Camping is an excellent opportunity for people of all ages to escape the hectic routines of modern life and experience nature in a whole new way. It is also a great way for families to bond, spend time together and create lasting memories. But for first-time campers, preparing for a weekend or week of outdoor living can be daunting. Luckily, we have put together this comprehensive list of camping tips for beginners to help make your next outdoor adventure as easy and enjoyable as possible!
Table of Contents
1. Always Have a Plan B
Whether you are tenting in your backyard or preparing to sleep under the stars at your favorite campground, it is important to have a backup plan. Camping can be a lot of work, so having a good idea of what to do if the weather turns bad will keep you from getting frustrated and stressed out.
2. Be Prepared For Food Prep
Camping meals can be simple or elaborate, but regardless of what you choose to bring with you, it is essential to have a game plan. This is particularly true for first-time campers who may not be experienced in camping meal prep. Be sure to bring all the supplies you need to cook and eat at your campsite, including a stove, fuel, lighters or matches, pots to cook with, plates to eat out of, a cooler (which we will talk about in Tip #6), and something to eat with, such as sporks. Also remember to bring a small washtub or two, scrubber, biodegradable soap, a towel and a bag or container for dirty dishes.
3. Keep It Safe
Camping can be a fun and adventurous activity, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved with outdoor living. The most common camping-related hazards are wildlife encounters, fire safety and personal hygiene. Wildlife can be attracted to campsites by food, so it is important to store all cooking gear and supplies in a food storage locker and to dispose of all trash before leaving your site.
It is also important to keep an eye on children at all times when camping. There are numerous heartbreaking stories of children becoming injured or even lost while camping with family or friends. Be sure to have a stranger danger talk with your kids before your camping trip, and always supervise them closely around water and other hazardous areas.
4. Have a Game Plan
When you are camping, the possibilities for entertainment are endless. Depending on where you are camping, you can take advantage of local activities such as hiking, swimming, kayaking or stage a family-friendly game night around the campfire. If you are staying at a family-friendly campground, they may even offer amenities like pool or arcade games to make your camping experience more fun and relaxing.
For beginner campers, planning activities to do at your campsite will add a level of excitement and ease to the camping experience. It will also ensure that you have something to do in case the weather turns foul and you need a break from cooking and cleaning.