Camping is one of the most exciting ways to escape your daily life and spend time in nature. While it can seem a little overwhelming for beginners, there are some tips and tricks to make your camping experience go smoothly! From how to choose the right gear to planning activities and setting up a comfortable campsite, these tips will help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Water – It is recommended that you carry at least 1 gallon of water per person on your trip. This is especially important when you are traveling to areas where there isn’t clean drinking water nearby.
Food – It is also essential to have plenty of food on hand, especially if you are delayed or get stranded for any reason. High-calorie snacks like nuts, dried fruits, and bars are great options.
Personal Items – Bring everything you would need to keep your family and yourself comfortable and healthy while camping. Whether you need a change of clothes, extra blankets, or a toothbrush and toothpaste, pack it all!
Sleeping – A good night’s rest is essential when you are camping. So be sure to include a set of earplugs in your bag. Most campsites have rules around noise levels after a certain time, so it is wise to pack earplugs in case you are woken up by neighbors or other campers.
Toiletries – You may be tempted to go to the bathroom in the wild, but you are better off going to a campground that offers showers. It’s best to check ahead and make sure they have shower facilities available before you head out on your trip.
Lighting – A flashlight or headlamp is necessary to light your way when you are camping. If you’re planning to cook inside your tent, a lantern can also be helpful.
Bringing a towel – a small, lightweight, quick-drying towel is an essential camping item. They are easy to carry in your backpack and come in handy when you are cleaning up a drink spill, or if you need to wipe down your tent.
A first aid kit is a must when you are camping, as they contain essential supplies in a convenient compact case. You can find them at a local store or online.
Avoid single-use plastics – reusable bottles are a must! Stainless steel bottles are best as they can hold hot or cold water, and they are easy to refill on the spot.
Tip – Do not use disposable contact cases or wipes on your skin while camping! These can attract bugs and other creatures, so be sure to rinse them off before you put them in your pack.
Pitching a Tent – When pitching your tent, be sure to pitch it on level ground, free of rocks or other debris that can damage your gear and cause discomfort. It’s also a good idea to practice pitching it before your trip.
Eating – Depending on the setup of your camp kitchen, cooking on a campsite can be a lot easier than it is at home. But it is still a good idea to bring some easy-to-grab snacks with you to tide you over if you are hungry or haven’t had anything to eat for a while.