mind as you embark on your outdoor adventure is to have an open mind and be willing to get out of your comfort zone. Even though all of your city-girl senses will tell you otherwise, go ahead and let yourself get dirty. Your thin mat and sleeping bag aren't as comfortable as your pillow top mattress, but you can handle it for a few nights. And who knows — you might even come to love the great outdoors.

What to pack:
-Tent
-Sleeping bag, pillow and mat
-Water bottle
-Warm clothes for night, hiking clothes, good socks
-Flashlight/headlamp with extra batteries
-Food & hiking snacks (oatmeal, soup, granola bars, fruit snacks, s'mores)
-Eating & cooking utensils (A pie tin with plastic utensils works great as a makeshift mess kit.)
-Sunscreen & sunglasses
-Bug spray (but don't put it on every half hour or you'll look a little paranoid.)
-First-aid kit
-Towel/washcloth
-Toiletries (toilet paper, face wash, deodorant, un-fragranced lotion, toothbrush and toothpaste)
-Camera
-Light makeup and lip balm
-Scary campfire stories