How to Prepare Best for the Ultimate Camping Trip
There are few things as calming and peaceful as getting out of the city and venturing into nature with friends, family or on your own. Nature gives people something that can’t be found anywhere else, you’d surely agree. However, while nature is beautiful, it’s also unforgiving, and if you’re planning on taking a weekend trip then you’d better be prepared for anything that could come your way. The vastness and untethered feeling that you get when you’re all alone in the wilderness also has a downside of trials and tribulations if you aren’t well equipped for the great outdoors. To ensure a successful and enjoyable experience, consider the following comprehensive guide, which covers everything from choosing the perfect location to packing and safety considerations. Let’s dive in.
Choose the Right Location
Before you even think about starting to pack, it’s best to research a few destinations that you have in mind and that hopefully feature all the amenities you and your loved ones will need. Be sure to select a camping location that suits your interests and skill level, because there’s no point in being in nature if you’re miserable. You have many options at your disposal, ranging from remote backcountry sites to developed campgrounds with amenities. If you like a certain level of comfort, then be sure to let everyone know and opt for something a bit more upscale, that’s what glamping is for. Also don’t forget to research the area’s terrain, weather and wildlife to prepare accordingly.
With camping areas being so far away from most urban areas, you are going to want to really research the weather as well as possible animals that have been spotted in said area. The weather can make or break your trip so if you see rain and storms forecast, perhaps you can choose another weekend because it’s not worth getting stuck somewhere. Wild animals are another consideration to be taken seriously. It doesn’t mean that you can’t go to a certain spot, you just have to be cautious and mindful.
Essential Gear and Packing
Now that you’ve decided on a location that suits your needs and preferences, let’s look at all the essentials you’ll be needing for your time in nature. Choose a tent that suits the number of people and weather conditions you’ll be expecting, also ensure that it’s durable and waterproof since you don’t want to be rained on and wake up freezing cold. Nothing is fun when your clothing is soaked. Don’t forget a ground tarp to protect the tent floor and keep you warm. Many people who don’t go camping often can’t imagine how cold it does get outside of the city, which is why you’re going to need a high-quality sleeping bag appropriate for the season and a sleeping pad for comfort and insulation. If you don’t want to take too many things along, like a pillow for example, then fill a sack with your camping clothes and enjoy your sleep.
Accessories are another important aspect of camping, and it’s not just sleepwear and torches we’re talking about. Car accessories to bring along all the things you need for your exciting trip. Many people love riding their bikes on a get-away, but the find the transportation very tedious. This is where bike racks come in and make your trip so much easier. These racks are designed to minimize assembly time and maximize your space. The racks these days are so easy to mount and certainly safe to hold your bicycles in place without damaging your car of falling off on dirt roads. Ensure that you have all the gear you need.
Next we have another must, namely cooking supplies. If you can, bring a portable stove or campfire cooking equipment, fuel and cooking utensils. Include a cooler with ice packs for perishable items and non-perishable food for snacks and meals. We tend to forget how much we actually need in day-to-day living because everything is in its place, so it becomes second nature. However, if you forget the most mundane things, like salt or butter for example, your camping trip can quickly go from exciting to annoying. Make a list of the necessities and be sure to stick to that list, double check it even. Please make sure that water is on that list.
Finally, take layered clothing to adapt to changing temperatures and pack enough socks and underwear for the trip. Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes suitable for the terrain. Bring a pair of comfortable shoes or slops for around the campsite. Don’t forget to carry a reliable headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, and consider a lantern for campsite illumination. You should never go camping without a well-stocked first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers and any personal medications. The goals is to be able to manage any injury and have sufficient gauze etc. to keep some safe until you can reach a hospital.
Plan Your Activities
A huge part of a trip is the fun of planning it all. If you are going alone, please be sure to let someone know what your plan is and how they can reach you if need be. And if you are going with your family then take the time to sit around and outline your itinerary with everyone. Decide on the activities you want to do, such as hiking, fishing, kayaking or star-gazing. A good tip is to plan your days to balance relaxation and adventure. There’s no need to go on 15km hikes if you don’t want to, especially because studies have shown that as little as 4000 steps a day already has incredible health benefits. So, take it easy and plan according to your feeling and what you’d like to do on your getaway.
Safety and Preparedness
The first-aid kit has been discussed, as has researching wildlife and temperatures. However, you can plan even better than that by coming up with an emergency plan and knowing the location of the nearest hospital or ranger station, and keep a list of emergency contacts on hand. Regarding wildlife, learn about the wildlife in your camping area, what they like and don’t like for example. Store food securely and follow guidelines to prevent attracting animals to your campsite. If allowed, use a fire ring or established fire pit. Follow all fire regulations and never leave a fire unattended. Be prepared to extinguish it completely before leaving. Lastly, ensure that you have a means of communication, such as a fully charged phone. In remote areas, consider a satellite communicator or emergency beacon. You must have the possibility of calling someone in the case of emergency.
Leave No Trace Principles
Please ensure that you respect nature and follow ‘Leave No Trace’ principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Pack up all trash, use established trails and avoid disturbing wildlife. Bring a trowel for digging a cat hole if there are no restroom facilities. Alternatively, use a portable toilet if required. The main aim is for nature to graciously host you, but not know you were there. Happy camping.
