Camping is an outdoor activity that countless people enjoy. When a person heads out on a camping trip, they want to have fun in the great outdoors. It’s an excellent way to get away from the stresses of everyday life for a short period. They can choose to engage in other activities while camping or just relax and spend time with family and friends.
There’s no right way to camp today. However, there are some basic things a person should know before heading out on a trip. The following guide provides an overview of these basics.
Essential Information
No two camping trips are alike. Even when a person visits the same location multiple times, the climate won’t be the same, nor will the environment. For this reason, a person must come fully prepared with anything they might need during the trip.
This includes proper clothing for all types of weather, as one can never know what Mother Nature will do. Camping also requires some type of shelter. Although a person might choose to sleep out under the stars, they need a backup plan if doing so isn’t possible for some reason. For example, a Coleman tent will be greatly appreciated if the skies decide to open up and pour buckets of rain on those who are camping.
Always carry extra food and water. Nobody wants to get out into the wilderness to find they are lacking these necessities. Finally, choose clothing that is functional rather than fashionable. Other people don’t care what you wear when you are camping, so save the Instagram-worthy outfits for other occasions.
Preparing for the Trip
Several steps should be taken when preparing for a camping trip. A person might want to take off and the last minute and go camping. If they have camped several times before, they may be able to get everything ready in no time. Those who are new to this activity, however, will need more time to get things ready. Failing to prepare can place campers in an unsafe situation, which is not what anyone wants. If something goes wrong, the entire trip may be ruined.
Make Reservations Before Heading Out
While it would be nice to take off and land anywhere, it’s best to have reservations before you head out the door. New campers should look for populated campsites, such as KOA, where there are other campers around who can provide help if needed. Campsites like these have amenities, such as clean bathrooms and laundry facilities.
When choosing a location, figure out why you want to camp. Some people choose to camp because they want to explore a new place. Other people camp to take a break from everyday life and just enjoy time with family and friends. Knowing the goal of the trip will help narrow the location options.
The season plays a role in where you might want to camp. Consider how warm or how cold it will be, what precipitation you might encounter, and other factors. However, don’t overlook a spot simply because you think it might be too warm or too cold. It might be worth the trip if the views are breathtaking, such as when the leaves are falling.
Campsite accessibility is another consideration. Parents with young children will need a campsite they can easily get to. If all participants are older, a more challenging trip may be planned.
Campsite amenities play a role in where you should make reservations. Certain campsites have modern conveniences while others will leave you feeling as if you are stranded in the middle of nowhere with nothing to rely on but your wits. Every camper must determine what they are comfortable with and ensure the desired amenities are available before making a reservation.
Fire rings and grills are one amenity many people wish to have access to. However, simply because the campground has fire rings and grills doesn’t mean they can be used. Check with the campground to see if there are current restrictions on fires for safety reasons.
Access to clean drinking water is essential for every camper. Some campsites offer clean drinking water while others only provide access to water sources. Having this information ensures a camper can bring a water filtration device if needed. Nevertheless, many experienced campers choose to carry a filtration device with them on every trip. If something goes wrong during the trip, they know they will have access to water that is safe for human consumption.
Showers and Toilets
Some people like to rough it and use the bathroom in the woods while bathing in any available water source. Other men and women, however, prefer to stay at campgrounds that offer toilets and showers. This is a matter of personal preference. Someone who is new to camping might want to stick to campgrounds with these amenities initially. They tend to attract more people, so help will be available if needed. Once a person becomes more experienced, they can try camping in the wild.
Pet-Friendly Campgrounds
Families might choose to bring their furry friends along for the fun. When making a reservation at a campground, ensure they are allowed. Many people assume they are simply because most activities take place outdoors, but that is not always the case. Make sure this question is asked prior to a reservation being made, so there are no misunderstandings.
Cell Service
Cell phone coverage is another thing a person might wish to ask about. Certain people don’t want coverage because they would like a break from technology. Other people would not camp if they couldn’t bring their cell phone and use it. This information is beneficial to have.
Meal Planning
Don’t plan elaborate meals when camping. Keep it simple. Wait until you get close to the campground to pick up groceries. With the meal plan in hand, buy any ingredients that you didn’t have at home. While at the store, pick up snacks as well. Ones that can be carried as you explore are preferred.
When planning these meals, ensure they contain proteins, starches, and carbs. You will need these items to keep you going, as camping is more strenuous than many people realize. Potatoes, eggs, and produce are always good to have on hand. Make sure you have plenty of drinking water and grab some sodas and juice for when you want something different.
Dietary restrictions don’t disappear when a person goes camping. Ask everyone who will be attending the trip if they have dietary restrictions or follow a specific meal plan. For example, some people are vegetarians while others cannot eat products with gluten in them. Use this information to plan meals that all can enjoy.
Bring plastic containers to hold food. Choose fixings and ingredients that can be used with multiple meals. Doing so will reduce the amount of space needed to carry the food and provide you with a way to keep leftovers for when people get hungry.
Camping Gear
Having the right gear is essential for a successful trip. Certain things are necessary on every trip. If possible, purchase these items and store them separately. When you want to take off on a last-minute trip in the future, they will be ready to go.
This camping kit needs to include a sleeping bag for every person who is going on the trip. Some people want an inflatable bed while others can’t sleep without a quilt. Pack these items as well, but at a minimum, a sleeping bag is required.
When purchasing these sleeping bags, ensure they are designed for the climate. Some bags are designed for summer weather, while others can be used when the temperature dips below freezing. If camping is an activity, you find enjoyable, invest in one of each for each person who camps.
Other items every camper should have with them include lights, such as lanterns or headlamps, firewood, matches, and a fire starter. Always bring spare batteries for any items that require them, and consider investing in a portable power bank.
Carry cleaning supplies to keep the campsite tidy. Doing so will help keep wild critters at bay. Safety equipment should also be readily accessible. This includes bug spray, a first aid kit, and a portable fire extinguisher. Don’t forget the sunscreen either.
The last thing you may wish to consider bringing is a wagon to carry all of this gear. Don’t tire yourself out on the way to the campsite. Some wagons today are designed for rough terrain, making them ideal for camping trips.
With the right preparation, every camping trip can be enjoyable. Start small and build your skills over time. Before you know it, you will be having new adventures in places many people wouldn’t dream of traveling. Of course, you always have the option of staying at a well-populated campground where you can make new friends with similar interests. It’s all a matter of what is important to you. When you come well prepared, you can focus on that rather than the basics of camping.
